By Allie Wisniewski, American Forests
Whether you’re drawn to the wilderness of the backcountry or the amenities of more civilized outdoor sites, there’s a national park out there that will satisfy your camping criteria. Let’s take a look at the best of the best: the 10 most amazing national park campgrounds in the United States.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Piñon Flats, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
This unique campground is nested right smack in the middle of the park, boasting extraordinary views of North America’s tallest sand dunes as well as Colorado’s Sangre de Cristo mountain range. When visited in the spring, the Medano Creek flows through the site — a perfect spot to beat the heat, swim and relax.
Wonder Lake, Denali National Park, Alaska
Are you an avid climber? Being the closest campground to the tallest peak in North America, the 20,310-foot Denali, this site is deep in the wilderness and provides the amazing opportunity to enjoy a world-class view without the constant hum of generators. That’s right — Wonder Lake campground is tent-only. In addition to the unmatchable views, the site boasts wetland trails and great fishing and bird-watching.
Namakanipaio, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawai‘i
There are few places in the world where you can take in the humbling majesty of active volcanoes. This campground happens to be one of them. The site is perched on the mountainside at 4,000 feet and is just a short drive from the hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the Kīlauea Caldera. For those whose preferences lie more in the arena of “glamping,” the campground offers 10 cabins in addition to plenty of tent sites.
Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland
Tuweep, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
It’s no secret that the Grand Canyon’s North Rim is far less congested than its southern counterpart, and this campground is a testament to that reality. Practically isolated, it’s located 212 miles from the South Rim and requires visitors to travel 56 to 91 miles along potentially impassible dirt roads. Needless to say, if you’re looking for seclusion, this is the site for you. Be warned, however, that there are absolutely no amenities provided — you’re on your own as far as food, water, gas and lodging.
Anacapa Island, Channel Islands National Park, California
Gulpha Gorge, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas
Hot Springs National Park is located on the north end of the city of Hot Springs (creative, huh?), and is home to 47 natural springs, many of which have been transformed into bathhouses for visitors to enjoy. Experience the park’s healing thermal waters and enjoy Gulpha Creek, which runs along Gulpha Gorge’s campsites.