When you think of America, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the iconic landscapes. You might think of wide-open prairies, vast seas of corn, or even the majestic Rocky Mountains. But there’s one kind of landscape that’s particularly popular among American travelers: National Parks.
These places are so special that they get their own name — “National Park” — and they’re protected by our government as some of our most sacred land.
While there are dozens upon dozens of countries around the world with national parks (some are even underwater!), we can’t help but be proud that ours are some of the best in the world. So take a look at this list if you’re ready for an amazing vacation experience!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| The best camping destinations for solo travelers in the USA |
| Camping can be a great option for solo travelers looking to reconnect with nature and find adventure. |
| The US has no shortage of stunning campsites, from national parks to hidden gems. |
| Solo travelers can enjoy unique and memorable experiences, such as stargazing, hiking, and wildlife watching. |
| When planning a solo camping trip, be sure to research and prepare ahead of time to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. |
1. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is a perfect place for solo travelers to take in the beauty of nature. The park, which is located in southern California, has over 800 miles of hiking trails and activities to do. Joshua Tree is best known for its rock formations and wildlife.
The desert landscape can be seen at certain times of day when shadows create interesting shapes on the ground. You can also see wildflowers and Joshua Trees here, which are among the most iconic plants that grow in this area.
If you’re a solo traveler looking to embark on a memorable camping trip, check out our list of the best camping trips for solo travelers. From exploring the beauty of nature to experiencing adventure like never before, these camping trips will leave you with unforgettable memories.
2. Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is a beautiful destination for the solo traveler. It’s located in Maine and has plenty of campsites, hiking trails and bike paths to keep you busy.
You can also rent kayaks to explore Frenchman Bay or walk along the seashore beaches in Schoodic Peninsula.
Top Campsites in Acadia National Park
| Campsite Name | Brand | Amenities | Price per night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blackwoods Campground | National Park Service | Restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, dump station | $30 |
| Seawall Campground | National Park Service | Restrooms, fire rings, picnic tables, dump station | $22-30 |
| Krofton Atviana Campground | Campspot | Restrooms, shower facilities, picnic tables, fire pits, playground, volleyball court | $65 |
| Mount Desert Narrows Camping Resort | Sun RV Resorts | Swimming pool, hot tub, mini-golf, arcade, general store, laundry facilities | $59-191 |
| Bar Harbor Camping Resorts – Woodlands | KOA | Cable TV, Wi-Fi, propane, firewood, swimming pool, laundry facilities | $40-90 |
This table provides a quick overview of popular campsites in Acadia National Park, including their amenities and price per night. It includes a mix of National Park Service campsites and branded campsites from companies like Sun RV Resorts and KOA.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
You don’t have to go far to find solitude in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Most of its trails are good for hiking, backpacking and camping.
With over 800 miles of trails, you can choose from a variety of routes that take you through meadows and forests with views of waterfalls and streams.
The park is also home to more than 200 species of birds, 150 types of butterflies and 30 types of reptiles including black bears! The park is known for its fall colors as well as being one of the most visited parks in America with 8 million annual visitors (but still not too crowded).
There are several campgrounds within this national treasure such as Cades Cove Campground which offers sites for tents or RVs with hookups available at some sites.
You will also find shelters throughout the park where you can pitch your tent without worrying about setting up any infrastructure at all!
Europe has many hidden gems when it comes to glamping spots. If you’re planning a trip there, don’t miss out on our guide to the top 10 glamping spots in Europe. Discover unique and luxurious accommodations in stunning locations that will take your glamping experience to a whole new level.
4. Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is located in the US state of Wyoming. The park is made up of a series of mountains known as the Grand Teton Range, which are named after their highest peak, Mount Moran (8,501 feet). The range contains about 663 square miles and was designated a national park in 1929.
The national park offers many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. There are also many trails that lead to scenic lookouts on top of mountains where visitors can view wild animals such as grizzly bears or moose roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Top Campsites in Grand Teton National Park
| Campsite Name | Brand | Amenities | Price per night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jenny Lake Campground | National Park Service | Restrooms, fire pits, picnic tables, ranger programs | $32-60 |
| Gros Ventre Campground | National Park Service | Restrooms, fire pits, picnic tables, dump station | $30-35 |
| Luton’s Teton Cabins – RV Park | Luton’s Teton Cabins | Full hookup sites, shower facilities, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, fire pits | $74-99 |
| Headwaters Campground and RV Sites | Headwaters Lodge and Cabins | Full hookup sites, shower facilities, laundry facilities, pool, hot tub, restaurant | $45-147 |
| Colter Bay Village RV Park | Grand Teton Lodge Company | Full hookup sites, shower facilities, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, restaurants, market | $82-114 |
This table provides a quick overview of popular campsites in Grand Teton National Park, including their amenities and price per night. It includes a mix of National Park Service campsites and branded campsites from companies like Luton’s Teton Cabins and Grand Teton Lodge Company.
5. Yosemite National Park
If you’re going to visit Yosemite, you’ll want to get there sooner rather than later. The park is busiest in early spring and fall, when the weather is at its most pleasant and crowds peak. For a more solitary experience, plan your trip for winter or summer months when temperatures are lower and crowds thin out.
If you want to be near many other people but still have plenty of space for yourself, try camping on one of three campgrounds located near Yosemite Valley: Camp 4 (located near Curry Village), Bridalveil Creek (near Glacier Point Road) or Lower Pines(near Bridalveil Fall).
Another option is Backpacker’s Campground which has no reservations but fills up fast; if it’s full when you arrive then head over to nearby White Wolf Lodge where they offer first come first serve campsites with an indoor pool and hot tub!
Camping can be a fun and invigorating experience, but it’s important to stay safe while doing so. That’s why we’ve compiled expert tips and advice on how to stay safe while camping in the USA. From preparing for emergencies to staying aware of wildlife, our guide has everything you need to know to make your camping trip as safe as possible.
6. Denali National Park and Preserve
If you want to see wildlife, Denali National Park and Preserve is the place to go. This park has one of the largest populations of caribou in the world.
It’s also home to moose, grizzly bears, wolves and many other animals. The hiking trails are some of the best in America too!
Denali National Park and Preserve Information
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Alaska |
| Established | February 26, 1917 |
| Area | 6 million acres |
| Activities | Hiking, cycling, wildlife viewing, mountaineering, backcountry camping |
| Accommodations | Riley Creek, Savage River, Teklanika River, and Wonder Lake campgrounds, as well as lodges and cabins in the surrounding area |
| Tour Operators | Denali Park Village, Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, Kantishna Roadhouse |
In this table, we’ve included key information on Denali National Park and Preserve, including its location, establishment date, activities available, and accommodations offered. We’ve also included some tour operators that visitors may consider when planning a trip to the park.
7. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is located in Colorado, and it’s the fourth most visited national park in the US. It’s home to over 300 miles of hiking trails, and over 1,000 plant species. The park has some pretty amazing views too:
If you’re looking for something a little more solitary than any camping trip can offer, check out Hanging Lake a beautiful turquoise lake surrounded by cliffs and trees.
You’ll find it about a mile outside Glenwood Springs, which is about an hour from Aspen or Vail. It’s one of Colorado’s best kept secrets!
Looking for the most scenic locations to camp in America? Look no further than our guide to the best camping spots in America. From beachside campsites to mountain escapes, we’ve curated a list of the most beautiful and picturesque spots across the country.
8. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a magnificent and awe-inspiring place. There are over 700 miles of hiking trails, including the spectacular 100 mile long Highline Trail.
This park is home to over 130 named glaciers, providing plenty of opportunities for both novice and expert hikers.
The park also has a wide variety of wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose and bighorn sheep which can be spotted from both the trails and atop any number of peaks throughout the park.
After you’ve had your fill with all things outdoorsy, there are plenty of places to spend time indoors in Glacier National Park as well.
Many hotels offer excellent views over one or more lakes or valleys within the park itself; however if you’re looking for something slightly more rustic then you might want to consider staying at Lake McDonald Lodge which provides comfortable accommodations while still maintaining an authentic feel thanks to its log cabin design style (and yes – they do have WiFi!).
9. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert. It’s one of the most remote and least-visited national parks in the United States, and it has a reputation for being an excellent place to see wildlife.
Big Bend National Park is great for hiking, but there are also many trails that are perfect for camping.
It’s possible to see bighorn sheep, coyotes, javelinas (wild pigs), roadrunners, skunks and rattlesnakes just by taking a stroll along one of these hiking trails. The park also offers some fantastic views of stars at night because there are no lights to interfere with your view.
For those seeking hidden gems in the camping world, be sure to explore our guide on 15 hidden camping gems in the USA. From remote lakeside locations to hidden forests, these camping spots are sure to ignite your sense of adventure and leave you feeling at peace with nature.
10. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a great place for hiking and photography. The park is located in southern Utah and boasts a high concentration of rock formations, including Echo Canyon and Virgin River Narrows.
You’ll find more than 900 species of plants, as well as 815 species of animals. It’s no wonder that Zion was designated as a national park in 1919!
Zion also has plenty to offer for those who love to get out on the trail. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll along relatively flat terrain or an adrenaline-pumping hike up steep switchbacks, there’s something here for everyone—and don’t forget your camera!
11. Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park is a caldera lake in southern Oregon. It was formed when the Mount Mazama volcano collapsed, leaving behind a large and gorgeous crater that’s filled with water. The lake itself is the deepest in the United States, reaching as deep as 1,943 feet.
Crater Lake is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been called “the pride of Oregon.” If you’re looking for someplace quiet to explore by yourself or with friends, this park could be just what you’re looking for!
12. North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is a United States National Park located in the state of Washington. It borders Canada’s Glacier National Park on the country’s northern border and is part of a combined World Heritage site with Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks.
The park was designated by President Theodore Roosevelt as one of several protected areas under the name North Cascade Primitive Area in 1897, which later became North Cascades National Park in 1968.
Consisting primarily of rugged mountains, glaciers, old-growth forest and over 700 lakes, it ranges from 2,000 to 13,000 feet (600 m) above sea level.
Conclusion
Solo travel can be a great way to get to know yourself and your country. It’s also a fun way to meet other like-minded people with similar interests in your destination.
We hope that this list of the best camping destinations for solo travelers in the USA has given you inspiration for your next trip!
Further Reading
If you’re a solo traveler looking for more information and resources on camping, check out these articles:
Great US Campsites for Solo Travelers by Booking.com: Discover top campsites across the US for solo travelers to explore and enjoy.
8 Great US Campsites for Solo Travelers by Satmodo: Learn about some of the best campsites in the US that are perfect for solo travelers.
9 Best Destinations for Solo Campers by Conscious Living TV: Explore the best destinations for solo campers, where you can reconnect with nature and discover stunning landscapes.
FAQs
What are the best campsites for solo travelers?
There are many great campsites for solo travelers across the US, including Zion National Park in Utah, Acadia National Park in Maine, and Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming.
What should solo travelers pack for a camping trip?
Solo travelers should pack all necessary camping essentials, including a tent, sleeping bag, portable stove, cooking utensils, and a reliable water filter.
How can I stay safe while camping alone?
Be sure to inform someone of your plans and expected return date, bring appropriate safety equipment, including a first-aid kit, a map and compass, and bear spray (if camping in bear country), and familiarize yourself with any safety guidelines and regulations for the campsite you are visiting.
How can solo travelers meet other campers while camping?
Join group activities and events, such as guided hikes or campfire gatherings, participate in campsites’ recreation facilities, and make use of online forums and social media to connect with other solo campers.
Will campsites still be open during the offseason for solo travelers?
Many campsites stay open year-round, while some close in the offseason. Check with the campsite before planning a trip to ensure that they will be open during the time of your visit.
I’m Hellen James, and I am a camping enthusiast. I’ve been camping since I was a kid and have always loved it the fresh air, the beautiful scenery, and the great outdoors. In fact, it’s one of my favorite things to do in the summer!
