Nestled at the base of scenic Mount McKinley, Denali National Park is a nature lover's dream. The Alaskan-based park is host to numerous birds, bears, foxes and other critters, and boasts half a dozen campgrounds spread around its six million acres of breathtaking countryside.
Big Basin State Park, about 25 miles north of Santa Cruz, California, is an oasis of towering redwoods with nearly 150 sites divided amongst four camping areas. The sites are nicely spaced so you don't notice your neighbors too much, and waterfalls await among other great scenery on the many hiking trails.
Maine is known for its amazing outdoors and great campgrounds, and one of the best is undoubtedly North Country Rivers Cabins and Camping, located near Bingham. The area offers superb whitewater rafting, and there are biking, fishing, swimming and bird-watching opportunities as well. The campground includes platform-mounted canvas tents, and you won't have to rough it too much with the nearby restaurant and tavern.
North Campground in Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah) provides a wealth of trees and is close to the scenic Rim Trail. The colorful rocks of this "natural amphitheater" and its unique "hoodoo" spires are unforgettable-though you'll have to rough it a bit here as there is no running water or electricity-although a nearby general store comes in handy for drinks and snacks.
Costanoa is a serene and seductive eco-escape only an hour north of San Francisco on Highway 1. The tent bungalows are built from canvas with a wooden frame, and guests can also enjoy a sauna and an al fresco fireplace. An outdoor hot tub is also available.
Sandy Shores Campground in Mears, Michigan might not be the most remote campground you'll ever visit, but it does have a wealth of activities and top-notch facilities. Set on the shores of Silver Lake, the campground adjoins Silver Lake State Park and has its own stretch of sandy private beach; among the options for fun are hiking on the sand dunes, swimming in the large pool or lake, shooting some hoops, or just chilling on the beach with some snacks from the nearby grocery store.
Kipahula Campground is a no-frills site on Southeast Maui perched on a low, grassy bluff overlooking the ocean. Warm ocean winds, great views and proximity to the Seven Sacred Pools (a short hike away) are major pluses here.
The Oregon Coast is a magnificent place to commune with nature, and Bullards Beach State Park is one of its best campgrounds. Trees and river mix with a great stretch of sand highlighted by a historic lighthouse and lots of driftwood; 13 yurts are available for rent in addition to the numerous campsites.
Brickhill Bluff, Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia. offers an island escape accessible only by ferry, embarking from the visitor center in St. Marys. Visitors can choose from swimming, fishing and much more, and it's not unusual to see dolphins splashing about or wild horses at play.
