Top US National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks to Visit

Zion National Park Campgrounds – Utah

Zion National Park is a relatively small park, located in southwest Utah and around a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, Nevada. It is most famous for its hikes, varying from easy to very challenging options. Among the most popular trails are Canyon Overlook, the Narrows Bottom Up, Angel’s Landing, and much much more.

Zion National Parks features some fantastic campgrounds.

South Campground

South Campground is the most popular campground in Zion National Park and the best spot to start Zion’s amazing hikes.

It has over 117 spacious campsites featuring fire pits, picnic tables, flush toilets as well as showers & a grocery store at the visitor center. South Campground is open from March to November and is within walking distance of the town of Springdale to visit shops or amenities.

Watchman Campground

Watchman Campground is the 2nd main campgrounds in Zion National Park and is within walking distance to Springdale, the visitor center, and shuttles to visit the park. Watchman Campgrounds offers some of the most amazing views Zion National Parks has to offer.

It’s a little bit larger than South Campground and has similar amenities like flush toilets, picnic tables, potable water, and an RV dumping station. It is open 365 days a year.

Zion River Resort RV Park

The Zion River Resort RV Park is an excellent choice if you are after a bit more comfort. It is located in the town of Virgin, which is around a 20-minute drive from Zion Park.

Zion River Resort RV Park offers a tad more of a “glamping” experience – especially great if you are traveling with kids. Amenities include full hooks, flush toilets, hot showers, picnic tables, fire rings, free wifi, laundry facilities, a pool, a convenience store, and seasonal shuttles to the park. We recommend making a reservation!

For more campsite in the Zion National park, please read our article “Top 6 Zion National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks”.

Joshua Tree National Park Campgrounds – California

Camping within Joshua Tree’s unique desert ecosystem is an experience like no other. Based in Southern California, it is the perfect destination for hikers & rock climbers!

The park features several National Park Service (also known as NPS) campgrounds, which are run by the government – perfect if you would like to sleep under the stars. Here are some of the best campsites in Joshua Tree National Park.

Jumbo Rocks Campground

Jumbo Rocks is centrally located & is nearby many great hiking trails and rock formations such as Skull Rock, Juniper Flats, and Pleasant Valley Trail – all within minutes of the campsite.

The campgrounds are run by the NPS and feature basic amenities such as toilets, picnic tables, and trash stations…heads up – no showers or toilets on site! The location is ideal to go back to nature and relax by a campfire without any distractions. It features 124 campsites and is very popular between September to May time.

Josh Tree Lake RV & Campground

Set within the desert of the landscape and only 15 minutes away from the national park, this is a great location to stay when visiting the national park (also ideal when visiting the Joshua Tree music festival!!).

Joshua Tree Lake Campground is a full-amenity campground featuring water & electric hookups, toilets, showers, fire pits, and dump stations – everything you need for a campground experience.

Black Rock Canyon Campground

Black Rock Canyon Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds and is ideal if you are after activities like hiking and horseback riding. Shopping facilities are only five miles away.

It comes with a variety of amenities like flush toilets, potable water, trash collections & dump stations. It has space for 99 tent & RV camping spots and is open 365 days a year.

Ryan Campground

Ryan Campground is in the center of the Joshua Tree desert with the most amazing views! Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, off-roading, horseback riding, and so much more.

It has limited amenities featuring fire rings, pit toilets & picnic tables. This campground is available for tent camping only and has a total of 31 sites. It is ideal for horse lovers as it is one of two equestrian-friendly campgrounds in the forest.

Looking for more? Read our “Top 8 Joshua Tree National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks” article and have an epic national park adventure.

Yosemite National Park Campgrounds – California

Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the USA among locals as well as international travelers. It is renowned for its giant sequoia trees, waterfalls, backcountry hiking as well as wildlife – black beers, deers, bobcats, and many more.

IMPORTANT – there are no hooks up inside the park, so you won’t be able to hook up your camper or RV to power or refill your water. We highly recommend booking these campgrounds 5 to 6 months in advance as they sell out very, very fast!

The Pines Campgrounds

The Pines Campgrounds consist of the Upper, Lower & North Pines are based directly in the valley – closed to the Curry village and major trailheads.

The Upper Pines Campground is the only Pines Campground, which is open 365 days a year while the North Pines Campground is a little bigger and more spacious yet only open from March to October.

All Pines Campgrounds include flashing toilets, bathrooms, and drinking water. You will find showers & groceries in Curry Village.

Tuolumne Meadows Campground

Tuolumne Meads Campground is the biggest in Yosemite National Park with over 300 sites. The campground is around a 90-minute drive from the valley and is the perfect base to explore the high Sierra as well as to start several day hikes.

Facilities include flushing toilets, bathrooms, and drinking water. There is also a small grocery store nearby. It is generally open from July to September, and half the campsite can be booked in advance while the other half is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bass Lake RV Park

Bass Lake RV Park is located 18 miles south of Yosemite National Park and is ideal for those who are looking for a little bit of extra comfort. It is a little bit more expensive than the ones in the park, yet it makes up in amenities!

Free wifi, TV cable, outdoor pool, kitchens, food court, children’s playgrounds, and a clubhouse are available at Bass Lake RV Park. Not too far away from the campgrounds, you can find restaurants, fuel & boat rentals.

Not enough? Check out our “7 Yosemite Campgrounds & RV Parks Worth Visiting” guide for your next Yosemite National Park visit.

Grand Canyon National Park Campgrounds – Arizona

The Grand Canyon is at the top of almost everyone’s bucket list and comes in at a massive 1.2 million acres in size. It is based in Arizona and around a 5 hours drive from Las Vegas.

Grand Canyon National Park showcases spectacular skies, unforgettable sunrises, and the unrivaled geographic scale of the American West.

Campgrounds can be booked out months in advance, so long-term planning is essential. We have done our homework and are presenting to you some of the best Grand Canyon Campgrounds.

Mather Campground

The campground is in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park and is well known for its privacy. It is very close to all the main facilities, including scenic overlooks, free shuttle bus system, visitor center, and hiking/walking trails.

It comes with lots of amenities, including campfire ring, picnic spaces, toilets, and showers. Within a 20 minute walk, you will find the Rim Trail, which is a paved walkway stretching 14-mile salon the edge of the canyon with the most amazing views!

North Rim Campground

Due to its distance from the Grand Canyon Village – the center of the Grand Canyon – this campsite tends to be much quieter and peaceful. It is home to a large amount of wildlife, hiking trails, and one of the best views of the Grand Canyon. The campground is surrounded by towering Ponderosa pines and Aspens, which turn a striking golden-yellow in early fall – best Instagram shot ever!!!

There are multiple trails for walks, hike & bicycle rides (the Bridle Trail is the only trail allowed for bikes in the Grand Canyon).

Facilities include picnic tables, coin-operated showers, laundry & toilets.

Trailer Village RV Park

Trailer Village is one of the most popular RV & campervan camping spots in the Grand Canyon. It is within a short walk of the Grand Canyon Village and gets booked out very very quickly! There is a free shuttle bus that runs where you can hop on and off along various highlights within the Grand Canyon.

Trailer Village RV Park offers full hooks up – electrical & water – and features dump stations, restrooms with toilets & showers, phone service, potable water, and general store. If you are traveling with an RV or camper, this is the perfect campsite for you.

Not enough? Find out more information about the best campgrounds in the Grand Canyon and plan your road trip today.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park Campgrounds – California

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks is a beautiful home to nature’s greatest marvels that seem to have stood still for the past few centuries. Giants fill these forests, dating back more than 2,000 years old.

There are a total of 7 campgrounds in both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, which bring in guests from all over the world. Each campsite offers a piece of its serenity and beauty, giving guests the perfect place for a camping experience!

Remember these book out very quickly – especially in summer often months in advance – so research & replanning is a must when staying at any of those campgrounds.

Lodgepole Campground

Lodgepole Campground is located within the heart of Sequoia National Park, making it readily accessible for a variety of outdoor adventures. The campground houses a visitor center, which can provide you with the necessary information you need to plan your day.

The campground is next to the popular Tokopah Valley Trail, which is an easy 4 miles round trip.

Lodgepole Campground does not provide electrical hookups; however, it does have flush toilets, fire rings, dump stations, picnic tables & showers.

Cold Springs Campground

Cold Springs Campground is located in one of the most remote areas within Sequoia National Park. It is a good 90 min drive yet makes up for quietness and covers the core of the Sequoia National Park.

The campsite is surrounded by various hikes, including the Eagle Lake Trail, which is a challenging 6.5-mile round-trip hike.

Cold Springs Campground houses 40 campsites, with 31 suitable for RV camping, and operates on a first-come-first-served basis. It offers basic amenities such as toilets picnic tables & food storage lockers. If you are after peace and “back to nature” experience, this is the right campsite for you!

Sunset Campground

Sunset Campground is the first campground when entering Kings Canyon National Park. It is close to the Grant Cove Village and situated at an elevation of 6,500 ft it will provide you with the most amazing views! It is also close to the Grant Cove visitor center who can help you plan your Kings Canyon activities.

There are 150 campsites and feature running water, flush toilets, food storage lockers, and ranger programs in the summer. It is open from May to September yet comes without electrical hookup or shower options.

Sheep Creek Campground

Deep inside Kings Canyon, you will find Sheep Creek Campground. It’s known for its privacy compared to other campgrounds and has stunning views of the canyon. It’s only a short walk of the Cedar Grove visitor center and offers a variety of activities within walking distance – hiking, fishing, biking & boat adventures.

It features 111 campsites – all on a first-come-first-served basis – and has amenities such as toilets, showers, picnic tables, laundry facilities, potable water, food storage lockers, and payphones.

As highlighted – there are a total of 14 campgrounds in the area! To find out more about campground options, check out our “Top 9 Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks RV Parks & Campgrounds.”

Rocky Mountain National Park Campgrounds – Colorado

The Rocky Mountains are the quintessential mountain camping experience. Located in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park offers over 350 miles of hiking trails and over 150 lakes to explore. It’s open 24/7, yet its RV parks & campgrounds are top-rated & busy, so pre-bookings up to 6 months are recommended!

Timber Creek Campground

Timber Creek Campground is the only campground on the west side of the park; it is located right along the Colorado River and about 8 miles north of the Grand Lake entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park.

It is within a short distance of beaches, caves, forests, hot springs, and much much more.

The amenities include potable water, grills, picnic tables, vault toilets, trash, recycling, and an RV dump station.

Aspenglen Campground

Aspenglen Campground is located just west of the Fall River Entrance of the Rocky Mountain National Park. If you camp here in September, the elk herds will be in the fields nearby to provide you with an unforgettable experience.

The campsite is very popular as it is within the park boundaries and is very secluded – as such, providing you with nature to its fullest. The Fall River Visitor Center is just a short walk from this campground.

The campsite has 53 spots – open form late May to late September – and offers toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, potable water, and food storage lockers. There are no water or electrical hookups, and they offer bookings up to 6 months in advance as well as first come first served spots.

Moraine Park Campground

Moraine Park Campground is located 15 minutes from Estes Park is the most probably the most popular campground within the Rocky Mountain National Park. It is open 365 days a year and is surrounded by stunning views of the national park & mountains. You can go on hikes, scenic drives, or horseback riding.

Amenities include toilets & drinking water; the campsites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance, so ensure you book early!

Rocky Mountain National Park is incredible and offers many more campgrounds within its boundaries – to find out more click here on “5 Rocky Mountain National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks to Visit.”

Olympic National Park Campgrounds- Washington

Featuring nearly a million acres of vast wilderness and diverse ecosystems in Washington, it’s no wonder Olympic National Park is one of the United States’ most enjoyable destination for camping and exploring. With a 3 hours drive from Seattle, it is ideal for day trips as well as long weekend camper van & RV vacations.

There are a variety of campgrounds & RV parks, which will allow you to set up your base and explore the mountains, lakes, oceans, or rain forests. Here are our top picks for best campsites in and around Olympic National Park.

Hoh Campground

Hoh Campground is located deep within the ancient trees – one of America’s most incredible rain forest! From here you have direct access to the Hoh River to explore the astonishing beauty of the Olympic National Park.

The campsite features 88 sites and features picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, potable water, and food lockers. It is available one on a first come – first serve basis and has sites directly at the Hoh River’s bank!

Fairholme Campground

The Fairholme Campground is based on the west end of Lake Crescent and is situated next to the second largest lake of Washington – ideal for water activities! It is a short walk away from the Olympic Discovery Trail that runs along the north bank of the lake.

Campsites are in prime spots to launch a boat, go swimming as well as a general store that will allow you to rend boats & purchase firewood.

It features 88 tent & RV sites, including the following amenities – picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms & dump stations. Campsites are available on a first-come-first-served basis and fill up quickly in the summertime.

Sol Duc Campground

Located along the Sol Duc River is Sol Duc Campground – a full-facility campground within the old-growth forest. The Sol Duc Hot Springs Resorts maintain the campsite as such you have access to the resort facilities and is very close to the Sol Duc Waterfall as well as hot springs.

With nearly 100 campsites, they all feature picnic tables, food storage lockers, fire rings, and grills plus – due to the resort – you will have access to the hot springs, freshwater pool, restrooms, showers, and a restaurant.

The campsite is open between May to October, and we highly recommend to pre-book your spot!

Graves Creek Campground

Graves Creek Campground is centrally located in the heart of the wild forest of Washington. Its prime location allows guests to enjoy backcountry hiking, exploring, fishing, boating, kayaking, and horseback riding – everything you need for a “back to nature” holiday. Its also full of wildlife including deer, elk, and black bears.

Given its tranquil location, it only features a few amenities – fire rings, picnic tables, and pit toilets. Due to the lack of amenities, many see the Graves Creek Campground as one of the most natural camping experiences possible.

It’s open 365 days a year yet does not take reservations – with only 30 sites, you better get in early.

The Olympic National park is so vast and features so many campgrounds it is impossible to mention them all here. Find out more on our dedicated “8 Olympic National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks You Must Visit.”

Yellowstone National Park Campgrounds- Wyoming & Montana

Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, is a destination visited by travelers from all over. Located in both Wyoming and Montana, Yellowstone National Park is home to a variety of hydrothermal features that attract thousands each year, some of which including the Old Faithful geyser, the expansive Yellowstone Lake, and an abundance of wildlife to keep campers on their toes. Not to mention, the park sits directly on top of the Yellowstone Caldera– a supervolcano that formed over 630,000,000 years ago! The incredible features and views Yellowstone National Park gives its guests keep the park busy during its peak months, so book ahead to reserve a spot in one of its campgrounds.

Madison Campground

Located near the Madison River, Madison Campground is the perfect place to rest your eyes after a long day of fishing on the Madison River. Its unique location places the campground near the world-renown geyser, Old Faithful, and for the avid fisherman, its pristine accessibility to the river, upper, lower, and middle geyser basins keeps this campground busy throughout the year. Yellowstone National Park is known for the adventurous wildlife that tends to creep in to meet its visitors, so make sure you keep your eyes out for any wanderers that are feeling curious.

The amenities offered at this camping spot are flush toilets, cold water faucets, dishwashing stations in most restroom buildings, picnic tables, fire ring with grate, food storage bins, and potable water.

Note: There are no showers on the campsite, but showers are available for purchase 15 minutes away at the Old Faithful Inn or available in West Yellowstone.

Grant Village Campground

Located in the southwest shore of Yellowstone Lake is Grant Creek Village. With a variety of amenities, the campground is a great place to stay and enjoy the features around the park. The campsite is 40 miles from Colter Bay and closes to West Thumb Geyser Basin, giving its guests the ability to access the boardwalks, geysers, unparalleled views, and unique trails weaving throughout the park.

Similar to Madison Campground, Grant Village offers flush toilets, potable water, cold water faucets, dishwashing stations in most restroom buildings, picnic table, fire pit with grate, food storage bins, and coin laundry facilities.

Note: Pay showers are available at Camper’s Services facility, and rates for this campground include 2 showers per night.

Read more on where to camp in Yellowstone in our article, Top 9 Yellowstone Campgrounds & RV Parks.

Glacier National Park – Montana

The apple of Montana’s eye, Glacier National Park, is the main attraction of the Big Sky. Bordering Canada, the park brings thousands each year to explore and witness the beauty of Northwestern Montana. Formed by glaciers, the exquisite mountain peaks and valleys give its guests the luxury of exploring over 700 miles of hiking trails. Not to mention, the park offers some of the most picturesque views in the world, such as those at Going-to-the-Sun Road, Hidden Lake, and many other unparalleled gems of Glacier National Park. With wildlife calling the park home, you are sure to a wide variety of wild animals– just make sure you pack accordingly to stay protected!

Apgar Campground

The largest campground in Glacier National Park– Apgar Campground and its prime location– is sure to give guests a full itinerary of all the park has to offer. With its access to Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, and a variety of hiking trails, Apgar Campground is the perfect centralized location to stay the night after a long day of adventuring. Not to mention, the many amenities the campground allows guests to make the most of their outdoor ventures.

At Apagar, you will enjoy restroom facilities with flushable toilets, running water sinks, potable water, RV dump stations, picnic tables, trash bins, and fire rings without grates. Quick note – shower facilities in Loop A only.

Fish Creek Campground

The second-largest campground in Glacier National Park, Fish Creek Campground, hosts 178 campsites to house its guests. With hiking routes leading in every direction, Fish Creek is the perfect centralized campground for those wishing to hike the day away. The campground is typically busy, but if you make a reservation far ahead of your stay, some of the campsites give its guests the unforgettable views of Lake McDonald.

The amenities offered at this prime camping spot include restroom facilities with flushable toilets, running water sinks, potable water, RV dump stations, picnic tables, trash bins, and fire pits. You will find shower facilities in Loop A only.

Mount Rainier National Park

The majestic, snow-capped Mount Rainier looms large in Washington, and the park it sits in is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Summer here brings wildflowers in bloom and some of the most picturesque hiking trails in the country, while the winter months blanket the park in thick snow, transforming it into a quiet, beautiful expanse.

No matter what time of year you visit, camping in Mount Rainier offers you something unique and there are some excellent campgrounds to choose from, including our top four choices below.

Cougar Rock Campground

One of the most popular campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park, Cougar Rock is perfect for anyone wanting to explore the southwestern section of the park, particularly Paradise, which is famous for its incredible views and hiking trails. This campground is also close to the Longmore Historic District, where you can get a glimpse into the park’s early history.

With nearly 200 sites to choose from, Cougar Rock is ideal for smaller RVs (up to 27 feet), and the sites are spread out among tall, old-growth trees, making you feel like you’re truly camping in the wild! There’s also a communal fire pit, which is ideal if you’re craving that cozy campfire experience, but keep in mind that it does fill up pretty quickly during the peak season.

Ohanapecosh Campground

If you’re heading to the southeast section of Mount Rainier National Park, Ohanapecosh Campground is a great spot for camping among ancient forests and near natural hot springs. There are towering Douglas firs and western red cedars here, providing you with plenty of shade and helping to create a cool, peaceful atmosphere, which is particularly ideal if your vacation is within the hot summer months.

There are 188 individual sites scattered across Ohanapecosh Campground with a mixture of tent and RV spaces, but just keep in mind there are no hookups available, so you’ll need to be self-sufficient. This campground is also more remote than Cougar Rock, so it feels a little wilder, but if you’re looking to reconnect with nature and relax with the sound of the river rushing nearby, it’s a great choice.

White River Campground

For campers seeking even more of a rugged experience, White River Campground is the place to go. Sitting at a higher elevation on the park’s northeastern side, it’s the closest campground to Sunrise, which is one of the best areas for hiking and getting panoramic views of the mountain.

With just over 100 sites that are spread out along the river, White River is a bit quieter and more intimate than some of the other larger campgrounds in Mount Rainier National Park, but it’s higher elevation means you need to be prepared for cooler temperatures all year round, especially at night.

Mounthaven Resort

If you’re after more amenities and an RV-friendly experience just outside the park’s Nisqually entrance, Mounthaven Resort has multiple RV spots in a peaceful woodland setting. It’s also only a mile from the park entrance, so it’s super convenient for taking day trips into Mount Rainier.

You’ll find full hookups here, as well and free Wi-Fi and even a laundry facility, making it a great option if you’re traveling in an RV and need a few creature comforts! There’s also a family-friendly atmosphere here, so it’s ideal if you’re traveling with kids, and it’s also dog-friendly (a small additional fee applies) so it’s perfect for those vacationing with their canine companion.

Grand Teton National Park

Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park feels like a quieter counterpart to its more famous neighbor. It absolutely shouldn’t be discounted, though, especially as the dramatic rise of the Teton Range from the valley floor is unlike anything else in the U.S, with its mountainous skyline dominating the view no matter where you are.

When it comes to camping in Grand Teton, there aren’t only some excellent campgrounds to choose from, but you’ll be getting direct access to the park’s best hiking trails, scenic drives, and stunning viewpoints. It’s also a wildlife lover’s paradise, with elk, bison, moose, and even bears wandering through the meadows.

Gros Venture Campground

Gros Venture Campground is one of the most popular RV-friendly campgrounds in Grand Teton and its location by the southern entrance is perfect if you want to set up camp close to both Grand Teton and Jackson, the lively town just outside the park.

There are over 300 sites available here, and despite this large number, the sites are spread out in a way that still provides you with a sense of seclusion. Just keep in mind that there are no hookups, but there are potable water and flushing toilets available. The Gros Venture River also runs nearby, making this a great place to spot wildlife, especially moose.

Colter Bay RV Park

If you’re looking for a full-service RV park within Grand Teton, Colter Bay RV Park is your go-to spot. Located right near Jackson Lake, this RV park has full hookups, access to showers, laundry facilities, and even a small onsite grocery store, making it a convenient base location for families or campers who like that little extra comfort.

There are 112 full hookup sites at Colter Bay RV Park, which include sewer, water, and 20-, 30-, and 50-amp electric outlets, and each site can either be pulled in or backed in, offering even more convenience. In terms of the surroundings, you’ll be in close proximity to a lake that you can easily launch a kayak onto, and there are several guided tours on offer for those who want to explore and experience the natural beauty of Grand Teton.

Signal Mountain Campground

Perched on the banks of Jackson Lake, Signal Mountain Campground is another fantastic option for RV travelers, but it’s important to note that spaces are limited to vehicles 30 feet or shorter. Located adjacent to Signal Mountain Lodge, there are 80 sites available here (24 of these are equipped with 30 and 50-amp hookups), and the amenities include potable water, flush toilets, camper sinks, hot water, a general store, a coffee bar, a restaurant and bar, and a gift shop.

Of course, it’s not all about the fantastic amenities, and you couldn’t ask for a better option in terms of view, as the Teton Range reflected in the lake’s surface is particularly breathtaking. The view here in the morning is also pretty special, as this is when the dawn light hits the Tetons, and you can often catch a glimpse of the local wildlife wandering through.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Stretching across the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains are one of the most biodiverse in the United States, and the misty, rolling hills of the range make it one of the most visited national parks in the country. It’s a particularly popular destination in fall, when the foliage turns ablaze in shades of orange and red, making for some beautiful scenery and incredible photography opportunities.

The campgrounds in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park vary from backcountry settings to more developed sites, offering something for everyone and making it easy to find a camping experience that suits your style.

Elkmont Campground

Located close to Gatlinburg, Elkmont Campground is one of the largest and most historic in the park. This is an ideal choice for both families and first-time visitors, as it provides easy access to some of the park’s most popular hiking trails, including the trek to Laurel Falls. The Little River also runs directly through the campground, giving you the opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water.

There are over 200 sites available here, including spots for RVs, but keep in mind there are no hookups. However, if you’re comfortable with this setup, it’s certainly a site worth visiting, as the old cottages and remnants of a bygone era that surround the campground add a level of uniqueness to your stay.

Cades Cove Campground

If you want a prime spot for wildlife viewing, Cades Cove Campground is the place to be! Located near the famous Cades Cove Loop, this area is well-known for its open meadows, where deer, black bears, and wild turkeys can often be seen.

The campground itself is relatively large, with spaces for RVs up to 35-feet long, though, like most of the campgrounds in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are no hookups. What you will have, however, is easy access to some awesome hiking trails, as well as some exhilarating mountain biking trails around the Cades Cove Loop.

Cosby Campground

Campers seeking a quieter experience should head to Cosby Campground, which is tucked away in the northeastern part of the parks and is far less crowded than the other campgrounds. There are nearby hiking trails to explore, including the Hen Wallow Falls Trail, and much like the campground itself, these are less trafficked, making it possible to roam the park without worrying about crowds.

The amenities at Cosby Campground are pretty good, and you’ll find flush toilets and potable water, along with 157 sites. Only 57 of these can be booked in advance, and the other 100 are offered on a first-come-first-served basis, which gives you a pretty good chance of grabbing a space if you’ve forgotten to make reservations.

Smokemont Campground

Smokemont Campground is a great choice if you’re looking for a different perspective of the Smokies. The Oconlauftee River runs nearby, there are several lovely hiking trails that start from here, including the Smokemont Loop, and it also has a bit of historical flair as it is located near the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill, where you can learn more about the region’s cultural heritage.

You’ll find a total of 142 available here, but again, there are no RV hookups. The amenities here are very good, though, and include potable water, flush toilets, fire rings, vending machines, and more. It’s also less “touristy” compared to some of the other more centrally located options, which is ideal if you’re looking for a quieter space to set up camp.

Shenandoah National Park

Compared to some of the larger national parks, Shenandoah National Park covers less of an area, but it’s still a beautiful place to visit, especially if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here, you’ll find cascading waterfalls, wildflower-filled meadows, and some of the best hiking trails you could ever wish for.

The campgrounds here are situated along Skyline Drive, which makes them the perfect base for exploring the park’s many trails and overlooks, and while there are many to choose from, here are our favorites.

Big Meadows Campground

One of the most popular campgrounds in the park, Big Meadows sits right in the heart of Shenandoah and is a super-convenient place for exploring as it’s located right by some of the best hiking trails, including the easy-to-reach Dark Hollow Falls.

As with most national park campgrounds, there are no hookups at Big Meadow but there are more than 200 sites to choose from which can be pre-booked for peace of mind. There are also picnic tables, flush toilets, showers, and a dump station, along with a visitor center that offers limited Wi-Fi. The real draw of Big Meadows, however, is the namesake wide-open meadow nearby, which is perfect for spotting deer and other wildlife by day and gazing at the stars by night.

Loft Mountain Campground

Loft Mountain is the largest campground in Shenandoah and it sits atop Big Flat Mountain, giving you some of the best panoramic views in the park. It’s a little more remote than Big Meadows, but this means fewer crowds and an overall quieter camping experience, which is massively appealing to many campers. The Appalachian Trail also passes right by it, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking to enjoy a hike.

There is a mix of reservable and first-come-first-served sites at Loft Mountain, so there’s no need to panic if you’ve forgotten to make reservations. There are also 207 sites in total (50 of these are suitable for tent camping only), and the facilities here include trash cans, food storage lockers, potable water, a dump station, and a laundry room.

Lewis Mountain Campground

If you’re looking for an even quieter, intimate camping experience, head to Lewis Mountain Campground. This is the smallest campground in Shenandoah National Park, and despite being so quiet, it’s less than a mile from Skyline Drive, so you’ll still get easy access to some fantastic overlooks and walking trails.

Each of the 30 sites here are shaded by the surrounding trees, and while there are fewer amenities than some other campgrounds nearby, this is all part of the appeal! It’s all about simplicity here and enjoying the natural beauty of the area, here.

Mathews Arm Campground

A bit more off the beaten path, Mathews Arm Campground is a peaceful option for campers hoping to escape the crowds and truly reconnect with nature. Close to the Overall Run Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in Shenandoah National Park, there are several beautiful hiking trails to enjoy that start directly from the site, and the remote location makes it a particularly good option for birdwatching as the native birdlife tend to feel less threatened here than in busier sections of the park.

The RV sites are spacious (albeit without hookups) and there are 165 in total across a mixture of reservable and first-come-first-served. The amenities here are very basic compared to some other campgrounds, but if you’re looking for the real camping experience in a site that is open year round, it’s definitely one to consider.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning to visit one specific campground or plan a trip through multiple, with a campervan from Travellers Autobarn, you can rest assured you’ll have somewhere safe and comfortable to call home, no matter how long you’re hitting the road for. Also, since all of our campervan rentals include unlimited miles, you can explore some of the country’s most beautiful national parks at your own pace without worrying about racking up any extra costs.

Here are a few other articles you may enjoy.

Guide to Free Camping in the USA
Guide to the Best Campgrounds for Campervans in the USA
Van Life Guide for Beginners: Traveling Around the United States in a Campervan
Ultimate National Parks Campervan Road Trip
Best National Parks for a Campervan Winter Getaway