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The great outdoors is calling, and car camping is the perfect way to answer that call.
Camping is a great way to explore the outdoors, and car camping gives you the flexibility to go wherever you want without having to carry all of your gear. Whether you’re looking for a remote spot in the wilderness or a place close to home, there are plenty of amazing car camping destinations throughout the United States that are perfect for your next adventure.
Related: Top 10 Car Camping Essentials For Beginners
Here are 11 of our favorite car camping destinations in the USA that offer breathtaking views, plenty of activities and amenities, and everything else you need for an unforgettable adventure.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
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Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in the US, and it’s easy to see why—from its towering granite peaks to its lush forests, Yosemite is truly a sight to behold. With 13 campgrounds located throughout the park that offer more than 1600 campsites, Yosemite is a great destination for car camping. You can also enjoy breathtaking hikes, bike rides, and even horseback riding while exploring this incredible park.
Related: How to car camp in Yosemite National Park?
2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
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Grand Teton National Park offers some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the US. There are 12 campgrounds located within the park with over 500 sites available for car camping. There are also plenty of activities to choose from such as hiking and fishing on Jackson Lake or boating on String Lakes. You can also take advantage of ranger-led programs for an even more immersive experience.
Related: Can You Sleep in Your Car in Grand Teton National Park?
3. Acadia National Park, Maine
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Acadia is one of Maine's most iconic attractions—and it's no wonder why! With its rocky coastlines and stunning landscapes, Acadia is truly a sight to behold. There are four campgrounds located within the park which offer over 300 sites perfect for car camping trips; there's something here for everyone whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous hike up one of Acadia's many trails!
4. Zion National Park, Utah
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Zion National Park offers some of the most breathtaking views in all of America—from red rock cliffs towering above emerald pools to cascading waterfalls plunging into deep ravines below—this place will definitely leave you speechless! With two campgrounds offering nearly 200 sites perfect for car camping, Zion is sure not disappoint! Between all the hiking trails and amazing vistas this park has to offer—you won't be short on things to do here!
5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
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Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some truly spectacular views—from snow-capped peaks soaring above alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers below—this place will make anyone feel like they stepped right into paradise! With five campground options offering over 400 sites perfect for car camping trips—you won't have any problem finding just what you're looking for here! From hiking trails leading up mountain peaks to fishing along rivers below—Rocky Mountain has something special waiting around every corner!
6. Olympic National Park, Washington
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This park on the Olympic Peninsula is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. With its old-growth rainforests, rugged coastline, and towering mountains, there is something for everyone. Drive your car to one of the park's car camping sites and spend your days exploring the park's many trails and waterways.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
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Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, this national park is home to stunning views, cascading waterfalls, and a wide variety of plant and animal life. Drive your car to one of the park's drive-in campsites and spend your days hiking, fishing, or simply taking in the beauty of this special place.
8. Arches National Park, Utah
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Located in eastern Utah, Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. Set up camp at one of the park's drive-in campsites and spend your days hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the beauty of this unique landscape.
9. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
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Located just a few hours from Washington D.C., Shenandoah National Park is a popular destination for city dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Set up camp at one of the park's drive-in campsites and spend your days hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
10. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Photo by Joshua Peacock on Unsplash
This national park in Washington state is home to Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano and the highest mountain in the state. Set up camp at one of the park's drive-in campsites and spend your days hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the beauty of this special place.
11. Joshua Tree National Park, California
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Located in southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its unique rock formations and diverse plant and animal life. Set up camp at one of the park's drive-in campsites and spend your days hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the beauty of this unique landscape.
Conclusion
No matter where your travels take you across America’s beautiful landscape, there’s sure to be a great spot near by that offers everything needed for an unforgettable car camping trip – from breathtaking views & outdoor activities like hiking & biking – these 11 destinations have it all! So grab your tent & sleeping bag & get ready for an adventure beyond anything imaginable – because these places really know how make outdoor living easy & enjoyable!
Happy (car) camping everyone!
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