Camping is the ultimate vacation for millions of people for scores of good reasons. It’s a relatively inexpensive adventure for new couples, recreational and educational opportunities for those with kids, and solitary splendor for those who have seen enough of the madding crowd for a while. Best of all, you can go camping on a whim if you live near the wilds, and there’s nothing wrong with pitching a tent in the backyard from time to time.

Occasionally, though, you crave a longer-lasting, more serious trip. Where should you go after loading your gear into the family truckster or firing up the Winnebago? Here are eight of the best states for camping in the U.S.

1. Minnesota 

Minnesota abounds with state parks, such as Jay Cooke State Park near Duluth to Wild River, Minneopa, Tettegouche,Mystery Cave and Banning. Although many offer camping, you’ll need reservations, so call ahead to ensure you get a spot.

However, don’t cross this state off your itinerary if you miss the deadlines. Minnesota also offers plenty of free boondocking sites, as public lands occupy nearly a quarter of the state.

Minnesota is known as the “land of 10,000 lakes,” water adventurers will find plenty of space to kayak and canoe. You’ll also enjoy oodles of good fishing, keeping your food prices low on your adventure by frying up fresh trout over the campfire. Lake Superior may offer more joy than your favorite east or west coast shoreline, with features like the enigmatic Black Beach, which comes from volcanic rock and minerals.

2. Utah

When it comes to national parks, Utah got a little greedy. This state features five fabulous ones for your camping pleasure:

• Arches National Park: Located near Moab — a town known for rugged outdoor adventure fans — this destination is best known for its rock formations.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: An alpine forest with as many hoodoos or strange red rock spires as trees.
• Canyonlands National Park: Also near Moab, this location is one of the least visited for those who prefer playing desert solitaire like Edward Abbey.
• Capitol Reef National Park: Another less-visited park out of the big five, which offers blue skies as far as the eye can see.
• Zion National Park: Dedicated hikers must get breathy at least once while tackling Angel’s Landing.

National park campsites require reservations, as do the numerous state parks. There is plenty of BLM land available for free camping in this vast western state, but you may need a permit — check with the nearest gas or convenience store.

3. Arizona 

If you’ve ever wanted to experience all four seasons in one fabulous camping trip, head to Arizona. Start your journey in summer by staying at Lost Dutchman State Park, where you can seek a hidden treasure that has eluded Phoenix Valley area natives for over a century.

Call ahead for reservations, as they sell out quickly among residents seeking to get out before the temps climb to triple digits. Bring a light jacket like denim for desert nights, which can chill you even if daytime temperatures hit 90° Fahrenheit or higher.

Enjoy spring and fall by parking your RV or pitching your tent at the Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort off Page Springs Road in Cornville, AZ. Located just 15 minutes from spiritual Sedona — a town known as a hiking mecca — this site offers walking distance to the famous Verde Wine Trail, which is convenient if you enjoy a few glasses of Merlot post-hike and don’t want to endanger other drivers.

Finally, head north for winter. Those who prefer the security of a park can’t go wrong with either of the Williams, AZ, KOA locations. Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” this tiny western town is home to the state’s largest rodeo and a genuine “Polar Express” train ride — pajamas preferred — around the holidays. Those who’d rather boondock will find no shortage of free spaces in Coconino or Kaibab National Forest.

4. Maine 

If you prefer summer camping trips to beat the heat, go north to Maine. Acadia National Park offers multiple campgrounds and RV parks. The state also boasts a few free campsites — a relative rarity along the Eastern seaboard.

Acadia is a recreational wonderland, with zipline and adventure parks that send you and your loved ones soaring through the treetops. It’s adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean and you can take boat rides to several smaller outlying islands. Enjoy fish for dinner, complemented by the clams you dig along the shore. The campgrounds close in winter, so book your trip for after mid-April.

5. Wyoming

Wyoming is home to some of the most gorgeous campsites ever — you’ll think you’ve died and fallen onto the set of “Yellowstone.” The lion’s share of the famous national park of the same name lies within its borders, as does Grand Teton National Park. It’s a fabulous destination for your inaugural RV trip, as it’s considered one of the top five safest states for driving. Work out those kinks before battling bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Adventurers to Wyoming’s wild lands should bring plenty of bear spray. The state is home to many wild animals, including:

• Bison
• Pronghorn antelope
• Elk
• Moose
• Bighorn sheep
• Bald eagles 
• Wolves 
• Black and grizzly bears

6. California

California is another incredible state for camping because of its varied terrain. In the southern part of the state, Joshua Tree National Park offers oodles of adventures for those who love bouldering, although you must use caution to keep the trail in sight and not get lost among the forests of rocks. Several campsites occupy the inland hills surrounding the sprawling L.A. metropolis.

The northern half of the state is likewise a camper’s dream. Redwood National Park lets you pitch a tent under the nation’s tallest trees, while Mendocino National Forest offers free dispersed camping for those who failed to make their reservations in time.

7. Colorado

If you want to feel that Rocky Mountain High firsthand, add a camping trip to Colorado to your list. Although the state’s eastern half is plains, the west comes alive with mountains galore and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Here’s another spot where you should keep your bear spray handy. Many sites have bear boxes already installed, but ensure you review the rules for safe food storage if they do not. Secure anything scented — including food, trash and even body lotion — as soon as you arrive at the site, and never cook or keep food in or near your tent. Avoid throwing the excess in the fire, as the smell could still attract critter traffic.

8. North Carolina 

A spring camping trip to North Carolina can be a tasty expedition indeed. That’s when morels come into season and you can use this mushroom in multiple delicious recipes using your camper’s oven. They’re among the most prized fungus varieties because of their meaty texture and nutty flavor.

North Carolina is home to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers campsites from backcountry spots requiring a hike-in to group sites for families of eight or more with cold running water and flushing toilets. Although you can gather wood to your heart’s content, any external firewood must be heat-treated to halt the spread of invasive species like the dreaded spotted lanternfly.

Camp in These Incredible U.S. States

Camping is the ultimate getaway for people of all ages, and equally delights solo travelers and large family groups. It’s also a budget-friendly vacation option when inflation takes a bite out of your paycheck.

Book your reservations now to visit one of these best U.S. states for camping. Take advantage of living in a rich, diverse nation and experience various landscapes while getting closer to planet Earth.

Happy adventuring, friends!

Guest Contributor: Jack Shaw