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The Best Place to Camp in Every State

By Emily Pennington

One of the best things about exploring all the best camping spots around the United States is witnessing just how astonishingly diverse its natural landscapes are. In a single road trip, you could find yourself cruising through the arid high desert in central California , then sleeping under the stars in a patch of old-growth rainforest in northern Washington .

Not only is exploring the country’s vast expanse of public lands good for your mental health , camping on them is the best way to beat the crowds to your morning hike and catch an unhurried sunset vista when the day is done. So, as the weather warms up and outdoorsy plans begin to take shape, we’ve put together a list of our favorite place to camp in every single state, including Puerto Rico .

To make sure that our list was affordable and accessible, we’re skipping options found on Hipcamp (a platform like Airbnb that lists outdoor stays and camping experiences on privately owned land) and sticking with the basics–every spot on this list sits within the national or state parks system. Lace up your boots, air out your tent and read on for our A-to-Z guide to the best camping spots in America.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best camping in Alabama: Cheaha State Park

Most travelers don’t go to Alabama for the mountain views, but this 77-site campground flips the script. Meaning “high place” in Creek, Cheaha State Park is set at a breezy 2,407 feet above sea level and provides an amenity-rich woodland haven (we’re talking bathhouses, fire rings, and electrical hookups), catering to hikers, bikers, and climbers .

Best camping in Alaska: Wonder Lake, Denali National Park

Arguably the spot with the most tantalizing view of Denali, Wonder Lake is a wilderness seeker’s dream. Accessible by shuttle bus, this tents-only primitive campground sits lakeside in the vast Alaskan tundra, amidst crimson dwarf birch shrubs.

Best camping in Arizona: Desert View Campground, Grand Canyon National Park

Escape the tourist throngs of Grand Canyon Village and enjoy a quieter, simpler camping experience at Desert View. Located a stone’s throw from the craggy maw of the Grand Canyon , these first-come, first-served sites are a shady, private place to unwind, in the midst of a juniper grove.

Best camping in Arkansas: Petit Jean State Park

RVers , tenters, and Yurt-lovers will revel in the multitude of camping options and creature comforts at Petit Jean State Park. Explore the sandstone boulders of Bear Cave and hike to 95-foot Cedar Falls, before an afternoon kickback in the swimming pool (you read that right).

Erinne Magee

Lindsey Tramuta

Alex Erdekian

CNT Editors

Best camping in California: Upper Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park

Set smack in the middle of that famous Yosemite Valley granite, the year-round Upper Pines Campground is a fantastic place to beat the park’s notorious traffic, because it’s a stone’s throw from notable sights like Cook’s Meadow , Mirror Lake , and the scenic, 12-mile bike path .

Best camping in Colorado: Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Tucked into an elk-filled valley near attractions like Bear Lake and Glacier Gorge, this high-altitude getaway is ideal for view-seekers and avid hikers. Come for the year-round availability, stay for the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountain sunsets.

Connecticut

Best camping in Connecticut: Rocky Neck State Park

It’s true—swimming in the Long Island Sound, fishing for saltwater bass, and hiking among marshland waterfowl can all be found less than an hour drive from New Haven . After a day spent lounging on white sand beaches, stargaze right from your tent, while serenaded by the pops and crackles of the campfire.

Best camping in Delaware: Cape Henlopen State Park

Sink your toes into the sand at this 7,000-acre oceanfront campsite. Beloved by fishers and stand-up paddleboarders alike, the newly renovated campground offers amenities galore (like laundry and a camp store) while providing easy access to the park’s beaches, historic Fort Miles Museum, and tidal salt marshes.

Best camping in Florida: Bahia Honda State Park

Sip your morning coffee with a view of the electric blue waters of the Florida Keys . Bahia Honda’s white sand beaches, frilly palm trees, epic snorkeling, and impeccable night skies feel more like the Caribbean than the U.S.

Best camping in Georgia: West Rim Campground, Cloudland Canyon State Park 

It’s hard to believe that cascading waterfalls, thousand-foot-deep canyons, and rugged sandstone cliffs can all be found in one place, least of all Georgia. But, impressively, Cloudland Canyon makes it happen. Overnight guests can choose between backpacking , car camping, or splurging on a cottage that’s spitting distance from the best views.

Best camping in Hawaii: Polihale State Park

Pitching your tent on the soft sand of Polihale State Park is about as close to heaven as you can get–if you can brave the dirt road to get there, that is. Here, the intrepid traveler (with a 4-wheel-drive vehicle) is rewarded with shaded oceanfront picnic tables, impressive sunsets, and epic views of the towering sea cliffs of the Nāpali Coast.

Best camping in Idaho: Glacier View Campground, Sawtooth National Forest

With striking views of 10,229-foot Mount Heyburn, shaded sites tucked among fragrant lodgepole pines, and easy access to one of the most stunning lakes in the state, it’s no wonder that Glacier View is one of the most sought-after campgrounds in Idaho. Hikers will appreciate the dozens of miles of nearby trails, while water lovers can float or paddle in nearby Redfish Lake.

Best camping in Illinois: Pharaoh Campground, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

From its knobby, lichen-encrusted spires to its behemoth rust-colored rocks, Garden of the Gods is a park that lives up to its name. Solitude seekers will love the panoramic sunset views and the park’s shady, crowd-free campground of 12 first-come, first-served sites.

Best camping in Indiana: Dunewood Campground, Indiana Dunes National Park

The high, sandy hills of Indiana Dunes might seem more at home in the Sahara than along the southern edge of Lake Michigan, but the uniqueness of this geological wonder is what’s kept travelers coming back for over 100 years. Ready to stretch your legs? Explore the park’s amazing biodiversity along the 4.7-mile Cowles Bog Trail .

Best camping in Iowa: Backbone State Park

It’s not all flat farmland in Iowa . Since 1920, Backbone State Park has been a celebrated recreation area, boasting one of the state’s best geological wonders: the Devil’s Backbone, a steep ridge of river-carved bedrock. Hikers can explore amongst twisted cedars and cliffs of dolomite limestone, and rock climbers will love the park’s plentiful steep routes.

Best camping in Kansas: Historic Lake Scott State Park

The western edge of Kansas contains a multitude of natural wonders, like forested canyons, sparkling lakes, and rocky bluffs that dominate the famously flat expanse of the rest of the state. Historic Lake Scott State Park centers around a 100-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by old growth ash, elm, and cottonwood trees, perfect for the camper looking to fish, stand-up paddleboard, boat, or hike the 3-mile Lake Scott West Loop .

Best camping in Kentucky: Middle Fork Campground, Natural Bridge State Park

Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is an area revered by climbers for its flaky, Corbin sandstone, but travelers also come for the magnificent views and gargantuan stone arch. Hike or take the SkyLift to nab that perfect photo, then doze off to the burbling of the campground’s creek.

Best camping in Louisiana: Chicot State Park

Cyclists, backpackers, anglers, and water lovers of all stripes flock to Chicot State Park for its eerily scenic, swampy bottomland hardwood forest. Choose between 198 “improved” campsites, which offer water and electrical hookups, or get back to roots at one of the area’s six first-come, first-served backcountry campsites.

Best camping in Maine: Blackwoods Campground, Acadia National Park

Snuggled into a lush forest of spruce and hemlock, Blackwoods Campground provides a centrally located shady solace for adventure seekers in Acadia . Climb Cadillac Mountain for a spectacular sunrise show, dip your feet into the water at Sand Beach, and marvel at the craggy coastal headland of Otter Point.

Best camping in Maryland: Assateague State Park

Feel the brisk, salty spray of the Atlantic Ocean just steps from your campsite on this coastal barrier island. Pass the days sunbathing, or kayaking in secluded, marshy coves, beside the wild horses who wander the sand. 

Massachusetts

Best camping in Massachusetts: Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

After a quick ferry ride from Boston, campers can revel in the wildflowers, tidepools, and sandy shores of the Boston Harbor Islands. They’re a history lesson by day, too: Explore Civil War-era Fort Warren, before retreating to a hidden beach campsite on Lovells Island.

Best camping in Michigan: Twelvemile Beach Campground, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Few campgrounds at Pictured Rocks come with a lake view, which makes Twelvemile Beach all the more desirable. Pitch a tent among stands of white birch and gaze out at the deep blue vastness of Lake Superior. And don’t miss kayaking around the park’s namesake rock formations—rentals and tours are available in nearby Munising.

Best camping in Minnesota: Woodenfrog Campground, Kabetogama State Forest

As one of the only water-based parks in the system, finding a launchpad for Voyageurs National Park can challenge the most seasoned road tripper. Our tip: Rent a boat from a local operator, and set off for the Ellsworth Rock Gardens and the tiny, deserted islands of Lake Kabetogma. Or, simply splash around in the lake’s warm waters at Woodenfrog’s own swimming beach.

Mississippi

Best camping in Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park

Rich with Native American history, Tishomingo State Park takes its name from a leader of the Chickasaw Nation. Its location in the foothills of the Appalachians makes this woodland park and campground perfect for peaceful hiking excursions and family float trips down Bear Creek.

Best camping in Missouri: Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Beat the Missouri heat by splashing around in the boulder-strewn waterfalls and swimming holes of Johnson’s Shut-Ins. This well-appointed campground is a stone’s throw from the Black River, and locals love the walk-in campsites for their ample space and privacy.

Best Camping in Montana: Many Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park

Though it’s tricky to nab a coveted reservation at this storied national park campground , those who do will be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the Northern Rockies and easy access to mirror-clear Swiftcurrent Lake. After a hearty camp breakfast, get your heartrate up on a trek to Iceberg Lake or the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint.

Best camping in Nebraska: Smith Falls State Park

The misty cascade of 63-foot Smith Falls isn’t the only thing that makes this park great. Water-loving Nebraska campers can tube, canoe, and kayak the Niobrara, a National Scenic River.

Best camping in Nevada: Valley of Fire State Park

40,000 acres of flame-red Aztec sandstone and 2,000-year-old petroglyphs are what make Valley of Fire , near the metropolis of Las Vegas , truly remarkable. Here, two campgrounds boasting a total of 72 units offer travelers creature comforts like shade areas, showers, RV hookups (water and power), and a dump station. Don’t miss the 1-mile hike to the aptly-named Rainbow Vista.

New Hampshire

Best camping in New Hampshire: Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch State Park

Easily one of the best spots for leaf-peeping in October, Franconia Notch is also a brilliant summer destination for hikers looking to hop onto a stretch of the Appalachian Trail and traverse the Franconia Ridge. Set right on the banks of the Pemigewasset River, this forested campground is as close as you can get to those scenic White Mountain trails as well.

Best camping in New Jersey: Worthington State Forest

Worthington State Forest is a breath of fresh air for Garden State residents—and just an hour drive from Newark. Hike to the top of Mount Tammany and gaze out at the verdant, rolling hills of northern New Jersey , before curling up in your sleeping bag on the banks of the Delaware River.

Best Camping in New Mexico: Three Rivers Campground, Lincoln National Forest

With White Sands’ backcountry camping area closed for the moment, it can be tricky to find a scenic alternative that’s within easy driving distance to the park. Luckily, remote Three Rivers Campground really delivers the goods. Not only can you stargaze while beating the heat here (the sites sit at a lofty 5,000 feet), visitors can also take a .5-mile trail to marvel at one of the largest petroglyph sites in the Southwest.

Best camping in New York: Letchworth State Park

Colloquially called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is revered for its striking river gorge, with cliffs as high at 600 feet. 66 miles of hiking trails through noble fir and white spruce await avid hikers, while rafters and kayakers can try their hand at descending the Genesee River. The campground even offers a bridle path for equestrians.

North Carolina

Best camping in North Carolina: Mount Pisgah Campground

Spanning 469 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains to Shenandoah, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic roads in the country. Situated on its southern end near Asheville is Mount Pisgah, a breezy high-altitude respite from the summer heat. Don't miss the three-mile trek to its summit, followed up by a burger and local brew at the Pisgah Inn.

North Dakota

Best camping in North Dakota: Cottonwood Campground, Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Often touted as the landscape that made Roosevelt into the “conservationist president,” North Dakota’s colorful badlands, cheerful prairie dog towns, and herds of bison combine to make the national park a wonder to behold. Set on the banks of the Little Missouri River, Cottonwood Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing, plus fire rings and picnic tables for nights around the campfire.

Best camping in Ohio: Old Man’s Cave Campground, Hocking Hills State Park 

From its deep, rough-cut gorges to its eerie hemlock groves, Hocking Hills is the perfect place for shady walks (and maybe even a little forest bathing , if that's your thing). Old Man’s Cave, named after a hermit who lived in its caverns in the late 1700s, is the most popular site in the park drawing explorers of all ages with its impressive rock formations and waterfalls.

Best camping in Oklahoma: Old Circle Campground, Robber’s Cave State Park

Once used as a hideout for legendary outlaw Jesse James, Robber’s Cave State Park is now a sanctuary for outdoor lovers of all types. Hikers, bikers, equestrians, climbers, anglers, and paddlers alike will love the easy reservoir access, miles of trails, and rugged cliffs of the San Bois Mountains.

Best camping in Oregon: Eagle Creek Campground

Situated in the center of the action of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area , Eagle Creek Campground offers a glimpse into our nation’s history as the very first developed campground in the forest system. From camp, travelers can try to spot an osprey fishing or stroll along the basalt rock formations of the Eagle Creek Trail. Best of all, the famous Multnomah Falls is a short drive west.

Pennsylvania

Best camping in Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground 

Ricketts Glen Campground sits atop a forested peninsula that juts into the pristine waters of Lake Jean. But lakeside hangs are far from the top activity in the park. Meander through beech and hemlock stands, while taking in the area’s 22 waterfalls, finishing at the most striking: the 94-foot Ganoga Falls.

Puerto Rico

Best camping in Puerto Rico: Parque Nacional Balneario Seven Seas Campground

Park your tent just steps from the sea, at one of Puerto Rico’s beloved, crescent-shaped beaches. Soak up the Caribbean sunshine and snorkel right off the sand, then grab a rental car and switch gears for a short drive into the El Yunque rainforest.

Rhode Island

Best camping in Rhode Island: Charlestown Breachway

To overnight at Charlestown Breachway, campers will need their own “self-contained rig” (that's a motorhome in layman's terms). It’s a steep price of admission, but it allows RV owners, renters , and avid van-lifers a front row seat to some of the best saltwater fishing in the country. All sites are within walking distance to a sandy beach, providing breathtaking views of Block Island Sound.

South Carolina

Best camping in South Carolina: Devil's Fork State Park

Don’t let the name fool you—Devil’s Fork is home to some of the most heavenly, mountain spring-fed waters in the state. Set on the tranquil edge of Lake Jocassee, this largely undeveloped park is full of opportunities for freshwater scuba divers , trout lovers, and paddlers hunting for obscure waterfalls.

South Dakota

Best camping in South Dakota: Elk Mountain Campground, Wind Cave National Park

Though the park is famous for its enormous caverns full of boxwork and cave popcorn rock formations, Wind Cave is also extremely biodiverse. After settling in under a grove of ponderosa pines, search for bison herds on a scenic drive, or take in the rolling, golden hills on the Lookout Point Trail.

Best camping in Tennessee: Elkmont Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Set in the middle of the busiest national park in the country, the beautifully forested sites of Elkmont Campground are a fantastic place to set up base camp. 200 tent and RV sites with fire rings and picnic tables make post-hike feasts a cinch, and nearby, you’ll find trailheads for the mellow Little River Trail and Elkmont Nature Trail, both of which are great for trying to spot wild turkeys and deer.

Best camping in Texas: Chisos Basin Campground, Big Bend National Park

Perched atop an uncharacteristically green island in the sky, the Chisos Basin does not feel like Texas . Mountain lions and black bears roam free among the jagged, rust-colored cliffs, and the arid Chihuahuan Desert sprawls out thousands of feet below. If you're looking to hike, the campground’s 69 sites are the perfect jumping off point for the park’s best trails.

Best camping in Utah: The Needles Campground, Canyonlands National Park

Next time you’re in Moab, skip the hustle and bustle of Arches and head to the remote Needles Campground in Canyonlands, where Mars-like sandstone rock formations soar above sites lined with fire rings and picnic tables. During the day, explore the rust-red rocks and otherworldly terrain on the Chesler Park Viewpoint trail.

Best camping in Vermont: Smugglers’ Notch State Park

We’ve got two words for you: fall foliage. Vermont’s got it in spades, and at Smugglers’ Notch , near Stowe, car campers can soak it all in at 20 tent sites and 14 lean-to sites. Summit Mt. Mansfield or traipse along the moderate Sterling Pond Trail, then return to amenities like showers, toilets, and an RV dump station.

Best camping in Virginia: Big Meadows Campground, Shenandoah National Park

Perfect for catching a glimpse of tangerine-hued autumn leaves, Shenandoah is home to over 500 miles of trails, over a hundred of which are along the transcontinental Appalachian Trail. Big Meadows offers many homey comforts (like hot showers) while remaining close to waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and the park’s famous Skyline Drive.

Best camping in Washington:  Hoh Campground, Olympic National Park  

Sleep among moss-blanketed spruce, hemlock, and Douglas fir in one of the only temperate rainforests in the country. The first-come, first-served Hoh Campground allows travelers to spend the night right in the middle of the dense greenery. During the day, stroll along the 0.8-mile Hall of Mosses loop, and keep an eye out for bright yellow banana slugs.

West Virginia

Best camping in West Virginia: Grandview Sandbar Campground, New River Gorge National Park

Of the free, primitive campgrounds offered at New River Gorge National Park, we like Grandview Sandbar best for its easy river access, shady picnic tables, and designated fire rings. In summertime, beat the heat by hopping into the cool water or busy yourself with a stroll at nearby Grandview Overlook before grabbing a burger and a pint at Smokey’s on the Gorge .

Best camping in Wisconsin: Quartzite Campground, Devil’s Lake State Park

As the most popular park in the state, Devil’s Lake has a lot of hype to live up to. Luckily, it delivers. Scramble up rocky outcroppings for a stellar view of the water, hike the East Bluff Trail, or rent a standup paddleboard and traverse the lake. The area hosts three large developed campgrounds, and Quartzite offers the best lake access.

Best camping in Wyoming: Signal Mountain Campground, Grand Teton National Park

Tucked against the shoreline of immense Jackson Lake, Signal Mountain Campground serves up some seriously breathtaking views of Mt. Moran and the northern Tetons. This is a fabulous place to pitch a tent if you’re with kids or new to camping, as it lies in a developed park enclave with laundry, showers, a restaurant, and a marina nearby. When the weather’s sunny, rent a kayak and paddle to Donoho Pt. or lace up your boots for the nearby hike to Trapper Lake.

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The 15 Most Beautiful Campsites in the US

Angelina is a freelance writer based in New York City. You can usually find her on a yoga mat, at the wine store, or off on a new adventure.

Courtesy of Dunton Destinations

From lakeside vistas and coastal shorelines to desert valleys, national parks, and vastly wooded forests, camping across the United States takes many shapes and forms. Whether you’re an avid camper that enjoys getting dirty while immersed in nature, or you want a little more comfort being out in the wild, the scenery and ambiance of your campsite provide an experience that you will likely never forget. If you’re looking for a picturesque adventure, these are the 15 most beautiful campsites across the United States.

Hidden Valley Campground, Joshua Tree National Park, California

For campers looking to enjoy a unique experience in the desert, sleeping under the starry skies and surrounded by cacti and rock formations, Joshua Tree National Park is the answer. Named after the slow-growing and twisted Joshua trees, the park is situated between the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert and is a rugged, picturesque camping spot. Hidden Valley Campground puts campers at the center of the park, encompassed by beautiful desert landscapes while also being close to popular hiking and climbing trails. The campgrounds and park become even more breathtaking at sunset when the colors of the sky are visible against the vast terrain.

Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park, Kauai, Hawaii

Recognized as one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, Nāpali Coast, along the northwest of Kauai island, is a breathtaking destination. The Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park offers incredible scenery, and camping here is equivalent to camping in a remote paradise. Misty cliffs, deep valleys, tumbling waterfalls and flowing streams all meet at sea surrounding this photogenic island. Adventure seekers and campers have the option of spending their nights at the Hanakoa campsite, Kalalau, or camp at Milolii, which is only accessible from the ocean. Hiking the famous Na Pali Coast Hike, kayaking, stargazing, and admiring the waterfalls are just some of the top activities to do near the campsites.

Hither Hills State Park, Montauk, New York

Located just three hours from New York City at the farthest tip of Long Island, Montauk is the go-to getaway for sun worshippers and beach-goers. But Montauk is also an idyllic place to pitch a tent and enjoy oceanfront camping right in New York. Hither Hills State Park in Montauk offers a scenic camping area complete with two miles of sandy beach, a freshwater lake, sand dunes, and oceanfront sunrises. Campers can enjoy all types of water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as hiking the woodlands, biking, horseback riding, picnicking, and campfires with the beachy backdrop of Montauk.

Echo Park Campground, Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado

Situated at the base of towering cliffs along the banks of the Green River, the Echo Park Campground provides a camping experience like no other in Dinosaur National Monument. Steamboat Rock dominates the view. Fremont petroglyphs are located on the canyon walls. Bighorn sheep and mule deer frequently roam through the campground. Unimproved hiking trails lead to the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers. Nearly every campsite in the Echo Park Campground has sweeping views of Steamboat Rock and surrounding cliffs. Campers can soak up the natural landscape and archeological history in this Colorado destination.

Watchman Campground, Zion National Park, Utah

Located a quarter-mile from the south entrance of Zion National Park in Utah, Watchman Campground is surrounded by massive sandstone cliffs, tall rocky peaks, and woodlands of juniper, piñon pine, and sagebrush. Adjacent to the campgrounds runs the mighty Virgin River, allowing campers access to bike trails along the riverbank plus hiking to a nearby archeological site. Camping in Zion, Utah’s first National Park, offers a full range of dynamic geological history, and epic sunsets that turn the peaks bright orange and red.

Tahuya Adventure Resort, Belfair, Washington

Courtesy of Tahuya Resort

Travelers looking for a glamping experience can instantly book a plush and fully-furnished safari tent at Tahuya Adventure Resort on Pitchup.com and explore Tahuya State Forest’s 23,000 acres of woodlands, over 300 miles of trails and freshwater fishing in between relaxing evenings back at the resort. Groups can have their own freestanding tents nestled deep in the forest of the northwest, all surrounding outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and ATVing. Travelers that prefer to glamp have log cabin and deluxe tent options that come with additional amenities to add an extra layer of comfort. Whether camping or glamping, enjoy the greenery of Washington’s forests and admire the wildlife that inhabits it.

Log Cabin Wilderness Lodge, Tok, Alaska

While the legendary John Wayne once visited this site deep in the Alaskan wilderness, there’s more to these log cabins than an old Hollywood claim to fame. Located on a remote 11-acre park, the wilderness lodge is ideal for glampers looking to witness Alaskan wildlife and natural phenomena, including the Northern Lights in the wintertime. Guests can also partake in a slew of activities, like cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing (and there’s plenty to do in the summertime, too, like hiking, fishing, and bird watching). No matter the season, campers can take in the mountain views and frequent wildlife sightings in this Alaskan wilderness, 300 miles northeast of Anchorage.

Kentucky Horse Park Campground, Lexington, Kentucky

The 1,200-acre  Kentucky Horse Park Campground in Lexington, Kentucky, offers campers the ultimate camping experience. At the Kentucky Horse Park, visitors, exhibitors, and campers have diverse opportunities to engage with, learn about, and be enchanted by horses. On the campgrounds, spacious sites with electric, water, and Wi-Fi are just the basics. Campers also have access to two bathhouses, tennis and basketball courts, an Olympic-size swimming pool, and a grocery store and gift shop. Hiking and biking are also popular activities among campers, and of course, experiences with the horses.

Dunton River Camp, Dolores, Colorado

Courtesy Dunton Destinations

Located on a former cattle ranch from the late 1800s, Dunton River Camp is a luxury compound in Colorado that offers an adventure that is more “glamping” than camping. Intended those who want to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing modern comforts, the ranch allows campers their own mountain bikes, access to hiking trails around the property, and the opportunity to get “dirty” but freshen up in their en-suite bathroom with soaker tub and shower—best of both worlds. A large portion of the land is still used for cattle grazing, while the rest is home to tent sites, and the original farmhouse spread out across fields on the West Fork of the Dolores River.

Letchworth State Park, Finger Lakes, New York

Considered the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park is a majestic area to camp, centered around the Genesee River, which roars over three major waterfalls, with cliffs as high as 600 feet in some places. Campers can choose between campsites or cabins in secluded areas, with access to amenities including showers, food concessions, picnic tables, pavilions, playing fields, a playground, and a swimming pool. Many areas are pet friendly. Surrounded by lush forests, hikers can choose among 66 miles of hiking trails, with more trails available for horseback riding and biking. With plenty of activities all in one location, Letchworth also offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, hot air ballooning, and a museum.

Huttopia White Mountains, White Mountains, New Hampshire

 Courtesy of Huttopia

Covering more than a quarter of New Hampshire, the White Mountains are a natural haven for all outdoor enthusiasts, including the highest elevation point in the North East! Travelers yearning for the vast mountains, lakes, and beautiful forests of New Hampshire can head to Huttopia White Mountains for full-comfort glamping accommodations. Located on the banks of a lake near North Conway and less than 2.5 hours from Boston, Huttopia White Mountains provides a peaceful “camping” experience with a full range of activities including hiking, canoeing, fishing, and roasting marshmallows on the campfire.

Assateague Island National Seashore, Assateague Island, Maryland

A long barrier island off the coast of Maryland and Virginia, Assateague Island National Seashore is known for its Atlantic beaches, marshland, dunes, and pine forests. The island is home to bald eagles, seabirds, and, perhaps most famously, wild horses that are descendants of late 17th-century stock brought over by colonists attempting to avoid livestock taxes. The herd now thrives among the wildlife. Camping in the Assateague Island National Seashore includes two campsites for horse camping or oceanfront and bayside camping, where travelers can soak up the breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean with wild horses in the backdrop.

North Rim Campground, Grand Canyon, Arizona

Camping in the famous Grand Canyon, with its layers of million-year-old red rock, is a bucket list item for many—it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, after all. The North Rim Campground, located on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, offers sweeping, rustic views of the canyon, shaded by towering Ponderosa pines and is home to vast wildlife including wild coyotes and deer. While hiking the Grand Canyon is undoubtedly the most popular activity, campers can also enjoy biking, picnicking, and rafting.

Apgar Campground, Glacier National Park, Montana

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Glacier National Park is a vast array of pristine forests, alpine meadows, lakes, and rugged mountains. Adventurous visitors and campers visiting Montana enter a hiker’s paradise when coming here. Located under three miles from the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic mountain road through the Rocky Mountains, Apgar Campground, the largest in the park, is situated amongst the trees and wildlife that ranges from mountain goats to grizzly bears. With day hiking and sunsets on Lake McDonald, guided horseback riding, and kayak rentals, campers will relish in nature.

Orchard Beach State Park, Orchard Beach, Michigan

Situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, Orchard Beach State Park is a picturesque campsite in Manistee County, Michigan, with a stairway that leads directly from the campground to the beach. Manistee, historically a lumbering settlement that has preserved its Victorian atmosphere, is a quaint town with a unique history. A must-do: take the trolley on a historical tour of Manistee and get acquainted with the city. Campers can also enjoy the self-guided hiking trails that are adjacent to the park (perfect for casual hikers), fishing off the two piers, charter boats, or enjoy the beaches along the lakeshore.

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The best camping in the United States

From beautiful beachfront stays to mountaintop sites, embrace Mother Nature at the best camping spots in the USA.

Let's be real: life is chaotic. If you're looking for an escape from the demands of everyday life, there's no better activity than camping—especially in the U.S. Camping culture in America is big for a reason: we have some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in the world, many of which have sites open to the public to reserve for overnight. 

When booking your next adventure, choose from taking in views of the California coast, sleeping on an island with wild horses, or enjoying the magnificence of the Grand Canyon .  Whether you're looking for a spot to pop up a simple tent or prefer more of a glamping experience, we've compiled the best camping spots in the USA for your next adventure. No matter your destination,  b reathe in the fresh air, feel the warmth of a rolling campfire, and get ready to find that  sense of peace and calm you've been craving.

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Best camping in the USA

1.  Two Harbors | Catalina Island, CA

An hour boat ride off the California coast, Catalina Island boasts summer camp vibes with stunning views (and the chance to see wild buffalos). Located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific, the Two Harbors Campground offers traditional tent camping and cabins with access to showers, toilets, fresh water, picnic tables, BBQs and fire pits. You can even purchase your goods from the Two Harbors General Store and deliver your items directly to your campsite.

2.  Three Peaks | Governors Island, NY

Is glamping more your speed? This swanky  facility on Governors Island  has your number. A private water taxi will whisk you away to accommodations like the communal Three Peaks Lodge or a private tent with an en-suite bathroom and air conditioning. And don't expect mere hot dogs here: The on-site chef creates a multi-course, farm-to-table dinner every night. Plus, of course,  there are those unparalleled views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan. 

3.  Kalalau Beach | Kapaʻa, HI

The island of Kauai has plenty of incredible campsites, but the campsite at Kalalau Beach is located at the end of a gorgeous 11-mile hike in Na Pali Coast State Park. You'll be rewarded with a waterfall and beach time before you pitch your tent atop cliffs, which offer stunning views of the island's famous coastline.

4.  Treebones Resort | Big Sur, CA

Treebones Resort in Big Sur has a ton of gorgeous camping options, including yurts and a luxury, solar-powered tent, but it's the human bird nest that lands them on this list. Climb the private ladder to the human-size nest, made of eucalyptus branches, and you’ll discover a 180-degree view of the coast. The nest has a full-size futon mattress, but you'll need to bring necessities like pillows, sleeping bags and a flashlight.  

5.  North Rim | Grand Canyon, AZ

The Grand Canyon might be on everyone's bucket list, but that shouldn't discount the beauty of this natural wonder. If you're camping inside the national park, opt for the North Rim , which is less crowded than the more developed South Rim. Make a reservation via the National Recreation Reservation Service to bask in the quiet and natural splendor of these no-fuss campgrounds. 

6.  Kittatinny Campground | Barryville, NY

The Kittatinny Campground offers 350 secluded campsites nestled in the Catskills Mountains. Set up camp in the thick forest, or adorn your tricorn hat and pitch a tent along the Delaware River (yes, the one George Washington allegedly crossed en route to war). Hop over the river yourself to get to zip lines and paintball at Kittatinny’s Adventure Center. 

7.  Kirby Cove | Marin Headlands, CA

Situated less than 10 miles northwest of the Golden Gate Bridge, Kirby Cobe's four secluded campsites are famous for their waterfront views overlooking the city. Shaded by Monterey cypress groves, the grounds are within walking distance of a rocky beach, as well as a daytime picnic area. Make sure to look out for the rope swing, which usually hangs on the beach, if you want some truly epic photos. 

8.  Sage Creek | Badlands Park, SD

Don’t be alarmed if you wake up to the sound of bison wandering past your tent, as it’s a regular occurrence at this campground located in Badlands National Park . Vault toilets, picnic benches, and a horse corral are the only amenities that are offered at the rural site, but you will get the chance to watch the prairie turn a golden color at sunset, see prairie dogs pop up from the ground and hear wolves howling at night.

9.  Biscayne Park | Florida Keys, FL

Despite being in sight of downtown Miami, Biscayne National Park feels like another world with amphibians and birds roaming the land and colorful coral and fish lurking just below sea line.  Biscayne offers two campsites, Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key, both of which are on islands and, therefore, only accessible by boat. You’ll need to bring your own drinking water, but toilets are available. As for showers, those will have to wait until you’re back home.

10.  Assateague State Park | Assateague Island, MD

This island has it all: beach camping, swimming, surfing, crabbing, kayaking and, oh yeah, tons of wild horses just roaming the grounds. With 37 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of beachfront campgrounds to go around. Just note that Assateague Island has both a state park and a national park. If you want a warm shower, then camp at the state park campground. And don't forget to lock up your food if you don't want the horses to ransack your tent. 

11.  Cathedral Gorge State Park | Panaca, NV

Nestled among gigantic rock formations at Cathedral Gorge  are 24 campsites, situated at the center of several walking trails and picnic areas. Despite the remote feeling and stunning views, the campground is well-equipped: all sites feature grills and electrical hookups—and are denoted as kid- and dog-friendly.

12.  Yosemite National Park | Yosemite, CA

With more than a dozen campsites dotted among the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park is accessible to both novice and experienced campers. Sites like White Wolf and North Pines offer easy access, while there's no shortage of spots throughout the rest of the park, 95% of which is designated wilderness and is open to camping with modest regulations . For the less adventurous, a night or two at nearby Evergreen Lodge  offers all the perks of camping under the big trees with modern amenities on-site. Make sure to book early, as these campsites all book up fast. 

13.  Dry Tortugas National Park | Key West, FL

Getting to this campsite is half the challenge, and not because it's at the end of a remote hike. The only way to access Dry Tortugas National Park , which sits 70 miles west of Key West, is my boat. This remote island is a snorkeling paradise with some of North America's most stunning and active reefs. Hitch your tent at the Garden Key campground, a short walk from the public dock.

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9 Stunning Backpacking Trips in the U.S. You Should Know About

This article on the best backpacking trips in the U.S. is brought to you by Gregory , the makers of hiking backpacks that are tough enough for day hikes, weekend trips and thru-hiking adventures.

Backpack camping—an approach that involves hiking to your campsite, usually carrying a hefty backpack of gear with you—isn’t for everyone. The KOA North American Camping Report of 2019 supports that statement; while camping popularity in the U.S. has overall reached new heights among a wider audience of households in recent years, those new campers are generally drawn to car camping, glamping, and the more convenient destinations. Which means that backpacking continues to offer an escape from the crowds.

Venture out on a backcountry trail in any crowded national park and you’ll find the crowds all but disappear, just a few miles in. If you bring your camping supplies with you, a secluded, quiet camping experience awaits you in the wilderness.

The best backpacking trips in the U.S. span a range of experience levels. Once you’ve collected your gear (with some help from our backpacking checklist ), it’s time to pick a trail.

9 Bucket List Backpacking Trips in the U.S.

Photo Courtesy of William Saunders

This list of backpacking trips in the U.S. offer a range of accessibility depending on your skills and experience. No matter the experience level required, they’re all stunning and enjoyable. Researching this backpacking resource definitely made us want to get away from our computers and hit all of these trails.

1. The Lost Coast Trail —Northern California

Length: 24 miles Elevation Change: 1,542 feet Days: 2-4 Trailheads: Mattole Beach, Black Sands Beach

California’s Golden Coast gets visitors galore, with hotspots mostly south of the Bay Area. But head north, beyond the hillside mansions where the famous Pacific Coast Highway disconnects from the coastline, and you’ll find the Lost Coast Trail along the state’s King Range National Conservation Area. As a wilderness trail along some of the state’s rockiest beach terrain, this backpacking trip is relatively short, but the rock scrambles and sand dunes along the way make challenge and rewarding option for beginners.

Backpacking this trail requires an overnight permit from the Bureau of Land Management, available online from Recreation.gov. The trail is best done via a shuttle service between the two trailheads, as either route is point-to-point.

2. The North Coast Route —Olympic National Park,Washington

Length: 20 miles Elevation Change: 200 feet Days: 2-4 Trailheads: Rialto Beach, Ozette Campground

Positioned along the coastal portion of Washington’s Olympic National Park, this 20-mile backpacking trail is an ideal entry point for inexperienced backpackers with a penchant for seaside views. Backpackers will find a relatively flat shoreline and fair weather seasonally along this trail, ideal for a long weekend backpacking trip on the Olympic Peninsula. With one of the lowest elevation gains on this list, hikers looking to test their distance-per-day will find a perfect path ahead.

Camping along the trail is done at established campgrounds between the trailheads, and no permit is needed for the hike itself. Keep your eyes peeled for tidepools teeming with life, as much of the coast’s rocky shore plays host to underwater life.

3. Lake Aloha Trail —Central California

Length: 12 miles Elevation Change: 1,873 feet Days: 2-3 Trailheads: Echo Lake Trailhead

The Lake Aloha trail, on the southern end of California’s Lake Tahoe, is seemingly custom built for entry-level backpackers interested in a postcard-worthy view. A hike along this 12-mile loop trail takes you along a number of alpine lakes in the Desolation Wilderness, and brings you up 1,800 feet in total. Take a leisurely pace to make the incline portion much easier, and after a long sweaty hike, take a swim in Lake Aloha, where there’s dispersed camping along a ridge nearby.

Since this is one of the best backpacking trips in the U.S., snagging a reservation for camping in the area can be tough—look to plan this trip early in the off-season, and expect to check online regularly for openings. Campfires are never allowed in the Desolation Wilderness, and campers should check out safety tips from the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit .

The Timberline Trail

4. Mount Sterling Loop Trail (Via Low Gap) —Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Length: 28.5 miles Elevation Change: 8,110 feet Days: 4-5 Trailheads: Low Gap Trailhead, Big Creek Trailhead

Situated in the country’s most visited national park, the Mount Sterling Loop Trail offers an intermediate-level backpacking trip to the peak of one of the tallest points in the park. Hike from the Low Gap trailhead in Crosby, NC and pass through old growth forests—crossing state lines into Tennessee on your way. You’ll follow the Big Creek to the summit of Mount Sterling, where you’ll come across a firetower, built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps—perfect for getting sweeping views of the misty mountains. Continue on from the summit and you’ll complete a loop around the mountain, circling back to the Low Gap Trailhead. The total 8,000+ elevation gain is subtle on the majority of the trail, although some points climb sharply via switchbacks as you begin to circle the mountain.

As part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , backcountry camping on this trail requires a backcountry permit from the park office, alone with reservations made in advance for campgrounds/shelters along the way. More information on reservations and permits can be found from the park’s Backcountry Office at 865-436-1297.

5. Timberline Trail —Mount Hood National Forest, Oregon

Length: 38.3 miles Elevation Change: 9,000 feet Days: 4-5 Trailheads: Timberline Lodge

Mount Hood is one of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, an active volcano just about an hour outside of Portland. While many make a point to visit the mountain’s cozy Timberline Lodge, backpackers looking for a more scenic view of this monolith can venture out on the Timberline Trail which circles the mountain. Start from the parking lot of Timberline Lodge and head east or west on the trail to get started; you’ll traverse roughly 9,000 feet of elevation change over about four days. The loop will circle you back to Timberline Lodge, where you should relax apres-hike with a warm drink indoors.

This trail involves a decent amount of trail merges, so be careful when navigating that you don’t make a wrong turn on to various off-shoots. The Timberline Trail can be dangerous when inclement weather is present, as with any instance of high-elevation hiking, you should feel confident that your backpacking skills match the worst weather scenarios you might face. No permits are needed for the hike.

6. Cottonwood Marble Canyon Loop Trail —Death Valley National Park, California

Length: 26-28 miles Elevation Change: 5,613 feet Days: 3 Trailheads: Stovepipe Wells

With terrain and scenery pulled straight from Mars, hiking around Death Valley National Park (or the Mojave desert in general) is as interesting as it is intense. The Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop Trail takes backpackers through a dry and stark terrain, and requires more planning than a typical backpacking trip. The trail, running close to 30 miles in a loop, will connect from the Stovepipe Wells trailhead, and can take about 3 days. As with most desert backpacking, you must plan your trip around water resources—this trail offers a few natural streams at some campsites but water is scarce for the majority of the hike. Along with plenty of water, be sure to bring a water filter to refill when available.

Getting to the trailhead requires a 4WD vehicle at all times of the year, but no pre-planning for a permit is needed. Permits are available for free at visitor contact stations across the park. The challenge of this trail lies mainly in the difficult conditions of the desert, so be sure to read Death Valley National Park’s tips on planning this hike in advance.

The John Muir Trail

7. The John Muir Trail —California

Length: 221 Miles Elevation Change: cumulative 47,000 feet Days: 20-30 Trailheads: (Southbound) Happy Isles, Sunrise Lakes, Glacier Point, Lyell Canyon

Cutting more than 200 miles through central California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the John Muir Trail is as legendary as it is scenic. Plan for close to a month of hiking, camping, and exploring part of the state’s rocky, snow-spotted terrain, with an elevation gain more than 1.5 times the height of Mount Everest.

Getting yourself a backpacking permit for the John Muir Trail might be one of the hardest parts of this trip. Hikers should plan to enter the online lottery system as early as possible, about 24 weeks before your planned trip, or possible chance a first-come, first-served permit available from the ranger station. As well, hikers should plan out resupply stops at certain campsites and vantage points along the way.

8. The Wonderland Trail —Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Length: 93 miles Elevation Change: cumulative 22,000 feet Days: 12-14 Trailheads: Fryingpan Creek Trailhead

With so many amazing mountains to climb and trails to backpack in the Pacific Northwest, it’s hard to think there could be one trail that stands above the rest. At least in elevation, the Wonderland Trail around Washington’s Mount Rainier does just that, circling the PNW’s only mountain over 14,000 feet.

The trail itself isn’t as lengthy as other advanced backpacking trips, but serves as a short-but-tough alternative to many other trails. Climbing over 22,000 feet in cumulative elevation gain along the Wonderland Trail, you’ll enjoy dense evergreen forests and snowy peaks year-round.

The trail’s high elevation is a serious consideration as thin air can wear on hikers who aren’t used to these conditions. Take caution when beginning and ending the trip, as acclimation might be necessary for a comfortable hike. While specific permits aren’t required to thru-hike the trail, a general wilderness permit is required for backcountry camping along the way.

9. The Long Trail —Vermont

Length: 272 miles Elevation Change: cumulative 69,000 feet Days: 20-30 Trailheads: Appalachian Trail Vermont/Massachusetts, Journey’s End Road

While it may not rival some of the more scenic trails in the western U.S., Vermont’s Long Trail offers hikers a look at a stunning variety of nature along one of the greenest states east of the Mississippi River. Stretching 272 miles from the southern border with Massachusetts to the Canadian border to the north, the oldest thru-hiking trail in the United States spares no view of the Green Mountain State throughout. What this hike lacks in dramatic views akin to the western U.S., it makes up for in greenery and ease‚ with a relatively balanced elevation incline throughout. While trail conditions can get muddy starting in the late summer and early fall, hiking through the New England fall foliage is one of the most popular attractions for the backpacking trip. Finishing the trail from north to south or south to north earns you the title of “End-to-Ender,” a boast-worthy epithet you can share at the breweries along the trail .

Planning for this hike is pretty simple; no permits are required for hiking or camping along the way. The Green Mountain Club has maintained the trail since its establishment in 1930, and offer tips and guidebooks online and in print for hikers planning ahead.

This post was brought to you by our pals at Gregory . 

From small day hiking backpacks to top-of-the-line backpacking backpacks — Gregory has you covered!

Related Campgrounds:

• Clear Lake Campground , Mount Hood National Forest, OR
• Tahoe Valley Campground , South Lake Tahoe, CA
• New Melones Lake Camping , CA
• Sly Park Campground , Pollock Pines, CA

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Kevin Johnson

Kevin is the Assistant Editor for The Dyrt, with bylines in National Geographic Traveler and Atlas Obscura. Although originally from the swamps of Washington, D.C., he's now based in the trees of Portland. He's been interested in geography and travel since seeing his first map as a kid, and is now working toward seeing it all in person. You can find him exploring the coastal beaches or a record store in his free time.

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Camping Holidays in USA

Find a Camping holiday that explores USA. There are 113 camping trips adventures to choose from, that range in length from 2 days up to 22 days. The most popular month for these tours is August, which has the most tour departures.

113 Camping tours in USA with 1,196 reviews

• Mountain Hikes
• Hiking & Trekking

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

A great 7 day trip to see the canyons with a fantastic guide Adriann who we had on our trip. Highly recommended!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Tour itinerary was well planned in order to see and hike Utah’s Big 5 National parks in 9 days. Our guide Rachel was excellent and did her best to manage 12 clients, drive, buy food, supervise food preparations and clean up, and break camp. However, given the amount of organization needed for camping, meals and driving required; and overseeing the often difficult and strenuous hikes, it would have been a better trip if there were 2 guides instead of only one. This trip went very well because we were an older group with many professionals with administration experience who pitched in to help the trip go smoothly. If a group on this tour does not blend as well as we did, don’t pitch in to do their share of work, and/or do not have experience working as a-team with administration experience, it may not go so well or more likely be a disaster. To avoid this, better to have 2 guides.

Private Tour -7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Great itinerary and guide.

Alaska Kenai Adventure 9 Days

What a wonderful way to discover Alaska! A memorable trip thanks to the efforts of Natalie, Dave, and Carolina. Infinite Adventures provides a really unique travel experience. Their bus is creatively outfitted to be a traveling home for 16 tour participants. By the end of our journey, we felt like a traveling family because the trip provided opportunities to connect and bond with fellow travelers. The Kenai trip was well-planned. It offered the right mix of adventure and convenience. The company makes all the arrangements. Yet, there are opportunities for travelers to participate in setting up camp, preparing food, and cleaning up. Natalie, Dave, and Carolina were warm, friendly, and responsive to travelers' needs. Natalie and Dave's 3 year old son was an adorable addition to our trip. The whole experience felt much more personalized than traveling with a bigger company. Alaska is so much bigger and more exquisite than I had imagined. The highlight was the glacier visit - other-worldly! Throughout the trip, I appreciated the organization and planning that made our journey from one location to another smooth and interesting. Highly recommend this adventure with this company. ~ Mridula (California)

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Alaska Denali Expedition - 12 Days

David & Natalie (Infinite Adventures) run a fabulous 12-day adventure tour through Denali, Wrangell-St.Elias, and Valdez! David & Natalie, let me just say it straight out - you listen and care for your customers! This is an 'off-the-chart' wonderful experience that was made even better with great tour guides (David and Tory) and a fabulous group of people from all over!! We took advantage of nearly all of the optional adventures that David offered the group; the value of the experience received far outweighed the cost!! Do 'em all and experience this wild country of Alaska! This is not for someone looking for a "bougie adventure" - you must embrace the outdoors, camping, making meals with your group mates, etc. But no fear, my fiance had never been camping and she enjoyed it immensely! You want to experience Alaska? Then, ditch the cruise and join David & Natalie's Infinite Adventures through parts of the beauty and wonderment of Alaska!

Real San Francisco to LA (from San Francisco to Los Angeles)

Hiking and Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park

• In-depth Cultural

Yosemite & Tahoe Sierras - 4 Days

Amazing experience with the excellent tour guide! The tour is comprehensive, a lot of options, free time and surprises :) Next time should bring over swimming wear.. (Didn’t expected to use but many chances to jump in water!/ in June)

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days Camping Tour

Couldn’t possibly be more satisfied with the experience we had! So glad we experienced the Utah Mighty 5 with Nick and Steve of Mountainbased and I would not want to have done it any other way. Hassle and worry free, this trip was a breeze knowing all the planning and driving and chores and research was done for us. The guides were down to earth (literally haha) and funny and knowledgeable - but let me put it this way, as beautiful and breathtaking as Utah was, somehow the human connection and bonding of the group will always be the most memorable part of the trip, and Nick and Steve were integral to the energy and humor required to kindle that kind of experience.

Alpine Peaks, Lakes and Waterfalls Thru Hike

• Sightseeing

Yosemite Escape Camping - 3 Days

Yosemite is a delight 3 days gives you a good overview

Gallatin Crest Traverse

Yellowstone Walks & Wolves - Camping Edition

Yosemite National Park Hiking Tour

Camping usa trip reviews.

It was one of the best tours that I even had. We visited many beautiful places and the tour has the best camping side at the View. I cannot thanks enough for our guide, Hogan. He is very professional, knowledgeable, patient, responsible and kind. I highly recommend this tour!

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

Great way to travel and meet new people! Changes were made to the itinerary due to road/trail closures but it worked out in the best way. CEO adapted meals for vegetarian travelers in the group. I would book with them again!

Regions in USA

• Western USA (103)
• Southwest USA (60)
• Rocky Mountains (48)
• Sun Belt (48)
• Four Corners (32)
• West Coast USA (28)
• California (23)
• Northern California (20)
• Pacific Coast USA (18)
• Grand Canyon (17)
• Yosemite National Park (15)
• Alaska (15)
• Yellowstone National Park (13)
• Central California (13)
• Canyonlands (12)
• Sierra Nevada Mountains (12)

Travel Styles

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• Trip Styles
• Destinations

Top USA Camping Trips and Tours for 2022

• All Inspiration and Destinations
• Canadian Rockies
• New Hampshire
• New Zealand
• North Carolina
• Vancouver Island
• Washington State

Looking for the best camping trips and tours? You’ve come to the right place.

Camping trips immerse us in nature in a way we don’t get in our everyday lives. Imagine returning to camp after a long, satisfying day of hiking through a  National Park wilderness. You mosey around camp, thinking about that giant bison you saw along the trail, while smells from the grill swirl around you. Once you’ve had dinner, you relax by the crackling campfire with your marshmallow-topped stick hovering near the flames.

When it’s time to crawl into your tent, you open your rainfly so you can look at the glimmering stars in the Milky Way as you drift off to sleep. In the morning, you rise to the smell of fresh coffee. Then, after breakfast, you lace up your boots for another fantastic day of hiking. What’s on the agenda for today? With the help of your expert guide, you’re off to summit a 10,000-foot peak with 360-degree views of the wide, open country in Yellowstone.

If you’re looking for a fun, action-packed adventure that melds some of the comforts of inn-based hiking tours with a bit of the wildness of backpacking trips , our basecamp trips may be just what you’re after. Sometimes, you’ll want to hike remote trails while also seeing the iconic sites of our country’s most beloved public lands. Well, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up our top camping trips for 2022 so you can choose the perfect U.S.A. destination for your camping adventure.

what is a camping tour?

A camping tour (or basecamp trip) is a unique trip style that combines day hiking with traditional, vehicle-accessible camping. Wildland Trekking offers these tours for travelers who want a mix of adventure and comfort. You’ll set out on fantastic day hikes with a knowledgeable guide and return to a developed campground every night. As you lounge in your tent or take a hot shower, your guide will be cooking up a hearty dinner (complete with dessert!) You’ll get some small luxuries — camp chairs, cushy sleeping pads, pillows — while also working hard to accomplish some big hikes.

On your day hikes, you’ll carry a light daypack instead of a heavy backpacking pack. Plus, you’ll have access to hot showers, fresh meals, and (maybe) cell phone service.

Wildland Trekking plans all the logistics — from campsites, to meals, to transportation, to hiking itineraries. Plus, we provide you with comfy camping gear, a daypack, and trekking poles. All you’ll need to do is show up ready to hike!

We offer camping tours in mountain and desert destinations all around the U.S.A. Mountain camping destinations include Yellowstone, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Pacific Northwest (Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks.) Canyon destinations include Grand Canyon, Utah’s national parks and monuments (Zion, Bryce, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument), Sedona’s Red Rock Country, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree. Additionally, we offer international camping trips in Iceland.

The top five basecamp trips

Pacific northwest basecamp tour.

This six-day camping adventure takes you to two stunning Pacific Northwest destinations: Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park. Although this itinerary is packed to the brim, you need all this time to take in the sights and sounds at these two parks. The rain that falls in Washington throughout the year creates vibrant green landscapes, raging waterfalls, and happy wildlife.

On the first three days, hike through lush rainforests (look out for banana slugs!), along rocky coastlines, and across an alpine ridgeline to experience the three unique ecosystems in Olympic. Then, head east to Mount Rainier National Park, where a 14,000-foot volcano looms high above wildflower-filled meadows and cascading rivers. Here, you’ll stand in the shadow of an active volcano and even have the opportunity to catch one of the historic ranger talks at Longmire or Paradise.

Can’t commit to six days? We’ve got a three-day option that lets you experience the best that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer!

Highlights: Old-growth rainforest, rugged coastline, and glaciated volcanoes all in one trip!

Potential wildlife sightings: Elk, whistling marmots, banana slugs, black bears, and river otter.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  29+ miles over six days

Best Time for Travel:  July through September

 Pacific Northwest Basecamp Tour

Yosemite Basecamp tour

This camping trip is tailored towards adventure seekers who want to experience both the popular trails of Yosemite National Park and the alpine destinations around Tuolumne Meadows. Yosemite is full of big scenery, and every step you take will transport you deeper into the wilderness. As you travel from your campsite to the Valley each morning, you’ll see evidence of how ancient glaciers carved this granite landscape. After four days in Yosemite, you’ll know both the geologic and cultural history of this unique region.

On the first day, you’ll hit one of the most iconic destinations — the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls. While the crowds are high, this is not a trail you want to miss. Later in the trip, you’ll attempt to summit not just one but two Yosemite peaks — North Dome and Mount Hoffmann. Then, you’ll hike to the Cathedral Lakes where you can bask in the sun on the granite slabs by a glittering alpine lake. In the evenings, you’ll return to camp on the quiet side of the park via Tioga Pass.

Highlights:  The iconic Yosemite Valley views mixed with some low-traffic high country magic.

Potential wildlife sightings: Black bear, coyote, marmots, and overly-enthusiastic squirrels.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  27 miles over four days

See Yosemite Basecamp Tours

women’s death valley basecamp tour

Explore the largest national park in the contiguous United States on this Women’s Death Valley Basecamp Tour! (Don’t worry, we have a general Death Valley basecamp trip for all our guests, too.) This all-female trip (run by a female guide) is perfect for solo travelers looking to join a like-minded hiking group to explore some incredibly unique desert sights. Death Valley is not the most popular hiking destination, but that is precisely what makes it so spectacular. In this unique ecosystem, a guide can come in handy to interpret what you’re seeing. The desert is subtle but full of life, and your guide will happily teach you how to notice it.

On this trip, you’ll cover diverse terrain — from a lush oasis, to striated sand dunes, to the pinyon and juniper-studded peaks in the Panamint Mountains. You’ll trek through history as you pass colorful volcanic deposits, petroglyphs, and rusted remnants from the area’s mining history. At night, you’ll head back to camp to fall asleep to some of the most mesmerizing night skies you’ll find in this country.

Highlights:  The incredible diversity of each trail and the surprising life you find in the desert between the cracks.

Potential wildlife sightings: Desert tortoise, jackrabbit, and bighorn sheep.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  17 – 24 miles over four days

Best Time for Travel:  January through March and November/December

See Womens Death Valley Basecamp Tour

Yellowstone national park

Yellowstone covers over two million acres and hosts over 900 miles of hiking trails, so it’s hard to know what to prioritize when you’re visiting this magnificent park. Lucky for you, we’ve developed a five-day hiking and camping itinerary that packs in both the classic, roadside destinations (you can’t miss Old Faithful!) and quiet, backcountry trails. On this all-encompassing camping tour of Yellowstone , we’ll shuttle you around to sights and trailheads, mixing hiking miles with boardwalks. You’ll see the Mammoth Hot Springs on the same day that you hike the charming Beaver Pond Loop. Then, you’ll pair the Upper Geyser Basin with a fantastic backcountry geyser that ricochets water into the air, painting a rainbow across the landscape. On the last day, you’ll hike across meadows and through lodgepole pine forests to the 220-foot Fairy Falls before ending your trip at yet another classic: the swirling colors of Grand Prismatic Spring.

On the days in between, you’ll summit peaks — Mount Washburn and the Elephant Back Mountain — and hike along lakeshores through Grizzly bear territory. The greatest thing about this tour? You’ll leave feeling like you know Yellowstone like the back of your hand.

Highlights:  Escaping the crowds to experience the true wilderness of Yellowstone. Oh, and the almost-guaranteed wildlife sightings.

Potential wildlife sightings: Bison, elk, grizzly bear, wolves, and more.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  30 miles over five days

Best Time for Travel:  June through September

See Yellowstone Basecamp Tour

the best of Utah (Bryce, Zion, & Escalante)

Southern Utah is home to five amazing National Parks and countless acres of National Monument and BLM land, so you’ll never run out of sights to see. On this six-day hiking and camping tour of southwestern Utah, we take you through two of these National Parks — Zion and Bryce Canyon — and into Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument. You’ll squeeze through dark, narrow slot canyons in Escalante, weave your way through the sea of hoodoos in Bryce, and gain expansive views as you huff and puff up a mountainside above Zion Canyon. When you return to camp at night (in either Zion National Park or Escalante Petrified Forest State Park), you’ll kick up your feet as a reward for your hard work during your day’s adventures.

Want more time in Zion? We offer a three-day Zion-only trip. Or, cut down on driving and spend five days in Bryce and Escalante! On this off-the-beaten-path trip , you’ll spend the majority of your hiking time on less-populated trails so you can experience the solitude of the red rock desert.

Highlights:  Incredible geologic features, including narrow slot canyons, tall sandstone walls, and bright hoodoos.

Potential wildlife sightings:  Bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and other desert critters.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  30+ miles over six days

Best Time for Travel:  March through June and September/October

See Best of Utah Basecamp Tour

Is a Camping trip right for you?

Many types of hikers would enjoy a guided camping adventure. If you love to camp and day hike, a camping trip this year might be right for you. Or, if you want to learn the skills to set out on adventures yourself, our guides can supply you with the knowledge you need. A basecamp tour might be up your alley if:

• You enjoy hiking and camping with local, professional guides to increase the safety and enjoyment of your national park adventure.
• You’re new to camping and don’t own the gear, joining a tour might make practical and financial sense.
• You’ve been dreaming of a specific camping and hiking vacation (such as Yellowstone, Yosemite, or southern Utah). You’ll want to ensure you make the very most of your big trip with a hand-crafted, expert itinerary.
• You’re interested in the educational aspect of learning about your hiking destination and its natural and cultural history. Joining a professionally guided tour provided by a reputable company will enrich your experience!
• You want the ease and convenience of letting us handle the logistics. That way, you can focus entirely on enjoying the hiking and camping experience.

why wildland trekking?

We know the quality of your guiding company can make or break a trip. When you let a trekking operator plan your vacation — including the trails you hike and the meals you eat —you want it to be top-notch. Plus, you’re spending entire days with your group and your guide, so you want to ensure that group dynamics run smoothly. If you’ve planned your dream hiking vacation, why would you settle for anything less than excellence? That’s where Wildland Trekking comes in.

We offer premier hiking vacations across the U.S.A. and the globe. Many adventure companies focus on multiple sports, but not us – we’re 100% focused on the trekking experience. With exceptional guides, fantastic meals, top-of-the-line gear, dialed-in logistics, incredible support staff, and award-winning itineraries, we are passionate about providing unforgettable trekking experiences for guests all over the world!

But don’t take it from us, click any of these trip pages and read the trip reviews so that you can know with certainty that you’ll be happy with your choice. Or, head to Tripadvisor to see how our trips fare in your desired destination. We want you to love every minute of your adventure, so contact us today to get started.

About Hannah Singleton

Hannah is a content strategist, writer, and guide for Wildland Trekking Company. She was born and raised on the East Coast but currently resides in Salt Lake City, UT where she spends her time exploring the wonders of the Rocky Mountain West. You can check out more of her freelance writing at www.hannah-singleton.com.

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Travels with Ted

10 Epic Bucket List RV Road Trips in the US

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

I’ve lived in an RV since 2016, and traveled thousands of miles across the country (and into Mexico and Canda). In this guide to the best bucket list road trips in the USA, I share my favorite RV road trips.

Ready to start planning your own RV trip across America? Let’s get started.

• 1.1 Renting an RV
• 1.2 Finding Campgrounds
• 1.3 Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip
• 2.1 Olympic Peninsula
• 2.2 Utah National Parks
• 2.3 Route 66
• 2.4 California’s Pacific Coast
• 2.5 Blue Ridge Parkway
• 2.6 South Florida
• 2.7 Upper Peninsula of Michigan
• 2.8 Columbia River Gorge
• 2.9 Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• 2.10 North to Alaska

Planning your RV Road Trip

If you already an experienced or full-time RVer, go ahead and skip down to the bucket list RV road trips . Otherwise, here are some key planning tools to utilize before your first RV trip.

Renting an RV

If you do not already own an RV, it is best to rent a rig for your first RV road trip in the USA. A rental RV allows you to test drive the type, layout and travel style of an RV before you make a large investment.

RVshare allows you to rent fifth wheels, travel trailers and motorhomes directly from local owners. They have every type of rig available, and you can filter by price and features to pick the perfect RV.

Finding Campgrounds

After you’ve secured an RV, you need to find places to sleep. Fortunately, there are several great apps to help you find campgrounds and RV parks in the USA. If you are visiting an area during the peak season (i.e. Winter in Florida) you will need to make campground reservations in advance.

However, if you are traveling during less busy times, it is best to leave a few open days between reservations so you can be more spontaneous.

To find RV parks and campgrounds, download the AllStays Camp & RV app ($9.99). The AllStays app has an interactive map that allows you to find campsites directly along your route.

AllStays has the most comprehensive list of campgrounds and RV parks for people RVing in the USA. The app also shows truck stops, dump stations and RV services so you can easily find fuel and supplies.

For free RV camping , use the Campendium website to find no cost RV campsites. Free camping is a great way to save money and find more secluded locations.

However, most free campsites do not offer water, electric or sewer hook-ups, so you should be prepared to “rough it.” If you plan on dry camping or boondocking at free campsites, choose a rental RV that has a generator on board.

If you are planning an extended RV round trip, consider joining one or more RV membership clubs to enjoy discounted camping fees.

Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip

The last step in the planning process for an RV road trip is buying all the gear you need. Review our Amazon list of must have RV supplies and either buy them or verify that your rental RV comes equipped with the proper gear.

I also highly recommend buying a road trip journal to record your adventures and experiences RVing in the USA.

10 Best RV Road Trips in the USA

Olympic peninsula.

Driving highway 101 around the Olympic Peninsula is a short but sweet RV road trip. The complete Olympic Peninsula rod trip is just over 300 miles, so it can easily be completed in a few days.

On the other hand, there is so much to see in this region you could also stay for weeks. The main attraction on the Peninsula is Olympic National Park which features a lush rain forest, stunning mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes and the Pacific Coast.

There are plenty of RV campground options in the area. There are several private campgrounds just off highway 101 and there are 10 campgrounds in the National Park that can accommodate RVs.

Most National Park campsites are designed for RVs up to 21 feet long, and none of them accept rigs over 35 feet. If you plan to camp in the park, make sure to travel in a smaller RV.

While the National Park is the main feature, there are several other sights to see along this route. For incredible views, take a side trip to Cape Flattery, the most northwesterly tip of the contiguous 48 states.

To reach Cape Flattery, first head to the town of Neah Bay from highway 112. In Neah Bay, go as far west as you can, follow signs to Cape Flattery Road and head south. After 7.7 miles the road will take you to the trail head parking lot.

Don’t forget to stop in Neah Bay and purchase a Makah Recreation Pass , which is required to hike on the trail. The trail is an easy 1.5 mile round trip that winds through the forest and ends in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Utah National Parks

Utah has five National Parks with jaw dropping scenery. Combining all five parks into a single road trip is an unforgettable adventure, and one of my personal favorite experiences RVing in the USA.

Start your adventure in Zion National Park then drive on Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands. Allot at least 2 days in each park to make sure you have ample time to hike and relax. Since most of the trails in National Parks are not pet-friendly, this is not a great RV road trip with dogs.

All of the Utah National Parks, except Canyonlands, have RV-friendly campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. Reservations are accepted 6 months ahead of time and should be made exactly 6 months in advance for summer reservations.

None of the NPS campgrounds offer electric hook-ups, so RVers looking for more comfort should stay in private campgrounds near the parks. Reservations for RV parks also need to be made at least six months in advance to guarantee availability.

Don’t forget to add a few Utah State parks into your road trip itinerary. Dead Horse Point State Park, located just outside of Canyonlands, offers dramatic views of the Colorado River and the pinnacles of Canyonlands.

This state park has two campgrounds with 30 and 50 amp electric outlets. An hour from Zion, Sand Hollow State Park is a great summer stop if you are looking to get in the water.

The main feature of this state park is a refreshing reservoir with boat rentals. Their Westside campground also offers spacious campsites with full hook-ups.

Route 66, also know as the Mother Road, is the most iconic and celebrated RVing route in the USA. Historic Route 66 covers over 2,400 miles, starting in Chicago and ending at Santa Monica, California.

For the classic experience, I would recommend sticking to the westernmost portion of the route. This area features many kitschy attractions that will take you back in time. Start your journey in Amarillo, TX and take Route 66 all the way to the Pacific Ocean in California.

There are many RV campgrounds along historical Route 66. Simply use the AllStays app to find campgrounds with good reviews at your desired stopping points.

State park campgrounds are a good option if you are looking to incorporate more outdoor adventures into your road trip. Consider camping at Santa Rosa Lake, Homolovi Ruins and Malibu Creek State Parks.

Hualapai Mountain Park, 11-miles off of the road in Arizona, offers a great break from the desert. The campground sits in the Hualapai Mountain Range, so you can enjoy views of the desert below from a cooler elevation.

You want to take your time driving down Route 66, so you have plenty of time to stop for roadside attractions and detours. Starting in Amarillo, check out the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation made using old Cadillac cars.

During your RV road trip, stop at the ghost town of Oatman, Arizona that has a friendly local population of wild burros.

California’s Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) hugs the Pacific Coast of California for 650 miles. The route is best driven from north to south, so you are on the ocean side of the road for the entire drive.

This coastal road trip is not for the faint of heart. The route features winding turns, small shoulders and big drop offs. I would recommend this RV road trip for more experienced drivers not first time RVers. Drive slow and plan short days to keep this drive fun and safe.

There are several state park campgrounds and private RV parks available along Highway 1. Spend a few days at the San Francisco RV Resort just outside of the city. This resort is pricey, but it features stunning ocean views, full hook-ups and easy access to the city.

Also stop at Doheny State Beach campground in Dana Point. This campground does not have any hook-ups, but there are campsites available right on the beach.

One of the most iconic stops along the California Coast is Big Sur. Plan to spend at least a few days of your road trip exploring this area.

The hike to McWay Falls should definitely be on your travel and adventure bucket list. The trail is less than a mile, but the views are incredible. You can access the trail head directly off of Highway 1.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through the mountains from Afton, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina (my home state). This road is an iconic route for people RVing in the USA.

There are plenty of overlooks and the speed limit never exceeds 45 mile per hour, making for a leisurely RV road trip. The route has many sweeping curves, but is generally easy to drive without many tight turns. The vistas are stunning during the peak fall season when the leaves are changing, but be prepared for crowds during this time.

There are eight National Park Service Campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of these campgrounds do not have hook-ups, but they offer potable water, bathrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings and RV dump stations.

These campgrounds are open from May to October for a fee of $20 per night. If you are looking for higher-end accommodations, there a plenty of private RV parks a short drive off the parkway. Near Asheville, North Carolina, spend a night or two at the stunning mountaintop RV sites at Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Camp.

Views and hiking are the two main features of the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of our favorite hikes in the area is Crabtree Falls. The trail head is located at milepost 339.5.

There are two trail options: an easier 3 mile out and back hike on the same trail or a more strenuous 3.5 mile loop trail that climbs a ridge above the falls. The main feature of the hike is the 70 foot waterfall but there are also beautiful wildflowers in the early summer.

South Florida

If you are looking for a winter destination to RV in the USA, look no further than the Sunshine State. While many RVers park in one spot for the winter, a Florida road trip is a much better adventure.

I recommend starting your Florida road trip near Everglades National Park and driving down the Florida Keys.

Start your trip at the Miami Everglades RV Resort, a full hook-up RV park near the Everglades that offers amenities including a pool and game room. In the Keys, Sunshine Key RV Resort is another high-end RV park located right on the water.

For a more affordable camping option in the Keys, stay at Bahia Honda State Park which offers campsites with electric for $38 per night. Be sure to make your campground reservations six to twelve months in advance to avoid being stuck without a place to stay.

If you make it all the way to Key West, consider leaving your RV behind for the day to visit Dry Tortugas National Park. The park which is an island 70 miles west of Key West is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

Daily ferries shuttle visitors from Key West to the park, or you can arrive in style by flying in with Key West Seaplane Adventures. Once you arrive, you can spend the day swimming, snorkeling and exploring the 19th century fort.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (The U.P.) is a beautiful natural playground for campers RVing in the USA. Summer is the best time to visit when you can count on warm, pleasant weather.

The U.P. is accessed from I-75 on the lower peninsula of Michigan. From there, you can plan your own route around the U.P.

Straits State Park is a great place to start and end your U.P. RV road trip. Located right after the bridge onto the Upper Penninsula, the park has two campgrounds with electric hook-ups. From this location, you can easily access the ferry to car-free Mackinac Island.

Also consider staying at Indian Lake State Park which offers lake front campsites. There are also plenty of private campgrounds on the U.P. for the remainder of your road trip.

Just 10 minutes from Indian Lake State Park is The Big Spring ( Kitch-iti-kipi ) . The natural spring has crystal clear blue water that makes for a beautiful photo opportunity.

While you can’t swim in the spring, the park offers a self-operated observation raft that you can take out onto the water. Through observation windows on the raft floor, you can see trout swimming below. Also, don’t forget to eat a Pasty, a local meat pie delicacy.

Columbia River Gorge

The drive along the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge reaches heights of 4,000 feet, and the river serves as the boundary between Oregon and Washington.

I recommend starting in Troutdale, Oregon and driving on Interstate 84 to at least Hood River. This trip is a very short drive, but you can extend the trip by taking detours over the river to the Washington side.

This is a perfect first time RV road trip, allowing you to drive just 30 minutes between RV parks.

In Troutdale, stay at the Sandy Riverfront RV resort. This full hook-up campground offers direct access to the Sandy River where you can swim and float on hot summer days.

At the end of your trip, stay at the Blue Barn Grill & RV park on the Washington side of the river. In between, small RVs (20 feet max) can stay at the Eagle Creek campground within the National Scenic Area.

Even though the Columbia River Gorge is a short trip, it is not lacking in activities. There are stunning waterfalls, local breweries and hundreds of hiking trails to explore. One can’t miss hike along the gorge is Beacon Rock.

The trail is a one-mile hike up the 848 foot Beacon Rock, the core of an ancient volcano. The hike involves many switchbacks and steep drop-offs, but handrails make it safe for even casual hikers. At the top you are rewarded with vast views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

If you are looking to incorporate both city life and the great outdoors into your RV road trip, consider driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. The drive from Las Vegas to the south rim is just over four hours, but you can spend a significant amount of time at each destination.

If you are renting an RV , you can take a round trip route so you can fly in and out of Las Vegas. Alternatively, this trip can be combined with a Utah National Park or Route 66 road trip for a longer adventure.

There are many large RV resorts around Las Vegas that offer pools, outdoor activities and shuttles to casinos. If you want to stay right on The Strip, camp at Circus Circus RV Park. The campground offers full hook-up sites on the Circus Circus property, and campers have access to all the same amenities as hotel guests.

Once you reach the Grand Canyon , stay at the Trailer Village campground which offers full hook-up RV sites close to the south rim of the canyon.

Don’t forget to stop along the way to the canyon and explore Arizona a little more. Stop in the town of Chloride for some history and culture. The old silver mining town now features some interesting art with many residents creating junk art sculptures on their property.

Just outside of town, park the RV and walk 1.5 up a rough dirt road to see the murals of Chloride miner, Roy Purcell. Painted in 1966, these murals are a sight to see, covering 2,000 square feet of rocks and granite.

North to Alaska

Once you have completed some shorter road trips RVing in the USA, consider upping your road trip game and driving to Alaska. Leaving from Washington state, you can drive through British Columbia and The Yukon to reach Alaska.

Allow an absolute minimum of one month for this RV road trip, so you have plenty of time for driving and exploring. Ideally, this RV road trip would take two to three months so you have plenty of time to explore Western Canada as well.

On the route to Alaska, you will find plenty of RV parks off the highway. The AllStays app will help you find campsites in the US, as well as Canada.

Once you arrive in Alaska, the whole state is your campground. Alaska is one of the few places in the USA where it is legal to camp almost anywhere. Check out Call to Wander’s post for some Alaska campsite recommendations.

Once you reach Alaska, be sure to make it to Denali National Park. The park features Denali, the highest peak in North America, as well as plentiful wildlife.

The only entrance to the park is 240 miles north of Anchorage off Alaska Highway 3. There are RV-friendly campgrounds within the park, so you can enjoy the experience of camping right beside the natural wonders.

If you are new to RV travel, download our free RV setup and departure checklists to guide you when parking and packing up the RV.

Also, save our list of 250 road trip questions to help pass the time while you are driving.

Ready to hit the road and go RVing in the USA? Comment below to tell us which RV road trip is on the top of your bucket list.

Happy Camping!

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

The 15 Best Campsites in the West, Hands Down

An entirely unscientific, emotional, and somewhat biased accounting of the greatest places to pitch a tent, chosen by the pros who live their lives outdoors.

Best. Site. Ever.

My favorite campsite isn’t easy to get to, and it’s even harder to book. Each year, only around 3,000 in-season permits to the Enchantments are released, guaranteeing lottery winners nearly solitary access to a massive and glorious swath of glaciated rock and forest. The rugged range, 115 miles east of Seattle, is strewn with alpine lakes and defended by curious mountain goats. “We got here first,” they seem to say. And they’re right.

For years, access to this alpine Valhalla had evaded me. But one day my buddy Ryan texted, offering salvation: “My friend’s got extra spots on his permit. Let’s do this.” Weeks later, there we were, blasting past the Bavarian throwback town of Leavenworth, packs pregnant with gear, frothing to reach the trailhead.

The hike into our first camp was anything but easy. For me, anyway: My lanky friend Wes marches like he’s trying to prove something, and Martin, an elite trail runner, once completed the three-day route we had planned in a day . As we reached elevation, the teeth of the Cascades revealed themselves, serrated crags attacking the sky.

We pressed on: Up a scree of rubble and over the cusp to an otherworldly cerulean lake surrounded by hardened snowpack. Here, we spread out, aware of the encroaching goats. “They drink your pee,” someone pointed out. “They like the salt.” I eyed them warily. Weird goats aside, this was a lifetime site, a world so different and raw that it reminded us of our small place in the big picture. Martin and Ryan stripped to their shorts and slid like kids down a sheet of ice into one of the lakes. Wes actually relaxed. I forgot about the Internet. We were in thrall to the world around us—not chained to a desk, and definitely not confined to an astroturfed “campsite” with a 68-footer belching diesel fumes into our airspace.

This is why I camp. That release, that reminder. And I know I’m not alone. We asked influencers and athletes in the outdoor industry for their own special places, which we’ve included here. Enjoy—and get camping! — Matt Bean, Sunset editor-in-chief

Doe Bay, Orcas Island, WA

I love this hippy dippy commune resort in the San Juan Islands , which has cabins, a sauna, and a seed-to-table restaurant. If you want more rusticity, book one of their primitive campsites perched atop a cliff overlooking the Pacific. —Graham Hiemstra, Founder, Field Mag

The Landing, Index, WA

Not only can you set up camp on your own pet-friendly, private beach along the Skykomish River in the Cascade Mountains, but you’re also surrounded by the most pristine, temperate rainforest you can find. —Alyssa Ravasio, Founder + CEO of Hipcamp

Wind River Mountain Range, WY

Of all of the dramatic solid granite peaks and cliffs, Dogtooth Cirque, near the North-Fork of the Popo Agie River by Papoose Lake, is my favorite. After five years of visiting, my partners and I put in a new free climb here, up the Monolith, a 1,200-foot cliff of sheer granite rock. —Mike Lilygren, co-founder of Maven Outdoor Equipment Company, Lander, WY

Pacific Crest Trail, OR

Three-quarters of the way through a northward hike on the Pacific Crest Trail from Pamelia Lake through Jefferson Park in Oregon there is an exposed ridge at the apex of the trail where Mt. Jefferson is at your back, Jefferson Park expands below you, and Mt. Hood looms off in the distance, beckoning. —Aaron Morris, co-founder Wild Root Spirits, Portland

Wainapanapa State Park, Maui, HI

You can’t visit Maui without experiencing the road to Hana’s windy roads, steep cliffs, and roadside waterfalls. The journey long so I split it up camping at Wainapanapa State Park. It’s a destination in itself, with a beautiful black sand beach, swimming caves, seaside trails, and breathtaking views.” —Luke Walsh, Founder Paia Bowls, Maui

MacKerricher State Park, Fort Bragg, CA

There’s a beautiful beach bluff here with the all-time best sunset view, plus tide pools and whale watching in the winter and spring. The tent sites are all spacious, and there’s also some great hike-in sites that are cozy and more private. The site itself is close to Fort Bragg for any last-minute supplies you might have forgotten. —Chef Melissa Perello, Frances and Octavia restaurants, San Francisco

Big Sur, CA

To cap off my first year in the Golden State, I joined friends in their annual surf pilgrimage to Big Sur . The thunderous winter surf pounded massive rock pinnacles, creating an anxious undertone to the safety of our campsite. Looking back at the cliffs as I bobbed amidst the kelp heads in the surf, this was the moment that I realized we are part of a bigger story. —Chris Sears, Attendee Relations Managers Outdoor Retailer

Montaña de Oro State Park, Los Osos, CA

As someone who had a series of unfortunate camping trips as a kid, I can confirm that Islay Creek Campground [located at this state park] changes dubious minds. The beach, just a short walk from the campground, is full of tidepools and small caves for exploring. A trail leads to a bluff where you can watch the waves crash as the sun sets. As if the natures of wonder aren’t enough, there are also easily accessible, clean bathrooms. —Michelle Race, co-founder Black Girls Trekkin’, LA

Benton Hot Springs, CA

This isolated campground in the eastern Sierra Nevada , about 45 minutes outside the town of Mammoth Lakes, comes with desert and mountain views, plenty of privacy, and a short hiking trail from the site. But the reason you’ll come to Benton Hot Springs is that each campsite comes with its own private hot springs-fed tub. — Dan Abrams, co-founder of Flylow Gear

Off Highway 191, dirt and slickrock roads wind through the desert in a network of dispersed sites comprising the Northern Moab Free Campground. The further you drive, the fewer people you find.   High clearance four-wheel drive is a must and there are no amenities, just how we like it. —Chris Clearman, Founder of Matador adventure gear, Boulder, Co.

Sand Flats, UT

This edgy shelf of desert adjacent to the Slickrock bike trail in Moab is close enough to town to grab milkshakes and fries at Milts, but far enough away that things still seemed wild. It feels like the crest of the world, the LaSal mountains to the east, the sprawl of Canyonlands in the other direction, the edge of adventures unfolding. — Heather Hansman , Author

Amphitheater Campground, San Juan Mountains, CO

While not the most off-the-map camping spot in the world Amphitheater has an amazing location, just outside Ouray, Colorado and it is one of our favorite stopping spots on the way to Telluride. The views from the campsite are incredible, the campground itself is immaculately maintained and Ouray is such a fun town to spend a day with great restaurants, bars and best of all hot springs. —Jedd Rose, Co-Founder Topo Designs, Fort Collins, Colorado

Mount Elbert, CO

I was looking for campgrounds with my dog when I stumbled upon a secret, free, dispersed camping area just past the Mount Elbert-Mount Massive trailheads, along the 4×4 road. It’s amazingly quiet and there’s a great stream for water. I now camp there every year with my two sons. — Bryan Dayton, founder of Half Eaten Cookie Hospitality, Denver

Keep Reading:

• Camping in the West
• Outdoor Adventure

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Rivers & Oceans

Rafting and Adventure Travel

Best Whitewater Rafting and Camping Trips in the United States

The United States is home to an amazing array of multi-day (overnight) rafting expeditions. Using our years of experiences guiding rafts around the world, the staff at Rivers & Oceans came up with our list of the top 10 best rafting and camping trips in the U.S. These white water rafting vacations are in no particular order , it was hard enough for us to agree on 10 trips. Since they are so unique, we have a separate blog post about our favorite multi-day rafting trips in Alaska .

Most of the whitewater rafting trips are all-inclusive packages between 4 to 6 days with a couple of options that can last two weeks (Colorado and Salmon Rivers). The main factors considered were their whitewater rapids, scenery, remoteness, access (from airports), camping, hiking, wildlife, fishing and water quality.

If you decide to book a trip through us the costs are guaranteed to be the same as if you booked directly with the outfitter.

Best Multi-day Rafting Trips in Oregon

1. the rogue river – southern oregon   .

We love rafting the Rogue for its lush scenery, wildlife, and length at four days is the perfect amount of time. The Rogue is know for its wildlife viewing with birds of prey, turtles, otters and black bear. Kids enjoy the warm water for swimming, and hikes to stunning waterfalls and historical properties. 

This is a great river for all ages, especially families that can enjoy the class III whitewater rafting and kid friendly camping. Older kids and adults can increase the level of adventure by paddling in a raft or inflatable kayaking. Getting to the meeting location is a three-hour drive south from Portland or a 6 hour drive from the Bay Area. There is also a local airport in Medford, Oregon.

2. The Illinois River – Southern Oregon  

The Illinois River combines the best whitewater rafting, scenery, and solitude in the lower 48 states. It is such a secret due to only being run in the spring time. You will be blown away by the ruggedness of the canyon, endless waterfalls, water clarity, and the landscape of moss, flowers, and lush greenery surrounding the canyon. 

After paddling class IV whitewater, each night’s campsite provides a unique, scenic experience. Trips meet in Grants Pass, Oregon and are doable over a long weekend. Come ready to battle the elements of early spring in this remote and rarely rafted river of the coastal Cascade Range.  

River News of Oregon

Led by successful dam removals such as the Elwa and White Salmon Rivers in Washington State, the  largest dam removal in US history  was announced on the Klamath River in southern Oregon. Previous removals have restored river ecosystems as well as saving taxpayer dollars due to the dams not producing power efficiently. Most exciting is the potential salmon recovery due to recovering hundreds of miles of free-flowing river. 

Utah’s Top Whitewater Rafting and Camping Tours

3. Gates of Lodore on the Green River – Northeastern Utah  

The Green River is the longest river system in the Southwest, providing the majority of water in the Colorado River. Lodore Canyon is a stunning four-day rafting trip on the Green River through towering red rock and sandstone walls.

Within Dinosaur National Monument, this a wonderful option for families with fun technical class III rapids run in a choice of oar raft, paddle boat or inflatable kayak. Enjoy side hikes to waterfalls and scenic overlooks with additional time to relax in camp on nice sandy beaches. Trips meet in Vernal, Utah, an easy three hour drive from the Salt Lake City airport. (See our page about rafting the Green River through Lodore Canyon .)

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4. Yampa River – Northwestern Colorado/Utah  

As the last free flowing river in the Colorado River system, rafting the Yampa River is a wild and special vacation. Flowing through Dinosaur National Monument like the nearby Lodore, the Yampa sees exciting flows during spring runoff, particularly in the famous Warm Springs rapid. Run the rapids of the Yampa in paddle boats, oar rafts, and inflatable kayaks.

The campsites on the Yampa are stunning, with lush box elder trees, sandy beaches and surrounded by incredible sandstone walls. Side hikes are a daily optional activity up creeks and to scenic views. This trip meets in Vernal, Utah, giving visitors the option to explore more of Dinosaur National Monument. (Find out more about Yampa River rafting tours .)

River News in Utah

In November of 2020, a major pipeline to divert water to Colorado’s Front Range cities (Denver), from Flaming Gorge Dam, which feeds into Lodore Canyon on the Green River and then into the Colorado River was denied by Utah state engineers. This is part of a decades long fight over Colorado River water. Read more in the Salt Lake City Tribune’s  article here . 

Idaho’s Best White Water Rafting and Camping Expeditions

5. the salmon river – central idaho   .

With white sandy beach camping, warm water and towering canyon walls the Salmon River is a staff favorite at Rivers & Oceans. We say you feel like you are in the Cabo, Mexico version of Idaho! Rafting the Salmon is an absolutely perfect trip for all – it has whitewater that is just exciting enough for thrill seekers to paddle in a raft or inflatable kayak, and mellow enough to relax as your float in an oar raft through the largest wilderness in the lower 48 states, the Frank Church River of No Return.

Sometimes called the Grand Canyon of Idaho, it is the second deepest canyon in the lower 48 states. It’s warm water, hot spring, historical sites and Native American pictographs make it one of the best six-day trips in the West. Together the Middle Fork and the Salmon River can be rafted 200 miles, making for an incredible 12-day expedition. (Read about the Salmon River of Idaho .)

6. The Middle Fork of the Salmon River – Central Idaho  

The Middle Fork is one of the most classic whitewater trips in North America. Flowing south to north for 100 miles through the Franch Church River of No Return Wilderness , the terrain changes between high alpine forest, grassy desert and finally into Impassable Canyon which provides for dramatic camping and rafting. Besides it’s many hot springs, side creeks and technical, rocky rapids run in oar rafts, paddle boats and inflatable kayaks, this river attracts fly fishers from all over the world.

The cold, clear water makes it a pristine habitat for many diverse fish species steelhead, cutthroat trout and also salmon. This vacation is best for the more adventurous in June and becomes a family trip in July and August. Trips meet and end in Stanley, Idaho. (See a video and more information on the Middle Fork of the Salmon .)

7. The Selway River – Western Montana/Northern Idaho  

Last but not least, rafting the Selway River is another staff favorite at Rivers and Oceans. One of the most pristine whitewater experiences and trips in North America. With incredibly diverse and lush scenery in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, class IV+ rapids run in oar and paddle rafts with world-class fishing, this river speaks for itself. Only one groups launches per day making this the ultimate wilderness adventure.

The river is typically run in five-days including a layover day (two nights camped at the same location) to give guests a day to explore the wilderness. Hike to a fire lookout tower, fly fish up Moose Creek or hang out in camp during the layover day. Trips meet in Missoula, Montana making this river one of the easiest to access. (Learn more about the exclusive Selway River .)

River News in Idaho

Salmon River water flows down into the Snake River and then through the Columbia River to the Pacific Ocean. These drainages are some of the most ecologically diverse and critical to species both inland and in the ocean.  Idaho Rivers United  created a community education program to help improve habitat conservation for wild fish that are critical to Native American communities, the Idaho economy and more. 

Top Overnight Rafting Trip Packages in California

8. tuolumne river – yosemite , california.

The Tuolumne is called the champagne of the Sierra due to it’s light bubbly whitewater in a dramatic canyon. Over 18 miles the river has 16 named class IV rapids plus many more class II and II rapids creating some of the most consistent whitewater rafting of any river. Everyone typically paddles on these trips. What puts it on the top 10 list is the camping and exploring on two and three-day trips. The Clavey River and the North Fork of the Tuolumne both provide world-class swimming and relaxing. Plus the Tuolumne River’s proximity to Yosemite makes it a much do for anyone visiting the park. (Check out the Sierra’s Tuolumne River .)

9. Cherry Creek/Tuolumne Combo – Yosemite , California

Those that want more than the Tuolumne’s class IV experience can head upstream to Cherry Creek, the most difficult white water rafting in the United States. Paddle 9 miles of class V whitewater on Cherry Creek and then proceed down the rapids of Tuolumne River to camp over two or three days. This package provides the most whitewater intense rafting trip to be had anywhere.

Be warned, to participate in this trip you have to pass a swim training and be fairly fit. Most should stick with the Tuolumne run which is more than enough whitewater for all but the most die-hard enthusiasts. (Find out if rafting Cherry Creek is right for you.)

Cherry Creek Rafting Video

Best Rafting and Camping Tours in Arizona (and potentially the world!)

10. colorado river through grand canyon national park – northern arizona.

The Colorado River is unquestionably on everyone’s list of best rafting and camping trips in the world! There is huge whitewater, amazing sandy beaches for camping, and incredible hiking to scenic vistas and lush grottos. The human history of the area is fascinating and the guides are typically well seasoned and knowledgeable. These trips run from overnight to 18-days. The question is which is the best trip and when to go . (Learn more about floating through Grand Canyon .)

Concluding Thoughts

While all these vacation packages create an incredible experience between the rafting, camping, and scenery, the best white water rafting trip in the US is the one that meets your groups needs. Families with children from 8 to 13 will be best on the Gates of Lodore, Salmon, and Rogue Rivers. The other rivers are not as family friendly with longer river days, tougher conditions, or harder whitewater. Looking for something more remote and wild check out our Alaskan rafting trips .

If you have questions or just want to talk about rivers please give us a call or contact us by email ! We’ll point you to the best outfitter and destinations for you and your group. We guarantee the same price as working directly with the outfitters.

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Alaska Rafting Interactive Map

Interactive map of our favorite multi-day rafting trips in Alaska.

Keep Reading > Alaska Rafting Interactive Map

Alaska Rafting: Remote Wilderness River Expeditions

Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking wilderness rafting rivers in the world, with varying degrees of challenge and adventure. In this article, we will discuss the top multi-day wilderness rafting rivers in Alaska, including the miles and days of each trip, whitewater, wildlife and how to access the rivers.

Keep Reading > Alaska Rafting: Remote Wilderness River Expeditions

All Inclusive Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, an all-inclusive rafting trip might be just what you’re looking for. Here’s everything you need to know about these unforgettable adventures.

Keep Reading > All Inclusive Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Experts in wilderness travel, we have extensive connections within the industry through our 60+ combined years guiding most of the trips we offer including hundreds of rafting trips in Grand Canyon.

There is no fee for our service, ensuring the cost of your expedition is the same as booking directly with the outfitter  ( Learn more ).

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9 Most Beautiful RV Campgrounds in the U.S., According to Experts

From New York to Key West, these expert-approved RV campgrounds in the U.S. offer stunning views and cushy amenities.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

For years, the stereotypical RV traveler was the baby boomer retiree, but these days, millions of Americans live in RVs — a growth that's been fueled by millennials and young families. It's a nationwide trend that exploded during the course of the pandemic, with Outdoorsy reporting a 4,500% increase in RV rental bookings in their 2020 travel trend report.

With plenty of newbies getting on board (literally) with RV life, there are a few practical things to know, like how to pick the right RV, what to pack, and mistakes to avoid. But, as any longtime RVer knows, half the battle is finding a campground that has the amenities you need, the space you crave, and the views you want. To cut out some of the legwork, we asked experts to share some of the best and most beautiful RV campgrounds they've ever experienced, and then added a few of our favorites — because one of the best things about a home on wheels is waking up to a million-dollar view.

Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor in Petoskey, Michigan

Courtesy of Sun Outdoors

If you're looking for small-town charm and easy access to water, look no further: Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor is a quick 10-minute drive west of delightful Petoskey, and sits on the shore of Lake Michigan. If hopping in the lake isn't your thing, enjoy the RV park's temperature-controlled pool and spa, or play tennis to your heart's content.

Bob Martin, a longtime RVer and president and CEO of Thor Industries , an RV manufacturer, notes, "The park is ideal for those traveling in large RVs and seeking extended stays." The sites can accommodate rigs up to 55 feet long and include Wi-Fi, cable, and a fire pit.

Zion River Resort in Virgin, Utah

Chances are you've seen photos of Zion National Park , an area renowned for its red cliffs, bizarre rock formations, waterfalls, and narrow gorges that seem to cut through the earth. Just minutes from the park's south entrance is Zion River Resort , complete with full RV hookups, grills, free Wi-Fi, and yes, views galore. Once you've fully experienced Zion National Park, use the campground as your home base to explore a little farther — Bryce Canyon National Park is just two hours northeast.

Schoodic Woods Campground in Winter Harbor, Maine

NPS / Sardius Stalker

This National Park Service campground isn't in the main part of Acadia National Park , but trust us, that's a good thing. You'll get all the pros — views and easy access to the park — without the crowds.

Jeremy Puglisi, cohost of The RV Atlas podcast, explains, "An anonymous donor developed this campground, bike paths, and facilities on the Schoodic Peninsula before turning over the property to the National Park Service."

Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio

The only thing better than spending the day at a 364-acre waterfront amusement park is being able to park your RV a few steps away and do it all again tomorrow. Martin says it's the norm for RVers at Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point , who also get early park entry and ticket packages. If amusement parks aren't your thing, head to the RV campground's Lake Erie beachfront or sit back and relax at your site, which has a full hookup, cable, and Wi-Fi.

Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA in Wilmington, New York

Puglisi and his family, who live in New Jersey, think of the Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA as their "basecamp option #1 for any serious outdoor adventure in New York state's vast and magnificent Adirondack Park." The KOA sits at the base of Whiteface Mountain and is an easy drive from great fly-fishing spots, hikes, cliff jumping, and — when civilization calls — downtown Lake Placid.

But don't think that just because you're camping you won't have access to the finer things in life. At this particular KOA, there's a rec room, bike rentals, pool, mini golf, and special weekends that include music and activities.

Boyd's Key West Campground in Key West, Florida

You don't have to rent a beach house in Key West to get a spot right on the water. At Boyd's Key West Campground , located near the end of Highway 1, you can book a site right on the ocean and soak up the laid-back island vibes. The family-run RV campground has a pool and beach area, full hookup sites, and easy, breezy access to Duval Street and downtown Key West.

Rafter J Bar Ranch in Hill City, South Dakota

If you're craving ample elbow room, sprawling views, and cushy amenities, a visit to Rafter J Bar Ranch will do you good. You can plan your days with trips to Mount Rushmore (20 minutes away by car) and Crazy Horse Memorial (18 minutes away by car), but Puglisi says some of his family's favorite memories took place at the campground, which has a heated pool and hot tub. "We had a large, grassy field right in front of our site, and we played soccer and catch in a park-like setting surrounded by the beauty and stoic grandeur of South Dakota," he added.

Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

You've likely heard of Hilton Head Island, but you don't have to leave your RV behind to experience its renowned golf courses and Atlantic beaches. The RV sites at this campground have Wi-Fi and cable, and the property includes saunas, swimming pools, and a hot tub. When you want to venture out, head to the marina to pick up a jet ski, kayak, or paddleboard and cruise around the shore.

Salt Creek Recreation Area & Campground in Port Angeles, Washington

One of the most visually stunning RV campgrounds in the U.S. can be found in the Salt Creek Recreation Area on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Puglisi says, "When we post pictures of the campground at the Salt Creek Recreation Area on social media, our followers flip out and demand to know where it's located. It's just that beautiful."

The campground sits on a bluff above the water, and there are tide pools and plenty of hiking, surfing, biking, and kayaking spots to be explored. If you can tear yourself away from this magical place, make a trip to Olympic National Park to get up close with the peninsula's temperate rain forests, wild coastline, and glacier-capped mountains.

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The Best Sleeping Pads to Guarantee a Good Night’s Rest

We tried 34 pads at campsites, under the stars, and even on some backpacking trips. These had us sleeping soundly.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

There are very few things that can tank morale on a camping trip like a bad night of sleep. Fortunately, with all the stellar sleeping pad options out there, there’s no reason for your gear to prevent you from getting your beauty sleep, especially when you’re car camping and you’ve got the room to go big. We tested a variety of pads (and even cots) that prioritize comfort over weight and packability—from smart options designed for literal car campers to pads so plush they can pull double duty as a guest room mattress. These are our favorites.

At a Glance

• Best Overall: Exped LuxeMat (from $350)
• Most Sustainable: Big Agnes Circleback ($250)
• Best Value: REI Co-Op Camp Dreamer Double Bed ($279)
• Best Guest Room Mattress: Big Agnes Captain Comfort (from $250)
• Best for Literal Car Campers: Exped MegaMat Auto ($400)
• Honorable Mention: REI Co-Op Campwell Folding Cot ($100)

How to Choose Your Sleeping Pad

How we test, meet our lead testers.

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Best Overall

Exped luxemat.

From $350 at Exped

Weight: 6.6 lbs (medium wide) Thickness: 4″ Available sizes: Medium wide; long extra wide Dimensions: 72″ x 25.6″; 77.6″ x 30.3″ R-Value: 7.2

Pros and Cons ⊕ Comfortable natural fiber exterior ⊕ Convenient wide-mouth carry bag ⊗ Can be difficult to deflate entirely

Every tester who slept on Exped’s LuxeMat had the same initial response: “It felt like I was sleeping on my bed at home.” The brand achieved this “real mattress” comfort with an extra-cush self-inflating PU-foam core mattress and a quilted natural fiber topper. One tester slept on it for a week on their bedroom floor while waiting for her regular mattress to be delivered without any noticeable leakage or discomfort.

The four-way stretch organic cotton face fabric, quilted to wool insulation, has just the right amount of give to conform supportively to the shape of the user’s body, with the added luxury of wool’s breathability and cotton’s soft next-to-skin feel. “The top felt like a bed sheet, not a camping mattress,” said one tester, who used the LuxeMat on a 40-degree June night in Wyoming. “And, since the cotton fabric is grippier than the synthetic materials used on the exterior of a lot of the camping pads I’ve tried, my sleeping bag wasn’t slipping all over it.”

At 25.6 inches across, 72 inches long, and four inches thick, the medium-wide LuxeMat (the smaller of two available sizes) is roomy enough for nighttime tossing and turning, but isn’t inordinately bulky to transport and store. The mattress’s sides and base are a durable 210D recycled ripstop polyester fabric that didn’t show a single scratch even after repeatedly being dragged between the tent and rocky Washington beaches for oceanside naps. Zippers on the sides can be used to secure sleeping bags and quilts, or to attach another LuxeMat to make a camp bed for two. A pocket on each side (one stretch, one zipper) is perfect for storing phones and glasses overnight.

The mat self-inflates, but you’ll need the included foot pump to top it off and reach your desired pressure—a simple and quick process; getting all the air out during deflation proved a little tricker. Since the wide-mouthed, 30-by-8-inch carry bag can easily accommodate the extra bloating, our testers didn’t mind, but it’s something to consider if you’re worried about every inch of storage space.

Most Sustainable

Big agnes circleback.

$250 at Big Agnes $250 at Campsaver

Weight: 2.1 lbs Thickness: 4.5″ Available sizes: Regular; long Dimensions: 72″ x 25″; 78″ x 25″ R-Value: 4.7

Pros and Cons ⊕ Circularly recyclable ⊕ Versatile ⊗ Hard to fit back into the stuff sack

In the world of sustainable product design, the gold standard is circularity—items made so that they can be broken down and remade without a constant input of new materials and output of waste. We’ve never tested a camping pad that achieves that standard—until the Circleback, which uses a TPU air bladder that is 100-percent recyclable and an insulating cover made entirely of recycled and recyclable polyester. When it’s time to retire the pad, Big Agnes will take it back and reuse every last scrap.

Sustainability aside, the Circleback’s modular insulation system is worth close consideration from anyone looking for a classic, do-it-all inflatable sleeping pad. With the removable cover, the Circleback has an R-value of 4.7, making it plenty comfortable in three seasons—one tester stayed warm and snug on an October trip in the North Cascades with overnight temps around freezing. Without the cover, the Circleback becomes a stripped down, lightweight summer pad.

Testers praised the extra polyester insulation, cushioning, and noise-muffling properties the polyester taffeta removable cover affords, but some testers found themselves sliding off the slick surface. “Even at a flat tent site, I woke up a couple mornings on the ground, with the pad next to me,” said Seattle-based tester Maeve Axtell, who used the 4.5-inch-thick pad on a three-night trip outside of Bozeman, Montana. Keeping the pad at a moderate to low firmness helped, but Axtell cautioned that it might not be ideal for restless sleepers.

Despite the pad’s laudable comfort, the whole kit packs down to 6 x 13 inches (regular), making it a solid option for short backpacking trips where the priority is comfort over size or weight.

REI Camp Dreamer Double Bed

$279 at REI

Weight: 9.3 lbs Thickness: 4″ Available sizes: XL (Single Person); double Dimensions: 78″ x 55″

Pros and Cons ⊕ Easy inflation ⊕ Soft ⊕ Easy to pack ⊗ Slow deflation

At less than $300, the Camp Dreamer Double is one of the most affordable two-person sleeping pads in the high-end memory foam mattress category, with little sacrifice to comfort or durability.

Like many pads in this niche market, the Camp Dreamer uses horizontal polyurethane foam cores to provide stability and cushion, offering 4-inches of lift—less than some of the more deluxe models, but, for most sleepers, plenty plush and warm (with a cold weather-friendly R-Value of 6.6). After a 30 minute self-inflation time, the included pump sack delivered the final plumping through a designated inflation valve. “It’s convenient enough that I’ve started bringing it even if it’s just me and the dog,” says category manager Ryan Stuart.

The stretch 30-denier recycled polyester top fabric was soft next to skin and quiet, while the 75-denier bottom was tough enough to handle a gravel parking lot. Deflation was a bit arduous—we took a cat nap halfway through the two minute process—but once collapsed, it slid into a stuff sack the size of a large bear canister without a fight.

At 55 inches wide (two inches wider than most standard double mattresses) and with all the bells-and-whistles of higher-priced competitors, the Camp Dreamer Double is a no-compromise solution for comfort-seeking couples.

Best Guest Room Mattress

Big agnes captain comfort.

$300 at Backcountry (Double) $250 at Big Agnes (Single)

Weight: 6.4 lbs Thickness: 5″ Available sizes:  Single; double Dimensions: 78” x 30″; 72” x 41″ ; 78” x 52”

Pros and Cons ⊕ Super wide and supportive ⊗ Hard to get back into stuff-sack

It looks like camping pad, but, according to our testers, it sure doesn’t sleep like one. “Felt more like my mattress at home,” reported Ryan Van Horne, a Campbell River, B.C.-based tester.

The 50-denier polyester face fabric is cotton-soft and stretchy, and the high density foam, with horizontal coring for compression, creates a firm and supportive feel right to the edges. After self-inflating, just a couple of breaths topped it up to five inches high and 30 inches wide, with a winter-rated R-value of 8.3. It gobbles up tent space, but provides plenty of room to toss and turn. “I could sprawl like I do at home,” says category manager Ryan Stuart, who used it on a mountain biking road trip in the B.C. Interior. Our only complaint came when it was time to pack up—we struggled to get the pad small enough to fit into its included stuff sack.

The 75-denier polyester bottom fabric is about average for the category, and we didn’t notice any durability issues after normal use and abuse. The Captain Comfort lived up to its name with solid sleeps, even over rocky, stick-ridden campgrounds.

Best for Literal Car Campers

Exped megamat auto.

$400 at REI $400 at Exped

Weight: 8.5 lbs Thickness: 4″ Available sizes: One size Dimensions: 76″ x 52″ (top width; bottom width is 39″)

Pros and Cons ⊕ Specifically contoured to fit in a car ⊕ Warm ⊕ Stable ⊗ Expensive

Exped designed this pad specifically to turn the back of a Tesla Model X into a glass-ceilinged bedroom, but it also happens to work perfectly in most other compact SUVs, wagons, and even truck beds.

The head of the T-shaped pad is 52 inches wide, filling up a three-seat back row or a three-person backpacking tent before slimming down to 39 inches to fit around wheel wells. Standing four inches high, it does an admirable job of smoothing out the bumps and humps of a vehicle’s interior.

Cracking the dedicated inflation valve nearly filled the open-cell foam pad on its own, and it tops off easily with the included hand/foot-style pump. Ryan Van Horne, a Campbell River, B.C.-based tester, reported that it held full inflation for six days of base camping on a rock climbing trip to Quadra Island. It deflates surprisingly quickly for such a big pad, and the roll-top- style stuff sack swallowed it without a struggle.

Rated to R-8.1, it’s plenty warm for winter use. Wherever we used it—in a Subaru Outback or a tent, solo or with a partner—the brushed 50-denier polyester top was, in the words of one tester, “wonderfully soft and quiet.” The open cell PU foam didn’t transmit movement, either—Van Horne slept right through the night next to a fidgety partner.

Honorable Mention

Rei co-op campwell folding cot.

$100 at REI

Weight: 17.8 lbs Sizes: One size Dimensions: 76” x 25” x 18”

Pros and Cons ⊕ Easy to set up ⊕ Supportive ⊗ Not insulated ⊗ Heavy

A cot is a nice sleeping option for anyone looking for a bit of extra structure or a setup that more closely resembles their bed at home. Our 78-year-old tester was pleased to be able to spare their stiff, aging muscles the chore of standing up from the ground first thing in the morning after sleeping on the Campwell folding cot in Oregon’s Wallowa Mountains.

Even younger testers who prefer traditional sleeping pads said that if they were to get a cot, they’d opt for this one. “It was so easy to set up, and much more supportive than my old inflatable pad,” said Virginia-based tester Peggy Lynch. The Campwell doesn’t have any built-in cushioning—the top is a layer of sturdy 300-denier recycled polyester fabric. But Lynch reported sleeping well with a foam pad stacked on top, which also provided insulation.

While many foldable cots are bulky and awkward to carry (and the ones made of multiple pieces are a chore to set up), this one fits in a tubular bag approximately the size and shape of a typical folding camp chair. At 17.8 pounds, it’s not exactly lightweight, but a carry strap makes it easy to transport over short distances, storage is easy thanks to its accordion-style folding mechanism, and setup takes less than 30 seconds. Blocky feet protect the tent floor from the cot’s steel legs, creating a wide, stable base.

Foam-Filled vs. Air-Filled

We recommend picking a modern, self-inflating, foam-filled pad. A purely air-filled pad might save money, but won’t be nearly as warm, comfortable, or supportive.

Self-inflating foam pads should inflate most of the way within roughly a half hour, depending on the model, and come with inflation sacks or pumps to finish the job. Our favorite pumps have a snug connection point with the pad and a large air chamber that’s easy to roll and push with minimal effort. Campers who don’t want to wait can invest in an electric pump, like Exped’s battery-operated Widget Pump. Almost all foam-insulated camping pads have high enough R-Values for winter camping (above 5.0), but it’s worth double-checking if your adventures will include sub-freezing nights.

This ubiquitous term will inevitably crop up when searching for the most appropriate pad for your outdoor activity. R-value is a universal measurement that rates a sleeping pad’s ability to resist heat transfer. R-values in sleeping pads typically range from 1-7. A pad with an R-value of up to 2 works in temps with an expected nighttime low of 50 degrees Fahrenheit; an R-value between 2 to 3.9 works in temps with an expected nighttime low of 32 degrees; an R-value between 4 to 5.4 works in temps with an expected nighttime low as cold as 15 degrees; and a pad with an R-value of 5.5 or higher works in temps down to an expected nighttime low of zero degrees.

Packability

When you’re car camping, packability isn’t as big of a concern as when you’re backpacking and need to cram all of your gear into one backpack. For that reason, the best sleeping pads tend to be thick, wide, and much heavier than their backpacking counterparts. Still, if you have a small car or limited storage, packed size might still be a major consideration. Some of the sleeping pads on this list pack down quite small (about the size of a large bag of potato chips), while others are beasts.

Aim for a higher-denier material on both the top and bottom of the pad, especially if you plan on dragging it outside for stargazing, or share your bed with a canine.

Unlike lightweight sleeping pads used for backpacking, the pads we focused on for this category ignored the confines of weight and size and embraced the luxury of toting your bedding in the trunk of your car. They’re thick. They’re wide. They’re cozy.

Over the course of two seasons of testing, we tried 34 different pads in vehicles, under the stars, and even took a couple of the lightest on a backpacking trip, checking for faulty valves, evaluating ease of use, and, most importantly, vetting comfort level.

Category manager Miyo McGinn slept on four different pads for at least a week each in her bedroom, making the best of a bad situation after she pulled a back muscle and couldn’t get comfortable on her bed’s worn-out mattress. McGinn spent 18 nights on the Exped Luxemat, our favorite pick this year, and can confidently say that it was just as comfortable as her new deluxe memory-foam replacement mattress that finally came in the mail.

Miyo McGinn is an assistant editor at Outside based in Bozeman, Montana. She has camped in a dozen different states and four continents, but Washington state, where she grew up, will always be her favorite place to pitch a tent. Miyo got her start reviewing gear as Outside’s gear editorial assistant in 2021.

Ryan Stuart usually sleeps better on a sleeping pad than on his bed at home. After innumerable nights spent beach camping for surf, mountain bike road-tripping, and bumming around crags across the West, Stuart has become a discerning connoisseur of luxurious car camp mattresses. For this category he tapped a team of avid campers all based on Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

• 2024 Summer Gear Guide
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When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

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The best soft coolers for chilling out in 2024

Here’s the hard sell: Soft coolers are versatile, lightweight options for keeping food and beverages cold on the go.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Gone are the days of only finding small, flimsy, poorly insulated soft coolers. Now, a much wider variety of soft-shelled coolers rival their rigid counterparts in ice retention while offering a much more portable, versatile alternative. They range from compact lunch size to all-day capacity, with various carrying capacities to save your shoulders. So whether you are headed to the beach, keeping groceries cool for the drive home, or out in the woods where you’ll need a camping cooler, the best soft coolers keep your items cool and safe. 

• Best overall: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler
• Best tote: Hydro Flask Day Escape Cooler Tote
• Best backpack: Yeti Hopper M20
• Best large capacity: Engel HD30
• Most durable: Yeti Hopper Flip
• Best budget: Arctic Zone Insulated Tote Cooler Bag

How we chose the best soft coolers

When selecting the best soft coolers, we aimed to choose various sizes and carrying styles suitable for all sorts of activities and needs. Ice retention and durability were two of the most important factors, as a cooler isn’t much good if it doesn’t keep things cold. We also evaluated closure types, opening sizes, and any additional pockets or features that the coolers may offer. Finally, we chose coolers at various price points while still ensuring quality products across the board. 

The best soft coolers: Reviews & Recommendations

A soft cooler is the way to go if you’re looking for a lightweight cooler to keep things cold, whether taking tasty treats to a friend’s party, going short-term camping , or even taking your foldable kayak out . These options are ideal for various activities and situations, so you can find one below that fits your needs. 

• Capacity: 12 liters/20 cans (also available in 12, 30, or 40-can capacity)
• Closure type: Zipper
• Promised ice retention: 2 days 
• Empty weight: 3 pounds
• Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.75 x 15.5 inches
• Good balance of price and quality
• Available in multiple colors and sizes
• Lots of handles
• Outside pocket is small and tight
• Narrow interior

The RTIC Soft Pack Cooler earns our top spot because it is reasonably priced while offering plenty of quality. It uses thick walls of closed-cell foam to keep things cool and is effective for a few days if you properly prime it. It features a removable padded shoulder strap, built-in carrying handles, and handles on the sides, offering plenty of ways to move the cooler around. 

This soft-sided cooler is quite durable. The exterior fabric is tear—and puncture-resistant, and the interior is puncture-resistant and waterproof to prevent leaks. The waterproof zipper also prevents leaks while keeping it sealed up tight to keep the cold air inside. The entire cooler floats, making it an ideal choice for any activities on the water. A small pocket on the front is the perfect place to store essentials, though it is a bit tight, so you won’t be able to store bulky things in there.

We really like the RTIC cooler’s wide mouth, making it easier to access your food and drinks. Unfortunately, the tall and narrow design takes some away from that easy access, but it’s still better than other options. It comes in four sizes and a range of colors, so you can choose one that best fits your needs and style. 

Abby Ferguson / Popular Science

• Capacity: 26 liters (also available as 18-liter)
• Promised ice retention: 36 hours
• Dimensions: 10.4 x 23.9 x 14.97 inches
• Lightweight when empty
• Fully leakproof
• Laser-cut gear attachment loops
• Comfortable strap
• Exterior pocket is mesh with no zipper

You likely know Hydro Flask for its insulated water bottles , but it also makes some excellent coolers. The Day Escape Cooler Tote is a lightweight yet large soft cooler, offering a 26-liter capacity. It’s also available in an 18-liter size if you want something smaller. When empty, it weighs just three pounds. It’s rigid enough that it holds its shape when you are loading or unloading, but it can compress slightly when empty to save space. 

The zipper on the Day Escape Cooler is a TRU Zip zipper, which is toothless, silent, and IP67-rated to prevent leaks. Getting it started the first few times is tricky, but it slides smoothly after that. The interior features a food-grade liner and is BPA-free . It’s waterproof and free of any folds or tight corners that might trap debris or liquid, making it easy to clean. There is an exterior pocket, but unfortunately, it’s made of mesh, so it won’t keep debris out, and there’s no zipper to keep things secure. 

The exterior of this cooler bag is made of a 600D polyester shell, which cuts down on weight and is very durable. There are handles on the sides, an adjustable and padded shoulder strap, and carrying handles. I haven’t had to carry it terribly far, but it’s comfortable for a short trek to the beach, at least. Hydro Flask promises 36 hours of ice retention, which isn’t as long as other soft coolers but impressive for its being lightweight. I left stuff in it overnight, and it was still plenty cold the next day, even with a small amount of ice.

• Capacity: 20 liters (also available in 12-liter capacity)
• Closure type: Magnetic
• Promised ice retention: Not provided 
• Empty weight: 5.6 pounds
• Dimensions: 9.9 x 15.3 x 18.1 inches
• Unique magnetic closure
• Very comfortable and easy to carry
• Lots of attachment points
• Top is challenging to buckle closed

Even with padded shoulder straps, soft coolers can be a pain to carry. If you need to take a cooler on a hike, you’ll be grateful to have a backpack version. The Yeti Hopper M20 is the best backpack cooler available thanks to its range of features and level of quality. The straps are nicely padded, making it comfortable to carry even when loaded. There’s even a chest strap to keep is secure on your body even during serious hikes. Lots of attachment points allow you to add accessories or clip on keys or bottle openers and handles on the sides and top for extra carrying options.

One unique feature of the M20 is the leak-resistant magnetic closure instead of a zipper. It makes it easier to open and close without keeping on top of lubrication, and you don’t have to worry about the zipper breaking. It snaps closed audibly, so you can trust it’s sealed up. Then, you fold it and use the two buckles to lock it down. Getting the buckles closed is a little challenging, but pushing the air out of the cooler helps a lot. Plus, the whole thing is extremely durable and can withstand punctures, abrasions, and UV rays. 

As expected from a Yeti, it stays cold for a long time. We forgot to unload it after taking it to the beach and definitely did not properly prime the cooler beforehand (threw in room-temperature items and only two ice packs), yet there was still some ice a few days later. It will definitely stay cold for a long time with proper prep and the correct amount of ice. As you might guess, the Hopper M20 is expensive at around $300. But the durable design, comfortable backpack-carrying style, effective insulation, and magnetic closure make it stand out and worthy of our best splurge.

Best large capacity: Engel HD30  

• Capacity: 30 liters
• Promised ice retention: 3 days
• Empty weight: 4.5 Pounds
• Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 18 inches
• Comfortable shoulder strap
• Large capacity
• Vacuum valve aids in keeping things cold
• Exterior pocket isn’t waterproof

The Engel HD30 is the way to go when you need lots of room. This soft cooler offers 30 liters of storage space yet weighs only 4.5 pounds when empty. Of course, as a larger cooler, it isn’t the easiest to carry, especially when packed full. But the shoulder strap is well padded, and the additional grab and side handles also give you carrying options. 

The Engel HD30 offers extremely effective insulation, keeping your food safe for up to three days. That’s partly thanks to the waterproof and air-resistant zipper that keeps the cold air in and warm air out. There’s also a unique vacuum valve, which allows you to use your household vacuum hose to suck out excess air between the insulation and outer waterproof layers.

The HD30 is incredibly durable and made of 840 denier fibers, which provides abrasion-resistant performance. There are six nylon daisy chains across the bag for attaching keys and other accessories, along with D rings near the top that can be used as tie-down points to keep it secure in the back of a pickup truck. A zippered pocket on the front is the perfect place to store a phone or some extra snacks, though it isn’t waterproof. 

Most durable: Yeti Hopper Flip 12

• Capacity: 12 liters (also available in 8 or 18-liter versions)
• Dimensions: 14.3 x 10.7 x 12.0 inches
• Extremely durable
• Wide opening
• Effective insulation

Yeti is well known for its excellent coolers (like our best overall cooler with wheels ), and the Hopper Flip is no exception. Available in 8, 12, or 18-liter capacities in a variety of colors, the Hopper Flip offers a wide opening for easy access and visibility. The wide opening and seamless interior make cleaning easier since there are no nooks or crannies to hide food or liquid. 

Both the interior and exterior are treated to be mildew resistant, extending the life of the cooler even if you forget to clean it out for a few days. The exterior withstands punctures, abrasions, and UV rays so that it will look nicer for longer, even with rugged adventures. It is waterproof and leakproof, with excellent insulation to keep your items cold for up to three days. 

The Hopper Flip features a well-padded shoulder strap for more comfortable carrying, as well as handles on the lid and sides. Daisy chains on the front and back make it easy to attach accessories or tie it down in your vehicle. As is true of all things Yeti, it is a premium product and on the expensive side. But you are getting a lot of quality and durability for that price, so we think it’s worth it for those who want a long-lasting, versatile, soft cooler (and that’s why the 18-liter size is the best overall pick in our best cooler bags ). 

Arctic Zone

• Empty weight: 1.78 pounds
• Dimensions: 22.00 x 10.00 x 14.50 inches
• Microban lining prevents odors
• Very lightweight
• More packable than other options
• Zipper isn’t leakproof

You don’t need to spend a small fortune to have a good soft cooler. The Arctic Zone Insulated Tote comes in under $40 but offers a 30-liter capacity with an exterior zip pocket. Despite the large capacity, it only weighs 1.78 pounds, making it the lightest soft cooler on our list. It isn’t rigid like some other options, so is somewhat collapsible, which may benefit some. 

The interior of this Arctic Zone tote measures 16.75 by 7.75 by 13.25 inches, which allows for some larger items. The interior lining is leakproof and features Microban antimicrobial protection to prevent odors should you forget to clean it out right away (or store stinky things in it). The base is extra thick so that the cold air doesn’t seep out, and it promises up to three days of ice retention. 

On the exterior you’ll find a padded shoulder strap with side carrying handles as well. A zippered pocket on the exterior stores keys and other essentials. Unfortunately, the zipper isn’t leakproof, and some report that it isn’t very durable, so it may not last as long as other coolers on our list. But the Arctic Zone Insulated Tote will get the job done if you just need a simple soft cooler that doesn’t take up much room for kids’ sporting events or car camping trips . 

What to consider when shopping for the best soft coolers

When shopping for a soft cooler, it’s important first to consider what you will be using the cooler for. A quick day trip has quite different requirements than a week-long vacation. Likewise, keeping some drinks cool is a lot different than keeping raw meat cold enough to be safe to eat. Knowing the primary purpose of the cooler will help you narrow in on the most important of the following factors: 

Capacity 

Choosing the right cooler capacity will ensure you have plenty of room for your food, drinks, and ice. Cooler capacity is frequently listed in reference to the number of cans it can fit. Some companies also list capacity in terms of quarts or liters. You’ll also want to keep in mind that the shape of the items you need to store in the cooler, as well as the shape of the cooler itself, will impact the practical capacity. 

What size is best depends on what you will be using the cooler for. You can get away with small coolers for short outings or lunch purposes, while multi-day trips will require quite a lot of room. 

Shape and structure

Nowadays, most soft coolers offer a rigid structure, keeping their shape even when empty. There are also collapsable coolers that allow you to pack them down. There aren’t a ton of options for these, but they are convenient for road trips or other times when space is limited. 

In terms of shape, some will offer a fully rectangular shape, which can make it easier to pack and access things at the bottom of the cooler. Others may have a narrower top compared to the base, making it difficult to access things at the bottom and limiting the size and shape of containers that can be stored at the top.  

Carrying style

Most soft coolers use a shoulder strap or hand straps for carrying. Ideally, the straps should have some padding, as even smaller coolers can get quite heavy when filled up. The shoulder strap works well for short distances, but can be challenging for walking a ways. If you know you’ll carry the cooler for longer distances, a backpack soft cooler may make more sense, as it distributes the weight more evenly and keeps the cooler out of the way while walking. 

While the soft cooler will inevitably be heavy when you fill it up, the empty weight is also important to consider. If it’s on the heavy side before you put things in it, that’s not a great sign. Weight becomes more important if you need to hike or walk with the cooler, so, in general, lightweight is better. 

Cutting down on weight does have a downside, though, usually resulting in less insulation or rigidity. There’s a balance to be had, to be sure. 

Compartments, extra pockets, and attachment points

Some (though not many) coolers will offer compartments inside to keep your items organized, which is helpful if you have lots of things to store. Certain offerings will also feature exterior pockets, making it easier to store items that don’t need to be in the cooler, such as utensils or even keys and phones. Finally, some utilize attachment points to attach items with straps or to connect accessories that you can purchase separately. 

Ice retention

Of course, none of the above features matter if the cooler doesn’t keep your items cold. Most manufacturers will promise some ice retention, but remember that those numbers are for very specific conditions. In the real world, how you prep the cooler, how often you open it, if there’s direct sunlight, and the ambient temperature will all impact how long the ice lasts. 

How much ice retention you need depends on what you use the cooler for. If you only use the cooler to transport your lunch to work or groceries home from the store, days’ worth of ice retention is overkill, and you’ll be spending money on something you don’t need. However, if you plan on taking the cooler on long camping trips or beach days in the hot sun, superb insulation for long ice retention will be a must. 

Q: Are soft coolers worth it?

Broadly speaking, yes, soft coolers are worth it. However, it depends on what one you choose. Plenty of cheap, poorly made soft coolers are liable to leak or not keep your items. But on the flip side, many robust and effective soft coolers rival hard-sided coolers while offering better portability and versatility.

Q: How long do soft coolers stay cold?

How long a soft cooler stays cold depends on many factors. To start, each individual cooler and brand offers different levels of ice retention. How you prep your cooler, the ambient temperature and amount of sunlight, and how often you open the cooler all make a difference in how long things will stay cold. 

Q: How do I make my cooler hold ice longer?

To make your cooler hold ice longer, there are some steps you can take ahead of time and while using it. First, prechill your cooler by filling it half full with ice overnight or, ideally, a full day before you need it. Keep it out of the sun and in a relatively cool place while prechilling. Prechilling your food or drinks will also help. Putting warm items in the cooler will melt the ice faster.  When it comes time to pack your cooler , try to use twice the amount of ice as the amount of food and drinks. Big blocks of ice will last longer than small cubes, but you can use small cubes to fill in spaces and minimize airflow. Alternating layers of ice and food or drinks will also help. Finally, be quick about opening and closing the cooler to keep the cold air in and warm air out and, when possible, keep it out of direct sunlight. 

Q: What size soft cooler do I need?

What size cooler you need depends entirely on what you are using the cooler for. If you are just packing a lunch for a short outing or for work, a mini cooler with a six cans-or-less (15 quarts or less) capacity will be plenty. For a casual day outing, anywhere from a 12 to 38 can capacity will be ideal. For a weekend trip, a cooler with a 16- to 50-quart capacity is best. For long weekend trips or large parties, 

Final thoughts on the best soft coolers

Gone are the days when your options for keeping things cool were flimsy insulated coolers, brittle styrofoam coolers, or heavy ice chests. There is certainly no shortage of high-quality soft coolers available these days, with options for just about every purpose under the sun. What is best depends on what you intend to store in it, where you need to take it, and how you prefer to carry it. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

Abby Ferguson is the Associate Editor for Gear and Reviews at PopPhoto, joining the team in 2022. She has been involved with the photography industry in various capacities since her undergraduate training at the University of Kentucky, with work ranging from client photography to program development and management of the photo department at Evolve, a vacation rental company. Education within the photography sphere has always been a big focus for Abby. She strives to help new and experienced photographers alike better understand the technology and techniques necessary to succeed within the medium. Contact the author here.

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Top Trips For Exploring The Russian Gems of St Petersburg And Moscow 10

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Russia is one of the world’s largest countries, and while it is famous for the architectural achievements and the wide open expanses, there is no doubt that visitors to Russia will find a destination that offers a very different experience compared to those in the West. The country has an immense landscape, and when it comes to getting around, there are a couple of options available. While domestic flights offer some impressive sights and a good look at the country, travelling across the country by train is one of the best ways of exploring Russia, and the route from St Petersburg to Moscow is one of the most popular routes in the country.

What To Do In St Petersburg

Lying on the banks of the Neva River, St Petersburg has long been one of the most important cities in Russia, and one of the most popular attractions here is the huge and impressive collection of art on display at the Hermitage Museum . Another of the popular destinations in the city is the Winter Palace, which was one of the grand palaces of historic Russia, while the series of building along Nevsky Prospekt is another place worth visiting. The Peter and Paul Fortress is another of the popular attractions, where many of the Romanov Tsars are buried, while it is also famous its role as a formidable prison.

How To Get From St Petersburg To Moscow

While you can take a flight from St Petersburg to Moscow, if you are on a slightly tighter budget or you simply want to enjoy some of the wonderful views, then taking the train between the two cities is a great option. There are several options available on this route that has been serving Russians for over 160 years, with the fastest Sapsan trains covering the distance in around 4 hours, while slower trains are cheaper and take you through many more of the towns and cities in this part of Russia. The Russian train tickets can be booked and purchased before you start your trip, which is a reassuring option for your Russian trip.

What To Expect On Your Railway Journey In Russia

The railways in Russia can vary significantly, but in truth the routes between the country’s two main cities are generally quite good. There are a range of different options, with the firmeny sleeper train among the fastest and most comfortable option, while other options will be cheaper, but with a lower quality cabin and experience. This route is one of the best serviced in the country, and many staff will speak English as well as Russian.

What To Do In Moscow

Russia’s capital is one of the world’s most famous cities, and at its heart is Red Square with the Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral being among the grandest places to see and explore in the city, while Lenin’s Mausoleum is also to be found here. Elsewhere in the city, the series of impressive range of classical music venues here are worth visiting, while Alexander Garden and Manezhanaya Square off small areas of green and wildlife in this bustling city. Whether your passion is for history, culture, shopping or sport, there are plenty of things to do in Moscow .

Interesting things just a little further away

One thing that some of my friends have recently suggested to do during a trip to Russia is to visit Chernobyl . I know what you are thinking… really??!!

Absolutely. It has become quite the tourist destination recently. One of the odd things to know is that since it was abandoned as a human habitation site, it has become one of the destinations with the greatest concentration of wildlife in Russia. And with the recent release of the HBO show about the tragedy and crisis, more and more visitors are headed there now.

Related posts:

10 thoughts on “ Top Trips For Exploring The Russian Gems of St Petersburg And Moscow ”

Nice Saint Petersburg !

Great post! Thanks for sharing this!

I have read this post its really amazing and effective. Thanks for sharing such a nice post

Moscow has always been on my bucket list!

Great post! Loved reading it throughout. The captures are amazing.

Russia is one of the best country in the world. It has a good place to enjoy the moment. Thanks for valuable sharing about Russia. It’s give me an idea for my next Russia trip

Nice article Russia is one of my favorite place to visit. Recently i visited Russia for FIFA World cup and it was one of my best experiences.

Hi your page is nice beautiful i like it very much i visit it daily because there is very goood content

Saint Petersburg is a special city for me. I spent seven weeks there volunteering and I lived some of the best moments of my life there. I came back there once, I know I will keep doing so every couple of years. BTW – your article sounds like the Hermitage and the Winter Palace are two different sights – but actually the museum is located inside of the Winter Palace so we get to see two in one 🙂 I’ve been to the Hermitage three times so far and I still feel I haven’t seen everything, it’s so huge. Definitely worth a visit. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Went to Moscow earlier this year, actually during the world cup. Really nice place that i didnt really expect.

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The 8 best neck pillows for travel.

Avoid a literal pain in the neck with these expert-approved travel pillows.

The Best Neck Pillows for Travel

Courtesy of Cabeau

The Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow is one of the best neck pillows for travel.

Just like the pillow you use at home , the best neck pillow for travel is the one that makes you feel most comfortable, allowing you to relax, rest and ultimately fall asleep on the go. The difference, however, is that a travel pillow is typically used when sitting up, which means it needs to provide enough support to keep your head from bobbing.

Based on recommendations from travel experts and advice from physicians, these are the best neck pillows for travel.

Best Overall: Cabeau Evolution S3

Best affordable: mvloc travel pillow, best for long flights: trtl travel pillow, best multipurpose: huzi infinity pillow, best inflatable: sunany inflatable travel pillow, best silk: slip jet setter travel pillow, best for backpacking: marchway ultralight inflatable camping pillow, best for kids: bcozzy double support neck pillow.

Frequent travelers praise the design of the Cabeau Evolution S3, which is made of a special dual-density memory foam. "My pillow at home is made with memory foam so it's like bringing a piece of home on my travels," says travel blogger Jasmine Cheng of The Wandering Girl . "The sides are also raised, which prevents my head from moving when I'm sleeping." Travelers also appreciate the patented seat strap system that attaches the pillow to a seat or chair headrest as well as the slim flattened back, both of which prevent the head from bobbing.

A handy storage pouch on the side of the pillow allows you to keep your earbuds or other small items close by, and the pillow comes with a clasp that attaches to carry-on luggage . The removable pillow cover, which comes in a variety of colors, is machine-washable. What's more, this travel pillow can be stored in an included carry bag that condenses it to half its size.

Price: $39.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Cabeau

Travelers appreciate the support (and the price tag) of this memory foam travel pillow. An adjustable rope lock allows you to secure the pillow to your neck for maximum support and comfort. The breathable and machine-washable cloth exterior prevents overheating. This travel pillow also comes with earplugs and an eye mask for ultimate relaxation.

Price: $29.99 or less Shop now: Amazon

Courtesy of Trtl

The patented design of the Trtl Travel Pillow – with a hidden internal neck support surrounded by soft, hypoallergenic fleece – makes it a favorite among travelers, particularly for long flights. "Something about it just hits right in a travel accessory category where nothing previously worked for me," explains Meaghan Clawsie, luxury travel advisor at Elated Escapes . "I no longer have any back or neck pain when resting on long-haul flights." Simply wrap the pillow around your neck like a scarf, secure it in place with its built-in fastener and rest your head on the support.

If you tend to overheat easily, there's also the Trtl Pillow Cool , made with Tencel fibers to keep you at a comfortable temperature; a mesh panel makes the pillow particularly breathable as well. Both pillows are machine-washable.

Price: $59.99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Trtl

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Courtesy of Huzi Design

If you're not sold on the classic U-shaped neck pillows for travel, consider this snake-like option instead. Able to be twisted into a variety of positions, the versatile Huzi Infinity Pillow provides whatever support feels best – even if that means resting your head on the tray table for a bit. You can also wear it around your neck like a scarf for neck and back comfort (even when you're not snoozing), use it as an eye mask, or drape it over your head if you get cold or want to block out noise.

Travelers love the pillow's bamboo fabric, describing it as soft, smooth and cool. Since it's filled with polyester, the whole pillow can be tossed in the washing machine , unlike its memory foam counterparts. The Infinity Pillow is available in nearly a dozen different colors, including gray, navy and pink.

Price: $45 or less Shop now: Amazon | Infinity Pillow

Read:  What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

Courtesy of Sunany

Travelers love the H-shaped design of this inflatable pillow because it allows for use in multiple directions and supports both sides of the head and neck with a flat back. A removable hood on the pillow is a bonus: It encourages a cozy feel and prevents cold drafts from too much air conditioning. For optimal comfort, it is recommended to inflate the pillow about 80% to 90%.

A pocket for your earbud case on this travel pillow provides convenient access for listening to music, and the removable velour cover is machine-washable. The lightweight inflatable pillow can be stored in the included waterproof drawstring bag, which can also be attached to luggage. This travel neck pillow is available in black, gray and blue.

Courtesy of Slip

Travel pillows don't get softer than this luxurious new option by Slip. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is made with the highest-grade long fiber mulberry silk, which helps to prevent skin creases and bedhead. It also comes with a carrying case with handles. The Jet Setter Travel Pillow is available in three prints and a pretty solid blush color.

Price: $99 or less Shop now: Amazon | Slip

While you can often bring your pillow from home for tent camping, backpacking requires something more lightweight, such as this inflatable option by Marchway. "An inflatable pillow is a game-changer when it comes to backpacking, and an ultralight pillow can't be beat," says Leilani Osmundson , digital producer for travel at U.S. News. "The Marchway pillow fits the bill: It's comfortable, packable and extremely lightweight." This pillow is designed for both back and side sleepers, and doubles as a lumbar support for everyday travels and needs. Once it's deflated, you can machine-wash the cover before folding the pillow into an included drawstring bag.

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Courtesy of BCOZZY

The BCOZZY neck pillow is ideal for all travelers – including kids, with small sizes for youngsters between 3 and 7 years old, and medium options for ages 8 and 12. Travelers like the ergonomic design of the patented pillow, which supports the head and neck by propping the chin up. Overlapping pillow arms, which wrap around the neck and under the chin, can be tightened based on the level of support you need.

If you or your child is a side sleeper, fold the pillow in half, double up the sides and place it on your shoulder, leaning your head to the side. An elevated side option allows you to overlap the pillow arms on top of each other and rotate it 90 degrees to the side for double support for the neck and chin.

This travel pillow is available in a variety of colors and patterns, including light blue and pink hearts. A snap strap attaches the included travel bag to your child's luggage , and you can throw the pillow in the washing machine after your trip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Experts agree a supportive pillow is essential for travel. "The biggest issue many travelers experience when sleeping on a plane is that the seats don't recline enough," explains Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a sleep/wake and performance specialist who is dual board certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine. "This often results in the head being just on the brink of tipping forward – which is not a comfortable sleeping position. Because of this insufficient recline, it is important to keep padding behind the head and neck minimal to reduce the tendency for the head to tip forward."

Most travel pillows are designed to be worn around the neck, providing enough support to prevent the head from tipping forward.

When shopping for a neck pillow for travel, experts recommend considering the following factors:

Proper head support:  What's most important is ensuring your head is supported in the right places by your travel pillow – and, in particular, not being pushed forward by excessive padding. "A good pillow would provide support for side sleeping, rather than a lot of padding behind the head, which just pushes the head forward too much," says Dimitriu.

Material: Consider both the external and internal material of the pillow:

External: Chiropractic physician Eric Smith advises to make sure the material of your travel pillow is breathable and won't subject you to an overheated sleep, since one of the main reasons for moving around a lot as you sleep is getting too hot. "When your face gets too hot on one side, even if you're sleeping, you're going to move from it because it's too warm," Smith explains.

There's no real consensus on which material is best for a cool, comfy sleep – and different people will have different preferences – so Smith's advice is to try before you fly (and don't hesitate to request a refund if your chosen pillow isn't working out).

• Internal: Memory foam pillows tend to offer more firm support – something Smith recommends for anyone, but especially older travelers. "The majority of patients I have that get older, we actually need a more firm pillow, we need a more firm bed, we need more support," Smith says. Pillows filled with microbeads mold more to the neck and head, while inflatable pillows can be adjusted to your preferences based on how much air you use to blow them up.

A travel pillow for your neck isn't considered a carry-on or personal item (and the same generally goes for small, loose items like jackets and umbrellas). That said, it's always best to review your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before traveling.

A good neck pillow for travel isn't the only key to achieving a decent sleep while in transit. "From the standpoint of evolution, we're kind of hardwired to be a little bit more on high alert in those situations," explains Rebecca Robbins, an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School and scientist at Boston's Brigham and Women's Hospital. "We're a little bit more in fight or flight mode; our brain is subconsciously scanning the environment for threats and there are new sounds and new smells."

She recommends finding elements that are relaxing to you, which might include some of the following:

• Travel blanket: Look for something lightweight, such as the EverSnug Travel Blanket on Amazon. This blanket comes with a carrying case, which can double as a pillow when the blanket is stored inside.
• Essential or aromatherapy oils: Scents like lavender and peppermint can be especially calming.
• Earplugs: Choose headphones that block some or all external noise. The Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Headphones are especially well rated.
• White noise app: There are a variety of free apps, or you can try a paid option like Calm (which offers a free trial).
• Eye mask: An eye mask like this cotton option on Amazon helps to block out the bright light on planes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Compression Socks for Travel
• The Top Walking Shoes for Travel
• The Top Carry-on Backpacks
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?
• The Best Travel Medical Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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