Ferris Bueller said it best "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." This quote inspired the creation of this curated list of our top camping destinations in the United States for Summer 2023, highlighting the country's diverse cultural and natural wonders. While some locations may require venturing off the beaten path, the experiences gained will undoubtedly be worthwhile. Obviously, Cuyuna, Minnesota made this list. Discover our recommended destinations below.
Badlands National Park in South Dakota boasts stunning and unexpectedly beautiful landscapes. Despite the harsh conditions, the weather is typically breathtaking. Visitors can marvel at impressive rock formations and vast plains and explore fossils-rich areas.
Two campgrounds are available for visitors to choose from during their stay at the park. Cedar Pass offers 96 campsites, with running water and power facilities and breathtaking views of the surrounding rock formations. On the other hand, Sage Creek is a more modest campground that often sees bison wandering freely through the area. However, only 22 first-come, first-served campsites are available, and no running water. Whether you stay at Cedar Pass or Sage Creek, you will have an unforgettable camping experience at Badlands National Park.
Experience the best camping at Many Glacier Campground, in the heart of the Mountain West's premier attractions. Situated around Swift Current Lake in Glacier National Park, the campground is surrounded by five of the park's most iconic mountains. Many Glacier offers park amenities such as a restaurant, a grocery shop, and more, providing campers with easy access to everything they need. The campground offers quick access to numerous trailheads and outdoor activities, making it an ideal base for an extended stay. Look for wildlife, including bears and moose that can often be seen from your tent. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment. Enjoy stunning mountain views and catch glimpses of glaciers right from the campsite. The campground is spacious and provides a friendly atmosphere.
The Rocky Mountains, picturesque lakes, and various animals can be viewed north of Jackson Hole. Grand Teton National Park is located nearby, offering visitors a chance to explore its breathtaking beauty. Although the national park has six other campgrounds, Signal Mountain is considered one of the best.
RV parks and a township with tent cottages are available for those seeking something more upscale than traditional tent camping. Campsites can be reserved online up to six months in advance, but they fill up quickly, so prompt booking is recommended. While camping, visitors should be alert as buffalos, moose, mule deer, and even bears may wander into the camping area.
Located in Northern California, Yosemite National Park is a diverse natural reserve that stretches across the Sierra Nevada Mountains, covering vast areas of several counties. With 13 campgrounds within the park, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including majestic lakes, cascading waterfalls, sprawling glaciers, and clusters of Sequoia trees.
Due to the high demand for Yosemite's campsites, it is advisable to book ahead, particularly during the peak season from April to September. This way, you can secure your spot and have the best camping experience in this magnificent national park.
Located in Texas, Big Bend National Park is a stunning destination nestled close to the Rio Grande, providing visitors with the perfect spot for thrilling whitewater canoeing, rafting, and kayaking experiences. With hiking and backpacking trails traversing the park's vast desert, scenic rivers, and mountain vistas, adventurers can explore this magnificent natural reserve to their heart's content.
The park offers RV campsites, three established campgrounds (Chisos Basin, Cottonwood, and Rio Grande Village), and many backcountry camping options. Suppose you plan to go on river trips or utilize the park's primitive campsites. In that case, you must obtain a backcountry permit before your visit. This will ensure you can maximize your trip to Big Bend National Park while complying with park regulations.
Minnewaska State Park Reserve sits atop the Shawangunk Ridge, soaring over 2,000 feet above sea level, enveloped by challenging terrain, and located roughly 94 miles away from New York City. The park offers ample open spaces for visitors to explore on foot or on two wheels while relishing the stunning views. With 50 tent sites and 5 car-camping sites, the park provides ample camping options and convenient amenities such as Wi-Fi, coin-operated restrooms, shared fire pits, and picnic pavilions.
Located just 10 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge in California, Kirby Cove offers four secluded campsites with stunning waterfront views of San Francisco. The campgrounds are close to a rocky beach and a picturesque picnic area, nestled within the shade of Monterey cypress trees.
For those looking for a perfect spot on the beach, keep an eye out for a rope swing that adds to the picturesque charm of the area. Kirby Cove is the ideal spot for a peaceful getaway in nature. You can soak in the magnificent views, relax on the beach, and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Camping at True North Basecamp, located in Crosby, Minnesota, offers numerous benefits to visitors. The campsite is connected to the Cuyuna Recreation Area, which boasts over 5,000 acres of breathtaking lakes and trails perfect for outdoor activities such as mountain biking, kayaking, and hiking.
True North Basecamp offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, cabin tents, and cabins, making it suitable for various camping preferences. The campsite also offers multiple amenities, such as fire ring with cooking grates and picnic tables, firewood delivery, clean showers and restrooms,
Moreover, True North Basecamp allows visitors to unplug and disconnect from technology while reconnecting with nature. It's an excellent chance to relax, destress, and enjoy the natural beauty of Minnesota. Overall, camping at True North Basecamp and exploring the Cuyuna Recreation Area provides an incredible outdoor experience for families, couples, and solo adventurers.