The United States is an enormous and beautiful country, full of breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecologies and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. This guide will take you through the US and its camping opportunities. We’ll look at the top states to camp, as well as the best places to camp. We will highlight some things to consider before visiting and share additional resources to help you plan your trip. The locations we will cover are only a few of the many options that exist and represent our top picks across the Nation.
Camping Trip Preparation
Preparation is the key to success in any endeavour. Begin by deciding what kind of vacation you would like to take. Do you want to be immersed in nature and away from civilisation, with no other human beings in sight? You might prefer dispersed camping. You love the outdoors but also like creature comforts. You might prefer a more established campground.
Camping options in the USA are usually divided into two categories: Established campsites and Dispersed camping.
Established campsites
These are managed campgrounds that have designated areas for tents and RVs. These sites may have electrical hookups and, in general, they are more likely than backcountry campsites to offer more basic amenities. Some sites can be reserved in advance, but others are first-come-first-served. Check to see if a pass is required or if fees are involved before you leave.
Primitive & Dispersed Camping
Dispersed Camping / Primitive camping / Backcountry camping – This term is used to describe camping outside of designated campgrounds, such as National Forests or Bureau of Land Management lands. There will be more space but no services. There will be no electrical hookups or other convenient amenities. Planning is essential to ensure you have all the things you need for an enjoyable, comfortable and safe trip.
It’s as real as you can get. Primitive camping is a camping area with very few improvements. For example, a fire ring or partially cleared tent sites. Camping in primitive spots is usually far from civilisation and has few amenities, such as electricity, running water, picnic tables or restrooms. Check out the local regulations before you plan your trip. You may require a permit to camp in certain areas.
Camping Safety
To enjoy the outdoors, it is important to stay safe when camping. Following basic safety guidelines will ensure a worry-free and fun adventure in the outdoors.
Fire Safety
Nothing is more enjoyable than gathering around a fire, making ‘mores, and sharing stories. Before you light a campfire in the United States, it is important to ensure that it is safe and that it’s allowed. State-by-state, rules vary depending on the conditions and environment you will find. Some regions allow you to light a fire only in designated fire pits, while others do not permit it at all due to wildfire risk.
In the US, there have been over 61,000 wildfires per year on average, affecting 7.4 million acres each year. It is therefore important to follow local guidelines to avoid putting you, others, wildlife and the environment at risk. Keep the fire away from nearby debris, and make sure it doesn’t grow too big. A container of water can be used to quickly put out a fire that has gotten out of hand.
Wild Animals
Wild animals can pose a problem when camping unless you’re well-prepared and have the right equipment. You are visiting their home, and they have just as much (if not even more!) right to be there. Check out local guidance before you set out to see what creatures you are likely to encounter and if you need to pack items like Bear Spray, animal-resistant food storage containers. Before you go, you can check out the local information to find out what animals you may encounter. You might need items such as Bear Spray and animal-resistant food storage containers or a cool cooler.
Communication
It’s a good idea to share your rough route plan before you leave for the wilderness with someone who will be staying behind in case anything goes wrong. No one will know where you are if you don’t check in when you return. If you are worried about your GPS or phone running out of power, take a battery pack. Also, a map and compass.
Emergency Supplies
Take enough water and food to last you the entire trip. Do not forget to take enough water with you to hydrate yourself after a day of hiking. Your health and strength will suffer if you don’t. You should also always carry a First-Aid Kit. Small ailments can quickly escalate on the trail, and your trip may be cut short.
Other Essentials
As they say, bad weather is only bad clothes! Take waterproofs, layers and a hat, either woolly or sun-protective, depending on the season. Also, spares for if you forget your step and get soaked up to your knees! You should also take a flashlight. While you may be able to see well in the daylight, the pitch-black of the backcountry can make it difficult for your eyes.
Tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, pots and pans, flasks, charging stations, spare clothes (including a torch), cooking stoves, lighters, strong boxes, toothpaste & pastes, eco-dishwashing liquids, soaps & shampoos, rubbish bags, camping chairs, tables, and hats.
Campsites in the Northeast of America
Camping is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Northeast. There are many beautiful hiking trails and State Parks, as well as unspoiled National Forests. The Northeastern States are best camped in the summer. Temperatures and weather can be unpredictable the rest of the year, and winter can be bitter. Take a look at the top states for camping in the Northeast.
New York
New York State offers a wide variety of camping opportunities, including State Parks, campgrounds and hiking trails. There are also fishing spots, swimming areas, tent sites, RV campsites, etc. The Empire State has some top destinations that are well worth visiting.
Adirondack Region
Explore the thousands of miles of hiking and canoeing trails in New York State.
Allegany Region
Camping in the countryside is a great way to enjoy wildlife, lakes, trails, and streams.
Catskill Park
Yellowstone National Park is the largest park in the West.
Central Region
Enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet while overlooking the Great Lakes or lush valleys.
Taconic Region
You’ll find plenty to do in the state parks and on well-trodden trails. You can set up a base camp, nd then hike on the marked trails. For the more adventurous, you can take your UNA tree tent with you and carry it in your backpack!
Long Island
You’ll find a variety of well-established recreation sites along the sandy beach with all the amenities you could need. These include picnic tables, RV camping spots and cabins.
Thousand Islands Region
Discover one of many waterside parks with private campgrounds, golf and mountain biking, as well as a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
Genesee Region
Canoeing and camping on the waterside are perfect ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Niagara
We’re being honest, who doesn’t have a trip to Niagara Falls on their bucket list? It’s a breathtaking sight, surrounded by rivers, lakes, and private campgrounds where you can camp in yurts or cabins, go fishing, and hike.
Saratoga Region
There are many family-friendly activities, such as horseback rides, wagon rides and biking.
Albany
Albany is the capital of New York State. Six nature-based camping areas are located in the City of Albany’s coastal reserves. Cape Riche is the only camping area that charges a fee. The permit will not be required.
Pennsylvania has 124 state parks with more than 300,000 acres to explore. The high season in Pennsylvania is summer, when the weather is best. It’s your choice whether you want to risk bad weather for the guarantee of space and peace on the campgrounds. Always pack for all weather and check the forecasts before your departure date to know what you can expect.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts, the largest state in New England, offers a wide range of camping options, including campgrounds, resorts, hiking trails, and state parks. The camping season begins in mid-April and continues until mid-October.
There is something here for everyone. From the Central Streams, Plains, and Gentle Hills, to the Coastal Bays, and Mountains in the West – there’s something for everyone. Mount Greylock, the Taconic Mountains and the 1500-mile coastline are all favourites. ).
There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to see Black Bears, Bobcats and Coyotes (but please keep a safe distance). For tree lovers, there is no better place to enjoy the vibrant colours of Fall leaves.
Campsite in the South West of America
Camping enthusiasts will find the Southwest a captivating place, where unique deserts and hot springs will tempt them from all over the world. The Southwest can be challenging due to the winds, temperature changes between day and night, and the presence of wildlife like snakes and alligators.
Texas
The Lone Star State is home to big food and even bigger dreams. It’s also an excellent place to go camping! There are a lot of options for camping in this southern state, from State Parks to wild camping in the wilderness. 84 parks cover 640,000 acres. Some highlights to start with are Colorado Bend and Davis MMountains
Lake Travis, Inks Lake, and Lake Somerville are just a few of the many water-based campgrounds that can be found in this area. Backcountry camping is popular in the Texas Hill Country, where there are many dispersed campsites. This area is ideal for practising primitive camping skills and bushcraft.
Camping in the West of America
West Coast road trips are a great way to discover Nature’s best offerings, from arid deserts to seemingly endless forests. There are many things to do for campers in this region. Top spots along the West Coast:
Oregon
Cascade Lakes is a place of interest with world-class scenery that will inspire even the most experienced travellers. Mount Hoo and its surrounding forests are unparalleled in their magnificence. You will be welcomed with a carpet that stretches to the horizon. Smith Rock has some of the most spectacular climbing trails, and there are trails for every hiker level from beginner to expert. Crater Lake National Park, Deschutes National Forest and Willamette
The Beaver State is full of beautiful vistas. There are many places to visit, from the Oregon Coast to the National Forests to the pristine lakes. Oregon.gov is a good place to start your research. It has lots of useful information about National Forests, where you can set up a Tree Tent if you follow the instructions.
Utah
Utah offers a wide variety of landscapes to explore. In the north, you can find lakes and forests, while in the south, there are arid red-rock canyons. Five national parks offer free camping, dispersed campsites and established campgrounds. There’s a lot of choice. Utah has a lot to offer, from the breathtaking scenery in Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon and the Uinta Forest, to Salt Lake and its greatness. Capitol Reef National Park, Snow Canyon State Park, Goblin Valley, Bear Lake and the Wasatch mountains are all worth a visit (we know, because we lived there for a time! You can also watch the bison herds on Antelope Island.
Utah is home to many wild creatures, including bears, cougars, and rattlesnakes. Always check the type of wildlife that lives in your chosen area before heading there.
Camp in the Southeast of America
Many of the Southeast states listed here have both beautiful beaches and mountainous terrains. Even the swamps have a beautiful look!
North Carolina
The Old North State has many state parks and bodies of water. It also boasts beautiful landscapes, a national seashore, and gorgeous landscapes. The Old North State is home to many hiking trails and dense backcountry where one can lose oneself (figuratively, of course, please take a map). The Appalachian Trail is 2,180+ miles long and a favourite of adventurous campers around the world. Cape Lookout offers salt marshes, the sound of the ocean, and unspoiled views of rugged mountains. National Parks has information about these and other locations. If North Carolina is on your list of destinations, this website will be a great place to begin.
Camp in the Midwest of America
There are many water-centric locations in the region, making it ideal for camping during dry, hot months. There are plenty of water-centric locations in the region, making it ideal for camping during dry, hot months, especially with multi-purpose tents.
Michigan
Lake Michigan offers a wide variety of campgrounds, from dunes and parks to lakes, forests, and forests. Sandy Shores is a must-see for its beautiful sandy beaches. Nearby, you can find local shops and grass pitches to pitch your tent. If you like, you can also rent cabins right on the beach. Weko Beach Campground lies on the southeast shore of Lake Michigan.
The campground is an hour away from the nearest hotels and stores, making it quite remote. Captain Mike Fun Park, which is nearby and offers a variety of activities and facilities to both children and adults, is a great place for families. St. Ignace Campground lies at the Straits of Mackinac – the intersection of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. The lake and surrounding hills can be seen from the tents and lodging options.
The Porcupine Mountains caters to the most seasoned campers. For those brave enough to climb the Summit Peak, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding forest and countryside. Pomeroy Lake is one of the many campgrounds in this area. Others include Pine Mink, Pine Mink Lake, Wolf, and Raccoon.
Captain John Langland Park can be found in Onekam, a village with beautiful beaches and a wwwell-organisedommunityThee The area is ideal for campers with all levels of experience since there are a few nearby stores and resorts if you forget something important.
Florida
Florida has a lot of camping spots, and it is a very popular destination. You’ll never be short of things to do or places to visit with 175 State Parks and 11 National Parks. The hardest part will be narrowing down the options. Ginnie Spring is one of many. If you are looking at camping sites, keep in mind that some may require reservations. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.
How to get the most from your American camping trip
Here’s our quick roundup of some of the best places to camp in the USA. This is by no means a complete list. There are so many other options available to you in this amazing landscape. Please always treat the outdoors with respect and do it safely. Please leave no trace and, above all, appreciate our natural world by leaving the least amount of footprint possible. You won’t regret taking a tree tent with you!
