Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than our ultimate guide to the best national parks for camping in the U.S.! From breathtaking mountain vistas to pristine lakeshores, the rugged beauty of these top spots will leave you in awe. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time camper, there’s something for everyone in these incredible destinations. So grab your gear, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to discover the wonders of nature in the best national parks for camping across the United States!
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Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the best ways to experience the park is by camping, and there are several campgrounds available to accommodate visitors.
Upper Pines Campground
Upper Pines Campground is nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley and offers a convenient location to explore the park’s iconic attractions. With over 230 sites, this campground provides a range of facilities including restrooms, fire pits, and picnic tables. The picturesque Merced River flows nearby, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities like fishing and swimming.
Lower Pines Campground
Lower Pines Campground, located just a short distance from Upper Pines, offers a similar experience but with a more secluded atmosphere. With its close proximity to the Merced River, visitors can enjoy a peaceful camping experience while still being within reach of popular hiking trails and attractions like Yosemite Falls.
North Pines Campground
For those seeking a riverside camping experience, North Pines Campground is the perfect choice. Situated along the banks of the Merced River, this campground offers stunning views and provides easy access to swimming and fishing spots. With its proximity to Half Dome Village and the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, visitors will have no shortage of activities to enjoy.
Tuolumne Meadows Campground
Nestled at an elevation of 8,600 feet, Tuolumne Meadows Campground offers a unique camping experience in Yosemite. Surrounded by picturesque meadows and granite peaks, this campground is a haven for hikers and nature lovers. With facilities like flush toilets and potable water, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the high country without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Bridalveil Creek Campground
Located near the famous Bridalveil Fall, Bridalveil Creek Campground is the perfect basecamp for exploring Yosemite’s western side. With its peaceful setting and proximity to hiking trails like the Glacier Point Trail, this campground provides an ideal escape for those seeking a quieter camping experience.
Grand Canyon National Park
No list of the best national parks for camping would be complete without mentioning the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park. This iconic park in Arizona offers several campgrounds that allow visitors to immerse themselves in its natural wonders.
Mather Campground
Mather Campground is the largest campground in Grand Canyon National Park, offering over 300 sites suitable for tents and RVs. Located near the South Rim, campers can enjoy stunning views of the canyon and easy access to popular hiking trails. With amenities like flush toilets, laundry facilities, and a general store, Mather Campground provides a comfortable camping experience for all.
North Rim Campground
Situated on the less crowded North Rim of the Grand Canyon, North Rim Campground offers a peaceful and serene camping experience. The campground boasts stunning views of the canyon and provides easy access to hiking trails that showcase the park’s unique beauty. However, due to its remote location, it is only open during the summer months.
South Rim Campground
Located near the South Rim Visitor Center, the South Rim Campground is a popular choice for visitors looking to explore the more developed area of the park. With its convenient location and various amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a camp store, this campground provides a comfortable and accessible camping experience.
Desert View Campground
For a quieter camping experience, Desert View Campground is an excellent option. Situated near the eastern entrance of the park, this campground offers breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon. With limited amenities, including restrooms and a camp store, Desert View Campground is ideal for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.
Havasu Falls Campground
For the adventurous souls, Havasu Falls Campground offers a truly unique and unforgettable camping experience. Located within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, this campground requires a challenging 10-mile hike to access, but the reward is well worth it. Visitors will be treated to stunning turquoise waterfalls and the opportunity to swim in natural pools. Permits are highly sought after, so advanced planning is essential.
Yellowstone National Park
As the first national park in the United States, Yellowstone National Park holds a special place in the hearts of nature lovers. Known for its geothermal wonders, wildlife, and vast landscapes, Yellowstone offers a range of camping options to suit every camper’s preferences.
Bridge Bay Campground
Located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, Bridge Bay Campground offers stunning lake views and a tranquil camping experience. With over 400 campsites that can accommodate tents and RVs, visitors have plenty of options to choose from. The campground provides amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a general store, making it a popular choice for families and larger groups.
Canyon Campground
Nestled in the heart of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon, Canyon Campground offers a more secluded camping experience surrounded by pine forests and picturesque views. With over 250 sites available, this campground provides amenities like flush toilets, showers, and a nearby visitor center. Its proximity to popular hiking trails and the famous Yellowstone Falls makes it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
Grant Village Campground
Located on the southern end of Yellowstone National Park, Grant Village Campground offers a convenient location for those looking to explore the park’s geothermal features. With its proximity to attractions like the West Thumb Geyser Basin and Yellowstone Lake, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the park’s unique landscapes. The campground provides amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a visitor center.
Madison Campground
Situated near the West Entrance of Yellowstone, Madison Campground is the ideal starting point for exploring the park’s western side. With its wooded setting and proximity to the Madison River, visitors can enjoy a peaceful camping experience. The campground offers amenities like flush toilets, but showers are not available.
Fishing Bridge RV Park
If you’re traveling in an RV, Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only campground in Yellowstone that allows hard-sided vehicles. Located near the Yellowstone River, this campground provides easy access to fishing spots and wildlife viewing opportunities. With amenities like full hook-ups, flush toilets, and showers, Fishing Bridge RV Park offers a comfortable camping experience for RV enthusiasts.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, known as the Crown of the Continent, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and rugged mountain peaks, camping in Glacier National Park is an unforgettable experience.
Apgar Campground
Apgar Campground, located on the western side of the park, is the largest campground in Glacier National Park. With over 190 sites suitable for tents and RVs, this campground offers a range of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a camp store. Its close proximity to Lake McDonald makes it a popular choice for water activities like fishing and swimming.
Many Glacier Campground
Many Glacier Campground is nestled in the northeastern part of the park, offering breathtaking views of towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes. With its serene setting and proximity to popular hiking trails, this campground is a favorite among nature enthusiasts. Amenities are limited, with restrooms and potable water available.
St. Mary Campground
Located near the eastern entrance of Glacier National Park, St. Mary Campground provides a convenient starting point for exploring the park’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. With stunning views of St. Mary Lake and its close proximity to hiking trails, this campground offers a serene camping experience. Amenities at St. Mary Campground include restrooms, water, and a nearby camp store.
Fish Creek Campground
Fish Creek Campground, situated on the western side of Glacier National Park, offers a tranquil and secluded camping experience. Surrounded by lush forest and near the banks of Lake McDonald, this campground is perfect for those seeking solace in nature. Amenities include restrooms, potable water, and a camp store.
Two Medicine Campground
Tucked away in a more remote area of Glacier National Park, Two Medicine Campground provides a peaceful and rustic camping experience. Surrounded by stunning scenery, including views of Two Medicine Lake and the surrounding mountains, this campground is perfect for those seeking a serene outdoor getaway. Amenities are limited, with restrooms and potable water available.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, located in Colorado, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with its majestic peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Camping in this stunning wilderness is an incredible way to experience the park’s beauty and tranquility.
Moraine Park Campground
Moraine Park Campground, located in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, offers a picturesque camping experience surrounded by towering peaks and verdant meadows. With over 200 campsites available, visitors can choose between tent-only or RV-friendly sites. Amenities like flush toilets, a camp store, and ranger-led programs make Moraine Park Campground a popular choice for visitors.
Aspenglen Campground
Aspenglen Campground, situated on the park’s east side, provides a peaceful and wooded camping experience. With its close proximity to popular hiking trails and scenic drives, this campground is a favorite among nature enthusiasts. Amenities at Aspenglen Campground include restrooms, potable water, and picnic tables.
Glacier Basin Campground
Nestled near the base of Longs Peak, the tallest mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground offers breathtaking views and a serene camping experience. With easy access to hiking trails and the opportunity to witness incredible alpine scenery, this campground is perfect for adventurers. Amenities include restrooms and potable water.
Sprague Lake Campground
Sprague Lake Campground, located on the park’s east side, provides a tranquil camping experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With its close proximity to Sprague Lake, visitors can enjoy fishing, picnicking, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. Amenities at Sprague Lake Campground include restrooms and potable water.
Longs Peak Campground
Longs Peak Campground, situated near the park’s iconic Longs Peak, offers a more rustic camping experience in a stunning alpine setting. With its remote location and limited amenities, including vault toilets and potable water, this campground is ideal for those seeking a backcountry experience. However, be prepared for the challenging hikes and unpredictable weather conditions that come with camping at higher elevations.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park in Utah is known for its towering red cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and diverse wildlife. With its unique landscapes and breathtaking vistas, camping in Zion allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in nature.
Watchman Campground
Watchman Campground, located near the south entrance of Zion National Park, provides a convenient and scenic camping experience. With breathtaking views of Zion’s red cliffs and the Virgin River, this campground offers a true sense of serenity. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and access to a shuttle bus stop, making it easy to explore the park’s attractions.
South Campground
South Campground, situated near the park’s visitor center, is a popular choice for those seeking a more primitive and secluded camping experience. With its towering cottonwood trees and close proximity to the Virgin River, this campground offers a peaceful retreat. Amenities at South Campground are limited, with only vault toilets available.
Lava Point Campground
For those seeking a more remote and off-the-beaten-path camping experience, Lava Point Campground is the perfect option. Located in the northern reaches of Zion National Park, this campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great starting point for adventurous hikes. However, amenities are limited, and campers must bring their own water.
Watchman Group Site
The Watchman Group Site is ideal for larger groups who want to camp together. Situated near the South Campground, this group site provides all the amenities of the regular Watchman Campground but with the added convenience of accommodating larger parties. Reservations are required for the Watchman Group Site.
South Group Site
Similar to the Watchman Group Site, the South Group Site is designed for larger groups and offers a memorable camping experience. Located near the South Campground, this group site provides a range of amenities and easy access to the park’s hiking trails and attractions. Reservations for the South Group Site are also required.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, is a popular destination for camping, thanks to its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. With its range of campgrounds, visitors can enjoy a variety of camping experiences.
Cades Cove Campground
Located in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, Cades Cove Campground offers a unique camping experience in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its proximity to the Cades Cove Loop Road, visitors have easy access to scenic drives, historical sites, and memorable hikes. The campground provides amenities like restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
Smokemont Campground
Smokemont Campground, located on the North Carolina side of the park, provides a peaceful and scenic camping experience. Surrounded by towering trees and near the Oconaluftee River, this campground is perfect for nature enthusiasts and anglers. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and a nearby visitor center.
Elkmont Campground
Elkmont Campground, known for its historic cabins and stunning firefly displays, offers a unique camping experience in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its close proximity to hiking trails and the opportunity to witness synchronous fireflies in early summer, this campground is a favorite among nature lovers. Amenities at Elkmont Campground include restrooms and potable water.
Cataloochee Campground
Situated in the more remote Cataloochee Valley, Cataloochee Campground offers a tranquil and immersive camping experience. With its historic structures and picturesque landscapes, visitors can step back in time and imagine what life was like for early settlers in the area. Amenities at Cataloochee Campground include restrooms and potable water.
Deep Creek Campground
Deep Creek Campground, located near the park’s Deep Creek area, provides a relaxing camping experience with easy access to waterfalls, hiking trails, and tubing opportunities. With its serene setting and abundance of outdoor activities, this campground is a favorite among families and adventure seekers. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and a nearby camp store.
Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park in Florida is a unique and diverse ecosystem, characterized by its vast wetlands, mangrove forests, and abundant wildlife. Camping in the Everglades allows visitors to truly appreciate the park’s natural wonders and engage in a variety of outdoor activities.
Flamingo Campground
Flamingo Campground, located at the southern tip of the Everglades, offers a picturesque camping experience overlooking Florida Bay. With its proximity to popular paddling trails, fishing spots, and hiking trails, this campground is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Amenities at Flamingo Campground include restrooms, showers, and a nearby marina.
Long Pine Key Campground
Long Pine Key Campground, situated in the heart of the park, offers a more rustic and secluded camping experience. Surrounded by towering pine trees and abundant wildlife, this campground provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Amenities at Long Pine Key Campground include restrooms and access to hiking and biking trails.
Gulf Coast Campground
Located on the park’s Gulf Coast, Gulf Coast Campground offers a unique camping experience with access to white sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets. With its serene setting and proximity to water activities like kayaking and fishing, this campground is ideal for those seeking a coastal camping experience. Amenities at Gulf Coast Campground include restrooms and access to beachside picnic areas.
Tiger Key Campground
For a more remote and off-the-beaten-path camping experience, Tiger Key Campground is the perfect choice. Located on a small island in Florida Bay, this primitive campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mangrove forests and the opportunity to spot abundant marine wildlife. Campers must bring their own water and portable toilets.
North River Campground
North River Campground, situated on the park’s northern boundary, provides a peaceful and scenic camping experience. With its proximity to hiking trails, fishing spots, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like alligators and birds, this campground is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Amenities at North River Campground include restrooms and picnic areas.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, located on the coast of Maine, is a picturesque destination known for its rugged coastlines, granite peaks, and breathtaking sunrises. Camping in Acadia offers visitors the opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes and engage in a range of outdoor activities.
Blackwoods Campground
Blackwoods Campground, located in the heart of Acadia National Park, offers a picturesque camping experience surrounded by scenic coastlines and lush forests. With stunning sunset views and easy access to popular attractions like Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole, this campground is a favorite among visitors. Amenities at Blackwoods Campground include restrooms and access to nearby hiking trails.
Seawall Campground
Seawall Campground, situated on the park’s western side, provides a peaceful and more secluded camping experience. Located near the park’s rocky shores and popular hiking trails, this campground offers a true escape into nature. Amenities at Seawall Campground include restrooms and access to nearby beaches.
Schoodic Woods Campground
Schoodic Woods Campground, located on the Schoodic Peninsula, offers a quieter and less crowded camping experience compared to the main portion of Acadia National Park. With its serene setting and proximity to hiking trails and scenic coastal views, this campground is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil stay. Amenities at Schoodic Woods Campground include restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
Bass Harbor Campground
Bass Harbor Campground, situated on the park’s quieter side, provides access to beautiful Acadia landscapes without the crowds. With its close proximity to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and hiking trails, visitors can enjoy a more relaxed camping experience. Amenities at Bass Harbor Campground include restrooms, drinking water, and a nearby camp store.
Bar Harbor Campground
Bar Harbor Campground, located just outside the park’s entrance, is a great option for those looking to explore Acadia National Park while enjoying the amenities of a well-equipped campground. With its proximity to downtown Bar Harbor and easy access to hiking trails, this campground offers a convenient and enjoyable camping experience. Amenities at Bar Harbor Campground include restrooms, showers, and a camp store.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, are home to giant sequoias, towering peaks, and stunning alpine scenery. Camping in these parks allows visitors to experience the grandeur of these ancient trees and explore the wilderness of the Sierra Nevada.
Lodgepole Campground
Lodgepole Campground, located in the heart of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, offers a convenient basecamp for exploring the parks’ iconic attractions. With its proximity to hiking trails, the General Sherman Tree, and the stunning Tokopah Falls, visitors have easy access to some of the parks’ highlights. Amenities at Lodgepole Campground include restrooms, showers, a visitor center, and a nearby camp store.
Dorst Creek Campground
Dorst Creek Campground, situated near Grant Grove, offers a more secluded camping experience surrounded by towering sequoias and picturesque meadows. With its proximity to the General Grant Tree and the Grant Grove Village, visitors can explore the parks’ beautiful landscapes while enjoying a peaceful retreat. Amenities at Dorst Creek Campground include restrooms and access to nearby hiking trails.
Potwisha Campground
Potwisha Campground, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, offers a more rustic and quiet camping experience. With its scenic setting along the Kaweah River and proximity to popular hiking trails, this campground is perfect for nature enthusiasts. Amenities at Potwisha Campground include restrooms, picnic tables, and access to the river.
Cedar Grove Campground
Cedar Grove Campground, situated in Kings Canyon National Park, offers a unique camping experience in a remote and stunning setting. With its proximity to the picturesque Kings River and access to scenic hikes like Mist Falls, this campground is a favorite among outdoor adventurers. Amenities at Cedar Grove Campground include restrooms and a nearby visitor center.
Sheep Creek Campground
Sheep Creek Campground, located near the park’s northern entrance, provides a peaceful and more secluded camping experience. With its scenic setting and proximity to the Kings River, visitors can enjoy a tranquil retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Kings Canyon National Park. Amenities at Sheep Creek Campground include restrooms and access to the river.
Camping in the national parks of the United States offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, explore stunning landscapes, and create lasting memories. Whether you prefer the tranquility of the mountains, the ruggedness of the desert, or the serenity of coastal vistas, there is a national park campground to suit your preferences. So pack your camping gear, gather your friends and family, and embark on an adventure in one of the country’s best national parks for camping. Happy camping!
