The Best Campgrounds with Water Activities for Your Next Adventure
If you’re anything like me, a good camping trip isn't just about being surrounded by nature; it’s also about making a splash—literally. One of my most memorable camping experiences involved spending the entire weekend kayaking, fishing, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The best part? It was all part of the campground experience. Whether you're into boating, fishing, kayaking, or just lounging by the water, there’s nothing quite like enjoying water activities while camping. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for the best campgrounds with water activities, where you can indulge in your favorite aquatic pastimes while immersing yourself in nature’s beauty.
1. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe has been one of my go-to destinations for camping and water activities for years. Nestled between California and Nevada, this stunning lake offers everything from paddleboarding to fishing, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. There are numerous campgrounds around the lake, but one of my favorites is the Tahoe State Recreation Area. This campground provides easy access to the lake and offers plenty of opportunities for water fun.
During my visit, I rented a kayak and spent hours paddling around the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The crystal-clear water was perfect for swimming, and I even managed to catch a few fish while casting off from the shore. If you enjoy a variety of water activities, Lake Tahoe has it all. Whether you’re into wakeboarding, jet skiing, or just floating around, you’ll find something to suit your interests.
2. Olympic National Park, Washington
If you’re looking for a more rugged and remote camping experience with plenty of water activities, Olympic National Park is the place to go. Located on the coast of Washington, this park is home to lush rainforests, towering mountains, and the rugged Pacific coastline. There are several campgrounds within the park, but I highly recommend staying at Kalaloch Campground, which is right on the beach.
From Kalaloch, you can enjoy activities such as tidepooling, beachcombing, and even sea kayaking. I spent one morning kayaking along the coast, paddling through sea caves, and catching glimpses of seals lounging on the rocks. The area also offers great opportunities for fishing, and the surrounding scenery is truly unparalleled. It’s the perfect place for anyone who enjoys the combination of water and wilderness.
3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of water activities, but the park’s numerous lakes and streams offer fantastic opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. I had the chance to camp at Big Meadows Campground, which is located near the park’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Shenandoah.
The calm waters of the lake were perfect for kayaking, and I spent several hours exploring the shoreline and relaxing by the water. The park also offers plenty of fishing spots, with both stocked and wild trout available. If you’re interested in swimming, the lake’s clear waters are ideal for taking a dip on a hot summer day. Shenandoah is the perfect blend of mountain views and water activities, offering a more peaceful, laid-back camping experience.
4. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is famous for its towering red rock cliffs and stunning desert landscapes, but did you know that it also offers some fantastic water activities? The Virgin River runs through the park, providing visitors with the chance to go canyoneering, river tubing, or simply wading in the cool waters. I recently camped at the Watchman Campground, which is conveniently located near the river, making it easy to access the water whenever I wanted to take a break from hiking.
One of the best experiences I had was floating down the river in an inflatable tube while taking in the jaw-dropping scenery. The combination of water activities and incredible views made for a truly unique camping experience. If you're looking to explore Zion in a new way, tubing or hiking along the river is definitely something you don’t want to miss.
5. Everglades National Park, Florida
For a completely different water experience, the Everglades National Park in Florida is an adventure like no other. Known for its vast wetlands, this park offers unique opportunities to engage in water-based activities such as kayaking, airboat rides, and wildlife watching. I camped at the Flamingo Campground, which is situated on the edge of Florida Bay. This location provides easy access to the water, and I had the chance to go kayaking through the mangroves and even spot alligators in the wild!
The Everglades are an incredibly diverse ecosystem, and paddling through the calm waters of the park’s rivers and estuaries is a one-of-a-kind experience. For those who enjoy fishing, the Everglades offers some of the best saltwater fishing opportunities in the state. I highly recommend taking a guided tour to learn about the park’s rich wildlife and ecosystem. There’s no other place quite like the Everglades when it comes to water activities.
6. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is one of the most scenic and charming parks in the U.S., and its proximity to the coast makes it a great place for water activities. I camped at Seawall Campground, which is just a short walk from the water, and I spent my days hiking, kayaking, and exploring the coastline. The park’s lakes and ponds are perfect for canoeing or kayaking, and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean provides opportunities for boat tours and fishing.
One of the highlights of my visit was kayaking in the serene waters of Echo Lake, surrounded by lush forests and rugged mountain views. The water was calm and crystal-clear, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful paddle. If you prefer the ocean, you can also head to the coast to explore the tidal pools, go fishing, or take a scenic boat tour. Acadia’s combination of coastal and freshwater activities makes it a must-visit destination for any water-loving camper.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another incredible destination for those who love both camping and water activities. The park is home to numerous streams, waterfalls, and rivers, making it ideal for fishing, tubing, and even white-water rafting. I camped at Elkmont Campground, which is located near the Little River, a prime spot for trout fishing and tubing.
The park’s scenic waterfalls, like Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls, are great spots to hike to and enjoy a refreshing dip in the water. The clear, cool streams and rivers offer perfect conditions for wading or tubing on hot summer days. If you’re into fishing, you can try your luck in the many streams and rivers that are home to native trout. The Smokies offer a perfect blend of mountain beauty and water-based fun.
