Vacationers typically view camping as a spring or summer excursion. However, you can still enjoy the great outdoors once winter comes. Plenty of unique destinations let you enjoy Mother Nature, whether you prefer cold or warm temperatures. Some locations are better to see in the winter if you like off-season traveling. Here’s your guide to the best winter camping destinations.
1. Adirondack Park
Adirondack Park in upstate New York includes the Adirondack Mountains and plenty of fun winter activities for you and the family. The state government instituted the park in 1892 and allotted 6 million acres for people to explore. Its vast land mass allows skiing, hiking, bobsledding and other fun winter sports opportunities. If you like being in the cold, this is the place for you.
Adirondack Park is a six-hour drive from New York City and is an excellent place to escape the big-city hustle and bustle. This recreational area is free to enter because it’s public land, requiring only a small fee to reserve a campsite. Visitors can choose from primitive camping, cottages, cabins and yurts. Besides the park, you can visit this region’s popular wineries and breweries. Additionally, historical sites and museums commemorate Civil War battles, art, maple syrup and more.
2. Big Bear Lake
Southern California conjures images of Los Angeles, movie stars and warm weather. However, Big Bear Lake goes against the grain by offering snow-peaked mountains and winter fun. The main attraction of this area is the skiing, with opportunities at Bear Mountain and the Snow Summit. If you don’t want to ski, you can go snow tubing and snowshoeing through the park. The zip line is a popular attraction with unforgettable views of Bear Lake.
Big Bear Lake is an easy trip for first-timers because it offers outdoor tours. Visitors can choose between a relaxing horseback ride through the park or a 4×4 Jeep excursion through the Big Bear Off-Road Experience. If you want a break from the cold, head inside and take advantage of the Big Bear Bowling Barn, escape rooms, Gold Rush Mining Adventures and the local breweries. Big Bear also features Hollywood Studios at Santa Land for family-friendly fun.
3. Death Valley National Park
It’s no secret that Death Valley gets hot in the summer. In July 1913, scientists recorded a temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit — the hottest surface temperature the world has ever seen. Despite the scorching heat, Death Valley National Park is still visitable once temperatures cool down in the winter. This season brings some snow to the mountains and a much-needed reprieve from the heat for visitors.
Winter is when Death Valley National Park sees the most crowds, but it’s not surprising due to the abundance of seasonal activities. Take advantage of the cooler weather and backpack across the valley, hike to Telescope Peak and watch the beautiful sunsets every night. “Star Wars” fans will appreciate the locations where George Lucas and his team filmed scenes for episodes IV and VI.
Death Valley National Park offers primitive and developed campgrounds, so make your reservations early due to the higher demand in winter. After staying in Death Valley, some visitors head to Las Vegas because it’s only a two-hour drive.
4. Dry Tortugas National Park
Heading south for the winter is a common practice if you like warmer temperatures. How far can you go in the United States? Key West is the southernmost point of the lower 48 states, and Dry Tortuga National Park is 70 miles west. This park is among America’s most remote because you must use a boat or plane to access the area.
Dry Tortugas National Park is famous for Fort Jefferson — a gigantic brick structure home to the United States military. Here, you’ll get unmatched opportunities with snorkeling, swimming and diving in the Gulf of Mexico’s clear waters. Take the Yankee Freedom Ferry for a relaxing boat trip around the park, and end your day by camping in Dry Tortugas. Campers must head to Garden Key — the same island where Fort Jefferson resides — and find a site early because they’re on a first-come, first-served basis.
5. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is another example of parks being more comfortable in winter. Florida summers bring heat, humidity and storms that can ruin your Miami fun. However, the winter brings cooler and drier weather to improve your stay. While in South Florida, head to Everglades National Park to view wildlife you can’t see anywhere else. Winter also means you’ll worry less about pesky mosquitoes and flies.
At Everglades National Park, you’ll see alligators, crocodiles, snapping turtles, manatees and other wildlife unique to the Sunshine State. Other popular Everglades activities include fishing, kayaking, bird-watching, cycling and slough slogging. Camping is available year-round, with primitive and RV spaces in designated areas. The park offers discounts to seniors and active and retired military for whichever camping option you choose.
6. F.D. Roosevelt State Park
History and outdoor lovers pair their interests at F.D. Roosevelt State Park in West Georgia. About 40 miles north of Columbus, Georgia, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is an excellent winter camping destination because of its cool seasonal temperatures. Snow can come occasionally, but it’s not common in this Southeastern location.
This park is Georgia’s largest, measuring about 9,000 acres with 40 miles of trails. F.D. Roosevelt State Park features horseback riding, fishing, boating and paddling, geocaching and bird-watching. You can even plan your wedding here with approval from park leadership. The state park provides easy access to Pine Mountain, Callaway Gardens and Wild Animal Safari, giving everybody something to look forward to.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park has 115 campsites available for your tent, trailers and RVs. Group camping, group shelters and backcountry campsites are also at the park, and you’ll need to call to ensure availability. Additionally, you can enjoy access to Lake Delanor, Mountain Creek Lake and other bodies of water in the area.
A 20-minute drive from the park takes you to Warm Springs, Georgia, where President Franklin Delano Roosevelt spent vacation time. This area commemorates the 32nd president with the Little White House and Roosevelt Historic Pools & Warm Springs.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you want unforgettable views from your winter camping, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best options in the Southeast. This national park is the most popular in the United States, with 13 million visitors in 2022. Most travelers come during the peak season of June through August, so arriving between December and February is an excellent time to beat the crowds while still enjoying the park.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park stays open year-round, and visitors should expect to see snow in the winter. However, temperatures can vary daily, with a 60-degree week followed by flurries. When snow arrives, check out the beautiful frozen waterfalls and try your hand at cross-country skiing. Along the way, you’ll find white-tailed deer, black bears, turkeys and other unique wildlife.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park has numerous options for overnight stays. Here are some of the accommodations you can choose from here:
- Frontcountry: Frontcountry camping is the most conventional option, as it has developed sites, running water and toilets.
- Backcountry: The backcountry is more challenging to access because you’ll need to hike several miles. For this reason, the park reserves these sites for backpackers.
- Horse camps: Horseback riding is popular here, so the horse camps provide hitch racks and small campgrounds for these visitors.
- Group camps: If your party has eight or more people, head to the group campgrounds near the frontcountry sites.
8. Gulf State Park
The Gulf of Mexico coastline stretches from Texas to Florida, providing ample opportunities for winter beach fun. Gulf Shores, Alabama, is one of the most popular destinations along the coast because of its white-sand beaches and plenty of outdoor activities for everyone. Even when the crowds leave after summer, you can still have a great time winter camping in the area’s mild climate.
Head to Gulf State Park, just east of the city of Gulf Shores, to reach Gulf State Park. Here, you’ll choose among the park’s campgrounds, The Cabins, Eagle Cottages or The Lodge for your accommodations. The camping facilities come with full hookups for your water and electricity needs. Plus, you’ll get picnic tables and grill tops for whipping up tasty campfire food.
Gulf State Park is an ideal winter camping destination if you want a middle ground for the climate. The mornings might be chilly, but the afternoons typically bring sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Camping here provides proximity to Gulf Shores public beaches, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and other interactive activities for the family.
9. Harris Beach State Park
The Pacific Ocean is famous for its tranquil waters, and you can indulge in this tranquility at Harris Beach State Park. Located just 30 minutes north of Crescent City, California, Harris Beach State Park rests near the California-Oregon border on the Beaver State’s side. This site is famous for observing gray whale migration along the Pacific Coast along with California sea lions, harbor seals and other unique wildlife.
Visiting the park gives you proximity to popular attractions like McVay Rock and the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. This 12-mile trail takes you along the Pacific Coast and provides incredible ocean views. Whaleshead Beach, Cape Ferrelo Viewpoint and Arch Rock are only a few scenic locations within the path. Harris Beach State Park is also close to Brookings, Oregon, known for its annual azalea festival on Memorial Day Weekend.
Harris Beach State Park permits winter camping if you head to the C loop. While sites are on a first-come, first-served basis, the park lets you book your trip up to six months in advance. Only the yurts require a reservation throughout the year, so prepare wisely for your vacation.
10. Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods, Minnesota, provides the ultimate winter camping experience if you want frigid temperatures and snow. This recreational area is near the Canadian border and only a three-hour drive from Winnipeg. Summertime brings fun in the sun, but winter is when you ride snowmobiles through the Lake of the Woods and Beltrami State Forest. Most Minnesota trails are free to enter if you have a valid pass.
Another favorite activity in Lake of the Woods is ice fishing. You’ll pick from over 5,000 fish houses around the lake on top of 3 feet of snow daily. Have you ever wanted to catch a walleye? Lake of the Woods calls itself the walleye capital of the world, with plenty of opportunities to get your first. This area also has downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and wildlife viewing.
Camping at Lake of the Woods is possible on the South Shore, Northwest Angle and the Rainy River. Most lodging options feature cabins with heating, generator-friendly outlets and various amenities for ice fishing.
11. New Orleans RV Resort & Marina
Not many southern cities are more fun than New Orleans, Louisiana. The Big Easy is famous for jazz, Bourbon Street, the Saints, Mardi Gras parades and beignets all year. Being in New Orleans means you’re close to the Mississippi River, multiple lakes and the Gulf of Mexico. Head to the French Quarter for unforgettable music, cuisine and architecture.
The New Orleans RV Resort and Marina near Lake Pontchartrain offers excellent winter camping. This area is a casual park for your RV and boating cravings and is next to Pontchartrain Park. Here, you can park your RV, board a floating home or stay in one of the beautiful waterfront villas.
The resort is only 12 minutes from the French Quarter, making it a convenient winter camping site. New Orleans stays mild throughout the season, with temperatures typically remaining in the high 50s and 60s. The city sees snow, but this weather event is rare for southern Louisiana.
12. Ocean Grove RV Resort
Traveling to St. Augustine, Florida, is like entering a time machine. The city is the oldest European-founded city in America, with Spain establishing the town in 1565. St. Augustine is charming with its beautiful architecture, historical sites and fun activities. Visit Castillo de San Marcos to see the oldest brick structure in the U.S. and the St. Augustine Alligator Farm for family fun. Head to the nearby Ocean Grove RV Resort when the day is over.
Ocean Grove RV Resort is only a few blocks from the Atlantic Ocean, making it convenient for those who want beach fun. Temperatures in St. Augustine remain mild during the winter, but the resort features a hot tub, heated bathhouses and heated swimming pools. Bring your RV to the campgrounds or rent a model home for your accommodations.
13. Provo River Resort
Utah is among America’s most scenic states, from the beautiful salt flats to the majestic mountains you can see from Salt Lake City. Provo is just south of the state capital, conveniently located by Utah Lake and Provo Bay. The Provo River is a popular winter camping destination because its gorgeous aesthetics make you feel like you’re in a Christmas movie. Plus, there are fantastic fishing opportunities despite the colder temperatures.
The Provo River features numerous types of trout, including rainbow, brown, brook and cutthroat in various sections. Depending on what part of the river you’re using, you’ll also find stoneflies, mayflies and crustaceans. Another perk of being in the Provo River is its cleanliness. The water is clean enough to be used as drinking water for numerous towns along its banks. Despite the colder temperatures, the Provo River remains above freezing and permits fishing.
Camping in this area will take you to Provo River Resort, a short drive from Provo. Here, you can access the lower part of the river from your campsite and the Deer Creek Dam Trailhead. The Provo River Resort also offers biking trails, kayaking and zip lining for a family-friendly experience. RV and primitive camping sites are available here, with electricity and water hookups across the park.
14. Savannah South KOA
Savannah, Georgia, is another location where you can get mild winters that are not too warm or cold. This Southeast Georgia town is full of charm and things to do for the whole family. Check out the haunted buildings in the late fall and early winter. Plus, Fort James Jackson is an excellent educational site for learning about the War of 1812 and the American Civil War.
While in Savannah, take advantage of nature by staying at the Savannah South KOA campground, located just south of the city in Richmond Hill. This campsite features a dog park, fishing, propane, firewood and a tour shuttle to help campers. At this holiday campground, you can pick between primitive camping, deluxe cabins or RV sites with patios. Plus, there are meeting facilities for large group gatherings.
15. Verde Ranch RV Resort
Travel 90 miles north of Phoenix to arrive in Camp Verde, Arizona. The small town is home to Verde Ranch RV Resort, one of the premier winter camping destinations in the Southwest. Verde Ranch is open year-round but is most popular in the winter when temperatures are cooler. While it’s an RV resort, Verde Ranch offers furnished cabins with central air and heating to stay comfortable. Even in the desert, you’ll face cold temperatures at night.
Verde Ranch RV Resort also offers glamorous camping (glamping) through its luxurious wagons. You’ll taste the Wild West inside these vehicles while remaining comfortable, considering each has air conditioning and heaters, a fridge, Wi-Fi and other amenities. While camping, check out the horseback riding tours, zip lines, vineyards and wildlife park only a few miles from the RV resort.
16. Warren Dunes State Park
Midwesterners laud Lake Michigan for the summer fun it brings, but there’s plenty to do at Warren Dunes State Park in the winter. Just 80 miles from Chicago, this state park has six miles of hiking trails and three miles of shoreline, with dune formations taking you high above Lake Michigan.
Late in the year, Warren Dunes State Park becomes a winter wonderland with ice fishing, sledding, snowboarding and other winter sports. Plus, you can hang glide and view the park’s native wildlife during your adventure. You’ll need a Michigan Recreation Passport to enter the park, which Michiganders can get through license renewal. Non-residents can get a daily pass in advance to speed up the lines at state parks.
Warren Dunes State Park has four campgrounds around the facility. The Hildebrandt and Mt. Randall campgrounds are the most plentiful, with over 200 sites. The rustic mini cabins and youth group campgrounds are also available for campers upon request.
17. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers because of its postcard-worthy views and fantastic biodiversity. Established in 1890, Yosemite is one of America’s oldest national parks, seeing millions of visitors annually. The National Park Service says 75% of visitors arrive between May and October, making winter an excellent time to visit if you want to beat the crowds.
Yosemite National Park is expansive, so you’ll need a few days to check everything out. Head to Mariposa Grove to see 3,000-year-old giant sequoia trees reaching 300 feet tall. The park features 750 miles of trails, guided tours, fishing, bird-watching, horseback riding and stargazing. Winter is an excellent time to snowshoe, snowboard and ski down the slopes as you celebrate the holidays. Plus, there are ice skating rinks and hills for snow tubing and sledding.
Another perk of winter camping at Yosemite is you don’t need a reservation from November through March. The Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona and Camp 4 campgrounds have a first-come, first-served availability. Holidays can make the campgrounds fill up fast, so get there early to get a spot. After visiting Yosemite, San Jose and Silicon Valley are only three hours away to the west.
Winter Camping Fun Everywhere
Winter camping makes some people think of campfires, snowfall and frigid temperatures. While these conditions are typical in the north, you can find warm-weather destinations across the Southeast and Southwest states. Each corner of the country provides a unique winter camping experience, no matter your preferred climate.
Pick one of these 17 destinations for your next winter camping trip due to their fun activities, immersive experiences in nature and proximity to other attractions. Pack your gear accordingly for your destination and enjoy the great outdoors in the snowy season.
Author Bio
Jack Shaw has spent the last five years writing freelance and seeing as much of the world as he can. He has a distinct love of traveling and exploring new cultures. Writings about his experiences can be found on Modded, The Travel Magazine, Duluth Pack and more.
