Sleep Under the Stars at These Secret Camping Spots

8 February 2025

Ever dreamt of sleeping under a blanket of twinkling stars, away from the glow of city lights and the hum of urban life? Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping or the gentle rustle of trees swaying in the breeze. There's something magical about camping, especially when you find those secret, tucked-away spots that feel like they were made just for you. But let’s be honest—finding that perfect secret camping spot where you’re far from the tourist crowds can be tough. Lucky for you, I’ve done the legwork and compiled a list of hidden gems where you can pitch a tent and get cozy with nature.

Grab your sleeping bag, pack that marshmallow skewer, and let’s dive into some of the best secret camping spots you’ve probably never heard of!

What Makes A Secret Camping Spot So Special?

Before we get to the good stuff—where to go—it’s important to understand why these lesser-known spots are so amazing compared to mainstream campgrounds. We've all heard of the big national parks, and yes, they’re great. But when you camp in a secluded area, a whole new world opens up.

Want a few reasons why you should start seeking out secret camping spots?

- Peace and Quiet: Said goodbye to noisy neighbors at popular campsites. At a hidden spot, it’s just you, nature, and maybe a few critters.
- Stargazing Opportunities: Less light pollution means clearer skies. If you’ve never seen the Milky Way, prepare to be blown away.
- Adventure: There’s something extra thrilling about blazing your own trail and discovering places few people have been. It almost feels like stepping back in time.
- Privacy: You don’t have to worry about anyone else around. Feel free to belt out your campfire songs or skinny dip in the lake—no one's judging.

Now that you're itching to escape the noise and experience solitude, let’s talk about the hidden gems you should add to your list.

1. Green River Lakes, Wyoming

An Untouched Wilderness

Not too far from Jackson Hole, but far enough to avoid the crowds, Green River Lakes offers breathtaking views of the Wind River Mountain Range. This pristine, secluded spot is ideal for those who want to truly get off the grid. The towering Squaretop Mountain looms over the lakes, providing a surreal backdrop ideal for photos and postcards (or, you know, your travel scrapbook).

Why It’s Special

The Green River flows right through this campsite, offering excellent opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Plus, the sky here seems endlessly vast—perfect for stargazing. If you're lucky, you'll catch reflections of the stars dancing on the water's surface.

Pro Tip

Bring bear spray—and don’t worry, it's more precautionary than anything. Wildlife is your neighbor here, but they generally keep to themselves if you respect their space.

2. Havasu Falls, Arizona

Hidden Gem in the Desert

While the Grand Canyon gets most of the attention, it’s the remote Havasu Falls that will steal your heart. Nestled within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, this secret spot requires a bit of effort to reach—about a 10-mile trek. But trust me, it’s worth every step.

Picture this: crystal-clear turquoise waterfalls cascading into a series of pools, surrounded by towering red rocks. It’s like something out of a dream.

Why It’s Special

Aside from the jaw-dropping beauty, Havasu Falls is a hidden oasis in the desert—perfect for escaping the heat while still enjoying a secluded experience. Once night falls, the desert skies come alive with stars that seem close enough to touch. It's truly an out-of-this-world camping experience.

Pro Tip

Permits are required, and they can be hard to snag. Make sure to plan ahead and secure yours well in advance to avoid disappointment.

3. Jarbidge Wilderness, Nevada

Wild and Free in Nevada

You've probably never heard of Jarbidge, Nevada, and that's exactly why it should be at the top of your secret camping spot list! This remote wilderness area is a slice of untamed goodness. It’s so off-the-beaten-path that few people outside of Nevada even know it exists—but that's half the fun, right?

Jarbidge Wilderness offers beautiful hikes, rugged landscapes, and plenty of places to set up camp under the stars.

Why It’s Special

Jarbidge is one of the least visited wilderness areas in the lower 48 states, meaning you’re unlikely to bump into another soul during your stay. This kind of solitude makes it an excellent spot for stargazing, and the clear night skies here are nothing short of mesmerizing.

Pro Tip

The surrounding town of Jarbidge has a population of about 20 people—yes, you read that right. So, make sure you come well-prepared with supplies (and maybe even a survival guide). But don’t worry; the locals are friendly and can offer some great suggestions for hidden trails.

4. Point Reyes National Seashore, California

Coastal Paradise Without the Crowds

Just a short drive from San Francisco, Point Reyes National Seashore offers a beautiful, windswept coastline that feels a world away from the bustling city. Most people stick to the day hikes, but if you want to sleep under the stars in relative peace, head to one of the more remote camping areas.

Why It’s Special

Imagine watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, the sky streaked with oranges and pinks, only to be replaced by a dark, glittering canvas of stars. The sound of crashing waves will lull you to sleep, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some bioluminescent algae lighting up the water at night.

Pro Tip

The Coast Trail is a great place to set up camp, and it’s not too far from the beach. Just check the weather beforehand; coastal fog can roll in, and trust me—you don’t want to wake up damp!

5. Tettegouche State Park, Minnesota

A Woodland Escape

Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Tettegouche State Park offers an incredible camping experience without the crowds that often flock to Minnesota’s more popular parks like the Boundary Waters. The rugged cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and thick woodland are perfect for those seeking solitude in nature.

Why It’s Special

Aside from its natural beauty, Tettegouche is far enough north to give you a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights on a clear night! And even if auroras don't make an appearance, the dark skies are some of the best in the Midwest for stargazing.

Pro Tip

The park offers both backcountry and drive-in campsites, but if you’re looking to really escape the crowds, opt for a backcountry spot. You’ll be rewarded with more privacy and an immersive wilderness experience.

6. Enchanted Valley, Olympic National Park, Washington

A Valley Full of Wonders

Known as the "Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls," this hidden gem in Olympic National Park is a lush, green paradise. It’s a bit of a hike to get to—about 13 miles—but it’s an unforgettable journey through moss-covered forests, rushing streams, and wildlife-rich meadows.

Why It’s Special

This is the heart of the rainforest. Expect towering ancient trees, vibrant flora, and the sound of waterfalls at every turn. And the best part? Very few people make the trek out here, meaning you’ll have plenty of space to lay out your sleeping bag and gaze up at the stars peeking through the canopy.

Pro Tip

Don’t forget to bring rain gear! The Pacific Northwest is notorious for its spontaneous showers, and you don’t want to get caught unprepared.

7. Dolly Sods Wilderness, West Virginia

A Wilderness Like No Other

Dolly Sods isn’t like most places you’ll find on the East Coast. In fact, the landscape here is more reminiscent of the Rocky Mountains than Appalachia. The combination of bogs, windswept plains, and unique rock formations makes for a surreal yet peaceful setting.

Why It’s Special

Far removed from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities, Dolly Sods offers some of the most beautiful nighttime views on the East Coast. The stargazing is unmatched, and meteor showers are particularly breathtaking here.

Pro Tip

Fall is an especially magical time to visit. The changing colors of the foliage transform the already-gorgeous landscape into something truly out of a fairy tale.

Embrace the Magic of Secluded Camping

Camping in lesser-known spots is like finding a hidden treasure chest in the wilderness. You get the beauty, the serenity, and the chance to reconnect with nature without the hassle of crowded campgrounds. And the best part? You’ll probably have much of it all to yourself.

So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re heaving your gear into Wyoming’s mountains, trekking to a hidden waterfall in Arizona, or pitching your tent by Lake Superior, the stars are waiting for you. Don’t let them down.