Discovering the Best Camping Spots in America's Heartland
This guide highlights the best spots to plan your next Midwest camping experience.
The Midwest is often overlooked as a camping destination, living in the shadows of its neighbors to the East and the West. But this underrated region is full of incredible sights, from the sandy shores of Indiana Dunes to the otherwordly landscapes of the Badlands, this guide highlights the best spots to plan your next Midwest camping experience. We’re confident you'll find your perfect getaway right here in America's heartland.
East, North, Central Midwest Must-Sees
Let’s start with the East North Central region where the landscapes range from Illinois' cascading waterfalls to the sandy shores of Michigan's Lake Superior.
Starved Rock State Park - Illinois
Starved Rock State Park is famous for its 18 canyons formed by glacial meltwater and stream erosion. Each canyon offers waterfalls that vary in size from trickles in the dry season to roaring beauty after rainfalls. For a fantastic day of hiking, the River Trail offers scenic views along the Illinois River and passes by several of the park’s waterfalls.
The park's most popular trail, the LaSalle Canyon loop, allows for an up-close view of several waterfalls which are especially cool to witness in the spring or after heavy rains. The park's rich history and diverse ecosystems also make it a rewarding visit for anyone interested in the natural and cultural heritage of Illinois.
Where to Stay
For those visiting Starved Rock State Park, Whispering Pines Events & Lodging is a great accommodation option, offering a variety of lodging choices from RV and tent sites to comfortable hotel rooms. Guests can enjoy a range of on-site activities including basketball, volleyball, boating, and biking. For more outdoor adventures, the nearby Hennepin Canal offers excellent kayaking, fishing, and biking opportunities.
Indiana Dunes National Park - Indiana
Located along the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park is a beautiful escape that offers more than just beautiful sandy beaches. The park features unique dune formations that rise from the lake's shore and provide challenging climbs with rewarding panoramic views. The park also has over 50 miles of trails. The popular 3 Dune Challenge is a local favorite, which has visitors climbing to the top of the three highest dunes in the park. Bird watchers will also find this park a paradise, especially during the spring and fall migrations, with the Great Marsh Trail being a hotspot for viewing a variety of bird species.
Where to Stay
Located just 10 miles from Indiana Dunes National Park, Lakeshore Camp Resort features full hookup campsites and cabin rentals open to general campers, within a 940-site membership park. Guests can enjoy a wide range of amenities including a 22-acre lake, four swimming pools, sandy beaches, and tons of fishing opportunities. Just a short drive away, you can explore local attractions like the Deep River Water Park, bike trails, casinos, and museums. Plus, with Chicago only 45 miles away, visitors can easily access city attractions.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, located along the shore of Lake Superior, is famous for its multi-colored sandstone cliffs that rise a whopping 200 feet above the lake. The area is a kayaker’s dream, offering up-close views of natural archways, hidden caves, and waterfalls that spill directly into the lake. The colors of the cliffs—hues of ochre, tan, and rust—are most visible from the water, another reason why kayaking is a popular choice. For those who prefer hiking, the Chapel Loop is one of the most scenic trails, featuring breathtaking views of Chapel Falls, Chapel Rock, and the pristine shoreline.
Where to Stay
For those visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Otter Lake Campground offers a great home base in the National Forest in Munising, Michigan. This 92-acre campground provides RV sites with a mix of electric and non-electric options and guests can enjoy the nearby Otter Lake, perfect for fishing and kayaking, or take advantage of direct access to the Upper Peninsula's extensive off-road trail system for some adrenaline-pumping adventures. Just a short drive from downtown Munising, visitors can explore local breweries, cozy coffee shops, and eclectic shops.
Hocking Hills State Park - Ohio
Hocking Hills State Park offers a variety of rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and caves that make it a must-visit for explorers and outdoor enthusiasts in Ohio. Popular trails like the one leading to Old Man’s Cave provide a direct route to some of the park’s most impressive sights, including Ash Cave and Cedar Falls. These trails offer easy access to the park's most famous features, making it a great spot for hiking and taking in the scenic views.
Where to Stay
Perry Backwoods offers the personalized touch of a family-owned, 9-acre campground with easy access to Hocking Hills State Park. At this park campground, you’ll find both full hook-up and primitive sites to suit different styles of camping.
Located near New Lexington for easy supply runs, Perry Backwoods is also close to Jeep and horse trails. Nearby attractions include Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve, Smoke Rise Ranch for horseback riding, and the Murray City Coal Mine Museum and History Center. For additional outdoor activities, Burr Oak State Park and EagleSticks Golf Club are also within reach.
Devil’s Lake State Park - Wisconsin
Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin is known for its impressive quartzite bluffs that tower 500 feet above a sparkling, clear lake. This park boasts 29 miles of hiking trails that cater to all levels of adventurers. A local favorite is the East Bluff Trail which offers incredible views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Climbing enthusiasts travel from all over to the bluffs for top-notch rock climbing opportunities. And in addition to hiking and climbing, the park’s lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, so you’ll have lots of options for adventure during your visit.
Where to Stay
Sky High Camping Resort is located in the Baraboo Bluffs near Devil's Lake State Park, offering a fun and active camping experience with RV sites and cabins. The resort continually adds new features to enhance your visit. It's a great spot for summer camping, with events scheduled every weekend from Memorial Day to Halloween, including hayrides and family movies. Whether you're looking for somewhere to rest your head while you spend your days at the State Park or want a family-friendly campground with lots of activities, Sky High Camping Resort is a welcoming setting for your camping trip to the area.
West, North, Central Midwest Destinations
Now let’s take a look at some of our favorite destinations in the west, north, and central midwestern states including the famous Lake of the Ozarks of Missouri to the lesser known prairies of Kansas. Let’s explore.
Maquoketa Caves State Park - Iowa
Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of Iowa's most unique natural attractions, featuring a comprehensive cave system that invites both novice and experienced spelunkers to explore its depths. The park's caves vary in size from the massive Dancehall Cave with its easy walkways, to the more technical Dugout Cave. Above ground, a scenic trail system connects the caves, offering hikers beautiful views of the natural bridges and limestone formations. Educational programs at the park's nature center provide insights into the area's geology and history.
Where to Stay
Jellystone Park™ Monticello, located beside the Maquoketa River and conveniently situated between Dubuque and Cedar Rapids, offers a family-oriented camping experience with RV sites, cabin vacation rentals, and tent sites. A favorite since 1974, this campground is known as one of the top camping destinations in Iowa. Whether you're staying in a tent, RV, or one of the rental cabins, you can enjoy the distinct seasons of Iowa in comfort. The park features a heated pool and a variety of planned activities for kids, making it a great spot for family vacations and group outings. Jellystone Park welcomes visitors from April to October, providing ample opportunities to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve - Kansas
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Kansas offers a glimpse into the vast and beautiful ecosystem that once covered much of the Midwest. This preserve is home to nearly 11,000 acres of rolling hills, expansive meadows, and diverse plant and animal life that thrives in the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. Visitors can explore the preserve through a variety of trails, including the Scenic Overlook Trail, which offers 360 degree views of the landscape and is perfect for photography. For a deeper dive into the prairie environment, join one of the guided bus tours or ranger-led hikes that explore the rich biodiversity and history of the area. Bird watching is particularly popular here, with the prairie acting as a habitat for many native bird species.
Where to Stay
Camp The Range RV Park in Wichita offers a warm welcome with top-notch RV accommodations, perfect for visitors to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. This full-service RV park is ideally located just off the freeway and features RV sites equipped with large pads, full hookups, and 30/50 amp service, all shaded by mature trees.
Pets are also welcome, so your furry friends can join in the adventure. Nearby Wichita offers visitors a variety of attractions including the Sedgwick County Zoo, local casinos, brewery tours, and family-friendly water parks. The city also offers a rich cultural scene with art galleries, bike trails, and the Great Plains Nature Center.
Voyageurs National Park - Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota is known for its extensive network of waterways that invite exploration by kayak, canoe, or motorboat. Spanning over 200,000 acres, this park features large lakes and several islands that are accessible only by water, making it a unique destination for a water-based getaway. Popular activities include guided boat tours that offer historical insights and wildlife viewing opportunities, and fishing for walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass, which are thriving in this location. If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, paddling through the quieter bays and along the scenic shoreline is a great way to spend a peaceful afternoon. With its combination of accessible water routes and stunning natural beauty, Voyageurs National Park is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience a true freshwater experience.
Where to Stay
Mont du Lac Resort in Superior, Wisconsin, is a year-round RV destination ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The resort offers a range of activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to fishing, canoeing, and mountain biking in the summer. Guests can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding glacier-carved mountains and the St. Louis River. And while you’re here, be sure to check out the onsite Big Kahuna Waterpark, OUTTA BOUNDS tubing slides, and disc golf courses. Whether it's adventure or relaxation you’re after, Mont du Lac is the perfect setting for creating lasting memories.
Lake of the Ozarks State Park - Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks State Park in Missouri is a world-famous destination for water sports, boasting one of the Midwest's largest lakes. The park's expansive waters are perfect for a variety of activities, from boating and jet skiing to competitive fishing and wakeboarding. Anglers particularly enjoy the lake for its thriving bass, crappie, and catfish populations. Beyond the water, the park offers access to hiking trails and horseback riding paths that provide great views of the lake and surrounding woodland. With full-service marinas, boat rentals, and well-maintained facilities including campsites with electric hookups and restrooms, Lake of the Ozarks State Park and the surrounding areas cater to both day visitors and overnight guests looking for a beautiful outdoor experience.
Where to Stay
Ozark Adventures RV offers no-frills camping experience perfect for RVers, tent campers, and vanlifers. This pet-friendly campsite is uniquely situated in Sunrise Beach, surrounded by water, so you’ll have easy access to lake activities and ample places to watch the sunrise. And even though you’re right in the middle of the natural area, you’re also close to local attractions and popular eateries like Franky and Louie's Beachfront Bar and Grill so you can add in some fun with a lively local scene.
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area - Nebraska
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, Nebraska's largest reservoir, is a prime spot for a variety of unique outdoor activities. The wide sandy beaches invite visitors to relax or take part in beach sports like volleyball. The lake itself is a playground for water sports enthusiasts, with conditions ideal for boating, jet skiing, and especially windsurfing, thanks to the steady winds. And fishing is a popular pursuit, with the lake well-stocked with walleye, bass, and trout. For a different kind of adventure, you can explore the nearby hiking trails that offer extensive views of the area or watch the sunset over the water, which is particularly spectacular from this vantage point.
Where to Stay
Holiday RV Park, located near Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, is a great spot to set up camp with well-maintained RV sites featuring full hookups and shaded tent camping sites. The campground is equipped with a pool, dog park, and laundry facilities and its central location offers easy access to nearby destinations like Cody Park, the 20th Century Veterans Memorial, and Buffalo Bill State Historical Park.
Minot and the Badlands - North Dakota
Minot serves as a gateway to the North Dakota Badlands, an area known for its dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife, including bison and wild horses. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the geology and history of the Badlands, or you can venture out on your own to explore the various hiking trails that meander through the terrain. The experience of seeing the park’s animals in their natural habitat is a highlight for many travelers to the region.
Where to Stay
Located near Minot and the North Dakota Badlands, Mellow Moose Campground offers RV sites and tent sites with electric hookups, with plans to expand to include more RV options, like back-in and pull-through sites suitable for different vehicle sizes. Nearby, visitors can explore the Bison Plant Trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching or take some time to visit the Scandinavian Heritage Park, the Dakota Territory Air Museum, and Roosevelt Park Zoo.
Custer State Park - South Dakota
Custer State Park in South Dakota is truly the Wild Wild West. The park is home to a large herd of free-roaming bison, which visitors can often see up close during scenic drives through the park's wildlife loop. The landscape is marked by dramatic granite peaks spotted with areas of open grasslands. Popular trails like the Cathedral Spires Trail offer challenging hikes with rewarding views of these granite formations. Horseback riding tours are also available, offering a unique way to explore the rugged terrain and connect with the park's natural environment.
Where to Stay
Bearded Buffalo Resort offers a mix of rustic and modern amenities just 2 miles from the entrance to Custer State Park. The resort has cabin rentals and RV sites with full hookups, and its close proximity to the park allows easy access to a variety of outdoor activities. This is the perfect spot to book for your South Dakota stay.
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