Explore America’s Top National Park Campgrounds

As America reflects on its rich history, it’s important to recognize the stunning natural beauty found across the country. Several campgrounds are nestled within landscapes that have been federally protected for over a century. These offer unique opportunities to experience the nation’s natural wonders.

A Historic Beginning

Yosemite Valley was preserved under the Yosemite Grant when President Abraham Lincoln signed it into law in June 1864. Yosemite National Park officially came into being in 1890, well before many other iconic national parks were established in the 20th century.

James Kaiser, an author of national park guidebooks, emphasizes that each featured campground provides a distinct way to appreciate America’s natural environment. Several campgrounds are known for easy access to hiking, wildlife watching, and magnificent scenery.

Top Campgrounds in America

1. North Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park

North Pines Campground is among three in Yosemite Valley that accept reservations. Known for its waterfalls, granite cliffs, deep valleys, and giant sequoias, campsites often sell out rapidly. The site is near the Merced River, ideal for rafting. Other activities include hiking, biking, climbing, horseback riding, fishing, and photography.

2. Mather Campground, Grand Canyon National Park

Located near the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Mather Campground offers panoramic views. The campground features 327 sites, each with a campfire ring, picnic table, parking space, and room for up to six people. Facilities include flush toilets and drinking water, but no hook-ups or electricity. Fifteen sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis daily at 8 a.m.

3. Watchman Campground, Zion National Park

Near the Virgin River, Watchman Campground provides access to hiking trails, biking, ranger programs, photography, and stargazing. Situated under tall sandstone cliffs, the site offers a dramatic backdrop, especially during sunrise and sunset. Visitors can also cool off in the river nearby.

4. Many Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park

This campground resides in Glacier National Park, close to Browning, Montana. Known for hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing, and fishing, it is set amid mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests. The site includes Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and quaking aspen trees, offering partial shade. Be aware of potential strong wind gusts despite some tree cover.

5. Blackwoods Campground, Acadia National Park

Located in Maine’s Acadia National Park, Blackwoods Campground is the only national park in New England. Its setting on Mount Desert Island gives access to mountains, lakes, streams, wetlands, forests, meadows, and beaches. All sites are wooded and within a short walk to the ocean. Popular activities include coastal walks, mountain hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, and narrated boat cruises.

America’s national park campgrounds offer splendid opportunities to engage with towering mountains, deep valleys, lush forests, and breathtaking coastlines.