Camping Trip Planning Guide
The best places to go camping usually include a great destination. Campers love the great outdoors, national parks, wilderness areas, beaches, lakes, and mountains. Your favorite camping destinations offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and adventures, provide a relaxing natural environment, and showcase scenic views.
Before you plan your next family camping trip, consider these top spots for camping and RVing. We’ve explored the great outdoors for the best spots to pitch a tent and found the top campgrounds for your next camping getaway. This list is a round-up of the best destinations and campgrounds to go camping in North America.
Top 5 U.S. States for Camping
The best places to camp in the United States feature a variety of landscapes, including beaches, mountains, rivers, lakes, and deserts. Additionally, there are numerous campground options such as state parks, national parks, private campgrounds, and forest areas. Each state has its unique appeal; however, five states stand out as the top camping destinations in the U.S.: Colorado, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, and New York.
Favorite National Parks to Pitch a Tent
With 59 national parks in the United States, there are plenty of fantastic places to explore the great outdoors. The National Park Service protects natural resources while providing camping experiences for everyone to enjoy. The best national parks for camping are selected based on various factors such as camping opportunities, natural environments, and stunning landscapes. Some of the top national parks to consider for a camping trip include Glacier, Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone, and Yosemite.
Best Canadian National Parks
Canada’s pristine wilderness, rugged mountains, and secluded beaches create some of the best national parks globally. With 44 national parks available, campers can choose from developed, primitive, and backcountry camping experiences tailored to various interests. The top national parks in Canada for camping include Banff, Georgian Bay Islands, Kootenay, Prince Edward Island, and Terra Nova.
Whitefish, Montana and Glacier National Park
Whitefish, located on the western slope of the Continental Divide, is near the west entrance to Glacier National Park. This area serves as an excellent base camp for outdoor adventures in the Rocky Mountains, making it an ideal choice for a family camping trip. Therefore, consider planning a getaway to Whitefish, Montana, and Glacier National Park for your next camping excursion.
Top 5 U.S. Wilderness Areas
The Wilderness Act of 1964 established a preservation system for wilderness lands in the United States. More than 700 federally protected wilderness areas provide outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing while conserving sensitive environments for future generations to appreciate. Although not all wilderness areas offer camping opportunities, many provide excellent options for backpacking, solitude, and recreational activities.
Lake Tahoe Camping and Recreation
Camping in Lake Tahoe is considered one of the best outdoor experiences in North America. With 71 miles of shoreline, the high alpine lake’s stunning blue waters are accentuated by the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains. Tahoe is not only a top spot for camping and RVing; moreover, it is also a favorite destination for boating, hiking, and cycling. Located in both California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe offers numerous campsites for RVs and families.
California’s Central Coast is an exceptional spot for a camping road trip, known for its rugged coastline and numerous beach camping options. Stretching from Santa Barbara to Morro Bay and Big Sur, the coast offers hundreds of beach campsites. Furthermore, the Central Coast presents a myriad of activities, including surfing, mountain biking, hiking, and wine tasting. For those who prefer relaxation, simply sinking your toes in the sand and enjoying California’s scenic coast can be immensely fulfilling.
