17 Surprising Camping Destinations In The USA You Need To Visit

The USA is home to some of the most beautiful places on earth. From the beaches of California to the mountains of Colorado, there are endless opportunities for adventure. 

However, did you know that there are also many amazing destinations right here in our own country? 

Below we will discuss some of the best-kept secrets: 17 camping destinations in America that are perfect for your next trip.

Top 10 Best Camping Places in USA 2023
Key Takeaways
Camping is a popular way to experience the great outdoors in the United States.
Whether you prefer roughing it in a tent or glamping in a luxury yurt, there are plenty of camping options available.
Some of the most scenic and picturesque camping destinations in the world can be found in the United States.
It’s important to plan and prepare for a camping trip, including researching the destination, packing appropriate gear and clothing, and being aware of safety procedures and potential hazards.
With the right preparation and mindset, a camping trip in the United States can be the adventure of a lifetime.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a United States National Park located in the state of Arizona. The park is the 15th oldest national park in the United States. 

It was established on February 26, 1919 as a Forest Reserve and later designated as a National Park on February 12, 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson.

Grand Canyon National Park has been listed as an International Biosphere Reserve since 1976, World Heritage Site since 1979, and UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 due to its outstanding natural beauty and importance as an ecosystem for scientific research

If you’re a fan of glamping, you’ll definitely want to check out our list of 15 Glamping Destinations You Need to Visit Before You Die. From luxury yurts to treehouses, these unique and off-the-grid accommodations are perfect for travelers looking for a nature-filled retreat with all the comforts of home.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a United States National Park in northeastern California. The park was established in May 1916. It contains the largest volcano in the Cascade Range, Lassen Peak, which last erupted from 1914 to 1921.

The park’s landscapes are diverse, ranging from dense forests to volcanic rock formations; cold lakes, hot springs and cinder cones; as well as meadows dotted with wildflowers.

Top Campgrounds and Attractions in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Here’s a potential table featuring top campgrounds and attractions in Lassen Volcanic National Park:

Campground NameCampground DescriptionNearby Attractions
Manzanita Lake Camping CabinsRustic cabins with basic amenities, located near Manzanita Lake.Manzanita Lake, Lassen Peak, Kings Creek Falls
Summit Lake SouthBeautiful lakefront sites with easy access to hiking trails.Bumpass Hell, Cinder Cone, Hat Creek, Devastated Area
Juniper Lake CampgroundSecluded sites in a remote location near a picturesque lake.Juniper Lake, Warner Valley, Dream Lake

Brand names were not used in this table as they were not relevant to the information provided.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is a large park in Colorado with over 415 square miles of land. It’s one of the most popular national parks in the US, with over five million visitors each year.

The park boasts an incredible landscape that includes lakes and waterfalls as well as rugged mountain peaks and alpine meadows full of wildflowers. Visitors can hike through these areas or take part in other outdoor activities such as horseback riding or biking on more than 400 miles of trails.

Rocky Mountain National Park also has an impressive wildlife population, including elk, deer, moose (or “moose”), bears and wolves!

Looking for the best glamping spots in the United States? Our guide on The Top 15 Glamping Spots in the United States is just what you need. Explore stunning mountain ranges and national parks from the comfort of your own treehouse or safari tent.

Biscayne National Park

Biscayne National Park is a United States National Park located in southern Florida, south of Miami. It includes islands in Biscayne Bay and Monroe County. 

The park covers an area of 1,509 acres (619 ha) with 2 miles (3 km) of coastline, including much of Biscayne Bay and its barrier reefs along with several keys (key means “island” in Spanish).

Biscayne National Park protects one of the last remaining coral reefs in the continental United States, as well as many endangered species that call this ecosystem home. 

The waters here are also home to manatees and sea turtles; you might even see dolphins swimming alongside your boat!

Top Campgrounds and Attractions in Biscayne National Park

Here’s a potential table featuring top campgrounds and attractions in Biscayne National Park:

Campground NameCampground DescriptionNearby Attractions
Boca Chita KeyPrimitive campsites accessible only by boat, with a historic lighthouse on the island.Boca Chita Lighthouse, Elliott Key, Maritime Heritage Trail
Elliott KeySecluded beach campsites on a remote island accessible only by boat.Snorkeling at the reef, hiking the trails, camping on the beach
Adams KeyScenic campsites on a peaceful island accessible only by boat.Boating, hiking, kayaking, fishing

Brand names were used where appropriate, such as Boca Chita Lighthouse and Maritime Heritage Trail, to provide more context and help readers better understand the area.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its natural beauty and picturesque landscapes. The park encompasses an area of more than 800 miles and is home to more than 800 miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail that runs through it. It also has a diverse range of wildlife such as black bears, elk and coyotes.

Planning a camping trip with the family? Our list of Best Campgrounds for Families in the USA has got you covered. From beachfront sites to mountain retreats, these campgrounds offer something for everyone, making it the ultimate family vacation.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is located in northwestern Montana, and it’s home to many glaciers. The park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s also home to many endangered species.

Glacier National Park was established in 1910 by President Taft as a national monument before becoming a national park in 1925. It covers over 1 million acres with over 700 miles of trails available for hikers of all skill levels (or none). 

The park has been featured in many films including “The Shining” starring Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall which was filmed here back in 1980-81;

Even if you don’t want to hike or camp out here yourself there are plenty of other things that you can do while visiting such as boating on Lake McDonald or visiting Going-to-the-Sun Road which is one of only two roads open year round through this area due largely in part because they have tunnels cut through mountains allowing access during winter months when temperatures drop below freezing temperatures outside without having too much snow accumulation inside these tunnels themselves which would otherwise render them closed off until springtime arrives again later next year.”

If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful camping locations in the USA, look no further than our list of The Most Beautiful Camping Locations in the USA. From hidden lakes in the Pacific Northwest to majestic mountain ridges in the Rockies, these picturesque destinations will take your breath away.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is located in San Diego County, California. It was named after Juan Bautista de Anza and is the largest state park in California.

It’s also one of the most visited parks in the state with over 1 million visitors each year. The park has been designated as an International Biosphere Reserve and a National Park Service Natural Landmark due to its unique geology and vegetation.

For those seeking adventure in the great outdoors, preparation is key. Our guide on Expert Tips for Staying Safe and Surviving in the Wilderness provides comprehensive strategies for wilderness survival, including tips on building a shelter, finding food and water, and how to navigate through the wilderness.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a new place to go camping, check out these 17 surprising destinations in the USA. From islands off the coast of Maine to mountains in Colorado, we’ve got something for everyone!

Further Reading

For more information on camping and exploring nature in the United States, check out these articles:

The Most Scenic Campgrounds in the US – Discover some of the most breathtaking landscapes and pristine wilderness areas in the United States with this list of scenic campgrounds.

21 Scenic Places to go Camping in the United States – Get off the beaten path and explore some of the best-kept secrets of America’s national parks and natural wonders with this comprehensive guide to camping destinations.

10 Best Camping Destinations in the USA – From the Adirondacks in New York to the red rocks of Sedona, these dreamy campgrounds offer adventure-seekers breathtaking landscapes, outdoor activities, and unforgettable memories.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about camping in the United States:

What should I bring on a camping trip?

Some essential items to bring on a camping trip include a tent, sleeping bag, camping stove, water filter, first-aid kit, and proper clothing and footwear.

What are the best times of year to go camping in the United States?

The best times to go camping in the United States will depend on the region and climate. Generally, spring and fall are great times to go camping in most regions, while summer may be too hot in certain areas. Winter camping is also an option, but it requires extra preparation and gear.

How do I plan a camping trip?

To plan a successful camping trip, choose a destination, research the area, create a packing list, and make reservations if necessary. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with safety procedures and potential hazards, especially if you’re inexperienced.

What are some fun activities to do while camping?

Fun activities to do while camping include hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and stargazing. Many campgrounds also offer organized activities such as guided hikes, nature walks, and ranger talks.

What are some safety tips for camping?

Safety tips for camping include researching the area beforehand, familiarizing yourself with local wildlife and weather patterns, packing appropriate gear and clothing, and informing someone of your plans. It’s also important to follow proper fire safety procedures and leave no trace when camping.