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Top 10 Campgrounds in the United States

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Hitting the open road in an RV opens a world of opportunity for travel enthusiasts. There are so many beautiful and exciting places to see and experience in the United States. There are thousands of campgrounds located across the country, but they are not all equal. Being aware of the top ten campgrounds and what they offer will help you next time you get wanderlust and want to visit the great outdoors with your family and friends.

Top Ten Campgrounds in the United States

We have been to a lot of campgrounds in our RV adventures, but there are some that simply hold a special place in our hearts. These campgrounds are all great for families and people of all ages will find fun things to capture their interest. Without further ado, here is our top ten list of the best campgrounds located in the United States.

1. Jellystone Park Larkspur

A Yogi Bear-themed campground people of all ages love to visit. This campground is located about midway between Denver and Colorado Springs and we love everything this campground has to offer. Not only does this campground offer RV parks, but it also offers tons of other sleeping accommodations like interesting cottages, yurts, safari tents, and even tepees. There is so much to see and do at the Pike National Forest. In fact, we have had to plan multiple visits to this campground because there simply was not enough time to experience everything in one single visit. Aside from taking pictures with the loveable Yogi and Boo Boo, you can go geocaching, participate in archery, and enjoy digging for fossils.

2. Herkimer Diamond KOA

Situated in the beautiful upstate of New York and it is a traveler’s paradise. There are plenty of cabins and traditional tent sites to enjoy. You can set up tent, chair and cot real easily in this wide open space. If you love exploring, this should be your next destination. If anyone in your family loves stargazing, the Sky Catcher cabin is the perfect place to stay. While visiting this campground, you can check out the Herkimer Diamond Mines or visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame which is conveniently located about an hour away from Herkimer.

3. Bend-Sunriver RV Campground

An RV campground you simply must visit to be able to appreciate. We absolutely love this campground and have visited multiple times throughout our travels. There is something for families to do all day long. You can participate in a sandcastle contest or go on a scavenger hunt. From canoeing and kayaking down the river to enjoying the fun and adventure of fishing, there is something to do for people of all ages. There are both RV parking and tent sites available, for all types of campers. Bend-Sunriver also offers cabins and yurts for sleeping accommodations. Once you visit here, you will want to go back!

4. Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes

Another campground we always look forward to visiting at all times of the year, but especially in summer. This resort offers amenities for modern-day campers who prefer comfortable accommodations rather than roughing it. We are talking the ultimate in luxury camping with this resort. Picture beautiful cabins with whirlpool hot tubs and you will get my drift. Here, you can fish for trout, paddleboard, canoe, and take part in countless water activities for fun all summer long. There are also organized activities that will keep people of all ages busy during their stay.

5. Fort Yargo State Park

Located in Georgia and it is one of 13 campgrounds that are a part of the First-Time Camper program. This program helps to encourage new campers to embrace the camping experience without trepidation. Here, kids can take Camping 101 classes and learn all the ins and outs of camping before they really rough-it. At this state park, you can play disc golf, swim in the lake, or enjoy paddling a kayak, among many other exciting adventurous opportunities. Staying at this state park never leads to boredom. Make sure you take one of the ranger-led nature walks to experience the true beauty of the park.

6. Blue Bell Campground

The perfect campground for you if you enjoy an old-fashioned approach to fun. From hayrides to horseback riding, there is something for people of all ages to participate in. There are both tent sites and cabins that can sleep up to five people. You can also take place in a Buffalo Safari Jeep Ride and these pick up at the State Game Lodge Resort. These rides offer an unforgettable experience you will fondly remember for the rest of your life. If you are traveling by RV in the winter, make sure to get one with a good electric heater.

7. Ventura Ranch KOA

Located about an hour outside of bustling Los Angeles, California, but you would not know it from its serene natural backdrop. There is so much adventure opportunity here, you will not be able to accomplish it all in one stay. From ziplining to rock climbing, Ventura Ranch is committed to providing the best camping experience. You can stay in a tent, cabin, or one of the unique tepee accommodations which will really make your family feel like they are truly camping.

8. Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave

Yet another Yogi Bear-inspired campground. Who doesn’t love Yogi and Boo Boo? I call this the perfect campground for kids of all ages and I am basically a kid at heart. There is nothing like sliding down the massive 300-foot waterslide or bouncing on the jumping pillow (Too bad adults can’t jump!). There are a variety of cabins and cottages available and the theme weekends are really fun. Our favorite cabin is the Boo Boo Bungalow which sleeps 15 people. You can bring your whole family. This is a campground you need to visit at least once in your life.

9. Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort

Located in Santa Claus, IN and no, I am not kidding! This Christmas-themed campground and RV resort is perfect for kids of all ages, even those 40-somethings who still get a thrill out of seeing Santa Clause. There are tons of things to do here, from mini-golf to visits with the famous Rudolph. Holiday World is located in close proximity to the resort and you can simply catch the free shuttle to get there and enjoy the fun.

10. Lake George Escape

Located in the iconic Adirondacks and it is a sight to behold. There is an adventure waiting around every single bend. From kayaking to tubing along the massive Schroon River, everyone will have a blast. Every night, there is a massive bonfire to gather around and the camper community is always welcoming. There is a full-time activities staff that will help keep the littles active and happy during the stay, so you have fewer worries. I cannot tell you how relaxing this place is! You have got to visit soon.

What to Look for in a Campground

One of the most common questions asked by our readers is how to choose a campground. People sometimes have a difficult time choosing the right campground for RV travel or traditional tent occupancy. There are a few things you should consider when choosing a campground for your next adventure. The following offers insight into these considerations so you will be able to make the best choice for your travel needs.

  • If traveling by RV, make sure there are adequate hookups and parking facilities.
  • If you will be staying in a tent, cabin, or cottage, carefully read reviews to ensure there are no major complaints regarding the accommodations.
  • Look for campgrounds that offer plenty of the amenities you want, along with opportunities for activities for people of all ages. It is especially important to check out the activities if you will be taking small children along for the ride.
  • Checking the safety of the campground is also an important consideration. Does the campground offer security? Is it self-contained without access to outsiders? Being sure the campground is completely safe for you and your family is essential.
  • Check the website of the campground to view pictures and information on what it has to offer. Be wary of pictures though, since they can be staged. Never go by the website alone for information and always check out further information to ensure you are making the right choice.

Conclusion

There you have it, these are our top ten picks for campgrounds located in the United States. If you have not visited any of them, what are you waiting for? These campgrounds are all superior for cleanliness, safety, and the amenities and activities they offer.

Check them out today and start booking your next travel vacation. The United States offers so many things to experience and do, so time is wasting! Check out the above top ten campgrounds and you are sure to enjoy your stay at each and every one. No matter how many times we visit, we always want to go back.

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About the author

Brian

Hi, I’m Brian Bradshaw. I’m a super duper mega hiking enthusiast, with a love for everything that has to do with outdoors, hiking, gear, footwear and more.

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