Robert Starke 
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
Tucked away in western Wyoming, the Wind River Range is a backpacker’s paradise—remote, rugged, and incredibly scenic. With more than 2.25 million acres of wilderness, the range offers some of the most stunning alpine trekking in the Lower 48. From towering granite spires to glacial valleys, the Wind Rivers provide an ideal setting for those … Read more
Acadia National Park, nestled on the rugged coast of Maine, is a dream destination for backpackers seeking ocean views, forested trails, and dramatic granite peaks—all in one trip. Despite its compact size compared to larger Western parks, Acadia delivers an unforgettable experience for hikers and nature lovers. This guide is for travelers looking to explore … Read more
If you’re looking for a low-key, no-reservation camping experience near Boulder, Colorado, Gordon Gulch Dispersed Camping Area might be just what you need. Tucked within the Roosevelt National Forest, this spot offers a more rugged, self-sufficient style of camping—without the crowds and noise of developed campgrounds. We recommend it if you’re comfortable going without amenities … Read more
If you’re looking for a coastal camping experience with charm, history, and live oaks dripping in Spanish moss, St. Simons Island is one of those places we’d absolutely recommend. Located along Georgia’s scenic Golden Isles, this barrier island blends relaxed beach vibes with Southern heritage. Whether you’re into kayaking the marshes, biking beneath a canopy … Read more