Best Lakeside Camping Spots in the USA: Perfect Places to Connect with Nature
As someone who has always loved both camping and the tranquil beauty of lakes, I can’t recommend enough the experience of lakeside camping. There's something incredibly peaceful about waking up to the sight of a calm lake, surrounded by towering trees and rolling hills. Over the years, I've had the privilege of camping at some of the most scenic lakeside spots in the United States, and each has its own charm. In this article, I’ll share the best lakeside camping spots across the U.S. that you should visit if you're looking for a relaxing and scenic getaway. Whether you’re into water sports, fishing, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of nature, these locations have something special to offer.
1. Lake Tahoe – California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, located on the border between California and Nevada, is one of the most popular lakeside camping spots in the U.S., and for good reason. I’ve camped here several times, and each visit is a new adventure. The lake is known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains and lush forests. Whether you’re kayaking, fishing, or just lounging on the beach, Lake Tahoe offers plenty of activities to keep you busy.
One of my favorite campsites at Lake Tahoe is the Tahoe State Recreation Area. It’s right by the water, so you can easily access the lake for swimming or canoeing. The sunsets here are breathtaking, with the sun dipping behind the mountains and casting vibrant colors across the water. There are also plenty of hiking trails nearby, including some that offer panoramic views of the lake.
If you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation, Lake Tahoe is an excellent choice. Just make sure to book your campsite early, as this area is very popular, especially in the summer months.
2. Acadia National Park – Maine
Acadia National Park, located on the coast of Maine, is a fantastic place to experience lakeside camping while also soaking in the beauty of the ocean. I’ve visited Acadia several times and always find myself returning for the peacefulness of the lakes and the charm of the surrounding area. The park features numerous ponds and lakes, including Jordan Pond, which is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Blackwoods Campground is a great spot for lakeside camping in Acadia. It’s situated just a short drive from Jordan Pond and offers easy access to the park’s main attractions. The campgrounds are well-kept, and the sites are spacious, giving you a true feeling of being immersed in nature. I highly recommend hiking around Jordan Pond and enjoying the famous popovers at the Jordan Pond House, which serves delicious food with an amazing view of the pond.
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the view, Acadia’s lakes and nearby forests provide a peaceful and immersive experience. The combination of lakeside beauty and coastal charm makes this one of the best lakeside camping experiences in the U.S.
3. Glacier National Park – Montana
Glacier National Park is another lakeside camping destination that I hold dear to my heart. The park is home to numerous beautiful lakes, such as Lake McDonald, Swiftcurrent Lake, and Many Glacier Lake. What sets Glacier apart from other lakeside camping spots is its striking mountain scenery, with towering peaks rising above the lakes, often with snow-capped tops that create a surreal reflection in the still water.
During one of my trips to Glacier, I camped at the Apgar Campground, located near the shores of Lake McDonald. The campgrounds here are well-maintained, and being able to wake up to the sight of the lake and mountains in the distance was unforgettable. I also spent time hiking around the lake and took a boat tour, which offered incredible views of the surrounding wilderness.
If you love hiking and exploring nature while being surrounded by pristine, untouched beauty, Glacier National Park’s lakeside camping will not disappoint. It’s truly a photographer’s paradise, and the serenity of the lakes adds an extra level of tranquility to your experience.
4. Shenandoah National Park – Virginia
Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, is another excellent spot for lakeside camping. The park has a variety of lakes, including the peaceful, reflective Lake Arrowhead. The beauty of this park lies in its accessibility, offering a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still providing a deep connection with nature.
I camped at the Mathews Arm Campground, which is only a short drive from Lake Arrowhead. The campground is situated within a lovely forested area, and the lake provides a great spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The surrounding trails offer incredible hiking opportunities, with some leading to scenic viewpoints of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The fall season is particularly spectacular here, as the autumn foliage creates a colorful tapestry surrounding the lakes.
If you’re looking for a lakeside camping destination that’s close to nature yet easily accessible from urban areas, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect choice. The peaceful lakes and well-maintained campgrounds make this a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
5. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness – Minnesota
The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is one of the best spots in the U.S. for lakeside camping, especially for those who love canoeing and kayaking. This vast wilderness area is located in northeastern Minnesota and is known for its over 1,000 lakes, offering a truly remote and peaceful camping experience. I had the pleasure of spending a few days here, and it quickly became one of my favorite lakeside camping spots.
One of the unique aspects of the BWCAW is that the only way to reach many of the campsites is by canoe. This adds an element of adventure and tranquility to the experience, as the only sounds you’ll hear are the gentle splash of your paddle and the calls of wildlife. The campsites are primitive but well-maintained, offering a truly off-the-grid experience. I spent my days paddling across crystal-clear lakes, fishing for walleye, and enjoying the serenity of the wilderness.
If you're looking for a more rugged, immersive camping experience surrounded by pristine lakes and forests, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area is perfect. It’s one of the most unique lakeside camping experiences in the U.S. and offers a level of solitude and peace that is hard to find elsewhere.
6. Olympic National Park – Washington
Olympic National Park, located in the Pacific Northwest, offers some of the most diverse landscapes in the country, including several beautiful lakes. One of the standout lakes is Crescent Lake, a stunning alpine lake nestled in the heart of the park. The lush, green forests surrounding the lake create a fairy-tale-like atmosphere, and the mist that often rises from the water adds to the magic.
I camped near Crescent Lake at the Fairholme Campground, which provided easy access to the lake for swimming and boating. The surrounding trails were perfect for hiking, with some leading to high viewpoints where you could take in sweeping views of the lake below. The Olympic Peninsula is known for its diverse ecosystems, so I also had the opportunity to explore coastal areas and rainforests, making it one of the most varied camping experiences I’ve had.
With its combination of lakes, forests, and coastline, Olympic National Park offers an unparalleled lakeside camping experience. The beauty of the area, along with its diverse natural environments, makes it a must-visit for any nature lover or camper.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer the serene lakes of the Pacific Northwest or the majestic waters of the Rocky Mountains, lakeside camping offers an incredible way to experience the natural beauty of the United States. From the clear waters of Lake Tahoe to the remote wilderness of the Boundary Waters, each of these spots provides something unique. For me, lakeside camping isn’t just about the location—it’s about the sense of peace and connection with nature that comes with being near water. If you’re planning your next camping adventure, consider one of these amazing lakeside spots for a memorable outdoor experience.
