The Top Camping Destinations for Fall Foliage
- 1. The Adirondacks, New York
- 2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
- 3. Acadia National Park, Maine
- 4. The Ozarks, Missouri/Arkansas
- 5. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
1. The Adirondacks, New York
Fall is undoubtedly the most magical time of year in the Adirondack Mountains, known for its stunning colors and breathtaking scenery. I had the opportunity to camp in this region last fall, and the experience was unforgettable. The Adirondacks are home to more than 2,000 miles of hiking trails, with many of them offering spectacular views of the colorful foliage that blankets the landscape. From vibrant reds to golden yellows, the fall foliage here is some of the best you’ll see anywhere in the United States.
One of the most popular camping areas in the Adirondacks is the High Peaks Wilderness Area, where visitors can enjoy not only the fall colors but also wildlife sightings and peaceful lakes. For a truly unique experience, consider renting a cabin by the water for a front-row seat to the fall foliage show. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and hiking during the cooler months. Make sure to bring a warm jacket, as temperatures can drop unexpectedly in the higher elevations during fall.
2. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
If you’re looking for a place to experience fall foliage with a mix of cultural history and outdoor adventure, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an ideal choice. I’ve personally hiked several of the park’s most famous trails during autumn, and I can attest to how vibrant and varied the fall colors are here. The park is home to over 100 species of trees, including oak, hickory, and maples, which create a stunning array of colors in the fall.
For a perfect camping experience, I recommend staying at one of the park’s numerous campgrounds or backcountry campsites. Elkmont, a popular campground in the park, offers easy access to trails like the Laurel Falls Trail, which provides picturesque views of both waterfalls and colorful foliage. If you’re an avid photographer, you’ll be delighted by the endless opportunities to capture the changing leaves. Additionally, the cooler weather and misty mornings add a magical touch to the environment, perfect for those who love misty landscapes.
3. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park, located on the coast of Maine, is another top destination for fall foliage. It offers a unique combination of mountain views, coastal scenery, and colorful foliage. I’ve spent a few autumn days here and was amazed by how diverse the landscape is—from the rocky cliffs along the coast to the peaceful lakes and dense forests. The combination of sea and mountain views makes this park stand out from other foliage destinations in the U.S.
The Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain areas are two of the best spots for viewing the fall colors. Cadillac Mountain, in particular, offers an incredible view of the surrounding areas, especially when the sun rises. I recommend setting aside time to drive or hike up Cadillac Mountain to see the view from the top, where you can see the reds, oranges, and yellows contrast against the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Acadia also offers several campgrounds, including Blackwoods and Seawall, which are open in the fall for those who want to experience the tranquility of camping by the ocean.
4. The Ozarks, Missouri/Arkansas
For those looking to explore fall foliage in the heart of the Midwest, the Ozark Mountains offer a stunning and less crowded alternative. The Ozarks stretch across Missouri and Arkansas and feature dense forests, clear lakes, and rolling hills that explode in color during the fall months. During my visit to the Ozarks in mid-October, I was able to witness a vibrant display of colors that included every shade of red, yellow, and orange imaginable.
The Ozark National Forest in Arkansas is one of the top camping spots in the region, offering access to scenic trails like the Ozark Highlands Trail, which is perfect for both novice and experienced hikers. I recommend the Petit Jean State Park in Arkansas as well, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the Arkansas River while surrounded by colorful foliage. The area also offers several campsites and cabins with breathtaking views, making it an excellent destination for both day trips and extended stays.
5. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is another fantastic destination for fall foliage. This park, which stretches along the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers over 200,000 acres of protected wilderness and an abundance of vibrant autumn colors. During my trip to Shenandoah last year, I was struck by the incredible variety of foliage, as well as the ease of access to hiking trails that provide sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
The Skyline Drive is the main scenic route through the park, and it offers some of the best views of the fall foliage. There are numerous overlooks along the drive where you can pull over and take in the vibrant colors stretching across the mountains. If you're up for a more immersive experience, I recommend the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the park and offers an incredible opportunity to hike among the colorful trees. Shenandoah is also home to several well-maintained campgrounds, making it a great option for both tent camping and RV camping.
If you’re planning to visit these stunning fall foliage destinations, I recommend checking out Pine Cliff Resort to plan your trip and find the perfect accommodations for your adventure!
