Where to Camp in December: The Best 10 Campgrounds in the United States

The Best Places to Camp in December

The cold weather doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying the great outdoors. In fact, camping in December can be a magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes, starry nights, and fewer crowds.

If you’re looking for a winter camping destination, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Yosemite National Park: Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, and for good reason. It’s home to towering granite cliffs, giant sequoia trees, and cascading waterfalls. The park is open year-round, but winter is a particularly special time to visit. The snow-covered landscape is absolutely stunning, and the trails are less crowded.
  • Grand Teton National Park: Grand Teton National Park is located just south of Yellowstone National Park, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful mountains in the country. The Teton Range is a hiker’s paradise, and there are plenty of opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park: Rocky Mountain National Park is located in Colorado, and it’s home to some of the highest mountains in the lower 48 states. The park is a great place to go camping in winter if you’re looking for stunning scenery and challenging hikes.

No matter where you choose to camp in December, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. So bundle up, get outside, and enjoy the winter wonderland!

Where To Camp In December

| Location | Pros | Cons |
|—|—|—|
| [Yosemite National Park](https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm) | Rugged mountains, giant sequoia trees, and cascading waterfalls | Crowded during peak season |
| [Grand Canyon National Park](https://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm) | Spectacular views of the Grand Canyon | Very hot during the day, cold at night |
| [Rocky Mountain National Park](https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm) | Rocky peaks, alpine lakes, and hiking trails | Can be snowed in |
| [Zion National Park](https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm) | Narrow canyons, towering cliffs, and slot canyons | Very popular, can be crowded |
| [Arches National Park](https://www.nps.gov/arch/index.htm) | Balanced rocks, towering arches, and canyons | Very hot during the day, cold at night |
| [Bryce Canyon National Park](https://www.nps.gov/brca/index.htm) | Hoodoos, canyons, and mesas | Very cold at night |

Factors to Consider When Choosing a December Camping Destination

When choosing a December camping destination, there are a few factors to consider to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

  • Climate. The most important factor to consider when choosing a December camping destination is the climate. The weather can vary significantly from one region to another, so it’s important to choose a destination that has a climate that you’re comfortable with. If you’re looking for warm weather, you’ll want to choose a destination in the southern United States or Mexico. If you’re okay with cooler weather, you could consider camping in the mountains or the desert.
  • Elevation. The elevation of your camping destination will also affect the climate. The higher the elevation, the colder the weather will be. If you’re planning on camping at a high elevation, be sure to pack warm clothes and gear.
  • Access to amenities. Another important factor to consider is the availability of amenities at your camping destination. If you’re looking for a place to stay that has all the comforts of home, you’ll want to choose a campground that has amenities like restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. If you’re okay with roughing it, you could choose a more primitive campground that doesn’t have any amenities.
  • Activities. The activities you plan on doing while camping will also affect your choice of destination. If you’re looking for a place to go hiking, fishing, or swimming, you’ll want to choose a destination that offers those activities. If you’re just looking for a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, you could choose a destination that doesn’t have a lot of activities to offer.

Top December Camping Destinations in the United States

There are many great camping destinations in the United States that are perfect for a December camping trip. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • National and state parks. There are many national and state parks that offer camping opportunities in December. Some of our favorites include:
  • Yosemite National Park in California
  • Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
  • Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado
  • Shenandoah National Park in Virginia
  • Acadia National Park in Maine
  • Campgrounds. There are also many campgrounds that offer camping opportunities in December. Some of our favorites include:
  • KOA campgrounds
  • Campgrounds operated by the National Forest Service
  • Campgrounds operated by the Bureau of Land Management
  • RV parks
  • Cabins. If you’re looking for a more comfortable camping experience, you could consider staying in a cabin. There are many cabins available for rent in December, especially in the mountains and the desert.

December is a great time to go camping, and there are many great destinations to choose from in the United States. By considering the factors listed above, you can choose a destination that’s perfect for you and your family.

Where to Camp in December?

Camping in December can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, it’s important to choose a campsite that is suitable for the weather conditions and your desired activities.

Here are a few tips for choosing a campsite in December:

  • Consider the weather. The weather in December can vary greatly depending on your location. In some areas, you may experience snow, ice, and cold temperatures. In other areas, the weather may be mild and sunny. It’s important to choose a campsite that is located in an area with weather conditions that you are comfortable with.
  • Choose a campsite that is close to amenities. If you are planning on camping with children or other people who may not be as experienced with camping, it’s important to choose a campsite that is close to amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. This will make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
  • Choose a campsite that offers activities. If you are looking for a camping trip that is full of activities, there are many campsites that offer hiking, biking, fishing, and other activities. Be sure to do your research and choose a campsite that offers the activities that you are interested in.

Here are a few of the best places to camp in December:

  • National Parks

Many national parks offer camping opportunities in December. Some of the most popular national parks for winter camping include:

  • Yosemite National Park in California
  • Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
  • Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado
  • Zion National Park in Utah
  • State Parks

Many state parks also offer camping opportunities in December. Some of the most popular state parks for winter camping include:

  • Palisades Interstate Park in New York and New Jersey
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio
  • Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan
  • Private Campgrounds

There are also many private campgrounds that offer camping opportunities in December. Some of the most popular private campgrounds for winter camping include:

  • KOA Campgrounds
  • Camping World
  • YMCA Campgrounds
  • Boy Scouts of America Campgrounds

Tips for Camping in December

Camping in December can be a great experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the weather conditions. Here are a few tips for camping in December:

  • Prepare for the weather. The weather in December can vary greatly depending on your location. In some areas, you may experience snow, ice, and cold temperatures. In other areas, the weather may be mild and sunny. It’s important to research the weather conditions in your area before you go camping.
  • Pack the right gear. When packing for a December camping trip, it’s important to pack warm clothes, waterproof gear, and other essentials. Here is a list of some of the items you may want to pack:
  • Warm clothes: A warm coat, hat, gloves, and boots are essential for camping in December. You may also want to pack a sleeping bag rated for below freezing temperatures.
  • Waterproof gear: A waterproof tent, sleeping bag, and rain gear are essential for staying dry in the rain or snow.
  • Other essentials: Other essentials you may want to pack include a flashlight, first aid kit, matches or lighter, and a map of the area.
  • Stay safe. When camping in December, it’s important to stay safe. Here are a few tips:
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. This is especially important if you are camping alone.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions and be prepared to change your plans if necessary.
  • Don’t build a campfire in dry conditions.
  • Be careful when hiking in icy or snowy conditions.
  • Watch out for wildlife.

Resources for Planning Your December Camping Trip

There are a number of resources available to help you plan your December camping trip. Here are a few of the most helpful:

  • Government websites: Many government websites offer information on camping in December. Here are a few examples:
  • National Park Service website (www.nps.gov)
  • US Forest Service website (www.fs.usda.gov)

* **Bureau of Land Management website

Where can I camp in December?

  • National and state parks often offer campgrounds that are open year-round.
  • Private campgrounds may also be open during the winter months, but it’s important to call ahead to check their status.
  • Some campgrounds in warmer climates, such as the southern United States, are open year-round.
  • If you’re looking for a truly winter camping experience, consider camping in a snow-covered location, such as the mountains or the desert.

What should I pack for a winter camping trip?

  • Warm clothing, including a winter coat, hat, gloves, and boots
  • A sleeping bag rated for the expected low temperatures
  • A tent rated for the expected snow load
  • A stove or other means of heating
  • Extra food and water
  • A first aid kit
  • A flashlight or headlamp
  • A map and compass
  • A fire extinguisher

What are some tips for winter camping?

  • Choose a campsite that is sheltered from the wind.
  • Build a fire to stay warm.
  • Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia and frostbite.
  • Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Don’t hike alone.
  • Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.

What are some of the best winter camping destinations in the United States?

  • The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina
  • The Rocky Mountains in Colorado
  • The Sierra Nevada Mountains in California
  • The deserts of Arizona and New Mexico
  • The Joshua Tree National Park in California

How can I make winter camping more enjoyable?

  • Choose a winter activity that you enjoy, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing.
  • Bring along some hot chocolate or other warm beverage to enjoy by the campfire.
  • Read a book or tell stories by the firelight.
  • Take a nap in your warm sleeping bag.
  • Spend some time stargazing.

Camping in December is a great way to experience the beauty of nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. There are many different places to camp in December, each with its own unique attractions. Whether you’re looking for a warm winter getaway or an adventure in the snow, there’s a camping spot for you in December.

When planning your December camping trip, be sure to consider the weather and the activities you want to do. If you’re looking for a warm winter getaway, consider camping in the desert or the southern United States. If you’re looking for an adventure in the snow, consider camping in the mountains or the northern United States.

No matter where you choose to camp in December, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. So pack your bags, get out there, and enjoy the beauty of nature!

Key Takeaways:

  • December is a great time to camp, as the weather is typically mild and the campgrounds are less crowded.
  • There are many different places to camp in December, each with its own unique attractions.
  • When planning your December camping trip, be sure to consider the weather and the activities you want to do.
  • No matter where you choose to camp in December, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

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.