23 Most Scenic Places to Camp in the United States

Ready to ditch the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors? The United States is brimming with stunning landscapes perfect for unforgettable camping adventures. From majestic mountains to serene coastlines, we've compiled a list of 23 of the most scenic places to pitch your tent and reconnect with nature.

Coastal Camping Paradises

For those who love the sound of crashing waves and salty air, these coastal campsites offer breathtaking views and access to incredible beaches.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

Experience the rugged beauty of the Maine coast at Acadia National Park. With its granite cliffs, stunning ocean views, and opportunities for hiking and biking, Acadia offers a diverse camping experience. Otter Creek Campground is a popular choice, but be sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.

2. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland & Virginia

Witness the magic of wild horses roaming freely along the beach at Assateague Island. This barrier island offers unique camping opportunities right on the sand, allowing you to fall asleep to the sound of the ocean. Be prepared for potential mosquito activity!

3. Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park boasts a diverse ecosystem, including stunning beaches. Kalaloch Campground and Mora Campground offer easy access to the coastline, where you can explore tide pools, hike along dramatic cliffs, and watch for whales.

4. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park offers a truly unique camping experience. Explore Fort Jefferson, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and camp under the stars in this remote and pristine paradise.

Mountain Majesty Camping Spots

If you're seeking breathtaking mountain vistas and challenging hikes, these campsites will leave you in awe.

5. Glacier National Park, Montana

Known as the "Crown of the Continent," Glacier National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning glaciers, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes, Glacier offers a variety of camping options. Many Glacier Campground and Fish Creek Campground are popular choices, offering incredible views and access to hiking trails.

6. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Gaze upon the iconic peaks of the Grand Teton Range while camping in this stunning national park. Jenny Lake Campground offers breathtaking views, while Gros Ventre Campground is a larger option with more amenities. Don't forget your bear spray!

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

Experience the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its lush forests, abundant wildlife, and historic sites, the Smokies offer a diverse camping experience. Elkmont Campground is a popular choice, offering access to hiking trails and scenic drives.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Explore the high-altitude landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park. With its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, Rocky Mountain offers incredible camping opportunities. Moraine Park Campground and Aspenglen Campground are popular choices, but reservations are essential.

9. Yosemite National Park, California

A world-renowned destination, Yosemite National Park is a must-see for any camper. With its towering granite cliffs, giant sequoia trees, and stunning waterfalls, Yosemite offers an unforgettable experience. Upper Pines Campground and North Pines Campground are centrally located but book up months in advance.

Desert Oasis Camping Locations

Discover the stark beauty of the desert with its unique landscapes and starry night skies.

10. Zion National Park, Utah

Hike through the narrow canyons and marvel at the towering sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park. South Campground and Watchman Campground offer convenient access to the park's shuttle system and hiking trails. Be prepared for hot temperatures during the summer months.

11. Arches National Park, Utah

Witness the breathtaking beauty of over 2,000 natural sandstone arches at Arches National Park. Devils Garden Campground is the only campground within the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Book well in advance!

12. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Explore the unique desert landscape of Joshua Tree National Park, characterized by its iconic Joshua trees and rugged rock formations. Jumbo Rocks Campground and Hidden Valley Campground offer a variety of camping options. Be prepared for hot days and cold nights.

13. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Experience the vastness and solitude of Big Bend National Park, located in the Chihuahuan Desert. The park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites. Rio Grande Village Campground is a popular choice, offering easy access to the Rio Grande River.

Lakeside & Riverside Retreats

Enjoy the tranquility of camping near a lake or river, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

14. Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

Surrounded by stunning mountains and forests, Lake Tahoe offers a variety of camping options along its shores. D.L. Bliss State Park and Emerald Bay State Park are popular choices, offering incredible views and access to the lake.

15. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Explore the interconnected waterways of Voyageurs National Park by boat or canoe. The park offers a variety of camping options on islands and along the shores of its many lakes. This is a true wilderness experience!

16. Buffalo National River, Arkansas

Float down the pristine Buffalo National River and camp along its banks. The park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds to backcountry sites. This is a great option for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing camping experience.

17. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio

Explore the unique rock formations and waterfalls of Hocking Hills State Park. The park's campground offers a variety of amenities and access to hiking trails that lead to stunning natural wonders.

Unique & Unexpected Camping Gems

These campsites offer something a little different, from ancient forests to volcanic landscapes.

18. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Camp among the towering redwood trees in Redwood National and State Parks. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park offer a variety of camping options and the chance to experience the majesty of these ancient giants.

19. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Witness the stunning beauty of Crater Lake, a deep blue lake formed in the caldera of a collapsed volcano. Mazama Campground offers incredible views of the lake and access to hiking trails. Be prepared for cool temperatures, even in the summer.

20. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Explore the vast cave system of Mammoth Cave National Park and camp above ground in the park's campgrounds. This park offers a unique combination of underground adventures and outdoor recreation.

21. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Experience the beauty of an old-growth bottomland hardwood forest at Congaree National Park. The park offers a variety of camping options, including backcountry sites along the Congaree River. Be prepared for potential flooding.

22. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Hike to stunning alpine vistas and camp amidst the rugged terrain of the White Mountain National Forest. This area offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds to remote backcountry sites.

23. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin

Kayak among the scenic sandstone islands of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and camp on the beaches. This park offers a unique camping experience for those seeking adventure on the Great Lakes.

Quick Reference Guide: Scenic Camping Locations

To help you plan your next adventure, here's a quick overview of the locations mentioned:

Remember to always check the specific campground regulations and make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season. Pack appropriately for the weather and the activities you plan to participate in. And most importantly, leave no trace and respect the natural environment so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for generations to come. Happy camping!