What is the best NP camping experience?
We travel in a 32 foot fiver. Often, when visiting national parks, we find it convenient to make reservations at a private CG and commute to the park, but on occasion, I believe it would be a lot of f...
Forum Discussion
While many have listed CG's because of the parks they are in, the ones listed below are because of the CG itself, not the park they are in. CG's where the scenery from your campsite is supurb and where one can walk from the CG for some great experiences. IMHO, while Yellowstone, Canyonlands, Tetons, etc. are amazing parks, the camping "experience" aren't to the same level as these:
Devils Garden in Arches. Set up camp and stay a few days. Many trails can be hiked right from the CG. Amazing views of the red rocks. Esp. wonderful in the spring when there's still snow on the LaSal Mtns. Deer often in the CG. Busy, Busy, Busy. For good reason.
Watchman or South CG's in Zion are both within walking distance of the Visitors Center where one picks up the shuttle to head further up the canyon (no cars allowed up there most of the year). Great scenery right in the canyon with the Virgin River flowing nearby to wade in when it gets hot.
Many Glacier CG in Glacier NP. Again, trails from the CG, jaw dropping scenery, an ice cream stand nearby. Buy some ice cream, sit on their deck and watch the wildlife on the steep slopes above in the evening.
Chisos Basin, Big Bend NP. Don't think it will fit your rig, but high up in the mountains with hiking right there. Much cooler than the rest of the park. This park is best from Nov through early March.
The CG's in Yosemite Valley. Be prepared for crowds. Tough to get a reservation. But amazing scenery. Use the shuttle service to get around and access trailheads. More like a small city at times so not for everyone.
So many more I could list, but I need to get outside and play!
Devils Garden in Arches. Set up camp and stay a few days. Many trails can be hiked right from the CG. Amazing views of the red rocks. Esp. wonderful in the spring when there's still snow on the LaSal Mtns. Deer often in the CG. Busy, Busy, Busy. For good reason.
Watchman or South CG's in Zion are both within walking distance of the Visitors Center where one picks up the shuttle to head further up the canyon (no cars allowed up there most of the year). Great scenery right in the canyon with the Virgin River flowing nearby to wade in when it gets hot.
Many Glacier CG in Glacier NP. Again, trails from the CG, jaw dropping scenery, an ice cream stand nearby. Buy some ice cream, sit on their deck and watch the wildlife on the steep slopes above in the evening.
Chisos Basin, Big Bend NP. Don't think it will fit your rig, but high up in the mountains with hiking right there. Much cooler than the rest of the park. This park is best from Nov through early March.
The CG's in Yosemite Valley. Be prepared for crowds. Tough to get a reservation. But amazing scenery. Use the shuttle service to get around and access trailheads. More like a small city at times so not for everyone.
So many more I could list, but I need to get outside and play!
