The Best National Parks for Tent Camping in the US
- Yellowstone National Park
- Yosemite National Park
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Glacier National Park
- Zion National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, offers a stunning mix of geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Tent camping in Yellowstone provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the park’s wilderness. The Lamar Valley, often referred to as the "Serengeti of North America," is a must-see for those interested in spotting bison, wolves, and elk. Visitors can camp at various designated campgrounds, including the popular Madison Campground, which is centrally located and offers easy access to geothermal features.
During my visit to Yellowstone, I camped at Slough Creek Campground, and I remember waking up to the breathtaking view of bison grazing nearby. It’s an experience that perfectly encapsulates the serenity and grandeur of Yellowstone.
Yosemite National Park
Known for its iconic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias, Yosemite is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers numerous campsites, but one of the best for tent camping is North Pines Campground, located in Yosemite Valley. This campground provides scenic views of Half Dome and is just steps away from Yosemite’s famous hiking trails.
On my visit to Yosemite, I had the chance to camp in North Pines, and it felt like I was surrounded by nature’s most magnificent sculptures. The sunrise over Half Dome was unforgettable, and the experience made me realize why Yosemite is a top choice for camping in the US.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is one of the most visited national parks in the US. Its rich biodiversity, mist-covered mountains, and historical sites offer visitors a truly immersive experience. For those who love tent camping, Elkmont Campground is highly recommended. It’s located near an old logging town and offers easy access to hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls and panoramic mountain views.
Camping at Elkmont allowed me to experience the magic of the Smoky Mountains. The mist that lingers over the valleys in the early morning adds an ethereal touch to the landscape. I also had the chance to enjoy the firefly phenomenon in late spring—a truly unique experience in the park.
Glacier National Park
Situated in Montana, Glacier National Park is renowned for its rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and stunning wildlife. For the best tent camping experience, head to Many Glacier Campground, where you can wake up to the sound of the wind rustling through the trees and the distant call of a loon on Swiftcurrent Lake. The park’s 700+ miles of trails make it a hiker’s paradise, and tent camping allows you to be at the heart of it all.
During my stay at Many Glacier, I hiked the Grinnell Glacier Trail, which offered some of the most awe-inspiring views of the park. Seeing glaciers up close was an unforgettable experience. The proximity of the campground to the trailheads made it even more convenient and immersive.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in Utah, is famous for its dramatic red rock canyons and towering sandstone cliffs. The Watchman Campground is ideal for those looking to camp under the stars and enjoy easy access to Zion's hiking trails, including the famous Angels Landing. The park offers a mix of both scenic beauty and challenging outdoor activities, making it a fantastic choice for adventurers who love tent camping.
My visit to Zion was unforgettable. I camped at Watchman Campground and took on the thrilling Angels Landing hike. The view from the top was nothing short of spectacular, and camping under the clear desert skies made the whole experience feel even more special.
