Top 10 Best Places to Camp in The U.S. (2023)
More than 8 million campground reviews, photos and tips.
Over 50,000 U.S. campgrounds.
10 winners.
These are the 2023 Best Places to Camp: Top 10 in the U.S., according to The Dyrt camping community.
Based on reviews and ratings from its vast community of campers, The Dyrt has identified these 10 spots as the best of the best when it comes to places to camp in America.
The variance on this list truly demonstrates that there’s no exact formula that defines a great place to camp, but you know it when you see it.
Take, for example, the top 3 places on the list. One sits in the shadows of the tallest mountain in North America; another requires travel by water to access every single campsite in the park; and the third has equestrian camping as part of its offerings.
This is why camping has exploded in popularity and why more than 80 million Americans go camping each year! The possibilities and potential experiences are endless.
Each of the campgrounds on this list were also ranked No. 1 or No. 2 in the Best Places to Camp regional awards that we announced back in May.
We’ve also included reviews, reactions, and recommendations from actual campers on The Dyrt who have visited each campground on our list. They’ve been out in the desert, nestled in the woods, up in the mountains, and down by the water. Our community has its finger on the pulse of the entire camping landscape.
There are thousands of amazing campgrounds across the U.S. to choose from, but these are truly remarkable. These are the best places to camp!
1. Denali National Park — Alaska
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Shari G
Location: Denali Park, AK
Campground Details
- Price: $33.25
- Number of sites: 53
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Located in the foothills of America’s tallest peak, Denali National Park Teklanika River Campground provides visitors with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is located in a remote area, surrounded by pristine wilderness and offering visitors a chance to connect with nature in a way that is becoming increasingly rare.
The campground offers a range of activities nearby such as fishing and wildlife viewing. It is also the starting point for many popular hiking trails, additional backcountry camping, and bus trips elsewhere in the park. Denali National Park is a special destination that offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse of Alaska’s natural beauty.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Looking for jaw-dropping scenery and untouched beauty, then look no more than Teklanika River. With vast thick wooded areas surrounding you the lure of the wild will keep you wanting more.” — Lisa S.
“Incredible location with long views of snow-topped mountains, long sloping hillsides, and spruce forest. Wildlife all around: Moose, bears, snowshoe hares, ground squirrels, lynx, and more.” — Tommy J.
“My husband and I stayed here in a rented RV for the most memorable camping experience of my life. The kids used our site as a base camp of familial safety for their backcountry permitted camping excursions.” — Marisa A.
2. Voyageurs National Park — Minnesota
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Shari G
Location: International Falls, MN
Campground Details
- Price: $20
- Number of sites: 161
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
It’s a water-world of sorts. All campsites require travel by water to access. There are 147 reservable frontcountry sites located on four of Voyageurs’ large lakes. The 14 backcountry sites are more remote and require a miles-long hike after the watercraft drop-off. Some of those sites still need a final canoe ride following the hike!
While exploring Voyageurs National Park and its 2.8 billion-year-old bedrock — some of the oldest exposed rock in the world — you can hike along 52 miles of scenic trails. Or if you prefer to explore while floating, you can use a kayak, canoe, sailboat, motorboat, houseboat or tour boat.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Our campsite was beautiful! Boated out 17 miles to our own island with a dock provided. The camping pads made setting up the tents 10x easier and more organized. The lake water was refreshing and there were so many places to boat to for hiking, cliff jumping, and especially fishing. Had an absolute blast!” — Samantha
“It was incredible. The views were stunning and it was easy to get our boat in and out of a small cove behind our site. There are two tent pads but we found a couple of other spots on nearby trails where you could set up a tent if you had a bigger group. My favorite feature of our site was a rock ledge that looked out over the water.” — Marisa D
3. Palo Duro Canyon State Park — Texas
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Brian V
Location: Canyon, TX
Campground Details
- Price: $12-$26
- Number of sites: 80
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the nation and it’s located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Campsite choices include tent, equestrian or backpack camping areas. There are three cabins on the canyon’s rim and four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor.
Outdoor activities include horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking on more than 30 miles of trails. Spending your time geocaching, birdwatching or just soaking in the natural surroundings. During the summer, enjoy a live performance of TEXAS Outdoor Musical. There are also pavilions to rent for weddings, reunions, or meetings.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This park is just beautiful! The multiple campgrounds are all good. Many with electric and water. Bathrooms clean. Everything (is) well maintained. Multiple hiking trails to explore on. Very steep and curvy main road through the park. Be ready! But it’s worth it!” — Mary
“Took a chance on this SP based on state guidebook. Hard to believe there is a natural canyon in Texas!” — Kenneth M
4. Goblin Valley State Park — Utah
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Steven M
Location: Green River, UT
Campground Details
- Price: $45
- Number of sites: 25
- RV sites: N
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Goblin Valley State Park’s main attraction is the labyrinth of hoodoos, or “goblins,” which are rock formations that have been formed over millions of years by erosion. These hoodoos are scattered throughout the park, and they create an otherworldly landscape that makes Goblin Valley State Park one of the most picturesque places to camp in the United States.
The park has traditional campsites, yurts, and RV sites. These accommodations provide a comfortable and convenient base from which visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Goblin Valley State Park is great for hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. Furthermore, the park’s location is ideal for day trips to nearby attractions such as Capitol Reef National Park and the San Rafael Swell.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This place is so cool! Truly never seen anything like it. Tent sights are great and nestled in the rocks.” — Alyssa L
“Goblin Valley is like you’re visiting another planet!” — Leslie M
“Words cannot do this place justice. It’s a bit off the main highway and mostly locals know about it. You can climb all over the hoodoos. There’s even a disc golf course!” — Jordan R
5. Many Glacier Campground — Montana
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Teresa B
Location: Browning, MT
Campground Details
- Price: $23
- Number of sites: 109
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Located in the heart of Glacier National Park, this campground is surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and pristine forests. Its scenic setting provides campers with endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and photography. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Many Glacier Campground offers both tent and RV sites, as well as rustic cabins for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience. It is also well-equipped with modern amenities, such as running water, restrooms, and picnic areas. The campground offers easy access to many of the park’s popular attractions, including the Grinnell Glacier Trailhead and the Many Glacier Hotel. Whether you are an experienced camper or a first-time visitor, Many Glacier Campground is a special place to experience one of America’s most beautiful national parks.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Many Glacier is an essential stop when visiting Glacier, and this campground made a great home base.” — Austin C
“This spot is incredibly beautiful, surrounded by picturesque mountainscapes with glaciers visible from the campsites. The campground has a spacious and friendly vibe.” — Stephanie V
“When you stay at Many Glacier you are situated in the heart of the best hiking and wildlife viewing in the park.” — Chris R
6. Alabama Hills Recreation Area — California
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Charles G
Location: Lone Pine, CA
Campground Details
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: N
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Alabama Hills Recreation Area has stunning natural beauty and is a geological wonderland. Known for its dramatic rock formations that rise from the desert floor, creating a maze of canyons, arches, and spires, Alabama Hills is also home to several hiking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the unique geology and observe the local flora and fauna.
The remoteness and mostly clear skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing. Visitors can set up camp and enjoy a breathtaking show courtesy of the Milky Way galaxy and its shooting stars and other celestial objects from their front-row seat betwixt the Sierra Nevada and Inyo Mountains.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This place felt straight out of a movie (which is funny because there was a sign saying many were filmed there)” — Taylor B
“This place is a dream. Free dispersed camping anywhere you see, & pretty well-maintained dirt roads throughout. The landscape is just beyond beautiful and the area is so big to explore.” — S E
“This is such a beautiful area. Take some extra water and spend some time exploring this place. The rocks give me Joshua Tree vibes and the views of Whitney are incredible.” — Alyssa L
7. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Backcountry Sites — Michigan
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Anna C
Location: Munising, MI
Campground Details
- Price: $20
- Number of sites: 100+, plus dispersed
- RV sites: N
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: N
What makes it great:
Forests, dunes, beaches, solitude, great views, and inspiration are all connected by nearly 100 miles of trails at Pictured Rocks. The country’s first national lakeshore winds along the southern side of Lake Superior and is a prime spot no matter the season.
Summer’s a no-brainer; that’s the time for beaches and boats. Fall brings out the foliage and plenty of opportunities for hunting and fishing. Winter’s freeze turns waterfalls into curtains, fishing into ice fishing, and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing become the official mode of transit. Spring’s thaw brings out the birds and the birdwatchers!
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Hiking the Pictured Rocks is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Get away from the crowds and see the beauty of this place! When we were there, we had most of the campground to ourselves! It really is a breathtaking experience and overall, not that hard of a hike!” — Ashleigh M
“This site is the epitome of what many imagine Pictured Rocks camping to look like. The site is situated along Lake Superior with beach access and dramatic views. It serves as the perfect base camp for shoreline exploring & can be accessed by a moderately difficult hike. I’d recommend bringing warm clothes, even when visiting in mid-summer, as the wind blowing offshore has a chill to it.” — Anna C
8. Cathedral Pines Campground — Maine
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Ken B
Location: Eustis, ME
Campground Details
- Price: $37-$45
- Number of sites: 115
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Cathedral Pines Campground is nestled deep in the Maine woods just 26 miles from the Canadian border and, as the name would imply, is surrounded by forests of tall red pine. Campers can enjoy the numerous hiking trails, fishing in nearby Flagstaff Lake, or simply relaxing in a quintessentially Maine setting.
Recreational opportunities include canoeing and kayaking, taking a dip in the campground’s swimming pond, or playing volleyball or horseshoes. Sugarloaf Mountain Golf Course is also nearby.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Cathedral Pines is claimed to be one of the most beautiful campgrounds by people all around the country.” — Carla
“What an incredible campground! Very quiet, at least in Sept. Very, very clean. Our huge site on the water was raked clean before we arrived. I said “huge,” other campgrounds would have made 3 sites from the one we had.” — Kevin W
“I am partial to waterfront sites because I love being the first up to start coffee and watch the sun rise and morning break. I’ve also stayed inside the campground more away from the water and have no complaints. All the facilities are meticulously cleaned and the staff are amazing!” — David G
9. Cherokee Rock Village — Alabama
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Brianna L
Location: Leesburg, AL
Campground Details
- Price: $0-$35
- Number of sites: More than 100 primitive sites and 15 RV sites
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Cherokee Rock Village is perched atop Lookout Mountain and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rock formations, including sandstone cliffs, boulders, and rock spires, attract climbers and hikers from all over the country. The park also features several hiking trails, including a 4.6-mile loop trail that leads visitors through the rock formations with views of the valley below.
A peaceful and secluded setting, Cherokee Rock Village is primitive camping at its finest, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the outdoors. The campsites are located in a wooded area that is an ideal tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This is a really great place to rock climb! They have RV hookups, tent camping, and primitive camping! I recommend to try and camp under an overhang! It’s just really cool. There’s also a really easy climb to overlook Weiss Lake! We were literally among the clouds!” — Shea M
“This place blew me away!! Campsites are only $10 for the night which is truly a bargain when you see what you get. The campground is used mainly for rock climbing and the rock formations are incredible. You are way up on a mountain and the views are spectacular. You can pick a spot right next to a mountain rock or pick a spot with views for miles and miles that are breathtaking.” — Danielle L
10. Keuka Lake State Park — New York
Photo via The Dyrt camper: Rebecca E
Location: Keuka Park, NY
Campground Details
- Price: $18-$25
- Number of sites: 150
- RV sites: Y
- Fires allowed: Y
- Pets allowed: Y
What makes it great:
Keuka Lake State Park is a sought-after spot in the Finger Lakes wine country in upstate New York. Vineyard-covered slopes, glimmering water, and clear blue sky set the scene for the perfect escape. Keuka is one of the warmer Finger Lakes and is an ideal place for swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Keuka Lake State Park is also a great destination for a range of outdoor recreational activities including hiking, swimming, boating, and, of course, fishing. The lake is considered one of the best places to fish in upstate New York.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“The sites are all super spacious and private. The lake and picnic areas are just amazing. We stayed for a week and honestly didn’t want to leave.” — David S
“This was our first time at the park and we will definitely be back! The lake temperature was perfect for taking a swim. It is a beautiful lake and campground.” — Laura C
“Perfect place to drop your boat in and play in the water. The lake offers many options for any type of boat.” — Karen G
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Source: https://thedyrt.com/magazine/local/top-10-best-places-to-camp-in-the-u-s-2023/
