The Best Camping Places In The United States
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The United States is absolutely swarming with camping spots you can head to, there is no going around that. And while for the experienced camper, that makes for a lovely list of options to choose from, some people struggle with picking the best destinations to visit.
If you are in that second category – we have got you covered. Below is a list of the best camping places in the United States, along with a few words on each of them that will hopefully make your decision a bit easier. All that is left for you is to get properly packed and prepared. If you are still searching for the right gear to camp on American ground, make sure to check the products at Hyke & Byke to enjoy a smooth camping trip.
Best Camping Places In The United States
1. Crater Lake, Oregon
We are well aware that many people will wonder what’s so cool about Oregon to make this a must-visit camping destination, but here’s a hint – it’s all in the name. Crater Lake is a sleeping volcano you can visit and camp at, and it is the USA’s deepest lake at almost 2,000 feet. And if the volcano itself was not enough of a magnificent view, you will also be happy to know that the lake is one of the cleanest bodies of water in the United States.
The area offers you two distinct camping locations – Lost Creek and Mazama. Lost Creek is only for tent camping, and if both have spots available, is also the destination we did recommend. It’s open from the beginning of July to the middle of October, which gives you plenty of time to visit.
On the other hand, Mazama is located a few miles from Rim Village, and aside from having plenty of tent camping spots, it also gives you room for RVs, including electric hookups that you won’t find at Lost Creek. Mazama is open from the beginning of June, up until the beginning of October.
You can also grab a permit for backcountry camping if you want, and that is an option from the middle of July, to the beginning of September. The time frame might seem a bit limited, but the reason for that is the high altitude, so make sure you call and make reservations if you’re keen on visiting.
2. Yosemite, California
You can’t talk about camping and not bring up Yosemite, one of the world’s most beautiful camping destinations. With almost 94% of it being untouched wilderness, with no human-built infrastructure of any kind, which makes it some of the most stunning landscapes out there. It is the perfect place for people who want to clear their minds and spend some time away from crowded city areas.
Yosemite is home to thirteen campgrounds that you can visit, and each of them has its own beauty. Whichever one you visit, you won’t regret it, and they’re all remarkably well organized. A thing to note is that reservations are an absolute must when you consider the popularity of the national park, so make sure you call the park’s info line and inquire about availability.
You should also be careful in terms of when you visit the national park. Many of the available roads are closed during the winter, and Yosemite isn’t a place you want to get stuck in. When you are calling to check which roads are open, you will also be able to get info on how many people you can expect in the campgrounds you are considering visiting.
All things considered, if you don’t mind sharing a campsite with more people (or you want to head out into the wild), Yosemite is a brilliant idea for a camping trip.
3. Joshua Tree, California
Yes, another destination in California, but Joshua Tree is one you don’t want to miss out on. The national park covers a massive surface of over 800 thousand acres, and contrary to popular belief, there’s a lot more than an opportunity to get sand in your shoes if you head to the park.
What makes the national park unique is the fact that it spreads across an intersection between two incredibly different ecosystems. The Mojave Desert is on one side, the ecosystem that’s home to the Joshua tree after which the national park was named, with the warm Colorado Desert on the other side. It’s an interesting phenomenon, and one you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.
The national park isn’t just beautiful for camping, but it’s also a lovely place for rock climbing and hiking enthusiasts – there are at least 10 peaks at over 5,000 feet of elevation. This also makes Joshua Tree a great place for elevation camping, or you can set up camp right next to one of the popular rock climbing places and have a bit of fun. In terms of campgrounds, there are nine to choose from, and calling ahead for a reservation is a good idea if you want to be sure you’ll have a spot. There is the opportunity for backcountry camping if that’s your thing – grab a permit and you’ll be on your way.
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Crater lake looks stunning! We have an invite to stay with friends in Oregon, we may just go one day 😊
I am sure you will have an amazing time there! 🙂