The summer months provide the perfect opportunity to escape the city and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, there are plenty of amazing destinations to choose from. From serene lakeside retreats to rugged mountain escapes, here are some of the best places to go camping this summer.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is a bucket-list destination for many outdoor enthusiasts, and for good reason. With towering granite cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and pristine wilderness, this park is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a multi-day backpacking trip, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Yosemite. There are 13 campgrounds in Yosemite that are open in the summer and offer a variety of camping options, from tent camping to RV sites.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
If you’re looking for a camping adventure with a bit of history, head to the Grand Canyon. This breathtaking chasm is over a mile deep and offers breathtaking views from the rim or from below the river. There are several campgrounds within the park, or you can venture outside the park for more remote camping options.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for any camper who loves towering peaks, crystal-clear streams, and alpine meadows. The park has over 300 miles of hiking trails and several campgrounds, so you’re sure to find a place to call home. Plus, the park is home to an array of wildlife, so you may spot some elk, bighorn sheep, or even a bear or two.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a beautiful coastal park that’s perfect for a summer camping trip. With miles of rugged coastline, towering mountains, and serene lakes, this park has something for everyone. Whether you want to hike the park’s famous Cadillac Mountain, paddle in the clear waters of Jordan Pond, or simply relax on the beach, you won’t be disappointed. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you can easily find a place to call home.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
If you’re looking for a camping trip that’s a bit closer to home, head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This beautiful park is the most visited in the country, and it’s easy to see why. With lush forests, rolling hills, and breathtaking mountain vistas, this park is a hiker’s paradise. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you’re sure to find a spot that fits your needs.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is known for its unique landscape of towering rock formations, rolling deserts, and vast stands of Joshua trees. Summer is the perfect time to visit this park, as the weather is warm and dry and the wildflowers are in bloom. There are several campgrounds within the park, many of which offer breathtaking views and easy access to popular hiking trails.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone is America’s first national park and boasts an incredible array of geological wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots. Summer is a great time to visit, as the weather is warm and the park’s iconic wildlife, such as grizzly bears, elk, and bison, are active. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you can easily find a place to pitch your tent.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is a diverse park that offers something for every type of camper. With miles of rugged coastline, towering mountains, and pristine rainforests, this park has it all. The summer months are a great time to visit, as the weather is mild and the park’s iconic wildlife is active. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you can easily find a place to call home.
Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park is a unique landscape that’s dotted with over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. Summer is the perfect time to visit this park, as the weather is warm and dry, and the park’s iconic formations are lit up by the sun. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you can easily find a place to pitch your tent.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful park that’s located just a few hours from Washington, D.C. With rolling hills, verdant forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas, this park is a hiker’s paradise. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you can easily find a spot that fits your needs.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a rugged and remote park that’s located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With soaring peaks, glaciers, and pristine wilderness, this park is a hiker’s paradise. The summer months are a great time to visit, as the weather is mild and the park’s iconic wildlife is active. There are several campgrounds within the park, so you can easily find a place to call home.
No matter where you choose to go camping this summer, make sure you come prepared. Bring a quality tent, a comfortable sleeping bag, and a sturdy backpack to help you carry all your gear. And, most importantly, remember to leave no trace and respect the natural environment. With a little planning and preparation, you’re sure to have a fantastic camping trip that you’ll remember for years to come.
