There is no better time to hit the road and enjoy an epic road trip or camping experience in the US than in the summer. The days are longer, the temperatures are warm, the weather can be beautiful and the stunning parks invite you to explore, indulge, and enjoy every moment in the wild. You can choose destinations where you can mingle with huge crowds or you can go off the beaten path and avoid people altogether. (That’s one of the best parts about camping, if you ask us! You can be as social or as secluded as you prefer!)
If you are planning to go camping in the summer in the United States, check out these suggestions for some of the best places to camp.
Death Valley National Park (California)
The name of this park is rightly given! Death Valley National Park in California records some of the highest temperatures in the US during the summer season. The nights are cool with clear, beautiful skies that invite stargazing enthusiasts. A popular campground in Death Valley is the Panamint Campground. There you will find amenities such as showers and toilets. There are numerous campsites to choose from.
Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Joshua Tree National Park is a unique and beautiful spot to explore. Part of its uniqueness is thanks to the Yucca Brevifolia trees that grow here (and nowhere else in the world). There is little vegetation here to shield visitors from the weather elements. Joshua Tree is incredibly popular among hikers and rock climbers.
Acadia National Park (Maine)
Covering a swath of more than 50,000 acres of coastal land, Acadia National Park is a camper’s paradise. There are stunning views of the ocean and lush forests to explore here. Campgrounds are also numerous. Some offer a full array of amenities while others provide a basic, primitive spot and nothing more. You will want to make reservations as far in advance as possible. Certain popular activities in Acadia in the summer include hiking, kayaking, stargazing, and watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain.
Assateague Island National Seashore (Maryland)
Assateague Island National Seashore combines the beach with camping and is a wildly popular summer camping destination. Enjoy walking barefoot on the beach and spending your evenings stargazing by the campfire. You may even spot wild horses here during the day (or hear them plundering about during the night!).
You can only camp on the Maryland side of the island (the island spans MD and VA state lines) and you need to book early because the campsites fill out very fast. (The picture above was actually snapped from our campsite at Castaways RV Resort. Located in Ocean City, MD, it sits across the bay from Assateague Island. If you look closely, you can make out the outline of Assateague in the distance. Assateague is a short drive from Castaways. If you are unable to secure a reservation at Assateague’s campground, or if you prefer full hookups to primitive sites, Castaways is a great alternative.)
Make sure you check out our top recommendations for RV beach camping supplies if you decide on a coastal destination!
Yosemite National Park (California)
Yosemite is like heaven on Earth for outdoor lovers. Here you can completely unplug from the outside world and enjoy the stunning wilderness, amazing rock formations, and beautiful hiking trails. There are several campgrounds to choose from in Yosemite, so be sure to check them out and keep in mind which amenities are most important to you. Yosemite draws thousands of hikers and climbers every year. The most experienced of whom attempt to climb Half Dome – one of the most famous rock-climbing peaks in the world.
Zion National Park (Utah)
Deep canyons, winding rivers, and beautiful gorges are some of the best-known characteristics of Zion National Park. This is one of the best camping destinations for people who love extreme outdoor sports. Rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, and biking are some of the popular sports activities you can enjoy when you camp in this location.
White Mountain National Forest (New Hampshire)
White Mountain National Forest is an ideal location for campers who love backwoods, primitive camping. Explore beautiful mountains and lush vegetation. You may even spot a coyote or two as you take a hike, so be cautious. There are many camping sites to choose from but do not expect to find any modern amenities.
Let us know what spots you might add to our list! Leave us a comment and tell us about it!
