Top 5 National Parks for Camping in 2025 with Essential Gear and Travel Tips

Camping in National Parks exposes you to the beauty of nature and step away from the stress of daily life. Picture yourself waking up to breathtaking views and listening to the sounds of natural wildlife. In 2025, five National Parks shine as ideal spots for camping enthusiasts. This guide will discuss these parks, essential gear recommendations, and valuable tips to help you make the most of your outdoor adventure.

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is a premier camping location, celebrated for its stunning geothermal features and diverse wildlife. Spanning over 3,400 square miles, the park provides an array of camping experiences. In 2022, it attracted over 4 million visitors, highlighting its popularity.

Getting There

Fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) or Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and enjoy a scenic drive to the park.

Essential Gear

• Tent: Choose a durable, weather-resistant tent, preferably three-season rated to handle variable conditions. Best Tents

• Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag rated for at least 20°F will keep you warm during chilly nights.

• Cooking Equipment: A lightweight portable stove, cookware, and utensils make cooking simpler.

• Bear Canister: Using a bear canister is not just smart; it’s mandated to keep bears and other wildlife from accessing your food.

• Bear Spray: You can rent or buy bear spray at visitor centers and gift shops inside

  
  

Travel Tips

• Book Early: Campsites fill rapidly, especially during the summer. Reserve your campsite as early as possible, ideally six months in advance.

• Wildlife Safety: Observe wildlife from at least 100 yards away. Approaching animals can lead to dangerous encounters.

  
  

• Explore Off the Beaten Path: While popular sites like Old Faithful are must-sees, check out trails like the Fairy Falls Trail for a peaceful experience, it's an easy 5 mile round trip.

  
  

Yellowstone's geothermal features

2. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is famous for its remarkable granite cliffs, spirited waterfalls, and towering sequoias. This park is a haven for nature aficionados and offers an array of camping sites, making it a popular destination.

Getting There

Arrive via San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) with a driving time of around four hours to the park.

Essential Gear

• Backpack: A 50L or larger backpack with good support is vital for carrying your gear comfortably.

• Water Filtration System: A compact water filter ensures safe drinking water while you're camping.

• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit is crucial for handling minor injuries.

• Portable Solar Charger: Keep your devices charged without losing touch with the outside world.

  
  

Travel Tips

• Visit During Off-Peak Times: Aim for April or September to enjoy mild weather while avoiding the summer crowd, which sees an influx of over 4 million visitors annually.

  
  

• Attend Ranger Programs: Join ranger-led activities to learn about Yosemite’s unique ecology and wildlife.

  
  

• Leave No Trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the park’s beauty for future visitors. See our blog post about "Leave no Trace" for more information.

  
  

Yosemite's iconic granite cliffs

3. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is famous for its red rock formations and canyons. A perfect spot for camping, it attracts over 4 million visitors each year. Whether you prefer established campgrounds or backcountry sites, Zion has plenty to offer.

Getting There

Fly into Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) and take a scenic drive of about 2.5 hours to reach the park.

Essential Gear

• Hiking Boots: Quality, well-fitted boots are essential for tackling Zion’s rocky trails. If you need a good pair of boots, check out our Blog Post.

• Daypack: A 20L–30L daypack is perfect for carrying snacks, water, and essentials during your hikes.

• Climbing Gear: If you plan to climb, ensure you have the necessary safety equipment.

• Navigation Tools: A physical map and GPS device help keep you on track in the park.

  
  

Travel Tips

• Shuttle System: During peak season, use the park's shuttle service to minimize congestion. This service transports approximately 1,800 visitors daily.

  
  

• Explore the Narrows: The Narrows hike includes walking through the Virgin River. Be cautious of changing water conditions.

  
  

• Stay Hydrated: Drink at least 3 liters of water per day to combat the desert climate.

  
  

Zion's stunning red rock formations

4. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is a treasure on the East Coast, with rugged coastlines and tall granite peaks. This park provides unique camping experiences and stunning ocean views, attracting over 3 million visitors annually.

Getting There

Arrive via Bangor International Airport (BGR), then drive just over an hour to the park.

Essential Gear

• Rain Gear: Weather can change fast; waterproof jackets and pants are essential.

• Biking Gear: Bring your bike to explore Acadia’s gorgeous carriage roads, which span over 45 miles.

• Camera: Capture the stunning views and wildlife with a good DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) or mirrorless camera.

• Portable Grill: A compact grill allows for outdoor cooking and enjoying local fresh foods. Check out this one.

  
  

Travel Tips

• Visit Cadillac Mountain: Watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, the first U.S. location to see the sun, is a must.

  
  

• Explore the Coastline: Enjoy scenic coastal trails with awesome

  views of the Atlantic.

  
  

• Wildlife Watching: Be on the lookout for seals, porcupines, and over 300 bird species, making your visit truly special.

  
  

5. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is a paradise for hikers and outdoor lovers, with its stunning landscapes, including glaciers and clear alpine lakes. The park offers diverse camping options and sees more than 3 million visitors each year.

Getting There

Fly into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), then drive about 30 minutes to the park entrance.

Essential Gear

• Trekking Poles: They make navigating the park’s trails easier, especially on steep terrain.

• Multi-tool: Handy for various camping tasks, reducing the number of tools you need to carry. This one is extremely versatile.

• Binoculars: Excellent for spotting wildlife and enjoying the sweeping views.

• Emergency Whistle: A wise addition for safety when hiking in remote areas.

  
  

Travel Tips

• Check Road Conditions: Some roads may close due to snow, so check in advance before planning your visit.

  
  

• Plan for Altitude: Keep altitude adjustments in mind, especially if you hike over 7,000 feet.

  
  

• Stay Connected: Cell service can be limited, so download maps and important information beforehand.

  
  

Embrace the Adventure

Camping in National Parks is an incredible way to connect with nature and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you choose Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, the granite cliffs of Yosemite, the majestic red rocks of Zion, the breathtaking beauty of Acadia, or the stunning views in Glacier, each park offers a unique adventure.

Prepare with the right gear and heed the travel tips throughout this guide to ensure a rewarding camping experience in 2025. Gather your friends and family, pack your essentials, and get ready to explore America's national parks.