We know California has so many beautiful sites and places to camp. Whether you are taking in the yuccas and shrubs of Joshua Tree, or the mesmerizing nature of Yosemite, we are privileged to be so close to what the Golden State has to offer, but this list will comprise of destinations outside the state that we feel deserve a ton of recognition for being absolutely breath taking. Here are our 5 bucket list camping destinations in the United States:
1. North Cascade National Park, Washington
Tucked in-between Vancouver and Seattle, the North Cascade National Park is a sensory overload with a huge wilderness of mountains, glaciers and forest. At more than 500,000 acres, this national park has diverse weather, a thriving ecosystem, and jaw dropping scenery. Lake Chelan, with its turquoise waters is an outdoors person’s dream, and the Lake Shore Trail provides some of the best panoramic views (and exercise!).
2. Apostle Islands National Seashore, Wisconsin
Expect more midwest flavor later but for now we will take you to Lake Superior, right at the tip of Wisconsin and tell you about Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Just outside the shore town of Bayfield, Apostle Islands comprises of a shoreline and 21 islands that make up the tip of the Badger State. Here you will find an abundance of hiking trails, forests, and sea caves. Many of the islands have campsites which feature amenities like toilets, tables, and fire pits. This place is an absolute gem.
3. Baxter State Park, Maine
Yes, Maine is a nature lover’s dream. It is a state that is known for its less than stellar internet connection, and rightfully so. It is too beautiful and abundant to be glued to the screen of our phones. Within Baxter State Park is Mount Katahdin which provides wonderful terrain for climbing, and the South Branch Pond which is arguably the most beautiful site of the entire park, and it offers 21 tent sites, vault outhouses and a large family bunkhouse.
4. Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
We told you there would be more midwestern flare, and this state park right outside of Columbus is exactly that. Filled with expansive caves, scenic waterfalls, and narrow gorges, this state park will have you reaching for your camera every moment. If you take the trails inside the park, you will be lead through stone stairs up to a rock house with a scene that will blow your mind. RV hookup, toilets, and showers are available as well.
5. Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Alaska
Based on scenery alone, the Glacier Bay National Park is an absolute must. The snow capped glacier mountains reflecting back off and through the water is the only sell we need. Campers are encouraged to raft, and the center of the park is an actual glacier that can be hiked! It is also important to note that the trails are unmarked and that makes this entire park alluring to those who seek adventure. Only accessible by foot, the Bartlett Cove Campground is the off-grid experience many are looking for, while fire pits, firewood, toilet, bear-proof food storage, and warm shelter reside along the sores of it. And if you’re hungry, cast your rod and catch your dinner off the Bartlett Cove, and cook it over fire.
