Robert Starke 
Palisades-Kepler State Park might not be the largest park in Iowa, but we think it’s one of the most charming. Nestled along the Cedar River just outside Mount Vernon, this park offers a peaceful escape into hardwood forests, rugged limestone bluffs, and shaded valleys. It’s one of those places where the scenery feels tucked away … Read more
Big Sur, located along California’s iconic Highway 1, is one of the most breathtaking backpacking destinations in the western United States. With its dramatic cliffs, ancient redwoods, and wild coastal scenery, this rugged stretch of central California attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Whether you’re a weekend hiker, a solo traveler looking for solitude, or a budget … Read more
Chief Timothy Park is one of those hidden gems that more campers should know about. Nestled on a small island in the Snake River in southeast Washington, this park offers a mix of quiet solitude, water access, and scenic views you don’t always get with more crowded campgrounds. Whether you’re in the mood for kayaking, … Read more
Located where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, Joshua Tree National Park offers a stark and otherworldly landscape perfect for backcountry exploration. Known for its twisted Joshua trees, massive granite boulders, and star-filled skies, the park has become a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rugged and peaceful backpacking experience. With wide open spaces, … Read more
Why Bear Canyon Lake is Worth the Trip If you’re looking for a quiet camping escape surrounded by tall pines and a peaceful lake tucked into the Mogollon Rim, Bear Canyon Lake is a spot we’d absolutely recommend exploring. It’s not as heavily trafficked as some of the other rim lakes, which is exactly what … Read more
Olympic National Park, located in the northwest corner of Washington State, is one of the most ecologically diverse national parks in the United States. From glacier-capped peaks to wild beaches and lush temperate rainforests, it offers backpackers a unique chance to explore a wide variety of landscapes—all within a single park boundary. Whether you’re trekking … Read more
If you’re looking for a quiet, budget-friendly spot to camp with easy access to the beauty of Monterey, Veterans Memorial Park might just be what you need. Perched above the city and just a short drive from the coast, this urban park offers a peaceful forested setting without requiring you to head deep into the … Read more
Minnewaska State Park Preserve is one of those places that feels like a complete escape without requiring a long road trip. Tucked along the dramatic Shawangunk Ridge in New York’s Hudson Valley, this park offers rugged cliffs, waterfalls, sky-blue lakes, and sweeping views—without the crowds you might find in other well-known areas. We’d recommend Minnewaska … Read more
If you’re looking for a peaceful, well-maintained campground surrounded by woods and water in southeastern Michigan, we’d definitely suggest considering Metamora-Hadley Recreation Area. It’s not just a typical state park—it has that quiet, scenic charm that makes it feel more remote than it actually is. Whether you’re camping for a weekend escape, a family outing, … Read more
North Cascades National Park, often called the “American Alps,” is one of the most scenic and rugged wilderness areas in the United States. With its craggy granite peaks, over 300 glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes, and deep forested valleys, the park offers some of the most rewarding backpacking experiences in the Pacific Northwest. It’s less crowded … Read more