As the United States nears its 250th anniversary, a selection of notable national park campgrounds is being recognized for their exceptional natural beauty and historical significance. Several of these campgrounds are situated within landscapes that have been federally protected for over a century, offering Americans a chance to connect with the nation's natural heritage.
Yosemite Valley, where the Yosemite Grant was signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln in June 1864, became Yosemite National Park in 1890. This predates the establishment of many other iconic national parks in the early 20th century.
James Kaiser, an author of national park guidebooks, noted that campgrounds like North Pines in Yosemite and Watchman in Zion provide breathtaking scenery, especially during the golden hour, with towering cliffs and star-filled night skies. Other campgrounds, including Blackwoods, Mather, and Many Glacier, are located in forests that, while offering more limited views, place campers close to spectacular natural features.
Top Campgrounds
North Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park
Located in Yosemite Valley, North Pines Campground is one of three in the valley that accept reservations. It is known for its waterfalls, granite cliffs, deep valleys, and ancient giant sequoias. Campsites here are in high demand and typically sell out within minutes of becoming available. The campground is near the Merced River, offering opportunities for rafting, hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing, and photography.
Mather Campground, Grand Canyon National Park
This campground is situated near the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, providing visitors with panoramic views. The National Park Service notes that Mather Campground offers 327 campsites, each equipped with a campfire ring, picnic table, parking space, and room for up to six people, three tents, and two vehicles. Flush toilets and drinking water are available. Additionally, there are 15 first-come, first-served sites offered daily, though these do not include hook-ups or electricity.
Watchman Campground, Zion National Park
Near the Virgin River, Watchman Campground provides convenient access to hiking trails, biking paths, ranger programs, photography opportunities, and stargazing. The campground is named for the rocky peak above it and is surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs that display red and orange hues at sunrise and sunset. Campers can also enjoy the adjacent river.
Many Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park
Located in Glacier National Park near Browning, Montana, Many Glacier Campground is set within a forest of Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and quaking aspen, offering partial shade for most campsites. The area is known for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing amidst towering mountain peaks and alpine lakes. While dense vegetation provides some protection, visitors are advised of potential strong wind gusts. The campground is situated on the east side of the Continental Divide and offers trails for day hiking and overnight backpacking.
Blackwoods Campground, Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park in Maine, the only national park in New England, offers access to a rugged Atlantic coastline, granite peaks, and scenic hiking trails. Blackwoods Campground, located on Mount Desert Island, provides campers with access to mountains, lakes, streams, wetlands, forests, meadows, and beaches. All campsites are wooded and within a 10-minute walk of the ocean. Popular activities include coastal walks, mountain hikes, biking, kayaking, canoeing, and narrated boat cruises.