Skip the crowds (and the pricey entrance fees) of national parks by heading to a nearby state park instead.
Fact checked by Sarah Cahalan
You may dream of seeing the geysers of Yellowstone or the overwhelming greatness of the Grand Canyon, but chances are you have a handful of little wonders in your own backyard. State parks like Goblin Valley in Utah hold their own against the neighboring Arches National Park (or Canyonlands, for that matter), while Maine’s Baxter State Park is arguably just as wild as the well-known Acadia National Park (Baxter doesn’t even have running water!). Moreover, state parks tend to be less crowded and more affordable, two factors that bode well for overnight guests.
Explore State Parks
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a well-developed RV site with all the bells and whistles or a wooded tent spot far from any sort of road or development, there’s a state park campsite for you. Consequently, we’ve curated a list of some of the best state park campsites known for their popularity and beauty.
Camping Tips
State parks may not see the heavy traffic of national parks, but in most cases, you’ll still want to plan ahead to secure your camping spot. Each state operates its own reservation system, which may be online, via phone, or even in person. Some parks—like Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada—are first-come, first-served, so showing up late in the day could be problematic.
Before you pack up and head out, ensure you research what amenities are available—some state park campgrounds may require you to pack in your own water and pack out your trash, while others offer full RV hookups, hot showers, and stores.
Lastly, respect any wildlife you encounter, manage your campfire responsibly (you don’t want to be that person), and follow the principles of Leave No Trace.
Top State Campgrounds
Goblin Valley Campground, Goblin Valley State Park, Utah
Visually, it doesn’t get more spectacular than Goblin Valley State Park. The Mars-like terrain is dotted with rock hoodoos. After a day of exploration, retire to one of the park’s 25 campsites (including 14 RV spaces and a group site accommodating up to 40 people). However, keep in mind there are no electrical hookups.
City of Rocks Campground, City of Rocks State Park, New Mexico
Imagine parking your rig or setting up your tent in a literal city of rocks at City of Rocks State Park, where volcanic rock formations rise up dramatically. Here, you can navigate through the roads and trails to find your perfect spot for the night, ensuring access to showers, bathrooms, and water.
Southend Campground, Moran State Park, Washington
It’s all about getting out on the water at Moran State Park, located in Puget Sound on Orcas Island. With over 5,000 acres of terrain, the activities are endless and the scenery unbeatable. The best spot to lay your head is Southend Campground, where every campsite is positioned right along the shoreline. You’ll have access to showers and bathrooms, and you can opt for glamorous camping in one of the campground’s canvas tents with real beds.
Bird Creek Campground, Chugach State Park, Alaska
The gigantic Chugach State Park features diverse landscapes from oceanfront to glaciers. Bird Creek Campground should be your choice for camping here, offering 24 campsites, toilets, water, and RV accessibility. Furthermore, it is renowned for in-camp whale watching, with opportunities to glimpse bald eagles and moose.
Hammonasset Beach Campground, Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut
Connecticut’s largest public beach park offers a variety of amenities, including miles of shoreline for swimming, walking trails, and picnic areas. Be aware that camping is available only in the summer months.
Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground, Minnewaska State Park Preserve, New York
Located just two hours north of New York City, Minnewaska State Park Preserve features waterfalls, lakes, and 50 miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The tent-only campground includes 26 drive-in spots and a cooking area, perfect for those seeking a nature experience.
Atlatl Rock Campground, Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
With red arches and petroglyphs, Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park is a visual treat. The Atlatl Rock Campground offers RV spots with power and water, and all campsites (except group sites) are first-come, first-served.
Goose Creek Campground, Goose Creek State Park, North Carolina
At Goose Creek State Park, enjoy coastal camping with walking trails, plentiful wildlife, and RV camping area. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and access to bathrooms and water, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience.
Center Lake Campground, Custer State Park, South Dakota
Set in the iconic Black Hills, Custer State Park is a vast natural haven for hiking, biking, and fishing. Center Lake Campground is conveniently located next to Center Lake, equipped with showers and bathrooms, ideal for a car roof tent camping scenario.
Colorado Bend Campground, Colorado Bend State Park, Texas
You may discover surprising natural features at Colorado Bend State Park. Featuring caves, springs, and lush landscapes, it offers various campsites, including hike-in options and spots that can accommodate RVs.
Roaring Brook Campground, Baxter State Park, Maine
In Baxter State Park, visitors experience a truly remote camping adventure. The stunning Roaring Brook Campground offers primitive camping (only available in summer). Make sure you pack sufficient supplies, including water and food, before exploring the trail to Chimney Pond.
Emerald Bay Boat Camp, Emerald Bay State Park, California
Located on Lake Tahoe, Emerald Bay State Park features picturesque camping at Emerald Bay Boat Camp (summer only), where you can dock your boat and camp on the lakefront. Notably, sites book quickly, so plan ahead for your visit.
