The Best Places to Go Camping in the U.S.

There’s nothing quite like sleeping under the stars, waking up to the sound of birdsong, and spending the day immersed in nature. With its diverse landscapes and protected wilderness, the United States offers some of the most breathtaking camping destinations in the world. Whether you’re seeking towering mountains, desert solitude, forested trails, or lakeside serenity, there’s a campsite waiting for you.

Here are some of the best places in the U.S. to pitch your tent, park your RV, or roll out your sleeping bag.

1. Yosemite National Park, California

Famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoias, Yosemite offers an unforgettable camping experience. From backcountry sites to family-friendly campgrounds like North Pines and Tuolumne Meadows, the park delivers stunning views and a deep connection to nature.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee & North Carolina

With lush forests, abundant wildlife, and mist-covered peaks, the Smokies offer a range of camping options. Whether you prefer developed campgrounds like Elkmont or remote backcountry camping along the Appalachian Trail, this park offers something for everyone.

3. Acadia National Park, Maine

For coastal charm and rugged beauty, Acadia is hard to beat. Campgrounds like Blackwoods and Seawall provide access to scenic hikes, rocky shorelines, and sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain.

4. Glacier National Park, Montana

Known as the "Crown of the Continent," Glacier National Park features alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain vistas. Popular spots like Many Glacier Campground offer wildlife sightings and access to iconic hikes like Grinnell Glacier.

5. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion's red rock canyons and sandstone cliffs create a surreal desert landscape perfect for camping and exploration. South and Watchman Campgrounds offer convenient access to the park's shuttle system and popular trails like Angels Landing.

6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Just a few hours from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah is a peaceful haven of hardwood forests and rolling hills. Campgrounds like Big Meadows offer proximity to Skyline Drive and plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing.

7. Olympic National Park, Washington

A haven for diverse ecosystems, Olympic includes rugged coastlines, temperate rainforests, and mountain ranges. Kalaloch and Hoh Campgrounds are among the most scenic, offering unforgettable views and a true Pacific Northwest experience.

8. Arches National Park, Utah

With over 2,000 natural stone arches, this unique landscape makes for a surreal camping experience. Devils Garden Campground is the only campground in the park, and spots fill fast—but the views are worth the effort.

9. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton’s jagged peaks and alpine lakes create a postcard-perfect camping setting. Jenny Lake and Colter Bay Village offer amazing views, access to hiking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.

10. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Otherworldly rock formations, rich fossil beds, and wide-open prairie make the Badlands a dream for campers and photographers alike. Sage Creek is a free, primitive campground for those looking to rough it with incredible views.

Tips for Planning Your Camping Trip

• Book early: Many of these parks fill months in advance, especially in peak season.

• Know the rules: Each park has specific regulations around fires, food storage, and backcountry permits.

• Pack smart: Conditions vary by region, so prepare for everything from cold nights to sudden rain.

Whether you're looking for solitude, family fun, or a serious hiking adventure, these U.S. camping destinations deliver nature at its best. From sea to summit, desert to forest, the perfect campsite is out there waiting for you.