Camping by Car: Road Trips to the Best Campsites in the Country

5 June 2025

Nothing beats the thrill of hitting the open road and chasing the perfect campsite. Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or new to car camping, there’s something magical about traveling on four wheels, setting up camp under a starry sky, and waking up to nature’s finest views.

But where should you go? With countless incredible campsites across the country, we’ve rounded up some of the best spots to fuel your wanderlust. Buckle up, grab your camping gear, and let’s dive into the ultimate road trip adventure!

Why Camping by Car is the Best Way to Travel

Ever tried hauling a heavy backpack up a mountain for hours? Yeah, not everyone is cut out for that. That's where car camping wins big! You can carry everything you need, have a cozy spot to sleep, and still enjoy the great outdoors without breaking your back.

Here’s why camping by car is unbeatable:

- No lugging heavy gear – Pack all your essentials in the trunk and drive straight to your campsite.
- Ultimate flexibility – Change plans on the fly and chase the best weather or scenic views.
- Comfort + convenience – Sleep in your car if needed, cook with ease, and bring extra luxuries like a camping stove or comfy chairs.
- Budget-friendly – Say goodbye to expensive hotels – nature is practically free!

Now, let’s hit the road and check out some of the country’s best campsites.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

If you love lush forests, misty mountains, and abundant wildlife, this one’s a must-visit. With over 800 miles of trails, you can explore waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and even historic cabins.

Best Spots for Car Camping:

- Cades Cove Campground – Great for wildlife spotting (think deer, black bears, and wild turkeys).
- Elkmont Campground – Tucked in the woods with easy access to the Little River for fishing or splashing around.

Road Trip Tip:

Make sure to drive the Cades Cove Loop Road—a stunning 11-mile scenic drive with breathtaking views.

2. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite is legendary, and if you’ve never been, trust me—you’re missing out! From towering granite cliffs to cascading waterfalls, this place feels straight out of a dream.

Best Spots for Car Camping:

- North Pines Campground – Nestled in Yosemite Valley with incredible views of Half Dome.
- Tuolumne Meadows Campground – A less crowded option surrounded by alpine scenery.

Road Trip Tip:

Arrive early—campgrounds fill up FAST, especially in peak season. And don’t forget to check out Glacier Point for an unforgettable sunset!

3. Acadia National Park, Maine

Want to wake up to the sound of crashing ocean waves? Acadia offers a unique mix of coastal beauty, granite peaks, and peaceful forests.

Best Spots for Car Camping:

- Blackwoods Campground – Close to Bar Harbor and perfect for catching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain.
- Seawall Campground – A quieter, more rustic option near the coastline.

Road Trip Tip:

Take the Park Loop Road for jaw-dropping ocean views and be sure to stop at Thunder Hole to hear the waves roar.

4. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

This is where the mountains practically touch the sky. With jagged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and endless adventure, Grand Teton is a dream for campers.

Best Spots for Car Camping:

- Colter Bay Campground – Right on Jackson Lake with postcard-worthy views.
- Jenny Lake Campground – Super scenic but fills up quickly, so get there early!

Road Trip Tip:

Take a short detour to Jackson, WY, and grab a bison burger—you won't regret it!

5. Olympic National Park, Washington

Love diversity? Olympic has it all—rainforests, mountains, and rugged coastline, all in one park.

Best Spots for Car Camping:

- Hoh Rain Forest Campground – Sleep under massive moss-draped trees.
- Kalaloch Campground – Oceanfront camping with insane sunset views.

Road Trip Tip:

Drive to Ruby Beach and walk along the dramatic sea stacks—it’s like stepping into a movie scene.

6. Zion National Park, Utah

If red rock landscapes and grand canyon-esque views call your name, Zion is the place to be. The towering cliffs and epic hikes here are unreal.

Best Spots for Car Camping:

- Watchman Campground – Right near the Virgin River, with easy access to Zion Canyon trails.
- South Campground – Another solid option, but it fills up fast.

Road Trip Tip:

Take on Angel’s Landing if you’re up for a thrilling (and slightly terrifying) hike. If not, the Narrows is a beautiful, water-filled hike through towering canyons.

Essential Packing List for Car Camping

Packing for a camping road trip is a fine balance between bringing everything you need and not overloading your car. Here’s a solid checklist to get you started:

✔ Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad (or a comfy car setup)
✔ Camping stove, fuel, and cookware
✔ Cooler + food & snacks
✔ Water jugs and filtration system
✔ Headlamp or lantern
✔ First-aid kit and bug spray
✔ Hiking gear and comfortable shoes
✔ Maps or GPS (don’t rely solely on your phone!)

Road Trip Hacks for the Best Camping Experience

🚗 Plan but stay flexible – Road trips are all about the journey. If you find a cool roadside attraction, stop and check it out!

🏕️ Book campsites ahead of time – Some popular spots fill up fast. If you’re heading to national parks, make reservations in advance.

🌲 Leave no trace – Pack out what you pack in. Let’s keep nature as beautiful as we found it!

🛠️ Prepare for the unexpected – Carry extra fuel, a basic tool kit, and a roadside emergency kit just in case.

🗺 Offline maps are a lifesaver – Signal can be spotty in remote areas, so download maps before heading out.

Final Thoughts

Camping by car is the perfect mix of freedom, adventure, and comfort. Whether you're chasing waterfalls in Yosemite, watching wildlife in the Smokies, or camping next to ocean waves in Acadia, every trip is a new story waiting to be written.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, hit the road, and make some unforgettable memories at the best campsites in the country.

Happy camping!