13 Best Camping Destinations in the United States

Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and explore new places. Whether you prefer sleeping in a tent, an RV, or a cabin, there are plenty of options across the United States. Some of the best camping in the United States are located in national parks, where you can immerse yourself in nature and discover the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the country. Others are situated near popular attractions, where you can enjoy the best of both worlds: adventure and culture. In this blog, we will be walking you through the best camping destinations in the United States.

Outspan can be the best option to break from your daily busy schedule and experience the peace in nature. From stunning coastlines and majestic mountains to serene lakes and desert landscapes, you can find a campsite in the United States that suits your taste and budget. There are also some of the best hikes in the United States, nearby to these campsites. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a thrilling escapade, these sites will not disappoint you. Now, let’s take a look at 13 best camping sites in the US that offer scenic views, exciting activities, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks for camping in the United States. It spans across more than 1,200 square miles of land. It has many famous and iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. It is an ideal place that showcases amazing natural beauty, varied wildlife, and lots of outdoor activities.

You can enjoy the park’s wonders in one of the 13 campgrounds. Each campground has its own experience and views. The campgrounds have spaces for tent camping in the US, RVs, and trailers. Nomatter where you choose to camp, you will be amazed by the scenery of the surroundings. Some other things you can do in Yosemite National Park include hiking trails, biking paths, fishing spots, and more.

Highlights of camping in Yosemite National Park:

• Enjoying the views of the valley from Glacier Point.
• Witnessing the beauty of Yosemite Falls.
• Hiking to the top of Half Dome, one of the most famous rock formations in the world.
• Relaxing and unwinding in one of the many meadows, lakes, or rivers.

State	California
Best months for camping	May – September

2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

Yellowstone is the first national park in the United States, and one of the largest and most popular. It spans an area of over 3,468.4 square miles. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bison. 

For camping in Yellowstone you can choose from 12 campgrounds. You will be surrounded by amazing scenery and natural beauty regardless of where you choose to camp. Yellowstone offers a unique and diverse landscape, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Some other features include geothermal features, mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers. 

Highlights of camping in Yellowstone National Park:

• Marveling at steaming geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and mud pots.
• Encountering the diverse and majestic wildlife that roam the park, such as bison, elk, wolves, bears, and more.
• Learning about the history and culture of the park.
• Experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

State	Wyoming
Best months for camping	June – August

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee /North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning outdoor destination located on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. It is the most visited national park in the USA. It covers an area of over 816.28 square miles. It features some of the oldest mountains in the world, as well as waterfalls, streams, and forests.

Great Smoky Mountains offers a variety of camping experiences, ranging from backcountry camping to full-service campgrounds. There are currently 10 campgrounds that you can choose for camping. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities. It is also a popular destination for wildlife viewing. 

Highlights of camping in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

•  Discovering the diversity and beauty of the park’s plants and animals.
• Enjoying the views and sounds of the park’s waterfalls, such as Laurel Falls.
• Hiking to the highest point in the park, Clingmans Dome, which offers panoramic views of the mountains.
• Experiencing scenic drives with stunning views of the park’s landscapes and wildlife.

State	Tennessee / North Carolina
Best months for camping	June – August

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is one of the oldest and most visited national parks in the United States. It covers an area of over 229 square miles and features some of the most spectacular rock formations, canyons, and cliffs in the country. The park’s diversity of flora and fauna attracts camping enthusiasts from all around the world.

For camping in Zion, you can choose from 3 campgrounds. In addition to the campgrounds, there are also a number of backcountry camping areas in the park. Camping in Zion is a great way to experience the beauty of the park and to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, coyotes, and a variety of birds as well as a number of hiking trails.

Highlights of camping in Zion National Park:

• Admiring the beauty of the park’s landmarks, such as The Narrows, Angels Landing, The Watchman, and The Subway.
• Hiking through the various trials while enjoying the natural beauty of the park,
• Enjoying the variety of the park’s wildlife and vegetation.
• Experiencing the thrill and challenge biking, climbing, or canyoneering.

State	Utah
Best months for camping	May – September

5. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, fishing, boating and other outdoor activities in the United States. The park is spread across 76.7 square miles. Acadia is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, boating, and swimming.

There are four campgrounds on Acadia, each with their own unique settings and amenities. Beside the natural attractions, the park is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Abbe Museum, the Jesup Memorial Library, and the Jordan Pond House. Acadia is a beautiful and diverse park with something to offer everyone. 

Highlights of camping in Acadia National Park:

• Hiking to the top of Cadillac Mountain.
• Driving through the scenic road that offers stunning views of the park’s mountains, forests and coastlines.
• Campfire and spending quality time at the park.
• Exploring, hiking and cycling through the park’s diverse terrain.

State	Maine
Best months for camping	June – August

6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon is one of the most famous and visited national parks and camping destinations in the United States. It covers an area of over 1,901.972 square miles and features one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world, the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.It is a beautiful and awe-inspiring place with unforgettable scenery, and diverse wildlife. It is a place where visitors can experience the power of nature and learn about the history and culture of the region.

For camping at the Grand Canyon, you can choose from 11 campgrounds. The park is separated into South and North Rims. The south Rim is easily accessible, but is very busy and often filled to capacity. Whereas, for backpacking and wilderness camping North Rim can be a perfect destination.

Highlights of camping in Grand Canyon National Park:

• Admiring the beauty and grandeur of the park’s attractions such as, the Grand Canyon
• Exploring the park’s different regions and ecosystems
• Encountering with the park’s wildlife and vegetation
• Learning about the historic sites that showcase the life of the early explorers and Native Americans.

State	Arizona
Best months for camping	May – September

Interestingly over 42 million Americans go camping each year, making it one of the popular outdoor activities in the USA.

7. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park located in northwestern Montana, USA, adjoining the Canadian border. It encompasses an area of 1,583 square miles. In 1976, it became a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve, and 19 years later, it also received the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site as an international peace park. 

There are a total of 13 front country campgrounds in the park. The best time to camp in Glacier National Park is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the days are long. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique beauty. It  is home to a variety of wildlife. Hence, when camping you should be aware and take necessary precautions to avoid attracting wild animals to your campsite.

Highlights of camping in Glacier National Park:

• Hiking to the top of Logan Pass.
• Enjoying the breathtaking views of glaciers and valleys.
• Exploring the mountains and lakes, such as Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, and St. Mary Lake.
• Seeing and learning about the diverse wildlife and vegetation of the park.
• Experiencing the beauty and adventure of the park

State	Montana
Best months for camping	June – August

8. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is located in the state of Washington, United States on the Olympic Peninsula. It has four regions: the Pacific coastline, alpine areas, the west-side temperate rainforest, and the forests of the drier east side. It is the third oldest national park of the USA and home to a variety of wildlife including black bears, mountain goats, and many more.

There are over 16 campgrounds spread across in all four regions of the Olympic NP, USA. Some of the campgrounds are open year-round while others are seasonal. Campers who want more solitude and adventure can also opt for backcountry camping in the park. There are over 600 miles of trails and dozens of wilderness campsites to choose from.  Whether it’s for a night or a week, campers can find a campground or a campsite that suits their preferences and abilities.

Highlights of camping in Olympic National Park:

• Hiking along the Hoh Rain Forest.
• Scenic views from the Hurricane Ridge.
• Boating, swimming, fishing and kayaking at Lake Crescent.
• Exploring the tide pools at Rialto Beach.
• Relaxing at the Sol Duc Hot Springs.

State	Washington
Best months for camping	June – September

9. Adirondack Mountains, New York

The Adirondack Mountains are a natural wonderland in northeastern New York, United States that offer a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. One of the most popular ways to enjoy the Adirondacks mountains in the United States Is camping, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of nature. 

Camping in the Adirondacks is an outdoor experience unlike any other. You can explore the richness and diversity of the park, and find a campground that matches your style and budget.. Whether you prefer a tent, an RV, or a glamping experience, you can find a campground that suits your needs and preferences in the Adirondacks.

Highlights of camping in Adirondack Mountains:

• Boating or fishing at the scenic Mirror Lake.
• Hiking to the Bald Mountain with stunning views of lakes and peaks.
• Visiting the wild center that features live animals and exhibits.
• Exploring museums and learning about the history, culture and nature.

State	New York
Best months for camping	June – October

10. Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park is a vast wilderness area in Alaska, United States. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, and many more. The park is a popular destination for camping, as well as mountaineers who want to climb Denali, which stands at 20,310 feet above sea level. Denali is one of the most challenging and rewarding peaks in the world, requiring skill, endurance and luck to reach the summit.

The park offers six campgrounds for visitors who want to stay overnight in the park, each with its own features and amenities. The campgrounds provide access to some of the most scenic and wildlife-rich areas of the park. You can also choose Denali state parks for camping which is adjacent to the east of the Nation Park. It is the perfect destination for those who want to experience the beauty and diversity of nature and some challenges on the mountains. Ontspanning at Denali is an adventure that rewards campers with unforgettable memories of nature’s beauty.

Highlights of camping in Denali National Park:

• Climbing to the top of Denali, which is the highest mountain in North America.
• Scenic drive while enjoying the views of Alaska range, taiga forest, various rivers and lakes.
• Observing the diverse wildlife of Alaska.
• Hiking in the various trials that offer a variety of experiences and views.

State	Alaska
Best months for camping	June – August

11. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is a stunning natural wonder in Colorado, United States. It features a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife. The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears, cougars. Furthermore, Rocky Mountain has several miles of hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains.

Camping in the Rocky Mountain is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity of this national treasure. Whether you prefer to camp in a tent, an RV, or a backcountry site, you will find a campground that suits your needs and preferences. While camping, you will be surrounded by spectacular scenery, diverse wildlife. In addition to that there are endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, stargazing, and more. Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park is an unforgettable experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Highlights of camping in Rocky Mountain National Park:

• Exploring the beautiful Bear Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
• Hiking to the Long Peak.
• Observing different wildlife species at Moraine Park.
• Driving across the historic route of Trail Ridge with spectacular mountain views.

State	Colorado
Best months for camping	June – September

Note: Many campsites in the United States require reservations in advance, especially during peak camping seasons. So, make sure to reserve in advance to ensure the spot.

12. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Crater Lake National Park is a stunning natural wonder in southern Oregon, United States. The park offers many scenic and recreational opportunities for visitors. Crater Lake National Park is a place of beauty, history, and science. It preserves a unique geological and ecological heritage that reveals the power and diversity of nature.

There are several campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-resistant food lockers. Camping in Crater Lake is a great way to experience the beauty and wonder of this unique natural attraction. It is a memorable experience that allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty and history of this volcanic wonderland.

Highlights of camping in Crater Lake National Park:

• Exploring the deepest and most pristine Crater Lake.
• Scenic drive at Rin Drive with spectacular views.
• Hiking to Garfield Park.
• Camping in nature with well equipped and facilitated campgrounds.

State	Oregon
Best months for camping	July – September

13. Gulf State Park, Alabama

Gulf State Park is a beautiful camping destination in Alabama that offers a variety of activities and accommodations for visitors. You can also explore the park’s nine different ecosystems on 28 miles of trails, where you can see wildlife, plants and natural features. The park has a nature center, a butterfly garden, a fishing and education pier, and a learning campus for educational programs.

You can camp at the spacious campground, which has modern amenities and access to the beach and the lake. Another option is to stay at the Eagle Cottages, which are part of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World and offer a luxurious experience with views of the lake and the wildlife refuge. Gulf State Park is a place where you can enjoy nature, recreation and relaxation in one of the most scenic locations in Alabama, USA.

Highlights of camping in Gulf State Park:

• Swimming, kayaking or surfing and enjoying at the  beach.
• Hiking or biking at the park.
• wildlife like alligators, deer, foxes and birds, as well as plants like longleaf pines, palmettos and wildflowers.
• Visiting the nature center and learning about the park’s habitats and history.

State	Alabama
Best months for camping	March – May, September – November

Camping is not just a leisurely activity; it’s an enriching experience that offers numerous benefits. It is also a way to enjoy the many benefits that nature has to offer. Campgrounds in the US provide you with the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of nature in the wilderness. Before you head out, make sure you know what to pack for a successful hiking trip and pack all the camping gear and equipment, such as a tent, a sleeping bag, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and enough food and water.

Camping is an amazing opportunity to connect with nature and yourself, and to create unforgettable memories. Moreover, family camping trips can help you strengthen your relationships with your family members and friends as you spend quality time together without distractions. It can also help you reduce stress, improve your mood, boost your self-esteem, enhance your cognitive skills, and reset your sleep cycle. No matter where you choose to camp, you will have a memorable and rewarding experience.

If you are seeking an offbeat adventure outside of the United States, consider the captivating camping treks in Nepal.  This small yet stunning country provides a truly unique opportunity to embark on camping treks, where you hike into remote and wilderness areas off the beaten trail instead of simply driving to the campsite. Depending on your chosen camping spot, you will have the privilege of witnessing the magnificent and awe-inspiring Himalayan Ranges up close. It’s an incredible chance for both you and your children to immerse yourselves in the diverse cultures and lifestyles of people living in these remote areas. Don’t let your comfort zone hold you back from embracing new experiences. Pack your bags and embark on this thrilling adventure that awaits you! Contact us at