Top 10 Camping Destinations in the Northeast U.S.
Thinking about taking a camping trip to the Northeast? You’ve got good taste.
Thinking about taking a camping trip to the Northeast? You’ve got good taste. From the high peaks of the Adirondacks to the peaceful waters of the Finger Lakes and the scenic coastlines of Cape Cod, the Northeast offers scenic variety for campers. Whether you're looking for adventure in the mountains or relaxation by the sea, we've got you covered with tips and insights to help you make the most of your outdoor escapades. Read on as we explore some of the best camping destinations in the Northeast and share our favorite finds!
What We Love About Camping in the Northeast
Before we dive into our favorite spots to camp, let’s explore a few unique characteristics that set the Northeast apart from the other regions of our nation when it comes to camping.
Smaller Crowds
If you’re visiting the most popular outdoor spots anywhere in the nation, you’ll inevitably run into some crowds here and there. But in the Northeast, the camping scene is significantly smaller than it is out west, which promises a much more peaceful and personal camping experience away from the crowds.
Weather Advantages
Unlike the Central and Southern East Coast regions, the Northeast region maintains comfortable temperatures practically year-round. Obviously, if you’re winter camping, it can be a bit snowy and chilly, but the summers rarely get too hot, and the nights are almost always comfortable, offering the perfect campfire weather.
Cultural and Historical Richness
The Northeast is where our country was founded, and it shows through all of the rich cultural and historical attractions. This post focuses primarily on the natural beauty of the northeast (which is plentiful), but if you’re making a trip out, it’s always worth exploring some of our nation’s history while you’re there.
Best Areas to Camp in the New England Region
Starting with the New England Region, we’re excited to share with you some of our absolute favorite experiences, along with the very best campsites nearby:
1. Acadia National Park — Maine
Acadia National Park, located on Maine's Mount Desert Island, offers rugged beauty with its rocky coastlines, dense forests, and mountain peaks. Visitors can explore over 120 miles of hiking trails, enjoy scenic drives like the Park Loop Road, and witness the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the first place the sun touches in America
Where to Camp
Big Moose Inn is a picturesque campsite North of Acadia National Park near Millinocket Lake and Baxter State Park. With plenty of lodging options to choose from including cozy inn rooms, spacious suites, charming lakefront cabins, and convenient trailside cabins, every camper is sure to find their ideal basecamp here.
2. Gillette Castle State Park — Connecticut
Gillette Castle State Park in Connecticut is a unique historical landmark, featuring a medieval-style stone castle built by actor William Gillette. Nestled atop the Seven Sisters Hills, the park also offers stunning views of the Connecticut River and plenty of hiking for a fun weekend away.
Where to Camp
Located just over 2 miles from Gillette Castle State Park, Wolf’s Den Family Campground is the perfect pet-friendly Connecticut camping retreat with 213 full-hookup RV sites to choose from and a host of onsite amenities to make your stay unforgettable.
3. The Berkshires — Massachusetts
The Berkshires, located in western Massachusetts, is a region known for its picturesque mountains and historic cultural scene. It draws visitors with its scenic beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and renowned arts venues like Tanglewood and the Norman Rockwell Museum. The area is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and fall foliage viewing.
Where to Camp
Situated between the Berkshires and the equally stunning Greylock Range, Mt Greylock Campsite Park is located right at the base of the highest mountain in Massachusetts. This is the perfect spot for exploring the Berkshires, with 47 acres of beautiful land, over 100 campsites accommodating both tents and RVs, and a suite on onsite amenities.
4. Cape Cod — Massachusetts
Cape Cod is an ideal destination for campers seeking a bit of coastal charm with its pristine beaches, lighthouses, and quaint villages. With both saltwater and freshwater environments, Cape Cod is a coveted destination for anglers and boaters and it’s also one of the country’s top destinations for whale watching with tours frequently departing from Provincetown.
Where to Camp
Located on the edge of Cape Cod and the shores of Savery Pond, Indianhead Resort offers a classic camping feel in a beautiful natural area. Choose from spacious RV sites with full hookups, tent sites with water and electric, and primitive sites for a traditional tent camping experience.
5. White Mountain National Forest — New Hampshire
The White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire provides a perfect setting for camping adventures with its stunning alpine scenery and diverse landscapes. From the majestic Mount Washington to its peaceful forests, campers can enjoy star-filled nights and crisp mountain air. The area is a prime destination for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.
Where to Camp
Situated on the northern edge of the national forest, Jericho Gateway Family Campground is a peaceful, big-rig friendly retreat with primitive RV and tent sites tucked away in the privacy of the surrounding forest.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more modern stay, Pemi Cabins is located on the Western edge of the forest and offers 15 unique cabins on the bank of the Pemigewasset River. Most of these cabins feature either a wood, gas, or electric fireplace and the pets are welcome to come along as well!
6. Isle La Motte — Vermont
Isle La Motte is renowned for its ancient reef structures, some of the oldest in the world. The Chazy Reef on the island dates back over 450 million years and provides important insights into the Earth's early marine ecosystems. The Goodsell Ridge Preserve is a popular spot for viewing these fossilized reefs.
Where to Camp
Sunset Rock RV Park and Campground in Isle La Motte, VT, offers a memorable camping experience with 47 acres of pristine land featuring 80 seasonal sites, cozy cabin rentals, and a host of modern amenities. This waterfront park is perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking and a round of golf on the nearby 18-hole golf course.
Best Places to Camp in the Middle Atlantic Region
While New England gets a lot of the publicity, the Middle Atlantic Region has abundant natural beauty of its own and you’ll find fewer crowds in these areas, keeping your camping adventures laid back and peaceful. Check out our favorite destinations throughout the Middle Atlantic Region:
7. Wharton State Forest & Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge — New Jersey
Wharton State Forest in New Jersey is a camper's paradise with its sprawling pine forests and winding rivers. The Batsto River is a popular route for canoes and kayaks. Nearby, Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is a bird watcher’s paradise. This birdwatching mecca is famous for incredible displays year-round, but particularly during migration seasons. This refuge is part of the Atlantic Flyway where you’ll be able to spot a variety of species from waterfowl to raptors.
Where to Camp
Located near both of these stunning natural areas, Spacious Skies Country Oaks offers a wide array of camping options including onsite RVs and campers, rustic cabins, spacious full-hookup RV sites, and primitive tent sites, many of which feature private picnic tables and firepits.
8. Adirondack Mountains — New York
Calling all hikers! The Adirondack Mountains are home to over 2000 miles of hiking trails and 46 peaks with mountains over 4000 feet that will keep you busy in those spring, summer, and fall months. On your adventures, you’ll also have over 3000 lakes and 30,000 miles of river to choose from. Looking for a winter destination? The Adirondacks are famous for skiing at Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid, snowshoeing through the vast terrain, and ice fishing on the many lakes.
Where to Camp
Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers a blend of traditional camping charm and modern conveniences in the heart of the Adirondacks. This campground features a variety of accommodations from full hook-up RV sites to deluxe cabins and cozy yurts, all set against a backdrop of forested terrain and the Schroon River. Family-friendly amenities include two swimming pools, a waterslide, mini-golf, gem mining, and more. And with a camp store, laundry facilities, and parkwide WiFi, every need is catered to during your Adirondacks adventure.
9. Finger Lakes Region — New York
The Finger Lakes Region of New York is renowned for its rolling hills, vineyards, and eleven long, narrow lakes. Ideal for camping, the area offers tons of opportunities for boating, hiking, and exploring local wineries. The area is also chock full of state parks and national forests, including the famous Watkins Glen, which features some truly stunning scenery from waterfalls to unique rock formations.
Where to Camp
The Finger Lakes Region is massive, and there’s tons to explore, so we couldn’t limit our recommendation to just one campsite. Check out our top 5 campgrounds around the lakes for your visit.
10. Allegheny National Forest — Pennsylvania
Allegheny National Forest in Pennsylvania is home to the Allegheny Reservoir, also known as Kinzua Lake, which provides ample opportunities for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in its clear waters and along its beautiful shoreline. If you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon activity, the Longhouse National Scenic Byway is a stunning drive along which you’ll find numerous lookouts that overlook the beauty of the forest. And for beautiful views on foot, check out the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk, an old railroad bridge that was partially destroyed by a tornado that now serves as a walkway where you’ll find breathtaking views over the valley.
Where to Camp
Located just 10 minutes from the forest’s Southern border, Camper’s Paradise Campground and Cabins is the ideal basecamp for exploring the Allegheny National Forest. They offer a wide variety of accommodations from RV pads to rustic tent sites and unique glamping options like tipis and covered wagons. And with tons of onsite activities like bingo, cornhole, swimming, and live entertainment, your stay is sure to be a lively one.
Plan the Perfect Getaway With Spot2Nite
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