The United States boasts some of the world’s most spectacular national parks, offering endless opportunities for hiking, backpacking and camping. From the soaring peaks of Yosemite to the rugged landscapes of Joshua Tree, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore. Here are some of the best national parks in the United States for backpacking and camping.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is a must-see destination for backpackers and campers in California. The park’s towering granite cliffs, sweeping meadows, and stunning waterfalls draw visitors from all over the world. Backpackers can explore the park’s vast wilderness on multi-day backpacking trips, with options ranging from strenuous routes to easier family-friendly hikes. The park features thirteen campgrounds, most of which are open seasonally and offer facilities such as showers and restrooms.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States. Backpackers can embark on backcountry camping and hiking trips, taking in the stunning vistas and unrivaled scenery of the canyon’s rugged terrain. With over 1,500 miles of trails to explore, there’s no shortage of options for hikers and campers in search of adventure. The park has four campgrounds that offer a range of amenities, including access to the canyon’s nearby trails.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a stunning destination for adventurous backpackers and campers looking to explore Montana’s rugged wilderness. The park features over 700 miles of trails through magnificent mountain ranges, pristine forests, and dramatic valleys. Backpackers can embark on multi-day trips and experience the park’s untamed landscapes first-hand. The park has thirteen campgrounds that offer a range of facilities, from primitive tent sites to full hook-ups for RVs.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Located just a few hours east of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park is a fantastic destination for backpackers and campers looking to explore the desert landscapes of Southern California. The park features miles of hiking and backpacking trails through rugged rock formations, gorgeous wildflowers, and towering Joshua trees. While backcountry camping is possible, the park has nine campgrounds, offering ample facilities and amenities for visitors.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park in Maine is a stunningly beautiful destination for backpackers and campers seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park boasts more than 120 miles of hiking trails through gorgeous forests, stunning mountain peaks, and tranquil shorelines. There are three campgrounds located within the park’s borders, all of which offer breathtaking views and easy access to hiking trails and other park amenities.
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Rocky Mountain National Park is an astonishingly beautiful destination for backpackers and campers looking to explore the magnificent wilderness of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The park features over 350 miles of hiking trails, from easy strolls through the park’s meadows to strenuous backpacking treks across rugged terrain. There are five beautiful campgrounds scattered throughout the park, all of which offer incredible views and a range of facilities from primitive tent sites to full hook-ups for RVs.
In conclusion, the United States has some of the most spectacular national parks in the world, offering avid backpackers and campers the opportunity to explore stunning landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime hiking experiences. From the towering peaks of Yosemite to the rugged terrain of Glacier and the Grand Canyon, these national parks are sure to leave a lasting impression.