Sleeping under the stars and toasting marshmallows are often core memories for your family when camping. These trips offer a break from the daily routine and a chance to connect with nature. If you’re looking for a break, plan a trip to one of the country’s best recreational areas.
America’s Top Family Camping Destinations
Every region of the U.S. boasts unique ecosystems and places to camp. There’s something for everyone as your family hikes through old forests and relaxes by tranquil lakes. Here are 10 terrific spots for campers of all ages.
1. Assateague Island National Seashore
Drive south of Ocean City to see one of the most stunning sights in North America. Assateague Island National Seashore has had undeveloped beaches since the 1960s. That said, the area’s top attraction is the wild horses.
The U.S. has around 300,000 wild horses nationwide, and some are on Assateague Island. You can find them walking along the sandy shores or on nearby roads. Other wildlife includes ospreys, sika deer, red foxes and ghost crabs.
2. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is the quintessential national park for families. Your loved ones can enjoy iconic geysers like Old Faithful and Grand Geyser. These geysers wow crowds while teaching you about geology and hydrology. Get in line early to get great views of these majestic sites.
The park also offers safari-like tours to see bison, wolves and bears in the Lamar Valley. Your kids can enjoy short hikes, camping and ranger programs. Take advantage of unique outdoor opportunities, such as horseback riding and observing colorful pools.
3. Big Thicket National Preserve
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Diverse ecosystems converge at Big Thicket National Preserve. This southeast Texas destination is a short drive from Beaumont and is famous for its biodiversity. Here, you can see where forests, swamps and plains meet and house wildlife.
Alligators, river otters and hundreds of other animals call the area home due to the varied terrain. Take the family for hikes, ranger-led programs and birdwatching. Your family can enjoy picnicking and fishing while learning about the calm bayous.
4. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
Head to the East Coast to see John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, one of Florida’s most educational campgrounds. This Palm Beach park features interactive exhibits and school programs at the nature center. You can also enjoy guided tours to explore the local ecosystems.
Staying at the campground means you’re close to family-friendly attractions. The Norton Museum of Art has over 8,200 works, while the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum displays 5,000 years of history.
5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is in the heart of northern Michigan, making it great for summer travel. The local climate’s mild temperatures are excellent for hiking, swimming and exploration. However, you can still visit in the winter for a quiet wonderland.
Platte River Campground is a top family camping destination, which features updated restrooms, showers and electric hookups. Your tent or RV is conveniently located near the river and Lake Michigan. For rustic views, check out D.H. Day Campground and enjoy time alongside the lake.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains is the most popular national park in the United States. In 2024, the park had over 12 million visitors for the fifth consecutive year. Tennessee’s recreational area features kid-friendly hikes on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Cataract Falls route. You’re also close to entertainment hubs like Pigeon Forge.
The location has diverse camping opportunities, depending on your experience level. Beginners should head to Smokemont or Cades Cove for frontcountry camping. These sites feature on-site staff, camp stores and year-round dump stations.
7. First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park is among the top family camping destinations for history lovers. English settlers arrived in this area over 400 years ago, so you can walk the same grounds as the original Jamestown colonists. Families visit the park for its extensive 20-mile trail system, maritime forests and kayaking opportunities.
Visitors stay the night at the main campground, which offers RV hookups and tent sites. Consider the cabins for luxurious accommodations, while the yurts offer a nontraditional camping experience. There are plenty of spots with views of Chesapeake Bay.
8. Shenandoah National Park
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Shenandoah National Park is another must-see recreational site in Virginia. It’s not too far from Washington, D.C., and Richmond, making it convenient for residents and tourists. Prioritize kid-friendly hikes, such as Fox Hollow Trail, Stony Man and Dark Hollow Falls. These paths demonstrate the best of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The park has four main campgrounds, providing numerous overnight accommodations. Mathews Arm, Big Meadows, Lewis Mountain and Loft Mountain have sites for tents and RVs. If you have a permit, you can test your skills in Shenandoah’s backcountry.
9. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
The Delaware Water Gap spans eastern Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey. It’s a short trip from major cities like New York, Philadelphia and Allentown. The sizable park features canoeing, waterfalls and hiking alongside the historic Delaware River. Families visit for the lifeguarded beaches, scenic drives and impressive waterfalls.
There are multiple camping opportunities in the Delaware Water Gap. Head to Worthington State Forest Campground in the southern portion, though there are a few more in the north. Rivers Bend, Alosa and Valley View are great for families and large groups.
10. Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park is among the top family camping destinations, although it’s still underrated. Head south of Columbus, Ohio, to see caves, waterfalls and gorges. Your family can enjoy ziplining over the gorges and exploring pristine wilderness. Carve out time to visit the nearby Pencil Sharpener Museum for a unique experience.
Hocking Hills has a main campground with standard tent sites and primitive camping. It also has cabins for easier camping, as they offer air conditioning and heating. You also get a small fridge and a microwave oven in each cabin.
What to Know Before Camping With the Family
Before heading to the top family camping destinations, it’s essential to plan your trip. Here are a few tips to make planning less stressful and more fun.
- Let the kids be involved in planning.
- Pack easy and familiar meals.
- Test camping in the backyard.
- Assemble a first-aid kit.
- Dress in layers.
- Throw away your trash and leave no trace.
Building Anticipation for Your Camping Trip
The country offers plenty of opportunities to unplug and unwind. Take the opportunity to reconnect with nature and make lasting memories. National parks, forests and preserves are an excellent start when planning a camping trip. Pick the location that excites you and your family the most.