During this summer, while everyone else is struggling to secure a highly desired campsite in state and national parks throughout the country, there is a significant amount of public land that remains accessible for your pleasure. The US federal government possesses more than 640 million acres, which accounts for over a quarter of the nation’s landmass, and a substantial portion of it is accessible for your utilization and enjoyment, with the crucial responsibility of preserving its well-being.
When camping in these areas, it typically involves dispersed camping, which refers to camping in areas not specifically designated as campgrounds. You have the option to set up a tent or park your van overnight on lands managed by either the U.S. Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), as long as dispersed camping is allowed in those locations. We have included this type of camping option whenever it is available. Additionally, in certain states, we have emphasized primitive campgrounds, which are developed sites with limited amenities and do not require advance reservations.
Acadia National Park
Experiencing one of the finest National Parks on the East Coast, camping in Acadia National Park is an amazing opportunity. It is situated on the northeastern coast of Maine and offers breathtaking views of the untamed ocean and magnificent sights.
Sleeping directly underneath the light of thousands of stars in Acadia’s dark skies at night is an unparalleled experience.
The Blackwoods Campground is the primary campground in Acadia, situated in the central region of the park on Mount Desert Island and only a few miles from the nearby town of Bar Harbor. The campsites provide ample privacy, shade, firepits, and are conveniently within a brief stroll from the ocean.
To properly experience all that Acadia has to offer, it is recommended to allocate a minimum of two days. Key attractions include witnessing the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, discovering Jordan Pond, unwinding at Sand Beach, and exploring the extensive network of carriage roads. Acadia also presents an excellent opportunity to admire the vibrant autumn foliage.
Fremont-Winema National Forest
Forest Road 960, located in Fremont-Winema National Forest, is just a few miles away from the northern entrance to Crater Lake National Park. Along this road, camping is permitted in designated sites, but larger vehicles such as RVs or trailers are advised to stay within the initial few sites. If you possess a four-wheel drive vehicle with higher clearance, you can continue on the uneven dirt road towards Summit Rock, which offers expansive views from the peak. (If you are unable to drive the entire way, it is recommended to hike up the road to witness the view.) Camping is a popular activity here during the summer months. However, if all the camping spots are occupied, there are additional campgrounds and dispersed zones available in the surrounding area.
Olympic National Forest
Camping is not permitted in Olympic National Park, but it is permitted in Olympic National Forest, which is located near the entrance to the national park. You can visit the scenic and quiet roadside spots off Quinault Ridge Road (also known as Forest Road 2258), just off Highway 101 north of Aberdeen. Within the first mile of the road, there are a few of these spots available. If you are driving an extra-large vehicle, turning around may be difficult, so it is recommended to choose your campsite wisely or consider going to another area, such as Forest Road 29, near Forks.
Watkins Glen State Park Six Nation Campground
One can experience the joy of the outdoors by camping at Watkins Glen State Park Six Nation Campground, which is situated in the picturesque Finger Lakes region and is known as one of the most renowned State Parks in New York.
There will be a multitude of stunning hiking trails, wineries, numerous waterfalls, and additional marvelous New York state parks surrounding you.
In just a few minutes, you can start hiking along the breathtaking Gorge Trail, where you will be able to appreciate the spectacular cliffs and numerous remarkable waterfalls of Watkins Glen. Additionally, make sure to include a visit to the picturesque Seneca Lake in your itinerary.
Unforgettable experiences for people of all ages can be found here. One can choose to explore the lake by boat or kayak, or alternatively, indulge in the unique Seneca Lake Wine Trail which is home to 31 wineries.
Just a little ways ahead, approximately 30 minutes away, you can have the pleasure of visiting two additional state parks in New York.
Chena River State Recreation Area
Alaska is known for its vastness and abundance of public land, making the options for dispersed camping seemingly endless. It may seem a bit pointless to choose the absolute best spot in such a place. However, there is a destination outside Fairbanks that is sure to please. Chena Hot Springs Road offers three established campgrounds, but if you prefer, you can also explore the various dirt pullouts and roads along the Chena River within Chena River State Recreation Area. If you’re looking for specific information about the pullouts, iOverlander can provide detailed descriptions. This area is especially ideal for witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights, and conveniently, the Chena Hot Springs, a geothermal resort, is in close proximity.
Spencer Hot Springs, Austin
If you’re looking to completely escape, camping in a remote location may be just what you need. And if you’re camping next to hot springs in the middle of nowhere, that takes it to the next level. Spencer Hot Springs is located on BLM land, approximately 20 miles outside of Austin, a town situated on U.S. Route 50, famously known as the Loneliest Highway in America. Along the dirt roads near the hot springs, you have the option to camp for free in designated areas, allowing easy access to the three natural and simple soaking tubs available. It is advised not to camp directly at the springs; you should instead set up your tent at least 300 feet away from any water source and proceed to walk to the tubs.
Mongaup Pond
Located in the Catskills region of New York, Mongaup Pond is considered one of the top destinations for tent camping on the East Coast.
During the summer, one of the most magical things to do is to explore the beautiful green oasis of Mongaup Pond, where there are numerous campsites available for camping. Additionally, there are hiking trails that go around the pond and extend to the surrounding areas.
The campground offers primitive campsites, which are ideal for car camping. Each campsite includes a grilling platform, and you have the option to buy local firewood directly at the site.
The campground has water filling stations spread out, and the restrooms are also kept in good condition.
The primary attraction of camping at Mongaup Pond is undoubtedly the ability to access the pond! Mongaup Pond boasts an extensive day use area, complete with numerous picnic tables and grilling stations.
White River National Forest
To reach Piney Lake from Vail, drive approximately 11 miles on a rough dirt road through exit 176 off Interstate 70. This journey typically takes around 45 minutes. As you enter White River National Forest, you will come across several dispersed camping sites along Piney River Road, near Piney River Ranch. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Piney River Ranch is a summer getaway that provides cabins for rent, situated close to the shores of Piney Lake with a splendid view of the Gore Range. When camping, ensure that you stay within designated areas and adhere to all posted signs. Additionally, consider embarking on a round-trip hike of approximately six miles from your camping site to reach Upper Piney Lake.
Bridger-Teton National Forest
This spot is no longer a secret as it gets crowded every day during the summer. However, if you manage to find a spot, you will be very happy. Shadow Mountain and Ditch Creek are situated in the approved dispersed camping areas of Bridger-Teton National Forest. These spots have designated roadside campsites that offer fantastic views of the Gros Ventre and Teton ranges. Additionally, they are located just outside of Grand Teton National Park. Due to the large number of visitors, a toilet facility has been installed in the area, and there are discussions about turning this zone into a paid campground in the future.
First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach, VA is considered one of the best camping spots on the East Coast. It is not only Virginia’s most popular state park, but also holds great historical significance as the place where the first colonists landed in the United States.
This park is amazing because it offers a range of options for overnight stays and provides access to both the beach and hiking trails right after waking up. Additionally, it is conveniently located near the main resort area of Virginia Beach, making it an ideal choice for families who want to camp in the area.
First Landing has more than 200 options for overnight camping. It offers three types of accommodation: camping plots, cabins, and yurts. The plots are suitable for tents and RVs, and the camping season begins in March and ends on the first weekend of December.
