Top Camping Destinations in Every U.S. State

Numerous studies have found benefits to spending time outdoors: better concentration, elevated mood, even faster healing, and improved sleep patterns. Camping isn’t merely a remedy for urban angst and anxiety; it’s also a joyful experience—an opportunity to go to bed early, gaze at the stars, and enjoy messy s’mores roasted over an open flame.

If you’re looking for a reason to pull out your headlamp or hit the road in your RV, every state in the U.S. features exceptional landscapes where you can spend the night. From remote beaches accessible only by boat to rugged canyons explored best by canoe, here are some of the finest camping spots in every state.

Alabama — Outpost at Gulf State Park

Glamping meets the backcountry at Gulf State Park’s three walk-in Outpost sites, where canvas tents set on the sand look like something pulled from a wanderlust Pinterest board. Each site features four beds, an outdoor sink, a port-a-potty, a fire pit, and, perhaps most importantly, peace and privacy.

Alaska — Bartlett Cove Campground, Glacier Bay National Park

In this state rich with natural beauty, Glacier Bay is a marvel featuring lofty peaks, humpback whales, 700 miles of coastline, and blue-tinged glaciers calving directly into the sea. Located within a temperate rainforest, the only campground in the park at Bartlett Cove is stunningly green (though a bit damp) and serves as a convenient starting point for paddling trips or boat tours.

Arizona — Havasupai Campground, Havasupai Reservation

Reaching Havasupai presents a challenge, as permits are snatched up almost instantly, and even if you’re lucky enough to obtain one, you face a challenging 10-mile trek from the rim to this rustic campground beside Havasu Creek. However, the journey rewards you with a series of gushing waterfalls and natural pools in astonishing shades of robin’s egg blue.

Arkansas — Buffalo National River

America’s first national river flows 135 miles through the Ozark Mountains, rushing over rapids, forming tranquil pools, and passing rugged bluffs topped with lush emerald forests. Plan a float trip to absorb the scenery leisurely and don’t forget to stop for hikes to explore Lost Valley’s caverns or visit the 200-foot Hemmed-in Hollow Falls.

California — Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Californians have an abundance of jaw-dropping campsites, yet securing one of the two spots inside this state park is considered a camping achievement along the coast. At Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, take the aptly named Waterfall Overlook Trail to its end point for breathtaking views of McWay Falls, an 80-foot cascade spilling from a granite cliff into the shimmering Pacific surf.

Colorado — Piñon Flats Campground, Great Sand Dunes National Park

Mountains of sand might not be the first image that comes to mind when thinking of Colorado, but the nation’s largest dunes reach over 700 feet in height within this popular park. Featuring 88 sites available in two loops for tents or RVs, your best option may be to obtain a free backcountry permit and discover your own serene spot in the 30-mile dune field for an unforgettable night under countless stars.

Connecticut — White Memorial Conservation Center

This non-profit wildlife refuge focuses on environmental education, allowing visitors to pause and appreciate the surrounding wilderness. Explore 40 miles of trails, paddle on one of the 10 ponds, navigate the orienteering course, or check out the onsite museum. Alternatively, consider antiquing nearby in Woodbury or enjoy a tasting at a local vineyard.

Delaware — Cape Henlopen State Park

With soft dunes, ocean breezes, lighthouse views, and one of Delaware’s best beaches just steps from your tent, Cape Henlopen is a perfect spot to relax. Spend the day soaking up the sun or venture into historic Lewes for delicious barbecue from Savannah’s Deli, accompanied by cones of fresh ice cream from Hopkins Farm.

Florida — Cayo Costa State Park

This barrier island offers a true escape, as it is accessible only by boat and features more than nine miles of pristine beach. Spend your days kayaking along the coast, biking inland trails, or searching for manatees and dolphins. At dusk, wave goodbye to day-trippers and settle into one of the 30 primitive campsites, where the soothing rhythm of the surf will lull you to sleep.

Georgia — Cloudland State Park

Perched above a thousand-foot gulch on Lookout Mountain’s western flank, this elevated park provides panoramic views worthy of its enchanting name. Below, a steep trail descends into the canyon, passing dramatic waterfalls and mysterious caves waiting for adventurous visitors. On the rim, choose from various camping options, including 40-foot sites with electric hookups, secluded walk-in places, charming yurts, and well-equipped cabins.

Hawaii — Malaekahana Beach Campground

Fall asleep to the soothing sound of the ocean at this beachfront camping paradise on Oahu’s north shore, where your tent or cabin occupies ideal beachfront real estate to rival any resort. Rent kayaks, paddle boards, and bikes on-site, or take a surf class for some wave-catching practice. When hunger strikes, a food truck offers mouthwatering options like kalua pork omelets and fish tacos.

Idaho — Point Campground

This cozy campground in the Sawtooth National Forest exemplifies camping perfection: sites framed by towering pines, a pristine lake reflecting the mountains, and countless miles of trails just waiting for exploration. Lace up your hiking boots, fish for your evening meal, or simply lounge in a camp chair with delightful s’mores nearby.

Illinois — Starved Rock State Park Campground

Less than two hours from Chicago lies a stunning landscape of sandstone canyons and waterfalls that contrasts strikingly with the Illinois prairie. Visit in spring when the cascades are at their most impressive, or during winter for eagle watching and icefalls. The campground features electric hookups, and when you’re ready for a break from outdoor adventures, the historic lodge built by the Civilian Conservation Corps offers a fantastic Sunday brunch.

Indiana — Brown County State Park

Thrill-seekers can race down 30 miles of mountain bike trails, consistently rated the best in the state. Families can hike through picturesque wooded hills, and then enjoy the lodge’s indoor waterpark. Photographers can climb a 90-foot fire tower for breathtaking views, while campers can find their perfect site among more than 400 available posts in Brown County.

Iowa — Maquoketa Caves State Park

Leave your claustrophobia at the entrance to this remarkable park, where visitors strap on headlamps and embrace their inner Indiana Jones as they explore a series of underground enclosures ranging from cavernous expanses to tight crawling tunnels. When the sun beckons, you’ll find spring wildflowers, natural bridges, and a small wooded campground with modern facilities.

Kansas — Wilson State Park

Campers at this central Kansas state park awaken to stunning lakeside views along a 9,000-acre reservoir, followed by adventurous days spent navigating the shoreline in kayaks or cycling along the 25-mile bike trail.

Kentucky — Daniel Boone National Forest

Spanning 700,000 acres across 21 counties, choosing where to camp inside this forest named for frontier folk hero Daniel Boone can be daunting. Climbers should head to Red River Gorge’s Koomer Ridge Campground for access to sturdy sandstone cliffs (along with a hybrid pizzeria and gear shop, Miguel’s). If waterfalls excite you, plan your trip to Cumberland Falls Campground during a full moon when the 125-foot-wide sheet of water creates a rare moonbow phenomenon.

Louisiana — Lake Bistineau State Park

For an authentic Southern experience, Lake Bistineau invites adventure. Stands of tupelo trees and bald cypress laden with Spanish moss offer classic views, whether from air-conditioned cabins or improved campsites. Delve deeper into the park on foot or by boat while casting a line into crystal-clear waters.

Maine — Flood’s Cove

On your journey to Friendship, Maine, pick up provisions in Portland before heading to Ames Island, where a local family provides secluded campsites surrounded by stunning sights. Rent a kayak or bring your own, while keeping an eye out for puffins and harbor seals as you approach the rugged coast with minimal amenities.

Maryland — Assateague State Park

Set up your tent or pull your RV into one of over 300 sites just above the dunes on this barrier island. Beyond the two miles of Atlantic-facing beach, the park’s famous wild ponies often pay visits to pose for photos or take leisurely naps in the sand.

Massachusetts — Boston Harbor Islands

On one side, the glittering Boston skyline, and on the other, the vast Atlantic Ocean. Campers are caught between both worlds on four ferry-serviced islands in Boston Harbor, where visitors can hike (Peddock’s Island), explore crumbling settlements (Bumpkin Island), lounge on the beach (Lovell’s Island), and simply escape the hustle and bustle (Grape Island). While summer days draw crowds, evenings bring a serene solitude.

Michigan — Chapel Beach, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Along the stunning coast of Lake Superior, this iconic landscape featuring sandstone cliffs and turquoise waters resembles New Zealand more than the Midwest. Hike the three miles to reach this rustic campground, passing breathtaking waterfalls and an inland lake along the way, ultimately leading to a perfect crescent of golden sand.

Minnesota — Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Stretching nearly 150 miles along the Canadian border within the Superior National Forest, this glacier-carved water world comprises thousands of lakes and streams, featuring over 1,200 miles of canoe routes. Paddle past waterfalls, rocky islands, and the occasional moose swimming, then set up camp at one of over 2,000 designated sites, where the million-acre wilderness becomes your stunning backyard.

Mississippi — Davis Bayou Campground, Gulf Islands National Seashore

Come for the bayous, stay for the beach. Visitors may spot armadillos and alligators while exploring via nature trail or paddle trips. Additionally, take a boat ride to secluded barrier islands featuring sun, sand, and minimal distractions. When civilization calls, Ocean Springs has numerous art galleries and delicious pulled pork at the Shed.

Missouri — Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Situated on the East Fork of the Black River, the shut-ins—an Ozark term for confined, rocky riverbed—serve as natural water parks, where kids can shoot down small rapids and splash in crystal-clear pools. With various campsite options, from walk-ins to electric hookups, you’ll find an ideal spot for your rig, regardless of what you have.

Montana — Many Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park

This is the Glacier National Park of your dreams: thick forest, jagged peaks, and mirror-like lakes that reflect the beauty of the environment. This high-elevation campground offers a head start on some of the best day hikes in the park, permitting you to reach Grinnell Lake or Ptarmigan Falls while there’s still daylight.

Nebraska — Fort Robinson State Park

At this historic park in northwest Nebraska, rocky buttes rise above grassy plains, providing a backdrop to views of herds of bison and longhorns as they are explored on foot, by horse, mountain bike, kayak, inner tube, or jeep. At the lodge, the playhouse hosts eight performances a week during summer, with an old-fashioned rodeo occurring every Thursday for public enjoyment.

Nevada — Arch Rock Campground, Valley of Fire State Park

Set your tent amid Aztec red sandstone created by ancient dunes dating back to the time of dinosaurs. The campground’s namesake arch is a significant attraction, while petrified trees, narrow slot canyons, and ancient petroglyphs also abound, particularly at Valley of Fire’s secondary campground, which is better suited for RVs and trailers.

New Hampshire — Pawtuckaway State Park

Make your wooded campsite at Pawtuckaway Lake your basecamp for discovering over 5,000 acres of oak and hemlock forest interspersed with hiking and mountain biking trails. Massive boulders deposited by glaciers make this a prime destination for bouldering, while wildlife watchers should bring binoculars to spot beavers, deer, and blue herons in the expansive marsh.

New Jersey — Worthington State Forest Campground, Delaware Water Gap

Within the Delaware Water Gap’s 70,000 acres, nature enthusiasts uncover a world of meandering waters, ancient lakes, soaring eagles, and panoramic mountain vistas. Be sure to witness the gap itself, a notch carved into the Kittatinny Ridge by persistent waters.

New Mexico — Gallo Campground at Chaco Canyon

By day, delve into the UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as a cultural hub for the Pueblo people over a millennium ago. At night, gaze upon the sky. A designated dark skies park, Chaco’s observatory lies about one mile from the campground and hosts guided telescope viewings several nights a week.

New York — Camp Orenda

Adult summer camp at this intimate Adirondacks retreat offers glamping in cozy canvas cabins and communal meals prepared in an outdoor kitchen. Guests can borrow kayaks, canoes, or mountain bikes at no cost or hit the trails leading to 250-foot OK Slip Falls or the Snowy Mountain fire tower for stunning hilltop views.

North Dakota — Juniper Campground, Theodore Roosevelt National Park

While not as impressive as South Dakota’s Martian badlands, the rocky, river-carved formations of North Dakota’s badlands are still extraordinary. Settle into a shaded site along the Little Missouri River and prepare for possible encounters with bison traveling past your tent or trailer.

North Carolina — Big Creek Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

In 2016, the Great Smoky Mountains attracted over 11 million visitors—almost double the 5.9 million who traveled to the Grand Canyon. The allure is clear: forested ridges cloaked in purple mist, over 800 miles of hiking trails, and the highest biodiversity of any U.S. National Park. Escape the crowds at this tent-only campground and hit Big Creek Trail to Mouse Creek Falls, known for its picturesque swimming spots and breathtaking spring wildflowers.

Ohio — Hocking Hills State Park

Vast caves, narrow gorges, and dramatic waterfalls that cascade to earth below invite exploration. Traverse the trails within this Ohio park while snapping photos at every opportunity, and when the stone stairs leading to the high rock house feel insufficiently thrilling, consider booking a zip line tour and soaring through the canopy.

Oklahoma — Chickasaw National Recreation Area

Famed for their therapeutic qualities, the mineral-rich, cold-water springs at Chickasaw continue to lure visitors eager to soak in sculpted rock pools nestled beneath trees. When not enjoying their time in the waters, explore the area on foot and observe grazing bison, or launch a boat into Lake Arbuckle for a fun day on the water.

Oregon — Cape Blanco State Park

As the westernmost point in the state, Cape Blanco juts out into the Pacific like a thumb, with a 147-year-old lighthouse perched atop its cliffs, warning ships away from the shore. The park also features breathtaking views of the Oregon Coast, especially when the sunset bathes the landscape in beautiful rosy hues.

Pennsylvania — Cherry Springs State Park

Nestled atop a mountain surrounded by lush forest in northern Pennsylvania, this park feels remote, which is precisely the point. The features serve to block artificial light, allowing overnight campers to enjoy stargazing on the Astronomy Observation Field, where the splendid Milky Way fills the sky in all its celestial glory.

Rhode Island — East Beach, Charlestown

Set among the dunes on a three-mile barrier beach, this location is a rare find: an undeveloped beachfront campground for RVs only—specifically four-wheel-drive RVs. With twenty sites situated on the sand, guests enjoy sun, sea, and little else, though that’s usually more than enough when the view is this exquisite.

South Carolina — Edisto River Treehouses

Begin a river canoe adventure 13 miles upstream from a trio of off-the-grid treehouses complete with propane grills, tiki torches, and outhouses. Relax in a hammock, prepare delicious s’mores under the moonlight, and get ready for your 10-mile paddle through a private wildlife refuge.

South Dakota — Blue Bell Campground, Custer State Park

Spot pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, elk, burros, and bison in this scenic state park, where the herd numbers about 1,300, and the annual roundup attracts many spectators. Book a guided trail ride or a bison safari, then return to Blue Bell Campground in time for a chuck-wagon cookout or dinner at the onsite restaurant.

Tennessee — Elkmont Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

This tent- and RV-friendly campground, located just 25 minutes from Gatlinburg, is the most popular within Great Smoky Mountains National Park for good reason. Wooded sites attract visitors passionate about hiking nearby trails or tubing down the Little River, which flows directly through the campground. Plan ahead to secure a spot during the annual firefly event when thousands of glowing insects illuminate the night.

Texas — Chisos Basin Campground, Big Bend National Park

This sprawling 800,000-acre park includes an array of landscapes, including the Chisos Mountains, Chihuahua Desert, and Rio Grande River. Begin your morning with a challenging hike on the Lost Mine Trail, then cross the river into Boquillas, Mexico, for some delicious tacos and refreshing beers. End your day under the stars at this high-altitude campground encircled by stunning cliffs.

Utah — Devils Garden Campground, Arches National Park

Crafted over millions of years, this spectacular natural sculpture garden in Moab is filled with geological masterpieces that appear to challenge the laws of gravity. Scattered among impressive rock formations and juniper bushes, the park’s 50 campsites offer shade, privacy, and incredible views of scenic snow-capped mountains and the glittering night sky.

Vermont — Smuggler’s Notch State Park Campground

Situated in Vermont’s verdant Green Mountains, Smuggler’s Notch historically functioned as an illegal trade route, an escape for runaway slaves, and a bootlegging thoroughfare during Prohibition. Nowadays, it’s a woodland haven where adventure-seekers traverse rugged trails or brewery hop around Stowe before settling into wooden lean-tos with cozy stone fireplaces created by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Virginia — Big Meadow Campground, Shenandoah National Park

Stay within the heart of Shenandoah National Park at this well-loved campground, where visitors regularly encounter black bears and deer. The area is also home to three waterfalls and provides easy access to sections of the Appalachian Trail. Just a stone’s throw from your tent or RV, the Big Meadows Lodge offers ranger-led twilight hikes, astronomy programs, and a full-service restaurant along with a bar.

Washington — Second Beach, Olympic National Park

Regarded as the crown jewel along the park’s western shore, campers set their tents directly on this Pacific Northwest beach. Build a driftwood bonfire, capture stunning sunsets over the sea stacks, and immerse yourself in the magic of this enchanting location.

West Virginia — Thorny Mountain Fire Tower, Seneca State Forest

This 53-foot-tall steel tower, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, now houses one of West Virginia’s most unique accommodations: a cozy 14-by-14-foot cabin offering 360-degree views of the Seneca State Forest.

Wisconsin — Apostle Islands National Seashore

Access these 21 islands in Lake Superior by water taxi or kayak, where erosion has transformed red sandstone cliffs into mesmerizing sea caves. Most islands feature primitive campsites, so gather your dry bags and keep your eyes peeled for the enchanting aurora borealis when conditions are right.

Wyoming — Jenny Lake Campground, Grand Teton National Park

Serrated peaks create a dramatic backdrop to a valley adorned with lakes, where bison, elk, and moose roam. Set camp among the trees at tent-only Jenny Lake, then embark on a hike through the glacier-carved Cascade Canyon or hop on a raft for a memorable journey down the Snake River. For a touch of elegance, the nearby lodge serves a delectable five-course dinner that’s not to be missed; reservations (and showers) are required.

The Grand Tetons will also be a prime viewing area for the total solar eclipse this August.