I absolutely adore solo camping and have been doing it for 4 years. I started out camping in my tiny vintage camper, then moved on to a new 21-foot travel trailer. This year I am going back to vintage after the renovation of my 1978 Airstream Argosy Minuet is completed. 

Even though I enjoy camping in a camper, I want to share a little secret: I love solo camping in my 2008 Toyota 4Runner!

Car camping came from my need to travel as comfortably as possible while staying within my budget, on a cross-country trip in 2021. I had signed up for a writing workshop in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and to save money, I decided to road trip it from my home in Wisconsin, camping along the way. 

I wanted to save money by not staying in hotels, but I was nervous about pulling my camper so far by myself. So I turned my Toyota 4Runner into my camper. Since this was new territory for me, I devoured all the information about car camping I could. Videos, blog posts, forums, you name it; I checked them all out. I made window covers and lists of the necessities I would need. It helped that I had most of what I needed already. 

Once I was set and had outfitted my car for my road trip, I couldn’t wait to see how it would all go. 

During that trip, it took several shots at rearranging things till I had a comfortable, accessible, and (somewhat) uncluttered space. I became an obsessive fan ‌of car camping. There was just something about fitting everything I needed into my vehicle and the ease of movement that I fell in love with. 

I have made my car a temporary home on wheels on more long-distance trips since that first experience and want to share the reasons I love car camping as a solo traveler. Hopefully, I will inspire you to try it.

1. I Feel Safe

Feeling safe while solo traveling is the most important thing. I love how safe I feel sleeping in my car at night. I put the covers I made for my windows up, lock the doors, and have created a safe cocoon for myself. While I’ve never encountered a problem, knowing that all I need to do if I feel uncomfortable at a place I am parked is jump in the front seat and leave.

If I am out in the wilderness, there’s more protection between myself and a curious bear that may wander into my campsite. 

Pro Tip: I always make sure to have a personal alarm handy when I travel solo. I carry it when I hike and anywhere I am by myself. I have it by my side at night when I am in my car. 

2. It’s A Great Way To Try Solo Travel

I tell women all the time that if they would like to travel solo but are too fearful of it, they should just go slow. Car camping is actually one of those “dip your toe in” ways to try solo travel. Rocking an overnighter at a local campground is a perfect gateway to build your confidence. You’re close to home yet practicing your independence. You get to feel comfortable being alone. Plus, you don’t have to invest a lot of money in the experience. 

3. I Save Money

Car camping is perfect for the budget-conscious solo traveler. If I can save money not paying for hotels (and do more free things), I have more left over to go other places, even with my limited travel budget.

Initially, there is a cost to getting the gear you need. A good sleeping pad or mattress is your biggest cost. I use a 4-inch queen mattress topper that I cut in half. I cover that with a set of twin sheets that were left over from when my daughter graduated from college. If you already camp, you probably have everything you need. 

Once you’re set up, it’s just the cost of a campground. I usually pay a max of $40 a night at a campground. You can even go cheaper. There are many options for free camping on public-use land, or in overnight parking lots and truck stops. All it takes is a little advanced planning. 

Then there’s gas milage. Unfortunately, my 4Runner isn’t the greatest on gas, and when I am pulling my travel trailer, it is even more dismal. 

Pro Tip: Making your own window coverings is fairly easy. I make templates from sheets of paper taped together first, then I use cardboard to cut out the actual window coverings. I make them ‌bigger so they will sit in the window. I take cloth and tape (or glue) tabs to each one for removal. Once I finish cutting and make sure they fit, I spray paint them black. You can find many videos on YouTube for more ways to make your own.

4. Protection From The Elements

We all know how miserable it can be tent camping in the rain. The probability of your gear getting wet is high. It’s uncomfortable. Depending on the season, it can be cold. I’d much rather have that hard barrier between myself and the weather. If it’s chilly, I bring along a small ceramic heater and I stay toasty warm. Sure, I may feel a little confined in that small space when the weather is less than ideal, but it sure is cozy.

5. A Sense Of Freedom

This is huge for me. I love my freedom. Car camping offers so much ease. I take about 5 minutes to pack up and leave. I can fit into any campsite. Camping state and county parks are my favorite, and just having my vehicle, I can take advantage of tent and non-electric sites. As long as you can drive into your site, your fine.

Freedom means you can park and camp overnight just about anywhere. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) spots, parking lots, casinos, Cracker Barrel restaurants, and truck stops. With a little planning, or with an app like Campendium, you can find places to camp for free.

6. It’s Simple

While car camping requires some advanced planning initially — think bedding, cooking tools, and clothing storage — once you have your gear and a system down, there is nothing simpler than jumping in your car and hitting the road. It’s amazing how little you actually need to be comfortable. Honestly, I am not a “no maintenance” gal. I like my creature comforts, my makeup, and my hair care products, but I manage well.

The same goes for food. I don’t cook elaborate meals when I’m car camping. I carried a one-burner propane stove and one kettle. My go-to meal is soup along with a small cooler filled with fresh veggies, some snacks, and water. Think minimalistic, and you’ll be fine.

Pro Tip: Less is more when you are car camping. For cooking, I carry one medium saucepan, a one-burner propane stove, a collapsible dish pan, a large spoon, a metal spatula, tongs, tin foil, a French press for coffee, a can opener, one plate, a bowl, and a utensil set. It all fits neatly in a tote. 

7. It’s Cozy

When I’m car camping on my solo adventures, I love crawling in the back of my 4Runner, curling up with a great book and my journal, and gazing at the stars through my back window. I have a string of battery-operated fairy lights I hang up above me. Toss in some cute decorative pillows, and my favorite soft comforter just for car camping, and I have a tiny oasis, a space of cozy solitude. There’s not much that makes me happier.

I found I enjoyed car camping so much that I just purchased an SUV tent that attaches to the back of my 4Runner. I’m excited to use it when I want to camp more than a couple nights in my car. It will give me more room and is standalone, so when I leave for a day of exploring, there’s evidence that my campsite is occupied. 

Car camping may not be for everyone, but it’s a way of travel that I love, and it suits solo travelers perfectly. The simplicity, ease of travel, and budget-friendliness appeal to me most of all. If you’re looking to dip your toe into the world of solo travel, car camping may be the perfect entry point for you. Even if you’ve been solo traveling for a while, it’s worth a try. Who knows? You may find you love it as much as I do.

Fascinated by the possibilities of car camping? You’ll want to read up on boondocking, too.

The highway to USA Raft Adventure Resort weaves through compact, comforting mountains. The forested Blue Ridges here do not tower or overwhelm. Under wide skies, they silently embrace you in a proud part of Appalachia.

I visited the Erwin, Tennessee, resort in the burgeoning weeks of early fall, and the tree-coated peaks were full with the color to come. Some patches had burst into yellow and orange, but most were still making their final foliage preparations, and you could feel the anticipation in each local’s upward glances from their car windows.

Allie Bynum beamed about it all on our way in. A local herself, Bynum started as a raft guide with the resort in 2015; today, she’s its director of communications and group sales. She beamed about Erwin, the town near Tennessee’s Tri-Cities that has started drawing in visitors from Asheville — yes, the Asheville, North Carolina, that attracts millions of tourists annually itself — for its mix of quietude and adventure. She especially beamed about USA Raft, which began as a raft guide service in 1972 but has surged into a rustic resort, campground, and adventure service in the last few years.

We drove through their new Red Banks Outpost campground and greeted the people who built it — and continue to expand it through the sweat of their brows. We got back on the road and drove just upriver to the resort, a smiling string of riverside accommodations under ample tree cover, and talked with team members proud of what the resort has become.

Outdoor enthusiasts can’t get enough of USA Raft Adventure Resort. As the name suggests, it offers outdoor enthusiasts rafting and paddling adventures on the rushing Nolichucky River — but it also offers lovely lodging, love-infused local cuisine, and a downright cool bar right along the river. It provides visitors with explorations through a nearly unblemished cave, quick access to hiking trails, and perhaps most of all, a cozy refuge in a proud community.

Note: I was hosted by the resort, but all opinions are my own — as much as they possibly can be from someone who slept in the mountains for free.

1. Cabins, Glamping, And Tent Camping

My place was at the far end of USA Raft Adventure Resort, which was nice — it allowed me to mosey through the whole property on my way in. 

First, I checked out the camp store, an impressive and inviting wooden structure with a gift shop, a wood-burning stove, Wi-Fi, and a public kitchen. I walked the gravel trail past cabins, lofts, geodesic domes, and Airstreams. Next came a food truck and the oasis of an outdoor bar, buzzing with afternoon activity. Both were so good that they deserve (and will get) their own section. Then I slunk off for an afternoon nap.

Indoor Accommodations

I slept in a bungalow called Poplar. Poplar and its two bungalow friends — Eagles Roost and Lost Cove — hang out in a quiet row up a gradual hill at the resort’s end. Sawed-off triangles of warm wood with two ground-floor twin beds and a king-sized bed upstairs, they’re great for solo travelers, couples, and small families. I loved the solitude, the deck and fire pit, and the shade from light-struck leaves visible from my window. The mini-fridge, AC unit, and radiant heater did their jobs well.

A couple of notes: The bungalows are a short walk from the community bath and shower house, and they don’t have built-in bathrooms. Also, the staircase to the king bed is pretty steep — it’s more of a ladder. 

To avoid the climb up to bed or the walk past the bar to the bathhouse, consider the Noli Lofts. Like the bungalows, they have one king bed and two twins, but the king is downstairs. They include bathrooms with showers, lovely front decks, and better access to the Wi-Fi flowing from the camp store. The Noli Stretch unit is similarly luxurious and sleeps 6, but it doesn’t include bathrooms.

Other options (including Tiny House, a popular property that was featured on the television show Tiny House Nation) are outlined on the resort’s website. The court of vintage Airstreams next to the bar was particularly intriguing — they look great for those who want to be right in the middle of the social scene.

Accessibility Notes: The resort has a large, wheelchair-accessible bathroom and shower house. The Noli Stretch has a long entrance ramp but a 2.5-inch step at the door. Other units require ascending one to five stairs.

Camping

If you want to glamp, book a geodesic dome. You and another can enjoy a cloth dome with heat and AC, a riverside deck, and a king-sized bed. Open the flaps in the back to let the Appalachian air flow in during the day, then stargaze through the ceiling windows at night.

The resort has just four true campsites, but the 22-acre Red Banks Outpost — just 2 miles downriver — has 72. It is right on a glittering gray sand beach along a calm, swimmable portion of the Nolichucky. The view of the mountains from the Outfitters Store on your way in is worth the trip to the outpost alone.

The Red Banks Outpost also offers 12 hookup RV sites, a bathhouse, and Wi-Fi in the Outfitters Store.

2. Rafting

The premier attraction in Erwin, without doubt, is the Nolichucky River. Boats and paddles lean against homes on the riverside road to the resort, and when you reach the wooded stretch of cabins, glamp-sites, and fire pits, you can hear the river flowing just beyond the trees. Just about everyone I met was a raft guide, and they all overflowed with energy when talking about their time on the water.

High season is late spring through the summer — and for a reason. This is when water levels are reliably high. If you’re booking in the off-season, call to see what activities local water levels will allow. 

I spoke to Bynum about the rafting trips USA Raft Adventure Resort offers.

The Lower Nolichucky

The resort cozies up to a scenic stretch of the Lower Nolichucky where sunlight pours down mountainsides and onto the water. This is where the resort’s Lower Nolichucky rafting trips “put in,” or begin. Groups board inflatable vessels with experienced raft guides and head downriver. You’ll paddle past the Red Banks Outpost and eventually to the “take out” point, where a shuttle will be waiting to take you back to the resort.

There will be calm sections on this trip — and USA Raft does recommend this trip for beginners, view seekers, and rafters aged 4+ — but your raft will also take on class I, II, and occasionally III rapids. (The higher the class, the more chaotic the current.) You will get a taste of high adventure, and you will get wet.

“As someone who is on the water pretty often, I would describe [the Lower Nolichucky] as pretty moderate to beginner. [This is not] a lazy river float,” Bynum says.

If you take the half-day adventure, you’ll be on the water for around 4 hours; if you choose the full-day option (5–6 hours), you’ll stop amid beautiful mountain views for a picnic lunch.

The Upper Nolichucky Gorge

USA Raft’s Upper Nolichucky Gorge trips are for thrill seekers — those who loved the taste of high adventure and want more. You’ll crash through class III, class IV, and if water levels are high enough, some class V rapids, Bynum says.

USA Raft still takes beginners on the Upper Nolichucky Gorge trip, but the minimum age is 10 rather than 4. You’ll get wet, and there’s a chance you’ll take an unplanned swim. Your knuckles, I gather, might be as white as the water.

To reach these rapids, USA Raft will shuttle you 45 minutes from the Red Banks Outpost to the Upper Nolichucky Gorge. Your put-in is in the town of Poplar, North Carolina, where the waters are still fresh off their descent from Mount Mitchell, the highest mountain in the eastern U.S. 

As you would on the Lower Nolichucky trip, you’ll raft for nearly 4 hours straight through; or you can stretch your trip to 5–6 hours if you choose the full-day option.

Rafting Pro Tips

• To ensure availability, book these rafting trips (and other adventures) online before your trip. 
• For all rafting trips, the resort provides you with a helmet, paddle, personal floating device (PFD), and in colder conditions, a wet suit. Show up dressed in moisture-wicking athletic wear and, if you want, a swimsuit. Avoid cotton at all costs — it will only make you colder when it gets wet.
• Wear water shoes, tennis shoes, or sandals with a back strap (but not Crocs).

3. Caving Tours

On my second morning, I went into Worley’s Cave with John Davis, an agile, young-spirited man of 46. A veteran and former paramedic, Davis survived cancer and a 6-month hospital stay a few years ago. He’s since stuck to the fun things in life; for him, that means guiding groups over rushing rapids and through pitch-black caves.

The cave is on unassuming property at the edge of the woods in nearby Bluff City. It is privately owned — and has been since at least the Civil War, Davis said. USA Raft Adventure Resort has a good relationship with the owner and guides groups on educational caving tours year-round.

The cave is massive and completely wild, or undeveloped. We spotted bats high on the cave’s ceilings, baby salamanders in its puddles, and fossils in its walls; we crossed into the “cave’s atmosphere,” where outside smells and sounds no longer circulate in; we crawled and rolled through cracks and shimmied across ledges; we finally left the cave’s atmosphere and smelled our own world anew. 

Only one room in Worley’s Cave has been altered by humans: the Saltpeter Room. The humans were Confederate soldiers, Davis said. They were mining for saltpeter to aid in gunpowder production. You can still see the rocks they tossed away, their pickaxe marks in the walls, and the burn marks where their primitive headlamps scorched the ceiling.

Be Prepared

You’ll quickly learn why this is a caving tour, not a cave tour. You must be willing (and dressed) to get dirty and be able to navigate slick, uneven surfaces.

The limestone cave is wet with the water that built it. There are no lights but the ones you bring in, no paths but the ones you and your guide choose. You’ll cross wet surfaces with nothing to rest your hands on, as well as a stream that sometimes comes up to your knees. Most notably, there are several optional crawling sections. 

The most rewarding experiences, Davis said, are attained by those who are honest about what they’re comfortable doing and any physical limitations that could make exploring a big, wet rock difficult or uncomfortable. A Worley’s Cave adventure will always be adventurous — but by sharing these things with your guide, it can also be customized to you.

Caving Pro Tips

• Cover your knees and elbows, and avoid cotton socks. If you plan to do any of the crawls, you may prefer to bring low-profile knee and elbow pads.
• Unlike with raft trips, there is no shuttle to the cave. You’ll meet at the Bluff City Boardwalk and Pavillion before setting off as a group.
• Be sure to hit the bathroom before you leave the resort or campground — the pavilion has a bathroom, but there are no paper products.

4. Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

After I emerged from the cave atmosphere, I took a stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) lesson with Dale Swanson at the Red Banks Outpost.

Swanson, the SUP program manager and admin of the Whitewater SUP Facebook group, is a patient and athletic man of 58. He spent years in canoes as a river guide, which ravaged his knees; like TravelAwaits writer Louisa Rogers, changing to the low-impact sport of SUP greatly reduced his knee pain.

You can certainly seek adventure in SUP. You can hit some of the same wicked rapids rafters and kayakers hit — but what you may get most is the sense of majesty that helps define this area of Appalachia.

“Sitting on your board with your feet in the water, floating down the river… it’s magic,” said Swanson.

Swanson and I went over the movements of SUP on the small beach. When I felt ready, we got onto our boards and paddled on the calm waters, the sun casting an even light on the bare bluff beside us. Mountains poked up in the distance. I saw what he meant.

Water levels (and perhaps my skill level) weren’t high enough for us to paddle toward faster currents, but the feeling of staying upright over eddies in the current was quite nice — as was the fresh water each time I fell in.

USA Raft Adventure Resort offers these SUP lessons (generally lasting 3 hours) as well as immersive 2.5-day group SUP clinics. The clinics’ details are customizable based on skill level and comfortability.

If you’re interested in getting into the sport, we recommend these stand-up paddle boards.

SUP Pro Tips

• The most important skills in this sport are balance and water reading. If you need to develop these skills, start with the SUP lesson.
• Helmets and PFDs are provided. Don’t wear cotton — and if the water is cold, opt for wool or polypropylene coverings.

5. Hiking

I didn’t get the chance to hike through the gorgeous forest around me. Walking the resort and rocky riverbank, the forests of early fall begged me to explore them every time. Next time.

The Appalachian Trail runs through Erwin (and right by the resort), and the asphalt Erwin Linear Trail runs 4 miles through Cherokee National Forest. 

About 40 minutes by car from the resort, Unaka Mountain Beauty Spot gives hikers an impeccable view of the area, Bynum said. From the parking area, you can hike 2 miles on gravel to a grassy, panoramic lookout spot. You’ll be rewarded with views of endless Appalachian ridges from the overlook.

For more hiking in Erwin, check out AllTrails.

6. Local Food And Drink

To understand the community serving as your home base, just take a seat at the Take Out Bar. The outdoor bar draws in raft guides, resort-goers, and regular old citizens of Erwin. It looks like it sprung up from the forest floor, fully equipped with taps and atmosphere.

Take Out serves regional brews on draft and in cans (Yee-Haw Brewery Co., based out of nearby Johnson City, had a fantastic Oktoberfest beer during my visit), and the sunny deck is the perfect place to talk the afternoon away with locals and fellow adventurers. At night, its strung-up lines of lights look beautiful whether you’re within their glow or beholding them from the riverside picnic tables, listening to the river.

Just off to the side is a flavor you’ve likely never experienced: Appalachian-Caribbean fusion. The afternoon I arrived, One Love Food Truck treated me to the Jah Makin Me Crazy. Ordinarily, that’s grilled Hawaiian buns topped with grilled jerk chicken sliders, pickled red onions, and peach preserves; they were out of jerk chicken, so I went with sunny-side-up eggs in its place. It danced on my tastebuds. 

While getting into town and grabbing something local is great (and likely necessary, as One Love has limited hours depending on the resort’s projected occupancy), you will be leaving USA Raft without an essential experience if you don’t grab a meal from One Love.

Bonus: Dine At Dari Ace

I wasn’t able to eat in town much, but I was lucky to make it to Dari Ace in Erwin the morning I left the embrace of the mountains. It’s a small diner, maybe 10 seats around a breakfast bar bumped right up to the kitchen. I’m still confused — I somehow managed to speak with the five other diners there and never, for a moment, stop eating the biscuits and gravy I ordered. It was a lovely way to experience the community of Erwin.

7. A Proud Community

What impressed me most about USA Raft Adventure Resort was the community. Everyone there seemed well aware of how good they have it in Eastern Tennessee. During downtime, you’ll catch staff lounging on the Take Out Bar deck or around the community fire pit, looking out at the river.

The staff all get along and acknowledge each other’s hard work. They’re happy to build you a fire with wood purchased at the bar. Guests chat with other guests, constantly smiling about adventures had or to come. The atmosphere of this place, more than maybe anything else, left me on a high.

Pro Tip: Be Aware Of Festivals

Erwin, the Tri-Cities, and even the resort itself host events and festivals year-round, and those sometimes mean this lovely strip of the riverside is chock full. For socialites, this might be appealing — just book as early as you can so you’re part of the humanity — but those seeking a quiet getaway may want to avoid the resort at these times. 

You can always call ahead to get an idea of occupancy levels. My trip was on a Sunday–Tuesday following a music festival at the resort, and by the weekdays, it felt like a quiet neighborhood in the woods.

Related Reading:

• 4 Beautiful Drives In East Tennessee
• 12 Cities In Tennessee Perfect For Retirees
• How To Spend A Perfect Day In Johnson City, Tennessee
• Everything You Need To Know About Wild Caving In North America

If you are a water sports fanatic, then Ginnie Springs should be on your radar! It is Florida’s best location for unique water sports. It’s home to seven crystal clear springs that contain many submerged rock formations, making for some incredible dives. The area’s natural freshwater springs are all relatively constant in temperature — about 72 degrees Fahrenheit.

Native Americans initially utilized the spring to cure sick individuals.

The park is an excellent place for diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, among other sports. It features year-round activities and events such as concerts in the park, paddling clinics, and endurance races. We also share everything you need to know about camping at Ginnie Springs below.

Things To Do In Ginnie Springs

1. Freshwater Diving

Ginnie Springs is not called the “world’s favorite freshwater dive” for nothing. It has seven crystal clear springs where you can go diving. The deepest is around 45 to 50 feet deep, but the visibility is up to 111 to 120 feet! You must be a certified diver to dive Ginnie Springs.

These springs attract a profusion of certified dive enthusiasts every year. Many diving companies across the U.S. make Ginnie Springs trips a regular offering. With the constant 72-degree crystal clear water, it is an excellent choice for divers looking to take freshwater dives. 

Divers can choose to dive the Santa Fe River or the Ginnie Ballroom. Note that there are no dive lights allowed in this system.

Ginnie Ballroom Dive

The Ginnie Ballroom is like a candy store for diving enthusiasts. You’ll spot some amazingly unusual geologic formations. These formations are unique to the Floridan Aquifer. Among the formations, you’ll see spongework, which can be thought of as a gigantic piece of limestone swiss cheese.

2. Cave Diving At Ginnie Springs

Jacques Cousteau, the world-renowned conservationist and scientist who studied the sea and all water life forms, said this about Ginnie Springs: “No wind, no waves, and visibility forever.” In talking with a few of my diver friends, these are three of the best reasons to visit Ginnie Springs. 

Hand in hand with scuba diving, Ginnie Springs also features a network of underwater caves, which you can explore with the proper training and equipment. You must be a certified cave diver to dive the Devil’s Spring system. It’s fascinating because various chambers feature beautiful formations made from calcium carbonate. Cave divers from across the globe come to cave dive at Ginnie Springs.

The Devil’s Spring underwater cave system at Ginnie Springs encompasses three separate springs: Devil Spring, Devil’s Eye, and Devil‘s Ear.

Devil Spring Cave Dive

You must be a certified cavern or cave diver to enter the Devil’s Springs system. It is the only place in Ginnie Springs where dive lights are allowed. Devil Spring boasts one of the most awe-inspiring views as you look up toward the sky after descending through a 4-foot-wide fracture at the head of the Devil’s Spring and descend 50 feet. From the bottom, the water is so crystal clear you can see leaves on the overhead trees!

Devil’s Eye Cave Dive

Devil’s Eye is approximately 20 feet across and 20 feet deep. You’ll find the entrance to a small cavern at the bottom. Divers can explore as much as they can using the available sunlight.

Devil’s Ear Cave Dive

Devil’s Ear is a slit-like opening that’s located at the joining of the Santa Fe River and the Devil’s Spring. At the bottom of the slit, the force of the water is like a water cannon or fire hydrant. The coolest thing to do here is sit in the clear water of the basin and look up at the sun and trees. The river water creates an ethereal, stained-glass visual effect.

3. Snorkeling

For those who love snorkeling, Ginnie Springs is perfect! There’s no need to worry about strong currents since the spring is fed by underground sources that guarantee a gentle water flow.

There are designated areas in some of the springs where you can snorkel. This is perfect for people who would like to explore more of what Ginnie Springs offers or want something easier and less physically demanding than diving.

Each run of the springs is different, but when you reach the river, the water is a bit warmer than the springs, making for a great ending. As you snorkel (or dive), you can spot fish skimming along the bottom, darting in and out of the rocks. 

Pro Tip: Like almost any body of water in Florida, there are snakes and alligators. If you see an alligator, stay away from it and get out of the water as quickly as you can. And do not feed it.

4. Swimming

The spring-fed lagoon is a very relaxing spot to spend time. It’s deep enough for adults to swim, perfect for snorkeling, and has a gentle current where you can float along.

The water is very clear and was so refreshing, especially since we were there during summer when the heat was intense during the day!

5. Kayaking The Santa Fe River

One of our experiences was kayaking on the Santa Fe River. It’s not only exciting but also relaxing, and you get to enjoy flora and fauna such as ospreys, kingfishers, snakes, and turtles, among others.

Ginnie Springs is perfect for adventure-seeking kayakers since it has boat ramps and easy access to the Santa Fe River. Starting here, you can begin your journey through the designated areas. It’s about 7 miles from the campground down to High Springs. Paddling through the river is easy and relaxing as you go from spot to spot where you can stop for a picnic or a swim.

6. River Tubing

Another great Ginnie Springs experience is river tubing. Tubing is an exciting form of recreation that’s perfect for those who want to lay back and relax while the current pulls them along. 

You can bring your own tube, rent an inner tube at the springs, or purchase one to keep. The tubes come in singles or doubles, so you can float down the river together or alone! It’s a great way to explore the springs while taking in all of their natural beauty.

Ginnie Springs has designated areas for tubing, which you can reach by driving or walking. It’s perfect since you can choose what kind of adventure suits your preference and capability.

Pro Tip: Pack a picnic lunch, add in some music, and then stop along the river for a relaxing lunch.

Ginnie Springs Camping

The best way to enjoy everything Ginnie Springs offers is to book a campsite. The campgrounds have ample camping spaces with electricity and water hookups. There are tent sites and RV sites, so whichever form of camping you prefer, Ginnie Springs is a perfect getaway. In addition to tent and RV campsites, you can also book a stay in Ginnie Cottage.

Ginnie Springs is very popular for its campsites with amenities. This wonderful spot has everything you need to make your camping trip memorable with modern restrooms, showers, grills, picnic tables, electricity hook-ups, and more. Rest assured you’ll have everything you need to make your overnight stay comfortable.

Ginnie Springs is a must-visit camping site for everyone who’s into outdoor adventure. It’s a beautiful place where you can escape the modern world and connect with nature.

Camp rules include quiet time after 10 p.m., no pets, no fishing, and no loud noises. There are also restrictions on alcohol that you’ll want to familiarize yourself with when you book. Also, expect that there will be no lifeguards on duty, so you swim at your own risk. Remember to supervise children at all times.

Pro Tip: Arrive early as tent sites are first come, first serve, starting at 8 a.m. On weekends, people will be lined up before opening time.

Bonus: Visit High Springs

Less than 15 minutes away from Ginnie Springs is the town of High Springs, Florida. Don’t miss a stop here! High Springs is a small Florida town where it’s fun to just walk the streets and discover unique offerings.

Start your exploration of High Springs with a stop at High Springs Brewing Company. The brewery has a variety of local brews on tap — the perfect sustenance for a hot day. After a cool sip, head over to the High Springs Museum. Located Behind City Hall, the museum focuses on the settlement era, the Native Americans who resided in the area, and the local history and culture of the area.

Take a stroll through downtown High Springs. You’re sure to find a restaurant or two to tempt your taste buds as well as interesting shops and boutiques.

If you’re looking for an adventurous weekend away and a chance to just relax and unplug, Ginnie Springs is definitely the place to be. For more Florida vacation inspiration, also consider

• 10 Beautiful Bike Trails To Experience In Florida
• 6 Charming Small Towns To Visit On Florida’s Gulf Coast
• 7 Reasons To Explore The Undiscovered In Indian River County, Florida

Life can get overwhelming. After a few months of work, family, and social obligations, I am usually ready for a week-long retreat in nature. Dreaming of camping in a remote area surrounded by natural beauty, while dedicating my time to meditating, hiking, and reading, sounds like a piece of heaven. 

However, it’s difficult to fully unplug. Although it’s nice to be away from work stress or constantly scrolling social media, I usually still want to have the option to check in with my family, post photos online, and watch a show or two.

Aside from personal reasons, you will need a power source for practical reasons. You might want to power up your heater or have a backup energy source during a potential power outage. 

Luckily, there are many fast-charging portable power banks on the market that are lightweight and easy to carry to and from campsites. Keep reading to get a list of my favorite portable battery packs and why they will make your next remote getaway so much easier. 

My Favorite Portable Power Stations

After testing many portable power stations, these are the choices I recommend to my friends and family.

1. Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station

Buy Now $299.99

The Jackery Portable Power Station is the compact option of my dreams. It’s 40 percent smaller than most power stations and only weighs 7 pounds, so I can carry it from campsite to campsite without an issue.

Despite its small size, it still holds a 293Wh battery capacity. It can fully charge any devices or small appliances that I bring with me in a quick charge time.

It only takes 2 hours to charge the power station up to 80 percent and it is compatible with solar panels for solar charging. Although solar panels aren’t included, the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panels fit perfectly with this power station and are a wonderful addition. It features two pure sine wave AC inverter outlets, a USB-C, and a USB port; it should be compatible with any charging cord.

2. Anker Portable Generator

Buy Now $699.99

The Anker Portable Generator is still compact in design but is a more heavy-duty option for a power station. This power generator has a 778Wh capacity and the option to charge up to 16 devices at once.

Not only can it charge all your devices at once, but this is also a great option for total backup protection if you experience a power outage at your Airbnb or destination cabin. If you need to power a TV, mini fridge, large fan, or slow cooker (in addition to your personal devices), this is your best bet. 

Although it does not come with solar panels, it boasts versatile compatibility, so any solar panels you have or purchase should work with this generator. It has a built-in flashlight and light panel with three different intensity settings. 

You shouldn’t have a problem plugging in devices, either, since this generator comes with two AC outlets, two USB-C ports, four USB-A ports, one vehicle-class outlet, and two DC outlets.

3. MARBERO Portable Power Station

Buy Now $179.99

The MARBERO 88Wh Portable Power Station is the smallest option, best for quick emergencies. It barely weighs over 2 pounds and is small enough to throw in my backpack. It has an 88Wh capacity, making it perfect for a few phone charges or for working on my laptop. The MARBERO doesn’t come with solar panels but is compatible with many alternatives. 

This power station features a high-powered LED flashlight on the side, giving it a dual purpose. This is fantastic for a long day of hiking or a one- or two-night stay at a camping site.

4. BLUETTI Portable Power Station

Buy Now $299

This power station packs a good punch, given its large wattage capacity and sleek design. The BLUETTI power station has a 500Wh capacity with the ability to charge 11 devices simultaneously.

The BLUETTI AC50S Portable Power Station comes equipped with two AC outlets, one USB-C, four USB-A ports, two 12V/3A ports, one DC car output, one 10W wireless charging pad, and one LED lighting panel. It only takes about 6 hours to fully charge from solar panels, so one afternoon in the sun should be all you need. 

Additionally, it’s light in design and even features a carrying handle to make for easy transportation. 

5. Togo Power Station

Buy Now $249.99

The Togo Power 346wh Portable Power Station is the perfect middle-of-the-road option between a high-capacity, heavy-duty unit and a lower-capacity, sleek model. This power station has a 346Wh capacity and has the ability to power personal devices, lamps, fans, and even a mini cooler. 

Its design is extremely durable and also features a carrying handle. Additionally, it comes with one standard AC outlet, two DC5525 outlets, one cigarette lighter port, and one wireless charger. It has one USB-C port and three USB Type-A ports, which means it can charge up to nine devices at once. 

It’s compatible with the Advance 120 W solar panel, sold separately, and weighs under 10 pounds. All around, this is a wonderful, reliable option that will give you all the power you need for a multi-day camping trip.

What Is A Portable Power Station?

Simply put, a portable battery power station is basically one big power supply that can act as an adapter-free powerhouse for your devices and tools. A portable power station is designed for remote trips where you most likely won’t have access to wall outlets but still need full functionality out of your smartphone, laptop, and other devices.

A portable power station allows you to power or charge any devices or tools you need. They are often equipped with USB, micro-USB, and 12-volt power output charging ports. 

Why Do You Need A Portable Power Station?

If you are wondering why you would need to invest in a portable power station for what is supposed to be an “unplugged” getaway, it will come in handy much more than you might think.

Full Charge On Your Phone

First and foremost, no matter how much you want to stay off your phone for a relaxing vacation, you should never be totally without a backup power source. It can provide a connection to family, friends, or emergency services. 

Even if it’s just a quick, daily check-in with loved ones, letting them know where you are and what your plans are for the day, your phone should have the battery life so it’s ready to use and keep you safe — even if you’re off-grid in the Himalayas or the Amazon rainforest.

Camping Gear

While it’s tempting to plan a camping trip that doesn’t require any devices or appliances, you will be thankful when you can plug in a few devices. While you don’t need to do a full-on “glamping” trip (unless you want to), it’s nice to plug in a small heater overnight to make sleeping outside during the colder months more comfortable. 

Additionally, eating beans out of a can or deli meat on bread for the 5th day in a row can get a little old. I enjoy elevating my camping experience by using my portable power source to plug in a blender for smoothies, a waffle maker for morning waffles, or a portable stovetop for bacon and eggs.

You want to make sure you are properly fueled for your camping activities and having power to help you cook will make achieving that goal much easier — without having to turn to a gas-powered generator.

Outlet Reliability

I can’t tell you the number of times I have booked a cabin in a remote area that did not end up having usable outlets. Even if they promise a full electric hookup, you can never be too cautious.

Sometimes the outlets only work with certain chargers or, for some reason, at certain times of the day. Just to play it safe, bring your own power station so that you aren’t stuck running around your cabin looking for an outlet that works.

And, of course, if you are camping without a cabin, you definitely won’t have easy access to outlets and will definitely need your own power source.

Versatility

I love to travel and have found myself taking more remote trips after the pandemic changed the way I look at vacationing. I have found that investing in a high-quality power station has opened up the possibilities for vacation destinations and increased the runtime of many of my trips.

Plus, I use my power station as an at-home backup in case of an outage, with its lithium-ion battery providing enough energy to keep my phone alive.

Additionally, I know my power station will last me a long, long time. I can throw it in my car on any trip for an added layer of security. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

What To Look For In A Portable Power Station

If you have never bought a portable power station before, I totally understand how you feel. Reading about the specifications can seem confusing and it can be difficult to understand what to even look for.

Here are some guidelines that helped me when I was deciding what portable power station to get:

Capacity

The amount of power that your portable power station can hold is measured in watt-hours, written as Wh. The more watt-hours a portable power station has, the more power it has to charge and power your devices and tools. 

Portable power stations can range from 50 Wh up to 6,000 Wh. If you are camping and looking for something simple that can charge your phones and power a small fan, you only need a capacity of a few hundred-watt hours. However, if you are trying to power large-scale appliances or protect your home from a blackout, you will need a higher level of watt-hour capacity. 

Size

Size is definitely something to keep in mind when buying a portable power station. Most likely, you will have to travel some distance from your car to your camping site. Lugging all of your camping gear, including your clothes, food, and essentials, is enough work; you don’t want to add on a huge, heavy power source. 

Luckily, most portable power sources have this issue in mind and are designed to be compact and a breeze to carry. 

Solar Charging

A major benefit of portable power sources is that many of them can be charged using solar panels. This means that while you are camping, you can leave your power station out in the sun for a few hours during the day and have a fully charged power station. That solar power is present in several of our top picks listed above.

A solar generator also gives you the ability to extend your remote stay as long as you would like because, as long as you have sun, you will have power. 

Charged And Ready To Go!

Don’t let your relaxing and restorative outdoor getaway be tainted by a dead cell phone. Stay connected and power small camping gadgets to make your experience fun, comfortable, and safe. Whichever portable power source you choose will be provided with a reliable, steady power connection.

I never go camping without my portable power source now, and soon you will wonder how you ever lived without one.

To continue shopping our favorite travel products, check out:

• The Top-Rated Portable Charger Deals To Keep Your Electronics Juiced On-The-Go
• 20 Road Trip Essentials I’ve Learned To Never Hit The Road Without

Nature is one of my favorite places to unwind and recharge, and camping is an excellent way to fully immerse myself in the experience. My family and I recently began the national park circuit, hoping to visit each and every breathtaking park over the coming years. We eagerly anticipate each new campsite as we set up our base for exploring the surrounding park.

The regular camping season may be drawing to a close, but late fall and winter can also be great times to camp — if you don’t mind the colder temps and potential frost. But cooler temps also mean a less crowded campground — both in terms of other campers and fewer mosquitos. In fact, I am currently planning an early November campout with one of my best friends, so this sale is just in time for my last-minute needs for cooler-weather camping.

Whether you are looking for last-minute cold-weather buys like me, or stocking up for next summer, Amazon’s inaugural Prime Early Access Sale is here to ensure you have everything you need with up to 63% off on select Coleman outdoor gear. Here are my picks for the best buys; don’t miss out!

Coleman Dome Tent with Screen Room | Evanston Camping Tent with Screened-In Porch

Buy Now

When my wife and I first decided to make camping our go-to vacation experience, I spent far more time than I care to admit looking for the perfect tent for our family. In fact, I purchased — and returned — two other tents before finally stumbling on Coleman’s Evanston 6-person tent.

We have been using it for almost two years now and still love it. The interior is large enough to hold two queen-size air mattresses and still have space for an adult to stand fully upright in the center, or at least I can at 5′ 9″.

My favorite feature — and the tent’s best feature in my opinion — is the screened porch. Great for escaping the bugs while still enjoying great views and a nice breeze. The porch has a partial roof to keep out some of the rain and is a great place to relax while allowing anyone sleeping in the tent some privacy.

Coleman QuickBed Elite Extra High Airbed: Queen

Buy Now

As I age, the thought of sleeping directly on the ground has become less and less appealing to me. So when our family camps, we never forget to pack our air mattresses and pump — and don’t forget spare batteries! The single-high Coleman QuickBed Elite has a built-in 4D pump to ensure a fully inflated bed every time, and its ComfortStrong Coil construction helps ensure a more level sleeping surface.

Pro Tip: If getting in and out of a single-high mattress is not something you care to attempt, you may want to try the double-high mattress, although it does not include a built-in pump, so don’t forget to pack one!

Coleman Tandem 3-in-1 45 Big And Tall Double Adult Sleeping Bag

Buy Now

If traveling with a partner, camping can be a great opportunity to reconnect free from day-to-day distractions. Whether you are looking to cuddle up next to your partner or just need a little extra space to stretch your legs, the Coleman Tandem 3-in-1 Big and Tall sleeping bag provides you with options you won’t get with most sleeping gear.

When combined, the tandem sleeping bag provides a spacious sleeping area for two and is long enough to accommodate campers well over 6 feet tall. The bags can also be separated and used as two single-use bags when extra space is needed — we all end up in the dog house at one time or another, after all. Ideal for camping when the temps will not get lower than 45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Coleman Instant Pop Up Canopy (7’x5′)

Buy Now

While I don’t mind letting my skin get a natural tan during the summer months, I absolutely despise two things: sunburn and the alternative of constantly slathering on sunblock to protect against it. A pop-up canopy is a great solution when camping that provides a shaded retreat from the sun and rain when necessary. It is also ideal for use over food prep areas. Includes a wheeled storage bag for easy setup, and condenses down to only 34.25″ x 9″ x 9.5″ when stowed away.

Coleman LED Lantern | 390 Lumens Twin LED Lantern

Buy Now

Don’t get left in the dark; a lantern is a necessity for any camping trip. If you prefer a more traditional lantern, you may be more interested in this propane option. I, however, prefer the ease of use and safety of an LED lantern as I camp with young children, but it is also great if you will be camping with pets or just don’t want the hassle of fuel canisters and ignition.

The 390-lumen Twin LED lantern from Coleman is a great option, and at just over one foot tall, it takes up very little space while providing up to 32 feet of light when set on high. Best of all, it is water resistant, allowing continued use even in the rain. Just don’t forget backup batteries!

Coleman Fold N Go 2 Burner Propane Camping Stove

Buy Now

This compact camping stove blends the convenience of two burners with the packability of one-burner grills, taking up less space when packed away. Simply connect your propane canister and hit the ignite button — no matches necessary! Cooking and cleanup are a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your hard-earned meal to refuel for your next hike.

Coleman Fleece Sleeping Bag Liner

Buy Now

Whether you get cold easily or just want to reinforce your current sleeping bag for colder temps, this sleeping bag liner will bring the extra warmth when it is most needed. Simply add to the inside of your current bag for an additional 12 degrees of warmth. The lightweight and non-bulky fleece material can also be used independently, which can save space when a bulkier bag is not necessary.

Coleman Ultra Thick Insulation Soft Cooler

Buy Now

If you are headed to bear country, you may want to invest in a more durable cooler. However, if you need a portable cooler backpack to keep your food and drinks cold for that upcoming hike, this might just be the product for you. The main compartment can keep 28 cans cold for up to 42 hours, zipping shut to ensure nothing is lost along the way. It can be converted into a backpack, making your next picnic a breeze. External mesh pockets let you separately store dry items as well. Best of all, it comes with a built-in bottle opener so you don’t have to remember to pack one.

Coleman 12-Inch Steel Non-Stick Fry Pan

Buy Now

A propane grill is great, but if you don’t have anything to cook your food in, you will be pretty limited in what you are able to prepare. Coleman’s non-stick 12-inch frying pan is a great option for frying up eggs, grilling bacon, or even cooking up some flapjacks — can you tell breakfast is my favorite meal? Easy to clean and comes with a convenient folding handle for easy storage.

If you haven’t settled on the best place to use your new camping gear, check out:

• The Best Campgrounds Near The Water (And How To Book Them Now!)
• Retired National Park Rangers Share Their Top 8 Spots For Fall Camping
• 5 Reasons Why I Love Camping At Wineries — It’s As Fabulous As It Sounds

Autumn might have arrived, but that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the great outdoors. Sufficient preparation for the changing temperatures means I can continue doing all of my favorite things, including hiking and camping, even as the leaves change and mornings begin to sparkle with frost. 

A heated blanket is one of the best purchases to ensure your comfort and warmth camping through the colder months (plus, you can now fly with them). But, choosing a heated blanket can be an investment, and it’s important to know what factors to look for when considering different models. 

Keep reading and I’ll walk you through everything you need to know while shopping for an electric blanket and the seven best blankets on the market right now. 

What To Look For In A Heated Blanket

The most important factor when it comes to heated blankets is safety. These cozy blankets keep you warm and snug via electricity, meaning they can pose safety problems if not properly certified and tested.

Look for blankets that have been tested and certified by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), which certifies that electrical equipment includes the necessary safety features to be safe for consumer use. You can check out OSHA’s list of NRTLSs to check that your blanket of choice has been properly certified. 

When camping, what I need from my electric blanket differs from the one I snuggle under while reading by the fireplace inside.

For example, it’s essential to look for blankets with an automatic shutoff so that if you head out for a morning hike and forget to turn off your blanket, it isn’t burning a hole in the floor of your tent for hours. Most blankets have automatic shut-offs after four, eight, or 12 hours. Some models even come with timers so you can select how long you want your blanket on.

Outside of safety, other factors include fabric quality, size, nifty features like temperature control,  good color selection, and price. Finding the best-heated blanket for your unique camping style is a matter of assessing all of these features and choosing the one that most aligns with your needs. 

The Best Heated Blankets

Without further ado, here are the top heated blankets on the market right now:

• Best Throw Blanket: L.L. Bean Wicked Cozy Heated Throw 
• Best for the Car: Stalwart Electric Car Blanket 
• Best Cordless Blanket: Cozee Heated Blanket Battery Operated Portable Outdoor Cordless Heating Blanket 
• Best Portable Fleece Blanket: RoadPro BlackCanyon Outfitters RPHB-110DB 12-Volt Polar Fleece Heated Travel Blanket  
• Best All-Season Option: Sunbeam 10 Settings, Quilted Fleece Heated Blanket
• Most Luxurious: Brookstone® Twin Fleece Heated Plush Blanket Twin

L.L Bean Wicked Cozy Heated Throw

Buy Now$119/nightly avg

I love the L.L Bean Wicked Cozy Heated Throw because of its versatility. You can use it as a stylish throw in your living room at home, and also bring it along to keep you warm during cold nights at the campsite. Although, be warned — the ribbed material and luxurious silky side will make it difficult to give up your cozy spot next to the fire!

The Wicked Cozy throw is reversible and machine-washable, which adds another layer of versatility that you don’t find in every electric blanket. It’s 50 inches by 60 inches — standard heated blanket size — and boasts five heat settings as well as that important automatic shutoff. 

If you’re on the hunt for a heated blanket that you can use on the trails and off, it doesn’t get much better than this one. Bring it along on your next national park adventure, then throw it in the wash and return it to its usual spot on your couch with minimal fuss. 

Color Options: Cream, Gray, Shade Blue

Stalwart Electric Car Blanket

Buy Now $32.99

If you’re searching for a handy heated blanket to stow in your car on camping trips, look no further than the Stalwart Electric Car Blanket. This blanket is one of the least expensive options, yet it still provides the reliable warmth you’d want in a camping or emergency car blanket. It plugs into any car, SUV, RV, or truck cigarette lighter. It is lightweight and easily packable, making it great to keep in your vehicle for cold days on the road. 

There’s a lot to love about this blanket, including its extra long cord and extremely reasonable price point. One thing to note is that it only has one heat setting and tends to take a little longer to warm up than other more expensive blankets on the market.

It also is a thinner polyester material — perfect for storing in small spaces, such as your car or in your carry-on, but not the luxury experience you might get from pricier blankets. 

As with any product, it’s all about what you’re looking for. If you need an inexpensive and portable blanket for your car, I highly recommend the Stalwart Electric Car Blanket. Made with travelers in mind, this little blanket is perfect for throwing on during long drives to the campsite or using as a lap blanket while you roast s’mores by the fire. 

Color Options: Black & White Checkered

Cozee Battery-Operated Heated Blanket

Buy Now $399.99

The Cozee Heated Blanket is one of the most high-quality electric blankets. It has a micro-plush velour interior, water-resistant exterior, and comes with a rechargeable battery pack, making it perfect for camping trips with minimal electric access.

Unlike many heated blankets, the Cozee uses the power of your body heat to maintain its warmth without constantly pulling from an energy source. It warms up to a maximum of 108 degrees during a five-minute surge period. Then, it maintains that temperature using a low level of electric power as well as your body heat.

For that reason, it works best when used cocoon-style — stay wrapped up in the Cozee rather than using it as a throw to maximize its heating power. 

At 60 inches by 60 inches, this blanket is slightly larger than the average heated blanket and comes with a car adaptor, making it perfect for trips on the road. The downsides are that it only comes in one color (navy blue), and the batteries only last for so long.

If you’re planning on using it a few nights in a row, make sure you’ll have an electric source to recharge the battery, whether it be your vehicle or an outlet at your campsite. 

Color Options: Dark Blue

RoadPro BlackCanyon Outfitters RPHB-110DB 12-Volt Polar Fleece Heated Travel Blanket

Buy Now $47.24

Similar to the Stalwart Electric Car Blanket, the RoadPro Polar Fleece Blanket is perfect for keeping in your car and bringing with you on the road. It plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter and is relatively small and lightweight, yet still packs a powerful punch to keep you warm during those cold nights in the tent. 

I especially like this blanket because, at 12 volts, it’s low-powered enough that you can keep it running throughout the night without worrying about draining your car or solar batteries. It comes with a nicely sized eight-foot charging cord.

The RoadPro is made of a soft polar fleece material that feels much more luxurious than the price point would have you believe. Plus, it folds easily into the included zippered storage bag, making it perfect for frequent travelers looking for something snuggly to pack on the road. 

Color Options: Blue

Sunbeam 10 Settings, Quilted Fleece Heated Blanket

Buy Now $39.87

If you’re searching for a blanket for every season, the Sunbeam 10 Setting Quilted Fleece is the heated blanket for you. The dial on this blanket toggles between ten different heat settings, making it easy to readjust as you overheat or begin to get cold. My only complaint about the heat dial is that it isn’t backlit, meaning if you want to adjust it in the middle of the night, you’ll need a flashlight to see what you’re doing. 

It comes in four different colorways — admiral blue, cabernet, ivy, and mushroom — and four different sizes to fit beds (or sleeping bags) ranging from twin to king size. The Sunbeam is a quilted pattern, which gives it an extra luxurious feel. Plus, it’s machine washable and dryer safe, making this not just a high-quality choice, but a convenient one too. 

Color Options: Admiral Blue, Cabernet, Ivy, Mushroom, Night Fog

Brookstone® Twin Fleece Heated Plush Blanket Twin

Buy Now $54.99

When it comes to snuggling up around a campfire, it doesn’t get much better than the Brookstone Twin Fleece Heated Plush Blanket. Crafted from an extra-soft microfleece polyester, this blanket feels luxurious at an affordable price. Yet, it’s still light and portable enough to easily pack away for a weekend in the woods. 

I like that there are four heat settings to choose from, and the four-hour automatic shut-off provides peace of mind when enjoying the great outdoors. Like the Sunbeam 10, this blanket comes in four sizes (twin to king size) and has a removable 19 inch power cord — meaning it will stretch all the way to the campsite power outlets ten feet away from your tent!

If you’re searching for a luxurious blanket to line your sleeping pad that isn’t going to break the bank, the Brookstone Fleece is definitely the way to go. 

Color Options: Cream, Light Gray

The Bottom Line

If you love camping at higher altitudes or into the fall as I do, you need to invest in the weather and climate-appropriate gear to keep you warm through the night. No matter the temperature rating of your sleeping bag, few products can beat the reliability of a heated blanket. 

I adore camping, but who says you can’t camp in luxury? I investigate factors like safety, material quality, heating controls, size, and price point when buying and recommending a product.

Carefully consider what qualities are most important for you in a product, and make your selection based on that. With these blankets, you’ll be sure to enjoy yourself rather than spending your eagerly awaited trip shivering in your sleeping bag!

To continue shopping for your next camping trip, check out:

• 6 Highest Rated Sleeping Bags For All Styles Of Camping
• The Essential Camping Gear Packing List

Whether I’m camping locally with my family or pitching my tent midway through a high-altitude hike, choosing the right sleeping bag is one of the most important decisions I have on my pre-trip to-do list. 

Getting enough sleep is critical for a good backpacking or camping trip, and a poorly designed sleeping bag can ruin an entire week in the woods, especially in cold weather. The best sleeping bags are designed with both comfort and durability in mind and are usually rated for specific temperature zones.

Think about your camping habits and choose a bag that appropriately reflects them.

If you spend a lot of time camping in colder climates or seasons, you might choose a bag with a down fill and a low-temperature rating. Or perhaps you like to take the family camping and you need a bag for your young children.

Whatever your style of camping, there’s a high-quality sleeping bag out there for you. And remember that sleeping bags are an investment — the best ones usually come with lifetime warranties and are designed to be a steadfast companion throughout your whole camping career.

Today, I’ll discuss these six sleeping bags so that you can find the perfect one:

• Best Double Sleeping Bag: The North Face Dolomite One Double Camping Sleeping Bag
• Best Overall Sleeping Bag for Camping: The North Face Dolomite One Bag Camping Bag
• Best Eco-Friendly Sleeping Bag: The North Face Eco Trail Sleeping Bag: 20F Synthetic
• Best Budget Down Sleeping Bag: Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree 550 Down Sleeping Bag
• Best for Warm Weather Camping: Marmot Always Summer Lightweight Sleeping Bag: 40F Down
• Best for Kids: Big Agnes’ Kids Duster 15-Degree Sleeping Bag

Best Double Sleeping Bag: The North Face Dolomite One Double Camping Sleeping Bag

Buy Now $249.95

For campers who enjoy exploring a variety of climates and seasons, it doesn’t get much better than this three-in-one men’s and women’s sleeping bag by The North Face:

The North Face Dolomite One comes with three stackable top quilts, which can be zipped and unzipped to fit the needs of a camper in temps ranging from 15 to 50 degrees. When I take those camping trips that make me almost feel like Mrs. Claus trekking across the North Pole, I bring this along and look forward to getting cozy under the stars. 

I particularly love this bag because of how well the layers work together. The bag’s shell is made from a proprietary North Face material, which I’ve found to be both insulating and cool against the skin.

Double Bags: Details Matter

It’s just as easy to zip the layers together for extra warmth as it is to shed them in the heat — the simplicity of design (without sacrificing quality) takes this bag from good to great. For a double sleeping bag, it’s also pretty roomy.

Some double bags tend to overheat due to extra synthetic insulation, which can quickly turn a sleeping experience miserable, but this one is sufficiently large and temperature-controlled. I’ve never had to worry about waking up in a sweat in the middle of the night.

My only word of warning about the Dolomite One is that if you prefer camping in colder climes, it’s only rated to 15 degrees — at temps closer to zero, you’ll likely be fairly cold in this bag.

There is also a little opening in the foot box where all the zippers converge: While it’s protected by a velcro flap, this opening tends to let in more of a draft than is desirable. Just don’t forget the fuzzy socks, and you should be good to go!

Best Overall Sleeping Bag For Camping: The North Face Dolomite One Camping Sleeping Bag

Buy Now $339.45

This bag is identical to the Dolomite One Double, except it’s designed to comfortably fit one person rather than two. Measuring 66 inches wide, it’s almost exactly half the width of the Double, providing enough wiggle room for one without creating too many cold spots.

It boasts all the unique features that make the Dolomite Double such a great bag — cooling fabric, clever quilt layering, and high-quality YKK zippers. If you want the high quality of a North Face bag but prefer to have your own space in the tent, the North Face Dolomite One is the sleeping bag for you.

Best Eco-Friendly Option: The North Face Eco Trail Sleeping Bag: 20F Synthetic

Buy Now $118.95

One of the joys of camping is getting to spend time surrounded by nature, and with this sleeping bag, I can rest easy knowing the eco-friendly construction helps protect the spaces I love so much.

Not only is the outer shell and fill made with 100 percent recycled polyester, but the water-repellent coating is free of PFC chemicals that have been linked to environmental damage.

When I hear about a product made with recycled materials, my first instinct is to be doubtful of the quality. In this case, however, I’ve found that the recycled polyester fill actually gives the bag a home-y, duvet-like quality. Nothing makes me more satisfied than knowing that the material keeping me snug was saved from eternity in a landfill.

Aside from its environmental perks, the North Face Eco Trail Sleeping Bag: 20F Synthetic has a ton of thoughtful details that make it an all-around great option for any camper. The bag comes with loops that allow you to fix it to a sleeping pad or mat. This is helpful if you’re a restless sleeper like me and tend to shift around a lot at night.

The bag cinches in around the neck with a thoughtfully-designed hood, maximizing comfort and warmth during colder temps; meanwhile, the zipper curves across the foot box, allowing for easy access to unzip your feet in the night if they get stuffy. While this sleeping bag is generally fitted for warmth, it does make use of extra knee room.

Finally, it includes an easy-access pocket, perfect for storing your phone during the night. If you want a high-quality sleeping bag that gives back to the environment, keep this option in your back pocket. 

Best Budget Down Sleeping Bag: Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree 550 Down Sleeping Bag

Buy Now $159.95

The Kelty Cosmic 20 has been an award-winning sleeping bag for decades, and for a good reason. This three-season bag is packed with down insulation, giving it a temperature rating of 21 degrees F. And while most down sleeping bags tend to be on the pricier side, the Kelty Cosmic 20 is an affordable budget option — just under $170 at the time of writing.

One of the best elements of this bag is how spacious it is. The Cosmic is a mummy-style bag, meaning it tapers in width towards the feet. While this can sometimes make a sleeping bag feel cramped or stuffy, in this case, the dimensions are roomy enough that size isn’t an issue.

The Cosmic is on the heavier side, at 2.83 pounds, but it packs down to just over 9 liters in volume — better than average for most budget sleeping bag options.

The biggest drawback of a down sleeping bag is that once it gets wet, the bag’s ability to insulate basically vanishes. Although the fill in the Cosmic is only 75 percent down, the synthetic fill is mostly concentrated on the bottom of the bag, making it largely useless in the event of rain. I recommend sticking to dry climates with this bag. 

Otherwise, the Kelty Cosmic 20 Degree 550 Down is a fantastic option for a durable yet affordable down sleeping bag.

Best For Warm Weather Camping: Marmot Always Summer Sleeping Bag: 40F Down

Buy Now $218.95

If you prefer planning your adventures in warmer climates, the Marmot Always Summer sleeping bag is for you. Thanks to a light layer of 650-fill, duck-down insulation, this bag compresses extremely well. At the same time, a proprietary waterproof treatment on the exterior helps keep the fill (and you) protected from rain.

The Marmot Always Summer Bag is crafted from a cooling nylon material, and a lightweight design makes this mummy sleeping bag perfect for summer getaways or trips anytime the nightly temp doesn’t drop below 40 degrees. It also boasts a convenient stash pocket, high-quality YKK zippers, and a nice little compression sack.

Even with a layer of down fill, I wouldn’t recommend pushing the temperature rating on this bad boy. The Always Summer maintains the high quality we’ve come to expect from Marmot, but that doesn’t make it a three-season bag: This one should stay firmly packed away in its tiny, efficient stuff sack until summer.

Best For Kids: Big Agnes’ Kids Duster 15 Degree Sleeping Bag

Buy Now $119.95

Finding a well-made children’s sleeping bag can be a bit of a challenge. Brands seem to assume children are more likely to brave the wilds of their own backyard rather than a campsite or mountain trail. Sadly, sometimes, they don’t put as much effort into creating the same level of quality and durability as they do with adult sleeping bags.

Luckily, I’ve found one exception, and it’s the Big Agnes’ Kids Duster 15 Degree. This mummy-style bag is insulated with synthetic fill and designed to grow with your child, thanks to a clever hook and loop system that makes the bag adjustable across both width and length.

In fact, this sleeping bag can be sized appropriately for children from preschool to middle school. That’s a bag well worth the investment, especially since having a well-fitted sleeping bag is key to eliminating cold spots and sleeping comfortably all through the night.

The Big Agnes’ Kids Duster is rated for 15 degrees, although, I would recommend sticking within the 20—30 degree range since this is likely a manufacturer estimate. There also isn’t any padding under the back sleeve of the bag, so you’ll need to pack your own sleeping pad for maximum comfort and warmth.

It does have a nice built-in pad sleeve, though, which you can attach to a sleeping pad to ensure your child doesn’t roll off in the middle of the night.

Sleeping Soundly And Laughing Loudly: Traveling Joy

Finding a long-lasting and high-quality sleeping bag for your next greatest adventure is as simple as point, click, and book your trip. Whether you’re taking a romantic trip to New Zealand or camping with your children or grandchildren on a warm summer night, a high-quality sleeping bag can make all the difference in the world.

To continue shopping for your next camping trip, check out:

• The Essential Camping Gear Packing List
• Solo Stove: The Best Camping Stove You Need Right Now
• The Best Hiking Shoes In 2022

“Camping in national parks in the fall is a great way to commune with nature,” says retired National Park Ranger Marilyn Irwin. Who couldn’t use a little commune with Mother Nature? Irwin says, “most national parks have campgrounds where travelers can park an RV or pitch a tent.”

We reached out to Irwin and a few other retired rangers to tell us their favorite places to camp in the fall. Below you can read about the national parks they suggest visiting in autumn as well as their recommended campgrounds. Keep in mind that campgrounds near national parks are extremely popular, so be sure to make reservations in advance.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park

“If you love the outdoors in the fall, enjoy seeing wildlife which are more active in the fall, like hiking or relaxing in beautiful areas, and feeling the peace of a lovely sunset at the end of your day, consider camping in one of the national parks,” says Irwin. “Maybe Rocky Mountain National Park will call your name for a trip to remember.”

“In Rocky Mountain National Park, there are five front-country campgrounds,” she tells us. “Each beautiful in the fall and accessible by driving directly to them.”

Moraine Park Campground

“Each of Rocky’s campgrounds has unique features,” Irwin shares. “Moraine Park Campground is tucked between two moraines with an expansive view of mountains. The nearby meadow with the Big Thompson River running through it is a good place to spot elk and mule deer any time of the year. In the fall, it’s a good place to watch the elk rut [their mating ritual].”

Pro Tips: “For the past several years, Rocky has had a timed entry system,” says the former ranger. “Visitors between May 27 and October 10 are required to have timed reservations. A campground reservation gives access to the park at any time and a timed entry reservation is not needed.” She also notes that “pets are not allowed on trails in the park but are allowed at front-country campsites.”

2. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Located in southern Arizona, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is known for its wealth of the distinctive cactus species that is whimsically named after a pipe organ. The region also stands out for its warm and sunny winter weather that allows for stellar hiking, biking, and camping from about November through March. Former National Park Ranger Phil Selleck tells us about his favorite places to camp nearby.

Twin Peaks Campground

“For RV and tent camping, there is the Twin Peaks Campground,” Selleck says. “After the middle of October, there are nice temperatures and not a lot of campers. With the temps falling in November, the number of campers picks up. There are 174 pull-through RV sites and 34 tent sites. For organized groups, there is also a group campsite. The campground has restrooms, showers, and drinking water.”

For those who want to experience the quiet and views of the desert landscape, this is the place. Generator use is limited to 2 hours in the morning and 2 in the afternoon in 112 campsites; you’ll be able to hear cactus wrens in the morning. Enjoy camping among mature saguaro and organ pipe cacti.”

Alamo Canyon Campground

“For more quiet tent camping off the main road, check out the Alamo Canyon Campground,” suggests Selleck, who says the campground boasts “wonderful hikes into the canyon.” Selleck says to “look for pyrrhuloxia [dessert cardinal] and phainopepla, which are birds that are unique to the desert.”

Pro Tip: “Remember a flashlight when out at night,” reminds Selleck. “There are five species of rattlesnake in the park, and they are very common.”

3. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

“In the Pictured Rocks area, temps get very cool in the fall, and, other than deer season, should have fewer campers,” Selleck says. Here are his favorite places to pitch a tent near Pictured Rocks.

Bayview Campground

“About 90 minutes east of the park, on the Hiawatha National Forest, is Bayview Campground,” explains Selleck. He describes the campground as “quiet and very scenic” and reminds potential campers that reservations are necessary.

Primitive Camping Along Lake Superior

“The Forest Service allows ‘dispersed’ camping with specific rules on how and where to camp in the forest,” says Selleck. “So if you can find a spot that falls within their guidelines, you may be able to find your own little Lake Superior getaway.”

Pro Tips: “The trip from Bayview Campground to Picture Rocks takes you by Whitefish Point where there is a shipwreck museum that talks about the 300-plus Lake Superior shipwrecks (remember the Edmund Fitzgerald?). Just west, there is Tahquamenon Falls State Park. You may also stumble across the Two Hearted River, made famous by Hemingway. In any case, it’s a great way to find Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore,” says the former national park ranger.

4. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

“Glen Canyon National Recreation Area will have fewer campers and cooler temps in the fall,” Selleck informs us of his final recommendation for fall. Here’s where he likes to camp near the area that surrounds Lake Powell and lies in both Utah and Arizona.

Halls Crossing RV & Campground

“Halls Crossing RV & Campground is run by a concession and is pretty much an ordinary campground,” comments Selleck. “But it is the location more than anything. It is one of the lesser-used areas of the park, and the scenery just to get there is great. For part of the trip, Monument Valley dominates the horizon. There are wonderful views of Bears Ears and Natural Bridges National Monument is just a short side trip on the way.”

The views from Hall’s Crossing are wonderful, especially the dark sky. You can see the Water Pocket Fold of Capitol Reef National Park and Navajo Peak, for example. And 10 minutes from the campground, if you walk out across what looks like unremarkable terrain, you will discover small canyons that narrow to slots before they reach Lake Powell — quiet and beautiful.”

5. Shenandoah National Park

“Cool crisp fall nights await in Shenandoah National Park,” remarks former National Park Ranger Rebecca Harriett. “The park has five campgrounds that do require advanced reservations,” she tells us, “especially during the busy autumn season. Campgrounds are open from early spring until late fall. Weekends are the busiest time so try for a weekday visit if possible.”

Big Meadows Campground

“Big Meadows in the middle of the park is the largest, but also closest to Big Meadows Lodge for meals,” Harriett informs us. “It is centrally located for campers who like being near the main park visitor center and the concession lodge. Campers can eat at the lodge dining room or tavern if they don’t want to cook.”

Loft Mountain Campground

“Loft Mountain is the smallest, but quietest,” Harriett tells us. “You can’t go wrong with the lovely night skies.”

Lewis Mountain Campground

“Lewis Mountain Campground is my favorite because it is smaller than the others, but has a camp store for easy resupply,” says Harriett.

Pro Tips: “All of the campgrounds are near easily accessible hiking trails, which is my favorite part of Shenandoah National Park,” continues Harriett, “They are especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom, but autumn brings gorgeous fall foliage. The Rose River Loop and Rapidan Camp trails are my personal favorites. The Appalachian Trail runs parallel to Skyline Drive for 101 miles, so it is easily accessible for those who want to set foot on the iconic long-distance trail. The night sky at Big Meadows can be pretty spectacular also.”

6. Cape Lookout National Seashore

“People usually associate beach camping with the summer,” says Harriett, “but I enjoy the beach in early fall (mid-September to the end of October). The crisp night air will keep the bugs at bay, but fishing, birding, and beachcombing will be most pleasant. The water may even be warm enough for a September swim.”

There are no designated campgrounds at Cape Lookout, but plenty of space to find a secluded spot for beach camping. Most visitors take the park concession ferry from the east end of Harkers Island, North Carolina, to either Shackleford Banks or Core Banks South near the Cape Lookout Lighthouse. The park’s visitor center is located at the marina so campers can get up-to-date information about the weather and things to see and do on the islands. Campers need to be self-sufficient though, including bringing enough water as there are no camp stores within the park. There is a seasonal beach shuttle that will haul you and your gear to your beach location for a small fee, but check the ferry’s website for current operating hours. Backpackers can just hike to the beach and select their spot.”

Pro Tip: “The only drawback to fall beach camping is the possibility of hurricanes, so be mindful of the weather before heading out,” adds Harriett.

7. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

“Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a better option for fall beach camping for those who don’t want to rough it,” Harriett contends.

Ocracoke Campground

“The seashore has several designated campgrounds, but the one on Ocracoke Island is my favorite,” she says. “Like many national park campgrounds, it is best to make reservations ahead of time. Check the park’s website for fees and amenities. We are tent campers so don’t require much. This campground is near the Village of Ocracoke which has many wonderful seafood restaurants and taverns. Plus, it’s fun to just wander around checking out the quaint shops and the historical museum. Getting to Ocracoke requires taking a car ferry, but is well worth the effort, adding to its charm.”

8. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

“If you’re tempted to visit Yellowstone for its 150th anniversary, consider visiting Guadalupe Mountains,” says former National Park Ranger Greg Jackson, “It’s also celebrating an anniversary in 2022: 50 years as a park.”

“Both Yellowstone and Guadalupe Mountains are well known for their backcountry hiking experiences,” says Jackson. “Guadalupe Mountains National Park is primarily a road-free wilderness experience. It doesn’t have the major front-country infrastructure of Yellowstone. Come for the hiking and camping. Hiking options are plentiful. There are trails to suit everyone’s abilities and endurance.”

The two developed campgrounds are nice and typical for an arid environment. The majority of camping is in the 10 wilderness campgrounds. I mentioned that the park is primarily a wilderness experience, right?”

The park does get busy on weekends in its two short peak seasons, spring and fall; midweek, not so much. And outside of peak season, not much at all. As you would expect by its location in west Texas, adjacent to the New Mexico border, summer is hot. Winters are relatively mild but can have some seriously chilly weather due to the park’s elevation.”

The elevation also gives a bit of a surprise for this part of the world — fall colors. From mid-October to mid-November, in some of the canyons, there are actual deciduous trees with actual leaves that will turn color. While this may not impress those in the northeast, for this part of the world, it’s quite something.”

Fun Fact: “If you’re looking for additional comparisons to other parks, both Guadalupe Mountains and Yosemite are known for massive monoliths known as El Capitan,” explains Jackson. “The Guadalupe Mountains version is part of a fossilized reef. So you can also compare it to Capitol Reef National Monument — except the Guadalupe Mountains version was a real reef, and the other just looked like one to those who named it.”

Pro Tip: “The park is often combined with a visit to nearby Carlsbad Caverns National Park and White Sands National Park,” he says. “Those traveling west on Interstate 10 can also pick up Chiricahua National Monument and Saguaro National Park in Arizona on the trip.”

Related Reading:

• 5 National Parks To Visit In 2022, According To A Park Ranger
• The 16 Most Beautiful Places To See Fall Foliage In 2022
• From Wine Harvest To Apple Picking: 12 Amazing RV Camping Trips To Try This Fall

As my friend Tim and I drove south from Amarillo, Texas, toward Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the flat panhandle of Texas, I began to doubt that the second-largest canyon in the United States actually existed.

Located 25 miles south of Amarillo and only 14 miles from Canyon, Texas, this often overlooked canyon seems to pop out of nowhere. The drive through the flat, scrubby panhandle terrain gave no hint at the fact that a canyon that dips 800 feet down in places even exists out here in the dusty west.

“I think they’re fooling us,” I joked. “There’s no way there is a canyon out here.”

When Palo Duro Canyon does come into view, it’s sudden and shocking. One minute, you’re staring at plains; the next, the earth opens up into a wide panorama of colors, canyons, cliff walls, and knee-shaking vistas.

Second in size only to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Palo Duro Canyon was formed by millions of years of relentless Texas winds and water erosion from the unassuming Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River.

Nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of Texas” because of its size, stunning geological features, multicolored layers of rock, hoodoos, and steep mesa walls, Palo Duro Canyon is also the second-largest state park in the state parks system, and it features 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails (PDF).

We spent a long, spring weekend at Palo Duro Canyon, which offers long, challenging hiking trails, flat scenic walks, stunning views, historical sites and markers, horseback riding, and a variety of camping.

History Of Palo Duro Canyon State Park

As the second-largest canyon system in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon is 120 miles long and 20 miles wide. At up to 800 feet deep, the canyon is filled with colors from 250 million years of geological layers.

According to Texas State Parks, Palo Duro Canyon has been inhabited for about 12,000 years, starting with the Clovis and Folsom peoples, who hunted herds of mammoth and giant bison.

The Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa also called Palo Duro Canyon home, but the canyon is also the site of one of the darkest moments for Native Americans.

The Red River War between the U.S. Army and southern Plains Indians lasted from June 1874 to spring 1875, and on September 28, 1874, the 4th U.S. Cavalry launched a surprise attack at dawn on a camp of Comanches, Kiowas, and Cheyennes.

The tribes fled, but the U.S. forces shot and killed their 1,400 ponies and burned all the winter supplies, leaving the families no choice but to surrender and return to the reservation.

A rancher named Charles Goodnight founded the JA Ranch in the canyon in 1876 with John Adair, and by 1885, the ranch boasted 100,000 head of cattle and 1,325,000 acres of land.

In 1887, the partners divided up the land, and in 1933, Texas bought the land for the park. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) spent five years building the infrastructure of the park, and today, that legacy can be seen in what is now the visitor center, the cabins on the rim and canyon floor, and the trails. The 28,000-acre park opened in 1934.

Things To Do In Palo Duro Canyon

Many visitors to Palo Duro Canyon State Park can spend days upon days exploring the canyon by foot, mountain bike, horse, or car. With more than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, outdoor adventurers can stay busy studying nature, birdwatching, hiking, or just taking in the scenery during a day trip from Amarillo.

Get Riding!

Horseback riding is a popular activity at the canyon, and the Old West Stables offer guided horseback trail rides from March to November. The equestrian area at Palo Duro Canyon State Park has about 1,500 acres, and many of the trails in the equestrian area are strictly for horses for a leisurely getaway. The park has other horseback trails open to all users, including the Juniper Cliffside Trail (about six miles round-trip) and the Lighthouse Trail (about six miles round-trip).

The equestrian area has six primitive campsites, a corral and old west stables, and water nearby. You must walk or drive to a nearby camping area for restrooms and showers.

Find Treasures Through Geocaching

Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game where participants use a GPS to find (or hide) “geocache” containers, which contain small treasures and logbooks for participants to sign. Palo Duro Canyon has several geocaching sites to discover.

Mountain Biking In The “Grand Canyon Of Texas”

If you yearn to try mountain biking in this west Texas landscape, Palo Duro has a few mountain biking trails that offer views and a challenge. The Givens, Spicer & Lowry Running Trail is a favorite mountain biking route, but the Lighthouse Trail and Capitol Peak Mountain Bike Trail also weave through Civilian Conservation Corp sites, old west stables, and towering rock formations.

Paved roads to the visitor center in the second-largest canyon in the U.S. can also be reached by bicycle, though you should be cautious of cars and other traffic at Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Learn About History And Art

For history and art lovers, Palo Duro Canyon State Park has a wealth of both.

The Canyon Gallery, which is operated by the Partners in Palo Duro Canyon Foundation, was built out of native stone in 1933 by the CCC and remains one of the most impressive buildings at Palo Duro State Park.

With soaring windows that give an impressive view of the canyon and its rock formations, the Canyon Gallery is full of nature exhibits, archeological discoveries of west Texas, and Southwest art. It’s also a great place to learn about the history of the “The Texas Grand Canyon” and the impressive geology that makes this Texas Panhandle park so unique.

Visitors can pursue handmade Native American pottery; Navajo, Zuni, and Santo Domingo silver and turquoise jewelry; local paintings; souvenirs; and books about west Texas and Texas panhandle history and “The Grand Canyon of Texas.”

For more souvenirs, camping supplies, and ready-to-eat food, visit the Palo Duro Trading Post. The trading post is also the only gas station and fast-casual restaurant in the park.

Hit The Trails At Palo Duro

By far, the most popular activity in the canyon is hiking. The Texas Parks and Wildlife trails range from flat and easy to steep and rugged, but even a hike along the paved roads gives countless opportunities to see the towering mesas and the diverse wildlife, like coyotes, rabbits, deer, and the nimble, regal aoudads.

The “Grand Canyon of Texas” has 16 marked hiking trails ranging from easy, half-mile paths to longer trails that can connect to one another through winding rock formations. The hiking trails lead to notable landmarks like ancient landslides, cavern-like areas, old Civilian Conservation Corps buildings, and wildlife viewing blinds. 

Even a day trip from Amarillo can allow you to explore all the hiking trails at this Texas state park.

A trail map can be found here (PDF).

Pro Tip: Always pack more water than you need. The canyon floor can become blistering hot, reaching 120 degrees during the warmer months, and the park ranger told us most of the first-aid emergencies are due to over-exertion and dehydration. Never begin a hike without at least a half-gallon of water per person, per hour.

Best Camping In Palo Duro Canyon

Tim and I stayed at the Hackberry Campsite, one of four Palo Duro State Park campsites with water, electricity, and public restrooms. Every morning, a large flock of turkey wandered through, gobbling and showing off their plumes as we drank coffee and watched the sun rise over the canyon walls and hoodoos.

Palo Duro State Park has numerous campsites with water and electricity, tent sites, equestrian sites, and backpack camping areas. You’re close enough to Amarillo, however, if camping isn’t your style, you can find plenty of hotels in the Texas Panhandle within an hour or so.

Note: Palo Duro Canyon is open for day use from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, but for the foreseeable future, all guests, including annual pass holders, must purchase day passes and/or overnight reservations in advance through the Texas State Parks Reservation System.

Hackberry Campground

While all the campsites seem nice, I especially liked Hackberry because of the little creek that weaves around it and the way it nestles along a cliff face. We were lucky to score the last available campsite when we visited, and although it was a bit of a hike to the restroom, I thought it had the best views in the park.

The Hackberry Campsite at Palo Duro State Park has 32 sites and is the second public campsite you’ll come across after entering the park.

Juniper

The Juniper campsite is the first campground you’ll see after entering the park and passing the visitor center. Like the other campgrounds, this site has water and electricity as well as wonderful views of the west Texas landscape and rock formations. The Juniper has 18 sites with restrooms and showers nearby.

Mesquite/Sagebrush

Near the end of Palo Duro Canyon is the third campground, and the largest, with 47 sites. Some of the sites can hold a 60-foot RV. Nestled on the Palo Duro Canyon floor, this campground gives easy access to the old west stables, horseback riding paths, and trails like The Lighthouse Trail.

Cow Camp Cabins

For those looking for a rustic adventure, the park features three cabins on the canyon’s rim or four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor.

Pro Tips

Reserve campsites as early as possible, especially for holiday and summer weekends. If you plan to spend a lot of time in Texas and near Amarillo, consider a Texas State Park Pass, which offers unlimited visits to more than 90 state parks without paying the daily entrance fee. You can also receive discounts on camping, park store merchandise, equipment rental discounts, eligibility for other specials.

Personally, I think springtime is the best time to visit Palo Duro State Park. The weather doesn’t get as hot as it does during summertime in the Texas Panhandle, and it’s not as crowded.

Best Hiking In Palo Duro Canyon

On our first morning in Palo Duro Canyon, Tim and I woke just as the sun was beginning to glow to start hiking. With more than 30 miles of trails to choose from, including the Upper Comanche Trail that weaved right through our campsite (Hackberry), we ended up hiking 17 miles that first day.

The Givens, Spicer, And Lowery Trail

We started on the Givens, Spicer, and Lowery Trail, a 3.1-mile singletrack path that leads to the Red Star Ridge. The trailhead starts across the street from the Hackberry Campsite, and at about 1.5 miles, the terrain becomes less challenging and more rolling.

The Lighthouse Trail

The Givens Spicer Lowery Trail also connects to one of the most popular trails — the Lighthouse Trail, a three-mile easy, more-or-less flat path that leads to The Lighthouse, one of the most impressive and famous rock formations in Palo Duro Canyon. The Lighthouse Trailhead has an information board and parking, but this is also the busiest hiking trail in Palo Duro State Park during the high season.

The CCC Trail

One of my favorite trails to hike was the CCC Trail, a rugged and steep 1.4-mile trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps that follows the Palo Duro Canyon State Park rim near the visitor center. While not necessarily hard, the trail is fairly rugged as it leads to Goodnight Peak. It also becomes so narrow that there are steep drop-offs and views on both sides of the trail.

Rock Garden Trail

We tackled the challenging and steep 2.4-mile Rock Garden Trail, which connects with the 3.7-mile Rylander Fortress Cliff Trail, where we spotted herds of aoudads and even two coyotes running through the brush. The Rock Garden Trail is steep in some places, but luckily, there are plenty of places to rest and recover from the west Texas heat.

Lower And Upper Comanche Trail

The 4.4-mile Lower Comanche Trail connects to the 3.3-mile Upper Comanche Trail for a nice hike that runs through most of Palo Duro State Park. The 2.2-mile Paseo Del Rio Trail is an easy, flat path that meanders along the river and is good for all levels of hiking. You’ll be able to see a great deal of the second-largest canyon in the United States along this hiking trail.

Backcountry Trails

One of our favorite hikes was a backcountry horseback riding trail that runs approximately 1.6 miles from the equestrian area and old west stables at Palo Duro State Park. I could have sworn we hiked way more than 1.6 miles, but we also wandered off trails to picnic by a small stream, climbed upon mesas and among rock formations, and explored hidden canyons in this “Grand Canyon of Texas.” Along that backcountry trail, which can be a bit strenuous in places, we discovered petroglyphs that are not advertised anywhere but are marked by a protective fence. Needless to say, that was a surprise we didn’t expect.

Pro Tips

Again, always bring enough water, especially during the warmer months. With extreme summer heats on the canyon floor, you can easily become overwhelmed by heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, and flash flooding can pose a serious danger. If water begins to rise quickly, move immediately to higher ground.

Remember, this is a wild area, and you may encounter wildlife like rattlesnakes, feral hogs, coyotes, bobcats, deer, and, if you’re lucky, the endangered Texas horned lizard.

Several members of the official State of Texas Longhorn Herd live at the park.

Related Reading:

• 10 Fantastic Experiences At Dinosaur Valley State Park
• 12 Incredible Texas State Parks For Stargazing 
• We Rated The Best Hiking Shoes On The Market

Don’t let summer slip by without going on a family vacation. No need to stress — we’ve done all the work for you by hand-selecting family-friendly locales for fun in the sun. We also did you a solid and found nearby campgrounds and even a couple of RVs you could rent. Ready to plan your summer getaway? Here are nine amazing places to go on a last-minute vacation that the whole family will love!

RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, RVshare has the perfect RV for your vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

1. New Braunfels, Texas

Tucked away in the Texas Hill Country between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels offers fun for the whole family. Rent tubes to float the Guadalupe River at Whitewater Sports or get a break from the Texas heat at Schlitterbahn waterpark. Grown folks will enjoy visiting area wineries and the Heritage Museum of Texas Hill Country. Canyon Lake, the Water Recreation Capital of Texas, is about half an hour away.

Situated along the Guadalupe River, Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country won third place in the 2022 Campspot Awards for Best for Families and second for Top Campground Design. Highlights include a swim-up bar, outdoor movies, water slides, and more.

RVshare Rentals Near New Braunfels:

• 2021 Cruiser Twilight Signature TWS 2600
• 2021 Grand Design Transcend Xplor 247BH

2. Granby, Colorado

At the foothills of Rocky Mountain National Park, Grandby offers summertime fun for everyone. Just 5 miles outside of town on the Colorado River, Lake Granby is a beautiful place for boating, fishing, paddle boarding, and swimming. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it is the third-largest body of water in Colorado.

Formerly known as River Run RV Resort, Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains campground was runner-up in the 2022 Campspot Awards for Top Views. It was also voted as one of the Top Campgrounds for First-Timers thanks to its amenities and access to things that make it easier on first-time campers, such as a store, cabins, and concrete pads.

There’s even a bar and grill onsite so you don’t have to cook! Family-friendly amenities include everything from a pool and hot tubs to a mini bowling alley and live music. Kids will love panning for Colorado gold at the campground’s gem mining sluice.

RVshare Rentals Near Granby:

• 2020 Heartland North Trail 24BHS
• 2021 Forest River RV Wildwood FSX 179DBK

3. Coos Bay, Oregon

Cute as can be, the Sun Outdoors Oceanside RV Resort & Campground sits on the Pacific Ocean in the charming small town of Coos Bay. This section of the Oregon coast is dubbed Oregon Adventure Coast (OAC) for its abundance of water and outdoor activities. Explore the tide pools on the pet-friendly beach. Kayak, scuba dive, surf, fish, crab, and clam. Prep your catches at the campsite’s crab cleaning and cooking station.

Oregon is home to some beautiful state parks. Explore nearby Yoakam Point State Park and Sunset Bay State Park. Take the north cove trail at nearby Cape Arago State Park to see the colonies of seals and sea lions on Shell Island, part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, a designated National Wilderness Area.

RVshare Rentals Near Coos Bay:

• 2021 Forest River RV Cherokee Wolf Pup 16BHS, RV Rental in Gold Hill
• 2021 Coachmen RV Pursuit 31TS 

4. Winter Harbor, Maine

Don’t let the name fool you, Winter Harbor is also great in the summer! Located on the water in this traditional Maine fishing village, MainStay Cottages & RV Park borders the Schoodic section of Acadia National Park. While Acadia is among the most popular parks in the nation, the southern tip of the peninsula is the least visited portion of the park. The 6-mile drive along Schoodic Loop Road is sure to wow you with beautiful glimpses of Cadillac Mountain and Mount Desert Island. The area is also very popular for cyclists as there are fewer people and flat roads.

The campground is also on the Henry Cove, which opens to the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy freshly caught Maine lobster for dinner. Cruise along Downeast Maine’s rugged coastline on a sea tour. Swimming, golf, fishing, bike rentals, and kayak rentals are all conveniently located nearby.

RVshare Rentals Near Winter Harbor:

• 2021 Lance Travel Trailer 2465
• 2017 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds 24C

5. Klamath, California

About as northern California as you can get, Klamath is located on the Klamath River off the 101 just above the Redwood National and State Parks. Klamath River RV Park offers views of these ancient trees as well as plenty of hiking. There are several nearby public beaches for fishing, swimming, and water sports.

The area offers tons of adventure and photo opportunities. At the Trees of Mystery, get your picture taken with the 49-foot statue of Paul Bunyan and the 35-foot statue of his companion, Babe the Blue Ox. Get a bird’- eye view from the 100-foot high Sky Walk at the Trees of Mystery’s Redwood Canopy Trail. Take a picture of your car in a tree tunnel at one of the only drive-through redwood tree spots left in California, the Klamath Tour Thru Tree.

Explore the Klamath River by jet boat or paddle in an ohl-we-yoch, a traditional dug-out canoe. Pack a picnic and take in the incredible vistas at Klamath River Overlook, where the river meets the Pacific. The California Coastal Trail (CCT) offers spectacular seaside hiking nearby.

RVshare Rentals Near Klamath:

• 2015 Palomino PaloMini 180FB
• 2021 Forest River RV Cherokee 264DBH

6. Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Park your camper just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Stonebridge RV Resort on the less-crowded edge of the Great Smoky Mountains. Family-friendly amenities include a pool, events, and games. Motorcyle enthusiasts will appreciate Maggie Valley’s Wheels Through Time Transportation Museum.

Visit Clingmans Dome — the highest point in the Smokies. Spend a day in Asheville at the Biltmore and check out the mountain town’s restaurants and breweries.

RVshare Rentals Near Maggie Valley:

• 2021 Jayco Jay Flight 26BH
• 2021 Keystone RV Hideout 38BHDS

7. Medora, North Dakota

Cottonwood Campground is part of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in quaint Medora. The Badlands make for a wonderful backdrop for everything from hiking to golfing. Tee off at the Bully Pulpit Golf Course and bike the Maah Daah Hey Trail. Get tickets to the Medora Musical and eat at Pitchfork Fondue.

Find out why TravelAwaits writer Robyne Stevenson contends that you simply must visit the Dakotas’ national parks in an RV.

Pro Tip: The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally runs for two weeks in August. Campgrounds and the parks will be filled with bikes and bikers.

RVshare Rentals Near Medora:

• 2021 Prime Time RV Tracer 24DBS 
• 2021 Forest River RV Cherokee Wolf Pack 365PACK16 Toy Hauler

8. Garden City, Utah

Sun Outdoors Garden City Utah features a pool and has a beach on Bear Lake, also known as the Caribbean of the Rockies. There is also golfing available at nearby Bear Lake Golf Course. It’s also very convenient to the beautiful Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest.

Garden City is the self-proclaimed Raspberry Shake Capital of the West. If you go during the first week of August, you may get to experience the annual Bear Lake Raspberry Days festival, which hosts family fun activities such as a craft fair, golf tournament, parade, kids’ games, a pie-eating contest, live music, rodeos, a 5K Fun Run, a Boat Light Parade, and fireworks.

RVshare Rentals Near Garden City:

• 2020 KZ Sportsmen SE 301BHSE
• 2020 Thor Windsport – ZOR’s THOR

9. Ketchum, Idaho

Perched at an elevation of 6,300 feet, Easley Campground is situated on Big Wood River, bordering the Sawtooth National Forest. In addition to water access and beautiful views, the campground offers fishing, hiking, and mineral hot springs-filled swimming pools and hot tubs.

The area is also near Bald Mountain within Sun Valley Ski Resort and Boulder Peak, the first of the impressive Boulder Mountains one sees when driving north along Highway 75.

RVshare Rentals Near Ketchum:

• 2017 Keystone RV Cougar Half-Ton Series 24SABWE
• 2020 KZ Durango Half-Ton D283RLT

Related Reading:

• The Best Campgrounds Near The Water (And How To Book Them Now!)

My love of backpacking began when I was a teenager. Unlike taking a day hike, backpacking offered adventure as you packed everything you need to spend a night or more in the woods on your back and spend the night sleeping under the stars next to a stream, a rushing waterfall, or on a rocky bluff, the sounds of nature surrounding you.

Over the years, life got in the way and there never seemed to be enough time to get away so my love of backpacking was pushed to the backburner. Now that I have retired, I have the time and want to try it again. Trouble is, I’m not that spry teenager anymore. My knees pop, snap, and ache. My back isn’t limber anymore. But the trail is calling. 

Backpacking is an excellent way to feel rejuvenated, take you to landscapes and nature that only a hiking trail can, and even challenge you. It can be as simple as spending one night on a trail in a local state park where they offer backcountry camping to something truly challenging like hiking the entire Appalachian Trail (A.T.) from Georgia to Maine. 

One thing is for certain: it is a fun, rewarding, and satisfying sport that those of us over 50 can enjoy far into our golden years.

Not convinced that you’re never too old to backpack? Well, a good friend of mine, M.J. Eberhart (better known by his hiking moniker, Nimblewill Nomad) recently completed hiking the A.T. from Alabama to Maine at the age of 83, becoming the oldest man to do so.

Here are eight tips to get you started on your own journey.

1. The Joy Of Backpacking Over 50

Besides exploring nature, there are many other benefits associated with backpacking:

• Being physically active is good for your mind and body.
• It improves your cardiovascular health.
• Builds strong muscles.
• Increases cognitive function.
• It’s therapeutic, allowing you to get away from the everyday grind and immerse yourself in nature.
• Builds confidence in yourself and your abilities. 

2. Getting In Shape 

Before you lace up those boots and set one foot on the trail, get to know your body and your physical condition, and don’t sugarcoat it. Be honest with yourself. Are you having some knee or back aches? Are you a bit overweight? How is your stamina?

Always start your adventure with your personal physician. Tell them what you are planning to do and get the low down on your physical condition. Be sure to ask their advice for preparing your body for the adventures ahead.

3. Start With The Basics 

If you have never taken even a day hike before, start by walking your neighborhood and gradually increase your distance.

When you’re ready to move on to something more challenging, take your walk to the nearest park or state park and take day hikes of varying degrees of difficulty. Again, begin with easy trails and work your way up to the more difficult but be sure to take hikes that have something of interest to spur you on like a waterfall, panoramic view, or history.

From there, it’s time to start taking easy overnight treks. Using the same process, build yourself up to longer stays in the woods. But before you can do that overnighter, you need to get some basic gear and do a little more planning.

4. Gear Basics 

You have to remember that you will be carrying everything you need on your back. Many people give up backpacking after their first trip because they carry literally everything — cast iron skillets, large four-person tents, radios, you name it. It’s not good and is usually the end of their backpacking adventures.

The idea is to strike a balance between packing light and still being comfortable. There is a science to buying the right gear for your adventure — tents, sleeping bags, food, etc. The American Hiking Society is one of the best sources for learning the intricacies involved in making the best choices for backpacking gear and making your first backpacking trip enjoyable and comfortable.

There are a few essentials you need to really focus on. The first is water, a backpacker’s best friend and worst enemy.

It’s the hiker’s best friend because drinking enough water on a hike is essential to keep you hydrated and healthy. It’s their worst enemy because it is very heavy to carry.

A good rule of thumb is to drink one half-liter of water per hour of moderate activity in moderate temperatures. Increase or decrease the amount depending on the hike’s difficulty and the outside temperature. Be sure to add electrolytes to your water to help with hydration.

Do not drink from any water source on the trail without first purifying it either through a filter or with chemicals. Illnesses from water-borne germs like giardia are not a laughing matter. While it is treatable and rarely fatal, the physical toll it takes on your body is not fun.

Talk with the local outfitter about water filters for your pack or water bottle. The go-to magazine for backpackers, Backpacker Magazine, does an annual review of the latest filters that will also help you make the right choice.

Always carry basic communications — a cell phone and GPS unit. Cell phones are OK to a point, but you are never sure if you will have a signal or not, and of course, the batteries die.

Don’t ever use your phone as a GPS device. Again, lack of signal is the problem and can leave you stranded out in the backcountry. It also drains batteries quickly. Instead, opt for a GPS device. Prices start at $100 for the basic Garmin GPS Map 64ST.

Even with a good GPS unit (and having learned how to use it), there is still one thing you should learn before your big adventure…

5. Learn Orienteering 

A GPS is good, but you can still lose the signal or the batteries can die. It’s a good idea to learn orienteering — the use of a traditional map and compass. Oh, and be sure to carry them with you on your hike.

National topographic maps for anywhere in the country are available online from the U.S. Geological Survey as well as local outfitters who can instruct you on the art of orienteering or guide you to someone who can teach you.

6. Make Informed Decisions About Your Trek 

As you see, planning is everything for a successful backpacking trip. But there is more to it than just the gear you carry.

Of course, you want to make your backpacking trip memorable and experience all that nature has to offer, but you need to know your limits.

Good trail guides and maps will tell you the degree of difficulty of a trail. But that is all subjective and usually is based on the author’s experience and condition, which may not be the same as yours.

With a good trail guide like those found on AllTrails or an app, you can look at the map and the accompanying elevation gain to get a sense of what kind of climbing you are in for on the hike you choose to take.

Also consider the length of the hike. Sure, the average person can walk 2 or 2.5-miles an hour on level ground, but add in climbing ridges and mountains and fording streams, and unless you are in top condition, your speed will drop significantly and a shorter distance overnight hike may be in order.

Locate water sources along the trail before you head out. Are there plenty of streams and springs where you can filter water? That will help lighten the load, but still always carry plenty with you. You never know when that water source will be dry.

7. Be Weather Wise

Check the weather before heading out. If severe storms are predicted, don’t chance it.

8. Final Tips Before You Hit The Trail

Never hike alone. I have many backpacking friends who go solo, but it’s not a good idea. Emergencies happen on the trail and having someone with you could be the difference between life and death.

Pack along a first aid kit and know how to use it.

Wherever you go, let others know of your plans — when you will be at the trailhead, what route you are taking on the trail, where you will be spending the night, and what time they can expect you to return home.

Before going on your first overnight, consider doing a shakedown hike of your gear. Load your pack with everything you plan on taking with you and do a day hike through a local park or state park. Walk a distance. Is the pack comfortable or too heavy? Take the gear out and try it to make sure it works and that it is not too difficult to operate on the trail.

And with that, you are ready to lace up the boots, strap on the pack, grab the hiking poles, and take your first backpacking trip. Happy trails!

Texas has plenty of quirky, unique, and offbeat places to stay across its wide-open spaces. Stay in these quirky places in Marfa, Terlingua, or Marathon when visiting Big Bend National Park, or these incredible motel makeovers in Austin that boast to “Keep Austin Weird.” There’s a remote spot when you visit Palo Duro Canyon in the panhandle or the unique places in the Hill Country or Lost Pines area. Please sit back, pour your favorite beverage, and let’s explore these unique and quirky places to stay in Texas.

1. El Cosmico In Marfa

Artistic vintage trailers, tepees, Bushtec tents, yurts, and casitas are just some of the offbeat accommodations available at El Cosmico, a hotel and campground on 21 acres just outside the town of Marfa in far-southwest Texas. This communal retreat by Liz Lambert, founder of Bunkhouse, cultivates a temporary escape for adventurers and wanderers out in the wide-open spaces, under a vast West Texas sky.

We stayed in one of the 13 restored vintage mid-20^th century trailers like Airstream, Vagabond, and Kozy Coach, featuring varnished birch interiors with vibrant décor and furnishings. Ours came equipped with all the comforts of home: a private kitchen, minibar, bathroom, and heating and air conditioning.

Five 22-foot tepees each have an electric fire pit. The spacious Bushtec tents combine 384 square feet of cabin life boasting wood floors, a king bed, seating area, vintage soaking tub, front and back decks, and a private outdoor shower. Sioux-style tepees, 21 safari wall tents, and two yurts are for those looking for a more rustic experience, with access to the communal outdoor kitchen and bathhouse. The new Jupe tent is coming soon.

The El Cosmico Provision Company sells camping tools, books, apparel, wellness products, and decorative pieces. You can rent the relaxing Dutch wood-fired hot tubs. Take advantage of the communal outdoor kitchen equipped with a grill, cookware, utensils, and fridge. You’ll find complimentary Wi-Fi in the lounge, plus bicycles available for rent. El Cosmico is a pet-friendly establishment.

2. Hotel San Jose In Austin

Constructed in the 1930s as a roadside motor court hotel, Hotel San Jose is a re-imagined 40-room property by hotelier Liz Lambert, uniquely Texan and a quintessential Austin experience.

The hotel guestrooms feature seven room styles, including spacious courtyard suites with balconies, double queens, petite suites, grand suites, and grand standards. Every room is different with concrete floors, minimalist décor, Texas pine handmade furniture, custom-made linens, kimono bathrobes, and Malin + Goetz bath amenities, all reflecting the serenity of the landscape. I enjoyed the curated minibar stocked with local and global goodies.

Surrounded by fig ivy-covered stucco walls, the guest rooms connect to the landscaped garden courtyard via gravel walkways. A private pool hidden by black bamboo connects to the courtyard and lobby bar featuring a unique selection of wine, beer, and small plates. The host venue for the evening programming is the hotel’s parking lot, next to Jo’s Coffee, a local institution for coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and breakfast tacos — a coveted spot for gathering and people watching.

Have fun exploring the boutique with kimonos, t-shirts, posters, koozies, dog toys, teapots, and candles. Add books, caps, sunglasses, and totes to the mix, and you’ve got gift shopping covered.

You’ll find a meeting room, bike rentals, lending library, vintage typewriter to use, and a Polaroid camera to borrow with film to purchase. The hotel sponsors the annual South by San Jose festival coinciding with Austin’s South by Southwest event, featuring live bands in the parking lot.

3. Austin Motel

Living up to the concept of “Keeping Austin Weird” and the Bunkhouse design touch, the Austin Motel is in the heart of South Congress’s shops, restaurants, and clubs. The first thing you’ll notice is the iconic neon signage. Operating as a motel since 1938, you’ll find 41 rooms, a bar, a 1950s-style outdoor pool, and modern amenities set in mid-century roadside motel architecture reflecting the property’s unique history.

The 41 hotel guest rooms feature seven room types, including three suites, three poolside kings, plus king, queens, and full bedrooms. You’ll find custom playful vinyl tufted beds, long wall-mounted custom desks, and 1950s-style seating. Even the push button phones and vintage silk-screened music posters fit into the mid-century vibe and made me smile.

The iconic kidney-shaped pool and lounge area centered on the property have mid-century chairs, tables, and lounges under classic red and white umbrellas. The check-in area is a Bodega-style lobby with coolers and beverages, snacks, and a retail store offering a curated collection of travel accessories, hotel memorabilia, and pool accessories.

Pro Tip: The hotel’s all-day restaurant, Joann’s Fine Foods, boasts Austin Tex-Mex fare and California eats in a 1970s diner vibe. Enjoy tacos, hearty sandwiches and salads, grilled meats and seafood, and updated Mexican favorites. Sip daily juices, sangrias, and specialty cocktails featuring mezcal and tequila, plus an extensive beer and wine list.

4. Cypress Valley Treehouses In Spicewood

Take glamping to an entirely new level at Cypress Valley Treehouses in Spicewood, a premier Texas Hill Country destination for treehouse rentals and outdoor adventures. Sleep in a treehouse or rest in a hammock on your balcony under the shaded trees. Explore the spring-fed creek, swim in the pool, and wander through the flower gardens in the spring and summer.

I’ve always dreamed of sleeping in a treehouse, and we had an opportunity to do just that. Nested in ancient cypress trees, you can stargaze, listen to the birds, or chase hundreds of fireflies in the creek below.

The Yoki, Juniper, Lofthaven, and Willow treehouses each sleep two, and the Nest sleeps four guests but can accommodate up to six. The treehouses come complete with a king bed, small kitchenette, spacious living and dining area, and a small bathhouse and soaking tub across the bridge. The Nest has two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchenette, and dining room. Rinse off under the stars at the outside shower. A small bridge connects you to your private bathhouse with a bath/shower combination.

The Ranch House is on the ground floor, but the main room feels like a treehouse as you peer through the treetops, an excellent place for a small family reunion. The Ranch House sleeps up to 15.

Pro Tip: Nearby, enjoy wine tasting at Spicewood Vineyards and Stonehouse Vineyards.

5. Eve’s Garden B&B In Marathon

Located in West Texas’s beautiful high mountain desert oasis of Marathon, Eve’s Garden is an innovative organic bed and breakfast and ecology resource center. At the gateway to Big Bend National Park, extensive indoor organic gardens full of blooming roses, bougainvillea, and hundreds of flowers surround this adobe-style bed and breakfast. The private guest rooms open to a central pond, covered courtyard, and vintage tearoom.

“Thoughtfulness,” they say, is the goal to motivate you to pursue mindful projects and realize that you can make a difference. You’ll see an adobe hacienda with contemporary Mexican color treatments.

Eve’s Garden offers seven distinctly different rooms, some with domed ceilings, 4-foot mini vaults, or a big barrel vault featuring arches, bright colors, and special touches. Each room comes with a heating and cooling system, mini fridge, private bathroom, a reading chair, and a romantic faux fireplace. Three rooms have private patios, six open onto an interior courtyard with a singing fountain, while the seventh, the Orchard Room, faces a small fruit orchard. Enjoy special fresh floral arrangements from Kate’s organic greenhouse.

Pro Tip: Your room includes a casual, self-serve gourmet breakfast to get you on your way to Big Bend National Park.

6. The Goodnight Cabin At Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Located on the canyon rim with an incredible sunset view, the Goodnight Cabin at Palo Duro Canyon State Park boasts rustic amenities and a canopy of stars that fill the night sky. Stairs lead down to the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) stone cabin, surrounded by a privacy fence on three sides.

The cabin sleeps four and features a cooling and heating unit, fireplace, kitchenette with microwave, small refrigerator, a queen bed, and two twin beds with linens. There’s nothing fancy about the bathroom with a sink, shower, and toilet. You’ll spend most of your time outside at the picnic table and outdoor grill with gorgeous views of Palo Duro Canyon. If there is a burn ban, no fires are allowed. No pets are allowed either.

Pro Tip: Purchase a Texas State Park Pass and receive free year-long entry to more than 80 state parks for you and guests

7. The Reserve At Greenleaf In Bastrop

Nestled in the outskirts of Austin, in the Lost Pines at Bastrop, the Reserve at the Greenleaf estate is the place to regenerate, spend time in the lost pines, hike, kayak, and watch the sunset at the communal fire pit as you roast marshmallows and make s’mores.

Four luxury yurt cabins with private bathrooms offer all the luxurious hotel amenities. Ours was the Agave, 450 square feet, a king bed with luxury bedding, a small dining area for two, a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and rainfall showerhead, a conventional flush toilet, and windows connecting you to the trees outside.

You’ll find a Burkee-filtered water feature and a great coffee bar with French press, organic coffee, and loose-leaf teas. A refrigerator comes stocked with Italian sodas and water, and snacks fill a basket including all the fixings for s’mores.

I loved the convenient bedside USB ports, high speed, and ensuite WiFi. There’s a fully adjustable air conditioning and heating unit for your comfort.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-century modern, or rustic accomodations, you’ll find comfort at these quirky Texas retreats.

For more Texas content like this, be sure to check out these stories: 

• How To Spend A Perfect Day In The Lavender Capital Of Texas
• 12 Incredible Things To Do In Quaint Dripping Springs, Texas
• 11 Texas Hill Country Locations Retirees Will Love

Now that we’re all free to move about the country again, gas prices are telling us otherwise. Whether towing a camper or driving an RV, skyrocketing gas prices have those with road trips planned this summer thinking again.

But there’s still hope for those who were looking forward to doing a little camping soon! RVshare, the peer-to-peer RV marketplace will deliver an RV to the spot of your choice.

That’s right, the company that brought you all of the fun of an RV without the maintenance and expense of ownership will also bring that RV to you! Not only do you not have to worry about filling up the tank, but you also don’t have to worry about how to tow/drive or park it. They’ll even set up the camper for you, so it’s ready when you are!

Save Money On Fuel With RVshare Delivery

Hillary White, RVshare’s PR manager, tells us how campers are saving money on fuel by using their RV delivery service: “At RVshare, bookings have continued to rise in line with seasonal expectations in March, despite higher fuel prices. Many travelers are considering having their RVs delivered to a campground of their choice or targeting trips closer to home to save money on fuel. March booked trips are on pace to cover 9 percent fewer miles per trip than trips booked in February.

With RV travel, groups and families make memories through the time they spend together and not so much because of how far they venture from home. The average RV trip is around 300 miles, and the average driveable RV gets 10 miles/gallon. So, with fuel prices up $2 a gallon compared to last year, an RV trip will cost an extra $60 this year. While this increased cost is certainly a consideration for groups and families taking RV trips this year, RV travel continues to be a great value travel option compared to flights, cruises, and other travel options.”

Explore Your Own Backyard

Local travel is budget-friendly, but it doesn’t have to be boring. Odds are that there’s a beautiful state park, beach, or cool landmark within a few hours of where you live. Exploring your own backyard has other advantages, too. Not only are you saving money at the pump, but it’s also eco-friendly. Sometimes you can spend a whole day just getting to where you’re going, but planning a trip to somewhere nearby means you can get away quickly, even if its just for the weekend.

Plus, having an RV delivered is much easier to plan than coordinating flights, hotels, and so on. There’s also always the option of renting a stationary RV. This means you stay in the RV wherever it’s parked — whether it be a campground or other cool piece of land or close to a popular event.

Top 10 States With The Highest Gas Prices And Where To Camp

According to AAA, gas price averages are the highest in the following 10 states. Here are some great places to camp in each state, and an RV rental with delivery available near each place.

California

One of the most visited national parks in the U.S., Yosemite National Park is home to numerous waterfalls, ancient sequoia trees, deep valleys, giant meadows, vast sections of wilderness, and an abundance of wildlife. The park’s world-famous granite cliffs, Half Dome and El Capitan, are its most prominent features. Note that reservations are required to camp in the park.

Recommended RV: 2020 Keystone RV Bullet Travel Trailer

Hawaii

Wake up to the sound of waves lapping up against the shore at Maui’s Papalaua Wayside Park. Purchase a permit online. Heads up: This park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and has a maximum stay of up to four days.

Recommended RV: 2013 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds 24C

Nevada

Home to soaring mountains, alpine lakes, and fiery-colored cliffs, Valley of Fire State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Nevada. While you’re there, be sure to hike the scenic Fire Wave Trail.

Recommended RV: 2018 Dutchmen RV Coleman Lantern Series

Washington

Open up your RV door to the smell of evergreens on Washington state’s Olympic Peninsula. Olympic National Park features glacier-capped mountains, rainforests, and more than 70 miles of wild coastline. Most of the camping inside the park is limited to tents and campers 21 feet in length or shorter. Camp alongside alpacas, llamas, sheep, guinea hens, turkeys, and chickens at Run with the Alpacas Camp. Just 17 miles from the national park, the 20-acre alpaca rescue non-profit has 20 campsites.

Recommended RV: 2021 Forest River Cascade

Alaska

Situated on the bluff overlooking the famous Kenai River and Cook Inlet, Diamond M Ranch Resort makes for a perfect home base for your Alaskan adventure with easy day trips to Seward or Homer. Offering full hook-up RV sites, it was named one of the best places to camp in 2022.

Recommended RV: 2021 Venture RV SportTrek 251VRK

Oregon

Also named one of the best places to camp in 2022, Gorge Base Camp is actually located in Washington state, but it overlooks the Oregon town of Hood River, which is nestled between the Columbia River Gorge and the Cascades.

Recommended RV: 2019 Cruiser Fun Finder

Arizona

Hike, mountain bike, and fish at Sedona’s Rancho Sedona RV Park. This upscale resort town is home to gorgeous red sandstone formations, world-famous vortexes, restaurants in spectacular settings, and other must-see spots.

Recommended RV: 2018 Keystone RV Passport Elite

Illinois

About an hour and a half outside of Chicago, nearly 5,000 acres of preserved wooded trails and towering bluffs lie near the confluence of the Vermilion and Illinois rivers. Starved Rock State Park has 129 campsites with cement pads for RVs. Note that alcohol is prohibited at Starved Rock. If that’s an issue, check out nearby Pleasant Creek Campground.

Recommended RV: 2021 Airstream Bambi

New York

Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, the town of Lake George sits on the southwestern tip of the long, narrow lake of the same name. Lake George RV Park is a wooded retreat, boasting 400 RV campsites on over 120 peaceful acres. In the fall, families can go apple picking at nearby orchards.

Recommended RV: 2020 Grand Design Reflection 31MB

Connecticut

Whether you want to explore beautiful hikes or Connecticut’s largest cities, camping is a great way to experience New England. RVshare recommends staying at Charlie Brown Campground, which is nestled among rolling hills, sleepy rivers, and over 12,000 acres of forests and state parklands. Located in Eastford, Connecticut, this seasonal family-friendly campground is less than 40 miles from Hartford and Providence.

Recommended RV: 2022 Coachmen RV Catalina Legacy

RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, RVshare has the perfect RV for your vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

Related Reading:

1. 10 Amazing U.S. Campgrounds Beloved By RVers (2021)
2. 22 Best Places To Camp In 2022
3. 10 Unique Rustic Campsites Near U.S. National Parks

National parks have become so popular recently that several are requiring reservations in 2022. Reservations for hotels inside the parks and national park campsites fill up months in advance.

Hipcamp offers a unique solution for campers, glampers, RVers: private-land camping. Outdoor enthusiasts can find unique stays at a moment’s notice within close proximity of national parks. Read on to discover cool campsites near popular parks such as Joshua Tree, the Smoky Mountains, Hot Springs, Big Bend, Zion, and Glacier.

1. S K Y C A M P

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Situated high on the hills of the Bartlett Mountain Range, just 6 miles from Joshua Tree National Park, S K Y C A M P offers picturesque panoramic views of the desert. With its hammock chairs and rustic setting, this campground puts the hip in Hipcamp. Each of its four sites has a picnic table, charcoal grill, and fire pit.

Wake up to the gorgeous desert sunrise, take an eye-opening cold outdoor shower, and set out for a day of hiking. At night, snuggle up and stargaze in the Sky Swing. Surrounded by open space, the campground sits next to BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land. The village of Joshua Tree offers unique options for dining and shopping just a few miles down the road.

2. Pinnacles Border Site

Pinnacles National Park, California

Located just east of the Salinas Valley, Pinnacles National Park is lesser-known than some of its Californian counterparts, but its mountain views, caves, and jutting rocks and boulders are absolutely breathtaking. Birdwatchers flock to the national park for a chance to spot the endangered California condor. With looks like a classic cartoon vulture and a wingspan of over 9 feet, the land bird is the largest in North America.

After a day of hiking or rock climbing, boondock at Pinnacles Border Site. The campground and its 10 campsites are just 10 minutes from the park. Car, tent, or small (less than 20-feet) RV camping is recommended. The campground is in a wide-open field, which allows for stellar stargazing, but no shade during the day. Firewood is provided for fire pits. There is a portapotty, but no potable water, showers, or Wi-Fi.

3. The Silo At Little River Barn

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

After a day of exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, crash at The Silo At Little River Barn, one of the most unique glamping experiences on Hipcamp. Located just outside Maryville, Tennessee — 15 minutes from the national park entrance — the silo and the 100-plus-year-old barn it is attached to are nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Pack light — a curved staircase leads up four floors. Each floor is its own room. A modest kitchen area is on the first floor, the bathroom with a shower is on the second, the bedroom with a Murphy bed is on the third, and on the top, a lounge is surrounded with 360-degree views of the countryside.

4. Erwin Estate High Point

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

After exploring the hiking trails, springs, and bathhouses of Hot Springs National Park, drive 15 minutes to camp out at Erwin Estate High Point in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. This is primitive camping — which means no water or electricity — but two little portable potties are provided. Pitch your tent on the platform, watch the sun go down from the porch swing that hangs underneath it, and build a fire in the fire pit.

Cattle roam the 250-acre property, which is home to eagles, white-tail deer, wild hogs, birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. Pack your fishing pole to rip some lip in the onsite catch-and-release natural spring pond. More fishing as well as boating, canoeing, and kayaking can be done at a nearby river and lake. Hunt for quartz in this mineral-rich area. The high elevation makes for great drone and kite flying.

5. “The Oasis” At Paisano Azul Ranch 

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Featuring mountains of immense lava rock formations, fossil-filled Chihuahuan Desert expanses, and deep, narrow canyons carved in limestone layers by the Rio Grande River, the geological wonder that is Big Bend National Park borders Mexico in southwest Texas. After hiking, backpacking, river trips, and dirt road adventures, drive a few miles to crash at “The Oasis” at Paisano Azul Ranch.

On a peaceful hillside overlooking the incredible Terlingua Creek, this quiet desert campground offers views of plateaus that lead to the Chisos Mountains at Big Bend National Park. Two flushing portable potties are provided for the campground’s 11 sites. Stay connected with great cell reception and Wi-Fi.

Open skies allow for amazing sunsets, sunrises, and stargazing. Outdoor adventures include hiking and biking, canoeing and kayaking, off-roading and horseback riding, and swimming and visiting hot springs. Restaurants, galleries, and live music can all be found in the nearby town of Terlingua.

6. Ranchito Feliz

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Our readers named Bryce Canyon as one of the top national parks in the U.S. last summer. Only 78 miles from Zion National Park, the smallest of Utah’s Mighty Five is home to the largest collections of hoodoos in the world. It’s also known for hiking, dark sky viewing, and RV camping.

Set up camp at Ranchito Feliz among birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals like lions, coyotes, and elk. Just 8 miles from the park in the middle of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, this secluded, fossil-filled location is surrounded by red cliffs with a river to the south. The campsite does not have electricity, but it does have shared restrooms, potable water, sinks, a cold shower, and fire rings.

7. Glacier Park HipCamp

Glacier National Park, Montana

Known for its rugged mountains, spectacular lakes, and more than 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park saw a record number of visitors in 2021. This led it to implement a ticketed timed-entry system which continues in 2022. Boasting 25 glaciers, the park also hosts the largest population of grizzly bears in the lower 48 states. Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of its most popular attractions.

Several RV campgrounds dot the area. Glacier Park HipCamp lies less than 6 miles from the park entrance. Nestled on 37 peaceful acres, the quiet campground is home to beautiful meadows, forested trails, three ponds, a creek, stunning views, and wildlife. Campers are asked to be “bear aware.” While there are no hookups, campsites include a campfire ring, picnic table, and partial shade from deciduous trees. Campers share a vault toilet. Bike or drive to nearby attractions and restaurants.

8. Painted Desert Ranger Cabin 

Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

It’d be hard to believe that the Arizona desert was once a lush tropical rainforest were it not for the 225-million-year-old fossilized trees that have been preserved in Petrified Forest National Park. Decorated with petroglyphs, the Painted Desert is full of flat-topped mesas and sculpted buttes. One of the best Dark Sky Places in the state, these otherworldly badlands offer amazing stargazing opportunities.

Technically a one-room cabin instead of a campground, Painted Desert Ranger Cabin lies 6 miles from the national park. Enjoy beautiful views of the Painted Desert wilderness from the quiet serenity of this cozy, remote cabin. Although there is a flush toilet and queen-sized bed, this is backcountry camping. Bring your own food, sleeping bags and/or linens, firewood, toilet paper, and drinking water.

9. Run With The Alpacas Camp 

Olympic National Park, Washington

Several distinct ecosystems make up the close-to-1-million acres of Washington State’s Olympic National Park. The vast wilderness features glacier-capped mountains, old-growth temperate rainforests, and more than 70 miles of wild coastline. TravelAwaits writer Robyne Stevenson contends that you must visit the Olympic Peninsula in an RV.

As if this experience isn’t cool enough, Run with the Alpacas Camp is adding cutie alpacas to the equation. Just 17 miles from the national park, the 20-acre Alpaca Rescue non-profit offers 20 campsites for tents, van and truck campers, trailers, and RVs. Llamas, sheep, guinea hens, turkeys, and chickens keep the alpacas company. Sign up for a 1-hour tour to hand feed and get up-close-and-personal with them. And yes, you can volunteer here too. Visit during “cria season” from mid-June to the end of August to catch the baby alpacas! 

10. Watchman Campground 

Zion National Park, Utah

The Virgin River runs through the midst of a spectacular collection of canyons and red sandstone peaks at Zion National Park in southern Utah. Zion has an abundance of activities for everyone, from experienced backpacking hikers and climbers to those who enjoy walking and visiting museums.

After a day of hiking, head to Watchman Campground less than 5 miles from the park entrance. Featuring unreal views of Zion monoliths, insane sunsets, and wildlife encounters, this peaceful campground offers 179 sites for tents, van and truck campers, trailers, and RVs. Showers are not available, but real restrooms made of tile and granite are. Shuttles run daily to and from the park. Walk to Springdale to treat yourself to a cold one, grab some gear, and peruse shops filled with Native American antiques.

The Japanese practice something called shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. Despite the ritual’s name, no swimsuit is required, and you don’t need to get wet.

Forest bathing is an opportunity to disconnect from hectic schedules and 21st-century distractions and plug into nature. Simply spending time outside in the woods (minus your cell phone, of course) has been linked to lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system, and improved overall well-being. And as a nation with one of the highest life expectancies in the world, the Land of the Rising Sun might be on to something!

Imagine the benefits of camping under tall oaks, surrounded by fragrant pines. You’re likely to rise naturally with the sun (instead of hitting the snooze button several times), spend an active day outdoors (rather than sitting in front of a computer), and sleep soundly under the stars (and not stay up too late binge-watching Netflix). That is, unless you find a sleeping bag uncomfortable and the thought of a pit toilet stresses you out.

Thankfully, there’s glamping. This luxurious take on tent camping is like forest bathing with benefits. From cute cabins to round yurts, with amenities like luxurious linens and solar-powered lighting, these nine incredible glamping destinations in Upstate New York put the glam in glamping.

1. Camp Orenda, Johnsburg

When it comes to soaking up the benefits of forest bathing, Camp Orenda in the Adirondack Mountains has you covered (and then some). Breathe in the benefits of the trees surrounding the six canvas cabins while snuggled under a down comforter in a real queen-size bed. Enjoy a hot shower under a canopy of old-growth trees in the cedar-frame outdoor shower. (And if you’re wondering about the toilets, there are heated seats and a sink with running water to wash up.)

Continue to disconnect, unwind, and relax by leaving the cooking to the Camp Orenda staff. That’s right — your nightly canvas cabin rental includes three meals a day. Enjoy a hearty farm-to-table dinner cooked in a cast-iron skillet or on a griddle over an open flame with accommodations for dietary restrictions. In the morning, start your day with a continental breakfast plus fruit and yogurt, and enjoy your lunch on-site or request it packed up as a picnic.

Access to kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and mountain bikes is also included in your cabin rental at Camp Orenda.

2. Firelight Camps, Ithaca

Less than 10 minutes from downtown Ithaca, the luxurious tents at Firelight Camps feel worlds away. With smooth hardwood floors underfoot and bird’s-eye views from a private balcony, your safari tent among the trees may make you feel as if you’ve been transported to another continent.

You’ll sleep soundly in a plush king or queen bed with multilayered bedding to accommodate the Upstate New York temperatures. A bathhouse with flushing toilets and hot showers is just a short walk from each safari tent. And a delicious, locally sourced breakfast is served each morning. Firelight Camps calls it a continental breakfast, but I call it “continental plus,” because it goes beyond the typical coffee, tea, and pastries by including oatmeal and hard-boiled eggs.

While each tent includes battery-powered lanterns, a few tents have electric heaters, floor lamps, and power outlets. If you are concerned about evening temperatures dipping below 60 degrees (a common occurrence in Upstate New York, especially in late spring and early fall), you may want to opt for one of the electrified options. Just don’t get too connected to your electronics and miss the chance to connect with nature!

3. Gather Greene, Coxsackie

While the cabins at Gather Greene are about the size of an affordable hotel room in New York City, they offer all of the same comforts while wrapping you in a lullaby sung by nature (rather than a congested city). Each of the 17 wood-and-glass cabins has two windowed walls that frame the wooded mountaintop setting. And these luxury glamping accommodations include a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, flush toilet, sink, and vanity. There’s even a mini-fridge in each cabin, something you won’t always find in a New York City hotel room!

4. Harmony Hill Retreat, East Meredith

While a treehouse yurt sounds like a place where a Dr. Seuss character would live, it’s actually a circular tent designed by Mongolian nomads. (I think it looks a bit like the teepee that Horton stepped on when he heard a Who.) While the Mongolians herding sheep and goats don’t have running water or electricity in their yurts, the accommodations at Harmony Hill are decked out with modern bathrooms, ceiling fans, space heaters, and fully equipped kitchens. But if you’d rather leave the cooking to someone else, Stone & Thistle Farm will deliver farm-fresh meals to you at Harmony Hill.

If you’re seeking a larger accommodation (or don’t think you can adequately forest bathe without a wrap-around porch), Harmony Hill also offers mountain chalet cabins.

5. Hotel Caravana, Amenia

If you’ve dreamed of an Airstream camping experience but don’t have a sleek silver bullet camper (or the right vehicle to tow it), then Hotel Caravana is the glamorous camping destination for you! Enjoy the perfect blend of boutique hotel charm and retro cool with an Airstream rental in Hotel Caravana’s old-school Airstreams.

Each unit in the Airstream hotel is outfitted with a bathroom and shower, sound system, Wi-Fi, heating, and air conditioning. Breakfast snacks are included, and you can either prepare your other meals in the kitchenette or order room service to your Airstream from 3 to 9:30 p.m.

Pro Tip: Not all glamping experiences are the same. For example, some accommodations require glampers to bring their own bedding, so be sure to follow the directions provided by the campsite and plan ahead for a sensational stay.

6. The Old Game Farm, Catskill

What this glamping destination in Upstate New York lacks in glamour (you’ll be using an outdoor camp toilet rather than flush toilet), it makes up for in uniqueness. Located on the site of a 150-acre abandoned zoo, The Old Game Farm offers four secluded campsites with canvas tents, queen-size beds, Adirondack chairs, and fantastic views. While there are no longer wild animals at the zoo, you’re likely to spot wildlife wandering through the woods or grazing in the clearings.

Pro Tips

• If these campsites seem a little too rustic for your taste, The Long Neck Inn has five bed-and-breakfast-style rooms that include private en-suite bathrooms and other modern luxuries.
• Catskill is a lovely town to visit. It made my list of quaint, must-visit towns in the Hudson Valley.

7. A Tiny House Resort, South Cairo

Tiny houses are a big trend, inspiring HGTV shows like Tiny House Hunters, Tiny Luxury, and Tiny House Nation. Check one out for yourself by glamping in one of 11 unique options in New York’s Hudson Valley at A Tiny House Resort. These small glamping spaces in the Catskills are big on luxuries, with flush toilets, showers, full kitchens, Wi-Fi, heating, and air conditioning.

Pro Tip: If you need a bit more space than a tiny house can provide, or you just need to pair your time in nature with the soothing sound of rushing water, consider booking a waterfall rental like a cabin with views of Niobe Falls or a cottage built on the bank of a babbling stream.

8. Treetopia Campground, Catskill

At the Treetopia Campground, you’ll find a smorgasbord of glamping accommodations, including canvas tents and campers. The tent sites include portable flush toilets, and a shower house is just a short walk away. But my favorite thing about the Treetopia Campground is the Airstream Experience. Leave the rig hauling and site set up to someone else with an Airstream rental. The standard Airstream hotel experience is 200 square feet of space with a full bathroom and kitchen. And if that doesn’t sound dreamy enough, the unit is anchored to a wooden deck that includes an outdoor grill, picnic table, seating area, and fire ring.

Need more space? You can super-size your experience by booking the jumbo Airstream hotel with a separate master bedroom at the front of the rig.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting Upstate New York hauling your own Airstream or another type of recreational vehicle, Treetopia Campground also has RV sites with water and electric hook-ups.

9. Yale Manor Yurts, Romulus

Strategically located in the heart of Upstate New York’sFinger Lakes Region, the yurts at Yale Manor blend pastoral lake views and modern amenities as expertly as the region’s winemakers blend grapes into award-winning wines. Enjoy the sun setting over Seneca Lake or unwind in front of the fireplace, taking comfort in the knowledge that you don’t need to hike to a bathhouse. Each of the 700-square-foot circular structures includes a full private bath with a flush toilet, running water, and hot shower.

Pro Tip: You can also stay in one of the Manor’s five bedrooms and enjoy a gourmet morning meal with this bed-and-breakfast alternative.

Whether you’re seeking an experience that’s a few steps up from tent camping or you want all of the conveniences of home in a rustic setting, these nine sites offer some of the best glamping in New York and are sure to help you unwind and reconnect with nature. And who knows — a little forest bathing near one of these luxurious camping accommodations just might add a few years to your life!

Related Reading:

• 13 Must-Visit Quaint Towns In Upstate New York
• 6 Under-The-Radar Towns To Visit In The Hudson Valley
• Our 5 Favorite Escapes From New York City
• And all of our glamping content

When someone says, “Let’s go camping,” do you A) air out the sleeping bags; B) check the RV tire pressure; or C) develop a sudden cold?

Camping is evolving to include everyone from dedicated wilderness backpackers to those that need a comfy bed, hot shower, and flush facilities.

Camping is pervasive on the Mendocino Coast. The variety of campsites and styles might be surprising. You can camp among redwood giants, on a riverbank, a secluded Pacific beach, under a bridge, or glamp in style surrounded by forest and woodlands. You can camp with your horse, or sleep on a working coastal farm.

There is plenty to do while coastal camping. You can enjoy peddling, paddling, hiking, whale watching, birding, surfing, boating, and fishing, in rare and spectacular settings.

1. Camp With Giants

Navarro River Redwoods State Park offers two very extraordinary camping spots. Choose between the redwoods along the Navarro River or on the beach where the Navarro enters the Pacific.

Driving from east to west through Anderson Valley, along Hwy 128, you’ll go through a “redwood tunnel” 11 miles long. It’s called a tunnel because the redwood giants are so tall they only allow dappled sunlight to reach the road. Don’t hurry through the drive. There are pull outs for stopping and smelling the redwoods. Get to know some of the oldest trees on earth.

Camp among redwoods at Paul M. Dimmick Campground. It’s on Highway 128, 6 miles east of CA Hwy 1 and Hwy 128 junction.

This is a small, quiet camping area among redwoods with access to a creek. Tents and RVs (up to 30 feet) are welcome. Group and ADA sites are offered. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit with a grill. Toilets are available.

Water is available but may be turned off during droughts. So be prepared and bring some with you. Refuse receptacles are provided, but the park asks you to pack out your trash when you depart.

Reservations are not always needed, but it’s best to call the park ahead to make a reservation.

Pro Tip: No matter the time of year, plan to dress in layers. Even in summer, it can be cool and damp at night, while it’s hot and humid in the daytime. Winters here are mild but can be foggy.

2. Camp With Driftwood Sculptures

Navarro Beach Campground is also located in Navarro River Redwoods State Park. From Dimmick Campgrounds, continue the 6 miles along Hwy 128 until you reach the junction of CA Hwy 1. Turn west across the bridge. The camping area is less than a mile from there.

This park area is where the Navarro River empties into the Pacific Ocean. The Navarro River deposits lots of driftwood into the sea. It was once used as a logging highway, delivering felled trees to lumber mills downstream. In addition, trees and branches fall into the river via natural means. So this is what locals call a driftwood beach. The wood is taken out to sea where it may drift for years until the right tide returns it to shore, gray and smooth.

Driftwood sculptures are ubiquitous with the sandy beach. I’ve seen everything from small wooden artworks to huge multiroom condos. Collect some wood and build your own. Take photos because the next high tide may return your creation to the sea.

A sandy beach, sand dunes, and wetlands are a part of the landscape. Just offshore are small rocky islands that were once a part of the mainland. Also, you can fish and kayak in the river and ocean.

There are 26 primitive sites. Potable water is not available, so bring your own. Chemical toilets are provided. Campsites are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Pro Tip: Wander through Anderson Valley on Hwy 128. Stop and visit farm stands, cheesemakers, and wineries to fill your picnic basket and cooler for an authentic taste of Mendocino.

3. Camp On A Beach

Pitch your tent where the surf lulls you to sleep. Kayak, SUP, surf, fish, comb the beach, spearfish, snorkel, scuba dive, or sit around an evening fire ring — all on a secluded beach.

The sand beach is wide and compact. First, get nature’s pedicure by walking in the sand and saltwater. Then, get a volleyball or horseshoe tournament started. There’s a playground for the little ones and limited WiFi for all.

Westport Beach & RV Park Campgrounds has beach or wooded tent sites, RV sites, and ocean view cottages. In addition, you’ll find WiFi, a well-stocked store, rental gear, hot showers, restrooms, playgrounds, and laundry.

Pro Tip: Westport Beach is a popular place for groups. Secluded and quiet, it’s often the site of destination weddings. The park owners also have similar campgrounds closer to Mendocino — Caspar Beach & RV Park Campgrounds.

4. Equestrian Camping

Russian Gulch State Park Equestrian Camp has staging areas, corrals, and water troughs provided for “equestrian only” trails and campsites.

Ride the trails through the forest. Tents and RVs are welcome. Only four campsites are available; reserve early. Make reservations by calling the District Office at (707)-937-5804.

Pro Tip: Other equestrian trails are available in the area. One of the most popular is Big River Trail, a few miles away.

5. Farm Camping

Yurt, geodesic dome, and cabin camping are hosted at Oz Farm on the Garcia River. Indulge in Oz Farm’s bounty, hike the forest, swim the river, or explore the coast just minutes away. 

Oz is 100 percent off the grid and fully sustainable. The working farm and cidery always welcome extra help if you have a mind to get your hands in the dirt while visiting.

Pro Tip: The Point Arena Lighthouse and Point Arena-Stornetta Unit of the California Coastal National Monument are 7 miles away. The 152-year-old lighthouse is still guiding the way for maritime vessels. Stornetta’s lands are a geological wonder. You can see the San Andreas Fault where it opens above ground.

6. Camp Under A Bridge

The Pacific Ocean, Albion River, and wetlands border the campgrounds. The wooden Albion River Bridge looms high above, looking a bit like it’s standing on stilts. Launches, docks, and marinas are available for all types of watercraft.

Albion River Campground & Marina is surrounded by water on three sides. It sits at the bottom of the steep and narrow Albion River Gorge, crossed by a 150-foot-high wood bridge.

This is a water world. Fishing, kayaking, and canoeing are popular with access to the Pacific or the quiet and calm Albion River. The marina has room if you’d like to bring a boat.

Tent and RV camping sit together community-style. RVs are available to rent. Bring your food and libations; the 28-foot trailer has everything you will need, including cable TV and WiFi. A well-stocked store, snack bar, showers, restrooms, and laundry are available for campers. Kayak and canoe rentals are available as well.

Pro Tip: Planning on an extended visit? Weekly and monthly rates are available for sites and boat births.

7. Glamp In A Forest

On a bluff overlooking Mendocino Bay, surrounded by forest, luxuriate in safari tents with wood floors, real beds, down comforters, and sunset decks. Indulge in hot showers stocked with plush towels and organic bath products. Wi-Fi and electricity are available. Breakfast is included. This comfortable camp is family and pet-friendly.

Mendocino Grove is modern camping with luxurious creature comforts to enhance your commune with nature. In the 36-acre property, there is plenty to do. Bocce ball, horseshoes, guided nature hikes, hammocks, yoga, barbecues, campfires, and the most glorious sunsets you’re likely to see.

Beaches, rivers, and parks are less than 2 miles from the grove. Mendocino Village is the center for eateries, libations, galleries, and shopping.

Pro Tip: The Ford House Visitor Center and Museum and the Kelley House Museum will fill you in on this historic village and the surrounding area.

Getting To The Mendocino Coast

You will want a car on the Mendocino Coast. If you’re arriving in an RV or auto, bring along or rent a bicycle for touring.

The Mendo Coast is 3 hours north of San Francisco or 4 hours south of Eureka. Follow Hwy 101 to Willits and turn west on Hwy 20. Hwy 20 ends at Fort Bragg, CA Hwy 1, and the Pacific. Head north for Fort Bragg or south to Mendocino.

Spending time outdoors is more popular than ever. Immersing in nature has a positive effect on everyone. Some say it soothes the soul and makes spirits light. The Mendocino Coast has many outstanding parks and camps. All have spectacular settings, whether ocean-side or deep forest.

The laid-back lifestyle of the area makes the coast a perfect place to unwind and unplug. Experience local life at eateries, shops, galleries, and museums. Ask a local where they like to eat, or where their favorite sunset spot is located. Head to Noyo Harbor and try a whale watching tour, then fill up on seafood fresh from the boat.

No matter what your camping experience or requirements, on the Mendocino Coast, you’ll find a campsite to love — really.

For more northern California experiences, check out these articles:

• 6 Quaint Towns To Visit In Northern California
• 9 Must-Visit Quaint Coastal Towns In Northern California
• 11 Most Stunning Hikes In Northern California

The first time I stayed in an RV was for “Muddy Gras,” an event at Muddy Bottoms, an off-road and outdoor recreation park in Louisiana, where the object seemed to be to get your ATV stuck in the mud. I remember being quite grateful for the RV’s shower. Not only did the RV give us a place to crash so we didn’t have to leave the party, but we didn’t have to pile into the truck after a long day of getting very dirty.

Since then, my husband and I bought a camper. It allowed our cat and I to travel with him when he went on the road for work. For about a year, we posted up in campsites from Kansas to Kalamazoo. That time of transcience helped us save enough money to buy our first house. The camper lost its allure shortly after we purchased our new abode. Towing it seemed like too much trouble. Setting it up for a weekend away just wasn’t worth it. Long story long, we ended up selling it.

But just because we got rid of our camper doesn’t mean we have to stop camping! Tent camping is great when the weather is great, but it sure is nice to have your own bathroom and kitchen. That’s where RVshare comes in! The peer-to-peer RV marketplace lets you rent other people’s RVs so you can have all of the fun of an RV without the maintenance and expense of ownership. But that’s not all! Several of these RV rentals are available for delivery. That means you don’t have to worry about how you’re going to tow (or drive) the darn thing, let alone park it. They’ll even set it up for you, so it’s ready when you are!

We spoke with a few people who have used RVshare’s delivery service to see what their experience was like. Here’s what they said about the one delivery service you’ve got to try this year.

Raymond J., Houston, TX

Where did you go? What did you do?

My family and I went to Lockhart, Texas, to compete in a Motocross Race at Spoaks, MX. We arrived Friday night at 11:30 p.m. from the Houston area, participated in Motocross practice sessions Saturday on the MX track, then went shopping in San Marcos, TX for Christmas gifts and had dinner, then went back to the RV at the MX park and slept Saturday night. Sunday morning we were up early for the races all day and departed about 4 p.m. Sunday. We never met Ronnie the RV owner. Ronnie dropped off the RV at about 5 p.m. Friday night, then came back Sunday at about 5 p.m. to pick it up. We were long gone on our way to go out to eat on the way home back to Houston.

Tell us what you liked about the RVshare rental delivery service.

My favorite thing about the delivery service is not having to do the work associated with prepping the RV by filling up the water tank, towing the RV, which is stressful and expensive with gas prices rising, and just being able to arrive whenever we wanted with no specific timeframe to meet up with the owner. The ease of just arriving and climbing inside the RV and going to sleep was so awesome. The owner Ronnie really went the extra mile to make sure the RV had everything we could ever need already in place and set up for us. Even had some lawn chairs set out, a grill outside ready to go with charcoal and lighter fluid, cooking utensils, and an outdoor patio mat made our spot perfect for us.

Did anything about the service surprise you?

I knew the rental came with a generator but I was surprised to find 15 gallons of gas at the ready with an already full generator fuel tank ready to power the RV when we arrived. There was leftover gas Sunday when we left, so I could tell Ronnie knew exactly how much fuel we would need to power the RV essentially the entire weekend without having to fool with trips to gas stations to steal our fun time.

How did the service enhance your vacation?

The service helped us to relax to the point where we were in no particular hurry to get there to meet a schedule or deadline to get to a destination. We were so relaxed from start to finish compared to other times when we rented other RVs we had to pick up by a certain time, do all the legwork of prep and towing, get to a spot by a deadline, set up the RV late evening in the dark, get the generator going, bring in our bed linens and get those on the beds, deploy lawn chairs, etc.

Would you use the RVshare rental delivery service again and/or recommend it to others? If yes, why?

We are already booking again with the same owner in February just a couple of months away. I definitely will be recommending this delivery service to friends and family and I will say more RVshare owners should offer “all-inclusive” amenities and delivery services. With all the extra work the owner saved us, it sure was worth paying the extra money to be relaxed and rested to focus on the real reason for our trip — moto racing.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I feel like we all have enough work to do in our daily lives, so no matter what your destination is or reason for getting out to camp in an RV, you’re most likely getting away to just relax a little and take a time out for yourself and your family. Go all the way and do yourself a favor by having the RV delivered and set up for you so you can focus on what’s important and that’s your family’s fun.

Trish Giraldo, Huntsville, TX

Where did you go? What did you do?

We spent an extended weekend at Lake Livingston, TX. We met up with two other friends and their respective families to enjoy nature walks, bike riding, plenty of campfire cooking, and relaxing.

Tell us what you liked about the RVshare rental delivery service.

I loved the options and convenience of the RVshare delivery service. With our SUV, we would’ve been able to tow a rather small travel trailer due to the weight and our tow capacity. It really limited our choices. However, with the RVshare delivery service, we were able to select a larger RV that was conducive to our growing family’s wants and needs for “glamping.”

Did anything about the service surprise you?

Our expectations for the delivery service were simply to arrive at the campsite to find a clean, comfortable RV with a few basics (towels, linens, pillows, etc.). What we arrived to was all of that and so much more! The owners had everything set up for us already: The outdoor rug and camping chairs next to the RV, the awning rolled out, an extra tank of propane, and even a freshly baked loaf of pumpkin bread for us to enjoy during our weekend! Inside, the RV was fully stocked with every amenity we could need — dishes, utensils, coffee, spices, soaps, cleaning supplies, and even games and toys for the children! The beds were surprisingly comfortable.

The owners took the time to show us everything in their RV and provided us with their cell phone numbers to call them at any time if we needed anything. So, not only was the RV a great surprise but so was the outstanding hospitality!

How did the service enhance your vacation?

This rental experience definitely enhanced our little vacation by allowing us more time to relax with less time worrying about pick up/drop off of the RV and setting everything up.

Would you use the RVshare rental delivery service again and/or recommend it to others? If yes, why?

We will absolutely use RVshare’s rental delivery service again. In fact, our friends who went camping with us were so impressed with our experience that they want to use it on our next joint camping trip! The moderate fee for the service is well worth the convenience and time saved for those precious vacation hours with family and friends, and it enables folks to perhaps rent an RV they wouldn’t otherwise be able to rent due to towing restrictions.

Tammi G., Highlands Ranch, CO

Where did you go (destination)? What did you do?

Mystic Hills in Deadwood, South Dakota, for 4 days and 3 nights. We had a family reunion with about 40 people. It was awesome! We visited Deadwood and mostly hung out at the campgrounds with the family and played games, told stories, ate lots of food, did photoshoots, and four-wheeled.

Tell us what you liked about the RVshare rental delivery service.

Amazing! Super convenient because the trailer was there upon our arrival. All set up. We were able to just show up and start having fun immediately.

Did anything about the service surprise you?

We were happily surprised that it was not just dropped off and left for us to set up. We arrived and every single thing was arranged for us. The owners even left us a goodie basket with s’mores to enjoy with the kids. They also left very detailed instructions on how to use everything. The only bummer was that we had no cell service when we arrived. The backroom had a video game system, but the TV monitor was cracked, so it was unusable. It took us a while to find service to let the owners know. But they were great about it once we got ahold of them.

How did the service enhance your vacation?

Definitely more relaxing time and fun to be had. We also just picked up and left when we were done. Didn’t have to empty the septic system nor hook up the trailer to leave. Also, we did not waste a ton of gas pulling a trailer on our vehicle. That was super awesome!

Would you use the RVshare rental delivery service again and/or recommend it to others? If yes, why?

HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT TO OTHERS. Many of our family members were envious that we literally showed up, had fun, and left when we wanted to. Also, it took way shorter time for us to get to the campground from Colorado since we did not have to pull a trailer. Saving time and gas was beyond mention!

Anything else you’d like to add?

Just that everything was set up and ready for us to adventure upon arrival helped make our family reunion stress-free and super enjoyable with kids in tow. And one of the best memorable experiences for our whole family.

Road tripping dramatically increased when other forms of traditional travel weren’t an option due to the pandemic. Millions of households took up camping and discovered what many of us have known for a while. Camping is for everyone — young and old. It’s a wonderful way to connect with family, make memories, reduce stress, enjoy the outdoors, discover new places, and get some exercise. 

RVshare, the largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace in the world, recently released its 2022 Travel Trend Report. Almost half of the respondents who intend to travel next year said they planned on taking a road trip or vacation in an RV in the next 12 months. Of travelers surveyed, 59 percent said they find an RV road trip appealing and 53 percent said that they’re likely to consider renting an RV for a trip in the future. Sounds like our kind of people!

The report also revealed the top campgrounds for RV rentals, which we explore below. Since camping is so popular now, campgrounds fill up fast. Some campgrounds are first-come, first-served, but reservations are recommended when possible. Half of RVshare rentals are pet-friendly — just be sure to double-check that the campground is too before bringing your fur-children along. Here are the top 10 campgrounds for RV rentals in 2021.

1. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Consistent with last year’s data, family-focused destinations, such as Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, always top RVshare renters’ list. According to RVshare’s report, 81 percent of travelers are excited to travel with family next year. Additionally, “more than half of likely 2022 travelers are looking to spend quality time with family or explore and discover new places next year, both of which have increased in appeal since 2020.”

Located minutes away from Disney, The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness is a great place to do just that. Go horseback riding, canoeing, swimming in the pool, or try your hand at archery. Rent a golf cart to explore this picturesque backcountry resort’s 750 acres. Planning to go? Check out Camping At Disney World’s Fort Wilderness: 11 Expert Tips.

2. Campland On The Bay

San Diego

Located on the shores of Mission Bay, Campland on the Bay® is just a 15-minute drive from downtown San Diego. In addition to waterfront RV camping, Campland on the Bay offers activities for all ages. You can rent just about any toy you want to play out on the water — there are pontoons, jet skis, water skis, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and more. There’s also a marina so you can bring your own boat.

Relax on the beach, splash around in the pool, or relax in one of the two hot tubs. Rent a bike and pedal around Pacific Beach or Mission Bay Park. Other amenities include beach sports, a skatepark, a game room, and a basketball court. You can even build a campfire on the bay!

3. Ginnie Springs Outdoors

High Springs, Florida

For water lovers who like to scuba dive, kayak, canoe, tube, swim, or snorkel, Ginnie Springs Outdoors is the perfect campground for you! Located off I-75 right outside of Gainesville, Florida, the park offers seven crystal clear springs and 200 wooded acres. The water stays at a perfect 72 degrees year-round. An extensive underwater cave system makes the park popular with cave divers as well. Check out its Instagram account to see what we mean.

The campground offers 129 campsites, many of which are situated along the south side of the Santa Fe River or its freshwater springs. While water and electric hookups are available, there are no sewer hookups at the sites, but there is a dump station. This campground does not allow pets. Rent everything you need for snorkeling — masks, fins, and snorkels — at the Ginnie Springs Store. 

4. The Spirit Of The Suwannee Music Park & Campground

Live Oak, Florida

Nestled along the banks of the Suwannee River, The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground lies conveniently between Tallahassee and Jacksonville, offering 800 acres of fun in the Sunshine State. Launch your canoe or kayak from the onsite boat ramp or stroll amongst the cypress trees. Go freshwater fishing, explore wildlife habitats, and hike or bike miles of trails. Check out the disc golf course, or just cruise around in a golf cart.

5. Lazy L&L Campground

New Braunfels, Texas

Conveniently located between San Antonio and Austin, the German town New Braunfels makes for a fun weekend destination in the heart of Texas Hill Country. Kids love it for “The World’s Best Waterpark,” Schlitterbahn, while adults appreciate its proximity to the Texas Wine Trail. It’s also home to the Guadalupe River.

If you’re planning a float trip down the Guadalupe, Lazy L&L Campground‘s beautiful shaded riverfront is the place to park your RV. Tube or raft the river, or ride down in an inflatable canoe. With long-term reservations available, its also a fabulous place for snowbirds to spend the winter months. Do note that no pets are allowed from May to September.

6. Cherrystone Family Camping Resort

Cape Charles, Virginia

About an hour outside of Norfolk, Virginia and Virginia Beach Cherrystone Family Camping Resort offers over 300 acres of natural waterfront on the Chesapeake Bay. Several of its 700-plus campsites are shaded by tall trees. It also features five swimming pools, four fishing piers, and a beautiful beach. Feel free to bring Fido — he’ll feel right at home with his own dedicated dog beach.

With a cafe/lounge, general store, and bait and tackle shop, everything you need is available on site. Watch the sun go down over the water, go crabbing, and enjoy the birds and wildlife. Cherrystone hosts themed weekends and activities for the entire family throughout the season.

7. Vail Lake Resort

Temecula, California

Featuring over 200 acres of world-class hiking and mountain bike trails, Vail Lake Resort (also known as Temecula/Vail Lake KOA) lies conveniently between LA and San Diego. Enjoy the sunny southern California weather from its three pools: a 25-meter lap pool, a kids’ wading pool, and a full-sized heated pool. There’s plenty more to keep everyone entertained, including disc golf and mini-golf courses, pickleball and basketball courts, and horseshoe pits. Golf cart rentals are available, too! Plus, you’re just 15 minutes away from Temecula Valley wineries and nearby casinos.

8. Reunion Lake RV Resort

Ponchatoula, Louisiana

Conveniently located off the I-12 corridor, Reunion Lake RV Resort lies across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans, about an hour away from both The Big Easy and Baton Rouge. This gated lakeside resort’s amenities will blow your mind! There’s a swim-up tiki bar, a lazy river, a huge hot tub, and a floating obstacle course (open April-October), plus poolside cabanas, miniature golf, and volleyball and pickleball courts. But that’s not all! There’s also an outdoor amphitheater, a playground, a dog park, and a fitness center. No wonder it made RVshare’s list of top 10 campgrounds. Explore Reunion Lake by kayak or paddleboard, and cast a line in the fishing area.

9. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort

Newport Beach, California

Get away for the weekend at Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina in sunny Newport Beach, California. Kids can splash in the wading pool, while adults can enjoy the jets while soaking in one of the two onsite spas. Bring a good book and lounge in laid-back luxury in the privacy of your own poolside cabana. From water sports and Newport Beach’s inflatable water park to the beach and Duffy boats, there are also plenty of ways to enjoy the water at this waterfront resort.

10. Fort De Soto Park Campground

Pinellas County, Florida

Located in St. Petersburg, Florida at the mouth of Tampa Bay, Fort De Soto Park is made up of five interconnected islands (keys). In addition to the historic fort for which it’s named, the park is home to award-winning beaches, including one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the U.S.

Visitors enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming. One of our Floridian writers, Fred Mays, suggests paddling out to Shell Key, where you can search for shells in quiet solitude. Snorkelers should catch the ferry to undeveloped Egmont Key. Because of all of these amazing things to do, reservations for Fort De Soto Campground’s 238 sites can be hard to come by, especially during the peak winter season, so book early!

RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, RVshare has the perfect RV for your vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

Reservations for “glamping” sites have more than doubled between 2021 and 2022 according to Campspot, the leading online campground marketplace. Whether you’re into glamping in a cabin, roughing it in a tent, or being surrounded by all the comforts of home in an RV, Campspot’s top camping destinations of 2022 have something for you.

1. Banff, Alberta, Canada

Mountain Aire Resort

From majestic mountains to turquoise glacier-fed lakes, Banff is one of the most scenic national parks in the Canadian Rockies. Hiking, rafting, and climbing are all great ways to explore this unconquered territory. Mountain Aire Resort is just a couple of hours away, offering access to fishing, ATV trails, wildlife watching, and more.

2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan Upper Peninsula

Woodland Park Campground In Grand Marais, MI

Pristine Lake Superior beaches and over 100 miles of hiking trails await at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The national shoreline is named for its vibrant multi-colored sandstone cliffs, some of which feature waterfalls like Spray Falls. See it on a Pictured Rocks Cruises boat tour, enjoy the scenery by foot, or take in Michigan’s serene Upper Peninsula by kayak.

Close to downtown Grand Marais on the shores of Lake Superior, Woodland Park Campground makes for a great home base. Watch the sunrise or set over the water — Campspot says “it’s the view that keeps people coming back year after year.”

3. Hocking Hills, Ohio

Campbell Cove RV Resort & Campground

Home to caves and waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park makes for some super scenic hiking. Campspot says Old Man’s Cave can be reached by “crossing bridges, hiking past a swirling pool of water called Devil’s Bathtub, and climbing a narrow set of stairs carved into the rock.”

Campbell Cove RV Resort & Campground is surrounded by tall pines by beautiful Lake Logan. The family-friendly campground offers seasonal sites, RV sites, tent camping, and rental cabins in a beautiful natural setting. It’s also conveniently located close to Hocking Hills attractions, such as Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours, and Cedar Falls, as well as restaurants, wineries, and distilleries. 

4. Acadia National Park, Maine

Hadley’s Point Campground

Spanning more than 47,000 acres, Acadia National Park is known as the “crown jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.” One of the most popular national parks in the U.S., more than 2 million visitors come to Acadia to bike, hike, birdwatch, swim, stargaze, and boat in the summer, while the winter brings hikers, cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and ice fishermen.

Just minutes from Acadia National Park and the popular seaside town of Bar Harbor, Hadley’s Point Campground offers quiet, family-friendly digs where you can stay in a cabin, tent, or RV amid the pines.

5. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Glen Ellis

Bordering New Hampshire and Maine, White Mountain National Forest draws millions of visitors every year. Boasting the highest elevation in the northeastern U.S., this area is home to world-class leaf-peeping, skiing, hiking, and camping.

Conveniently located near the towns and villages of Mt. Washington Valley, Jellystone Park is an outdoorsy paradise with a “vast number of scenic hiking trails (some even have hidden swimming holes and underground caves),” according to Campspot. Campground amenities include a pool and an ice cream bar.

6. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Peters Pond RV Resort In Sandwich, MA

Known for beautiful beaches, quaint little towns and villages, fresh seafood, and lighthouses, Cape Cod is a relaxing summertime haven. The Cape’s pristine peninsula also features golf courses, charming history, and three coasts to choose from.

Situated along a spring-fed pond, Peters Pond RV Resort offers a serene environment if you want to get away from it all. But, there’s also plenty of onsite activities, such as softball, horseshoes, volleyball, and bocce ball to keep guests entertained.

7. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland

Sun Outdoors Frontier Town In Berlin, MD

Famous for wild horses, Assateague Island is an Atlantic barrier island located off the eastern coast of Maryland and Virginia. At 37 miles long (but never more than a mile wide), the small strip of land is considered one of the best beaches on the entire East Coast. Lack of human development makes for an abundance of wildlife, including marsh and coastal birds. Search for seashells, explore sand dunes, and check out the picturesque Assateague lighthouse. Campspot recommends visiting “the island during sunset for a truly colorful and surreal experience.”

Only 8 miles away from the Assateague Island National Seashore entrance, you’ll find Sun Outdoors Frontier Town in Berlin, MD. Formerly known as Frontier Town RV Resort & Campground, the Western-themed campground doubles as a theme park and water park. It also features a marina, fishing, jet ski rentals, an onsite restaurant, and mini-golf.

8. Key West, Florida

Sun Outdoors Marathon In Marathon, FL

Sparkling white sand beaches, sinking sunsets, and key lime pie are all synonymous with Key West. Sunsets are so stellar here that the island celebrates sundown every evening on Mallory Square. The southernmost point in the U.S. also sports historic sites, unique architecture, lively nightlife, and quite a culinary scene.

An hour away from downtown Key West, Sun Outdoors Marathon sits along the Gulf of Mexico’s blue waters. In addition to camping, this quiet paradise offers secluded waterfront access, boat slips, and a private marina.

9. The Ozarks

Ozark Farms Family Campground & RV Park In Rolla, MO

Filled with important history, beautiful scenery, diverse attractions, local treasures, and fun things to see and do The Ozarks, aka the Ozark Mountains, meander through Missouri, making their way down to northern Arkansas. Hiking is one of the best ways to appreciate its woodlands, limestone bluffs, and caves.

Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Ozark Farms offers peace and quiet in the great outdoors. Fugitive Beach and Meramec Springs State Park are nearby, while Onondaga Cave State Park is only a 40-minute drive.

10. Texas Hill Country

Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country In New Braunfels, TX

West of Austin and north of San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is where you can find Fredericksburg, wineries, Enchanted Rock Natural State Area, and plenty of bluebonnets in the spring. It’s also home to New Braunfels, which features the award-winning Schlitterbahn New Braunfels Waterpark & Resort, floatable rivers, and a brand new camping experience.

Located along the Guadalupe River, Camp Fimfo puts the ‘glam’ in glamping. This fun campground boasts a swim-up bar, outdoor movies, water slides, and more!

11. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Roadrunner Travelers Campground In Terlingua, TX

Speaking of Texas adventures, Big Bend National Park is chock-full of them! From hiking and backpacking to river trips through deep canyons and dirt road adventures, Big Bend adventures know no end. Don’t forget the awe-inspiring views, brilliant star-gazing, and camping!

Stay at Roadrunner Travelers in the lively ghost town Terlingua, just a short drive away from the park. This Chihuahuan desert oasis features excellent views of Bee Mountain from each camp spot, access to hiking, and a dog park.

12. Four Corners (UT/CO/AZ/NM)

Alpen Rose RV Park In Durango, CO

Named for where four states meet, Four Corners’ rich history and protected lands draw visitors to the Southwest. To the east is Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park, where what remains of the Ancestral Puebloans stand. Tour the cliff dwellings of a civilization that lived on the Colorado Plateau for hundreds of years. It’s also one of the best stargazing spots in the country. Also to the east, San Juan National Forest is home to some of the most stunning hikes in Colorado.

West, you’ll find Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, where you can boat Lake Powell, hike and drive the canyons and mountains, and check out Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River and Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Canyonlands National Park also lies to the west of Four Corners. One of the big five national parks in Utah, its 527 square miles feature a colorful landscape of canyons, arches, buttes, rivers, and mesas.

Durango, CO is about an hour and a half from Four Corners Monument (where you can get your picture in four states at once). Here you can stay at Alpen Rose RV Park in the peaceful Animas River Valley surrounded by stunning red rock cliffs. Note the RV part — this campground only has full hook-up sites.

13. Moab, Utah

Canyonlands RV Resort & Campground In Moab, UT

Located in eastern Utah, Moab is surrounded by natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and national and state parks that are ideal for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The terrain is a product of erosion, with softer rock yielding to water and wind, leaving behind arches, striated canyon walls, hoodoos, and towering monuments.

Moab is a good central location for those looking to explore Canyonlands and Arches national parks. Campspot recommends Moab’s Canyonlands RV Resort & Campground. Its pool allows campers to sunbathe or swim while surrounded by red rocks. Guests can also hike around the property. Choose to stay in one of the tent sites, pull-thru RV sites, or cabin rentals.

14. Santa Fe, New Mexico

KitFox In Lamy, NM

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and drenched with sunshine, Santa Fe offers something for everyone. Whether you are an art lover, history buff, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, you’ll find plenty to see, do, and eat in this high-altitude capital city about an hour north of Albuquerque.

In close proximity to the city, KitFox offers high desert glamping at its finest. From hiking and fishing to offroading and horseback riding, there is plenty of outdoor fun to be had. KitFox launched last year and has yet to release its Spring 2022 calendar for nightly stays.

15. Sedona, Arizona

Rancho Sedona RV Park In Sedona, AZ

Nearly 3 million tourists flock to Sedona each year to hike, mountain bike, bask in energy from the area’s world-famous vortexes and dine in restaurants in spectacular settings. This upscale resort town has several must-see spots in addition to gorgeous red sandstone formations, Rancho Sedona RV Park offers a peaceful desert setting to relax and unwind. Sedona has more than 300 days of sunshine a year, but shaded RV sites are canopied by grand sycamore and cottonwood trees. Mountain bike, hike, and fish on premises, or walk to nearby galleries, shops, and restaurants.

16. Saguaro National Park, Arizona 

Ride Out Ranch In Florence, AZ

Named for the giant cacti it protects, Saguaro National Park is comprised of two areas separated by the city of Tucson: the Red Hills Tucson Mountain District (aka Saguaro West) and the Rincon Mountain District (Saguaro East). Take in the park’s iconic southwestern landscape via scenic drive or hiking trails.

Just an hour north of Saguaro National Park, Ride Out Ranch offers scenic desert views in Florence, AZ. In addition to full-hookup RV sites, The ranch features primitive camping areas and four shed-sized “tiny homes.” It’s called Ride Out Ranch because campers are encouraged to bring along their horses to stay in the partially covered horse stalls and take on the endless trails right outside the gates.

17. Missoula, Montana

Jim & Mary’s RV Park In Missoula, MT

A college town on the scenic western side of the state, Missoula, Montana, has the best of both worlds. Minutes from the city, you’ve got solitude, nature, and adventure while still being close to funky local shops, a unique music scene, and plenty of eateries. White water raft the famous Alberton Gorge, or explore the city via its system of trails. Bonus: Yellowstone and Glacier National Park are both an easy day’s drive away. 

Nestled in the heart of Missoula, just 10 minutes from downtown, is Jim & Mary’s RV Park. This well-manicured family-owned campground also features a made-in-Montana gift shop.

18. Mt Rainier National Park, Washington

Elkamp Eastcreek In Mineral, WA

The tallest peak in Washington State and in the Cascade Mountain Range of the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier stands 14,411 feet above sea level and is home to the most glaciers in the country. Five major rivers originate at its glaciers, subalpine meadows surround its icy peaks, and old-growth forests cover its lower slopes. Mount Rainier National Park strives to preserve this unique and diverse ecosystem. The best way to experience its towering forests, crystal-clear alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, rushing rivers, and world-famous wildflower meadows is by hiking through it all.

A 15-minute drive from the Nisqually Gate entrance (the only one that’s open year-round) Elkamp Eastcreek lies among the trees at the foot of Mt. Rainier. Just a couple hours away from Seattle and Portland, its park-like grounds are the perfect place to stay during your Western Cascade getaway.

19. Hood River, Oregon

Gorge Base Camp In White Salmon, WA

Hood River is situated between the Columbia River Gorge and the Cascade Range. Scenic hiking and biking trails and waterways display the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. Skiing, kiteboarding, and windsurfing are popular sports here. It’s also home to some of the region’s best wineries, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants.

Although Gorge Base Camp overlooks the Oregon town of Hood River, it is located on the Washington side of Columbia River Gorge. Tent and RV sites are available.

20. San Diego, California

Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay In Chula Vista, CA

From white-sand beaches to fantastic restaurants, sunny San Diego offers so much to see and do. Head downtown to the Gaslamp Quarter and sing your heart out at The Shout! House dueling piano bar. Drive over to Coronado and have a drink at the Hotel del Coronado as you watch the sunset over the Pacific.

Southern California’s newest, upscale resort, Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay is on San Diego Bay in nearby Chula Vista, right next to Living Coast Discovery Center. It has RV sites as well as cottage rentals, plus amazing onsite amenities. The pool has private cabanas, there’s an arcade and outdoor activities like pickleball, a market, and onsite eateries.

21. Palm Springs, California

Indian Wells RV Resort In Indio, CA 

Speaking of SoCal escapes, Palm Springs is just a couple of hours away from Los Angeles and San Diego. This posh resort town is home to quirky historic hotels, the largest concentration of mid-century modern architecture in the world, creative cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. Its boutique hotels, luxurious resorts, and vacation rentals can cost a pretty penny though, so why not try camping in the charming nearby town of Indio?

Just half an hour from Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park, Indian Wells RV Resort offers mesmerizing mountain views. No RV? No problem! In addition to 300 RV sites, one- and two-bedroom vacation rentals are available. Indian Wells amenities include a pool, hot tub, clubhouse, gym, mini-golf, dog park, yoga, and more!

22. Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

Diamond M Ranch Resort In Kenai, AK

Dubbed “Alaska’s Playground,” the Kenai Peninsula wilderness is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s also a fishermen’s paradise, with the famed Russian River offering some of the world’s best salmon fishing. At the edge of the peninsula, Kenai Fjords National Park’s landscape, carved eons ago by glacial ice, is a protected space preserving a unique blend of glaciers, marine and land wildlife, and snow-capped mountain fjords.

Situated on the bluff overlooking the famous Kenai River and Cook Inlet, between the town centers of Soldotna and Kenai, Diamond M Ranch Resort makes for a perfect home base for your Alaskan adventure with easy day trips to Seward or Homer. In addition to spacious, full hook-up RV sites, the resort offers tent sites and cute-as-can-be Main Street historical suites, designed to represent Alaska’s Last Frontier.

More and more national parks have implemented reservation systems to better manage the record numbers of travelers who have visited the parks in the last few years.

Reservations are available for many parts of a park visit — from getting an entrance time into a park to getting a campsite to being part of a guided tour.

To make your trip a success, you need to know what parts of your visit need reservations, how to make them, how early you need to make them, and what your alternatives are if reservations are no longer available for what you want to do.

To make things a bit more complicated, every park is somewhat different in terms of what can be reserved and when — but the information isn’t hard to sort out if you know where to look.

And while most parks are still able to accommodate visitors without reservations, the most popular places in the most popular parks book up early, and mid-December is a critical time for booking in early summer. While you’re at it, don’t forget to plan ahead and book your RV early as well. RVing popularity is still at an all-time high and it may be difficult to find a suitable rental if you wait until the last minute.

I’m a retired park ranger, and have worked with reservation systems in some of the busiest parks in the country (going back to the days before the internet) and helped take parks into the online reservation process. Because the reservation system in the NPS is evolving and expanding so rapidly, I reached out to the federal government’s reservation provider, Recreation.gov, for their input and assistance to make sure we’re all up to speed.

Time To Do Your Homework

You need to get familiar with the ins and outs of the appropriate reservation systems for all aspects of your trip now so when the time to book comes, you’re ready.

Download the NPS.gov mobile app and the Recreation.gov mobile app on your mobile device and browse along as we go through this. Knowing these apps well will make your life a lot easier.

Summer Campground Reservations Start To Open Up In December

Recreation.gov, website or mobile app, is the place you need to go to book a national park campground site. Not all campgrounds take reservations, but the ones that do are here.

Most parks open reservations six months in advance, with a new month’s worth of reservations being released around mid-month. For example, for North Pines campground in Yosemite, I can make a reservation for early April now, but for April 15 through May 15, I need to come back on December 15 at 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time — Recreation.gov tells you when the reservations will be released. It’s critical for you to know that not all parks use the same release schedule, so you need to track the release schedule for the reservation you’re interested in. 

Get Help Picking A Campsite

Recreation.gov does a great job of helping you select a campsite. You’ll see a map of the campground, a photo of each site, and see info on whether it’s suitable for RVs or tents, whether it offers accessibility for those with disabilities, and info on the availability of water and other amenities.

The vast majority of parks that have camping offer sites for both RVs and tents. The NPS often attempts to accommodate people camping in tents by having a separate area within a campground, or by designating a campground unsuitable for RVs as a tent-only campground. (Tents don’t keep out sound, so a bit of seclusion helps make for a better night’s sleep.)

If you’re going to be renting an RV from a reputable site like RVshare, consult the owner for their recommendations as well. They will most likely be familiar with the area and accustomed to helping their renters select the prime campsite.

How To Compete For The Most Popular Campsites

For the vast majority of recreation opportunities, six months is way more than adequate lead time to ensure a reservation is available. But let’s talk about what it takes to be competitive for the most sought-after reservations.

For extremely high-demand campsites in the most popular parks, you need to be online at the very instant the reservations become available. The most popular sites will be reserved immediately. Plan where you want to camp down to the very campsite, be online the moment the reservations are released, and hope for the best.

The “Seasons and Booking” tab is your friend here. It lists the exact time and date a reservation will become available, so you know when to be online. Most open at 8 a.m. Mountain Time as that’s when the Recreation.gov Contact Center opens — and they strive to provide access to those who prefer to call an agent rather than make a reservation online. This isn’t always the case, so it’s best to review your plan prior to the day you need to make your reservation.

Pro Tip: Weekends have higher demand, so you’ll find less competition for a site if you’re willing to book it for a weekday. Friday nights can have high demand, Saturday the highest, and Sunday a bit less.

Finding Out Which Sites Are In High Demand Requires Research

How do you know if you need to go through the process of competing for a popular campsite, or whether you don’t need to rush? You need to know the demand at the park. That’s not easy to determine online. Of course, you’ll want to check out the park’s website for camping information, but you probably are going to want to contact the park to see what the demand is to determine whether you need to go through the hassle of being online the moment the reservations are released. 

Another way is for you to monitor when sites book up in 2022 as you plan 2023 travels.

All that said, Recreation.gov does a very good job of guiding you through the planning and booking process and recommending smart alternatives should your desired spot be unavailable.

Some Parks Are Using Timed Entry Reservations

In a few busy parks, during peak season, you may need a reservation just to enter the park if you don’t have accommodation reservations. Yosemite, Rocky Mountain, and Glacier have adopted a timed entry system for day users — people without overnight accommodation reservations (camping or hotel).

If you’re visiting just for the day, you’re going to want to see if you’ll need a timed entry reservation, and when that reservation becomes available. These restrictions are in effect only seasonally in select parks, so check NPS.gov to see when and where they’ll be in effect. Keep an eye out for other parks adopting timed entry. It’s working well for all involved, so expect the practice to spread.

Oh, you’re still going to have to pay your entrance fee, it’s not part of the timed entry system.

Pro Tip: Many park entrance stations aren’t open overnight, even if the parks are. If you plan your arrival before the entrance station opens, there won’t be a line. You may end up paying your fee on the way out, or not at all, and you won’t wind up be waiting in line.

Timed Entry Reservations Have Been Introduced For Congested Areas 

Acadia National Park has developed a reservation system for accessing the Cadillac Summit parking area within the park, which is implemented during the summer season. It has two reservation windows, one that opens 90 days ahead, another that opens two days ahead. Haleakala has a similar system for viewing sunrise at the summit — booked well in advance. This is similar to the timed entry system used by other parks, but just for a limited portion of the park. If these systems continue to be effective, look for other parks to emulate them.

The Most Competitive Reservations Use Lotteries

Some parks have wilderness permit reservations that can be booked online. In fact, some of the most coveted reservations in the NPS are wilderness permit reservations in select locations. The demand is so great that rather than having an online rush when the reservations become available, you have to compete in a lottery for the opportunity to make the reservation. The same principle applies to getting in the lottery — know where and when you want to go, know when the registration for the lottery begins and ends, and register on time. The lottery prevents the logjam of everyone trying to get a reservation at the same time, but you still need to pay attention to when the lottery opens and closes.

Concession Reservations Are On Different Systems

There may be private concession operations, like hotels, that require a reservation and they’ll have their own reservation systems with their own lead time for bookings. Say you want to take the Desert Princess for a cruise to Hoover Dam on Lake Mead — you’re going to need a reservation through the Lake Mead Cruises website.

And some facilities may be operated and booked through park partner organizations, so expect to encounter yet another reservation system.

What If You Just Want To Get Up And Go?

Even the busiest parks still maintain some first-come, first-served options, so check for those on NPS.gov. Check with the park on the time you should arrive. And remember, weekends will be busier.

If you’re not comfortable with just taking your chances on first-come, first-served, try Recreation.gov’s trip builder. Pick a starting point and an endpoint, and the trip builder will show you all the recreation possibilities along the route. While you may have your heart set on a national park camping experience, you may find that the U.S. Forest Service has a quiet little lakeside campsite available right on the way that will be a perfect getaway.

Recreation.gov’s trip builder allows you to find recreation opportunities from a dozen federal agencies including the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Army Corps of Engineers (think campgrounds by reservoirs).

One could even plan an entire trip of visiting unknown and under-appreciated sites booked through the Recreation.gov trip finder. Recreation.gov also has a recommendations engine that will suggest other available places to discover if your primary destination is booked.

The sooner you become proficient at using Recreation.gov and NPS.gov, the sooner you’ll be able to plan your trip like a pro.

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If you’ve been to a government campground lately — national or state park, Army Corps of Engineers (COE), or U.S. Forest Service — you may notice a lot of empty campsites. This perplexes people who had a difficult time securing a reservation because the campground looked nearly full online and sites were difficult to reserve. I’m a frequent flyer at federal campgrounds and it seems to be getting worse in campgrounds with lots of reservation tags and a near equal number of no-shows. What’s the reason? 

No-Show Reservations Leave Campgrounds Unfilled

I dug into the policies at Recreation.gov to understand what might be fueling no-shows. 

For individual campsites, if you cancel the day before or the day of your reservation, you lose the $10 reservation fee plus 1 night of your reservation and will be refunded the balance. If you have only a 1-night reservation, you will not get any refund. This policy contributes to why people don’t cancel. Government sites are much less expensive than commercial campgrounds. If you have a senior pass, rates are cut by half. For a short stay, why bother canceling? Local residents game the system and make multiple reservations at their local park for the weekends. If they don’t go to the site, it’s not a huge financial setback. They will have the entire weekend to use “their” campsite and nothing can be done by the camp hosts. If a national park campsite is sold, it can’t be resold just because the holder didn’t show. 

I have found that when I’ve canceled in advance, refunds are generated quickly and to the card used to pay for the reservation. Recreation.gov states the refund is automatic (within 1–3 business days) once you cancel the reservation online or on the phone. But people don’t, resulting in empty campgrounds.

Beware The Reservation Bots

According to National Parks Traveler, the National Parks have a reservation system problem. Scalpers, or even individuals, pounce on campsites when they become available at exactly 6 months out when sites are released. Within seconds, an entire campground can be reserved for weeks and months. They use computer bots to fire off reservation information and pay for the site while helpless campers at home are boxed out of their dream vacation. Transferring reservations is not permitted, but scalpers have ways to get around that. Campgrounds don’t normally check for any identification once you’re in the park. 

What Can Be Done About No-Shows?

The Wyoming State Parks reservation system changed its policies in 2021 to allow cancelations with refunds right up to the day of your reservation. It did this in hopes that more people would actually cancel and not leave empty “no-show” sites that can’t be used by campers who arrive hoping to find a site. Further, Wyoming has a three-strikes policy for those who don’t show up. Upon your third no-show, they will cancel any remaining reservations you have and provide no refund. 

Other states have a variety of policies. Some require a 3-day notice to cancel online and get a refund, which leads to more no-shows. Making it easier to cancel is more likely to result in cancelations. Easier cancelations and a three-strikes policy might be the most effective strategies to combat rampant no-shows. Your best practice is to read the fine print when making a reservation. 

I recently stayed at a Texas state park and could not make my first night of a 2-night reservation. I called the reservation center and it made a notation on my slip to let the campground know I would come for the second night so I would not be labeled a no-show. The California parks system has adopted a policy banning bots, limiting transfers, and booting habitual no-shows from the reservation system. 

Alternative Strategies For Reserving Your Campsite

If you get boxed out of a reservation, you can use a service like Campnab. For a fee, it will alert you to openings due to cancelations. This service is a notification only, not a reservation system. But it gives you an opportunity to pounce on an unexpected opening. 

Most national parks allow for a few campsites to be set aside as first-come, first-served (FF) which gives you a shot at camping in your desired campground. Once there, you can opt to stay as long as the limit allows. I find it is far less frustrating and easier to camp in the U.S. Forest Service campgrounds, locations near a popular park, or even COE parks at more remote locations. Less demand means more available campsites. Camping, after all, is about being outdoors and having access to natural spaces. Some of the best places I’ve been to have been more out-of-the-way locations where a reservation is easily secured.

The British are very fond of outdoor life, especially during the few summer months like July and August, when they can enjoy good weather. A bit of history: The Boy Scout Movement was founded in 1908 by British cavalry officer Robert S.S. Baden-Powell. Boy Scout skills certainly come in handy when planning a camping trip. Next is the picnic. Originally from France, outdoor dining on a blanket was brought to the United Kingdom by aristocratic refugees from the French Revolution and became so popular, and even a social event, that the PicNic society was formed in the UK in 1801.

Finally, look at these statistics, reflecting how many camping trips the British took over recent years. With this history and the enthusiasm for camping and glamping, it’s no wonder that the United Kingdom has a vast amount of camping sites to offer. From humble grounds, where you just pitch your tent and use your cooking skills, to rather luxurious glamping sites such as lavish yurts, we will show you where in the UK you can have the most exciting camping experiences.

1. Loch Tay Highland Lodges And Glamping

Loch Tay is a freshwater loch in the central highlands of Scotland. It’s 15 miles long and one of the deepest lochs in Scotland, well known for salmon fishing. Easily reached by car from Edinburgh or Glasgow (approximately 82 miles from each destination) Loch Tay is an exciting destination for a glamping experience. That’s exactly what Loch Tay Highland Lodges and Glamping provides. Surrounded by woods and mountains on the north side of the loch, the site offers a variety of accommodations, depending on the level of luxury you require and the number of your party. The smallest are wooden camping pods. I stayed at a glamping dome because I loved the all-around triangular windows that really make you feel like you are sleeping in the middle of nature without having to worry about creepy crawlies. There are those that also feature a hot tub or the Stables Bothy for a bigger party. The site features a toilet and shower block as well as a laundry and drying room. If you don’t care to prepare your own meals, there is the Boathouse restaurant. Then there are the two-to-four-bedroom lodges and the cozy woodland cabins.

The loch is certainly big enough for a variety of watersport activities, available from the Taymouth Marina. Loch Tay and the lodge form part of the Largo Leisure Park.

2. Lusty Glaze Beach Camping, North Cornwall

If clamping in the Scottish Highlands isn’t your thing, what about a secluded beach? Just look at the name of this secluded campsite located near Newquay in North Cornwall. Lusty Beach is a wide cove, surrounded by a cliff and only accessed by a 133-step staircase. What awaits you at the bottom are ample bell tents that sleep two and come with a wet room. You don’t need to pitch anything. There is also a restaurant with a chef specializing in fresh seafood who will pack a picnic basket for you should you want to climb up the stairs and venture farther afield to other beaches. Newquay is only a 10-minute walk away if you need any supplies. The greatest attraction is to sleep just steps away from the beach and listen to the sound of the waves. The site can arrange for surfing lessons, or if you wish to meditate, for yoga classes.

3. Bryher Campsite, Isles Of Scilly

It doesn’t get any closer to an exciting nature camping experience than the stay on the smallest of the Scilly Islands, Bryher. The Bryher Campsite is located between two hills and just seconds from a white, sandy beach. You have the choice of bringing your own tent and pitching where you please or renting a rather luxurious bell tent. Just 28 miles off the Cornish Coast, the site is secluded but nevertheless easy to reach. The Atlantic Ocean thunders to the west and Cromwell’s castle stands to the east. Regular ferries run to Tresco, St. Mary’s, St. Martin’s, and the other inhabited islands if you wish to go on day trips. On this campsite, you can indeed exercise your boy scout skills. It’s strictly self-catering but you are allowed to make a barbecue. Onsite are also game fields, two coin-operated washing machines and dryers, and the lovely couple Jo and Tom who run the whole operation and are always happy to lend a helping hand. No dogs allowed.

4. Campden Yurts, Cotswolds

This is the smallest but one of the most entertaining campsites on our list. Located just a 15-minute walk from the Cotswolds’ prettiest town, Chipping Campden, the Campden Yurts site consists of only two luxurious yurts on a hillside. They are called Buttercup and Daisy, respectively. The yurts can accommodate up to five people. They feature a double bed, pull-out futon, wood-burning stove, rugs, and sheepskin throws. They also have a bathroom each and share a kitchen. You have to bring your own bedding unless you book that in advance. Light comes in through a central crown window in the ceiling, although there are additional lamps for the night.

Apart from being worth a trip to admire centuries of architectural styles and even a small museum, Chipping Campden is where you get your supplies or visit a tea room. The entertainment at the campsite is provided because campfires are encouraged so the occupants of the yurts socialize, and once a week they even arrange a pizza night. The ground is a field where cows and sheep once grazed, making it uneven and hence not suitable for wheelchair use. No camper vans and private tents are admitted.

5. Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park, Wales

Simple camping or more luxurious glamping is what you find at the Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park. Located on the Gower Peninsula, Three Cliffs Bay is one of the most photogenic parts of Wales. Imagine a sandy beach, sand dunes, and salt marshes all backed by three steep limestone cliffs. Who wouldn’t want to spend a few days camping there? The best option for me was one of the tents they rent out, smack on the beach with an unparalleled sea view. There are tents with partial sea view or on even ground, too. Then there are the more luxurious bell tents and yurts, also not far from the beach. Bathroom blocks, kitchen blocks, and laundry rooms complete the picture. The whole area is dog friendly and so is the beach. The nearest town is Gower on the peninsula of the same name that not only offers shops where you can get the provisions you need, but also contains a lot of interesting sights and more beaches to visit. If you prefer, you can bring a camper van or a motorhome.

6. Black Berry Wood, East Sussex

Become a child again with the theme of this colorful campsite in East Sussex. Located in the small hamlet of Streak at the foot of the South Downs National Park, the seaside city of Brighton is only 7 miles away but seems to be another world. At the campsite which, by the way, does not allow groups, you can book your own glade in the woods with a fire pit and you can pitch your own tent. Or you can opt for one of two beautifully carved treehouses, named Higgledy and Piggledy, or a gypsy caravan or a curved cabin. Towels and bedding are provided in the treehouses which also have a bathroom and kitchen. If that isn’t enough choice, you can also stay in Angus the fire engine, a red London bus, or even a helicopter. This is certainly the most entertaining and imaginative campsite of them all. In all units, no shoes are allowed, so bring slippers. No dogs either. Kids are brought in a wheelbarrow to your pitch if they don’t want to walk.

7. Humble Bee Farm Glamping, Yorkshire

Here is an idea on how to spend Halloween in a different way! Why not go glamping at Humble Bee Farm in Yorkshire? It’s a working farm with hens, cows, and all other farm animals, located not far from Scarborough and the North Yorkshire Moors. The farm offers all kinds of camping accommodations, from holiday cottages to wigwams, bell tents, and yurts to open spaces where you can pitch your own tent. Best of all, of course, to be closely involved with farm life, you can collect your own breakfast eggs or meet the farmyard gang. They stage events, too, like stargazing and a Halloween celebration with pumpkins just right for Halloween. And it’s child and dog friendly, just make sure you don’t make noise. The farm operators stress that they are not a party venue.

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Camping is the ultimate way to unplug and get away from daily stressors. That is until you realize all the necessary camping gear you need to pack. We’ve made it easier than ever to escape to the great outdoors — and make sure you are fully prepared for all the elements — with this camping packing list.

Of course, we all know the obvious items, like a camping tent, sleeping bags, and outdoor cooking utensils. But what about the often-overlooked safety items, like bear spray and a compass? If you’re staying near water, don’t forget your outdoor recreation toys, like a kayak or fishing supplies. No matter the weather, you’ll want to ensure that you stay dry and warm with clothing designed for the outdoors. This packing list covers all the essentials.

Don’t forget to double-check The Ultimate Vacation Packing List to make sure you have everything! And for more camping inspiration, check out:

• The Secret Tool To Find The Best Camping Near You
• 6 Amazing Camping Spots Near U.S. National Parks
• The One Thing You Need To Transform Camping Into A Glamping Experience

Camping near U.S. national parks can be as impressive as camping in the parks themselves. It is usually incredible and inspiring just to be within the vicinity of these national treasures. Many camping spots near the national parks offer a similar variety of amenities, which can add to your personal connection to the park itself. 

I have included personal tips to help you make the most out of your stay in these campgrounds, some as close as 30 minutes away from the entrance to the national park. Finding a campsite with the comfort and conveniences normally available in the vast areas of the parks will make your time there much more enjoyable and memorable.

Winding River Resort (Near Rocky Mountain National Park)

Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular vacation destination for many families of all ages and interests. Visitors want to see the famous Trail Ridge Road and observe the countless wildlife that roams the parkland. Visiting Estes Park or Grand Lake in your RV is the best way to see the area. Winding River Resort, a five minute drive from the western entrance to Rocky Mountain, is the perfect choice for your stay and where you’ll find all the facilities of home at your fingertips. After all the day’s activities and If weather permits, you can take a horseback ride, go snowmobiling, or simply enjoy the on-premise hiking to top off the end of an epic day exploring the national park and the area. 

Any site within the campground offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains, regardless of the weather. Amenities such as the shower house and restrooms were clean and within walking distance of other campers. There is often a welcome rain shower each afternoon in the Grand Lake area that may produce a rainbow over the mountains if you’re lucky, providing you with a memorable sight. Winding River Resort is popular and I’d encourage you to reserve your campsite as soon as the reservation window for the season opens up. 

Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground (Near Arches National Park And Canyonlands National Park)

If you are anxious to explore Arches National Park, I’d encourage you to book a stay at the Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground. This campground is a family favorite and is at the top of our list when we visit Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Due to the number of people wanting to visit “The Big Five” parks, I’d urge you to book your campsite as soon as possible. More campers than ever before are camping in Utah, and at this choice site, you will be 10 minutes from both park entrances. Handicap accessible sites are also available. 

The campsites at the Moab Valley are not grassy sites. The grounds are like the surrounding area, composed of red dirt, and the campsites are gravel. But the beauty of this area still shines through as you pull up to the registration station, merely yards from the entrances to Arches and Canyonlands national parks. The campground features an incredible views of the surrounding parks. If you prefer staying in a camping cabin, rather than your RV, there are several available. Additionally, the campground has vintage Airstreams for rental. The swimming pool and hot tub at this campground are some of the best ways to end a long day exploring the parks, so make the time to jump in and relish it. 

Boots Campground (Near Theodore Roosevelt National Park)

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is located in the South Unit in the charming town of Medora, North Dakota. The Boots Campground is one mile outside of this historic town and offers RV camping and hook-ups. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is home to bison, coyotes, prairie dogs, and wild horses. You can explore this national park at your leisure because within two minutes, you can find yourself settled in and relaxing at the Boots Campground.

Since this campground is more rustic than the ones mentioned above, it is ideal for RVers looking to get off the beaten path during their National Park trip. They warn that they have no facilities, nor office, on site and do not allow tent camping at this time. However, with only large 16 RV campsites, privacy and seclusion is abundant. The surrounding scenery of the badlands offers the perfect setting to unwind and relax after exploring Roosevelt Park.

The Sturgis Hideaway Campground (Near Badlands National Park)

Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a desirable destination for many. The rich, red rocks of the park are sure to lure you in. The best part about visiting the Badlands is that there are multiple forests and parks nearby worth exploring, including Custer State Park, Black Hills National Forest, and Wind Cave National Park. The Sturgis Hideaway Campground provides easy access to all of the above! Although it’s about an hour drive to the Badlands, many people take the opportunity to drive through Black Hills along the way. The campground is on a 20-acre family farm that offers plenty of seclusion, as well as family-friendly events and activities.

Plan to arrive at Badlands National Park in the early morning when the animals are very active. Take to the hiking trails before the heat of the day reaches its peak and pay attention to the signs along the trails, as rattlesnakes are common inhabitants.  Return to your campsite for a picnic lunch and relax during the hottest part of the day. Once you have enjoyed the tranquility that this campground has to offer, drive back into the park and chase the glorious sunset. This national park offers some of the most incredible sunsets that I have ever seen. Before you leave the area, be sure to spend some time in the world-famous Wall Drug. This well-known road attraction is a must-see for anyone that explores Badlands National Park. 

The Outback Montana RV Park (Near Glacier National Park)

Glacier National Park is home to the well-known Going to The Sun Road. Many people dream of visiting and I’d encourage you to stop dreaming and start doing if you have never been. It’s time to begin planning your trip to Northwest Montana. The Outback Montana RV Park is located in Bigfork, MT, nestled on Flathead Lake and a short 40 minute drive to west Glacier. This campground is absolutely beautiful and offers sites for RV camping, tent camping, and cabin rentals.

If you enjoy hiking, one of the best tips that I can give you is to drive into Glacier National Park at 5 a.m. Park at Avalanche Lake and begin your day hiking through the forest from the lake, breathing in the fresh scent of pine. After you have enjoyed a morning of hiking and everyone else has arrived for their visit, head back to your campsite and relax near or in the stunning blue waters of Flathead. If you’re looking for a cabin, be sure to reserve it as soon as you begin to plan your vacation because they are often booked far in advance. However, The Outback offers a plethora of tent camping sites for those that don’t mind roughing it.

River Run RV Resort (Near Rocky Mountain National Park)

Another excellent camping option near Rocky Mountain National Park is the River Run RV Resort in Granby, Colorado. River Run is a huge campground with plenty of amenities to keep the whole family entertained, including a mini golf course, large swimming pool, outdoor theater, and convenient general store. Their offerings range from cozy cabins, to Airstream rentals, to RV sites, to basic tent camping, but the most unique place to lay your head is in one of their covered wagons, furnished with a king bed and bunk beds.

The campground is situated south of Rocky Mountain National Park and north of Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests for ample outdoor exploring opportunities in less than an hour drivetime. As the name alludes, River Run also provides easy access to Lake Granby and the Colorado River, both perfect for summertime boating or whitewater rafting.

Each of these U.S. national park camping spots is an incredible experience. If you are planning to visit any of the national parks, plan ahead. National park vacations are popular with outdoor enthusiasts, sot o avoid disappointment, pack your patience, reserve your campsites ahead of time, and enjoy the great outdoors. Many national parks are at higher elevations where the weather can be unpredictable, so plan your seasonal trip accordingly.

Your camping experience with an RV can be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime. The beauty and excitement that you will find in each of these campgrounds and U.S. National Parks will be with you for a lifetime. 

For more campground options around the country, check out Campspot.

Whether you’re into roughing it in a tent, having the comforts of home in an RV, or glamping in a cabin, camping is better by the water. Not only do you get to enjoy the great outdoors, but you also get to take advantage of all of the water activities — from crabbing to canoeing.

We partnered with Campspot, a handy site that lets you book top-rated camping destinations online to find the best waterside campgrounds from California to the Carolinas.

Why book your next camping adventure with Campspot? Not only is it the leading online marketplace when it comes to family campgrounds, premier RV resorts, and cabins, but it also guarantees you’ll get the lowest price!

Ready to spend some time in the great outdoors? Start planning your camping trip today. These campgrounds and parks can start to fill up fast! We recommend booking your campsite as far in advance as possible. Reserve your campsite today to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort

Golden Valley in Bostic, North Carolina

Hey, Boo-Boo! Situated at the base of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Bostic, NC, is conveniently located between Asheville and Charlotte. Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Golden Valley’s 600-plus picturesque acres are home to anthropomorphic bears and tons of family-friendly fun. Stay in a luxury cabin or lodge, park it in a full hook-up RV site, or glamp in a tent by the lake.

Canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or fish on the water. Hike to the top of Cove Mountain to check out the new lookout tower, which should be completed this year. Kids will go crazy for the water playground, complete with slides and a pool. The campground also hosts tons of fun activities and events for children.

Crane Prairie Resort

Deschutes County, Oregon

Nestled in the Deschutes National Forest near Bend, OR, Crane Prairie Resort lies about an hour and a half north of Crater Lake National Park. Situated on Crane Prairie Reservoir, the resort offers stunning views, fantastic fishing, a relaxing beach area, and more. Rent a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or even a boat from the Crane Prairie Resort Store. There are trails nearby for hikers.

Stay in one of the rustic, lakeside cabins and make s’mores while sitting around the rock fire pit. While the cabins do have electricity, there is no running water. However, Crane Prairie Resort’s tent camping and full-hookup RV sites have both water and electricity. Each site offers al fresco dining at its very own picnic table.

Castaways RV Resort & Campground

Berlin, Maryland

Located between the Ocean City and Assateague Island, in Berlin, MD Castaways RV Resort offers something for everyone—even Fido! Enjoy a refreshing frozen drink from Jackspot Tiki Bar on the private beach or in the hot tub. Take in the scenic Eastern Shore from the water in a rented watercraft from Top Gun Watersports. Try crabbing, clamming, and fishing at the pier. Kids will dig the mini-golf course, splash pad, pool, and arcade. For four-legged family members, Castaways features a wash station, an off-leash dog park, and Bark Beach, the private dog beach. Bay Breeze Café is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while The Sweet Spot serves hand-dipped ice cream and cappuccino.

Pull up your big rig, rent a quaint cottage or camp in a tent. This seaside camping spot is open seasonally from March through October. During the summer, a complimentary shuttle takes guests to check out to see the wild ponies at Assateague Island and festivals, beaches, and historic boardwalk of Ocean City. Families should giddy up and head on over to Frontier Town Western Theme Park, where registered Castaway guests enjoy discounts on activities.

Weko Beach Campground

Bridgman, Michigan

Weko Beach Campground sits on the sandy shoreline of lovely Lake Michigan. Open seasonally from May to October, this beachfront campground features spectacular sunsets over the water and hiking at nearby Warren Dunes State Park. Swim, rent a kayak, or launch your boat. Seven rustic cabins and 70 RV, tent, and trailer campsites are just minutes from the beach. Onsite, guests can also check out Tanner Creek, picnic areas, and the playground.

The Hideaway Retreat

Navarre, FL

Mature oak and magnolia trees make for secluded and tranquil old Florida vibes at The Hideaway Retreat. Formerly known as Magnolia Beach Campground, this hidden gem takes up 371 feet of unspoiled beachfront property on the Gulf Coast’s Santa Rosa Sound. Located on Florida’s panhandle, Navarre, FL, sits smack dab between Destin and Pensacola.

Navarre Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida that isn’t typically crowded. Canines can roam free on the dog-friendly private beach, dubbed “Pooch Beach.” Kayak, paddleboard, fish, or relax on the deck. Covered by beautiful trees and string lights, a cool campground hangout features fun games. Guests can play cornhole, ping pong, foosball, volleyball, and more. Plus, there are tree swings! Choose from 50 RV sites and 10 tent sites. Bonus: Ben and Erin Napier from HGTV’s Home Town have visited!

Oceanside RV Resort and Campground

Coos Bay, Oregon

Cute as can be, the Oceanside RV Resort and Campground sits on the Pacific Ocean in the charming small town of Coos Bay. This section of the Oregon coast is dubbed Oregon Adventure Coast (OAC) for its abundance of water and outdoor activities. Explore the tide pools on the pet-friendly beach. Kayak, scuba dive, surf, fish, crab, and clam. Prep your catches at the campsite’s crab cleaning and cooking station.

At 40 miles, the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America makes for some awesome ATV’ing. Some of the sand dunes are more than 500 feet above sea level! The area also features whale watching, state parks, wineries, hot air balloon rides, and more. Oceanside RV Resort offers both tent and RV sites as well as cute little vacation rentals. Nothing beats cozying up by the campfire after a long day of exploring the Oregon coast.

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

Mt. Shasta City, California

Want to get away from it all? Look no further than Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort in Northern California’s Shasta Trinity National Forest. Open seasonally from April until November, the campground hosts primitive tent camping, full hook-up RV sites, and retro trailers, but the cabins have the best view of Lake Siskiyou. Speaking of views, you can’t miss majestic Mt. Shasta in the background!

Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort boasts hiking trails, a Splash Zone inflatable water park, boat rentals, volleyball, and fishing. Lake Sis Bar & Grille serves up local, organic California cuisine all summer long. The resort is pet-friendly but does charge a nightly fee. Also, be aware that there are black bears in the area.

Rodanthe Watersports and Campground

Rodanthe, North Carolina

Channel your inner Diane Lane in this Outer Banks beach town on Hatteras Island. Rodanthe Watersports and Campground offers the best of both worlds: quiet, relaxing waterfront camping along with water activities from beachcombing, swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing to windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing. Since it’s on the Pamlico Sound, you can see spectacular sunsets over the water, even though you’re on the east coast.

The Outer Banks is fun for the whole family. Bring your tent or RV and set up camp at this family-run campground. The beach, fishing pier, restaurants, and stores are all within walking distance.

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort Lakes Region

Milton, New Hampshire

Pack a pic-a-nic basket to take to Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Lakes Region in Milton, NH. Not one, but two sandy beaches offer easy access to the Northeast Pond’s crystal clear waters. This campground is perfect for camping with kiddos. In addition to walking trails, there’s gem mining, mini-golf, a giant pillow-shaped inflatable to jump on, two playgrounds, a “laser” tag course, disc golf, sports fields, horseshoes, ping pong, an arcade, a game of giant chess, shuffleboard, and bocce ball. Canoe, kayak, paddleboard, and paddleboat rentals are also available. Full of friendly campers, the resort offers short-term and seasonal campsites as well as cabin rentals.

The Aurora RV Park

Upper Lake, California

On the shores of Northern California’s beautiful Clear Lake, The Aurora RV Park offers mountain views in addition to waterfront camping. Only seven of the 63 full hook-up RV spaces are on the lakefront. However, some of the tent sites and tiny homes — which are converted airport shuttle buses — also come with a lake view.

Explore Mt. Konocti (the local dormant volcano) and Clear Lake State Park. Hike, fish, and enjoy spectacular sunsets. Take in 300-plus degree views of the water from “the point.” The Aurora RV Park provides canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats to campers for free! Plus, it hosts movie nights in front of the lake after the sun goes down. There’s also a game room, as well as croquet and bocce ball. Find restaurants, markets, wineries, shops, and more just half a mile away in nearby Nice, CA.

RV camping offers the comforts of home while being surrounded by nature. Camping in an RV is even better next to a lake. Imagine waking up and sipping your coffee while enjoying serene views of the water. From kayaking to parasailing, lakes also offer plenty of activities you can take advantage of while camping. Here are six lakes that would be perfect for your next camping adventure and some great RVs to do it in!

1. Lake George

New York State

Lake George offers plenty of things to do. Take a step back in time at Fort William Henry. Hop a trolley or mosey around the shops, restaurants, and beaches of Village of Lake George. Take a sightseeing tour or dinner cruise on the water. You may even catch a fireworks show over the lake or some live music while you’re there.

2. Lake Havasu

Arizona

Lake Havasu City is known as “Arizona’s playground” because of all of the recreational activities that are available when you combine a lake with year-round warm temps. With the Arizona heat, you can’t help but cool off in the Colorado River reservoir. Reserve a beachfront RV camping site at Lake Havasu State Park where you can park this cute little Catalina camper.

Head over to the London Bridge to rent a boat and cruise on over to Copper Canyon. Take the ferry to cross over to California and try your luck at the casino. Jet skiing is so popular that Havasu hosts the International Jet Sports Boating Association’s (IJSBA) annual World Finals competition each October. In addition to water sports, the area offers hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, and offroading as well as shopping and dining.

3. Lake Tahoe

California & Nevada

When you think of Lake Tahoe, the Sierra Nevada Mountains probably come to mind before its eponymous freshwater lake. Known as a popular place for winter sports such as snow skiing, in the summer, Lake Tahoe is also a popular spot for water sports, like water skiing. From paddleboard yoga to sailing, there’s no shortage of things to do on North America’s largest alpine lake. Camp lakeside in an RV like Max’s Space Ship and hike or bike to explore the area’s majestic natural beauty.

Straddling the border between California and Nevada, the area is not just divided by state. If you like the nightlife, the casinos of South Lake Tahoe are for you. North Lake Tahoe offers a more laid-back, relaxed vibe. We recommend visiting both and sampling the local cuisine while you’re at it.

4. Lake Berryessa

Northern California

Nestled in Napa County, Lake Berryessa is about an hour and a half west of Sacramento. Known for its open bell-mouth spillway, dubbed the Glory Hole, this man-made reservoir in the Vaca Mountains is one of the largest bodies of fresh water in California. Year-round recreation opportunities include water sports, swimming, fishing, boating, and camping. Park this Classy Coachmen at Pleasure Cove Marina.

With black bears around, you’ll be glad you’re camping in an RV instead of a tent! Grill, picnic, hike, fish, or swim at the two day-use areas, Oak Shores and Smittle Creek. Bird watching is best during the spring and fall. Keep an eye out for eagles, hawks, and turkeys as well as geese, blue herons, and ducks.

5. Crater Lake

Southern Oregon

One of the most gorgeous lakes on earth, Crater Lake is also one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the U.S. Its mesmerizing sapphire waters are the deepest in the U.S. and some of the bluest in the world. Filled with melted snow and rain, Crater Lake was formed when Mount Mazama erupted 7,700 years ago. Located in southern Oregon, it makes Crater Lake National Park the number-one must-see landmark in Oregon. Make the most of your visit by camping at Mazama Campground in this marvelous Minnie Winnie!

Cleetwood Cove Trail provides the only access to the shores of the lake, where swimming and fishing are permitted. However, water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking are prohibited to protect the pristineness of the lake. Visit between early July and late October when Rim Drive is open, which allows you to drive around the canyon, stopping for photos at spots such as Hillman Peak and Wizard Island along the way. During the Ride the Rim event, roads are free of vehicles to make way for hikers and bikers. Crater Lake also features 90 miles of picturesque hiking trails.

6. Mammoth Lakes

East Central California

Nestled in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Mammoth Lakes sits just south of Yosemite National Park, about a six-hour drive inland from the Bay Area and a five-hour drive from Los Angeles. This winter sports mecca is home to one of the country’s largest ski resorts, Mammoth Mountain. However, this adorable mountain town is lovely to visit in the summer and fall as well. Mammoth Mountain RV Park offers full hookups fit for The King fifth-wheel camper.

Mammoth Lakes offers something for everyone. Boutiques and restaurants line The Village at Mammoth, which also hosts live entertainment. Golfers can tee off surrounded by stunning mountain views at Sierra Star Golf Course. Outdoorsmen will appreciate the hundreds of hiking trails in the area, ranging in distance and difficulty. Mountain bikers can have plenty of downhill fun at Mammoth Bike Park.

One of the biggest nearby attractions is Devils Postpile National Monument. These basalt columns formed when flowing lava met up with a glacial dam. Be sure to check out Rainbow Falls while you’re there! Rent a kayak and enjoy the mountain views from the water. Lake Mary, Lake George, and June Lake all offer boat rentals.

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Thanks to the cabin fever many of us experienced this past year, outdoor-focused vacations are skyrocketing in popularity. National parks have never been busier and popular campgrounds are now fully booked months in advance. However, there is good news for campers and RVers tired of overcrowded and commercialized grounds. The booking service Campspot provides the ability to search and book over 100,000 campsites, meaning it’s the easiest way to find camping near you.

What Is Campspot?

Campspot is an online and app-based service that facilitates peer-to-peer campsite rentals. It has multiplied available camping options throughout the entire country. Adopting the Airbnb model, Campspot allows anyone with campground or RV site availability — whether they are an official “campground” or not — to list a portion of their property for camping. Campers and RVers are then able to browse through available sites in their chosen destination, the available features, read reviews, see photos of the exact spot, and book instantly.

Each Campspot listing includes multiple photos of the campsite and the surrounding campgrounds. They also include whether or not the site offers a wide range of features, from the basics like showers and bathrooms to activities like beaches and arcades. Whether you’re looking to “rough-it” in the outdoors in a basic tent and spend the days hiking and fishing, or you’re looking for a glamping experience in a cabin with plenty of provided fun on the campgrounds, Campspot has a listing to help you fulfill your quest.

For those in the beginning stages of planning a camping or RV trip, Campspot also offers recommendations of the Top Destinations and the Most Popular Campgrounds for inspiration. Browsing through the Most Popular Campgrounds, I realized that camping has come a long way. The top selections include an adult summer camp and ultra-luxury RV and cabin grounds, complete with a waterpark that’s surrounded by beautiful landscaping.

One of the most helpful inclusions on each listing is the camper feedback. Past campers are invited to give a star rating and provide a written review of the campsite and property. The reviews provide instant peace of mind for campers looking to explore new spots but wary about arriving at a destination that doesn’t quite match the photos.

The Campspot App

The Campspot app is a recent addition to the site’s repertoire of helpful tools. It has never been easier to search and book your weekend getaway while on the go. Simply open the app, input your destination or choose Near you, input your desired dates and number of campers, and hit Search. Campspot immediately displays available campsites, in your chosen list or map format, and allows for instant booking.

The most convenient feature of the app is the instant messaging. Once a site is booked, the camper and campsite owner can easily communicate about directions, timing, and any other questions. No need to exchange phone numbers; everything is handled and documented within the app.

My Experience With Campspot

This past weekend, my husband and I were sitting at the house on a beautiful Saturday morning. “Want to go camping?” he asked me. Knowing how impossible it has been to find last-minute campsites, I cautiously agreed, as long as we could find a decent site nearby. I downloaded the Campspot app and began my search.

To my surprise, the app pulled up a whole selection of available properties to book instantly. We wanted an uncrowded waterfront campground within a couple of hours of home that allowed dogs. Within the search filters, I selected these options and was immediately drawn to a rustic campground on the river, boasting 100% 5-star reviews.

The campground listing showcased beautiful sunsets over the water and a large remote campsite. Additionally, it listed that pets were allowed and the grounds had toilets available — a huge perk for the hesitant camper than I am. The real selling point, however, were the extra perks available as add-ons. For only $10, they offered to set up a hammock on the campsite prior to arrival and, for a mere $3, a dozen fresh eggs delivered to the site. Done! We booked it.

I received a message through the app from the owner immediately with detailed directions to the campgrounds. She also asked us to please let her know our approximate arrival time so she could meet us at the front and direct us to the site. Sure enough, Shelly was waiting on a four-wheeler and couldn’t have provided a warmer welcome. She showed us our site, walked us around the grounds, and provided excellent tips for exploring around the area.

We absolutely loved our stay; the campgrounds felt so much homier than the commercialized options, and we could only see one other group from our massive plot of land. Our hammock was positioned overlooking the river and provided such a relaxing spot to spend the evening. Near dusk, we ventured to their horse pasture to watch the sunset and returned again later in the night to stargaze. The following day, we followed Shelly’s advice and explored the country roads by Jeep. The entire experience left us feeling refreshed and relaxed — and excited about planning a return stay.

For more camping tips:

• Essential Camping Gear You Need For Your Next Trip
• The Top Five U.S. Campgrounds Of 2020, According To RVers
• 9 Tips To Extend Camping To The Fall And Winter

Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) is located in North Texas, where everything is big, vibrant, and busy. But this area is surrounded by lakes, parks, and miles of scenic country roads, which makes participating in outdoor activities, including glamping, favorable all year long. The glamping sites I came across near DFW are all unique and include air conditioning and heat because Texas’s summers are hot and winters can be unpredictable. And, of course, they include luxury amenities you wouldn’t normally get in a plain cabin in the woods. Glamping has become my favorite way to camp!

Whether it’s a safari tent, yurt, treehouse, Conestoga wagon, or a luxury unique cabin, you’ll find several glamping spots in Dallas-Fort Worth to choose from completely away from the city in serene areas with endless adventures to explore. I scoured the area for the best, and I believe I stumbled upon some pretty neat places to spend some relaxing time and enjoy nature. I was hosted for a night or two at a few of these sites over the years, and the others are places I can’t wait to experience. All opinions here are my own.

1. Silver Spur Resort, Canton

For a fun experience, opt to glamp in a Conestoga Wagon, where you can be a pioneer for the weekend. Silver Spur Resort is a luxury resort for RVers, campers, and glampers located an hour east of Dallas and minutes away from Canton’s First Monday Trade Days, a monthly flea market. The Conestoga wagons are climate-controlled and include a luxury king-size bed, bunk beds, and a small table. It’s the perfect size for a family of four to sleep comfortably at night. There are stairs to climb to get inside the wagons, and the restrooms and showers are a few steps away and are only available to Conestoga guests. Each site has an outdoor grill, and there’s a common area to roast hot dogs and s’mores. For those nights you don’t feel like grilling, there is a smokehouse-style restaurant onsite.

A Conestoga Wagon experience is not for everyone, but if you’re up for it, it’s a fun experience for the whole family. Once you’re at the resort, you and your family have access to many outdoor activities, such as swimming, fishing in the pond, paddle boats, playing human foosball, a playground, and many more fun things to do. It’s a true outdoor experience. My grandson and his friend had a blast here, and they were thrilled when they each caught a perch by its tail!

Pro Tips: Bring a flashlight for those late-night trips to the restroom. No pets are allowed in the wagons.

2. Fuller’s Folly River Ranch, Weatherford

Nature’s calling, and you must go! And trust me, you’re going to want to book an extended weekend. Fuller’s Folly River Ranch is located 40 miles from downtown Fort Worth on the Brazos River just outside charming Weatherford, Texas. You’ll enjoy endless hours of floating, kayaking, swimming, fishing, grilling, watching wildlife, star gazing, and more. There are two types of glamping sites on their property to choose from — a luxury glamping safari tent with full amenities or a unique and magical treehouse equipped with everything imaginable. Either way, you’re glamping at one of the finest areas near the DFW area.

Sundancer On The Brazos

The trickling noise of the waterfall right outside your tent and the voices of critters will assure a good night’s rest at Sundancer on the Brazos. Being nestled in the woods with a wrap-around porch will keep you daydreaming. Be sure to bring a book for those quiet moments on the porch and plenty of supplies to make s’mores for the kids. My family was hosted here a couple of years ago in the wintertime. We enjoyed cooking s’mores over the fire pit while bundled up with blankets and hot cocoa in hand. No need to bring your own kayaks and tubes — they are included with your stay! You’ll love it any time of the year.

Hobbit Tree House

When you thought glamping was only in a tent — here you go! The Hobbit Tree House is a unique two-bedroom luxury treehouse loft. It’s a treehouse that isn’t in a tree, so there are no stairs to climb to get inside; however, there are stairs inside. The Hobbit House comes with a full kitchen and bath, and the luxury continues on the gorgeous deck outdoors with a jacuzzi and a private waterfall.

3. Paradise Cove, Grapevine

Experience lakeside glamping, kayaking, fishing, picnicking on Lake Grapevine in a yurt at Paradise Cove. It comes complete with air conditioning and heat, a mini-fridge, microwave, and a private bathroom with a shower steps away from the yurt. A quiet spot on a private peninsula on Lake Grapevine is all you need for a quiet glamping experience. If you need an early morning wake-up call, don’t bother using your phone’s alarm; the nearby roosters will do that for you!

For a bonus stay, you’re not far from the quaint town of Grapevine should you want or need to go to town to shop or grab a bite to eat. If glamping in the wintertime is what you’re looking for, you may want to read these fabulous reasons to visit Grapevine, Texas, during the holidays.

4. Best Day Ever Ranch, Whitewright

How does the idea of glamping in a cozy cabin up in a tree sound to you? If you love it, you’ll want to check out Best Day Ever Ranch (BDER). Hidden away in Whitewright, Texas, about an hour’s drive north of Dallas, you’ll find this treehouse filled with luxury amenities with a romantic flair. The bathtub alone is worth a stay!

When BDER opened for camping in 2016, they invited my family and others to come and out and experience cabin life and the gorgeous grounds of the ranch. Anyone who stays here is welcome to all ranch activities, including the clubhouse, a golf cart, hanging out with the llamas, acres of hiking, fishing in the nearby pond, and more. We had a blast tooling around the ranch and going to the pond on that golf cart. We stayed in a cabin but got to tour the treehouse. Its place on the ranch is in a perfect hidden spot in the woods. But as you can imagine, there are steep stairs that lead up to the treehouse.

5. Country Woods Inn, Glen Rose

About an hour’s drive southwest of Fort Worth is a unique and unusual way to spend a family getaway in the woods. Whether you call it camping or glamping, I call it unusual. Country Woods Inn calls it “adventure camping” and offers a few ways to enjoy the sounds of nature. Choose to stay in a renovated Santa Fe boxcar nestled in the woods with a log cabin look that includes a full kitchen, sitting area, an old clawfoot tub, and a unique playground for the kids. Or rent the vintage Airstream that will allow you and your family to hang out outdoors. If you prefer, enjoy family time inside at the half-circle sitting area with air conditioning and heat and more amenities that will suit your fancy.

Either way, you’ll be surrounded by forty acres of wide-open spaces in the woods on the Paluxy River with places to swim available. You also won’t be far from the historic downtown square of Glen Rose and will be minutes away from the awesome Dinosaur Valley State Park.

6. SkyBox Cabins, Glen Rose

Another fine way to glamp Glen Rose is at SkyBox Cabins — an adult-only getaway and the ultimate way to experience the great outdoors. There are unique cabins to rent, and then there is The Glamp. It’s a fully furnished two-tent site with air conditioning, heat, and a cozy outdoor dining area. The bathroom and small kitchenette are located in a building steps away. There’s no TV, so bringing a book and games is a wise idea.

Pro Tip: It’s a short walking distance from the parking area to the tent entrance.

7. The Farm House Retreat, Chandler

The Farm House Retreat is a one-of-a-kind experience in the woods. Located about an hour east of Dallas in Chandler, Texas, the retreat is a wedding and party venue but allows anyone to rent their glamping cabins. You will think you’re in The Beverly Hillbillies with the distinctiveness of the cabins and the wooded surroundings. My favorite is the Across the Pond Cabin, where I would be delighted reading a book on the porch and looking out at the lake.

8. Savannah’s Meadow, Farmersville

A dream treehouse getaway for you and your loved one located about an hour’s drive east of Dallas, Savannah’s Meadow will melt your heart. If you’re like me, you’ll never want to leave. While you’re out enjoying nature, grab a bike or jump in a canoe and take off to explore from April to November. From the looks of their schedule, you may want to plan to book your stay for a romantic weekend well in advance.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to glamping, go ahead and dive into this luxurious way of camping, and I bet you’ll be hooked as I am. It’s definitely a different way to enjoy camping and the great outdoors. Don’t expect it to be cheap. It’s not, but is well worth your time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Since 1889, Carhartt’s long-lasting gear has had a reputation in the hard-working man’s world. Now the company is correlating its craftsmanship into outdoor clothes and camping gear. From hiking boots to women’s performance leggings, these quality products have the same durability and warranty as the coveted Carhartt coveralls.

If any of Carhartt’s creations fail to meet your expectations, they’ll either repair it or replace it. Even damage due to normal wear and tear can be repaired at a reasonable rate. Can you say that about any of your other camping gear? Invest in the best with this camping gear from Carhartt.

Large Pack + 3 Can Insulated Cooler

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This heavy-duty backpack is available in four colors: tarmac, navy, black, and classic Carhartt brown. Carhartt’s super durable backpack is made out of dense CORDURA® ripstop polyester fiber. Plus, Rain Defender® technology makes it water repellent!

The 30-liter backpack features a large main compartment, a zippered mesh panel, and a separate dedicated padded compartment for electronics. Accessible from a side zipper, the separate sleeve can hold up to a 15-inch laptop. (Not that you’ll need your laptop or tablet while camping!) A fleece-lined eyewear compartment keeps your sunglasses scratch-free when you’re not wearing them. There’s also a zippered compartment on the front where you can keep smaller items organized.

A padded air-mesh back panel and contoured shoulder straps feature FastDry® technology to wick away sweat and keep you comfy. It also includes a strap that goes across your chest as well as a padded belt for your waist. Both are adjustable and can be hidden away when not in use. We picked the large backpack over the medium-sized one because it has two mesh pockets on the sides to hold water bottles, which is great when you’re hiking. Speaking of hydration, it also comes with a detachable three-can insulated cooler, plus, it is compatible with hydration bladders.

Hip Pack

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Have you heard the good word? Fanny packs are back! What great news since its such a convenient way to keep essentials within arm’s reach without having to carry anything. Carhartt’s version is super durable. It also repels water to keep your goodies nice and dry.

A large main compartment means you can fit plenty of necessities, while exterior zipper pockets let you stay organized. Two side loops provide a place to attach any extra lightweight gear.

Force Fitted Midweight Utility Legging

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Now when someone refers to their “Carhartts” they may be talking about leggings. That’s right, the classic hardworking men’s clothing line now makes women’s wear! These babies are sweat-wicking, odor-fighting, and built to last.

Nylon and spandex come together to make these durable leggings flexible enough to be the perfect pair of pants for camping and hiking. Plus, they have pockets! You read that right: Leggings with pockets.

Normal leggings don’t last long in the woods, but Carhartt leggings are a bit thicker than your average bear. They also feature reinforced knee panels for added durability.

Form-fitting yet comfortable, these mid-rise beauties are pretty stylish, too! Available in XS to 3X, regular or tall, Carhartt Force Fitted Midweight Utility Leggings come in black and dark coffee.

Flame-Resistant Force Cotton Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

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Most people use flame-resistant clothing for work purposes, but it could come in pretty handy for building a fire or cooking over a flame, don’t you think? Carhartt’s Force long-sleeved cotton shirt is also perfect for hiking in the woods. The sleeves protect from ticks, while the lightweight jersey material is nice and breathable. FastDry® technology fights sweat and odor, which is great for the great outdoors. This rib-knit crewneck is available in sizes S-4XL.

Multi-Tool

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Be prepared for all eventualities while camping with Carhartt’s handy multi-tool. Its nine tools include six closed 3/16 to 1/2-inch hex wrenches, a slot that works on butterfly nuts, a handy straight edge for on-the-go precision, and Philips and flathead screwdrivers.

Perhaps the handiest features for camping are its bottle and can openers. It can even act as a compass! TSA-approved and smaller than a credit card, this multi-tool is about as thick as a nickel, so you can keep it in your wallet. It can also be clipped to a belt or attached to a keychain to hang on your backpack.

Rugged Flex® Steel Cargo Pant

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Carhartt’s Rugged Flex® Steel Cargo Pants are built to move, so they’re perfect to wear while camping and hiking. Cotton makes these pants breathable, while CORDURA® fabric makes these durable cargo pants resistant to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. Spandex ripstop provides stretch with strength. A zip pocket on the leg is perfect for holding your phone while on a hike.

Men’s Lightweight Non-Safety Toe Work Hiker

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Speaking of hiking, that’s what these boots were made for. Available in sizes 8-15, medium and wide width, Carhartt lightweight hiking boots are ready to hit the trails. The Storm Defender® waterproof membrane helps your tootsies stay dry on rain-soaked trails while still being breathable. They are lined with FastDry® technology to wick away any sweat. Footbeds are made with Insite® technology for maximum arch support that reduces foot fatigue. Carhartt also carries lightweight hiking boots for women!

Storm Defender® Loose Fit Heavyweight Jacket

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Storm Defender® technology makes this jacket waterproof yet breathable. Available in gray, black, navy, and olive, this loose-fitting men’s jacket comes in sizes small to 4XL, both regular and tall. Knitted cuffs, a flapped zipper, and its snap-on drawcord-adjustable hood protect against the toughest weather. The hem also has an elastic drawcord. It also has plenty of pockets, both inside and outside. Perfect for fishing, this heavy-duty raincoat is machine washable. The women’s version comes in four attractive colors.

So many of us have memories of sitting around a campfire, telling ghost stories or sharing family legends, and roasting marshmallows to form this delectable treat — s’mores. 

Doesn’t the thought of a roasted marshmallow, melting chocolate, and graham cracker just make your mouth water? While it takes your heart and your mind back to a kinder, gentler time? One where the long summer days and lazy summer nights allowed a slowing of life in general.

But have you ever wondered about what it would be like to have more than the classic milk chocolate added to this awesome American pastime? I really hadn’t until recently…

We enjoyed a multi-generational girls’ night with baby boomer and fitness goddess Patti Bashor, 59; Gen Xer “Smart Alice Attorney,” Aly Bashor, 34; international grad student and chocolate connoisseur Jackie Mullen, 23; and myself, Gen Xer, physician, travel writer, and purveyor of fun, random things to do, Gail Clifford, 50.

We gathered treats, chocolate-based, peanut butter, and cherry — anything we saw in the candy or baking aisles at the store that looked like it would taste good with the classic graham cracker and marshmallow — and headed for the fire pit. 

Cool and dark, the Arizona night sky showcased stars and deck twinkle lights. We settled into our chairs, huddled around the fire against the chilly desert breezes.

Read on for our taste-tested combinations, calorie checks, and s’mores-making pro tips below.

1. Peanut Butter

First up? Peanut butter. About a teaspoon spread across one graham cracker square. 

First responses: “Yum.” “That’s good.” “Really good.” A perfect score. 

We each tried one s’more with milk chocolate and one with dark chocolate. Preferences remained the same. If you prefer milk chocolate in real life, we found you’ll prefer milk chocolate here, too. If you prefer dark chocolate, you’ll prefer dark chocolate here. Though I can tell you as a milk chocolate prefer-er, the dark chocolate tasted better to me here than anywhere else I’ve tried it.

The most favored PB among all generations: Skippy. Its creamy goodness and light taste were just the right addition to our milk or dark chocolate and uplifted the taste of these otherwise classic s’mores. 

Calorie Check: So you know, the typical s’mores contains about 145 calories: 65 calories for the two graham cracker squares, 25 calories for the marshmallow, and 55 calories for the quarter of a chocolate bar (double to 110 calories if you use one chocolate piece on either side of the marshmallow). 

We’ve calculated our basic s’mores graham cracker and marshmallow at 90 calories. The chocolate remained at 55 and the peanut butter, one thin layer, measured in at 40 calories. So, this scrumptious treat uses 185 calories of your daily allotment. Totally worth it!

2. Cherry Pie Filling With Dark Chocolate

Next up? Cherry pie filling with a dark chocolate candy bar. “Very Jerry Garcia,” from the Gen X fan of Ben & Jerry’s. 

“If this was raspberry, oh yeah,” from the baby boomer. That would be worth checking out. 

“With wine?” I asked. She tipped her glass to me, sipped, tipped her head. “Even better.”

From the Millennial, “Better with less cherry.” 

Warning: This concoction did make the biggest mess, so take care in adding the cherry topping. If you take a teaspoon and put it on one side only, and flip the marshmallow, chocolate, and other graham cracker on top, there will be less to clean from your hands.

Calorie Check: Graham crackers, marshmallow, chocolate square: 145 calories. A teaspoon of cherry pie filling calculates at 30 calories. Only 175 calories! I’d plan on it a few times a week if I built fires that frequently. This could become a regular habit without much effort!

3. Fun-Size 3 Musketeers Candy Bar

We realized these candy bars may not melt easily from the heat provided by the marshmallow alone and considered slicing them in half, lengthwise. 

We were right. The 3 Musketeers, Baby Ruth, Butterfinger, and Snickers bars we tried did not melt completely.

It became obvious that we needed to make the point to take a bite to sample all three — bar, marshmallow, and graham cracker — to get an accurate representation of flavor. 

The whipped chocolate of the three musketeers bar added a little lightness to the overall taste and blended most easily with the marshmallow. 

Pro Tip: Slice the fun-size candy bars in half, length-wise, for best taste combination.

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Fun Size 3 Musketeers Bar: 65 calories. Just 155 calories. Only 10 more calories for the additional lightness in flavor and texture. And only 122.5 calories if you cut the bar in half. Hmm…

4. Fun-Size Baby Ruth Candy Bar

The Baby Ruth provided a fuller body flavor to the s’mores. 

“I like that” — from the Baby Boomer who doesn’t usually like this candy bar. 

As a Baby Ruth fan, I, too, enjoyed this one. The younger participants found it a little harder to chew through, though.

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Fun Size Baby Ruth Bar: 85 calories. 175 calories total.

5. Fun-Size Butterfinger Candy Bar

“Crunchy,” said Patti, “I like it,” as she tried a bite of the Butterfinger s’more. Surprising, as this is a candy she doesn’t typically like. 

“Not a big fan,” said Jackie as she tried her Butterfinger s’more.

Evenly split among the crowd, the harder core to this candy bar makes it a take-it-or-leave-it option. Try it and see for yourself.

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Fun-size Butterfinger Bar: 85 calories. 175 calories total.

6. Fun-Size Snickers Candy Bar

The Snickers bar made the rest of the s’more components seem redundant, like a fried breaded fish wrapped in a tortilla. Responses on this combo were split down the middle. 

“Nutty,” said Jackie. “It’s okay, but I like the others better.” 

“The Baby Ruth is softer than the Snickers,” I contributed. “I don’t think the Snickers adds too much — it makes the graham cracker seem redundant somehow.” 

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Fun Size Snickers Bar: 80 calories. 170 calories total.

7. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup

A Reese’s peanut butter cup, we figured, would be an easy win with the benefits of peanut butter without the need for additional chocolate. Surprisingly, it was not as good as the peanut butter and chocolate added separately, but it was the third favorite of the night overall. 

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Peanut butter cup: 105 calories. 195 calories total.

8. Cherry Pie Filling (Without Chocolate)

Finally, cherry pie filling alone. No chocolate, just cherry, marshmallow, and graham cracker. While messy, it tasted better than the one with chocolate to the group overall. 

Everyone liked it. 

My favorite response came from my fellow Gen Xer: “I like it. It’s a punch of sweetness to my face.” 

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Cherry pie filling: 30 calories. 120 calories total makes this a great sweet treat.

9. Chocolate With Almonds

We went back to the original, with dark chocolate or milk chocolate with almonds. Both good, but, after the combinations we’d just had, no longer our favorites. 

Calorie Check: Graham cracker and marshmallow: 90 calories. Chocolate with Almonds: 55 calories. 145 calories total.

While we all agreed they were good, our favorite was clearly the addition of a thin layer of peanut butter to the graham cracker beneath the chocolate. 

We had a great time joining friends outdoors on a cool, starry night for this experiment on a childhood classic. 

My favorite phrase of the night, “Can we do more articles about food?” (from Jackie). “I’m happy to taste-test for you.”

Maybe we’ll try variations on your mother’s root beer float next. Kahlua, anyone? 

Pro Tips For Enjoying S’mores

• Keep baby wipes handy to clean sticky fingers.
• Roast one or two marshmallows at a time for best results. The chocolate treats melt better with fresh-from-the-fire marshmallows.
• Whether to slow-roasting or quick-fire our marshmallows to crystallize the outer segment was answered as much by the fire pit as by us. No marshmallows were burnt, so this factor played little or no part in altering the overall taste.
• If you try this at home or on your next camping trip, have designated marshmallow roasters for fastest compilation.

Frances “Baby” Houseman and Johnny Castle inspired many as they danced their way into a summer romance in the Catskill Mountains. To experience something akin to the adventurous summer at Kellerman’s Resort may have been a dream for fans of the film, but now that dream can become a reality. Prepare yourself to walk, eat, sleep, and of course dance, on the same grounds as Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze did while filming the 1987 classic, Dirty Dancing!

Fans of the ’80s film can now venture to the same settings where Dirty Dancing was shot. For a few weekends every summer the lodge where parts of the movie were filmed hosts Dirty Dancing themed weekends. If you think that sounds like the ideal summer getaway, then brace yourselves for this next tidbit: Superfans everywhere can also get more of the Dirty Dancing experience at a festival honoring the film. Hosted in Lake Lure, North Carolina, where other parts of the film were shot, the Annual Dirty Dancing Festival is not to be missed. We urge you to put on your dancing shoes and make arrangements to attend one (or both!) of these fun, interactive summer getaways!

Get The Dirty Dancing Experience

The idea of a Dirty Dancing summer camp for adults seems far fetched. In fact, it sounds downright too good to be true, however, we can assure you it is real — and it’s an experience no Dirty Dancing enthusiast should miss out on.

Fans can get dressed up in their favorite Dirty Dancing attire and discover the magic behind the film at Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, Virginia, in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Every year, there are four Dirty Dancing themed weekends with itineraries full of Dirty Dancing-inspired activities. Some of the activities include group dance lessons, a dance party at Mary’s Barn, and a scavenger hunt. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served at the lodge’s on-site cafe, Harvest.

Accommodations offer guests the chance to stay at the main stone lodge shown in the movie, front lawn cottages, or historic rustic cabins. There is additional lodging and individual homes are available for booking as well.

Rates start at $350 a night for a double-occupancy room. Although three of the four weekends for 2019 have passed, there is still one last chance for a 2019 Dirty Dancing weekend starting on August 23. Act quickly before it’s completely booked, or at very least get Dirty Dancing camp on your agenda for 2020!

The Real Kellerman’s Resort

Many people who’ve come to love the film will remember the location as Kellerman’s Resort, but the location’s real name is Mountain Lake Lodge. The resort gets a lot of its traffic from fans of Dirty Dancing hoping to hunt down the iconic resort shown on film. Since the 1850s, however, the lodge has been servicing guests and enjoying a steady stream of business since it’s close to the Appalachian Mountains and Virginia Tech according to Baltimore magazine.

Heidi Stone, Mountain Lake Lodge’s general manager, attempted to lessen the lodge’s reliance on traffic from the film by incorporating some renovations and adding an adventure center that includes a ropes course, archery tag, and a very large inflatable slide — the tallest inflatable slide in the U.S. However, overall, she acknowledges the importance of the film for their business, “People are coming here, essentially, to see Kellerman’s,” Stone told Baltimore magazine.

The article on Mountain Lake Lodge goes on to say, “wherever you look, there are reminders — some subtle, some not — of the resort’s cinematic legacy: a large sign reading ‘Kellerman’s Mountain House’ stands proudly on the front lawn; a glass cabinet inside the main lobby showcases movie merchandise; signposts scattered around the grounds point out the locations of crucial shots; and one TV in the bar plays the movie on a continuous loop.”

Even the lodge’s employees are required to watch the film before being hired just in case visitors decide to pick their brains on the lodge’s connection to the film.

One can only imagine how tiresome the film references become for employees, but that is quickly replaced by seeing eager guests.

“It’s like taking a kid to Disney World. You may have been there 25 times, but the kid hasn’t, and they’re like ‘Whoa!’” Stone told Baltimore.

Can’t Get Enough Of Dirty Dancing?

As many of the dates for the fun-filled Dirty Dancing weekends at Mountain Lake Lodge have passed, perhaps you’re wondering if there are other ways you can transport yourself back in time to the world of Baby and Johnny. Well, you’re in luck — there is more Dirty Dancing fun to be had!

Lake Lure, a town in North Carolina, puts on a Dirty Dancing festival every year in honor of the beloved film. Why this town of all places? Well, the parts of the film that weren’t shot at Mountain Lake Lodge were filmed here! The 2019 festival is being held on September 13 and 14 and this year marks the festival’s 10-year anniversary.

When, Where, And What Happens?

Friday night’s events will span from 5 to 11 p.m., beginning with a kick-off party full of live music, entertainment, and, of course, dancing lessons. At 8 p.m. there will be a free screening of Dirty Dancing. There will also be a tribute to the festival’s 10th anniversary, recognition of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCan), and a time to honor the festival’s special guests and remember the late Patrick Swayze, who had pancreatic cancer.

Saturday’s events will span from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and will include a full day of live music, watermelon races, games, competitions, contests, dance performances by the Asheville Ballet, and more dancing lessons. To end the celebration, brave souls can line up to re-enact Baby and Johnny’s water scene by participating in the Lake Lift Competition.

The festival’s website has a listing of the live-entertainment lineup. Be sure to take a look and get inspired!

Tickets

Tickets for the event are on sale now and are sold by the day. Tickets for Friday night’s festivities start at $10 for adults, $5 for children, and group prices (for 10 attendees and up) are $8. Tickets for Saturday’s festivities are $25 for adults, $10 for children, and group tickets are discounted to $22.50 (for 10 attendees and up). A percentage of the proceeds from the festival will be donated to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCan).

So, before the summer is out, pack your bags — don’t forget your dancing shoes — and dive into the world of Dirty Dancing while participating in these unique experiences at iconic locations!

Headed to Lake Lure? Great Smoky Mountains National Park is less than an hour and 30 minutes away, so why not pencil in one (or more!) of these eight beautiful Smoky Mountain hiking trails for even more nostalgia-inducing scenery?

Piney woods, gently sloping hills, and freshwater kettle ponds grace 1,900 acres at Nickerson State Park in Brewster, Massachusetts. It is difficult to believe you are a short, walkable distance to Cape Cod Bay when all the beautiful woodlands surround you. Situated on the northern shore of the Cape just before the land bends northward, Brewster offers visitors a great location for exploring the eastern portion of Cape Cod.

Camping at Nickerson State Park is a fun, nature-driven experience. The park offers over 400 campsites for tents, RVs, and trailers. They even have yurts available to rent, allowing you to camp without lugging tons of gear. Featuring hiking, boating, swimming, fishing, and offering easy access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, Nickerson State Park has plenty of options for enjoying a nature-driven vacation. Campers who have visited know, with the limited amount of spaces and the opportunity for enjoying the great outdoors, the spots fill up quickly. Reserve your camping spot early for the best selection.

Spend the day enjoying the park if you are more of a “hotel stay” type of vacationer. You can enjoy everything Nickerson State Park has to offer; it provides a nice change of pace from the crowded Cape beaches. There is a daily parking fee charged from Memorial Day weekend through November with in-state and out-of-state rates.

Things To Do In Nickerson State Park

Vacationing at Cape Cod’s Nickerson State Park is an opportunity to unplug, slow down, and let Mother Nature’s embrace lull you to a peaceful inner state. You can be as active or as laid-back as you desire.

The park is a wonderful spot to enjoy a sunrise camp stove coffee while the sun illuminates the lake and the birds fill the air with their morning songs. At the end of your day, bond with your family and friends over a s’mores-filled campfire as the night sky twinkles with starlight.

Hiking Trails

The hiking trails at Nickerson run the gamut from paved paths to wooded treks through the woods and around the ponds. There are many popular hikes around the park, and 12 different hikes are rated and reviewed on AllTrails. You will definitely find a hike that suits your skillset.

Little Cliff Pond hike wraps 1.7 miles around this delightful kettle pond. The easy hike is mostly flat, but there are a few gentle hills to test your legs.

Rated as a difficult 8.5-mile, out-and-back hike, Nickerson State Park Long Trail will wander you through the park’s wooded areas. The path is reasonably well marked and takes you by offshoot trails that provide views of the lakes.

For a beautiful summer afternoon hike, head out on the Higgins Pond Loop Trail. The easy to moderate 2.2-mile hike around the lake offers beautiful views of the water. There are some hills to challenge your workout, along with the usual roots and rocky path obstacles.

Beach

Cliff Pond is the largest pond in Nickerson State Park, clocking in at 204 acres. It is a kettle pond or kettle hole lake carved by the glaciers. With a beautiful beach and surrounded by a shady forest, this unique swimming hole will bring you back to childhood memories of lake swimming. Whether you hike over or drive (there are limited parking spots), you will enjoy swimming in the cool, clear water.

There are eight freshwater ponds at Nickerson State Park to explore. Each visit to the park’s water features offers a different experience.

Boating

There are many boating options available at the park, from motorboats and stand-up paddleboards (SUP) to canoes and kayaks. You can tote your own equipment giving you the freedom to enjoy the water on your time and terms. Alternatively, there are rental options all along the Cape to help you enjoy your on-the-water fun.

Boating is allowed on the ponds with a few restrictions. Cliff pond has a 10 HP maximum engine limit. However, electric motors are allowed in Flax Pond. Both ponds have boat ramp access.

For a person-powered experience, rent a kayak or SUP from Lea’s Boat Rentals. The outfitting company is run by ambitious college students and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Located steps from the water, Lea’s is the easiest rental option for the Park.

Biking Around Cape Cod

Nickerson State Park offers over 10 miles of paved bike paths. The center trails loosely form a figure-8 that winds you around the wooded park, offering peeks of the lakes.

The path also connects to the Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT), a well-maintained, 25-mile-long paved path enjoyed by bikers and hikers alike. The path runs from Yarmouth to Wellfleet and crosses through scenic areas of the Cape. You will pass through quiet residential areas, cranberry bogs, and sections of the National Seashore. The trail is mostly flat and you will see many riders on cruisers, which are perfectly suitable for the CCRT.

There are many bike rental options along the CCRT. Brewster Bike is a good option with its proximity to Nickerson State Park.

Sleep In A Yurt

A traditional yurt is a portable, round tent used by nomadic groups in Central Asia. At Nickerson State Park, it is a fun and interesting camping experience. Renting a yurt is perfect if you don’t own a tent. You only have to bring some basic camping gear and you are ready to rough it.

The yurts at Nickerson State Park sleep four people. They are equipped with a table, chairs, and bunk beds (no linens). Happily, they offer electricity and water hookup. Many of them are located in fully shaded areas to keep you cool at night. A large percentage of the yurt rentals are ADA accessible. You can book a yurt rental at Reserve America. Nickerson is a popular camping destination, so booking early is suggested.

Fishing For Trout

Nickerson is home to eight freshwater kettle ponds. Some are stocked with trout for your fishing enjoyment. If you have never tasted fresh-caught, pan-fried trout, you are in for a tasty angler’s dinner. Alternatively, the Higgins Pond catch-and-release fishing program may be more to your liking, and you can find a fish and chips dinner at a local restaurant.

There are a large number of bait and tackle shops around the Cape. Cape Days has an extensive list; you will surely find one that has exactly what you need to outfit your fishing adventure at Nickerson State Park.

John Kelley Memorial

Every fan of the Boston Marathon has heard the legendary John Kelley. He ran in the race from Hopkinton to Boston 61 times and won it twice. The Hyannis John Kelley Half Marathon is typically held on Memorial Day weekend in his honor. I have run this race, and you need to know, the Cape is not as flat as you would expect. However, the race has beautiful scenery and is a fun way to spend a day.

Nickerson State Park has a John Kelley memorial plaque to honor his contribution to the art of running. Hopefully, it will inspire you to take to trail as a runner or a walker.

Park Ranger-Led Programs

Ranger and staff-led programs focusing on natural and cultural history and highlighting the environmental features are held intermittently throughout the summer. You will find rangers leading tours, workshops, and presentations around the park and at the amphitheater. A check-in with the ranger on duty will allow you to explore what is happening during your stay.

Camping In Nickerson State Park

Camping at Nickerson State Park allows you to escape the hectic beachgoers buzzing around the Cape in a hurry to get somewhere. The laid-back, nature-driven vibe in this secluded haven is perfect for a camping adventure filled with lazy days sprinkled with bursts of physical activity.

Nickerson offers over 400 campsites for your fresh air enjoyment. Many sites have water views overlooking one of the kettle ponds, and most sites allow pets. In addition to the yurt rentals, there are sites for pop-ups, tents, and back-in sites. You can book your Nickerson State Park campsite at Reserve America. Nickerson State Park is a popular camping destination, so booking early is suggested. There is a 14-cumulative-day occupancy limit at the park.

If you are craving some outdoor relaxation time where you can soak up nature’s gifts, spending some time camping at Nickerson State Park is the perfect prescription.

Pro Tip: Sections of the park can be used for group day use, and the park may be closed to visitors, be sure to check their website or call for closure updates.

If you are looking for other Cape Cod activities, check out our Weekend Getaway To Cape Cod: The Best Things To See And Do. The beaches are amazing, and we have two articles about enjoying additional fun in the sun time: Cape Cod National Seashore: The 7 Best Experiences and The 11 Best Beaches On Cape Cod.

Since its creation in 1891 via the Forest Reserve Act of 1891, the National Forest Service (or NFS), a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has established 177 protected areas totaling over 192 million acres. That includes 155 forests and 22 national grasslands. Breaking that down even further, the NFS maintains 403 wilderness areas and 23,000 developed recreation areas.

Those are some impressive numbers, but what it means for you and me are amazingly beautiful landscapes to explore, with cascading waterfalls, shimmering lakes and ponds, towering mountain ranges, and so much more. And best of all — it’s all publicly owned. And you may not know this, but there is probably a national forest just down the road from you. In fact, 7 out of 10 Americans live within 100 miles of a national forest.

There is a major difference between national parks and national forests. A national park protects and preserves unique places, such as historic and natural sites like the Grand Canyon National Park or the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. National forests, on the other hand, protect large tracts of lush wetlands, thick forests, waving grasslands, wilderness areas, and thousands of miles of rivers and streams all designated as being multiple use. Forest land is not only used for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping, but also logging and cattle pasture grazing.

So, what is there to experience in your national forests? Plenty!

1. Scenic Drives

What connects the public to the beauty and natural wonder of our national forests are their scenic byways and drives. These drives are the result of partnerships between the NFS, several other federal agencies, and many small communities across the country. They provide easy access to the nation’s magnificent landscapes — its blazing fall foliage from overlooks like those along the Kancamagus Scenic Byway in New Hampshire; drives through narrow rock tunnels in stony mountains on the Norbeck Scenic Byway in South Dakota, or stops at an Amish roadside stand on the Amish Country Byway in Ohio.

In all, there are 9,126 miles of roadway that make up 136 scenic byways, and that number is growing.

2. The Trails

What’s your pleasure? Hiking? Biking? Horseback Riding? Today’s national forests provide over 133,000 miles of trails for everything from hiking to ATV riding to snowshoeing.

The national forest service oversees some of the country’s most incredible recreational and scenic trails. Some of the more famous include the only sub-tropical trail in the country, the 1,300-mile-long Florida Trail, the 2,600-mile Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail that stretches from Mexico to Canada on the U.S. west coast, and the granddaddy of them all, the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail.

When hiking, biking, horseback riding, or whatever your favorite trail-based activity, remember that most of the trails within a national forest are not blazed. Some are, but generally, they’re not. That is to keep the forest as pristine and natural as possible. Always bring along a GPS or a map and compass to keep you on track. Cell phones are OK, but signal reception is dicey at best in most forests. Even if you are riding ATVs on forest service roads, they can be confusing, with a myriad of dirt roads that all look alike.

No matter what brings you to a trail in one of our national forests, the rangers always need a helping hand. With so many trails, it’s difficult to maintain them all. Contact the NFS to find out how you can pitch in and help maintain these trails.

3. Wildlife Viewing And Birding

Wildlife viewing and bird watching are rated high on the list of why visitors come to a national forest. Pick a spot and sit quietly, and you are sure to see some incredible wildlife. In the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests of North Carolina, black bear roam free through the old-growth oak, hemlock, and tulip poplar forests. Moose saunter down the paths and peregrine falcons soar overhead in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. Mountain goats, river otters, and harbor seals are the norm at the spectacular Tongass National Forest in Alaska, which has some of the wildest stretches of forest in the country.

When wildlife viewing in a forest, please follow Leave No Trace principles: Keep your group small to avoid damaging the animal’s habitat; do not chase, feed, or force animals to flee; and do not touch or pick up a wild animal.

For the most part, it’s best to travel quietly through the forest, but in some cases, like in bear country, you should make a little noise to let them know you’re there.

4. Camping

Camping is a pure joy at any one of our national forests. Whether it’s tent, RV, or backcountry camping, you are sure to have a peaceful night’s sleep under the stars.

Many of the national forest recreation areas have improved camping, where sites have water, electricity, picnic tables, and fire rings. If you’re an RVer, there are also full-hookup sites. For tent campers, every site has a nice, level gravel pad where you can pitch your tent.

Sites can be reserved by selecting the national forest you will be visiting on the Recreation.Gov website, which will also give you the latest fee schedule. But be sure to register early. They fill up fast.

If you’re a backpacker, you’ll love hitting the trail and spending the night at a rock outcropping with a spectacular view, or near a lake or waterfall. Backcountry camping is allowed anywhere within the boundaries of a national forest but you must follow their Dispersed Camping rules to avoid harming the environment.

5. Dark Skies

Less than 100 years ago, you could walk out your back door, look up into the night sky, and be mesmerized by the brilliant shimmering stars in the night sky. Today, most people have never seen the Milky Way due to light pollution. The cure is to visit one of the national forests near you.

There are many areas within a national forest that provide the perfect setting for stargazing, areas known as Dark Sky Parks that give you an unobstructed view of the billions of stars and galaxies in the night sky, far from the light-polluted skies we have all become accustomed to.

For your best views, move away from the public campgrounds and head to the water. The banks of a pond or lake give you the best areas for getting lost in the stars. We all love to sit around a crackling fire at night when we camp, but douse the flames to get a flawless view. And better yet, visit the NASA Night Sky Network to find a stargazing club and event near you, where fellow star watchers make your viewing more fun and informative.

6. Paying Your Way: Fees

Generally, entry into a national forest is free; however, you will have to pay a day-use fee or camping fee if you visit one of the 40 developed recreation areas across the country. Fees vary from forest to forest, so before you go, find the national forest you will be visiting on the USDA website to obtain that forest’s fee schedule. And as mentioned earlier, you can find the latest camping fees and reserve a campsite online at Recreation.Gov.

Fees are waived on certain national holidays: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, National Get Outdoors Day, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day.

Special permits are required for off-highway vehicle riding, rock climbing, shooting ranges, and cross-country ski trails.

7. Safety First

A couple notes about exploring our national forests safely. Remember, cell phone signals can be elusive in wilderness areas. Always let someone know your plans before heading out — where you are heading, the route you will take, and the time they can expect you to return.

If there is a trail register at a trailhead, sign, date it, and leave a note as to where you are going. That way rescuers will be able to find you in case of emergency.

And remember, hunting is allowed in our national forests. Contact the forest’s headquarters about dates, and wear hunter orange.

Further Reading:

• 6 Best Hikes in Alabama’s Talladega National Forest
• Exploring Bankhead National Forest: The Land Of 1,000 Waterfalls
• 7 Incredible Hidden Locations In National Parks And Forests
• Camping Gear Essentials For Cold-Weather Camping
• Last Year’s Best Outdoor Gifts

Way back in the mid-’70s, my boyfriend Barry and I tested our commitment to each other by taking a three-month trip to the British Isles. (Happy to report we passed the test!). Soon after we arrived, we bought a “Dormobile,” a popular but now-extinct British camper van, and traveled around the spectacular countryside exploring Britain’s national parks and villages. When we left the country, we sold the van for the same price we had bought it for.

It took us another 25 years, but we eventually bought a secondhand camper van on this continent, a Westfalia, or “Westie,” as they’re affectionately called. That van lasted us from 2001 to 2013, before its motor died — in a remote part of Death Valley! We survived that adventure, thanks to an ex-Iraq War mechanic we met in our campground, but decided that at our age we were too old for such mishaps and were overdue for an upgrade. We were thrilled to eventually buy a Eurovan, which is hard to find because they’re no longer manufactured. We hope it’ll last us the rest of our lives.

In both vans, we’ve explored all over the West Coast in every season, on short trips of two nights to up to three weeks. While we love road trips, we far prefer a camper van to an RV. Here are 10 reasons why.

1. Size And Maneuverability

What’s not to like about a compact, nimble vehicle that you can drive not only on country roads but around town? We’re intimidated by the size and length of an RV! Plus, with a van you don’t have to tow a car to run a simple errand, nor do you have any height restrictions.

Thanks to our van’s small size, we often camp in informal, inconspicuous, off-road spots, what the French call sauvage, or wild camping. We find these secluded places by driving down rutted, narrow tracks, which an RV could never negotiate. We’re often by bodies of water or overlooking jaw-dropping views, usually (but not always) legal ones an RV couldn’t fit into. If on the off chance the spot isn’t legal, odds are we won’t be seen. (In all our years of camping, only one time have we been moved on, and one time ticketed. Take it from us: If you don’t want to pay a hefty $180, don’t spend the night in the Visitor’s Center parking lot of the Point Reyes National Seashore Visitors Center north of San Francisco).

Editor’s Note: Sauvage or wild camping is also known as boondocking and dry camping. If the concept is new to you, consider our Guide To RV Boondocking: Why We Love It And What You Need To Know.

If we have friends we’d like to see in a town we’re passing through, we sometimes ask ahead if we can spend the night on their driveway, and as a way of saying thank you, we’ll cook dinner. (Not that simple to park an RV on a driveway). My go-to meal is pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and feta. “Make” is an overstatement: It’s an assembly-only pasta dish, simple but always a hit with our hosts.

2. Spontaneity

Not much pre-planning is required because our van is so compact. For example, we’re leaving within a week on a road trip and spending the first couple of nights in Mendocino, California, where we’ll see old friends. After that, we have tentative ideas, but nothing confirmed. It’ll depend on the weather and where our moods take us. We wouldn’t have this degree of flexibility with an RV.

3. Ease Of Driving

Our van is low-stress, barely different from driving a sedan, whereas we’ve heard that driving an RV can get tiring very fast.

4. Frequency Of Use

The Eurovan is so simple and inviting, we use it a lot — a couple of times a month and even more all last year during the pandemic, when it saved us. I’m sure we wouldn’t use a huge RV as often.

5. Efficiency And Organization

I’m not by nature a highly organized person, but our van forces me to be. If we drove an RV, I’d be free to spread out as much as I wanted. Having a smaller van prevents me from bringing too much stuff.

6. Fewer Arguments (And Marital Harmony!)

Barry, meanwhile, is alarmingly tidy. My tendency to create small puddles of clutter can cause tension between us at home. A smaller van helps to prevent that — and to preserve our marriage!

7. It Serves Multiple Purposes

Because our van is small and simple, we can use it for short outings of only an hour or two. Sometimes, on a pretty evening, we’ll drive the van a few blocks from our apartment to a road overlooking our bay, park the van sideways to the curb, open the sliding door, and enjoy a sunset glass of wine. During the pandemic, on Sundays, we’d often drive the van to a nearby nature spot, take a walk, then heat up soup and tea for a cozy lunch under a tree in the parking lot — a satisfying way to cap the outing.

When the van is parked in the lot opposite our apartment, I’ve used it as an art studio, where I play around in my sketchbook in the afternoon. And when I’m out of town, Barry will occasionally drive the van to a nearby beach early in the morning and make himself a cup of coffee while he watches the waves.

8. Breaking The Ice

Folks are interested in vans. There’s something accessible and inviting about them. People often admire ours and ask if we’d mind showing them the interior. When we’re on the road, our van has been a great icebreaker and led to many enjoyable conversations with strangers and fellow road warriors.

9. Lower Costs

Not only are vans less expensive than RVs, they require less gas and are charged less on toll roads, at campgrounds, and in storage. We leave our van in a covered storage area when we go to Mexico for part of the year, and the fees are very reasonable.

10. Carbon Footprint-Conscious

We like knowing we’re doing our part to reduce our carbon footprint by driving a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle than a mammoth RV. Our van gets 18 to 20 miles per gallon, versus an RV’s 8 to 12.

All that said, vans aren’t for everyone. We have traveled with a friend by bringing an extra tent, but more than that would get crowded. Even with just two of us, we have to unfold our “sofa” (a comfortable padded bench) to make our bed every night.

And although some vans come with a toilet, ours doesn’t, though we do have an outside shower that we rarely use. Since we go on van outings mostly in the warmer months, we’re often swimming in rivers or lakes during the day anyway. If we need a shower, we stay in a formal campground or spring for a motel room.

As for a toilet, we prefer not having one because it takes up valuable space. Between campgrounds, visitor centers, trailheads, gas stations, and restaurants, it’s not that difficult to find public restrooms in the U.S. and Canada. If no other option is available, we keep a small spade handy to do our business in the woods.

In the end, it comes down to personality and preference. We’re two people who like to keep it simple, leave no trace, and live in small spaces, wherever we are, be it our 700-square-foot apartment in Eureka, California, or on the road in our Eurovan.

Are you in search of a new place to camp in the Midwest? Southeast Minnesota is where you will experience rolling hills and nature that you will not find anywhere else. This area of Minnesota is 30 miles from where I reside in Iowa. I’ve always thought it is one of the most overlooked areas for camping in the United States.

With the scenic bluffs along the Mississippi River and incredible biking trails, it’s an ideal spot to set up your camper. Here are several campgrounds that you should plan to experience at some point in time. They all offer clean campsites and a natural setting for campers to experience. Camping is increasing in popularity, and I would encourage you to reserve your campsites as soon as you make camping plans.

1. Maple Springs Campground: Preston

Maple Springs Campground offers beautiful campsites in a forest setting. Full-hookup campsites are available, and a dump station is on site. Hiking and biking trails are nearby, as are kayak and bicycle rentals. You can also stroll along the stream as you wander through the campground. Be sure to look up, down, and around. There are numerous photo opportunities and experiences all around in this beautiful campground in Southeast Minnesota.

This campground works best for self-contained units, as there are no showers or laundry facilities on site. A bonus is that this is a great campground for a work vacation, as the Wi-Fi is terrific.

2. Old Barn Resort: Preston

The Old Barn Resort campground in Preston, Minnesota, offers campsites for campers of all types. If you have a tent or an RV, you will find a campsite that meets your needs. Full-hookup sites are available, and some of them do include sewer hookups at the site. Public restrooms are available, and showers are available for a small fee. With 274 campsites and an 18-hole golf course nearby, you will have an opportunity to find your ideal campsite and swing a club or two.

The Root River Bike Trail System is accessible in the campground, as is Root River tubing. With a heated indoor swimming pool on site, this campground makes a great place for an extended family camping adventure. You can be as busy as you choose when staying at the Old Barn Resort campground.

3. Trailside Campground: Houston

Large grass campsites sit in the Trailside Campground, west of Rushford. Full RV hookups, restroom, and shower facilities are also available for campers. If an extended family reunion is on your radar, the shelter house would make a great gathering place for family members. Level campsites with access to the Root River Trail make this an ideal campground for active outdoor enthusiasts. If you are looking for a smaller campground with easy trail access, this campground will quickly become a favorite of yours.

4. Great River Bluffs State Park: Winona

The Great River Bluffs State Park campground offers incredible hiking that offers views of the Mississippi River Valley. With an RV length limit of 60 feet, several units can stay in the campsites in the campground. The showers and restrooms are handicap accessible and offer campsites that are close to these facilities. Make sure you have your binoculars with you, as birding is very popular in this area of Minnesota. Bald eagles frequent the area, as do other migratory birds. Pack your hiking gear and don’t be afraid to hike the trails while camping in this beautiful campground. A tip that I would give you is to visit in the fall. The fall foliage is stunning, and the views from several peaks that overlook the Mississippi River are fantastic photo opportunities.

5. Bluffview Campground: Rushford

Bluffview Campground offers 19 large campsites with access to the Root River Trail System that runs through Rushford, Minnesota. If you are Norwegian, like I am, or curious about the Norwegian heritage, you can experience a lefse factory, Norland Lefse, along the trailhead. Anytime I can connect food with a bike trail, I’m excited to hop on a bike and share the trail. If you want to take a break from cooking over the campfire, several restaurants are within walking distance.

One of my favorite places along the Root River Trail in Rushford is the visitors center. It is located in a building on the National Register of Historic Buildings, a historic 1867 railroad depot. When you camp in this campground, you will place yourself in the heart of rural America, where you can enjoy a slower pace.

6. Eagle Cliff Campground And Lodging: Lanesboro

One of our favorite campgrounds in the midwest is Eagle Cliff Campground and Lodging near Lanesboro, Minnesota. A variety of campsites are available along the river as well as in the valley with beautiful views of the bluffs of Southeast Minnesota. The Root River Trailhead is one mile from the campground. You can follow the trail signs in the campground to take you to the trailhead. The charming town of Lanesboro is three miles away. Ride your bicycle into town and explore for the day. River tubing, canoeing, and kayaking are also fun activities in the area. Spring and summer are exceptional times to visit for fun on the water. The colors are exceptional during fall.

7. Whitewater State Park: Altura

The Whitewater State Park Campground offers campsites for RVs up to 50 feet and numerous wheelchair-accessible sites. Modern restrooms, buildings, and showers are also available for campers. This state park campground is an ideal park for the novice hiker, with several easy and moderate hikes throughout the park. Several trails lead through wooded valleys and forests that provide shade, with a limited number of mosquitoes. When you camp in any of Minnesota state parks, make sure you have a Minnesota State Park Permit.

8. LazyD Campground: Altura

The White River Valley is home to several stunning campgrounds, including the LazyD Campground in Altura. With 125 campsites for all campers, there is one that will meet your needs. Each site also has picnic tables and fire rings for your enjoyment. One-hour trail rides make this an extra special campground for outdoor fun. This trail ride offers an extraordinary view of the scenic Whitewater Valley before you ride deep into the forest.

There are standard tent sites as well as full electric and water campsites. A swimming pool, laundry facilities, sanitary dump station, Wi-Fi hotspot, and clean restrooms with coin-operated showers are offered for campers to use.

9. Pla-Mor Campground: Winona

Six miles south of Winona, Minnesota, you will find the Pla-Mor Campground. With 80 campsites that welcome all campers with several shaded sites. Water, electric, and sewer hookups are available throughout the campground. A swimming pool, playground, and a large shelter house make it a fantastic campground for a family reunion weekend. The Mississippi River is nearby, offering all river activities, incredible hiking, and outstanding views from the bluffs in the area.

Pro Tips

Each of these campgrounds offers campsites that will provide an opportunity to experience the natural setting in Southeast Minnesota. Before you set up camp in any of these campgrounds, I would suggest that you visit a grocery store to stock up on all of your favorite camping foods. Many of these locations are in rural settings, and it’s not a short walk to a grocery store. Some of these campgrounds have small camp stores that stock many essential items. If you want specific items, stock up before you are settled into your campsite.

Bring your bikes, kayaks, canoes, and hiking boots. Some of these campgrounds offer Wi-Fi, and some do not. If you want to disconnect and relax a little more, choose a campground that has less connectivity. Southeast Minnesota is an area of the United States that is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, including an incredible experience camping under the stars.

Northeast Iowa is home to valleys, cliffs, streams, and trails that offer outdoor opportunities everywhere. One of the simplest ways to enjoy the area is to set up camp. Many campsites offer views that you cannot find elsewhere, including incredible views of the Mississippi River. Each of these campgrounds offers nature experiences and an opportunity to connect with the great outdoors. If you enjoy camping, you will want to camp in these campgrounds in Northeast Iowa.

This area of Iowa is home to several private and state-owned campgrounds. Each campground offers spectacular views and experiences. If there is one thing that I would recommend doing while camping in Northeast Iowa, it’s floating on one of the rivers. The bluffs and views along the river banks will take you to a quieter place in time, and you will find yourself connecting with nature like never before.

1. Pikes Peak State Park Campground, McGregor

Pikes Peak State Park campground is home to 77 campsites. Half of the campsites are available on a reservation basis, which leaves the other half open to a first-come, first-serve basis. Electric and water campsites are available, as are standard electric sites. A short hike from the campground will take you to the highest bluff on the Mississippi River, Pikes Peak, at 1,130 feet. From this peak, you can see the confluence of the Wisconsin River and the Mississippi River. Looking to the north, you can see the twin suspension bridges that connect Iowa and Wisconsin.

Bring your binoculars and camera with you to this point, as the views are majestic. There are miles of hiking trails within Pikes Peak State Park, including incredible vistas, streams, babbling brooks, hills, and valleys. Bridal Veil Falls and Bear Mound are all a short hike from Pikes Peak State Park campground. This state park offers limited cell service, making it a great place to disconnect from the busy world around us. Fall is a fantastic time of year to visit, as the leaves are bursting with color. The views that are a short step from your camper are incredible.

2. Pulpit Rock Campground, Decorah

Pulpit Rock Campground offers several reservable sites, as well as first-come, first-serve sites. There are two sides to this campground, the Pulpit Rock Side and the Twin Springs Side, divided by a trout stream. Several pull-through sites, back-in sites, and tent sites are available. A canoe landing, trout stream, and easy access to the Trout Run Trail make this a popular campground for outdoor enthusiasts. Wi-Fi is available, along with playground equipment, a basketball court, and a volleyball net. Bring your outdoor gear and be ready to keep moving, and enjoy the scenery that the Decorah area has to offer. After a long day in the outdoors, I would recommend taking a walk to the Whippy Dip. You can get in a 1.5-mile walk and enjoy some of Iowa’s finest ice cream.

3. Yellow River State Forest, Harpers Ferry

The Yellow River State Forest has the nickname “Little Switzerland.” Allamakee County is home to this state forest, which offers more than 8,500 acres for trout fishing, hiking, hunting, cross country skiing, and horseback riding. There are hills, valleys, and outstanding views that you will fall in love with within this area of Iowa. This state forest offers more than 170 campsites all year long. If you are a horse lover, you will appreciate the equestrian campsites. These campsites are great for self-contained units or those who want the authentic outdoor tenting experience, as there are no electric sites. Campers will want to carry in drinking water, as the only place you can find drinking water in the state forest is the A-frame information center. If sleeping under the stars, surrounded by nature, is something you aspire, you will appreciate every moment camping in Yellow River State Forest.

4. Volga River Recreational Area, Fayette

The Volga River Recreational Area is home to two campgrounds. The Albany Campground has equestrian and non-equestrian campsites. The equestrian campsites all have electrical hook-ups, whereas the non-equestrian campsites do not have electrical hook-ups. Running water is available with vault toilets. Lakeview Campground offers modern showers and a sanitary dump station. All of the campsites here have full hook-ups, with some including sewer. Both of these campgrounds provide level campsites and an opportunity to camp under the stars. The facilities are all modern and up to date, which makes it a very clean and safe place to camp.

With 22 miles of multi-use trails, this recreational area is one that you don’t want to miss. The equestrian trails are great for horses and hikers. The paved road throughout the Volga River Recreational Area is great for riding your bicycle. Frog Hollow Lake is near Lakeview Campground and offers bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and largemouth bass for the avid fisherman. Small boats with no wake can be operated on this lake. The Volga River offers kayaking, canoeing, and an opportunity for fishing.

5. Lake Hendricks Campground, Riceville

Lake Hendricks Campground is part of the Howard County Parks system. All campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. With 80 modern and primitive camping sites, you are sure to find one that fits your needs. Electricity, water, showers, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings are at each site.

A butterfly garden, 54-acre man-made lake, fishing, picnicking, biking, canoeing, and boating (electric engines only), a beach, nature trails, and an archery range make this campground a favorite. Relax at your campsite in the shade of the trees while enjoying a campfire.

6. Chimney Rock Campground, Cresco

Floating the Upper Iowa River is easy when you camp at Chimney Rock Campground, near Cresco, Iowa. Northeast Iowa’s best-kept secret is here in this corner of Iowa. The bluffs and scenic views along the Upper Iowa River are second to none. Shade trees and the forest makes for a welcoming campsite during the heat of summer. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent. Electric campsites are available and can be reserved through their website.

7. Spook Cave And Campground, McGregor

Spook Cave and Campground offers a unique experience, camping, and caving. Campsites are spacious and offer full hook-ups for campers. Campsites are available near the trout stream and waterfall. The towering bluffs surround the campground and, along with the large trees, offer shade. Take the underground cave tour by boat and experience one of Iowa’s fun caving experiences.

Fall is an exceptional time to visit, as the foliage is incredible. The rich orange, yellow, and red-orange leaves will be enriched in your mind forever. Fall in this area of Iowa is a memorable experience. The outdoor adventures are endless when you camp at Spook Cave and Campground.

8. Lake Meyer Park And Campground, Fort Atkinson

Winneshiek County is home to Lake Meyer Park and Campground in Fort Atkinson. Canoeing, kayaking, and boating with electric motors are all permitted on the 30-acre lake. The 160-acre park includes 27 electrical campsites and a handful of non-electric sites. Flush toilets, showers, and a dump station are on site.

Lake Meyer is stocked with northern pike, bluegill, black crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. There is easy access along the lake for fishing off of the banks. There is also a handicap-accessible dock with a 60-foot fishing jetty.

Each of these campgrounds offers an opportunity to connect with nature in Northeast Iowa. The lakes, streams, trails, and the Mississippi River will help make your camping experience one of your best camping experiences of all time. With several campsites on a first-come, first-serve basis, reservations are not required, but they are recommended. If you like to travel with a plan and know where you want to stay each night, make your reservations ahead of time.

Northeast Iowa offers incredible views and experiences that many people don’t often think of being in Iowa. Your outdoor camping experiences will be what you make out of them. Embrace nature and allow yourself to slow down and connect with nature as you set up your campsite.

You’ll find Broken Bow within undeniable natural beauty in the mountainous region of southeast Oklahoma. This area is, without a doubt, a nature lover’s dream with so many outdoorsy things to do. Nestled in the Ouachita National Forest and the Kiamichi Mountains are Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow Lake, and an eclectic selection of Broken Bow cabins. These and many other attractions and activities are what bring visitors here year-round.

Broken Bow, Oklahoma, is roughly four hours northeast of Dallas and a short drive from the Arkansas border, and it’s no secret (anymore) to many who flock here from Texas and other driving-distance locales. It’s one of the best destinations in Oklahoma to experience hiking, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, bird watching, fishing, and more. Whether you’re coming here to hike through the National Forest, spend time in the park, or zip-line over Broken Bow Lake, you’re covered with things to do while making memories with your family.

I was hosted at Aspen Aspiration for two nights, and I took my mom along for a mother-daughter getaway. All opinions remain my own.

Editor’s Note: Don’t miss Kim’s Broken Bow cabin recommendations below this list of things to do!

Things To Do In Broken Bow

What’s there not to love about the forest, the mountains, and nature? With a lake in the state park and a river to boot, and the wide range of scenery, there’s no shortage of outdoor experiences in Broken Bow. Having been in the area recently, I’ve gathered that this is the perfect place for families and the perfect atmosphere for adults and couples. From fun family attractions to breweries and wineries, any reason is a good reason to vacation here.

While there, we found some pretty incredible places to grab a bite to eat. For great pizza and a large area for outdoor seating, head to Grateful Head Pizza. My mom and I declared that the best hamburgers can be found at Mountain Fork Brewery. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t worry, we spotted a few ice cream shops, too.

1. Beavers Bend State Park

Once you take that turn into the park, you’re in an outdoor paradise. Beavers Bend State Park is where Broken Bow Lake is, and many land and water activities, cabins and lodges, and some attractions listed below are as well. There is no admission fee to enter the park, but some areas of the park require a small fee for parking your car.

Pro Tip: The best time to visit the park really depends on whether mind crowds. It gets very crowded in the summer, especially on weekends. You may want to book your vacation in the fall when it’s less crowded.

2. Broken Bow Lake

Unlike most lakes I’ve been in, Broken Bow Lake has water so clear that you can practically see the bottom. That’s because it’s covered with rocks — not mud — which makes playing in the lake much better. The lake covers 14,000+ acres and is bordered by many miles of shoreline, making it easy to get in and out. It’s the perfect destination for boating, water sports, swimming, fishing, and more. The thick forest mountain terrain that surrounds the lake makes hiking and bird watching that much more serene. And, don’t forget to bring a picnic if you’re planning to stay all day. There are plenty of shaded places under the tall trees.

3. Beavers Bend Depot And Trail Rides

This is another family gem inside Beavers Bend State Park — and not just for kids. At Beavers Bend Depot and Trail Rides, everyone can go on any of the guided horseback trail rides they offer and board the train that takes you through the forest in the park. Bring along your dog no problem — they can ride too as long as they are leashed. And, after having that much fun, it’s ice cream for everyone at the snack bar! If you ask me, you don’t have to have a child to enjoy the rides here!

4. Zip-Line Across Broken Bow Lake

How does zip-lining over the lake sound? You can, and it’s saved for the last! Located inside Beavers Bend State Park, Rugaru Adventures welcomes people of all ages to come out and experience its spectacular six-line zip-line tour. After zipping through the forest, you’ll zip the last line over Broken Bow Lake and experience breathtaking views all around you. I have zipped a few lines in my travels, and after I experienced this one, I deemed myself a zip-line junkie — and bought the t-shirt in their store!

Pro Tip: There are a couple of steep hills to walk up and one downhill walk, all over unpaved natural terrain.

5. Beaver’s Bend Mining Company

Dig for bones and pan for gold at this huge outdoor adventure for the whole family. Kids will enjoy learning about fossils and artifacts and even get the chance to ride a T-Rex! I don’t think my grandson will ever outgrow looking for treasures, especially if it involves dinosaurs. Check out more at Beaver’s Bend Mining Company.

6. Tiki Time Lake Tours

It’s tiki time on Broken Bow Lake! Relax on the deck with a cold beer in one hand and a wine-a-rita in the other. Take a ride on the tiki bus to the tiki boat for a one-hour lake cruise. What a great way to enjoy the water on a hot summer day! Any way you want to enjoy your time, the Broken Tiki will take great care of you and your gang. Kids are welcome.

7. Float The Lower Mountain Fork River

Starting around spring break (March), you can float the Lower Mountain Fork River four miles from Broken Bow by way of a kayak, canoe, inner tube, or any other means that fits your fancy. It all happens at River Rats Canoe and Kayak Rentals. Another fantastic way to enjoy the water!

Pro Tip: You can bring your own kayak or canoe.

8. Riverman Trail Rides

Make family memories while taking in all the Ouachita Mountains’ beauty on a guided horseback ride or a wagon ride. There are a couple of places that offer trail rides, but locals told me Riverman Trail Rides is the best place to go for horseback riding. They also offer private fishing services.

9. Hochatown Rescue Center And Petting Zoo

A wildlife rehabilitation center is always the best place to enjoy the wild. Knowing these animals are being taken care of and have a home where they are protected is awesome. Opened year-round up the road in Hochatown is Hochatown Petting Zoo — a friendly petting zoo where you can interact with barn animals. Treat the kids to a pony ride if you have the time.

Broken Bow Cabins

You’ve entered the amazing world of backcountry cabin life in Broken Bow. From small rustic cabins to spacious cabins with all-out modern luxury, there’s a Broken Bow cabin that’s suitable for you and your family. There are also great selections of cabins for multi-family gatherings. Summertime in Broken Bow is very popular and therefore crowded, so if you find the cabin you want to rent, it’s a good idea to secure it ahead of time. It’s all about planning if you want the cabin of your choice, especially in the summertime.

Pro Tip: Be sure to read your cabin’s guest book for some fun tips for enjoying the area.

Aspen Aspirations

I was hosted for two nights at this cabin in Hochatown, managed by Rustic Luxe Cabins Broken Bow. My mom and I pampered ourselves in luxury for two solid days. We couldn’t have asked for a more superior cabin to stay in at Broken Bow. It’s also one of the newest cabins in Broken Bow and has everything a family could ask for, even a shuffleboard table in the loft!

Five Star Cabins

Five Star Cabins came highly recommended to me by a friend who loves road tripping about as much as I do. She rented her cabin through Airbnb and told me there are six log cabins to choose from — all just minutes from Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow Lake, and Mountain Fork River.

Call Of The Wild Cabin

Another brand new luxury, modern cabin in Broken Bow, this cabin is located in Hochatown. This cabin sleeps 18 with five bedrooms and six baths. Wow! Bring the whole gang here and share expenses. You can rent this cabin through Beavers Bend Creative Escape.

Even More Broken Bow Cabins

See TravelAwaits’ picks for the best value, midrange, and splurge cabins in Broken Bow, plus seven other options, in our roundup of the Best Broken Bow Cabin rentals to escape to right now.

Pro Tips

When planning your vacation, don’t overlook Hochatown. The town has always been a part of Broken Bow, but so much growth is happening that the town will soon get its own zip code. Many of Broken Bow’s restaurants and wineries are located in Hochatown. The area gets super busy in the summer months and is sometimes even too crowded from the locals’ points of view, so plan wisely if you don’t like crowds.

While you’re in the area, you’ll also want to consider these 10 surprising things you can experience in Oklahoma and the nine best hikes in beautiful Oklahoma.

It’s no secret that many of us are turning to the great outdoors for travel and adventure — perhaps more so now than ever before. And while getting up close and personal with Mother Nature can certainly give us more than our share of incredible scenery and experiences, a typical tent stay doesn’t necessarily appeal to everyone.

So why not consider transforming camping … to glamping? With a few relatively low-cost tweaks, you can be a lot more comfortable when you’re sleeping out under the stars! Here are a few of our favorite tips and tricks to take your outdoor accommodations to the next level, and boost your overall enjoyment … especially if you’re not terribly in touch with your roughing-it side.

1. Plan For Plenty Of Room

The first thing you’ll want to consider is your tent. We recently opted to purchase a new tent and decided we wanted plenty of headroom, plus ample space for our gear. We are car campers — and set up a basecamp as opposed to backpacking — so we didn’t need our tent to be light as a feather or overly compact. Claustrophobia isn’t our thing, and, let’s face it, it’s not exactly luxe or comfortable to have to crawl into your sleeping space, either. We ended up purchasing Coleman’s 8-person Montana dome tent. There was plenty of room for our small family, our accessories, and our pampered pooch (and yes, we brought his bed for him as well!). We really liked the tent’s large screened and zippered windows, and how easy it was to put together. All in all, it was a winner, and the price for us — occasional glampers — couldn’t be beat.

2. Choose Your Sleeping Setup Carefully

Even in a nice, spacious tent, you’re still going to be sleeping on the hard ground unless you plan ahead, and we’re talking beyond the typical backpacking sleeping bag or mat. In our minds, a good air mattress is a must. While they are a bit heavy and bulky — even folded up — they make an enormous amount of difference in the quality of sleep you’ll get during your camping experience. You’ll want something tough that can stand up to uneven ground without running the risk of a puncture or leak. Some models specifically designed for camping come with built-in pumps, but we just brought our guest air mattress from home. Queen-sized and extra plush, it worked just as well to elevate our experience. We consider this an essential key to glamping!

Also, leaving the sleeping bags behind and actually making up your bed with plush pillows and nicer linens adds a luxe touch to your tent. Sure, it’s an extra set-up step, but won’t take much time and will help to make you feel that much more comfortable.

Pro Tip: Make sure you bring extra batteries that fit your air mattress pump in case you burn through them. A semi-inflated air mattress is no fun.

3. Throw It Down

Consider bringing a couple of small inexpensive throw rugs with you when it’s time to pack for your glamping trip. They are functional — you’ll want to take your boots or shoes off before entering your tent to prevent tears or rips on the floor — but also help make the space, inside and out, look a little more, well … homey. Consider adding one inside by the side of your bed (or beds) for a little extra style and comfort. It’s pleasant not to feel plastic on your bare feet first thing in the morning, especially if it’s a bit chilly.

4. Light It Up!

This is one of our favorite tips. Sure, the stars will be bright, and if you’re lucky, the moon full, but there’s just something about the extra glow of lanterns! We love the solar Solvinden lanterns available at IKEA. They are super-light, squish down to nothing, and come with hooks so you can hang them inside or outside your tent, as well as from nearby tree branches. The next morning, just make sure they get direct sunlight and recharge so they’ll be ready to glow all over again. Solar string lights are also fun to hang around your campsite, just make sure to also give them the light they need to recharge. For a small, stylish lantern for inside your tent, check out the Black Diamond Moji Lantern. It’s adorable, functional and throws off enough light to allow you to easily read a book in your comfy tent long after the campfire burns down. It’s also stylish enough that you might just make it part of your at-home decor, too!

5. Don’t Be Afraid To Accessorize

After a long day on the lake, hiking on the trails, or exploring the shore, there’s something really reassuring about coming back to a camp that’s welcoming, comfortable, and feels like a haven instead of a reality-show survival competition! As you start to assemble your glamping pieces, don’t be afraid to coordinate. Matching colors to complementary patterns when considering linens, rugs, pillows, and other items will help create a soothing space for you to hang your hat each night after all that outdoor adventure.

Pro Tip: One of our favorite outdoors-meets-indoors accessories for the tent is a small, colorful, and lightweight bedside table. These little places to stash your lantern, a glass of water, or a favorite book help make that tent feel more like home.

6. Bring Your Favorite Foodie Snacks

We all love s’mores and hot dogs, but if you want a little more than a kid’s menu to go along with your glamping, don’t hesitate to meal plan. Your favorite foodie staples will actually fit right into your weekend. Marinated chicken and steak keep well in the cooler and can be easily grilled to perfection over a campfire or pit (just be sure to make sure you’ve got plenty of ice on hand, or access to it, to ensure food safety). Your favorite salads can easily be assembled and sealed in glass Mason jars and dressed and tossed when ready to serve. Many favorite foodie items — including crudites, cheese, and charcuterie, can also easily be prepped ahead of time and tucked into a corner of your cooler. And yet others, including nuts, crackers, cornichons, and olives, don’t need any special storage at all. Bottom line: Going fancy on the food isn’t that difficult.

Also, there’s no hard and fast beverage rule for glamping. If you love beer, by all means, bring your favorites. But remember — some terrific wine also now comes in cans or even eco-pouches. During a recent trip, we brought along Underwood pinot noir and bubbly rose. We didn’t worry about fussing with a bottle, the wines paired well with our food, and they were easy on the budget, to boot!

One last dining tip: Think about bringing a tablecloth and even inexpensive plastic, reusable dishes and barware. Not only does it make your table more elegant, but it’s easier on the earth, too!

7. Choose Your Tunes

Nothing sets a mood like a well-curated playlist. Pre-load one onto your phone, bring along a small Bluetooth speaker, and prepare to relax and unwind to your favorite music. The beauty of this set-up is that it relies on short-range radio-waves, not an internet connection. So even if you’re in the middle of nowhere, you can still enjoy a fabulous soundtrack out under the stars!

8. Invite The Outdoors In (To A Point!)

Staying near a lake, river, or — lucky you — an ocean? Bring shells, pretty rocks, or sea glass back to decorate your dining or play space. Hiking the woods? Grab a fistful of flowers (if permitted, of course!) and throw them into an empty can or jar for an extra style point on tables or inside your tent.

Elevating a ho-hum camping experience into a luxe glamp isn’t that tough — it just takes a little bit of extra planning and panache. Investing in just a few pieces, and using what you have on hand at home, makes all the difference in the overall experience. Try it, we think you’ll agree!

One last thing: There’s nothing at all glamourous about being attacked by critters during your adventure. Make sure to zip up your tent screen immediately as you’re entering or exiting to prevent mosquitoes from spoiling the mood. Also, be sure to keep your cooler locked in your vehicle overnight to make sure your food and other staples aren’t raided or ruined by overnight bandits like raccoons — and consider bringing along fabric softening sheets. They repel animals and keep your tent smelling fresh!

Oh, and if you’d rather have your glampsite set up for you, consider these awesome glamping spots:

• 8 Great U.S. Glamping Spots On Any Budget
• 7 Fantastic Stays In Europe That Put You In Touch With Nature
• 9 Incredible Glamping Destinations In Upstate New York

Planning a safari conjures up images of stunning landscapes, spectacular animals, and luxurious lodgings set amidst pristine landscapes. Alas, it also conjures up some very expensive price tags. This was the exact dilemma I faced while planning my trip to Botswana. Faced with a seemingly impossible dilemma, I dived into research and discovered camping safaris.

Truthfully, I’m a lukewarm camper at best. Sure, I put on a brave front each year when I join family and friends on our annual outdoor adventures. But I always feel out of my element (and I miss my bathtub). Still, there was no denying that a Botswana camping safari in Chobe National Park was downright affordable compared to the luxury lodges. As such, with a few reservations but with a lot of motivation, I committed to what would be one of the most memorable (and occasionally challenging) trips of my life.

If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would. But I wish someone would have told me these things before I went.

1. You Don’t Need Camping Gear. At Least, Not Much

Most camping safari outfitters include tents, camping chairs, all food and cooking supplies, and even mattress pads. You have the option of renting a sleeping bag, but I took my own — and I’m glad I did. I was just more comfortable having something that was never used by anyone else. I bought a very small, very lightweight sleeping bag for about $30 back home. It only took up a small corner of my bag. At the end of my trip, I asked my guides if I could give it to them and have them donate it to someone in need, and they were thrilled to do so.

2. Relax. You Will See Animals

Luxury lodges have their own airstrips but camping safaris have a whole lot of dusty driving and not much in the way of wildlife before you reach your initial destination. Whatever you do, don’t think of this as wasted time. Take the time to get to know your guides and pepper them with questions about the plants, flowers, trees, and birds. Their knowledge is extraordinary, and they’ll likely have field guides you can borrow to read up on all that you’re seeing.

Before you know it, you’ll be seeing animals. Lots of animals.

3. Don’t Get Too Hung Up On The Big Five

The lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros make up the “Big Five” — the ultimate safari bucket list. And while it’s fun to have a list, some folks take it a bit too far. I’ve seen guests who considered their adventure a failure because they didn’t see all Big Five on the trip. Your chances of seeing the Big Five (or not) on a camping safari are the same as any other kind of trip.

Speaking of the Big Five … in all my years of travel, I’ve never seen a leopard. But at least one leopard has seen me, and it’s all thanks to camping. Urgent bathroom needs convinced me to sneak out of my tent one night — just for a minute! — to quickly pee. The next morning, our guide pointed out the fresh, feathery remains of guinea fowl and reported that a leopard had spent the night just steps from our tent, enjoying his snack. After that report, I learned to hold it!

4. Camping Means Close-Ups

While not every safari participant has the opportunity to moon a leopard, there’s no denying that this way of travel allows you to get up close and personal with the wildlife. On one memorable occasion, we awoke to see a firm path of deep, intimidating lion footprints — the pathmaker had meandered directly through our site just hours earlier. On another occasion, a hyena lay on its belly and watched us, from a safe distance, as we finished our evening meal. Birds loved visiting us as we set up camp. And because we stayed in the heart of Chobe National Park, the minute we got in the jeep, we saw big animals.

5. Early To Bed, Early To Rise

The best safari experiences start early in the morning as the animals are enjoying the cool dawn temperatures. A camping safari is no exception. You’ll be awake before there’s light in the sky. However, unlike safaris that are based at a lodge, you won’t be coming back home for a quick nap after your first game drive of the day. Every day means packing up camp just as light is beginning to break. Typically, you go to bed in the early evening after the dishes are done.

If you’re not used to a 5 a.m. wake-up call or an 8 p.m. bedtime, a camping safari is a big adjustment. If I had to do it all over again, I would have gradually adjusted my sleep schedule a few days before my departure so my body would be used to the schedule.

6. Camping Food Is Impressive

If you think camping cuisine means beans and wieners, you’re going to be mightily impressed on a camping safari. We enjoyed fresh bread every morning, baked in the embers of last night’s fire. Dinners included chicken curry, stir fry with noodles, and a South African-style braai feast of sausages, steak, and more. We enjoyed desserts and sophisticated salads like beet and feta and, overall, I was thrilled with the food and the portions.

7. The Coffee Is Not

My only food-related complaints applied to coffee and tea. The instant coffee available at breakfast and break time left much to be desired. I suddenly realized just what a coffee snob I am! I had some coffeeshop brand instant coffee and latte mix with me, and it offered a welcomed change. Tea drinkers will want to note that just one kind of black tea is usually available. If you love tea, a box of assorted flavors would be a welcome treat for the entire group.

8. Your Camping Chores Are Actually Pretty Easy

Some camping safaris offer deluxe tents (which are set up for you as you’re enjoying an evening game ride), spacious outdoor showers, and some extra comforts. But the most hands-on and affordable experience is a participatory camping safari. “Participatory” is just a fancy way of saying you’ll be helping out with the chores. Turns out, they’re pretty easy. You’ll assist as the guides set up your tents, you’ll help unload folding chairs and tables from the truck, and you’ll lend a helping hand when the canvas frames of the shower and toilet are being installed. You truly need no camping skills, just a willingness to help out.

9. Think Twice About Your Safari Wardrobe

You’ll dress much differently for a camping safari than you would a lodge trip. Cool, casual clothing is paramount for your comfort. I’m glad I brought thin, loose, comfortable trousers made from quick-dry material. I even slept in them some nights! I was especially thrilled with my choice when it came to the awkward climb in and out of the safari vehicle. I was equally happy that I brought along a classic Tilley hat, a lightweight long-sleeved shirt (for layering against the early morning chill), and a somewhat stereotypical “safari” shirt. While I never put the endless pockets to use, it was incredibly lightweight and dried in an instant.

Far less comfortable were the athletic-style tops that promised to wick away moisture and keep me cooler than a regular cotton shirt. They just clung to my body and didn’t allow for any fresh-air circulation. All. Day. Long. If I could do it all over again, I’d swap them out for extra safari shirts and regular everyday t-shirts.

10. Yes, There’s Laundry

Most camping safari programs include one night at a commercial campground about two-thirds of the way into your trip. Their amenities typically include a bar, decent showers, and the chance to get your laundry done. Best money I’ve ever spent!

11. Camping Showers Are Awesome (And A Bit Awkward)

I’m not sure a shower has ever felt so refreshing as the one I enjoyed after two days of safari adventures. Thanks to my clingy wardrobe of athletic fabrics, I was overheated, horribly sweaty, and dust clung to me like that was its job. Our camp shower consisted of a simple four-sided canvas shelter with a flap of fabric for a door. A perforated rubber mat was comfortable underfoot and ensured you didn’t stand in the mud. A folding chair just outside the fabric flap was convenient for storing towels and supplies, while a cone-shaped bucket with a showerhead nozzle hung from the tree overhead and provided a surprisingly strong stream of water. A quick scrub never felt so good! But wriggling in and out of my vexing wardrobe was an exercise in frustration! Yet another reason to bring a few things that are loose and breezy.

Pro Tips: When To Visit And Additional Safari Advice

Chobe National Park is gorgeous all year round but would-be visitors should note that the dry season typically runs from April to October and the rainy season goes from November through March. Game viewing is considered best between late May and November, but in April and early May, the lush grass is thick and long after months of ample water. As such, animals have superb camouflage and game viewing is more challenging.

For more safari inspiration, consider:

• 7 Fantastic Animals To See On Safari And The Best Places To Find Them
• 10 Best Safari Parks To Visit In Africa
• The Ultimate Guide To Planning Your First African Safari

Spring is not too far away. The cool, crisp breezes of winter will soon give way to hot, humid summers in Alabama, but before the mosquitoes and yellow flies take wing, you still have plenty of time to do a little tent camping.

Alabama has an extraordinary number of excellent tent camping sites, ranging from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers locations to state parks and everything in between, with just as many adventures as there are sites.

From the exciting adventure of camping in what is known as America’s Amazon — the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta — to mountain vistas from the top of the state’s tallest, Cheaha Mountain, these campsites are sure to provide you with plenty of splendid nights under the stars. So let’s pack the tent into the car and go tent camping in Alabama.

1. Cheaha State Park, Delta

Located in the heart of the Talladega National Forest is the state’s tallest mountain, the 2,411-foot-tall Cheaha Mountain. And situated on the top of the mountain is Cheaha State Park, which makes it the perfect base camp for your hiking and mountain biking adventures.

The park itself features five mountain bike trails and six hiking trails, including Pulpit Rock and the Doug Ghee Boardwalk, which lead you to spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. And that doesn’t include the many trails located in the national forest itself with even more spectacular views and plenty of waterfalls to explore.

Cheaha is located in Delta on Alabama Highway 281. The park’s campgrounds have recently been renovated and are nestled away in the hardwood forest — the Upper and Lower Campgrounds.

In all, the two sites have 77 tent pads (four of which are ADA accessible) with water and electricity. The bathhouses are clean, and you will appreciate that they are heated if you visit in winter.

For something more rugged, the park has 28 primitive campsites with basic amenities — fire rings, tent pads, and community water spigots.

Pro Tip

The best time to camp at Cheaha State Park is in the fall when the mountains come alive with fiery fall colors. But reserve your spot early by visiting the Alabama State Park online reservation system. Fall is the busiest time of year at the park, not only because of the fall colors, but also the crowds that flock to the nearby Talladega 500 stock car race.

2. Bartram Canoe Trail, Stockton

It’s known as America’s Amazon: the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. The second-largest river delta in the country is veined with dark and mysterious bayous lined with palmetto and Spanish moss-draped trees. Alligators glide silently just below the water’s surface, and bald eagles soar above.

The Bartram Canoe Trail is located on the Gulf Coast in Baldwin County and has several different locations for you to put in your kayak. The trail was established by the Alabama State Lands Division and features six overnight kayak trips down the blazed waterways for you to experience this wilderness first-hand. You can pitch your tent on one of two sandbars, four floating platforms, or four elevated shelters. The sandbars are on a first-come, first-served basis while the platforms and shelters must be reserved by contacting the 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center in Spanish Fort.

Pro Tips

There are no amenities at these campsites. It is pure roughing it in a unique wilderness environment.

Only experienced paddlers should float the delta. Better yet, go with an experienced paddler or guide.

3. Gulf State Park, Gulf Shores

The ultimate resort campground in Alabama is Gulf State Park. Located only a stone’s throw from the beautiful Gulf beaches, the park boasts 496 improved campsites and immaculate bathhouses. And even if you pitch your tent in one of the 11 primitive campsites, you’re not really roughing, with swimming pools, a laundromat, tennis courts, and a nature center that holds weekly outdoor-related events and presentations.

For something different, the park has the Outpost — two safari-style tents located 1.8 miles from the main campground. The only way you can reach it is by packing along everything you need to spend the night and hiking or biking to them. The Outpost does have showers, a bathroom, Adirondack chairs, and fire rings stocked with firewood.

The park also boasts 28 miles of hiking and biking trails and is centrally located to the Alabama Gulf Coast’s nationally famous events and venues, like the Hangout Music Fest, the National Shrimp Festival, and the Wharf at Orange Beach.

Pro Tip

If you plan on camping at Gulf State Park, make your reservations early, sometimes a year in advance. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are two of the most popular tourist destinations on the Gulf Coast, and getting a spot at the last minute is virtually impossible.

4. Cathedral Caverns, Woodville

Walking into the 126-foot-wide, 26-foot-tall opening of Cathedral Caverns in Woodville is impressive enough on its own, but once inside, you will be in awe at the cathedral-like appearance — towering stalagmites, “frozen waterfalls,” a stalagmite forest. It is an incredible scene that will make you want to linger a few days to take it all in.

You have a few options for camping at Cathedral Caverns State Park. The park has only 11 improved sites with water and electricity. Five of the sites are basically RV pull-throughs, so the best for tent camping are sites 6 to 11. There is also drive-up primitive camping.

The campsites are a bit crowded together, but because of the limited number, you are virtually guaranteed a pleasant camping experience. The best part of camping at Cathedral Caverns (besides the cavern itself) is the light show provided by the twinkling stars overhead as you bed down for the night.

Pro Tips

Ninety-minute cave tours are given daily, weather permitting. Reservations are required, and while there isn’t a fee to enter the park, there is a fee for the tour. Reservations must be made the same day you plan on taking the tour.

Reservations are not required for a site, but I suggest that you contact the park to check on availability just in case.

5. Dismals Canyon, Phil Campbell

Located in Phil Campbell, Alabama, the 85-acre, privately owned Dismals Canyon offers up some truly unique natural wonders and history, and an equally unique camping experience.

Camping at the Dismals is primitive only, so bring what you need. On site, you’ll find a well-stocked camp store and a restaurant that serves up some great burgers and shakes, so it’s not too primitive.

There are 18 sites in all, limited in number to protect nature. The campsites are well-spaced to give you plenty of room and privacy. There is one main clean bathhouse with nice, hot showers. The campsites are considered “backcountry,” which means you carry your gear in, but it is only a short walk from your car. Three of the sites are outstanding. More on them in the Pro Tips.

So, what’s the draw? Why should you spend the night at Dismals Canyon? The canyon itself. There is a 1.5-mile trail that leads you alongside a sparkling creek, past waterfalls and incredible tall bluffs, through narrow passageways, and across a rope bridge. And at night, grab your flashlight and join the guided tour of the canyon to see the light show put on by the Dismalites, a larva that clings to the canyon walls and glows with a bluish light. It’s an incredible show with hundreds of them lining the path.

Pro Tips

Three of the campsites are well worth making a reservation for, but make them early! They are popular. The Creek Campsite is located right on the banks of Dismals Creek for a soothing night’s sleep with the sounds of the creek. Pitch your tent under a small rock shelter at the Sleeping Water site, which also has its own nearby (seasonal) waterfall. And the most popular is the Caveman site, where you pitch your tent underneath a 30-foot-tall rock shelter. Make your reservations by calling (205) 993-4559.

6. DeSoto State Park, Mentone

DeSoto State Park in Mentone is another great base camp for exploring the natural wonders of Alabama. Within the park boundaries, there are many waterfalls, including the incredible, thundering DeSoto Falls, the raging waters of the West Fork of the Little River. Only a short drive away is the deepest canyon east of the Mississippi, Little River Canyon and Falls.

The best time of year to camp at DeSoto is in fall, when the leaves burst with color, but even in the dead of winter with a light dusting of snow, it is a beautiful camping location.

The campsites are well spaced for privacy, and the thick canopy of the trees provides excellent shade in the heat of summer. Two clean comfort stations with hot showers, restrooms, and laundry serve the 94 improved campsites that are situated in two loops.

Pro Tip

The best sites are the odd-numbered ones in the Lower Loop from number 59 to 71, and sites 16, 17, 19, 22, 23, 25, 27, and 29 in the Upper Loop. These sites are set up against the forest with no other sites behind you.

7. Deerlick Creek Campground, Tuscaloosa

Even though it is one of the most popular campgrounds in the Tuscaloosa area, the two words most often used to describe the Deerlick Creek Campground are quiet and peaceful.

The campground is located on the banks of Holt Lake and is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Each one of the 40 improved campsites is nestled within a beautiful oak, beech, and pine forest. Even the six primitive campsites are phenomenal. They are located on a bluff overlooking the lake.

With a clean central bathhouse and laundry, there is plenty to do at Deerlick — excellent bass and crappie fishing, swimming, short hiking trails, and a road biking trail. But the big draw is the quiet, relaxing atmosphere.

You would think that the best sites are located directly on the lake, but actually, they are just above the lake on bluffs: sites 5 through 9, 13 through 18, and 34 through 39.

Make your reservations through the Recreation.gov website.

Most of the year, the campground is quiet, but during college football season, it’s hopping when the Alabama Crimson Tide has a home game. The campground is closed from November through February.

8. Monte Sano State Park, Huntsville

Monte Sano is Spanish for “mountain of health.” It was believed that the cool, crisp air atop the mountain of the same name could cure all that ailed you, including yellow fever. Whether it does or not is up for debate, but camping at Monte Sano State Park in Huntsville is definitely good for the soul.

The 59 improved and 21 primitive campsites have enough space between them for privacy and a good canopy for shade in summer.

What makes Monte Sano so special? First, there is its rustic charm, with many remnants of hand-laid stone buildings and structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. There are also 22 miles of hiking and biking trails ranging from easy walks in the woods to challenging and difficult climbs up rocky paths.

Monte Sano is also the perfect base camp to explore the outdoor activities that Huntsville has to offer, as well as the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. And speaking of space, a night of camping is highlighted by taking in a planetarium show at the Wehrer von Braun Planetarium, which is located right next to the campground.

The planetarium is operated by the Von Braun Astronomical Society, which opens the doors to the public every Saturday night for the show and many times an informative speaker, including astronomers, scientists, and sometimes astronauts. After the show, weather permitting, the public can look through their telescopes to view the night sky. Visit the society’s website for the latest schedule and fees.

Related Articles:

• 9 Beautiful Hikes In Alabama
• 7 Best Wildflower Hikes In Alabama
• The Best Stops On A Weird And Wacky Alabama Road Trip

Camping sure has come a long way. I remember pitching an old Baker tent that still smelled like it did during World War II, 50-years-later. That wasn’t very glamorous. Nowadays, the term “glamping” is all the rage. It began as souped-up tent camping where nature and luxury met to welcome new campers who wanted the outdoor experience but without sacrificing comfort. The definition continues to evolve.

Glamping company AutoCamp first came on the scene in 2019, taking luxury camping to a new level. They tempt travelers with luxury 31-foot-long Airstream trailers featuring sleek designs, spa-inspired bathrooms, plush linens atop queen-size beds, convertible sofas, private decks, and fire pits.

“Rooted in the timeless American tradition of hitting the road, our properties take everything that’s great about sleeping in wilderness and make it even better with impeccable design,” said CEO and Founder Neil Dipaola.

AutoCamp debuted with three popular vacation locations: Yosemite National Park, Cape Cod, and The Russian River. Now they are poised to expand to even more heavenly locations across the country. A new glamping site just outside of Joshua Tree National Park will be ready this fall, and sites in The Catskills and Utah’s Zion National Park are expected in 2022.

“Our primary focus is helping guests safely and effortlessly immerse themselves into the beautiful American landscapes our brand is fortunate to call home,” says Dipaola. “This expansion continues to fulfill our mission that is centered around creating a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.”

The Joshua Tree site features 47 Airstreams, four Accessible Suites, and four X Suites — all equipped with air conditioning and heat for all-season weather, as well as unique outdoor showers available in some premium units. Guests will also enjoy an outdoor bar, a hybrid hot tub and plunge pool, and a clubhouse with a general store. From base camp, travelers will have easy access to all that Joshua Tree National Park has to offer.

Plans for the Zion property currently call for a total of 81 units, with 72 Airstreams, 10 tents, five accessible suites, and four X Suites, while the planned site in the Catskills will house 95 units with 65 Airstreams, 10 tents, 10 cabins, five accessible suites, and five X Suites.

Like Joshua Tree, both properties feature a locally designed food and beverage program and an on-site seasonal hot tub or plunge pool.

Reservations for the open sites, as well as pre-registration for the upcoming properties, can be made on the company’s website. For more on camping, glamping, national parks, and the Catskills, consider

• All our camping content here
• All our glamping content here
• 7 Incredible Hidden Locations In National Parks And Forests
• The Top 5 National Parks You Must Visit, According To RVers
• 10 Fantastic Hikes In The Catskills

The open road beckons with the promise of an exciting adventure. It’s time to get out and explore America. Road tripping is the new vacation craze. Camper rentals are up, families are spending time together outdoors, and the options for parking your RV for free are extensive.

Free camping, also known as dispersed camping, boondocking, going off the grid, and dry-docking are essentially parking your self-contained, self-sufficient camper or tent in that perfect, free camping spot. With the growing interest in hitting the road, options for free camping are gaining traction across the country. With a few simple tools and some planning, your overnight accommodations can be inexpensive and many times free.

Dispersed camping or boondocking is camping on public lands where there is not a developed campground or recreation facility closeby. Typically there are little or no services provided. You are dry camping, self-reliant on your generator, your own water supply, and everything you need to survive.

We spoke with camping experts Brandi and Sean Green from Campers and Campfires to get their take on free camping in the U.S. The Greens have been educating newbie campers and camping enthusiasts for over five years. Their extensive camping knowledge is a great source of information. Brandi noted, “We love traveling and want people to enjoy camping.”

If you want to learn more about dispersed camping, my article Dispersed Camping: What It Is and Why You Should Try It will have you checking your calendar to see when you can get out and explore this great country and camp for free.

1. Bureau Of Land Management

The U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages 245 million acres of U.S. land, including forests, mountains, rangelands, arctic tundra, and deserts. More prominent in western states, BLM is the lead agency of public lands and resource management.

The BLM website offers a Visit Us search page that allows you to select a location and keyword activity. This planning tool will guide you through the process of finding a potential dispersed camping site. Many sites are not marked and are along secondary roads, so packing a good map to backup your potentially spotty GPS is a good idea.

If you dream of sleeping under the stars in your own secluded site, dispersed camping on BLM land is something you need to try.

2. National Forest Service

The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Forest Service oversees our National Forests and Grasslands for your recreation pleasure. Their purview includes our public forests, trails, recreation sites, wilderness areas, and scenic rivers.

The U.S. National Forest Service offers a Visit Destinations search page that allows you to search dispersed camping sites, trails, and other available activities.

The National Forest Service brings the lyrics “this land is your land, this land is my land” to the forefront of your camping experience.

3. National And State Parks

The National Parks Service has an interactive camping map that highlights Camping Opportunities across the country. Each map point connects to an appropriate local park website for all the up-to-the-minute details for that particular park.

Many state parks offer beautiful campsites on or near protected outdoor recreation areas, too. Each state has its own regulations and camping registration requirements that can easily be found with a web search.

4. Army Corps Of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers oversees outdoor recreation projects across 43 states. Camping and other opportunities can be sourced by state on their status map.

Brandi instructed, “National and state parks along with the Army Corps of Engineers sites are the best value in the Southeast because they do not offer full hook-ups.” Of course, this means you might not have sewer or cable services at your campsite.

5. Boondockers Welcome

If going totally off the grid seems a little daunting, there are sharing groups where you can park your self-contained RV on a member’s property as their guest. Boondockers Welcome requires a minimal annual fee. This allows you to request a stay on a member’s property for a predetermined number of nights.

Sean likes the idea of these host sharing sites for campers looking to venture away from traditional campgrounds. “The Boondockers Welcome program is a space sharing community. It is a network of wineries, golf courses, and yard sharing. Some participants offer hookups beyond the basic amenities.”

Their interactive search map allows you to explore hosts by area and access to reviews by guests. Some properties are as simple as an overnight spot in the owners’ driveway; others have beautiful lakefront vistas. The possibilities are wide open.

6. Harvest Hosts

Another site sharing group is Harvest Hosts. Their niche stays are focused on wineries, breweries, golf courses, farms, and attractions for self-contained RVers. Harvest Hosts has a 24-hour stay policy and your small annual membership fee covers your stays for the year. They offer two membership plans: the Harvest Hosts Classic, which covers all stays excluding golf courses. The second is the Harvest Hosts + Golf, which is a 50 percent increase but still a great value, particularly if you are a golfer.

Harvest Hosts covers the U.S. and Canada, offering stays at over 750 wineries and breweries, over 370 golf courses, and over 750 other various attractions. Imagine embarking on a cross-country trip that parks you onsite for a round of golf one day and a vineyard view with a wine tasting the next. It takes dry camping to an entirely different level.

7. Blacktop Boondocking

Not at all glamorous, but if you are in a pinch, blacktop boondocking can be a free and easy way to park for the night. Many big box stores like Walmart, Bass Pro Shop, Cabela’s, et cetera allow guests to dry dock overnight in their parking lot. Tents are generally prohibited as are awnings, firepits, lawn chairs, etc. This is a place to get some rest, not set up camp, and the store managers are anticipating you stocking up on provisions at their store.

It is important to note, not all stores welcome overnight guests. RVers are required to speak with the store manager for permission to stay — or risk dealing with a tow truck driver.

8. Kampgrounds Of America

One of the oldest and most trusted camping resources is Kampgrounds Of America (KOA). This is not a free camping program, but it is the premier resource for camping research. Every form of camping, from glamping to tenting, can be found on their extensive campground list. The KOA franchise offers camping options across the U.S. and Canada.

Brandi remarked, “KOA offers online memberships. They tend to be more expensive, but they are about as nice as you will get on the road.”

9. Planning Is Key

Planning your route, desired attractions, daily driving time, and overnight accommodations is key to a successful trip. Many free and nearly free camping opportunities require some advanced planning and reservations.

The Greens have taken several long-haul trips including a 52-day round trip from Georgia to California and a 36-day trip through Canada. Sean said, “We use paper and pencil when we plan. We decide how many miles to drive in a day and what we want to see.” Brandi cautioned, “Plan every third day off and do nothing. It is mentally draining when full-force vacationing or traveling on the road every day.”

Allstays is a camper and trucker research tool that collects reviews and tips on where to stay. The application is sortable by state and town, offering reviews and information about campgrounds, public lands, state parks, and big box stores. There is a modest subscription fee, but the wealth of information available is a good road trip resource.

When you are ready to get out on the road and experience amazing adventures, finding free camping spots requires a small amount of planning. The reward is a unique and fascinating travel experience.

Brandi summed it up best: “I have been camping for over 40 years. I love camping so much I wanted to share the experience with my husband and children. Camping is the best experience you can possibly give them while maximizing your budget.”

Final Tip

If you are planning to rent an RV for a long haul, rent one for a test run first. Driving an RV is a little different than a van. Practicing self-contained dry docking can take time to perfect. You don’t want to be caught unprepared. For more useful tips, consider:

• Boondocking Safety: 11 Tips You Need To Know To Stay Safe In Your RV
• Things To Know Before Boondocking For The First Time
• 8 Essential Tips For First-Time RVers
• 21 Things You Need To Know Before Renting Your First RV
• The Best Destinations To Experience In An RV This Summer
• RV Boondocking: Why We Love It And What You Need To Know
• Dispersed Camping: What It Is, And Why You Should Try It

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation’s mission is to get people outside to enjoy the natural beauty and resources that the state is so known for. Their state parks system began in 1916 with the preservation of the summit of Mount Mitchell; it was the first state park in the Southeast and among the first in the nation. There are now 41 North Carolina state parks throughout three different regions: the Coastal Plain, the Piedmont, and the Appalachian Mountains.

The parks are diverse in nature, but each one is naturally wonderful and scenic. Across the state, you’ll find beaches, lakes, swamps, sand dunes, rock formations, rivers, streams, and waterfalls.

North Carolina’s parks offer a host of activities for the outdoor enthusiast, including hiking, camping, boating, fishing, nature study, and environmental education. Each park offers free interpretive programs by rangers on a regular basis.

It doesn’t matter if you hike, walk, bike, swim, or ride. There’s something out there for you to enjoy and experience. Here are my picks for some of the most fabulous state parks in the North Carolina Piedmont region.

1. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, Henderson

Kerr Lake is located in central North Carolina, right on the Virginia border. It consists of seven individual parks that surround the 50,000-acre, man-made lake. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area is all about the water, and there’s a lot of it.

Boating of all kinds is enjoyed year-round. Prevailing winds offer ideal conditions for sailing enthusiasts. Along with two private marinas to serve boaters, each recreation area around the lake has one or more public boat launching ramps.

Kerr Lake is one of the best fishing lakes in the eastern United States. Fish from a boat, the shoreline, or from one of two fishing piers. An extensive boat ramp facility is suitable for fishing tournaments.

Camping at Kerr Lake is a fantastic experience. There are more than 600 campsites scattered throughout the park’s 3,376 acres of wooded shoreline. Many campsites are right on the water’s edge. Each area has unique amenities, including hook-ups, water, showers, restrooms, dump stations, and accessibility. Be sure to check the campground maps for all information.

Note: Kerr Lake is one of three North Carolina recreation areas that charge for entry in the summer months.

2. Medoc Mountain State Park, Hollister

At Medoc Mountain State Park there are no scenic panoramas, no distant views of majestic snow-covered peaks. As a matter of fact, there isn’t even a mountain. The tallest “peak” is only 325 feet above sea level — all that’s left of a 350-million-year-old majestic mountain range. What this park does have is a serene environment, an intimate beauty. Tall trees, wide-open grassy meadows, and a lazy, winding creek make up the bulk of the park.

Medoc Mountain State Park is 35 miles northwest of the city of Rocky Mount. If you visit, keep a lookout — “they” say the park is home to Bigfoot.

The park’s 2.5-mile creek is considered to be one of the cleanest streams in the region. Anglers and paddlers are drawn to it for that reason. Some of the park’s ten miles of hiking trails wander along the creek while others climb several hundred feet to the mountaintop.

There are roughly ten miles of bridle trails for equestrians. The 34-site campground can accommodate RVs as well as tents and trailers. Unlike other parks, Medoc Mountain has primitive campsites in the bridle trail area. Supplies must be brought in on horseback. One site is accessible.

3. William B. Umstead State Park, Raleigh

Located in Wake County 10 miles northwest of downtown Raleigh, William B. Umstead State Park is a close-by and cherished retreat from bustling urban life. The park features an extensive network of hiking, biking, and bridle trails, as well as three man-made lakes that are perfect for fishing.

The park’s trailheads can be accessed from both Interstate 40 and U.S. 70. William B. Umstead State Park is one of the few state parks offering trails for bicycling. Both park entrances offer picnic shelters, water, and restrooms.

The northernmost entrance offers camping areas. Group camps, primitive cabins, and the historic Maple Hill Lodge let visitors experience a rustic overnight experience without typical modern camping amenities. Tent camping is available April through October.

The largest lake, Big Lake, offers seasonal canoe and rowboat rentals. Fishing is welcome at all three lakes and connecting tributaries. Anglers will enjoy catching bass, bluegill, and crappie.

4. Falls Lake State Recreation Area, Wake Forest

Falls Lake State Recreation Area, conveniently located between Durham and Wake Forest, is made up of a 12,000-acre reservoir with seven recreation areas around its shoreline. Backpacking, biking, boating, fishing, picnicking, and camping are all popular activities here.

The Falls Lake Trail follows the entire south shore of the lake, traveling over 50 miles. A portion of the North Carolina Mountains-to-Sea State Trail, the trail connects many recreational areas and provides camping stops for backpackers.

There are more than 300 campsites within four access areas. There are five swim beaches in the recreation area. Three have nearby restrooms and changing facilities.

Persons with disabilities will find access to a wide range of recreational opportunities at Falls Lake. Parking lots and restrooms are accessible, as well as a fishing pier, picnic shelters, swimming beaches, and campsites. Park staff can guide you to facilities best suited to your needs.

Note: Falls Lake also charges entry in the summer months.

5. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, Apex

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a large area and has a ton of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. There are nine access areas scattered around the shoreline of the 14,000-acre reservoir. The beautiful lake, just 30 miles west of downtown Raleigh, is one of the largest summertime homes of our national bird, the bald eagle.

Boating of all kinds is very popular on Jordan Lake. Each access area has boat launching ramps. The most popular area for sailing is Vista Point, while windsurfers enjoy Ebenezer Church. The nearby, privately-owned Crosswinds Boating Center rents kayaks and pontoon boats (seasonal).

The recreation area boasts more than 1,000 campsites and seven swimming beaches. Campsites range from RV sites with hookups to primitive tent camping. All campgrounds have hiking trails (14 miles total) ranging in length and available for campers only.

Persons with disabilities will find access to a wide range of recreational facilities, including accessible picnic shelters, swim beaches, campsites, and courtesy docks. Restrooms are accessible as well.

Note: Jordan Lake charges for entry in the summer months.

6. Raven Rock State Park, Lillington

Raven Rock State Park is a geological goldmine. It sits on the “fall zone,” an area where the hard rocks of the foothills give way to softer rocks and sediments of the coastal plains. Through the ages — over 4 million years — flowing waters and swirling winds gradually eroded the land, carving and sculpting Raven Rock. This immense crystalline structure rises 150 feet and stretches for more than a mile along the Cape Fear River.

Near Raleigh (40 miles southwest), Raven Rock’s diverse topography along the Cape Fear River makes it a frequent hiking destination for visitors. With 26 miles of trails, hikers can experience the river, falls, rapids, mountain thickets, various creeks, and the massive rock itself.

The camping experience at Raven Rock is exceptional. There are family campsites for RVs, tents, and trailers, plus six rustic camper cabins. For the more adventurous camper, the park offers primitive camping areas for backpackers and paddlers. Supplies must be carried in, but the solitude is worth the effort.

The equestrian area on the river’s north bank offers eight miles of bridle trails. There are over six miles of biking trails throughout the park. Fishing and picnicking round out the outdoor activities offered.

7. Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, Southern Pines

Established in 1963, Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve is very important in the field of ecology. This area, 35 miles northwest of Fayetteville, was once part of an expansive longleaf pine forest that covered millions of acres in the southeastern U.S. The oldest known living longleaf pine in the world resides here, dating back to 1548.

A network of short, easy trails provides for contemplative walks in an outdoor natural classroom. The forest is a natural theater for birding and viewing wildflowers and wildlife. The towering pines and expanses of wiregrass are home to over 160 species of birds, including the rare red-cockaded woodpecker and more than 500 unique plant species.

Picnicking and restrooms are available near the visitor center which is accessible.

Pro Tips

No admission fees are charged at the North Carolina state parks (with exception of the three recreation areas noted above). Fees for services such as camping, picnic shelter reservations, and equipment rentals are kept as reasonable as possible and may vary from park to park.

The North Carolina state parks system offers an excellent, user-friendly website listing all 41 state parks. All the information needed to plan your visit to any park is available on these pages including fees, hours of operation, maps, fact sheets, amenities, FAQs, accessibility, and reservation information. Be sure to check up-to-the-minute information that might affect your visit. 

Don’t miss out on these other fantastic state parks in North Carolina’s mountains as well as these great state parks along North Carolina’s coast!

While you’re outdoors in the Tar Heel State:

• 10 Stunning Hikes In North Carolina
• The Best Apple Orchards From Asheville To Charlotte, North Carolina
• 8 Incredible Experiences In Beautiful Lake Norman State Park

Estes Park, Colorado, is the home base of my favorite national park, Rocky Mountain National Park. Over the years, we have made many road trips from Iowa towing an RV to Estes Park. The majestic views are your reward for the long drive. Your final destination, Estes Park, is a fantastic base camp for all visitors in northern Colorado. The mountain views, fresh air, and outdoor experiences are what keep us coming back. The ability to step out of your camper or motorhome into the national park is an incredible feeling. Here are some things to do and places to stay while exploring Estes Park.

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is the busiest area in Rocky Mountain National Park. If you drive your RV on Bear Lake Road, you must watch for the signs that say RV Parking. This parking area is in the shuttle bus stop that connects all visitors to Estes Park and areas within the national park. The Bear Lake parking area fills early in the day during the summer season. If you do drive to the parking area with a car, arrive by 8 a.m. Glacier Basin Campground is close to this park’s popular spot, with a free shuttle bus service throughout the area. Several popular hikes begin at Bear Lake, including Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Odessa Lake, Fern Lake, Flat Top Mountain, and Bear Lake.

Bear Lake is a level hiking trail for hikers of all skill levels. It’s a beautiful hike that comes in a little under a mile. On my first visit to this lake, 30 years ago, I saw the first moose that I had ever seen in a national park. Make Bear Lake your main trailhead and begin your day of fun from Bear Lake. The views are incredible everywhere you look. Look up, down, and around. There’s truly something beautiful around every corner. After a fun day exploring, crawl into your bed in your RV and get ready to enjoy the next day. There’s nothing like spending a full day in the mountains and crawling into your cozy bed.

Hike In Rocky Mountain National Park

Your RV is the perfect place to end an epic day of hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. There are many hiking trails for the novice, intermediate, and experienced hiker. The best tip that I can give you is to start your hike as early in the morning as possible. By starting early in the day, you will have a better chance at ending your hike before the typical afternoon thundershower pops up. You will want to have a good pair of hiking shoes, rain gear, backpack, snacks, and water along for your hike. It’s also a good idea to have some gloves and a winter hat along. My favorite hike is the Bear Lake to Fern Lake Trailhead, by way of Odessa Lake.

When you are up in the higher elevations, it can be quite chilly early in the day. The free shuttle bus can transport you to and from the trailheads. Be sure to inquire with the bus driver as to when the last bus of the day departs. Enjoy a hot shower in your RV, and then dress in layers to hang out by your end-of-the-day campfire. Once you experience a full day of hiking in the national park, you will enjoy relaxing in your RV, and you will remain connected with the mountains throughout your stay in the campground.

Wildlife Viewing

The best reason to drive an RV to Estes Park is your ability to have a cozy place to sit while you wait and watch the wildlife. Sheep Lakes is 1/8 miles west of the Fall River Entrance Station. There is ample parking for RV units in this lot. The sheep show up on their schedule, not ours. It’s always interesting sitting in this viewing area, as many people have never seen them. Once a sheep starts coming down the side of the mountain, all of the binoculars are seen turning towards the hill. Volunteers work out of the Sheep Lakes Information Station to answer your questions and help herd the sheep safely across the road. Elk are everywhere, too. In town, out of town, in the national park, in the dog park, and even in the crosswalks.

Moraine Park Basin offers a road that is driveable part of the way with your RV. You can park along the road near the campground and sit and watch the elk. The best tip I can give you is to visit the Moraine Park Museum and park your RV in the parking lot. You can then walk across the road to view the elk in Moraine Park Basin. Dress in layers and have your binoculars on hand at all times. The wildlife viewing is fun and incredible in the Estes Park area.

Editor’s Note: We recommend reading up on these tips for safely viewing wildlife in national parks before you hit the road.

Drive Trail Ridge Road

Trail Ridge Road is the road that connects Estes Park to Grand Lake, the west side of the national park. It is the highest paved road in North America, and once you drive on it, you will understand how majestic it is. With numerous peaks over 12,000 feet, traveling through the alpine tundra and forests, you will want to stop several times to take in the views. RVs can travel through the park and drive Trail Ridge Road. The parking areas on this scenic route offer parking for all lengths of RV units. This road is closed during the winter, and it opens in the spring when the snowplows can clear the road. Timbercreek Campground is near Grand Lake on the western side of the park and offers campsites for units up to 30 feet in length.

Editor’s Note: Learn about the best things to do in beautiful Estes Park: where to stay, eat, and play; how to spend a perfect winter day in Estes Park; and all our other Estes Park content here.

Camp In Rocky Mountain National Park

Estes Park is home to the east entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. There are five campgrounds in the national park, and they each offer something different. We have camped at Aspenglen Campground, Glacier Basin Campground, Moraine Park Campground, and Timbercreek Campground. Glacier Basin is our favorite campground, as it offers a view that we have grown to love over the years. Timbercreek and Longs Peak are on a first-come, first-served basis. When you reserve your campsite, it is crucial to know the length of your RV. Longs Peak is a campground for tents only, while Moraine Park Campground can handle RV units that are up to 40 feet. If you want a truly connected experience to nature, staying in a campground should be a high priority. Hotels and motels do not offer the outdoor connections that campgrounds do.

There are no showers in the national park restrooms, but running water and flush toilets are available. There are no electricity and water hookups at the sites. Note that you will also need to pay to enter the national park in addition to your campsite fees. Dump stations are available in season, and firewood and ice are for sale in the campgrounds. Hop on the shuttle bus to transport you around the national park.

Camping is an easy, affordable way to experience Rocky Mountain National Park. Reserve your campsite as soon as possible, as they fill fast during the summer months.

Estes Park KOA

The Estes Park KOA is a full-service campground for RVers. It is five miles from the national park entrance. On many of our RV trips, we have camped in the national park for part of our vacations to Estes Park and stayed at a full-service campground the last few nights. It’s nice to have full hook-ups and hot showers after roughing it for a few nights. This campground is an excellent base camp for exploring the town of Estes Park, where there are many fun shops to explore. This campground is a short 1.5-mile drive to the fun shops and restaurants on Elk Horn Avenue. You can find the Safeway grocery store on your route between downtown and the KOA. Before you return to your campground, you can restock your food supply.

Estes Park is a magical place for you and your RV. There are 11 additional campgrounds and RV parks to choose from in Estes Park, in addition to camping in the national park. Make your campground reservations early so you are assured of having a place to park your unit.

RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, RVshare has the perfect RV for your vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

The Olympic Peninsula is a magical place. The first time I drove there I was stunned by the majestic Olympic mountains, the forests, the rainforests, and the variety of seafood, beaches, and lakes. I can’t imagine what else you could want in one place. The peninsula has one major road, US 101 — the Olympic Highway that runs along the entire perimeter, covering about 350 miles.

You can drive onto the peninsula or take your RV on a ferry and enjoy Puget Sound. I recommend the ferry at Edmonds, which is well north of downtown Seattle. Avoid downtown with an RV. There are tunnels from I-90 leading west into downtown and RVs carrying propane are not permitted. If you enter the peninsula from Tacoma, head north through the Naval submarine base area of Bremerton and cross Hood Canal at Port Gamble to link up to US 101. If you come in from Olympia to the south, stay on US 101 through magnificent forests that hug the shore of Hood Canal. Eventually, you’ll hit the northern edge of the peninsula and turn west.

This peninsula is a place made to experience from an RV. I guarantee that you will enjoy opening up your RV door in the morning and smelling the evergreens as well as marveling at the variety of waterfront campgrounds that will beckon you to the Pacific Ocean.

New to this part of Washington State? Consider my account of my time there: “I Went To The Olympic Peninsula On My Own And It Was Extraordinary.”

Abundance Of Small RV Camping Inside Olympic National Park

Most of the camping inside the park is limited to 21-foot-length campers and tents. There are a few sites for rigs up to 35 feet long in some of the campgrounds. There are hundreds of RV sites in 11 different campgrounds. Three campgrounds take reservations, and the rest are first-come, first-served. Most of the campgrounds have no hookups. Water and dump station availability varies. The campgrounds are available on all sides of the park. There are beachfront, lakefront, and riverfront campgrounds as well as a campground in the rainforest and one in an old-growth forest. If you have a small enough RV, the options are dizzying. There is even a resort with hot springs that accommodates RVs up to 50 feet in length. Prices range from $20 to $28/night with most being $24/night.

If your RV is too big or you can’t snag one of the larger sites, there are a few state parks, commercial parks, and Olympic National Forest sites that can accommodate RVs.

Kalaloch is a stunning place to camp. It is one of the parks that can accommodate a few larger rigs (up to 50 feet). It sits 40 feet above the Pacific Ocean and has stairs to access the beach. Watch the tide tables because you do not want to get caught at high tide when the beach all but disappears and logs are floating in the surf. Make a reservation well in advance. There is no internet here and cell service is minimal. You can access trails in the Hoh rainforest across the road from the campground. The Hoh campground is in the rainforest and has 88 sites with no amenities. However, this campground does have a few longer RV sites for rigs up to 35 feet.

Fairholme is on the west side of Crescent Lake, one of the most scenic ground level places in the park. Unfortunately, this is a 21 foot-and-under park, but there are 88 sites. There are hiking trails of all levels around the lake.

Sol Duc campground has hot springs, and you can hike to Sol Duc Falls. Sol Duc has a few sites that accommodate over 21-foot RVs, but it’s first-come, first-served access to 82 sites.

Experience The Scale Of Olympic National Park (North And West Sides)

Olympic National Park covers the bulk of the peninsula. There are plenty of small towns that sit along the perimeter and hug the coastline, but the ONP is the star. You’ll want to break the park down into the north side, entering from the city of Port Angeles, and the west side, entering near the town of Forks. The mountain range separates the two sides and there is no pass to drive through. You have to go around, but the drive is well worth it.

The north side entrance is in Port Angeles, a city with plenty of amenities and shopping. The park entrance road takes you up into the mountains to Hurricane Ridge, so named because of the wicked winds it faces. On the way up you’ll find a couple of overlooks showcasing the Cascade mountains on the mainland. If you are there on a clear day (so in summer), you will see snow-covered Mount Baker in the far distance.

Editor’s Note: For more Cascades inspiration, consider How To Visit 6 Lovely Volcanoes In The Cascades, including Mount Baker.

Hurricane Ridge is one of the most scenic places you will find in the park that is easily accessible. There is a large visitor center plus parking with space for small campers to park. On one side of the ridge, you will see Mount Olympus and the permanent glaciers surrounding it and the other peaks. It is a breathtaking view. There are picnic tables overlooking the alpine meadow with a clear view of the mountains. On the other side of the parking area is the main ridge. Climb an easy paved trail to the observation point. From there, you can view Victoria Island, Canada, across the Straits of Juan de Fuca and the Salish Sea. You can explore the ridge on numerous short and long trails, some with significant elevation. Some are paved and some are not. Be on the lookout for the Olympic marmot — a small, rodent-like creature that burrows and hibernates in the winter. Rangers lead a walking tour of the meadow to help visitors spot these entertaining creatures. Deer are very tame on the ridge and saunter in and out from the bush. Plan to spend at least a few hours in this very special place.

Crescent Lake is 30 minutes west of Port Angeles on Highway 101. There is a lodge with a restaurant, lakeside picnic tables, and a boat pier. You can take a boat tour of this glacial lake to see it in full. There is easy hiking on this side of the lake, some paved and some not, but all trails are considered accessible. See the old-growth forest, complete with open tree trunks that have lived through fires. From Crescent Lake, you can take a 1-mile hike to Maymere Falls.

On the west side of the park you will find the Hoh rainforest. This is an amazingly lush and jungle-like place. This side of the peninsula gets a lot of rain and is at a relatively low elevation. You can drive to the visitor center and hike some very easy trails (some paved) to experience the rainforest. Try the 1.2-mile trail that takes you through the rainforest to the Hoh River (and is only a 100-foot elevation gain).

Olympic National Park has wilderness hiking and tent camping, though quotas are in place and permits are required. There are dozens of trails on the coast, in the mountains, and in the old-growth forests.

Interesting And Exciting Day Trips

Go for a whale-watching trip in Port Townsend. These trips are mostly two to three hours in length and there is a good chance you will see whales in the wild. Orcas are the most prevalent, but you may see much larger gray whales.

Make a longer trip to the tip of the peninsula and visit Cape Flattery. This is the westernmost point in the lower 48 states and offers amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. This location requires a permit from the local Native American Makah tribe. Unfortunately, the Cape and Neah Bay on tribal land are closed to any access at this time (January 2020) due to the pandemic.

Forks is a real town and the fictional home of the very popular Twilight book and movie series. The town takes full advantage of its fictional setting, selling souvenirs and offering tours to the spots where filming was done. It is a fun visit if you understand ahead of time what the attraction is.

La Push is another Native American beachside location that is adjacent to Olympic National Park land. The Quileute tribe has an oceanfront lodge and two RV campgrounds here. Unfortunately, like Cape Flattery and Neah Bay, the area is closed at the time of publication (January 2020) due to the pandemic. The views at nearby Rialto Beach (accessible via parkland) are beautiful as well.

Sequim is east of Port Angeles and is a lovely arts town. It sits less than 10 miles from the beachside Dungeness Wildlife area where you can walk out onto a spit and view seaside wildlife and birds, and enjoy a quiet respite. Dungeness crab and other local seafood are plentiful at local restaurants. There are some commercial campgrounds, but the best bet is the Clallam County campground in the Dungeness Recreation area.

RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, RVshare has the perfect RV for your vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.

North Carolina is known for its natural beauty and resources from the shores of the Outer Banks to the peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The North Carolina State Parks system began in 1916 with the preservation of the summit of Mount Mitchell. It was the first State Park in the Southeast and among the first in the nation. There are now 41 North Carolina State Parks throughout three different regions — coastal, Piedmont (plains), and mountain.

The parks are diverse in nature but each one is naturally wonderful and scenic. Across the state, you’ll find beaches, lakes, swamps, sand dunes, rock formations, rivers, streams, and waterfalls.

North Carolina’s parks offer opportunities for a host of activities for the outdoor enthusiast including hiking, camping, picnicking, nature study, and environmental education. Each park offers free interpretive programs by rangers on a regular basis.

It doesn’t matter if you hike, walk, bike, swim, or ride. There’s something out there for you to enjoy and experience. Here are my picks for some of the most fabulous state parks in the North Carolina coastal region.

1. Dismal Swamp, South Mills

In an area rich in history, the northernmost coastal state park, Dismal Swamp is the largest remaining swamp in the eastern United States.

Here visitors will find a unique wilderness experience. The abundance of wildlife at Dismal Swamp is probably the largest of the coastal parks. Visitors may see anything from wild turkey, raccoon, and deer to bobcat, gray fox, and even black bear.

The park features 20 miles of trails for hiking and biking. The Swamp Boardwalk is a wonderful half-mile wooden loop trail, perfect for kids and mature visitors. Canoeing and kayaking, as well as fishing, are favorite activities on the park’s 22-mile canal. A launch ramp is conveniently located near the parking lot. Visitors may bring their own equipment or rent at the park.

Accessible parking and restrooms are available. The Swamp Boardwalk, visitor center, auditorium, and exhibits are all accessible.

2. Jockey’s Ridge, Nag’s Head

Located near the infamous Kill Devil Hills on the Outer Banks, Jockey’s Ridge is home to the tallest sand dune on the Atlantic coast. It is a prime location for kite-flying and watching sunsets. The scenic views range from the Atlantic Ocean to the Roanoke Sound.

Hang gliders can sail the same skies as Wilbur and Orville Wright did long ago. The high sand dunes and year-round winds are ideal for this sport. Hang gliding lessons are available through a vendor in the park. Experienced hang gliders must have a current USHPA membership and get a flying permit at the visitor center.

The sound side of the park is a different experience offering sunbathing, wading, paddling, and a 1-mile nature trail that opens onto wetlands, grassy dunes, and maritime thickets.

Visitors with mobility restrictions can ride in an ATV with park staff to the top of the dunes or out to the beach. Reservations are required. Shoes are highly recommended in the sand.

3. Pettigrew, Creswell

Pettigrew State Park is perhaps one of North Carolina’s most interesting parks due to it being mostly a lake — 16,000-acre Lake Phelps, the second largest natural lake in the state. The lake is fed mainly by rainfall (not streams), making it one of the clearest and cleanest lakes in the state.

Located on a peninsula between the Albemarle Sound and the Scuppernong River, Pettigrew is a fisherman’s dream. The shallow waters are home to bass, yellow perch, pickerel, catfish, and pumpkinseed. Anglers can fish from boats or from the shoreline, fishing pier, and boardwalk.

There are two hiking and biking trails in the park, both rated easy. Canoe trails on Lake Phelps and the Scuppernong River allow paddlers to get up close to the local environment.

Picnicking and swimming are also favorite activities for summer visitors. Picnic tables and grills are situated under the cool shade of the cypress trees. Water and restrooms are nearby. Designated swim areas are near both picnic areas.

The Boardwalk Trail and the fishing pier are both wheelchair accessible. Accessible parking and restrooms are provided.

History buffs will find much to explore in the area on land and in the water. Many Native American artifacts have been found including 30 dugout canoes sunken in the lake, one of which is over 4,00 years old.

4. Goose Creek, Washington

Just a short drive from the historic towns of Bath and Washington, Goose Creek State Park is a haven for birds and bird watching. The visitor center has a bird-watching observation station to facilitate the viewing of hundreds of bird varieties. In addition to a variety of birds, the park has a vibrant butterfly garden full of native plants.

Outdoor activities, in the same waters that Blackbeard was said to have traversed, include boating, sailing, paddling, fishing, and swimming. A boat ramp and separate paddling launch are located at the north end of the park across Goose Creek. Swimmers will enjoy a sandy swim beach on the south end of the park.

Landlubbers will be pleased with over eight miles of hiking trails and three separate picnic areas. Rated “easy,” the trails lead visitors through a variety of coastal experiences — live oaks draped in Spanish moss, wetlands, and a cypress swamp. There is an accessible boardwalk trail as well.

Camping is available at Goose Creek at two campgrounds, a 22-space area for RVs and trailers, and a smaller, more secluded tent-only site. Six camper cabins are also available. One cabin is accessible.

5. Hammocks Beach, Swansboro

A unique state park in the barrier islands 20 miles east of Jacksonville, Hammocks Beach State Park is a crown jewel on the North Carolina coast. A passenger ferry (or private boat) transports visitors from the mainland area to Bear Island, which provides oceanside camping, swimming, and picnicking. Visitors can also reach Bear Island by canoe or kayak, which are available for rent, or bring your own.

Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore water trails leading to marshes, Bear Island, or Huggins Island, which is graced with unspoiled maritime forest. Hike the four mainland hiking trails or along the beach on Bear Island.

Fishing for drum, flounder, trout, and bluefish is a favorite pastime at Bear Island. There is no fishing on the mainland.

At the mainland visitor center, there are interpretive programs and exhibits that teach about park ecology and wildlife including endangered sea turtles and nesting shorebirds.

6. Fort Macon, Atlantic Beach

American history buffs will love Fort Macon State Park. The 424-acre park has multiple facets including a perfectly restored Civil War-era fort. Construction of the fort goes back to as early as 1826. The stone jetties were a project of Robert E. Lee in the 1840s.

Visitors can explore the five-sided brick and stone fort on their own or join a guided tour. When the weather is hot you’ll enjoy the extensive museum’s indoor exhibits and gift shop. Fun for the whole family are the cannon and musket demonstrations that are held daily.

At the tip of Bogue Banks, 20 miles east of Jacksonville, the park offers unlimited natural beauty and opportunities to explore salt marshes, estuaries, and sand dune fields. Other park activities include a coastal education center, hiking, picnicking, and bird watching. The peninsula’s 1.5-mile shoreline offers swimming, fishing, and beachcombing. You might even spot some dolphins playing offshore.

A bathhouse and wheelchair-accessible beachside areas are available. Visitors can spend the day or just a few hours.

7. Carolina Beach, Near Wilmington

Located just twelve miles from downtown Wilmington, Carolina Beach State Park is a popular coastal attraction on the Cape Fear River. There are nine “easy” hiking trails traversing through a variety of natural habitats. A half-mile boardwalk trail is host to a variety of carnivorous plants including the rare Venus flytrap, the only place in the country where they grow wild.

A nearby marina with two public boat ramps provides access to some of North Carolina’s best fishing spots. Visitors can also fish from the park’s shore or wooden fishing deck. In addition to hiking and fishing, the park offers kayaking and paddling, picnicking, and a secluded camping area beneath towering trees with 79 campsites and four cabins.

The park is wheelchair accessible throughout, including the fishing deck, Venus flytrap trail, and some picnic and camping spots.

Pro Tips

No admission fees are charged at North Carolina State Parks. Fees for services such as camping, picnic shelter reservations, and equipment rentals are kept as reasonable as possible and may vary from park to park.

The North Carolina State Parks system offers an excellent, user-friendly website that lists all 41 state parks. All the information needed to plan your visit to any park is available on these pages, including fees, hours of operation, maps, fact sheets, amenities, accessibility and reservation information, and FAQs, plus up-to-the-minute information that might affect your visit.

Make sure to take a look at these fantastic North Carolina State Parks in the Piedmont Region as well as these great state parks in North Carolina’s mountains!

For more NC inspiration, consider:

• 10 Best Hikes In Stunning North Carolina
• The Most Scenic Spots To Enjoy Fall Foliage In North Carolina
• The Outer Banks’ Best-Kept Secret: 9 Things To Do In Manteo, North Carolina
• Why Emerald Isle Is Perfect For Your Next Beach Vacation

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of America’s most secluded and beautiful areas. The forests, lakeshore, rolling hills, and historical sites all offer experiences unique to the area. Camping in the Upper Peninsula, or UP of Michigan is a highlight of the camping we have done through the years. I am beginning to plan a return camping trip with our RV, as it’s been 15 years since we have camped there. If you want to view the stars and enjoy a campfire in solitude, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is ideal for you.

The UP of Michigan sits near Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron. It is a gem in one of the far north areas of the United States. As you drive through this incredible peninsula, embrace the views and experiences that you see along the way. Highway 2, along the southern portion of the peninsula, offers views of Lake Michigan. Several parking areas along the route are RV friendly. Many campsites will welcome you and your RV as you take off to explore the beauty of Northern Michigan. After all, every day is a grand day when you step outside the door of your RV to the incredible UP wilderness.

Explore Houghton

My family and I were introduced to Houghton, Michigan, 20 years ago and found ourselves returning each summer for the next several years. It is a small town in the Northern tier of the Keweenaw Peninsula. There are several campgrounds in and around Houghton where you can set up your RV and then drive through the area.

Tour the Quincy Mine. If you are curious about what a miner’s life is like, this tour is for you. Guided tours are offered, and it’s the best way to experience the mine. Dress appropriately, as the mine is 43 degrees. You will also want to wear closed-toed shoes.

The A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum of Michigan is home to more than 40,000 mineral specimens that came to fruition in 1838. Minerals from the Great Lakes region and around the world are at home here. The Guinness World Record 19-ton native copper vein is on display in the Copper Pavilion. There is a small fee to visit, and you can easily spend several hours exploring. Most visitors spend two full hours viewing the colorful minerals. Before you head back to your campsite, swing into the local grocery store to load up your camper for your stay in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Eagle River Lighthouse

Everyone loves a lighthouse. Eagle River is home to the Eagle River Lighthouse on the Keweenaw Peninsula. This lighthouse went into operation in 1854 on the south bend of the Eagle River. In 1874, a new lighthouse with a brick tower and a small dwelling was built. The lighthouse was removed from service in 1908, and it is now a private residence. Enjoy the drive in this part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, as you will not find views like this anywhere else.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers an incredible view of Lake Superior. Summer is a hectic time, and the best tip I can give you is to start your day early. Alger County Road H-58 is the main road through the national lakeshore, and it can accommodate any size RV. That said, the road is curvy and windy and by no means a high-speed highway. Side roads, such as The Little Beaver Lake Road, are not designed for RV travel. Single units over 36 feet and vehicle/trailer combinations longer than 42 feet are prohibited. Any vehicle that is longer than 32 feet should not go down this secondary road.

All campsites within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are drive-in only and require a reservation. Campgrounds within the national lakeshore have size restrictions within each campground. Understand the length restrictions before you visit and make your reservations. Pets are allowed in the campground and must be on a leash. There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups within the national lakeshore campgrounds. Vault toilets and well water are available for campers to use. Cell phone reception is also poor within this area of the UP of Michigan. If you have a shorter RV and want to go off the grid, this is your place to camp.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park sits near the middle of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, along Lake Superior. The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. It has a drop of 50 feet, and it is more than 200 feet across. Four miles downstream is the Lower Falls, a series of five smaller falls. Near 50,000 acres cover more than 13 miles, making this one of the most beautiful parks in the Midwest. A waterfall and one of America’s Great Lakes make this an experience of a lifetime. Pack your sunscreen, bug spray, bottled water, layers of clothing, sunglasses, and a hat for an epic day exploring this state park.

Travelers with smaller RV units can stay at Culhane State Forest Campground, Andrus Lake State Forest Campground, and Bodi Lake State Forest Campground. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis with vault toilets and well water nearby. All campers will need to pay the fees for the campgrounds and the state park’s admission fee. Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers a track chair program, providing accessibility to the nature trails for those who need assistance walking. The track chair is available for your use at the Upper Falls Fact Shack.

Birding In Michigan’s UP

When you camp in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you are in a bird enthusiast’s paradise. Each time you step out of your RV, you have an opportunity to view songbirds, owls, loons, woodpeckers, and sandhill cranes. As you unwind at your campsite after a fun day exploring, sit in the quiet of the wilderness, and listen. The birds will soar overhead, and you may even have a turkey wander into your campsite. Have your binoculars on hand at all times, as you never know what species of birds may pop up in your view.

Whitefish Point is one of the most popular places for birding in the UP. You can see more than 340 species of birds on this point. It’s home to the Whitefish Point Observatory, which has documented the migration of birds since 1979. Geese, ducks, loons, grebes, shorebirds, and raptors reside in this part of Michigan. Owl studies take place here, as well as annual banding of the Northern saw-whet owl. Anyone with an interest in birding will want to visit this observatory. Dress in layers during all times of the year and wear your sunscreen and sunglasses.

Camp In Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

The Porcupine Mountains are near Ontonagon, Michigan. This area in Michigan is home to one of the few remaining large wilderness areas in the Midwest. Stop at the PorcupineMountains Visitor Center and be introduced to the 60,000-acre park. Park employees can answer any questions you may have before you head to your campsite. Presque Isle Rustic Campground and Union Bay Campground offer camping for RV units in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. In Union Bay Campground, you can fall asleep with the sounds of the waves crashing on Lake Superior’s shore. Presque Isle Rustic Campground is a little more shaded and very lush. Reserve your campsite as soon as you know that you want to visit, as these campsites do fill up in the summer.

When morning rolls around, you can start a campfire and enjoy the views of Lake Superior. Dine on bacon and eggs with a view of the lake before you begin to explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Clear your campsite before you leave for the day, as you never know when black bears, moose, wolves, or coyotes will show up to visit.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is an incredible place to spend time with your RV. There’s nowhere that I would rather be than camping in Michigan with just a step between me, the outdoors, and a view of one of America’s Great Lakes. Forests, lakes, ponds, waterfalls, cliffs, lighthouses, star gazing, and sunsets are sure to bring a smile to your face. Plan your visit to Northern Michigan for an unforgettable experience with your RV. Summer is the ideal time to visit, while spring and fall bring spectacular bursts of color. If I had the time and the money, I’d camp in the UP of Michigan all three camping seasons of the year. Spring, summer, and fall each have their own nature experiences to share with all of us.

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Watch a breathtaking sunset along a craggy ridge surrounded only by the sounds of nature. Savor your coffee at the edge of a lake shrouded in morning mist while listening to the birds sing their wake up song. Enjoy a walk along a trail less traveled and nurture your inner peacefulness. Chart thousands of twinkling stars while they light up the night sky.

Immersing yourself in the dispersed camping experience will create a bond with nature you will carry with you always.

Dispersed camping is defined as camping anywhere outside of a designated campground. Also referred to as boondocking or backcountry camping, you are essentially going off the grid. If you are looking for the ultimate place to unplug and unwind, dispersed camping might be just the thing for you.

We asked Brent Kinley, a wilderness guide, desert guide, and thru-hiker, for his insight on dispersed camping. In addition to thru-hiking the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail and the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail, Kinley began dispersed camping when he moved to Utah in 2015. “I usually camp by myself and have 600-plus nights of dispersed camping experiences.”

What Is Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping is camping on public lands where there is not a developed campground or recreation facility closeby. Typically there are little or no services provided. You are dry camping, self-reliant on your generator, your own water supply, and everything you need to survive.

“One of the most important rules of dispersed camping is to pack out everything but liquid; it takes leave no trace to an entirely different level,” Kinley noted.

The National Park Service lists seven leave-no-trace principles. These guidelines serve as a checklist of how to prepare, pack, camp, and enjoy your camping experience.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Which Types Of Land Can You Camp On

The U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages 245 million acres of U.S. land, including forests, mountains, rangelands, arctic tundra, and deserts. More prominent in western states, BLM is the lead agency of public lands and resource management.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Forest Service oversees our National Forests and Grasslands for your recreation pleasure. They oversee our public forests, including trails, recreation sites, wilderness areas, and scenic rivers.

The National Park Service also offers opportunities for dispersed camping. Their wilderness and backcountry camping opportunities take you exploring across the country.

These wildlife organizations’ mission is to conserve our natural, historical, and cultural resources while making some of the land available for public use. Many of these public lands require a pass or permit for day and overnight use. Check with the managing agency to determine if a permit is required. The lead time can be significant if it is a highly desirable area.

How Do You Find Dispersed Camping Sites

Most dispersed camping sites are found along secondary and dirt roads. The areas are not marked. Sites that have been previously used can be ascertained by the flat, disturbed ground where others have set up camp.

The BLM website offers a Visit Us search page that allows you to select a location, activity, and keyword. When you select a specific state and camping as an activity, it will populate with all the BLM-managed lands in that state that allow camping. It also provides the local BLM office, which is your go-to source for local dispersed camping information.

The U.S. National Forest Service offers a Visit Destinations search page that allows you to search dispersed camping sites, trails, and other available activities.

The National Parks Service has an interactive camping map that highlights Camping Opportunities across the country. Each map point connects to an appropriate local park website for all the up-to-the-minute details for that particular park.

The National Geographic Road Atlas is a good source of information and can be very handy when you lose cell service. Google Maps is also a good resource to identify fields, clearings, and access roads to give you a sense of what may be available.

Finding a great dispersed camping site can be a good test of your adventurer’s spirit. Unless you are familiar with the area, finding a site is best accomplished in daylight. Wandering around an unfamiliar desert or forest in the dark is not advised.

What Are The Rules Around Dispersed Camping

Each location has unique regulations, and checking with the local BLM or National Forest or National Parks office is the best resource for their particular camping rules.

There are some general rules and regulations you need to consider to make your dispersed camping experience safe and protect our natural resources.

• Large groups may need to obtain a special use permit from the local district office.
• You must camp at least 100 feet from any water source.
• Follow the leave-no-trace principles for a pack-in, pack-out campsite.
• Depending on where you camp, you must either dig an 8-inch cathole for solid waste or take it with you when you leave.
• Some agencies require you to move your camping location every 14 days.
• Many agencies’ policies include restrictions on leaving any unattended personal property for an extended period of time.

What Should You Bring

The short answer is everything!

“Must-haves include food, water, seasonal clothes, a tarp for shade, firewood, a wag bag, and a paper map. You are going to be self-reliant; expect a more primitive experience than you may be accustomed to,” warned Kinley.

This is a list of basics you should pack, along with other required niceties include:

• A printed map of the area, cell service can be spotty at best
• A good rule of thumb is a gallon of water per person per day and a backup water filtration system
• Food and bear- and animal-proof containers
• A covered trash bin
• Miscellaneous items: flashlight, jackknife, compass, flares, car care kit, first aid kit
• A wag bag or shovel for a cathole (8-inch deep hole) for solid sewage disposal, determined by local regulations
• Firewood if burning is allowed

Dispersed camping requires planning. Whether you sleep in your car or pitch a small tent, you need to bring all your basic creature comforts with you.

Why You Should Try Dispersed Camping

To Literally Get Away From It All

No reservations, no problem. Getting away from it all takes on new meaning. Dispersed camping is an opportunity to enjoy the quiet beauty of Mother Nature, along with a high probability you won’t run into any other campers.

When asked about why he loves dispersed camping, Kinley said, “I love it because you have a wilderness experience; I’m allergic to campgrounds. You see the stars, not people.”

To Experience Unique Adventures

Start your day with an alfresco breakfast at sunrise, hike along a riverbed trail, enjoy a picnic lunch with a picture-perfect view, and dine at your campfire under a canopy of gorgeous stars. When you are out of the mainstream tourist areas, you have time to absorb the beauty around you without that herded-along feeling.

Kinley recounted, “One of my favorite camping trips was a night on the rim of the Grand Canyon. It was really a magical experience.“ Perched on a spot overlooking the canyon without crowds is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

To Commune With Nature

When was the last time you got to stop and smell the roses? We are a nation of busy people, constantly on the go. When you are camping out in the wild, you have a chance to slow down and appreciate what is around you. Dispersed camping is an immersive experience. You are not just an onlooker; you are an active participant in nature.

“I find sometimes I roll over in bed, open my eyes, and I just say, ‘wow’ because of the gorgeous stars. The sounds of the wildlife are so interesting. I remember one trip when a nighthawk, which has a very unique cry, circled the sky. For several nights, I watched the same nighthawk fly the same pattern … the rhythm of nature is so interesting.” Kinley’s deep connection with nature is contagious.

To View The Most Spectacular Starlit Sky

Camping under the stars with no city lights for miles around creates a canvas that is sprinkled with twinkling diamonds. There are few places you can experience this spectacular private, light showcase performance.

Pro Tip: Not ready to get out all on your own? Try a Custom Multi-Day Desert Safari Tour from Dreamland Safari Tours. They also have amazing day tours, and you can find Kinley showing visitors around the gorgeous Utah landscape and beyond.

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The cloud of red dust following our RV announced our imminent arrival at Valley View Hot Springs.

The springs — some of nature’s own soaker tubs — are located on a 2,200-acre parcel of protected land owned and managed by the Orient Land Trust (OLT). We had just turned off the highway in the San Luis Valley in Colorado (about a three-hour drive southwest of Denver) and were glad to leave the traffic behind. As we bounced our way up the seven-mile dirt track, we could already feel the tensions ebb away. We were heading to a unique place where nature, freedom, environment, education, and relaxation coexist in equal measure, where we were about to get away from it all. We arrived tired, stressed, and grubby. Three days later we left relaxed, refreshed, and mentally recharged.

Editor’s Note: As Chris points out below, all Valley View Hot Springs’ experiences, and the property itself, are entirely clothing optional. If you’re new to naturism, you can pursue all our naturism/nudism/clothing-optional content here.

Orient Land Trust is a non-profit trust dedicated to the preservation of wildlife habitat, open space, geological features, and natural resources of the southern San Luis Valley. Along with Valley View Hot Springs (VVHS), OLT manages Everson Ranch, (a self-sufficient working ranch) and Orient Mine (an abandoned iron ore mine). Visitors to Valley View Hot Springs can leave behind today’s crazy world and immerse themselves in the natural serenity of this spectacular environment. The property is surrounded by unspoiled spectacular views, sparkling clear night skies, fresh clean air, and spring-fed pure water to swim in, plus endless hiking trails with opportunities to see local wildlife up close.

The first inhabitants of this area were the Ute Native Americans. In the 1870s it became a homestead for migrants heading west to seek their fortunes. I guess the hot springs were an obvious attraction even then. In the early 1900s, Orient Iron Ore mine was established, and the area was developed as a rustic resort primarily for miners and their families. One existing building (Oak House) was the center of the old Valley View village. The mine had its heyday in the 1920s but shut down in 1932, and the mine and associated resort were abandoned by the end of the Second World War.

The area was rediscovered by travelers in the 1960s; the hot springs were still a great place, just as they had been for centuries before. Neil Seitz was one of the individuals who started frequenting the springs at that time, and he realized the magic of the place. He started working as a gatekeeper for the then owner and has been at Valley View ever since. Neil and his wife Terri purchased the resort in 1979, and in 2001 co-founded OLT. Today the Trust boasts 1,400 members, and Valley View Hot Springs welcomes visitors for both day and overnight access.

1. Soak In The Hot Springs

Our first foray around the lands (it’s not a site, per se — there are no fences) soon reminded us of our altitude! Valley View sits at 8,600 feet on the side of a valley, and the uphill stroll to the top soaking ponds (even though it’s only a very few minutes’ walk) takes your breath away — literally.

We rose with the sun and wandered up to one of the six hot springs carrying only our towels. The entire property is clothing optional. The crunch of our feet on the rocky path was accompanied only by the endless splashing of the tumbling water as it cascaded from the springs down the hillside. We passed the first spring, where already a couple was floating in the water. Had they been here all night, and were they in fact still alive? Assured they still had pulses and were enjoying themselves, we moved on up the path to find our own private pond. Well, it was sort of private, if you don’t mind sharing your water with a drinking deer. We slipped into the water — only two feet deep — and laid back. It’s the closest you will ever get to being back in the womb. The deer wandered off and we floated languidly, said nothing, and watched as the sun slowly lifted itself above the valley.

Distant birdsong and chirruping insects were our surround sound. To one side, we heard a rustling. It took a mighty effort to lift my head to see what it was. Eventually, I could see a garter snake had caught a small bird and was dragging it off for breakfast. It was reassuring to know we were still at the top of the food chain. If you’re lucky you may spot black bear, fox, antelope, and elk as well as a myriad of colorful birds. I closed my eyes and tried to blend in with nature. I didn’t want to ever leave this place.

2. Swim Under The Stars

There is a large, hot spring-fed swimming pool (about 90 F in the summer), a natural hot tub (about 104 F), and a green sauna among Valley View’s amenities. It is fed constantly with fresh spring water that not only keeps it clean and avoids the use of chlorine but also keeps it a comfortable temperature (in the mid-80s) during the night and in the wintertime. Overlooking the valley below and with an unobstructed view of a light free sky, the pool is a great place to while away the hours at any time of the year.

3. Watch The Nightly Bat Show At Orient Mine

The abandoned mine is now home to Colorado’s largest colony of migrating bachelor Mexican free-tailed bats. Around sunset in the summer, about 250,000 of these wonderful creatures leave the cave in a corkscrew stream that continues for about 20 minutes. It’s an amazing spectacle that is well worth the mile hike (including an 800-foot elevation change). Volunteers (often previous visitors who have fallen in love with OLT and want to give something back) lead the tour to the bat cave.

Editor’s Note: Want to see bats but nowhere near Colorado? Consider a visit to the University of Florida’s amazing bat houses in Gainesville, or witness a once-in-a-lifetime animal experience in Africa: the straw-colored fruit bat migration in Zambia’s Kasanka National Park.

4. Gaze At The Stars

The elevation and lack of light pollution make this a great place to view the night sky, which visitors are encouraged to do using one of the donated telescopes. Volunteers are often available to provide guidance and informal education on what planets and stars visitors are observing. It’s free, informal, and friendly — it doesn’t get better than that.

5. Check Out How Nature’s Energy Is Being Harnessed

There is an air of serenity at OLT — but don’t be fooled. There is a lot of hard work and sweat being expended here — and it’s done the natural way. Back in 1975, Neil built a water wheel out of plywood and used parts to generate enough electricity for a couple of houses. Today OLT is completely off the grid, harnessing the energy from cascading spring water as it flows down the hill to the valley below, in the process generating some 40 to 65kW through its own hydro-electric plant.

Geothermal energy is also used to heat some of the buildings as the spring water’s piped under the floors.

6. Explore Everson Ranch

OLT’s historic 150-year-old Everson Ranch is currently being renovated within its historical facades to create an educational and living agricultural facility showcasing sustainable agricultural processes and innovative energy production methods. It has been a working ranch since it was homesteaded in 1872 and has been passed down from generation to generation.

The 760-acre Everson Ranch was added to the Orient Land Trust in 2004.

7. Not Just Any Hole In The Ground: Witness A Geological Fault Line

The Sangre de Cristo Fault (Colorado’s most active fault) passes through OLT and can be clearly seen. It may seem like no more than an earthen trench to most of us, but it’s pretty cool to think this is an active fault line where the earth is still moving, and getting to see it will be especially thrilling for any rock enthusiast. As with most things at OLT, there will be someone who can tell you all about it.

8. Make The Most Of The Communal Amenities

There is a communal kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator for visitors staying in the cabins. Since the closest supermarket store is 37 miles away, sharing is a good thing. The sense of community is also noted in the co-ed shower and toilet building. There are private stalls (thank you!) and a urinal in the middle. The first time a lady wanders past you with a cheery “Good morning” while you are peeing might seem disconcerting, but like everything else around here, it’s only natural.

Valley View Hot Springs Pro Tips

Be Sure To Make A Reservation

There is a range of accommodation available including a number of rustic cabins with communal kitchens and bathrooms, 24 RV sites, and 23 tent camping sites.

We had pre-booked our stay (this is a must no matter what accommodation you choose as the number of visitors at any one time is limited to preserve the serenity of the place) and had a wonderful spot overlooking the valley below. We did not have any hookups or dump stations — and frankly did not want them here. Nor did we use the RV generator. Somehow it would have felt an intrusion on the serene environment in which we were just temporary occupants. Noise was created only by the wildlife around us and every effort was made to screen artificial lights so as not to interfere with night sky viewing. There are many “quiet zones” — especially around the hot springs — where cell phones and other electronics are prohibited. Wonderful.

Accessibility

There are no paved roads at Valley View, and the cabins are just a short walk from the office and pool. The nearest hot spring is less than a five-minute walk from the office but it is gently uphill. It isn’t a difficult or steep walk, but the path can be uneven and something more than flip flops are recommended. The walk to Orient Mine does require sturdy shoes.

Families and young children are an important part of the OLT community. We enjoyed the company of a number of families with young children, couples of all ages, single men and women, mothers and daughters, and a delightful group of teens. Everyone is welcome here as long as they commit to the OLT values of Recognition, Respect, and Responsibility. With 11,000 visitors annually, there is lots of opportunity to chat and enjoy the company of like-minded others. But with daily visitor numbers pegged and with over 2,000 acres to explore, there is even more opportunity to find solace here. We enjoyed chatting in the springs when others wanted to talk, but we also enjoyed the alone quiet times, too. It was fun strolling around the area and meeting others wearing nothing but a smile and sharing a hot spring with others in the raw — well, it was the only natural thing to do.

You don’t have to be a member of Orient Land trust to visit Valley View. Having experienced the passion and enthusiasm of the volunteers in their preservation and education work, it’s hard not to support them so that future generations may come to enjoy this remarkable place.

Prepare For Your Naturist Vacation

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The first time I drove through Idaho, I went from south to north and was mesmerized by the changing landscapes. There are tumbleweeds and desert sand in the south, and as you go north you cross mountainous terrain. The far north is alpine country, which is breathtaking.

Many people enjoy the winter ski season in Idaho and even camp in their RVs to do it. Summer and fall, however, are golden times for fishing, hiking, and enjoying a campfire by a lake or river in one of the 27 Idaho state parks. I’ve enjoyed camping in Idaho and look forward to many more visits.

1. Bear Lake State Park: The Crown Jewel

What could be better than a huge lake that is 20 miles long by 8 miles wide with views of the Cache mountain range? Most water enthusiasts would say there is no better place than Bear Lake State Park. Tucked away in the far southeast corner of Idaho sits this magnificent lake, half of which extends across the border into Utah. Tens of thousands of visitors come all year long to visit the turquoise waters and fish, swim, and boat in the summer and icefish in the winter. There are 47 electric RV sites (currently $35 per night) and the campground is lakeside with direct lake views. You’ll be steps away from the sandy shores. There is a separate loop for tent campers. No wonder they call this place the “Caribbean of the Rockies.”

If you get tired of hanging out at the lake, make a day trip to Minnetonka Cave, just west of Bear Lake in St. Charles Canyon. This cave sits near the Porcupine Campground and is maintained by the USDA Forest Service. You’ll be deep in the forest and hike a lot of stairs and some slippery terrain with your tour guide. Bring a jacket as the cave is a constant 40 degrees. There is plenty of wildlife to be seen in the area including moose.

2. Bruneau Dunes State Park

Also at the southern end of the state, one hour south of Boise is the Bruneau Dunes State Park. It’s out of the way and quite a unique place. It hosts the largest free-standing sand dunes in North America topping out at 470 feet. The Colorado sand dunes top out at 700 feet, but they are not free-standing in that they side up to a mountain range. Regardless of which is the tallest, the Idaho dunes are a lot of fun and easily accessible. For $15 per day, you can rent a sandboard and ride it down the dunes (except in summer when the sand is too hot). Of course, you have to climb to the top to use the board (no trails or boardwalks). If sand dune boarding is not for you, then try fishing in the two small lakes that are on park property. There is a fishing rod loaner program at the park. Fishing licenses are required — $11.50 for a day pass or $30.50 for an annual license. If you bring your own equipment, the Snake River is just a few miles away. Or try a spot at the nearby Idaho Power Cottonwood Campground on an offshoot of the CJ Strike Reservoir for the Snake River. You can use the park for the day and head back to Brueneu to camp. Or try one of their 31 water-only campsites.

There are two campgrounds at Bruneau with 80 electric/water sites. The elevated, Broken Wheel loop has a view of the dunes under cottonwood trees. It’s the only shady place in this desert-terrain park. The Eagle Cove loop is next to the lakes at the base of the dunes. Fees are $26 to $29 per night. If you want to bring your horses, you can tent-camp in the equestrian loop.

There is plenty of hiking in the park. A six-mile trail takes you to the top of the large dune, an arduous climb, and back down around the lake, through the wetlands, and back to the visitor center. Shorter and less strenuous hikes at the lake are available (1.2 miles around the lake), and you can drive and park at the lake area and use the picnic tables while you are there. If you are camping on the weekend, go to the park observatory where large telescopes are available to view the stars from April to October (a small event fee is required).

Wildlife is present in the park, though it is not considered bear country. Coyotes are sure to be heard at night, deer and raccoons are present in the campgrounds, and there are plenty of birds to view as well. The temperate climate in this park means camping is available year-round. Despite its desert terrain, hills and mountains are within eyesight enveloping this very unique park.

3. Henrys Lake State Park

Henrys Lake State Park is on the Idaho/Montana border and is about 16 miles from West Yellowstone, Montana, which sits next to Yellowstone National Park. Henrys Lake is a perfect base camp for exploring Yellowstone but offers its own unique setting. This 6,000-acre alpine lake sits at an elevation of 6,476 feet. The campground sits on the lake with spectacular sunset views and light bouncing off the nearby mountains. Fishing is the main attraction at this park with renowned trout fishing on the lake. You can fish from the pier or shore with a loaner rod if you don’t bring your own. If you want to go fishing on the lake, you must bring your own boat and registration is required. There are boat inspection sites on all roads in Idaho, so be prepared with your paperwork. Unfortunately, even though this lake is beautiful, leeches prevent it from being a fully enjoyable swimming lake.

The surrounding area is filled with trees and mountains though the park itself is flat and open. There are asphalt roads and wide trails near the campground. The park has several miles of hiking trails that go up into the aspen forest. The shortest loop is 1.39 miles and skirts the base of the forest. Another 1-mile loop goes through the forest. For those who want a view, take the half-mile Overlook View trail out of the forest. This is bear country, so be on the lookout and carry bear spray. Moose are sometimes seen in the forested area as well. Summertime also brings hoards of mosquitos, so be armed with bug repellent. Springtime brings out a beautiful display of wildflowers. For those who want longer wilderness hikes, Yellowstone is only 15 miles away.

Sitting by the lake, you’ll see an amazing array of birds. White trumpeter swans can be seen and heard on the lake along with plenty of ducks and gulls. Eagles, hawks, and osprey are plentiful. The shoreline area sports cranes and herons that migrate there in the summer. See our best binocular picks for any budget here are a valuable item if birding is to be part of your fun.

Editor’s Note: See our best binocular picks for any budget here.

4. Farragut State Park

No visit to Idaho is complete without a visit to the northern tip of the state where alpine lakes and forests beckon. Farragut State Park is an interesting place for all sorts of outdoor activity year-round. It sits on what was once a World War II base and there are remnants and a museum in the park commemorating this. The campground has over 200 RV camping spots — some with full hook-ups. There is a dump station on site. Tent campers and equestrian campers are accommodated in separate campground loops.

Farragut is truly a year-round park. In the summer there are all the activities you would expect being on Lake Pend Oreille with swimming, fishing, boating, and canoeing. There are 40 miles of summer hiking trails including an ADA trail, where you will spot lots of wildlife. Or take on the mini-disc golf course. You’ll also find a remote-controlled airplane field. In the fall, the park is open for licensed hunters. In winter there are groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as ski runs.

You will want to make a day trip to Lake Coeur d’Alene, which is only 25 miles south. The lake is breathtaking in its beauty. You can hike, bike, walk, or sit and admire it from the 5.7 miles of paved trails on the lakeshore at the Coeur d’Alene Parkway day-use area. It’s conveniently located at the eastern edge of the lake. Start at the town of Coeur d’Alene and drive southeast on East Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive for spectacular scenery.

These four parks barely scratch the surface of the wilderness wonderland that is Idaho. Fly fishing on the Snake River is not to be missed whether you are a confirmed enthusiast or simply want to sit on the banks. With mountains everywhere, it is a visual delight to be in Idaho. For more Gem State inspiration, consider:

• 10 Best Hikes To Experience In Beautiful Idaho
• Sun Valley, Idaho: The Best Things To Do When You Aren’t Skiing
• Discovering Basque Culture In Boise, Idaho
• How To Visit Idaho’s Beautiful Shoshone Falls
• 8 Reasons To Visit Idaho’s Redfish Lake