National Parks Camping Guide

Everything you need to know about camping in America's national parks

Types of Camping

Frontcountry Camping

Drive-up campgrounds with facilities like restrooms, water, and picnic tables. Perfect for families and beginners.

Backcountry Camping

Remote camping requiring hiking to reach. Minimal facilities but maximum solitude and wilderness experience.

RV Camping

Designated areas for recreational vehicles with hookups for electricity, water, and sewage.

Reservation Tips

  • • Book through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance
  • • Popular parks fill up quickly, especially summer weekends
  • • Consider shoulder seasons for better availability
  • • Some parks keep sites first-come, first-served
  • • Cancellation fees apply, so plan carefully

Camping Safety

  • • Store food in bear boxes or bear canisters
  • • Follow Leave No Trace principles
  • • Check fire restrictions before your trip
  • • Bring adequate water and purification methods
  • • Inform someone of your camping plans
Explore Parks for Camping→