Backpacking & camping
Sleep under the stars in a national park.
If you're looking to get away for a while (even if just a little while), nothing beats a camping or backpacking trip in one of our parks. From well-equipped, full-service sites to remote backcountry options, our parks are the perfect place to park your RV or pitch your tent.
Come on out and stay awhile
Stay for a night, or stay for a week. However long you want to stay, national parks are the perfect place for a camping or backpacking adventure. Many of our partner parks feature multi-day routes that take you deep into the backcountry; others offer easily accessible, full-service RV sites for your convenience. Either way, nothing beats waking up to the peace and quiet (not to mention the scenery) of a national park.
A few things to consider
Gear up
Backcountry camping in national parks is quintessential park experience. It also requires specific gear and knowledge to ensure your safety and general well-being. In particular, don't forget to bring lots of water and a water filter, along with plenty of clothing to accommodate wide swings in temperature. Maps and navigation apps are essential, as is a first aid kit.
Plan ahead
Always check with individual parks for campsite availability (some require reservations; others are first come, first served), permitting and to get a better sense of the specific amenities they offer.
Respect wildlife
Remember that national parks are home to many species of wildlife, and be sure to keep your food out of reach. Always check with individual parks and abide by their specific food storage rules.
Stay connected
When backcountry camping, let someone know where you'll be, and when you expect to return. Remember that the terrain in many parks is challenging and allow plenty of time to complete your planned route.
Leave no trace
Always practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out what you pack in, avoid ecologically sensitive areas and be respectful of wildlife – and other campers.
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Perfect places to pitch your tent
As always, check in with individual parks before you pack up the tent and head out for a weekend getaway. Still, these tried and true campsites will keep you coming back again and again.
Bonita Campground at Chiricahua National Monument
Bonita Canyon Campground is a charming, historic campground with tree cover and stunning views of the night sky. This is a popular campground with 23 sites, so please reserve far in advance. The campground has flush toilets, running water, and picnic tables. No ground fires, hook ups, showers, or dump station. Vehicle length limit is 29 feet (dip in road damages longer vehicle).
Juniper Family Campground at Bandelier National Monument
This campground has 53 individual sites (accommodates 10 campers per site) and two group campsites (accommodates 10 to 20 campers per site). Perfect for trailers, RVs, or tent/car camping, most campsites are reservable up to 6 months in advance, with some available first come, first served.
Upper Lehman Creek Campground at Great Basin National Park
At 7500 feet in elevation and 3 miles up the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive this Great Basin campground is just a brief cruise from high alpine trails that will take you into the heart of the Snake Range. Enjoy the fresh breezes and babbling mountain stream nearby.
Where to go
Explore parks for backpacking & camping
Legend
- Partner Park
- Gateway City
