Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Oregon
Nestled between the borders of Oregon and Idaho, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area offers a spectacular escape into nature’s untouched beauty. This rugged landscape is home to North America’s deepest river gorge, the Snake River, which carves through the canyon’s rocky walls. Camping here is an adventure, where you can pitch a tent by the riverside and watch the stars fill the night sky. Hiking trails abound, and each one offers a different perspective of the dramatic terrain. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the sightings of bighorn sheep, elk, and maybe even a bear. For those who love water activities, rafting down the Snake River is a thrilling way to explore the canyon’s hidden corners. Hells Canyon is not just a place; it’s an experience of nature’s grandeur.
French Creek, Medicine Bow National Forest, Wyoming
Tucked away in Wyoming’s vast Medicine Bow National Forest, French Creek is a serene haven for campers seeking solitude. The gentle babble of the creek provides a soothing backdrop as you set up camp amidst towering pines and verdant meadows. The area is a paradise for anglers, with the creek teeming with trout ready to test your fishing skills. Hiking trails wind through the forest, offering glimpses of stunning vistas and the chance to spot wildlife like deer and moose. At night, the lack of light pollution makes for a mesmerizing stargazing experience. French Creek is a place where time slows down, allowing you to reconnect with nature and find peace in the quietude of the wilderness.
Blue Spruce Campground, Dixie National Forest, Utah
In the heart of Utah’s Dixie National Forest lies the tranquil Blue Spruce Campground, an idyllic spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by the majestic blue spruce trees that give the campground its name, this campsite is perfect for both tent and RV camping. The air is crisp and fragrant with the scent of pine, creating a refreshing atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails lead you through the forest, revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the diverse avian species that call this area home. Whether you’re sitting by a campfire or exploring the trails, Blue Spruce Campground offers a serene escape into nature’s embrace.
Donaho Basin, Wrangell St. Elias National Park, Alaska
For those seeking the ultimate wilderness adventure, Donaho Basin in Alaska’s Wrangell St. Elias National Park is a destination unlike any other. This remote area is accessible only by foot or bush plane, ensuring a secluded experience far from the hustle of civilization. Camping here means immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Alaska’s vast landscapes, with towering mountains, glacial rivers, and dense forests surrounding you. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. Hikers can explore trails that lead to breathtaking vistas and hidden lakes. Wildlife sightings are common, with bears, moose, and eagles often making an appearance. Donaho Basin is a true wilderness escape, offering an unparalleled connection to nature’s untamed beauty.
Bear Glacier, Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Situated in the pristine Kenai Fjords National Park, Bear Glacier is a stunning destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts. The glacier’s icy expanse creates a dramatic backdrop for camping, with the sound of calving ice echoing through the fjord. Kayaking is a popular activity here, allowing you to paddle alongside towering icebergs and explore hidden coves. The area is rich in wildlife, with seals, sea otters, and even orcas often spotted in the waters. Hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the glacier and surrounding mountains, providing a unique perspective on this icy wonderland. Camping at Bear Glacier is a chance to witness the power and beauty of nature in one of Alaska’s most spectacular settings.
Picnic Key Beach, Everglades National Park, Florida
For a unique camping experience, head to Picnic Key Beach in Florida’s Everglades National Park. This remote beach is accessible only by boat, ensuring a secluded getaway surrounded by the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico. The soft sands and gentle waves create a tranquil setting for camping, with the sound of the ocean lulling you to sleep. Kayaking and fishing are popular activities, offering the chance to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and catch glimpses of its unique wildlife. The sunsets here are nothing short of spectacular, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Picnic Key Beach is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape into the natural beauty of Florida’s coastline.
Cathedral Valley Campground, Capitol Reef National Park, Utah
In the heart of Utah’s Capitol Reef National Park, Cathedral Valley Campground offers a breathtaking camping experience amidst dramatic desert landscapes. The campground is named for the towering sandstone monoliths that rise like cathedrals from the desert floor, creating a stunning backdrop for your outdoor adventure. The area is renowned for its striking geological formations, including the iconic Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon. Hiking trails wind through the valley, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and canyons. The lack of light pollution makes for incredible stargazing, with the Milky Way stretching across the night sky. Cathedral Valley is a place of awe-inspiring beauty, where the silence of the desert allows you to truly connect with the natural world.
Cherokee Rock Village, Alabama
Perched atop Lookout Mountain in Alabama, Cherokee Rock Village is a hidden gem for campers and rock climbers alike. The village is known for its unique rock formations, which provide a natural playground for climbers of all skill levels. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping vistas of the valley below and the distant mountains. Camping here offers a peaceful retreat, with the chance to wake up to stunning sunrises and the sounds of nature. Hiking trails meander through the area, providing opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna that call this place home. Whether you’re scaling the rocks or simply enjoying the serenity of the surroundings, Cherokee Rock Village is a place that inspires adventure and tranquility.
Loyalsock State Forest, Pennsylvania
Nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, Loyalsock State Forest is a haven for nature lovers and campers seeking a quiet escape. The forest is known for its lush greenery, with miles of hiking trails winding through its dense woodlands and along the scenic Loyalsock Creek. Camping here offers a chance to immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, with the gentle rustle of leaves and the chirping of birds as your soundtrack. The area is a paradise for anglers, with the creek teeming with fish ready to be caught. In the fall, the forest transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, making it a perfect time for a camping trip. Loyalsock State Forest is a place where you can unwind and reconnect with the natural world.
Hoop Lake, Utah
Located in the Uinta Mountains of Utah, Hoop Lake is a serene destination for campers seeking solitude and natural beauty. The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, creating a picturesque setting for camping and outdoor recreation. Fishing is a popular activity here, with the lake stocked with trout that are eager to bite. Hiking trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a perfect backdrop for an adventurous day. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and the occasional bear. Hoop Lake is a peaceful retreat where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
McDowell Mountain Regional Park, Arizona
In the heart of the Sonoran Desert, McDowell Mountain Regional Park offers a unique camping experience amidst the stunning desert landscapes of Arizona. The park is known for its diverse flora and fauna, with towering saguaro cacti and vibrant wildflowers painting the landscape. Camping here provides a chance to explore the park’s extensive network of hiking and biking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes, javelinas, and a wide range of bird species. As the sun sets, the desert comes alive with the sounds of nature, creating a magical atmosphere for stargazing under the clear Arizona skies. McDowell Mountain Regional Park is a place where the beauty of the desert comes to life.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is a must-visit destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking mountain landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park is known for its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and lush valleys, creating a stunning backdrop for camping and outdoor activities. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering panoramic views of the Teton Range and opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose, elk, and bears. The park’s lakes and rivers provide excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere for camping. Grand Teton National Park is a place where the beauty of nature takes center stage, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
Located in the heart of New England, White Mountain National Forest is a paradise for campers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat amidst stunning natural beauty. The forest is known for its rugged mountains, dense woodlands, and scenic rivers, creating a diverse landscape for camping and outdoor activities. Hiking trails traverse the forest, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and a wide range of bird species. In the fall, the forest transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, making it a perfect time for a camping trip. White Mountain National Forest is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Alabama Hills, California
Nestled at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Alabama Hills in California is a stunning destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a unique desert landscape. The area is known for its dramatic rock formations, which have served as a backdrop for numerous films and TV shows. Camping here offers a chance to explore the area’s hiking trails, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep and a wide range of bird species. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere for stargazing under the clear desert skies. Alabama Hills is a place where the beauty of the desert comes to life.
Lee Vining, California
Located near the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park, Lee Vining is a charming town that serves as a gateway to some of California’s most stunning natural landscapes. The town is known for its proximity to Mono Lake, a unique saltwater lake surrounded by otherworldly tufa formations. Camping here offers a chance to explore the area’s hiking trails, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and a wide range of bird species. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, creating a magical atmosphere for stargazing under the clear California skies. Lee Vining is a place where the beauty of nature takes center stage, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
A master of contemporary design, Bobby Burke brings a fresh perspective to home styling. His book Effortless Interiors offers readers a roadmap to achieving sleek, functional, and beautiful spaces with ease.