Ready to ditch the ordinary for the extraordinary? These 12 breathtaking camping spots in the good ol' USA offer various types of natural escapes like misty mountains, deserts, rock formations, hidden beach coves, mystical rainforests, and glaciers.
These coveted national parks are ready to entertain thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. So, grab your camping cooler and gear, pack your sense of wonder, and let's hit the road!
The Best Camping Spots In The USA
- Yosemite National Park, California
- Acadia National Park, Maine
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
- Glacier National Park, Montana
- Zion National Park, Utah
- Olympic National Park, Washington
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
- Joshua Tree National Park, California
- Arches National Park, Utah
- Denali National Park, Alaska
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Get ready to be blown away by the jaw-dropping beauty of Yosemite National Park. With towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and epic hiking trails, this site is the Holy Grail for outdoor enthusiasts. Pitch your tent at Upper Pines Campground and wake up to views that'll make your Instagram followers jealous.
2. Acadia National Park, Maine
Maine might be known for lobsters, but Acadia National Park steals the show for adventurers. Picture camping along rugged coastlines, exploring hidden coves, and exploring granite peaks. If you catch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, you'll understand why Acadia is pure magic!
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park offers you a land of geysers, hot springs, and bison! Camping here is like stepping into a real-life nature documentary. You can set up camp near the state park campground Old Faithful. The night sky from here is almost unbelievable, and you’ll likely see a few bison roaming around the campsite.
4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Get ready for a dose of Southern nature highlighted by the misty mountain vibes of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 800 miles of trails and some of the most diverse wildlife in the country, this place is a hiker's paradise. Don't forget to pack your banjo for some campfire tunes!
5. Glacier National Park, Montana
Prepare to be transported to a land of icy blue lakes, rugged peaks, and glaciers that'll make you feel like you're in the Swiss Alps. Glacier National Park is a photographer's dream come true. You can camp at Many Glacier Campground where you’ll likely hear the sound of elk bugling in the distance.
6. Zion National Park, Utah
Utah’s Zion National Park offers adventure campers towering red rock formations and epic slot canyons. Camp at Watchman Campground and spend your days hiking through the Narrows or scaling Angel's Landing.
7. Olympic National Park, Washington
Ever wanted to camp in a rainforest? Head to Olympic National Park and live out your Tarzan fantasies among towering trees and moss-covered forests. But that's not all – Olympic also boasts rugged coastlines, alpine meadows, and epic mountains. Camping at Kalaloch Campground offers the perfect mix of a beach getaway and rainforest charm.
8. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
You've seen the pictures, but nothing can prepare you for the sheer magnitude of the Grand Canyon. Camping here feels like you’ve found the edge of the world. Set up your tent at Mather Campground and watch in awe as the sun sets over the canyon walls. Just remember to pack plenty of water – it gets hot out there!
9. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty of Joshua Tree National Park. With its iconic Joshua trees, giant boulders, and star-filled skies, this place is a mecca for campers and stargazers. Camp at Jumbo Rocks Campground and let the desert be the backdrop of an adventure you’ll never forget.
10. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park is the land of rock arches, hoodoos, and towering spires. Ready to feel like you’re in an outdoor art gallery? The park has over 2,000 natural sandstone arches! Set up camp at Devils Garden Campground and spend your days exploring the park's countless natural wonders. Just don't forget your camera—you're going to need it!
11. Denali National Park, Alaska
For those who crave true wilderness, Denali National Park ticks every box. With its vast tundra, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife, this place is the epitome of adventure. You can camp at Teklanika River Campground where your view is complemented by North America's tallest peak, Denali.
12. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Last but not least, we have Shenandoah National Park, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Shenandoah is a camper's paradise with its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and epic views. Pitch your tent at Big Meadows Campground and spend your days exploring the park's scenic Skyline Drive.
Final Thoughts On The Best Camping Spots
The great outdoors is calling – are you ready to answer? From the majestic granite cliffs of Yosemite to the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, there’s plenty of reasons why these US destinations are iconic. These 12 best camping spots are bound to ignite your sense of adventure!
PS. Cubix coolers are the perfect companion for your outdoor escapades. They have innovative features like a built-in bottle opener and can keep food cold for up to 5 days!
