Did you know that 61% of the US population is active campers? Popular research suggested that in 2018 about 1.4 million households camped for the first time. This healthy camping trend in the woods or by the countryside is not restricted to the USA only. Globally, camping and outdoor hospitality is a flourishing industry in its own right.
However, the principal reason why camping is such a significant hit with the US population is the sense of thrill it gives. Camping provides the perfect escape from the dreary routine of the workaholic life. As a result, the following list is a sure way to help you look for exciting camping options.
Acadia National Park, Maine
With 17 million acres of pine forest, Maine is your Pine Tree State for a reason. The 6,000 ponds and lakes, as well as the 32,000 miles of riverine scenery, are enough to qualify it as a camper’s paradise.
Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island and is an ideal destination for any nature-loving camper. Key attractions at the camping site include a hiking trail to the top of Cadillac Mountain for spectacular sunrises. The Blackwoods campground is one of the three designated camping spots in the area and is open all year round.
Though visitors can hike through the entire park, camping is only permitted in the designated areas. People who want to camp here between December to March need a permit from the authorities, but there is no fee charged during these three months.
Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont
The Long Trail of Green Mountain National Forest is one of the main reasons nature lovers are favorite camping spots.
The long winding roads nestled between the green mountains are one of the biggest attractions here. The Green Mountain National Park boasts of a 270-mile-long oldest distance trail of America. There are five developed campgrounds where you can pitch your tent and unplug.
There are no dumping stations or electrical hookups in the area. But who wants to bring their virtual world to the natural one? Travelers must be prepared and find out which campsite is functioning at which time of the year, beforehand from the official website.
Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland, USA
The 2019 North America Camping Report suggested that camping is extremely popular among the younger generation. For the millennial crowd that loves beach camping, Assateague Island is the spot for you. It is a barrier island with exotic sandy beaches, great salt marshes, forests, and coastal bays.
Located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia, USA, this popular camping spot has a wild horses community and offers a 37-mile beach hike if you prefer it. It is also one of the key attractions for those willing to go horse camping at two designated campsites. Campers can pitch their tent from 16th November through 14th March for a beach night under the stars and by the waves. Though the park is open all year round, you must make your reservations from 15th March to 15th November.
Denali Nationa Park, Alaska
This park is centered around Mount McKinley, which also happens to be North America’s tallest peak. The 6 million acres of open land and unbelievable scenic beauty invite hikers of all experience levels. Most trails start near the Visitor Centre, but a few trails start deeper inside the park, mostly for seasoned hikers.
There are six established campgrounds and 291 campsites with a free permit. Though mostly seasonal, yet a specific part of the park manages to stay open all year round. However, generally, the park is open sometime in mid-April. One campground is open year-round without any fees charged in the winter.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, California, USA
Big Sur has been one of the prolific hotspots to inspire writers and artists with its enchanting view and mesmerizing scenic location. Big Sur is located about 140 miles from San Francisco along Highway One. This state park is located on the Santa Lucia Mountains, specifically on the western slope. Pfeiffer campsite is in Big Sur, whereas the key attraction is a short drive or hike away. The Pfeiffer Alcove Beach though not a part of the park is a major attraction, but there is a separate entry fee for access.
Campers can easily pitch their tent across the Big Sur River for the best views. There are nearly 180 campsites for tents and RVs, including two sites for group tents and a hike/bike site.
Conclusion
An essential part of camping is to make sure that others can enjoy it as well as you do. Therefore, it is a crucial caveat that you follow the rules and minimize your plastic waste. Preserve the aesthetics of your campsite for others by minimal littering.
Featured Image Credits: Pixabay
