Best Destinations for Winter Camping

Best Destinations for Winter Camping
Pavlo Lysyy Update October 27, 2024 8 mins read time

 

The winter season is the perfect time to plan an outdoor adventure, enjoy breathtaking views of nature, get that snowy feeling, and have unique camping experiences.

Even though camping trips are often associated with summer, many outdoor lovers like to travel during winter. Fewer crowds, no bugs, lower prices at beautiful campsites, or even the chance to spend winter in a place with mild temperatures - all make winter camping an amazing idea to break out of the routine.

The main task is to prepare well: have reliable 4 season tents, pack your camping gear, and get useful items, such as a tent stove to feel comfortable in cold weather. The next step is to choose an interesting spot from the winter camping destinations list.

To make things easier for you, we have picked some of the best places to camp in the winter, worth adding to the travel bucket list. Discover their features & benefits to find your perfect spot for an unforgettable winter camping experience!

Here are #17 amazing places to camp in the winter to look at:

Tucson in Arizona

A pleasant climate, dry season in winter, and numerous attractions in this historical city make Tucson one of the best winter camping destinations. Here, you can explore deep caverns and enjoy miles of hiking trails with stunning views.

Tucson is ideal for travelers who are interested in history. Among the most popular museums are the Pima Air and Space Museum and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. In the first, you can find about 400 historic aircraft and various exhibits, while in the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, you can spend time in the zoo and botanical garden.

Fans of outdoor activities should include in their plan Colossal Cave Mountain Park, where they can enjoy an underground tour of the cavern system; above-ground amenities include a picnic area.

If you want to explore the canyons, Tumamoc Hill is the best place.

Winter camping in Arizona is perfect for those who prefer warmer temperatures and want to learn something new!

The Florida Keys

Among the warm winter camping places, the Florida Keys is worth mentioning. This location will give you a real adventure and unique impressions!

With spectacular sunsets, plenty of fun things to do, and a warm climate, visiting the Florida Keys is not only a chance to extend your camping season but also an opportunity to experience Florida's natural beauty and diversity.

You can learn more about marine mammals, visit museums and greenhouses, go hiking or biking along the Florida Keys International Heritage Trail, as well as snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Dry Tortugas, and visit the Biscayne Underwater Park. In any case, if you want to diversify your camping with water activities and nature exploration, you should include The Florida Keys in your places to camp in the winter list.

New Orleans in Louisiana

Another winter camping spot if you are looking for a warm place with plenty of activities is New Orleans in Louisiana.

Here, travelers can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and the world-famous carnival season, which begins in January. New Orleans offers a wealth of experiences with numerous tours and unique neighborhoods to explore!

Whether it is exploring cemeteries and swamps or shopping and visiting some of the most famous cafes and restaurants such as Café du Monde and Commander’s Palace, New Orleans is deservedly included in the list of best places to camp in winter, as here it is warm and always something to do!

South Padre Island in Texas

Winter camping in Texas offers a unique combination of nature and entertainment. Among the places to camp in winter, South Padre Island is worth mentioning. This barrier island, washed by the waters of Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, attracts travelers with a mild climate with warm temperatures during cold weather months. What’s more, there are activities for the whole family: from deep-sea fishing to relaxing on white-sand beaches.

Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe local fauna, including sea turtles at the rehabilitation center Sea Turtle, Inc. Walks along the boardwalk, excursions to the nature center and alligator sanctuary complete the experience of this picturesque corner of South Texas, making South Padre Island a wonderful vacation destination!

Savannah in Georgia

Like the aforementioned best places to camp in the winter, Savannah, Georgia attracts with its mild climate, perfect for outdoor activities. In this city, you can discover a variety of activities: from nights around a campfire in tent sites to exciting excursions.

Nature lovers should visit the Oatland Island Wildlife Center and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Tybee Island and Hilton Head beaches are just a half-hour drive away. Historic Downtown Savannah can be explored on foot or by taking a tour of the "haunted city." In addition, Old Fort Jackson offers daily demonstrations, and the historic Savannah Theater, open since 1818, remains a cultural landmark for lovers of art and history. So, there is something for everyone here!

Charleston in South Carolina

Charleston in South Carolina also has a variety of activities to offer tourists. You can explore the city on a scenic carriage ride, learning about its history and landmarks, enjoy Charleston’s food scene from fine dining to cozy breweries and bakeries, or visit nearby beaches like Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, perfect for winter picnics by the sea and popular with nature lovers.

Also, foodies should check out the famous culinary festivals – the Charleston Wine & Food Festival and the Lowcountry Oyster Festival, which usually take place in the winter, offering a unique experience!

Oliver Lee Memorial State Park in New Mexico

Located in the Sacramento Mountains, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is one of the best winter camping spots. Going here you can enjoy all the richness of nature's diversity. The park is home to various animals, including badgers, mule deer, coatis, and many other representatives of fauna.

For those who like hiking, the park has many trails of varying difficulty. You can go on a short excursion along the Riparian Nature Trail or challenge yourself by choosing the Dog Canyon Trail, which is more difficult but no less exciting!

In any case, if you are looking for a winter camping locale to be in nature and have a great time with friends, Oliver Lee Memorial State Park is just the place!

Buccaneer State Park in Mississippi

If you like the pirate theme, then you should visit Buccaneer State Park. French pirate Jean Lafitte used to practice piracy here, and his old house is located next to the park.

The landscape of this place is represented by swamps and sandy beaches, as well as you can find a variety of activities, including hiking along the Pirate’s Alley Nature Trail, disc golf, and nature watching.

The temperature during the day is around 60 degrees, but there can be cold nights, so bring warm clothes.

F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Georgia

With over 40 miles of hiking trails, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is among the popular winter camping destinations for nature lovers. With picturesque views and rolling mountains, the park provides a pleasant visual experience.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to do here, as the park is home to a large number of different bird species. As a bonus, the crystal clear skies at night, especially in cold temperatures, make stargazing here unrivaled!

Ahupua’a o Kahana State Park in Hawaii

If you prefer to spend your winter in warmer climates, then Ahupua’a o Kahana State Park in Hawaii is worth adding to your bucket list.

This park covers over 5,000 acres of untouched nature and stretches from the sea at Kahana Bay to the crest of the Ko’olau Mountains.

Winter temperatures here are quite comfortable (60-80 degrees). However, it is worth checking the weather forecast before going, as some areas often experience rain.

Ahupua’a o Kahana State Park is a great winter camping destination if you enjoy hiking and swimming all year round!

Best National Parks & Campgrounds to Visit

Furnace Creek Campground in Death Valley National Park

Furnace Creek Campground is the perfect place for a winter getaway. The moderate climate and spectacular scenery create a unique atmosphere.

Surrounded by desert and snow-capped mountains, this campground offers solitude with nature and stunning views. Also, its remoteness from cities makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. There are picnic tables, fire pits and toilets on site.

It is worth noting that winter is the peak season, so you need to book tent sites in advance. If you can’t decide on places to camp in the winter, you can safely choose Furnace Creek Campground, as this location is ideal for a winter holiday among spectacular desert landscapes!

Mather Campground in Grand Canyon National Park

Mather Campground at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is another great winter camping spot. It offers spectacular views of the canyon, especially at sunrise and sunset! Visitors can stay at more than 300 tent and RV sites that are accessible year-round.

Each site has a table and grill. There are also restrooms and waste disposal stations, but no utility hookups. Hiking trails and ranger programs are available in the winter. Mather is popular for its combination of stunning scenery and a variety of activities, even in the colder months.

Cottonwood Campground in Joshua Tree National Park

Another great place to visit is Cottonwood Campground in Joshua Tree National Park. There are over 60 tent and RV sites available, each equipped with a table and fire pit. There are also restrooms nearby, but no utility hookups.

When planning your trip to this campground, be sure to bring enough warm clothing and camping essentials for winter camping. Also, keep in mind that winter is the peak season, so book early!

Located in the center of Joshua Tree, Cottonwood provides easy access to popular trails and attractions. Head here to enjoy the stunning desert views and have a great time with friends!

Congaree National Park in South Carolina

This national park in South Carolina is a wilderness area with a variety of fauna and flora. One of the main features of Congaree National Park is the old deciduous trees that create stunning scenery.

In winter, this place is characterized by slightly cooler temperatures, but snow rarely falls. Also, there are fewer mosquitoes and humidity during winter, so if you want to enjoy camping without insects and bugs, then planning your trip to Congaree National Park in Hopkins in winter is a great idea!

Death Valley National Park in California

Death Valley National Park is among the most popular camping places in California. This destination in Inyo County is known as America's lowest point. What’s more, it is also one of the hottest places with more than 3 million acres of desert and mountain landscape!

Since it is really hot during summer here, Death Valley is considered a perfect spot for winter camping. The least crowded time to visit is between Thanksgiving and Christmas. During this period you can enjoy solitude in nature and privacy.

Visitors can stay at available privately owned campgrounds nearby, where they can set up their camp while admiring the beautiful scenery of Death Valley with fewer people and noise!

Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park offers solitude in the wilderness, but winter camping requires serious preparation for harsh conditions, as cold and heavy snow are the norm here.

Choose your gear carefully: dress in layers and pack extra gear. Also, a permit is required for camping in the backcountry.

You can consider a variety of stay options in Grand Teton, whether you prefer a tent or an RV. Overall, this is the perfect spot for a real winter camping experience with snow and freezing air!

Wyoming

 

Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado is home to some of the tallest sand dunes in North America. This place is located in southern Colorado, just over 30 miles from Alamosa.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is among the popular spots for winter camping in Colorado. Visitors can enjoy the unique atmosphere of this place and the magnificent sand landscapes that provide a pleasant visual experience. So, when in Colorado, be sure to visit Great Sand Dunes at least once!

Tips for Warm Winter Camping

When planning a trip in the winter season, pay attention to the following aspects:

  • Choose the right tent. The best solution is a four-season model with a sturdy frame.
  • Use a quality sleeping bag with an appropriate temperature rating (take 15 degrees below the expected temperature at the place).
  • Insulate yourself from the cold ground with a mat and footprint.
  • Dress in layers, giving preference to moisture-repellent materials.
  • Stay on the move and drink plenty of water to keep warm and hydrated.
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