Best Camping in USA Mountain States Part 3

Glacier National Park, Montana

Why It’s Cool: With over 700 miles of trails through forests, meadows, and mountains, this park is a dream come true for hikers. You may have heard of Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile stretch that winds through the mountains, but that’s only fun if you’re in a car. To experience the majestic beauty on foot, head to Logan Pass and Many Glacier. There are several trails, many of which offer spectacular views of alpine lakes.

When outdoors it is important to protect your eyes with polarized sunglasses:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/coolest-stuff-ever/products/daisy-c5-polarized-military-goggles-sun-glasses-goggles

Where to Camp: There are 13 developed campgrounds with a whopping 1,009 established sites. Most operate on a first-come-first-serve basis, except for three that require reservations. Backcountry camping is also allowed, but a permit is required and you may camp only in designated campgrounds.

When It’s Open: Year-round. Visitor facilities are open late May to early September.

Cost: Summer entrance fees are $25 per car for seven days ($15 in winter). Annual and national passes are also available. Campsites vary from $10 to $23 per night during the summer season. For more information, visit the park's website.

Best Camping in USA Mountain States Part 2

Zion National Park, Utah

Why It’s Cool: With gigantic sandstone cliffs, brilliant blue skies, and amany different plants and animals, this almost otherworldly park is a national treasure. After spending a night in the woods, hike the Kolob Canyons in the northwest corner of the park. The five- and 14-mile trails make perfect four- or eight-hour trips. The longer trail takes you to Kolob Arch, one of the largest (and most remote) natural arches in the world. If you’re traveling in the summer and score a permit ($5), explore The Subway, a unique tunnel structure sculpted by a creek.

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/military-credit-card-knife-11-in-1-multifunction-outdoor-survival-mini-army-knife-stainless-steel-pocket-knife-edc-multi-tool The Military 11 in 1 Survival Card is a set of tools and devices that are a game changer for somebody in a survival scenario.

Where to Camp: The park has three established campgrounds, which are full every night during summer. Wilderness permits are required for all overnight backpacking trips and can be reserved up to three months in advance. Before you go, read through the Zion wilderness guide.

When It’s Open: Year-round. Some services and facilities may reduce hours or close at some point during the year.

Cost: $30 per vehicle for a recreational seven-day pass. Wilderness permits are $10 to $20 depending on the size of the group. Campsite fees range from free to $15 per person. For more information, visit the park's website.

Best Camping in USA Mountain States Part 1

Gunnison National Forest, Colorado

Why It’s Cool: The above picture speaks for itself. Gunnison National Forest has 3,000 miles of trails, 1.6 million acres of public land, plenty of places to fish, and some of the best views of the Rocky Mountains. Don't leave without checking out Black Canyon. It’s an incredibly steep, beautiful gorge that has a killer view of the Painted Wall, Colorado’s highest cliff.

When camping it is nice to have a 100,000 hour LED hanging tent light:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/100-000-hour-led-hanging-tent-light

Where to Camp: There 30 campsites with a variety of landscapes: open meadows, evergreen forests, mountains, and lakes. If you want to get off the grid, Gunnison also allows dispersed camping.

When It’s Open: Campgrounds vary by season and location. Dispersed camping can be done year-round.

Cost: Prices also vary per campground but typically run around $18 per day; dispersed camping is free. For more information, visit the park's website.

Best Western Camping in USA Part 10

Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

Why It’s Cool: The main attraction of the park is the 10,023-foot dormant volcano, the summit of which has incredible views of the landscape and is an ideal spot for stargazing. And don't miss the Kīpahulu District with its postcard-perfect scenery. Just check the weather first.

The best way to take in the scenery while relaxing is in a hammock with a mosquito net:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/ultralight-backpacking-hammock-with-mosquito-net

Where to Camp: You've got a few choices. Kīpahulu has a drive-up campground; the Summit Area offers both drive-up and wilderness camping; and the Wilderness Area allows tent camping and cabin rentals(be sure to book in advance).

When It’s Open: Year-round, though parts of the park close during severe weather.

Cost: $20 per vehicle for a three-day pass or a $25 annual fee. Campsite space is first come, first served, and you can only stay a maximum of three nights per 30-day period. For more information, visit the park's website.

Best Western Camping in USA Part 9

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Why It’s Cool: Normally I only use 1 photo but the sunset was so surreally beautiful that I felt compelled to use 2 photos. This national park is in a sleeping volcano. Take a morning dip in Crater Lake and relish the fact that—at 1,943 feet—you’re swimming in the U.S.'s deepest lake. Scientists say it’s also one of the cleanest and clearest bodies of water in America.

Any time you are camping near a large lake it is a good idea to have a 100% waterproof bag to keep your stuff dry:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/10l-20l-outdoor-swimming-waterproof-bag?variant=5570337800220

Where to Camp: Choose between Mazama and Lost Creek. Mazama is seven miles south of Rim Village and has a few electric hookups for RVs. Lost Creek is tent camping only but has many of the same amenities. Backcountry camping is also allowed, but campers must get a permit from the Park Headquarters, visitor center, or ranger station.

When It’s Open: Mazama is open June 3 to October 9, while Lost Creek ranges early July to mid-October. Backcountry camping has a shorter time frame due to snow, but you can typically visit mid-July through September.

Cost: Mazama is $22 per night for tent sites, $31 per night for RV sites ($35 for ones with the electric hookup). Lost Creek is $10 per night. For more information, visit the park's website.

Best Western Camping in USA Part 8

Olympic National Park, Washington

Why It’s Cool: You'll see three different ecosystems in one park. Head to the Quinault Rain Forest (one of only three in the Western Hemisphere) to see the largest Sitka spruce tree in the world. There’s a 30-mile road that loops through the rain forest, but we think hiking is a better option. End your trip at Ruby Beach, where you can see mountains, glaciers, and rain forests right from the shore—or at La Push, the northernmost beach in Washington, where you can view whales off the coast during migration season.

Where to Camp: The park has 16 National Park Service-operated campgrounds with a total of 910 sites. Backcountry camping is allowed, but a permit ($5) is required—and sometimes reservations are needed. If you're not a tent enthusiast, stay in one of the rustic lodges.

When It’s Open: The park is open year-round. Camping availability varies, but there are some primitive sites open year-round as well.

Cost: Entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, which is valid for seven days. Campground fees range from $15 to $22 per night depending on season and location. A wilderness camping permit ($5 per person per night) is required for backcountry camping. For more information, visit the park's website.

This Outdoor LED Fingerless glove is great for camping:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/outdoor-led-fingerless-glove

Best Western Camping in USA Part 7

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, California

Why It's Cool: Big Sur is amazing! The photo above is proof of how beautiful Big sur is. Located along scenic Highway One approximately 140 miles south of San Francisco, the popular park sits along the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Once you get your campsite settled, you're just a short drive or hike away from Pfeiffer Beach, a must-see alcove. Just note: Pfeiffer Beach is not a California State Park, so there's a separate entrance fee.

Where to Camp: Pitch your tent along the Big Sur River, which winds its way through the state park, for the best views. There are more than 175 RV and tent sites situated on or near the river, including two group tent sites and a hike/bike site, both of which are free of RVs. Since this spot is so popular, sites fill up quickly. As a result, reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to seven months in advance.

When It's Open: Big Sur is open year-round, but peak season is March to September.

Cost: The camping fee for a standard site is $35. A premium riverfront site will run you $50, plus a $7.50 reservation fee. For more information, visit the park's website.

It is always great to have a emergency firestarter even if it is just to start a campfire at night.

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/emergency-fire-starter

Best Western Camping in USA Part 6

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California

Why They're Cool: It’s impossible not to feel tiny standing next to giant sequoias. Like the sky-piercing trees that grow only in this part of the world, Sequoia’s scale is ancient and epic, and exploring this park is likely to expand your perspective on life. Waking up surrounded by scenery that's both massive and majestic will make you feel like you’re in a world of make believe. You'll enjoy day hiking through the forest and setting up camp in scenic solitude.

Where to Camp: There are 14 main campgrounds in Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Most campgrounds are first come, first served, but you can make reservations up to six months in advance. If you're looking for a more secluded area, most people car-camp, so pack your gear on your back and take one of the narrow paths to a private piece of grove. Or pitch your tent along the Kings River.

When It's Open: It's accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, but July and August are the most popular months to visit.

Cost: You'll pay $30 if you drive or $15 for an individual pass; both are valid one to seven days. For more information, visit the park's website.

This 7 in 1 outdoor survival kit can save your life: 

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/7-in-1-mini-sos-survival-kit-camping-survival-whistle-with-compass-thermometer-flashlight-magnifier-tools-for-outdoor-hiking

Best Western Camping in USA Part 5

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Why It’s Cool: The scenery here is stunning, the nearly 800,000-acre Joshua Tree National Park is incredible. The park sits at the intersection of two very different ecosystems: To the east is the low-lying Colorado Desert; to the west lies the slightly higher, cooler, wetter Mojave Desert (home to the park’s namesake, the Joshua tree). The park also has 10 mountain peaks higher than 5,000 feet in elevation, making it a popular rock-climbing destination. It'll quickly leave you breathless while hiking if you live at sea level.

Where to Camp: The park is home to nine established campgrounds. Some campsites require reservations October to May. The rest of the sites are first come, first served. Backcountry camping is allowed, but campers must register in advance at a designated backcountry registration board.

When It’s Open: Year-round. Visitor center and campground status vary by season.

Cost: The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle and is valid for seven days. Annual passes are available for $30, and national passes are accepted. Camping costs $15 per site per night without water, or $20 with potable water. For more information, visit the park's website.

This Military 11 in 1 Survival Card is a set of tools and devices that are a game changer for somebody in a survival scenario. With this many survival tools on tap at this price and weight, it's a great value in a wallet-sized package:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/military-credit-card-knife-11-in-1-multifunction-outdoor-survival-mini-army-knife-stainless-steel-pocket-knife-edc-multi-tool

Best Western Camping in USA Part 4

Yosemite National Park, California

Why It’s Cool: Almost 95 percent of this park is designated wilderness—meaning no cars, no structures, no roads, and no electricity. After a night spent under the stars, hike up to Glacier Point, which overlooks the park’s famous Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra peaks. The Four-Mile Trail route takes about three to four hours each way. Looking for even more of a challenge? The Panorama Trail is about twice as long.

Where to Camp: There are 13 popular campgrounds scattered throughout the park, and reservations are strongly recommended from April to September. But seven campgrounds operate on a first-come-first-serve basis year-round. Backcountry camping is also allowed but requires a free wilderness permit (which can be reserved ahead of time).

When It’s Open: Year-round. Campgrounds vary by season.

Cost: $30 per vehicle for a seven-day pass ($25 from November to March). Campsites range from $6 to $26 per night. For more information, visit the park's website.

This Tactical Military Flashlight is great for camping:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/tactical-military-2000-lumen-zoom-led-flashlight

Best Western Camping in USA Part 3

 

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska 

Why It’s Cool: Glacier Bay National Park is stunningly beautiful and mostly water: The bay itself serves as the passageway to the inner section of the park, which is (awesomely enough) a glacier. After spending the night under the stars, try cruising the bay on a tour, charter, private boat or canoe. There are no marked trails in the park, so backpacking is pretty strenuous. Rafting one of the park’s two rivers is a great alternative that allows campers to easily tow supplies, but make sure you’re with someone who knows what they’re doing. Park rangers also lead a variety of tours and talks daily during the summer.

Where to Camp: The park has only one campground in Bartlett Cove, which has outhouses, a warming shelter, and safe food storage. Permits are free but required for campgrounds and back country May 1 to September 30.
When It’s Open: Year-round, but accessibility and services are very limited in winter. The visitor center is open late May to early September.
Cost: No entrance or camping fees for private visitors. Reservations are required for boating, camping, rafting, and other visitor services. For more information, visit the park's website.

This 100% waterproof bag will keep your stuff dry whether you choose to raft, canoe or take a boat around Glacier Bay:
https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/10l-20l-outdoor-swimming-waterproof-bag?variant=5570337898524

Best Western Camping in USA Part 2

Denali National Park, Alaska

Why It’s Cool: It is six million acres of open land with unbelievable wildlife, and trails to please even the most experienced of hikers. It doesn’t get cooler than Denali—literally. The central draw to the park is Denali itself, known as Mount McKinley, North America's tallest peak. Still, the park offers hikes for pros and beginners alike: Most trails start near the visitor center and are considered easy to moderate in difficulty. A few trails start deeper in the park, beyond the first three miles of the access road. Be sure to do your research before embarking on any backcountry camping trip here—this park is not for the inexperienced.

Where to Camp: The park has six established campgrounds with a combined 291 sites and also allows backcountry camping with a free permit. Riley Creek is the only campground reachable by car (and requires a minimum three-night stay to reduce traffic). The other two sites are reachable only by bus. One campground is also open year-round, and no fees are charged in winter.

When It’s Open: It depends on the weather. Parts of the park are open year-round, but generally, the park opens to private vehicles starting in mid-April. Summer bus service begins May 20 and operates through two weeks after Labor Day. Fall and winter may bring some road closures, but there's still plenty to do in the park, from skiing to dog mushing.

Cost: There's a $10 entrance fee per person, which is valid for seven days. Annual and national passes are also available and accepted. For more information, visit the park's website.

When exploring the amazing Denali National Park it is a good idea to have a Deluxe 10 in 1 Survival card:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/deluxe-10-in-1-multi-purpose-survival-tools-pocket-credit-card-outdoor-camping-knife

Best Western Camping in USA Part 1

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Why It’s Cool: The above photo speaks to how amazingly beautiful it is. It's a tough climate to trek through, but the scenery is stunning. Tall- and short-grass prairies lie between a variety of rock formations. And be on the lookout for fossils: The Badlands have one of the most complete fossil accumulations in North America, providing a glimpse into the area’s ancient ecosystems. The park is also ideal for stargazing and even hosts an astronomy festival in early August.

Where to Camp: There are two campgrounds in the park: Cedar Pass has some amenities (running water, electricity, etc.), whereas Sage Creek is primitive (bison often wander through!) and doesn't have water on-site. Permits are not required for backcountry camping, but you do need to register before heading out.

When It’s Open: Park and campgrounds are open year-round.

Cost: There's a $15 per vehicle entrance fee, which is valid for seven days. Annual and national passes also available. Campsites at Cedar Pass are $13 per night per site and $30 per night per site with electrical hookups. Sage Creek campsites are free. For more information, visit the park's website.

This thermos is great for keeping your coffee hot (or your beer frosty lol)

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/bullet-thermos-bottle-thermal-cup-thermos-flask

Best Mid Atlantic Camping in USA Part 4

Why It’s Cool: If you love beaches and camping, this is the spot for you, look at the above picture because it truly captures the beauty of this spot. Assateague is a barrier island off the coast of Maryland and Virginia that's covered in sandy beaches, salt marshes, forests, and coastal bays. There’s even a community of wild horses (how exotic!). Enjoy relaxing on the 37 miles of beach or hiking by day, and then plant your tent near the crashing waves for a amazing night under the stars.

Where to Camp: Camping is allowed only on the Maryland side of the island, but due to impact from winter storms, some of the campsite locations have changed recently. Check out the latest map here. From November 16­ through March 14, the sites are first come, first served. Two campsites are also open for horse camping during this time for a fee of $50 per night. From March 15 through November 15, reservations are required (they can be made up to six months in advance) and cost $30 per night. Backcountry camping is allowed ($10, seven-day permit required), but it's only accessible by backpacking or water.

When It’s Open: Year-round. Visitor center and ranger station hours vary from season to season.

Cost: Vehicle entrance fee is $20 and is valid for seven days. Campsite fee is $30 per night depending on season and location. For more information, visit the park's website.

Accidents can happen anywhere and thats why it is a good idea to take a Outdoor Combat Tourniquet Strap on a all camping trips:

https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/outdoor-combat-tourniquet-strap

Best Mid Atlantic Camping in USA Part 3

Pine Grove Furnace State Park, Pennsylvania

PIN IT

Why It’s Cool: Located in south-central Pennsylvania, the scenic park sits at the northern tip of the Blue Ridge Mountains in an area known as South Mountain (it is confusing, we know). The Appalachian Trail, perhaps the most famous foot trail in the world, runs through the forest, which is home to the trail’s halfway point. While only 2,000 people attempt to hike the entire 2,186-mile trail each year (about 25% actually finish), between 2 and 3 million people hike or walk a portion of it. Whether you cover two miles or 20, it’s still cool to say you’ve done it! Have some time after the hike? Check out the Appalachian Trail Museum, located near the midpoint of the AppalachianTrail.

Where to Camp: The forest has a mix of 70 tent and trailer sites (mostly rustic) available from late March to mid-December. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. Backpacking and overnight hikes are not permitted. Electric and water hookups are available for a fee at specific sites.

When It’s Open: Year-round. Campgrounds are open April to December.

Cost: No entrance fee. Backpacking and river camping range from $4 to $5 per night, while basic campsites start at $15 per night. For more information, visit the park's website.

Many campers enjoy using this lightweight backpacking hammock with mosquito net: https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/ultralight-backpacking-hammock-with-mosquito-net

Best Mid Atlantic Camping in USA Part 2

Minnewaska State Park Preserve, New York

Why It's Cool: This State park is located just 94 miles north of New York City, the Minnewaska State Park Preserve is the perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The park sits on the dramatic Shawangunk Ridge, which rises more than 2,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by rugged, rocky terrain. Featuring 35 miles of carriage roads and 50 miles of footpaths on which to bike, walk, hike, or simply enjoy, it's home to natural rock formations, several waterfalls, three crystal clear lakes, densely wooded forests, sheer cliffs, and ledges opening onto breathtakingly beautiful views. Plus you can try horseback riding or technical rock climbing (if you're experienced). The activities are endless.

Where to Camp: Check out Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway for a minimalist (though high-quality) camping experience. The tent-only campground includes a pavilion and cooking area, bathhouse, restroom facilities, and trails. There are 24 drive-in spots (one vehicle per site) and 26 walk-in spots. All sites accommodate up to two tents (and four people) per pad, so reservations are a good idea.

When It's Open: Camping is open mid-May through mid-November, weather permitting.

Cost: Nonmembers pay $38; Mohonk Preserve members pay $24. For more information, visit the park's website.

This Emergency Fire Starter is compact and lightweight which makes it easy to take on any camping trip. https://angrygorilla.myshopify.com/collections/explore-nature/products/emergency-fire-starter