Where Can I Car Camp in the United States? A Guide to the Best Campgrounds for Car Campers

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Car camping is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors without having to give up the comforts of home. You can sleep in your car, cook your meals on a camp stove, and use a portable toilet. And because you’re not restricted to campgrounds, you can car camp in some truly amazing places.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to car camp in the United States. We’ll cover everything from national parks to state parks, and we’ll give you tips on how to make your car camping trip a success.

So whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, read on for some inspiration!

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State Campground Amenities
California Yosemite National Park Camping, hiking, fishing, swimming
Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park Camping, hiking, biking, fishing
Utah Zion National Park Camping, hiking, canyoneering, rappelling

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Types of Car Camping

There are many different ways to car camp, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. Here are four of the most popular types of car camping:

  • Dispersed camping is the most primitive form of car camping. It involves camping in a designated area of public land, usually in a national forest or BLM land. Dispersed camping is typically free, but there may be no facilities available, such as toilets or water.
  • Campgrounds are a more developed form of car camping. They offer a variety of amenities, such as toilets, showers, and water, and are typically located in more scenic areas. Campgrounds can be either public or private, and fees vary depending on the amenities offered.
  • RV parks are designed specifically for RVs, but they can also be used for car camping. RV parks typically offer full hookups, such as water, sewer, and electricity, as well as other amenities, such as laundry facilities and a pool. RV park fees can be high, but they can be worth it for the convenience and amenities.
  • Overlanding is a type of car camping that involves driving off-road to remote destinations. Overlanding can be more challenging than other types of car camping, but it can also be more rewarding. Overlanding requires a vehicle that is capable of driving off-road, such as a truck or SUV.

Where to Find Car Camping Spots

There are many different places where you can car camp. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • National forests offer a variety of dispersed camping opportunities. You can find dispersed camping spots in most national forests, and they are typically free.
  • State parks also offer dispersed camping opportunities, as well as campgrounds with amenities such as toilets, showers, and water.
  • Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is another great option for car camping. BLM land is open to the public for dispersed camping, and it is typically free.
  • Private campgrounds offer a more developed camping experience than public campgrounds. They typically offer amenities such as toilets, showers, and water, and they may also have other amenities, such as laundry facilities and a pool.

Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to rough it too much. There are many different types of car camping, and there are plenty of places where you can car camp. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start car camping!

Where Can I Car Camp?

There are many great places to car camp in the United States, from national parks to state parks to private campgrounds. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • National Parks: National parks offer some of the best car camping opportunities in the country. Many parks have designated campgrounds with amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Some popular national parks for car camping include:
  • Yosemite National Park in California
  • Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
  • Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming
  • Glacier National Park in Montana
  • Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado
  • State Parks: State parks are another great option for car camping. They typically offer more affordable camping options than national parks, and they often have more amenities, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and hiking trails. Some popular state parks for car camping include:
  • Indiana Dunes State Park in Indiana
  • Piscataway State Park in New Jersey
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio
  • Calaveras Big Trees State Park in California
  • Montauk Point State Park in New York
  • Private Campgrounds: Private campgrounds offer a variety of camping options, from rustic to luxurious. They typically have more amenities than public campgrounds, such as cable TV, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. Some popular private campgrounds for car camping include:
  • KOA Campgrounds
  • Campgrounds of America
  • Hipcamp
  • Recreation.gov
  • Reserve America

When choosing a campground, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking for a basic camping experience, a public campground may be a good option. If you’re looking for more amenities, a private campground may be a better choice.

Gear and Supplies for Car Camping

The essential gear and supplies for car camping include:

  • Tent: A tent is essential for car camping, as it will provide you with shelter from the elements. When choosing a tent, consider the size, weight, and weather conditions you’ll be camping in.
  • Sleeping bag: A sleeping bag will keep you warm at night. When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the temperature rating, fill weight, and size.
  • Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad will provide you with extra cushioning and insulation. When choosing a sleeping pad, consider the thickness, R-value, and weight.
  • Camp stove: A camp stove will allow you to cook your food. When choosing a camp stove, consider the fuel type, size, and weight.
  • Cookware: Cookware will allow you to prepare your food. When choosing cookware, consider the number of people you’ll be cooking for, the type of stove you have, and the weight.
  • Food: You’ll need to pack enough food for your entire trip. When packing food, consider the number of people you’ll be feeding, the length of your trip, and the storage space in your car.
  • Water: You’ll need to pack enough water for your entire trip. When packing water, consider the number of people you’ll be drinking for, the length of your trip, and the availability of water at your campsite.
  • Toiletries: You’ll need to pack your toiletries for your entire trip. When packing toiletries, consider the length of your trip and the availability of showers at your campsite.
  • First aid kit: A first aid kit is essential for any camping trip. When packing a first aid kit, consider the activities you’ll be doing and the medications you take.

Tips for Car Camping

Here are a few tips for car camping:

  • Plan your trip in advance. This will help you make sure you have all the necessary gear and supplies.
  • Choose a campsite that’s suitable for your needs. Consider the size of your group, the type of activities you want to do, and the weather conditions.
  • Pack the right gear and supplies. Make sure you have everything you need for your trip, including food, water, clothing, and shelter.
  • Be prepared for the weather. Check the weather forecast before you leave and pack accordingly.
  • Leave no trace. Be respectful of the environment and pack out all of your trash.

Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to rough it too much. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a safe and

Where Can I Car Camp?

  • National and State Parks

Many national and state parks offer car camping facilities, including campgrounds with RV hookups, tent sites, and cabins. Some parks also have designated areas for dispersed camping, where you can camp in your car off-road.

  • National Forests

National forests also offer a variety of car camping options, including campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and showers, as well as dispersed camping.

  • BLM Lands

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages over 245 million acres of public land, much of which is open to dispersed camping. Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM lands unless otherwise posted.

  • Private Campgrounds

There are also many private campgrounds that offer car camping, with amenities like restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.

What Do I Need to Bring for Car Camping?

When car camping, you’ll need to bring all of the essentials for a comfortable stay, including:

  • A tent or RV
  • Sleeping bags or bedding
  • Stove and cooking utensils
  • Food and water
  • Toiletries
  • Firewood
  • First aid kit
  • Garbage bags
  • Maps and a compass
  • Extra clothes
  • Flashlight or lantern
  • Camera

How Do I Find a Safe Place to Car Camp?

When choosing a spot to car camp, it’s important to find a safe location that is free from hazards. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Choose a spot that is level and clear of rocks, roots, and other debris.
  • Avoid camping in areas that are prone to flooding or landslides.
  • Be aware of the local wildlife and make sure to keep your food and belongings secure.
  • If you’re camping in bear country, be sure to follow the local bear safety regulations.

What Are the Rules for Car Camping?

There are a few general rules that apply to car camping, regardless of where you’re located. These include:

  • Always follow the posted rules and regulations for the area where you’re camping.
  • Be respectful of other campers and the environment.
  • Leave no trace, meaning pack out everything you bring in.
  • Be aware of the fire restrictions in place and only build fires in designated areas.

What Are the Benefits of Car Camping?

Car camping offers a number of benefits over traditional camping, including:

  • Convenience: Car camping is a great option for people who don’t want to hike or backpack to their campsite.
  • Comfort: Car camping allows you to bring all of the comforts of home, including a comfortable bed, a stove for cooking, and a toilet.
  • Safety: Car camping is a relatively safe option, as you have the protection of your car in case of bad weather or an emergency.
  • Solitude: Car camping can be a great way to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.

Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to rough it too much. With a little planning, you can have a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable car camping experience.

there are many different places where you can car camp, from national forests to state parks to private campgrounds. Each location has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research and choose the right one for you. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life or a convenient place to stay during a long road trip, car camping is a great option for people of all ages. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.