Top fall camping destinations throughout the US

Published in

Inhabitat Unbound

5 min readSep 16, 2019

There’s nothing quite like sleeping under the stars, cooking over the fire and taking in the scenery away from the electronics at home. Summer is the most popular season for camping with fair-weather temperatures in the evenings and rising temps that are ideal for water activities during the day. But camping during fall offers smaller crowds, nicer weather and front-row views to the changing of the seasons. If you’re thinking of trying out backpacking or hooking up the RV, Hipcamp, known as the Airbnb of camping, has pulled together a list of the top fall camping destinations in the U.S. to get you started in your planning.

Southeast and Central Texas

While summer might have sizzled in this state, the cooler temperatures of fall make Texas a perfect camping destination for the season. Head to a state park such as Pedernales Falls State Park to hit one of the hiking trails, or visit Buescher State Park to enjoy the 12-mile paved biking trail.

Virginia

Long known for its natural beauty, Virginia allows you to observe the changing leaves and brisk air of fall while you enjoy your morning coffee. Check out the working farm at Blackwater Birds and Bees near Virginia Beach for a stay with access to 2 miles of waterfront sitting on 120 private acres of land.

Head inland to explore Dinwiddie Farms with 589 acres of lakes and ponds to explore, or Cedar Dam, where you can catch your own fish for dinner. Another option is the highly-rated Over Jordan Farm, a working farm where you can take in the joys of farm animals, nature hikes and majestic views.

Monument Valley, Utah

With a name like Monument Valley, you likely don’t need any further coercion to pack up the tent. Set up camp at Ranchito Feliz as a launching point to Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, famed Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin State Park and more.

Pennsylvania

From the lakeside beaches of Lake Erie to a weekend in the mountains, Pennsylvania offers every kind of camping option for your fall activities. Plan a unique excursion to the Bella Luna Alpaca Farm Cabin, where you can immerse yourself in farm life or take in the nearby Amish culture. Head to the Blue Mountain and enjoy the scenery they provide with a visit to this Blue Mountain Private Campsite perched near the Appalachian Trail, Blue Mountain Ski Resort, hiking trails and Beltzville State Park.

Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons

Popular during any season, a visit to the perhaps most well-known of all national parks is ideal during autumn, with both the trees and the animals transitioning and preparing for winter. There are no shortage of campgrounds throughout the Yellowstone National Park, but there are more unique experiences to consider as well. Look at Ellison Ranch Camp with your choice of camp spots along a river, in a grove of trees or on the mountain ridge.

New Hampshire

The landscape of New Hampshire offers visitors the chance to stay on a farm, along the coastline or in the forest. Enjoy a secluded tent camping experience at Stickney Forest Camp, where climbing, hiking and swimming options are all nearby. Sacred Nectar Sanctuary allows you to take in the views of Whiteface Mountain and explore the surrounding area full of wildlife, creeks, streams, natural springs, lakes and even a local ice creamery.

Great Smoky Mountains

Head to the Tennessee/North Carolina border for a visit to the ever-popular Great Smoky Mountains. Plan your stay in the fall to avoid some of the crowds while taking in the striking foliage. Hikers of all levels will enjoy the endlessly diverse scenery. Check some things off your bucket list with a chance to ride horses, kayak, bike, canoe and see wildlife during your adventure.

Because the Great Smoky Mountains are a national park, there are many options for camping on federal lands here, including backcountry treks that may require a permit. There are also group camps, horse camps and standard camping options.

Maine

The majestic beauty of the beaches and mountains in Maine paints an idyllic fall camping destination. Colors of the season here are second to none, especially with 12 state parks to choose from. For unmatched views, stay at Birch Gate Campsite, about 30 minutes outside Acadia National Park. If you don’t have your own camping gear, consider alternate accommodations at the Hazelbrook Cabin, a working farm that provides organic produce to the local community while enjoying a location one-half mile from the ocean.

Whether your idea of camping includes only what you can carry on your back or glamping in comfort, fall is a great time to explore the country, and these destinations will start you off on the right foot.

+ Hipcamp