Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature, unwind from daily stresses, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or planning your first trip, knowing the best spots to park your RV can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top camping destinations across the U.S., share tips on what to expect, and provide resources to help you plan your perfect outdoor adventure.
What Makes the United States Great for Camping?
The United States offers an incredibly diverse range of camping experiences—from rugged mountain trails and serene lakeside spots to vast deserts and lush forests. According to the U.S. Forest Service, there are over 264,861 national park public RV campground spots nationwide, and 164,424 state park RV sites. Making it easy to find a location that suits your preferences, and desired local activities. This is not including private campgrounds which are around 1,400,000 spots.
Top Camping Regions to Explore
1. The Pacific Northwest
Known for its towering evergreens, misty coastlines, and vibrant wildlife, the Pacific Northwest is a camper’s dream. Places like Olympic National Park in Washington offer diverse ecosystems and plenty of established campsites. You can explore moss-covered trails or enjoy beach camping near the Pacific Ocean.
2. The Rocky Mountains
The Rockies stretch across several states including Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana. Campgrounds around Rocky Mountain National Park and Glacier National Park provide breathtaking views, abundant hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife spotting. Remember to prepare for sudden weather changes typical of mountainous areas.
3. The Southeast
The Southeast boasts warmer climates and unique landscapes such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the Everglades. Campgrounds here often offer a mix of forested areas and water access, perfect for activities like kayaking, birdwatching, and swimming.
Essential Tips for Planning Your Camping Trip
- Reserve Early: Popular campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Check availability 3 to 5 months in advance on official websites or trusted platforms.
- Pack Smart: Bring weather-appropriate gear, sufficient food and water, and safety essentials such as a first-aid kit and maps.
- Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment for future visitors.
Resources to Help You Plan
To find detailed information about camping sites, check out our RV Blog and Tips page, where we provide guides on gear, safety tips, and campground reviews. For inspiration on specific destinations, visit our Best Camping Spots section, featuring curated lists and insider tips.
Additionally, the National Park Service’s official site (nps.gov) is a reliable source for campground details, permits, and regulations.
Final Thoughts
Camping allows you to experience the vast beauty of the United States in a unique and personal way. By exploring different regions and preparing thoughtfully, you can enjoy safe, memorable outdoor trips year-round. Whether you prefer the rugged wilderness of the Rockies or the tranquil shores of the Southeast, there’s a perfect campsite waiting for you.
Ready to start planning? Dive into our Camping Basics guide to get everything you need to know before your next adventure.
References
U.S. RV “spots” (sites) — public vs private
State parks (public)
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Total state-park RV sites: 166,424 RVIA
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Average RV sites per state-park RV campground: ~82.5 (166,424 ÷ 2,018 state RV campgrounds) RVIA
National parks (public, NPS only)
There isn’t a clean, single published number in the same dataset snapshot for NPS-only RV sites (it’s reported more cleanly for all federal agencies combined). The RVIA report does show:
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NPS averages ~52 campsites per campground (all campsite types, not just RV) RVIA+1
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NPS is ~4.7% of public campgrounds and ~6.2% of public campsites RVIA+1
Using those same report totals to estimate NPS-only RV sites:
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Public total campsites = 607,014 and public RV sites = 264,861 → ~43.6% of public sites are RV sites RVIA
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NPS campsites ≈ 6.2% × 607,014 ≈ 37,600 campsites RVIA
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Estimated NPS RV sites ≈ 43.6% × 37,600 ≈ ~16,000 RV sites (rough estimate, not a directly reported figure) RVIA+1
Private campgrounds (private)
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Total private RV sites: 1,400,000 RVIA
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Average RV sites per private RV campground: ~116 RVIA
(For context, the same RVIA report pegs total private campsites at 1,520,000 across all site types.) RVIA+1