Top Camping Spots in the US for 2025: 10 Must-Visit Locations
Looking for the best camping destinations across the United States in 2025? Whether you love mountain hikes, lakeside views, desert sunsets, or stargazing in the wilderness, these 10 camping spots offer unforgettable outdoor experiences for tents, RVs, or families.
Table of Contents
- 1. Yosemite National Park, CA
- 2. Great Smoky Mountains, TN/NC
- 3. Glacier National Park, MT
- 4. Zion National Park, UT
- 5. Acadia National Park, ME
- 6. Olympic National Park, WA
- 7. Arches National Park, UT
- 8. Joshua Tree National Park, CA
- 9. Mount Shasta Campgrounds, CA
- 10. Adirondack Mountains, NY
- 11. FAQ
1. Yosemite National Park, California
- Famous for waterfalls, granite cliffs, and old-growth forests
- Popular campgrounds: North Pines, Tuolumne Meadows
- Book early — permits go fast!
2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
- Foggy forest trails, wildlife, and rivers
- Cades Cove and Elkmont Campground are scenic and accessible
3. Glacier National Park, Montana
- Alpine lakes, glaciers, and stunning views on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Try Fish Creek Campground or backcountry permits
4. Zion National Park, Utah
- Iconic red rock formations and dramatic canyons
- South and Watchman Campgrounds offer shuttle access to Zion Canyon
5. Acadia National Park, Maine
- Perfect for East Coast campers who love ocean cliffs and pine forests
- Blackwoods Campground is close to Cadillac Mountain sunrise
6. Olympic National Park, Washington
- Coastal beaches, temperate rainforests, and mountain ranges in one place
- Try Kalaloch, Sol Duc, or Hoh Rainforest campgrounds
7. Arches National Park, Utah
- Over 2,000 natural stone arches and stunning desert views
- Devils Garden Campground is located deep inside the park
8. Joshua Tree National Park, California
- Known for surreal desert landscapes and bouldering
- Hidden Valley and Jumbo Rocks are scenic and popular
9. Mount Shasta Campgrounds, California
- Lesser-known gem with forest trails, lava tubes, and spiritual vibes
- Lake Siskiyou and Panther Meadows offer serene views
10. Adirondack Mountains, New York
- Upstate NY wilderness with lakes, trails, and canoe camping
- Try Forked Lake or Rollins Pond campgrounds for family-friendly access
11. FAQ
- Q: Do I need permits to camp in national parks?
A: Many popular parks require advance reservations or permits — check recreation.gov. - Q: Can I bring my dog camping?
A: Some parks allow dogs on leash, others don’t. Research in advance. - Q: Are there free camping spots?
A: Yes! Look into dispersed camping on BLM or national forest land.
These 10 camping destinations offer some of the best natural experiences in America. Whether you’re road tripping cross-country or just escaping for a weekend, these spots deserve a place on your 2025 bucket list.