America the Beautiful is right—the natural land across the country is unmatched and provides a variety of options that could satisfy any adventurer. Take a look at this list and decide whether your next vacation will be at the beach, on the lake, in the mountains or even all three!
Little Beaver Lake Campground, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
Picturedrocks.com
Michigan’s lakeshore is a place of well-kept beauty. Among many other campsites along the shore, Little Beaver Lake Campground is situated on the National Lakeshore and contains many trails that can take you right up to the cliffs and shoreline over Lake Superior. This campsite is first come, first served and is best enjoyed anytime in the summer.
Adirondack Lakes Region Island Camping, NY
Buzzfeed
New York is usually associated with the big city, but don’t be fooled—upstate NY is a hidden treasure filled with great camping and wildlife. The epic lakes throughout the Adirondack Region are scattered with islands that can be reserved for camping. Kayaks are available to rent, and each day can be spent gliding across the stunning lakes or hiking around the mainland in the Adirondack Mountains.
Jumbo Rocks Campground, Joshua Tree National Park, CA
Hipcamp
Joshua Tree has gained a rep as one of the best national parks, period. Jumbo Rock campground is located on the western side of the park, which means the most famous rocks within the park are just a short hike away. This site is driving accessible, equipped with picnic tables and bathrooms. And don’t forget your bike and your rock climbing gear, because that’s what this campground is known for.
Chisos Basin Campground, Big Bend National Park, TX
West Texas Weekly
The 5,400 Chisos Basin is more than just a majestic rock formation, it is a huge campground fit for kayaking and canoeing. The ground has 67 campsites and is open year-round with every amenity that you could need when camping. If you’re searching for outdoor adventure, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Big Bend.
Sandspur Campground, Bahia Honda State Park, FL
Florida State Parks
If you’re a beach person, Sandspur Campground is for you. With unlimited swimming, kayaking and fishing, it is the perfect campsite for anyone who prefers the water. Sandspur has great biking and hiking trails along the shore. Plus, Florida’s climate makes this campsite accessible and comfortable all year long. Sandspur’s tent-only and RV campsites offer diverse experiences for anyone who wants to adventure.
Bartlett Cove Campground, Glacier Bay National Park, AK
National Park Service
Bartlett Cove is a foot only campground, making your camping experience extra serene and quiet. The campground is close to the bay—a short 1/4 mile hike will take you straight to the water. Plan your trip accordingly, though—you don’t want to be caught in an Alaskan winter while on foot.
White River Campground, Mt. Rainier National Park, WA
Visit Rainier
Camping in the Pacific Northwest is unmatched. In Mt. Rainier National Park, you will find many campsites, but White River Campground provides sites that are tucked in the midst of gargantuan trees that the PNW is known for, while the river courses just alongside. This proximity creates the ideal destination for kayaking, fishing and hiking. Plan ahead to enjoy the waterfalls—you might want to see those from land instead of from the water.
Blackwoods Campground, Acadia National Park, ME
Acadia Magic
Blackwoods Campground is located on Mount Desert Island in Maine’s Acadia National Park. Set up camp just a short walk away from the cliffs or sandy beaches—your pick! Mount Desert island provides a unique island camping adventure, and a large forest backdrop offsets the ocean view nicely. Camping is a year-round activity in Acadia National Park, so if you’re brave, take a stab at off season island camping.
Many Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park, MT
Buzzfeed
Located in Glacier National Park, Many Glacier Campground speaks for itself. The scenic grounds are nestled among mountains and glaciers, providing opportunity for a host of activities. Site reservation is available as well as first-come, first-served spaces—but get there early, because those fill up fast! The ideal season for camping in Glacier National Park is June through September, so start planning today.
Eno River Campground, Eno River State Park, NC
OnlyinOurState.com
If you’re looking for a serene camping trip filled with relaxing waterfalls and hikes through the woods, Eno River is the place for you. Canoe or kayak along the river or fish from the shore—this river is majestic and it provides lots of privacy on each campsite. Plus, North Carolina weather makes this spot enjoyable all year long!
Watchman Campground, Zion National Park, UT
Outdoor Project
Zion National Park is one of the most famous camping areas in the country—for good reason. Watchman Campground is great for RV campers as well as tent lovers. But if you’re not a fan of “roughing it,” the amenities feel like anything but camping. So no matter what your style is, get out there and explore this natural treasure.
Mazama Campground, Crater Lake National Park, OR
Camping with the Rogers
Crater Lake is the most famous part of Oregon’s natural landscape, so who wouldn’t want to camp there? The view alone is reason enough to venture out there, but the refreshing lake and epic hiking are a great bonus! Mazama Campground is open June through October, giving you a five-month window to enjoy the nature of Oregon!
North Rim Campground, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
National Park Service-Flickr
The Grand Canyon is on everyone’s bucket list, so why not go visit now? The North Rim has the best views of the entire canyon, and, with moderate weather, there’s no doubt you will have a beautiful trip. Enjoy horseback riding, hiking, whitewater rafting and swimming in the most photogenic part of the country.
Loon Lake Campground, Eldorado National Forest, CA
Sierra Nevada Unlimited
Located in the Northern California just west of Lake Tahoe, Loon Lake Campground has everything an explorer needs. This lake is perfect for swimming, fishing and kayaking, and the campsite even provides a boat launch. You can also head over to enjoy winter sports when the time comes.
Kalalau Campground, Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, HI
Hawaii Magazine
Indulge in hiking and camping on pristine beaches, all while surrounded by the volcanos of Kauai. What could be better? Be sure to spend some time at this site on your next Hawaiian vacation.
