Where to Car Camp in the United States: A Guide to the Best Campgrounds for RVs and Vans

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

Where to Car Camp?

Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to rough it too much. You can sleep in your car, cook your meals on a camp stove, and use the bathroom at a nearby campground. And because you’re not carrying all your gear on your back, you can bring more stufflike a comfortable sleeping pad, a cooler full of food, and even a camp chair or two.

If you’re new to car camping, or if you’re just looking for some new ideas for places to camp, here are a few of our favorite spots:

  • Yosemite National Park. Car camping is a popular way to experience the beauty of Yosemite National Park. There are several campgrounds within the park, each with its own unique setting and amenities.
  • Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon is another great option for car camping. There are several campgrounds located along the rim of the canyon, offering stunning views of the Colorado River below.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. There are several campgrounds located throughout the park, each with its own unique hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

No matter where you choose to car camp, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next car camping trip today!

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Location Amenities Cost
Yosemite National Park Campgrounds, hiking trails, swimming $25-$35 per night
Rocky Mountain National Park Campgrounds, hiking trails, fishing $20-$30 per night
Grand Canyon National Park Campgrounds, hiking trails, mule rides $25-$35 per night

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Where To Car Camp?

When it comes to car camping, there are endless possibilities. You can camp in national forests, state parks, national grasslands, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. You can also camp on private land with permission from the landowner.

When choosing a campsite, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the climate. If you’re camping in a warm climate, you’ll want to find a campsite with shade. If you’re camping in a cold climate, you’ll want to find a campsite that’s sheltered from the wind.

Second, consider the terrain. If you’re not comfortable hiking or backpacking, you’ll want to find a campsite that’s accessible by car. If you’re looking for a more challenging experience, you can camp in a more remote location.

Third, consider the amenities. Some campsites have restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Others have no amenities at all. If you have specific needs, you’ll want to find a campsite that meets them.

Here are a few of the best places to car camp in the United States:

  • Yosemite National Park in California is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country. You can camp in the valley floor, in the high country, or along the Tioga Pass road.
  • Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is another great option for car camping. You can camp in the Old Faithful area, in the Lamar Valley, or in the Grand Teton Mountains.
  • Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast. You can camp in the South Rim, in the North Rim, or along the Colorado River.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is a great place to car camp if you’re looking for stunning mountain views. You can camp in the Estes Park area, in the Kawuneeche Valley, or along Trail Ridge Road.
  • Arches National Park in Utah is home to some of the most unique rock formations in the world. You can camp in the Devils Garden area, in the Fiery Furnace, or along the park road.

No matter where you choose to car camp, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. So pack up your gear and hit the road!

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Setting Up Camp

Once you’ve chosen a campsite, it’s time to set up camp. Here are a few tips:

  • Choose a level spot for your campsite, away from trees and other obstacles. This will help to prevent your tent from flooding in the event of a rain storm.
  • Level your vehicle with blocks or chocks. This will help to keep your vehicle stable and prevent it from rolling away in the night.
  • Set up your tent or sleeping platform. Make sure that your tent is pitched in a way that it will be protected from the wind. If you’re using a sleeping platform, make sure that it’s level and that it’s high enough off the ground to protect you from ground moisture.
  • Hang your food and toiletries in a bear-proof container. This will help to keep your food safe from bears and other animals.
  • Build a fire pit and gather firewood. A fire pit is a great way to cook your meals and stay warm at night. Make sure that your fire pit is away from your tent and other flammable objects.

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Enjoying Your Car Camping Trip

Once you’ve set up camp, it’s time to start enjoying your car camping trip! Here are a few ideas:

  • Go for hikes, swim in lakes, fish in rivers, or stargaze at night. There are endless things to do when you’re car camping.
  • Cook over a campfire or camp stove. Cooking over a campfire is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and create memories.
  • Read a book, play games, or just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Car camping is a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

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Car camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get away from it all. With so many different places to camp, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for you. So pack up your gear and hit the road!

Where can I car camp?

  • National and state parks often have designated car camping areas.
  • Campgrounds at private RV parks and resorts typically allow car camping.
  • You can also find car camping spots at Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands.
  • Many campgrounds offer amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities, while others are more primitive.
  • When choosing a car camping spot, be sure to consider the size of your vehicle, the number of people in your party, and the amenities you need.

What do I need to bring for car camping?

  • A car camping checklist can help you make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
  • The basic items you’ll need include:
  • A tent
  • Sleeping bags or pads
  • Cookware and utensils
  • Food and water
  • Toiletries
  • Firewood (if allowed)
  • A first-aid kit
  • Extra clothes
  • A flashlight or lantern
  • A map of the area
  • A car charger for your electronics

How do I prepare for car camping?

  • Before you go, do your research and find a campground that’s right for you.
  • Check the campground’s website or call ahead to find out about the amenities, rules, and regulations.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary permits and reservations.
  • Pack your car carefully, so that you have easy access to everything you need.
  • Arrive at the campground early, so you have time to set up camp and enjoy the evening.

What are some tips for car camping?

  • Choose a campsite that’s level and sheltered from the wind.
  • Set up your tent in a spot that’s away from trees and other obstacles.
  • Be sure to stake down your tent in case of strong winds.
  • Bring a tarp to protect your gear from the rain.
  • Hang your food and toiletries in a bear-proof container.
  • Use a camp stove to cook your food, rather than a campfire.
  • Be respectful of the environment and other campers.

What are some common car camping mistakes to avoid?

  • Don’t forget to pack the essentials.
  • Don’t arrive at the campground too late.
  • Don’t set up your tent in a low-lying area.
  • Don’t leave food out in the open.
  • Don’t build a campfire without a permit.
  • Don’t disturb the wildlife.
  • Don’t leave your trash behind.

    there are many different places to car camp, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the best place to car camp for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a convenient and affordable way to experience the great outdoors, car camping is a great option. Just be sure to do your research and plan ahead to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • Car camping is a great way to experience the great outdoors without having to spend a lot of money.
  • There are many different places to car camp, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
  • When choosing a car camping spot, be sure to consider factors such as accessibility, amenities, and environmental impact.
  • Before you go car camping, be sure to do your research and plan ahead to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

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.