Camping is an increasingly popular activity. 77 million households have someone who camps.
The people that go camping are a diverse group but what they all share is a wonderful way of connecting with nature and enjoying an outdoor lifestyle.
There’s nothing better than finding the perfect campsite that allows you to enjoy the great outdoors. Check out the best places to camp in the U.S. and plan your next trip!
Be Prepared
Whether the words “be prepared” remind you of the Scout Motto or the song from Lion King, it’s something you should think about when you go camping. Do some simple preparation to make sure your camping trip is both fun and safe.
Make sure you know how to handle the likely weather conditions. You need to know some basic fire safety and first aid skills. If you intend to drive or walk into the wilderness, you need some map reading and navigation skills so you always know where you are and how to get back home.
Wild places may have wild animals and you should know how to avoid problems with them. Whether you’re lightweight camping with minimal gear or truck camping in great style, you need to know how to use your equipment.
As a beginner camper, you can enjoy learning from the comfort of your home by some simple internet research. Try sites like Camping Forge for some tips. Do your homework and you’ll be prepared.
The Best Places to Camp
The variety of camping options reflects the fact that campers don’t all share the same taste in camping. For every camper who likes to get down and dirty with the simplest of equipment, there’s an up-market camper who needs somewhere to plug in their hairdryer and get an internet connection.
Shenandoah National Park
The Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a hiker’s dream.
It’s only a short drive from Washington D.C. but its forests, waterfalls, hills and wild beauty mean you can escape the City and re-connect with nature. There are four campgrounds and they’re open for three seasons and closed in winter.
Havasupai Reservation
The Havasupai campground in Arizona is exclusive to permit holders only. Get on the mailing list through their website and you may get a permit.
If you are lucky enough to get a permit, you can camp anywhere you like in the area of the campground along Havasu Creek, between the dramatic Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls.
Deep Creek Campground
Bryson City, North Carolina nestles in the Smoky Mountains. Despite its name, you are a long way from city life here.
This small town can be fully explored in 30 minutes, leaving you time for trout fishing in Deep Creek while the kids hunt for salamanders. The woodland trails take you past waterfalls and the occasional view across the mountains.
Daniel Boon National Forest
Carry on the legacy of the Kentucky frontiersman Daniel Boon in the Red River Gorge. The Koomer Ridge Campground offers forests, dramatic cliffs and the comfort of a pizzeria. Sometimes the novelty of campfire cooking wears off!
Go On, Try It
This guide on the best places to camp reflects some of the diverse camping options available. If you’re a beginner, try starting locally. See what excites you and try something more adventurous once you’ve mastered the basic camping skills.
Before you set out for the wilderness, here’s more camping advice.
