Mount St. Helens, in Washington state
Photo by: Martyn E. Jones (Stock Exchange)

Where can you see rain forests, mountains, and arid deserts peppered with terrific camp grounds, all situated along a beautiful, pristine frontier?

Well, good news: not all campsites matching this description are down in South America or somewhere around the world! In fact, if you answered Washington state, you’re exactly right!

And that makes Washington the next stop on AllCampgrounds’ 50 States Series, where we’ll begin, as we often do, with tent camping. RV camping is on the horizon for next time!

American Heritage Campground: Owned and operated by the Heck family for generations, American Heritage is one of the best-maintained parks around. Secluded among 25 acres of the region’s iconic Douglas firs, all campsites offer picnic table and fire ring, whether you’re there for tent camping or a visit in the old RV. Open between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, summer heralds the arrival of daily activities for the whole family, and no matter what’s going on, you can always visit the outdoor swimming pool, paved bicycle course, and 5,000 square foot pole pavilion.

Cape Disappointment State Park: One thing you can say for Washington is that it has some of the most “interesting” park names. Luckily, you won’t be disappointed by this nearly 2,000 acre state park situated on the Long Beach Peninsula. With two full miles of beach on the Pacific Ocean, framed by two historic lighthouses, you can enjoy hiking and camping here all year around. Offering a terrific array of 137 tent camp grounds and 60 full hookup RV sites, it also boasts some unusual lodging: five primitive sites, three cabins, and fourteen yurts! (Yes, yurts!) Reservations are open all year!

Deception Pass State Park: Deception Pass has over 4,000 acres of land to explore, including significant amounts of both fresh and saltwater shore perfect for anglers of all experience levels. Boat rentals are available on the camp grounds, with three freshwater boat ramps and over 700 feet of saltwater dock. Catfish, cod, salmon, trout and others are prevalent, and Deception Pass is one of the only state parks anywhere I know that also encourages crabbing and clamming on its shores.

Howard Miller Steelhead Park: One of the smaller sites we’ve discussed here on AllCampgrounds, Howard Miller Steelhead still has a lot to recommend it! With ten tent sites and about 50 RV sites with various hookups (including three with none at all) you might not expect much from the place – but you can’t forget about the vibrant river rafting scene based out of HMSP. The park hosts literally thousands of private and commercial rafters every year, and has been operating since 1966; so it’s well known in the rafting community, and open year around. Interested in getting a start in rafting? Don’t forget to check out our earlier posts on choosing a raft and basic techniques!

Sunset Over Lake Marantha
Photo by: Dave Shields (Stock Exchange)

Welcome back, one and all, to the AllCampgrounds blog!

Continuing our journey across the United States, we reach the central plains, heading to the heart of cattle country, to visit Nebraska.

Just shy of the geographical center of the U.S., it’s a land dotted with small towns, often with no more than 1,000 residents.

The famous city of Omaha is the largest, but with a lot of wide open spaces come a lot of great tent camping opportunities, plus RV camping both near and far away from urban centers.

Now, let’s mosey through the area once called “Where the West Begins” and find a place to set up camp!

Buckley Park: Found near Stromsburg, Buckley Park is a preferred destination for those traveling across the scenic Highway 81 in Nebraska. A paradise for all kinds of camping, it features both a large ground for primitive tenting and a total of 34 RV electrical hookups. Buckley Park operates on a donation basis, with two-day stays provided free of charge – unfortunately, longer stays must be approved by the City Office. That said, though, the park is chock full of great, well-maintained features including a heated pool, covered dining pavilions, horseshoe complex, and more.

Broken Arrow Wilderness: Just north of Fullerton, Broken Arrow is set among beautiful oaks, framing the camp grounds and the historic “Lover’s Leap.” With plenty of wilderness trails crisscrossing the area around the Cedar River, you can enjoy a range of activities on land or in the current. Popular water sports include canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and tanking. Sportsmen (and women, of course!) can find thriving whitetail deer, turkey, and pheasant. If this is more your style, Broken Arrow has your back, with full hunting packages including your own guide, lodgings, and prepared meals.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park: And where would we be if we didn’t mention some top state parks? Eugene T. Mahoney is open year ‘round (though some facilities are seasonal) and is one of the most modern parks in the entire state. There are a range of camp grounds to choose from, including Lakeside, which has free internet access. One of the most beloved features in the park is the esteemed Peter Kiewit Lodge, which can accommodate visitors in 40 lavish rooms, most with decks overlooking the Platte River. Families are encouraged to visit and enjoy the Aquatic Center, complete with water slides and wading pool. There’s even a small theater on the camp premises.

Fort Robinson State Park: Fort Robinson is probably the most famous of the state parks in Nebraska. The historic fort, standing since the pioneer days, has seen everything from the death of legendary warrior-chief Crazy Horse to World War II. In the present, it serves as the centerpiece of a popular public park that attracts visitors from far and wide to enjoy 22,000 acres of prime Pine Ridge wilderness. As is the custom in Nebraska’s historic parks, there’s a wide range of overnight options, including the facilities used by enlisted men in 1909! Fort Robinson is one of the most welcoming places around for horse riding, and there’s also a range of guided tours to choose from.

Mountain lake of Idaho
Photo by: Benjamin Earwicker (Stock Exchange)

AllCampgrounds is glad to see you back for another camping extravaganza here on our blog.

We’re going to continue our trek through Idaho now, leaving Shoshone Falls and Snake River behind to uncover the secrets of the rest of this rugged and wonderful land.

As usual around here, we’ll give tent camping a go before we swing by some RV camp grounds in our next post. Remember, despite its clean-cut “nice state” image, Idaho is mountainous and serves as the gateway to six states and the Canadian province of British Columbia.

We could write a book on the terrific camping here, nevermind a post or three!

Some of the Best Tent Camping State-Wide

Last time, we stuck close to the course of the Snake River, so let’s explore further …

Payette National Forest Camp Grounds: The Payette National Forest covers almost 2.3 million miles of forest. Dispersed along the forest are 60 separate camp sites, many oriented near lakes or creeks. All campsites come with access to drinking water. Some are accessible to handicapped visitors, and about half also include access for RV camping. Beware of rain and melting snow, which might make some camp grounds inaccessible or cause temporary closures.

Ponderosa State Park: Ponderosa State Park is located on about 1,000 acres of a peninsula surrounded by the picturesque waters of Payette Lake. There are plenty of campsites, all of which can be reserved in advance, and pets are welcome if kept securely leashed at all times. Ponderosa is best known for its hiking and biking, as well as magnificent views of the lake available from some outlooks. Naturalists provide guided tours which can help you get the most out of birding and other nature viewing. In the winter, patrons can enjoy skiing and snowshoeing on some of the best-maintained trails in the state.

Picnic Point: Though Picnic Point only has eight camp grounds to choose from, this tent-only camp deserves mention for its great location. Standing at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, it’s nestled on a bluff above Warm Lake, shaded by majestic Ponderosa pines and offering fishing opportunities for a whole range of game trout. Beyond the lake, you can enjoy mountain biking or take your favorite ATV (or horse!) out for a spin. There are 20 miles of ATV trails, and a swim beach only about a mile from the center of camp. Cabins are also operated nearby, so bring the whole family.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve: Admittedly, Craters of the Moon does not have its own developed camping or lodging opportunities, though back-country camping is available with a permit. But as a unique attraction goes, this definitely deserves to be mentioned. Described by the NPS as “a vast ocean of lava flows”, it offers a truly unique landscape for hiking, exploring the one-of-a-kind cave systems, and (in season) skiing or snowshoeing across the trails.

The enchanting Maine coastline
Photo by: yellowssub (Stock Exchange)

Welcome back to AllCampgrounds!

In today’s post we’ll drop by New England to look at camp grounds in the beautiful state of Maine, which borders Canada in the northeast corner of the United States.

With easy access to the state of New Hampshire and two Canadian provinces, Quebec and New Brunswick, this is a great area to serve as base for camping adventures in both countries.

This time, we will discover some tent camping sites, with RV parks and campgrounds coming right up in our next visit.

There are some fantastic resources on the ‘net to learn more about Maine. The Maine Campground Owners’ Association has built an entire Maine Camping Guide for your viewing pleasure, which has information divided by region and activity. You can also opt in to the MCOA’s rewards card and find out all about participating campgrounds. Kampgrounds of America also maintains a useful list of all campsites from KOA in Maine. From their handy map interface, you can also scope out KOA properties in New Hampshire and in adjacent Canadian territories. Also, visit the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands for facts on public lands, including reservations.

Lakefront camping in the norm in Maine, with all the waterfront enjoyment you’d expect.

Top Tent Camping Grounds in Maine

Acadia National Park: The Acadia area is the most popular destination for camping in the state, and the crossroads of a huge variety of public and private campgrounds within reach of Bar Harbor. Acadia National Park, the first national park established east of the mighty Mississippi, encompasses several local islands and offers two camp grounds that welcome tent campers: Blackwoods and Seawall. There is no backcountry camping; all sites are wooded and within a short walk from the water. Note that a strict quarantine is in place for firewood from outside the park!

Honey Run Campground and Beach: Located on 93 acres around the picturesque Worthley Pond, you can choose from meadow or wooded sites for your tent camping expedition. Visitors spend a leisurely time on the private beach, and those of a more rugged disposition are encouraged to enjoy primitive camping out on the nearby mountain, offering a terrific view of crystal clear Worthley. Naturally, swimming and boating are available to all. Just be aware of the rather extensive list of rules and regulations provided by the management of this private park.

Stetson Shores Campgrounds: Found in central Maine, Stetson Shores runs alongside the three-mile Pleasant Lake. With 32 acres total, there is an especially diverse array of sites to meet your fancy: you can choose from wooded or open sites, on the lake or in more secluded areas at will. Every site includes fireplace, picnic table, artesian well and electrical hookup. Anglers can expect “bass fishing you won’t believe!” and there is ample equipment rental for kayaks, paddleboats, and canoes.

One of Louisiana’s “lucky” blue herons
Photo by: Pam Roth (Stock Exchange)

Howdy, AllCampgrounds fans! As promised, here’s a look at the best digs for tent camping around Louisiana.

Remember, all campsites throughout the state are currently open for business, so don’t be afraid to visit – you’ll be more than welcome! Last time, we did a whole slew of RV parks and campgrounds, so this time it’s on to tent camping.

And there are plenty of choices here, too!

Jellystone Park: The park named for the home of that famous talking bear is a wild wonderland for kids. During the summer camping season, you can get all day unlimited use of pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks, not to mention continuous access to the mini-golf course. With almost 400 individual camp grounds and nearly 100 cabins to rent, you’ll never be lonely or want for something to do at “Jellystone.” Kids can enjoy the Yogi Bear Fan Club or learn about social responsibility with the Jr. Ranger program, which encourages youngsters to get involved volunteering. As you can see from the official calendars, pretty much every day has events, with new themes every week!

Tchefuncte Campground: A great camping park with a funny name, Tchefuncte (chuh-FUNK-tuh) is found right on the 48-mile river called by the same handle. The center of camp life here is the terrific recreation center that often plays host to live bands. Between thrilling live shows, the place has much to offer hikers, swimmers, and anglers of all experience on the river. It’s also convenient to Fairview-Riverside State Park, with 100 campsites on just about as many acres. From Fairview-Riverside, you can get a close look at Louisiana’s precious wetland habitats.

Hidden Oaks Family Campground: Another top choices for families and campers of all ages, providing a full docket of weekend bands with a bayou flavor and week-long events rocking local and national holidays around the calendar. Come by for the Mardi Gras celebration, annual H.O.G. rally, the Strawberry Festival, or a delicious crawfish boil, among many more. Tent camping abounds no matter your preference, with sites offering electrical hookups or plain “primitive” camping year ‘round. RVs are welcome, too!

Kinkaid Lake at Kisatchie National Forest: With a beautiful lakeside setting nestled within the 604,000 acre pine-covered hills of Kisatchie National Forest, Kinkaid Lake is one of the most inviting public camp grounds in the state of Louisiana. There are plenty of sites to choose from whether you want to enjoy miles and miles of forested hiking trails, equestrian riding, or fishing. Kisatchie is peppered with lakes serviced by totally modern camp grounds with equally modern flush toilets for your “camping bathroom.” Planning a reunion or get-together? Kisatchie is a perfect choice for group use.

Red Rock Canyon, outside Las Vegas
Photo by: John Evans (Stock Exchange)

Hello again from AllCampgrounds!

Today, we continue on our quest to camp all 50 states by dropping in on the camping scene in Nevada. Not the first place you think of when you think camping?

You’re not alone: millions of people flock to Las Vegas every year, but only a fraction go out and enjoy the state’s many camp grounds.

We’re going to do our small part to change that today, introducing you to some of Nevada’s great tent camping opportunities. RV camping, which is a good deal more widespread, will follow soon!

When camping in Nevada, you’ll want to avoid the summers, where the mid-day heat can easily exceed 110 degrees. Winters are more mild, but night-time temp in the winter can also be severe, while daily temperatures are a welcoming 40-60 degrees. Snow is virtually non-existent, but tents and bedrolls need to be well-constructed and well-insulated. Also, be aware of water: conserve during the evening and stay well-hydrated in the day. Heat exhaustion can happen before you know it, and sunscreen is a must!

Tent Camping in Nevada …

Valley of Fire State Park: At first glance it might seem like the Nevada wilderness is “empty”, but places like Valley of Fire prove it’s anything but. Marked by fascinating formations of red sandstone, Valley of Fire is the state’s oldest, and also it’s largest, state park. It includes over 70 camp grounds with shaded tables, grills, restroom facilities, and water. All campsites in Valley of Fire are “first come, first serve.”

Lake Tahoe: Beautiful Lake Tahoe is one of the largest lakes in North America. Shared between California and Nevada, it’s a developed tourist destination in its own right, dotted with lodges and luxury hotels that offer fishing, boating, and winter sports. For the camping crowd, Tahoe has just as many great opportunities in store. On the Nevada side, there are three state parks in the Tahoe area. Combined, these offer dozens of developed sites, as well as beautiful backcountry for hiking, riding, and biking.

Walker Lake: Lake Tahoe may be one of the most famous, but it’s by no means the only lake around. For those who find the idea of 100-degree heat a little bit oppressive, lakefront camping offers huge advantages, and Walker Lake in western Nevada is a great choice. At Sportsman’s Beach, the top location for fishing, you’ll find 31 campsites and two undeveloped areas. Once again, stock up on water: developed sites include vault toilets as your free “camping bathroom”, but there is no drinking water, which many other Nevada camp grounds provide.

There are many other state parks and private camp grounds around Nevada. For a handy chart containing information on state park fees, click here. We’ll look at RV camping in the area soon!

The trees of Tennessee
Photo by: Eric Camil, Jr. (Stock Exchange)

Tennessee may be the land of Nashville and bluegrass, but did you know it’s also a great place for camping?

On this edition of AllCampgrounds, we’ll be looking at some of the best tent camping opportunities in Tennessee.

With plenty of great rivers, mountains, and free backcountry camping at all state parks that offer it, this southeastern state is especially inviting for mountaineers and boating enthusiasts who want to get out into the wild and go camping quick.

There’s also camping potential convenient to famous landmarks like Graceland, the historic estate of Elvis Presley.

Not every state has all of its park information conveniently centralized, but Tennessee is an exception. At Tennessee State Parks Reservation Information, you can see a detailed map and index of what the parks have to offer, including breakdowns by area, activity, and availability of backcountry permits. Only two of the parks’ camp grounds offer reservations, though, which means those two are probably of greatest interest to our far-ranging camping community. These are Meeman Shelby, in western Tennessee, and Rock Island, near the middle of the state.

Meeman Shelby: With two lakes and miles of prime hiking opportunities bordering the Mississippi River, Meeman Shelby is famed for its boating and fishing. Anglers contend with record bigmouth bass, and can also try their luck catching catfish and bream. There are just under 50 campsites total, all of them including amenities like electric and water hookups, picnic table, and a grill.

Rock Island: Spectacular scenery abounds at Rock Island thanks to the presence of the Great Falls of Caney Fork River. There are so many terrific vistas here that it’s an especially popular destination for photographers, travel writers, and even newlyweds. Cabins and extensive picnic facilities round out the usual complement of features for boating and fishing. Local fish include bass and bluegill, but don’t forget your fishing license.

Big Ridge State Park: Though it doesn’t accept reservations, and might be a little bit trickier to access for campers from out of state, I can’t help mentioning Big Ridge, since it’s the site of an annual bluegrass musical festival that you just shouldn’t miss if you’re going to be in the area. Big Ridge also provides 19 rustic cabins, 50 lakefront campsites that can accommodate tent camping or RVs, and group camping for up to 120.

In our follow-up posts, we’ll be rustling up the best RV campsites throughout the state. After that, expect an in-depth feature on the Great Smoky Mountains, chock full of info including a new “spotlight” on the top national park in the state.

View from the outskirts of Rocky Mountain National Park
Photo by: Laura Shreck (Stock Exchange)

Welcome to the Rockies! Today on AllCampgrounds, we’re headed to a new state to look at tent camping and RV camping in Colorado, especially around the Rocky Mountains.

Now, the Rockies are one of the most iconic ranges in the United States and stretch across five other states as well as parts of Canada, but because of the great diversity of Colorado’s natural landscape, the state plays host to one of the most lively and versatile camping scenes along the range.

This includes plenty of camp grounds to choose from through the year, with plenty of winter sports and beautiful summer hiking and climbing!

Tent Camping …

Rocky Mountain National Park is the clear place to start. With a variety of services including five drive-in camp grounds (three of these accept reservations), you can try everything from hiking to backcountry tent camping to fishing, biking, and mountaineering. The park is open 24 hours throughout the year, and offers opportunity to spot elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and even a few otters, among many other residents.

For Kampgrounds of America-style camping near the Rockies, try Estes Park KOA or Royal Gorge KOA. Though neither of these are open year-round, they do provide some more flexible options for families and groups, including tent camping, RV spaces, and even the signature “kabins” past visitors may be used to. As usual for KOA, you’ll never want for a clean bathroom, laundry, or something to do!

If you’re looking to base in the Estes Park area, also be aware that the local public camp grounds are expanding. They have two locations, with over total 200 sites for both tents and RVs. Reservations are taken at the public grounds, though there are a few guidelines, which can get a little bit complicated at certain times in the year. Also see Larimer County Camping Reservations for more options and specialized sites.

For RVs …

Cottonwood RV Campground offers RV camping “in the heart of the Colorado Rockies” and, like many of the other top options in the area, welcomes guests all year long. With full hookups and amenities servicing any size RV you can drive up in, Cottonwood is well-connected when it comes to the area’s local attractions and amenities. There are no tenting spaces available at Cottonwood.

Goldfield RV Campground has a convenient online reservation system and boasts fifty 30-50 amp sites and 12 pull-through sites, all recently renovated and convenient to clean restroom facilities. With easy access to Colorado Springs, the second most populous city in the state, you can easily “go wild” or soak in the local culture — or do both on the same day. Goldfield offers a 10% discount to active military servicemembers.

Spruce Lake RV is one of four “Essential Colorado RV Resorts” throughout the state. Right near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, it stands beside Big Thompson River and has over 100 sites. Rafting, fishing, and hot air balloon rides are some of the prime features. Standing out among RV camp grounds, it also offers a rental RV for those who want to sample the life but don’t have a rig of their own.

Mud Lake, Alaska
Photo by: Jeremy Sauskojus (Stock Exchange)

Hello, hello, hello! In today’s AllCampgrounds blog, we cross another state off our list by zooming out to the frozen tundra of Alaska!

Now, unless you’re an Eskimo, your goal will probably be to camp in what passes for summer in this icy region, but rest assured there’s phenomenal natural beauty for you to enjoy when you do.

There’s also some of the greatest trout fishing anywhere in the world.

The Camping Scene: Basic Info, Common Precautions

Alaska has over 100 park units and 2,500 camp grounds to choose from. Overnight camping fees of $10 to $20 a night are fairly standard in these parks, but so are outdoor toilets, well water, fire pits, and fire wood. Virtually all campsites operated by public entities are within a short distance of lakes or streams. Alaskan camp grounds are just as well-maintained as those in other states, but do have some unique issues to be aware of thanks to the harsh climate.

Naturally, the most serious issue facing campers in Alaska is the cold. Frostbite and hypothermia can set in quickly, and you need to be prepared. Brush up on your winter camping skills. Though the Alaskan summer isn’t as fierce in some places, it can still hold surprises. Dress in layers, but be aware that overdressing can slow your reaction time and cause you to sweat, actually having the opposite effect you intended. Stay hydrated and keep the body, including the head and hands, well covered.

Backcountry campers also have to be aware of bears and avalanches. Remember that in Alaska, the wild frontier is always a lot closer than it may seem. Only experienced frontierspeople should really “go primitive” around here!

Tent Camping, RV Camping and More in Alaska

Want to go camping quick? It’s not hard to find camp grounds even a short distance from major population centers like Anchorage and Fairbanks. This is only a quick overview: we’ll come back for more in a future post. Alaska covers a huge territory; it’s sparsely populated and full of chances for exploration.

Eklutna Lake in Chugach State Park: Offering 50 tent camping sites in the Eklutna Lake Valley, beneath the majestic peaks of the Chugach Mountains, this site offers up to 15 consecutive days of camping. In addition to all the great water sports you can enjoy, be prepared to spot moose on the lakefront. Mountain goats and other, less hospitable critters such as bears and wolves inhabit the backcountry.

Tok River Recreation Site: Sad to say, you can’t find RV space just anywhere in Alaska, but Tok River offers ten sites for motorhomes. Great riverboating, a public campfire area, telephone access, and a “camping bathroom” round out the facilities.

Kenai Fjords National Park: For camping right on the Gulf of Alaska, try Kenai Fjords. This national park offers fully-featured boat tours and kayaking. With the help of a ranger, you can enjoy a walking tour that brings you up close and personal with Exit Glacier. During the winter, the closed Exit Glacier Road provides a wonderful space for winter sports like skiing and sledding. Be aware of the black bears!

You just can’t get away with writing about Alaska without mentioning the fishing scene. During prime fishing season, thousands of hardcore enthusiasts descend on Alaska every year to do battle with record salmon, halibut, and trout. A lot of the top fishing takes place in the Kenai Peninsula region, above, but there are plenty of spots to choose from.

Klutina Salmon Charters and Campground: This place offers full-service charter fishing for king and red salmon on Klutina River along with camping for tents and RVs with full electrical hookups. Well water, picnic tables, fire pits, and dump stations are available, along with rental cabins.

Alaska is so enormous, it would take a month of posts to crack into it region-by-region. Hopefully, though, this is enough to spark the imagination of our pioneering AllCampgrounds readers. Next time, a change of weather and another terrific camping destination. Until then, my friends, time to make camp!

Polihale Beach, on the west coast of Kauai, Hawaii
Photo by: Gregory Runyan (Stock Exchange)

Aloha, everybody! On today’s AllCampgrounds blog we’ll be camping another of the 50 states as we look to get the low-down on all campsites in Hawaii. Tourists, surfers, and adventurers visit Hawaii’s pristine beaches every year to enjoy beautiful sand and crystal clear waves; but did you know there’s also a tent camping scene there? Amazing, but true; there are over a dozen sites around the Big Island, with several more dispersed across the rest of the land that makes up Hawaii. Now, I’m not going to lie to you; camping in Hawaii can be a tiny bit complicated. That’s why, as far as this post goes, I’m going to make sure you have all the info and resources you need to get started.

Parks & Camping on the Big Island is the first stop. It’ll tell you about the camping permit situation and other things you need to know when you’re selecting camp grounds on the Big Island. It’ll also link you to the state’s convenient permitting system, as you’ll need to get one before you can camp at most sites in the state. You can also get a quick run-down of the state parks and their features here.

Alternative Hawaii has a breakdown of regulations and descriptions of the state parks, national parks, county parks, and state forest reserves that Hawaii offers. You can find information on tenting or renting cabins from here, and it’s definitely informational enough to get you rolling, even though rules vary from island to island and site to site.

Now, if you’ve been reading along with these links so far, you might be thinking: “Yeesh! You REALLY have to know your stuff to go camping in Hawaii! Isn’t there any way to make this simpler?” Thankfully, there is. Things are a little bit more copasetic when you take a look at privately owned camp grounds. But, Hawaii being Hawaii, there are relatively few to choose from! Let’s look at a few …

Arnott’s Lodge offers a “BYOT” (bring your own tent!) lawn for tent camping. It’s only $10 per person, and includes your very own outdoor “camping bathroom” and hot showers, as well as access to other amenities. But what Arnott’s is really famous for is their expeditions, including close-up lava viewing, scuba diving trips, and star-gazing at the Mauna Kea Volcano 14,000 feet above sea level. These treks are designed for experienced hikers, and based on similar adventures in Australia and New Zealand.

Camp Olowalu is another option. It offers 36 sites for tent camping, with enclosed cool water showers, portable bathrooms, and a sink with drinkable water. For a more convenient travel experience, you can rent full kit from the camp, so you don’t have to lug all of your usual gear back and forth (though, if you’re like me, you’re too fond of the “old faithful” not to!). There are some reports of dolphin sightings around this camp …

Let’s say you’ve seen the above and you’re not quite impressed. If you want to brave camping on public land in Hawaii, you’ve got a lot of fantastic options that more than make up for a little bureaucracy. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has two drive-in sites and requires no permits (though there’s also no reservations!). Tenting is in vogue here, though cabins are also available at the Volcano House Hotel.

There’s also Haleakala National Park, occupying the slopes and subalpine forest around the dormant Haleakala Volcano on the island of Maui. Though camping permits are required, there is no additional fee, and this is a perfect spot for campers who want their experience wild and “primitive.” To get more details, visit this third-party guide to Haleakala.

Hawaii is one of the most beautiful states, and as campers know: if you haven’t camped it, you haven’t seen it! Stick to your guns and don’t let a little extra regulation scare you away: the thrill is worth it. Aloha!