30 Best Camping East Coast Destinations: Wonderful Places for Exciting Vacation

What are the best camping East Coast destinations? Whenever I think of camping, the East Coast always comes to mind. Over the years, I have felt something special when going camping there. Be it solo or with family and friends.

The region offers diverse landscapes from rocky mountains, sandy beaches, and waterfalls making every camping experience unique. Join me and dive into 30 wonderful places to visit on your next vacation!

Quick Answer

Camping is one of the best joys in life, particularly in case you are doing it on the East Coast. The vicinity gives quite a few landscapes to discover, from lush inexperienced forests to mountain biking trails, there’s something for all and sundry.

Here are the top three camping locations you ought to don’t forget while you go to the East Coast:

1. Acadia National Park (Maine): Hiking along the rocky cliffs with crashing waves below is just magical. Don’t miss catching an Acadian sunrise over the ocean either
2. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia): You’ll be amazed by the blue range mountains. The camping grounds are a hiker’s paradise.
3. Edisto Beach State Park(South Carolina): Get to enjoy rich American history at this South Carolina oceanfront park full of biking and hiking trails.

If you are an outdoors person like me or a beginner interested in camping, keep reading! I will uncover amazing features of each place, locations, the best seasons to visit, and prices. We’re only getting started!

30 Best Camping East Coast Places To Visit in 2024

To help you plan your closing journey, I’ve compiled a complete manual on the first-class campgrounds alongside the East Coast.

1. White Mountain National Forest – New Hampshire

Just imagine – 750,000 acres of wilderness in New Hampshire and Western Maine! The White Mountains are a true camping paradise. The centuries-old pine forests and majestic granite peaks are literally mesmerizing. And there’s nothing to say about Dolly Kopp!

This campground with 189 sites is my personal gem. Located in a fabulous forest, each site is spacious and secluded. 51 parking lots are equipped with electricity. There are hot showers, normal toilets, and drinking water – all amenities. But the main thing is that there are endless opportunities for active rest right at the doorstep of your tent!

2. Watkins Glen State Park – New York

Watkins Glen is a special place in my heart. A scenic trail winding past 19 stunning waterfalls in a canyon 120 meters deep is a real fairy tale in real life. 276 camping sites are hidden under the canopy of lush forest crowns. 98 of them are equipped for campers with motorhomes.

The campground provides the perfect woodsy base with amenities like modern restrooms, hot showers, a playground, a camp store, potable water stations, and even wifi in some areas. From Late-May through Late October when it’s open, spending starry nights here makes you feel miles away from civilization. Despite being near highlights like Seneca Lake.

3. Shenandoah National Park – Virginia

Shenandoah National Park is a true shelter in the non violent beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Over 800 kilometers of trekking trails offer limitless opportunities for wasteland camping, which include the mythical Appalachian Trail. For individuals who opt for extra facilities, the park has 4 evolved campgrounds along Skyline Drive, a scenic one hundred seventy-kilometer avenue at the crest of the mountains.

Lewis Mountain, Matthews Arm, Loft Mountain, and Big Meadows campgrounds are equipped with restrooms, drinking water, and barbecues and provide stunning views. Big Meadows is the largest with 221 sites, paid showers, laundry facilities, and a campground storeroom. There is true harmony with nature here!

4. The Adirondack Mountains – New York

6 million acre playground of lakes, peaks, and trails in upstate New York – this is the Adirondacks offer! Over 200 pristine lakes and more than 2,000 miles of trekking trails wind via this untamed desolate tract. And that is without entrance fees by any means – it’s open for all people to explore for 12 months.

Now for camping, you’ve got options galore to suit every style. Craving a rugged back-to-basics experience? Bare-bones backcountry sites are your calling. Or maybe you prefer a touch of glam amid the great outdoors? Splurge on Huttopia’s decked-out glamping cabins from $120 a night. Feeling classic? Spots like Ausable Chasm from $35-60 offer a pool, camp store, and sweet hiking trails right at your tent door.

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – North Carolina and Tennessee

The Great Smokies’ ancient peaks and lush forests felt like stepping back into an unspoiled wilderness. This vast, half-million-acre park straddling Tennessee and North Carolina harbors some of America’s oldest-growth forests, diverse plants, and wildlife. 

Inside the park, Smokemont and Cataloochee are two top campgrounds – both $30/night with no electric hookups but access to potable water. Smokemont is open year-round while Cataloochee operates seasonally. Wherever you lay your head, prepare for unreal sunrises/sunsets over the misty mountaintops.

6. Acadia National Park – Maine

Exploring the craggy shoreline and towering granite peaks of Acadia appears like discovering a Northeast paradise. This coastal gem on Maine’s Mount Desert Island blends the rugged barren region with traditional New England attractions.

Just a 30-minute drive from bustling Bar Harbor, Seawall feels worlds away with its 102 non-electric tent and RV sites nestled amid pines. Snag one of the 43 tent-highest spots for $20-forty/night and use the seasonal water/sell-off station.

7. Mongaup Pond – New York

Mongaup Pond is a Catskills escape perfectly located near the city. Just a casual 2.5-hour drive from NYC and you’ll find yourself surrounded by dense forests and a shimmering lake that instantly melts stress away.

This pet-friendly gem serves up 163 non-electric sites perfectly situated for angling, paddling, or simply whiling away sunny days on the shaded shoreline. Rustic? Sure. But with hot showers, flush restrooms, and a dump station, you get that ideal balance of nature and modern comforts.

8. East Beach – Rhode Island

If you are looking for an off-the-beat-path beach camping spot, East Beach in Rhode Island should be at the top of your list. This undeveloped gem separates Ninigret Pond from the wide-open Atlantic, serving up miles of pristine sandy shores.

Wake up steps from the ocean in your self-contained RV, van, or truck camper at the no-frills campground with 15 total sites split into two loops. Don’t expect any hookups, true roughing is the name of the game here. But that seclusion is part of East Beach’s charm. Plus, you’ve got that jaw-dropping coastline all to yourself. Lounge, fish, or sign up for an offshore charter. This is beach camping at its purest.

9. Hither Hills State Park – New York

Hither Hill State Park in Long Island is one of the best locations for beach camping. Its location near a large freshwater lake gives it a 2-mile stretch of sandy shore which includes horseback riding trails.

If you decide to visit the place, you have options to choose from when it comes to camping sites with 190 grounds close to the beach. An added advantage is that you are not far from civilization so you can just drive to restaurants and shops in Montauk whenever you want.

10. River’s End Campground – Georgia

After a long drive from Atlanta, River’s End Campground on Tybee Island was the perfect family getaway. Our spacious hook-up R.V. site was nestled among the shady maritime forest, providing a shaded oasis steps from the beach. 

In the evenings, we strolled over to the beach to watch the sunset, then cooked s’mores over the fire pit before observing quiet hours from 10 pm. Despite the summer crowds, River’s End maintained a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere with enforced rules against rowdiness and complimentary picnic tables.

11. James Island County Park – South Carolina

Looking to explore Charleston’s charms without breaking the bank on hotels? James Island County Park has you covered with its full-amenity campground just a quick drive from downtown. Park your RV at one of the full hookup sites ($64-$75/night) or go rustic with tent camping ($35-$40).

No need to rough it too much though, James Island has all the creature comforts like showers, laundry, WiFi, and even shuttles($10) to take you straight into the heart of Charleston’s cobblestoned beauty. When you’re not indulging in Low Country cuisine, burn off calories by hiking, climbing, splashing around the waterpark, or trying camp activities like disc golf. This outdoorsy home base is the perfect launchpad for classic Charleston adventures.

12. First Landing State Park – Virginia

First Landing State Park down in Virginia Beach is a hidden campground located in the middle of all the VA Beach action. The real beauty is that First Landing is absolutely massive, 2,500 acres of forested trails stretch out in every direction. It’s so densely wooded that the hustle of Virginia Beach magically melts away.

13. Little River State Park – Vermont

Camping at Little River State Park is like returning to an early Vermont settlement. Located in the Mt. Mansfield forest, the camping site is perfect for people who love water adventures.

You can spend days fishing and swimming. There are a total of 81 RV sites, 20 lean-tos, and 5 cabins. Additionally, you get 27 remote backcountry sites that can only be accessed through hiking.

14. South Mountains State Park – North Carolina

South Mountains State Park is a unique campsite located approximately 70 miles from Asheville, North Carolina. It has impressive features like the high shoal falls and multiple mountain biking trails near the camping grounds. What makes this camping site unique from others is the presence of horse stalls and horse-only campsites. So, it is a family-friendly campground, especially if you love horse rides.

15. Edisto Beach State Park – South Carolina

You haven’t virtually experienced the East Coast seashores till you’ve got camped at Edisto. This gem of a kingdom park has it all, lovely coastline, shaded campsites, the entire 9 yards.

But what actually units it aside is the risk of witnessing something first-rate from May through October. During this period you get to look at Sea turtle hatchlings making their manner to the ocean. There are campgrounds, each of them supplying RV tent sites with electric-powered hookups.

16. Big Cypress National Preserve – Florida

For an exciting journey into Florida’s wild wetlands, no holiday spot compares to Big Cypress National Preserve. Spanning an tremendous 729,000 acres. It has a lot of secluded swamplands, prairies, and pine forests. So, Big Cypress offers countless possibilities for exploration and flora and fauna viewing.

Camping lovers have 8 one-of-a-kind sites to choose from scattered across the keep, all come with essential facilities.

17. Cape Hatteras National Seashore – North Carolina

Cape Hatteras is a real paradise for seashore enthusiasts. This particular location stretches for more than 110 km alongside three barrier islands. There are as many as 572 campsites scattered over 4 specific campgrounds. So there is a large desire for locations to stay – live with a tent or a trailer to suit your taste.

One of the campgrounds even has parking lots with electricity – a rare luxury in the middle of pristine nature! Cape Hatteras perfectly combines the romance of wild beaches and walks by the sea with modern conveniences. Experience this wonderful place with the whole family while summer lasts!

18. Fox Fire Riverside Campground – Tennessee

Fox Fire Riverside Campground is a 17-acre property in the great smoky mountain surrounded by the Pigeon River. The location makes it perfect for rafting and water activities during your camping trip. Apart from fishing, there are plenty of hiking trails and you get electric hookups at all the RV sites.

19. Hunting Island State Park – South Carolina

Hunting Island is a country park that offers tons of activities. Hiking, mountain cycling, dolphin-looking cruises – you may locate it all right here. There are a hundred RV and tent sites on site, plus 2 more normal camping sites.

In addition to hiking and birdwatching, you can visit the gem of the park the historic 1859 lighthouse. Hunting Island is where camping becomes a truly memorable adventure!

20. Dry Tortugas National Park – Florida

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the journey to Dry Tortugas National Park is an adventure. It’s a remote tropical paradise comprising 7 islands just 70 miles from Key West. The surrounding clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and giving you that unique camping experience.

If you can’t get there using a seaplane, there is a daily ferry with a capacity of 10 passengers, and remember to bring your camping gear since it’s a primitive camping site.

21. Four Mile Creek State Park – New York

Lake Ontario is the perfect getaway from city life. It is located along the shores of Four Mile Creek State Park and is maintained, with 172 spacious sites with electric hookups. Near are hiking trails winding through the densely wooded locations.

22. Provincetown Dunes Edge Campground – Massachusetts

Dunes’ Edge offers a classic Cape Cod camping experience in the rolling dunes and scrub pines. Cape Cod Peninsula is a town known to be LGBTQ+ friendly hence campers can enjoy the town’s shops and restaurants knowing they are in a safe space.

It has over 100 campsites which include bungalows and two shower buildings are onsite. You can enjoy the views and see some wildlife as you explore the 17-acre trails.

23. Hermit Island Campground – Maine

Accessible best by way of footbridge, Hermit Island feels like stepping back to a simpler era. You can explore the island’s winding trails each morning, wandering beyond tidal pools and rocky coves.

It has over 271 campsites however no RVs, trailers, or pets are allowed. Despite the restrictions and the region being so uptight, you may find warm showers and a snack bar in the tenting grounds.

24. Libby’s Oceanside Camp – Maine

If you’re looking for a Beverly Hills level of camping, Libby Oceanside Camp is the place to be. It defines luxury camping not only with the prices but also the quality of its camping sites.

The campground has a total of 75 sites, 45, of which overlook the sea giving travelers splendid views and breezes. Moreover, each site has RV hookups and loose Wi-Fi.

25. Everglades National Park – Florida

Everglades National Park is a vast river of grass stretching as far as the eye can see. The park has multiple entrances, including the Shark Valley entrance near Miami. It is available on a 15-mile tram tour.

Since it’s a protected area and home to wild animals like American crocodiles and panthers, there are only 2 campgrounds for RVs and Truck campers. You can access the backcountry using a boat where you’ll be housed in native Chickee Huts.

26. Ocean Lakes Family Campground – South Carolina

Ocean Lakes Family Campground is an East Coast paradise with nearly a mile of beachfront belongings. It is the biggest tenting ground within the location and accommodates 851 sites. All sites come with fully equipped RV hookups including sewers and WI-FI. Its massive size offers a list of fun activities for kids and it also includes a dog park.

27. Horseneck Beach State Reservation – Massachusetts

Horseneck Beach is a famous 2-mile-length sandy beach placed at the western stop of Buzzards Bay. The beaches are ideal for swimming and sunbathing in the Atlantic waters. The campground gives tenting sites for tents, trailers, and RVs, permitting traffic to spend nights below the stars via the ocean.

The centers include a boat ramp, dishwashing stations, dumpsters, showers, and trailer RV dumping stations.

28. Cape Henlopen State Park – Delaware

Cape Henlopen State Park is a real natural gem. It is located at the mouth of the Delaware Bay and offers over 6 miles of shoreline. This place will excite you with maritime forests, wetlands, and coastal dunes. You can swim and sunbathe and features 177 camping sites.

29. Hammocks Beach State Park – North Carolina

Hammocks Beach State Park gives a completely unique coastal enjoyment with its barrier islands accessible simplest by way of ferry or paddling. Upon stepping onto the 4-mile-long peninsula, you’ll discover yourself in a serene paradise.

Open fires are not allowed so keep in mind bringing a propane range to one of the 14 primitive campsites. For the adventurous, the park offers ample opportunities to explore its various ecosystems through hiking trails and paddling routes.

30. Charlottesville Hipcamp 

Charlottesville Hipcamp’s Private Paradise on Rivers Bend is a scenic riverside campsite. Despite its proximity to Charlottesville, the campsite seems like a unique nature getaway surrounded by the aid of green plants. It’s a great spot for a short tenting ride without venturing too some distance from urban amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The East Coast offers unique camping destinations catering to every taste. For those seeking seclusion in nature, Shenandoah National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Little River State Park provide serene woodland retreats. Beach lovers can pitch a tent along the sandy shores at spots like Horseneck Beach, East Beach, and Hither Hills State Park.

Families will delight in the full amenities of campgrounds like James Island County Park($60-$77 RV sites, $35-$40 tent sites, year-round), and Ocean Lakes Family Campground($55-$120 per night, open year-round).

Whether you prefer rugged hiking through places like South Mountains State Park, paddling to remote islands like Hammocks Beach, or splashing in the waters of Everglades National Park, you’ll be excited about the best East Coast camping locations to experience it all.