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National Park Boondocking

Immerse yourself in the heart of America’s most iconic landscapes with National Park boondocking. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore the unparalleled beauty of our nation’s most cherished natural treasures. National Park boondocking allows you to camp off the beaten path, away from crowded campgrounds, and experience the wild side of these pristine parks.

Imagine waking up to the rustling leaves of ancient forests, the serene shores of crystal-clear lakes, or the majestic vistas of rugged mountain ranges. National Park boondocking grants you the privilege of camping within the boundaries of these incredible parks, from the breathtaking vistas of Yellowstone to the towering cliffs of Yosemite.

Our comprehensive guide to National Park boondocking offers essential tips, safety guidelines, and a selection of top sites to explore. These sites span a range of landscapes and ecosystems, each offering a unique adventure. Whether you’re captivated by the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, the dramatic red rocks of Arches, or the verdant forests of Great Smoky Mountains, there’s a boondocking experience to match your passion.

National Park boondocking invites you to engage in a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and wildlife observation to stargazing under pristine night skies. With minimal amenities, you’ll be fully immersed in the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

By choosing National Park boondocking, you become a steward of these extraordinary landscapes, treading lightly and leaving no trace. It’s a way to not only enjoy the splendor of our national parks but also contribute to their conservation and preservation for future generations.

Discover the magic of National Park boondocking today and embark on a journey of exploration, conservation, and unforgettable experiences. Join us in celebrating the natural wonders that make America’s National Parks a national treasure, all while forging your own path and creating lasting memories in the great outdoors.

20 Sequoia National Park Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 14, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Sequoia National Park in central California is around a 3.5-hour drive from Los Angeles. The park comprises over 631 square miles, and it is home to the largest trees worldwide, mountain peaks, and peaceful canyons. Sequoia National Park is famous for its forest of giant sequoia trees.

On the western section of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you will come across the last remaining sequoia trees. They can grow between 5000 and 8000 feet high and are among the longest-living trees in the world. A team of researchers recorded the oldest sequoia tree ever, which was around 3,200 years old.

President Benjamin Harrison established Sequoia National Park on 1890 September 25 as the second national park. The President had an aim to protect the forested mountainous terrain. It was the first national park formed to protect living organisms. The area was first home to Western Mono or “Monachee,” who settled in the Kaweah River drainage.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to California?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

The United States Army Cavalry troops were tasked to safeguard Sequoia National Park. From 1891 through 1913, Army Cavalrymen were sent to the Presidio of San Francisco, including Colonel Charles Young, the first African American military superintendent (1903). Walter Fry, the park’s first civilian superintendent, was hired in 1914. Three years later, in 1916, Sequoia national park Service was founded.

Sequoia National Park (4)

Free Camping and Boondocking Locations Near Sequoia National Park National Park

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1. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Kern Plateau – Bonita Meadow

Address
Forest Route 22S41
California
GPS: c
Elevation: 8425′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Sequoia National Forest’s Kern River Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

None

2. Sequoia National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Kern Plateau – Paloma Meadows

Address
Forest Route 22S20
California
GPS: 36.017353, -118.32719
Elevation: 8468′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Sequoia National Forest’s Kern River Ranger District. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

None

3. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Brush Creek Dispersed – Sequoia National Forest

Address
Kernville, California
GPS: 35.97142, -118.479027
Elevation: 4446′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. You may stay 14 Nights at Brush Creek Dispersed – Sequoia National Forest.

Best Review:

I positively love Brush Creek. When my grandkids were little, we went there 2 or 3 times per year. Alas, the kids all grew up and spread out, and started families of their own. Last Thanksgiving, my oldest grandson, Skip, and myself and others decided to have a small family reunion at Brush Creek this coming June. It certainly is roughing it a bit, as ther are no “facilities”, if you get my drift, so come prepared, porta potty, etc. Bring your own water, or a filtering device.

Best Review:

4. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Calkins Flat

Address
1941 Kern River Highway
Kernville, California
GPS: 35.918243, -118.490873
Elevation: 3504′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Sequoia National Forest’s Kern River Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

Best Review:

None

5. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Upper Peppermint Creek

Address
2750 W. Yowlumne Ave
Springville, California
GPS: 36.08152, -118.527134
Elevation: 7013′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. Very beautiful, but it is peppermint and roads are dirt. However it has a n umber of trees and with permit a campfire. A small creek runs thru middle and if you do not act badly(shooting while drinking) you will have a great time.

Best Review:

None

6. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Big Rock

Address
Camp Nelson, California
GPS: 36.02468, -118.561294
Elevation: 6381′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Large sandy area near The Trail of 100 Giants in Sequoia National Forest.

Best Review:

Fantastic campsite. Big enough for 4-5 tents (with a comfortable amount of space). Roughly 3-4 passenger cars. Could fit maybe 2 larger rigs, but the road down is a bit tricky. We had no issue in a passenger car, but there are some larger ruts, and sharp turns (that being said, it is a very short road down to the camping area).

Make sure you have your (free) permit if you are making a fire, or using a camping stove.

Lovely area, nice flat sandy/gravel area for camping, surrounded by a small hill on all sides, and pine trees. Very quiet despite its proximity to the road.

7. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Ant Canyon Dispersed Camping – Upper Kern River – Sequoia National Forest

Address
Kern River Rd / Mountain Hwy 99
Kernville, California
GPS: 35.88595, -118.45757
Elevation: 3274′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. You may stay 14 Nights at Ant Canyon Dispersed Camping – Upper Kern River – Sequoia National Forest.

Best Review:

The best spot is just north on Old Mountain Highway 99 of j3061’s coordinates – just south of Salmon Creek on the river side. Don’t blink or you will miss it. Once you pull off the road and down into the little lot, there is a ‘Day Use Only’ skinny sign, but if you make a sharp 180 degree left turn – you will pull into a sweet little incognito camping spot with a fire ring (but don’t use it…no fires) and flat tent spot in front of you with great shade trees. We did not tent camp, but this is great for hidden car camping as you are not visible from the main road.

8. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Blackrock Trailhead Golden Trout

Address
Kennedy Meadows, California
GPS: 36.117333, -118.267305
Elevation: 8504′

Management: Forest Service

There are 30 or more campsites at this location. You may stay 1 night at Blackrock Trailhead Golden Trout. Sequoia National Forest.

Amenities:

Horse Corral

Best Review:

The Blackrock Trailhead is a beautiful and easily accessible gateway into the Golden Trout Wilderness. This trailhead is used for camping, hiking, and staging for backpacking trips in the wilderness. Camping is limited to one night and intended as a staging area for those who are going to hike Golden Trout Wilderness. the Horse corrals are available for any stock being utilized in the area. No water provided.

9. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Kern Plateau – Osa Meadows

Address
Forest Route 20S25
Inyokern, California
GPS: 36.180981, -118.301175
Elevation: 8560′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Sequoia National Forest’s Kern River Ranger District. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

None

10. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Chico Flat Campground

Address
Mountain Road 99
Kernville, California
GPS: 35.8235, -118.462
Elevation: 2935′

Management: Forest Service

Chico Flat Campground is open year round. Free dispersed camping on Upper Kern River in the Sequoia National Forest. Camping and campfires (fire permit required) within 25 feet of the water’s edge is prohibited due to the Wild and Scenic Designation.

Best Review:

It is a wonderful little spot by the river. Pull in sites and regular parking sites. BRING SHADE! We stayed here this weekend and it was hot! Lots of trees and limited “tent camp areas” on the far side of the parking lot but due to this fact we were pretty secluded away from the crowd. Tie yourself off to one of the trees or a rock in the river and float the day away. Wonderful place, minus the lack of shade available at the pull in sites.

11. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Frog Meadow

Address
Forest Route 24S50
California Hot Springs, California
GPS: 35.874131, -118.575252
Elevation: 7582′

Management: Forest Service

Frog Meadow is open Jun-Oct. The maximum RV length at Frog Meadow is 16 feet. Frog Meadow Guard Station sits at a meadows edge at an elevation of 7,760 feet in the heart of the the Sequoia National Forest and Sequoia National Monument.

Best Review:

The cabin is two hours northeast of Bakersfield, California. It was constructed in the mid-1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps as a residence for Forest Service fire patrolmen stationed in the area.

The cabin sleeps ten. For larger groups, Frog Meadow Campground is a quarter-mile away and has ten sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Natural Features: The cabin is situated among firs and pines overlooking the meadow. Cattle or deer can often be seen grazing in the field in the early morning and evening hours.

12. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Kennedy Meadows Campground

Address
Inyokern, California
GPS: 36.053439, -118.129385
Elevation: 6168′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping at Kennedy Meadows. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

This is a Sequoia National Forest campground with plenty of space recreation opportunities. The forest service wanted to shut down the site but has kept it available due to a deal with the nearby Kennedy Meadows general store. It appears that the general store owners manage the campground now and allow it to remain a trash free and operable site. No payment or reservation is required but do stop in the general store and buy what you need from the guys who help keep it running.

13. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Panorama

Address
Forest Route 23S16
Posey, California
GPS: 35.808549, -118.571461
Elevation: 7349′

Management: Forest Service

This free campsite is located within the Sequoia National Forest’s Western Divide Ranger District. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

None

14. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – 18 Miles: – Long Valley Campground

Address
Long Valley Rd.
Inyokern, California
GPS: 35.844894, -118.15152
Elevation: 5363′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. You may stay 14 Nights at Long Valley Campground. Free camping in California. Long Valley Campground is located in a semi -wooded setting at 5,200 feet in elevation. Containing 13 sites, this area is the trailhead for a 3-mile trail down to the South Fork of the Kern River within the Dome Land Wilderness.

Best Review:

None

15. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Multiple Dispersed Sites

Address
Wofford Heights, California
GPS: 35.747751, -118.560942
Elevation: 5577′

Management: Forest Service

Multiple Dispersed sites on forest service land. The road in is Dirt. You may stay 14 Nights at Long Valley Campground.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

None

16. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Cedar Creek

Address
Evans Road
Wofford Heights, California
GPS: 35.74902, -118.582742
Elevation: 4892′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping – > No Reservations Cedar Creek is open all year.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

Cedar Creek is open all year. 4800-foot elevation. 11 campsites, with fishing on Cedar Creek. This high elevation campground is a more rustic and mountainous area. The campground offers picnic tables and restrooms. Unsuitable for trailers. Cedar Creek runs the entire length of the campground on both the north and south sides of Hwy 155.

From Glennville, go 10 miles east on CA 155, the campground will be on both the north and south sides of the highway. From Lake Isabella head north on Hwy 155 6 miles where the highway then years to the west. Take Hwy 155 west for 14 miles, and the campground is accessible from the highway. Chains required in the winter.

17. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Dispersed Campsite – Evans Road – Sequoia National Forest

Address
Glennville, California
GPS: 35.744483, -118.596544
Elevation: 4872′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and .1 miles from a paved road. Dispersed Campsite – Evans Road – Sequoia National Forest is open weather permitted. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Dispersed Campsite – Evans Road – Sequoia National Forest.

Best Review:

Pull off the road, slightly uphill, pull around the circle. A bit sketchy, but I made it in a front wheel drive hatchback. Nice flat area to put up a tent or two, car is parked behind a rock/mound and hidden from the road. Found by chance after finding cedar creek closed to all people, not sure it it’s legit, but we weren’t the first to have camped there. Great views, sounds of bugs and a rocky creek to help you sleep.

18. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Stine Cove

Address
6651 Sierra Way
Kernville, California
GPS: 35.679037, -118.409049
Elevation: 2602′

Management: Forest Service

Stine Cove is open all year. This is a free dispersed campsite. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

Nice area right on Lake Isabella. No shade and a little road noise. Vault toilet. We were the only ones camping. A few people came to fish and walk the beach. You will need a fire permit for cooking on charcoal, gas and for fire pit.

19. Sequoia National Park National Park Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Haiwee Canyon Road

Address
Olancha, California
GPS: 36.138515, -118.019756
Elevation: 4948′

Management: Unknown

Haiwee Canyon Rd. is open all year. This is a free dispersed campsite. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

Fantastic quiet spot. The road is not the worst I have been on but great car must be taken. Several spots of rocks to get over and around. I made it in a 24′ class C towing a small car. I did drive very slow. I did not go as far as the creek. There are 2 nice spots after the power lines and before the curve. Nice fire pits to mark the spots. Perfect setting at the foot of the mountains with the reservoir in front. Lots of hiking and biking. I would definitely come again. Good 4G/LTE signal. Would be 5 stars but for the road.

20. Sequoia National Park National Forest Free Campgrounds and Boondocking – Hanning Flat

Address
Patterson Lane
Weldon, California
GPS: 35.67798, -118.371065
Elevation: 2612′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Sequoia National Forest’s Kern River Ranger District. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

Best Review:

The Hanning flat was amazing! So many beautiful areas to hike too. Lots of areas for rock climbing. It was peaceful and Serene. Light usage (not a lot of people ) campfires are allowed(with permit.) I love that place and I will come back!!!

Top 15 Trails to Hike at the Sequoia National Park

Lace up your hiking boots, or slip on your sneakers – there are more than 1,000 miles of Sequoia & Kings Canyon hiking trails for visitors of every ability and inclination. From gentle ambles among giant sequoias to moderate day hikes and full-throttle ascents (including the highest point in the lower 48 states!),

1. General Sherman Tree Trail

1. General Sherman Tree Trail - Sequoia National Park

This paved trail will lead you to see the largest tree in the world, General Sherman. You’ll walk down a hill from the parking lot and return by walking back up. Read about the second-largest Sequoia, General Grant in Kings Canyon National Park, in my post about the 16 best trails in the national park system.

Note: This trail is located around 7,000 feet in elevation and can be steep. Allow yourself time to acclimate and rest while you hike this trail. For those with physical disabilities, there is an accessible parking area with a shorter, accessible trail leading to the General Sherman Tree.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 0.8 mi / 1.3 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 154 ft / 47 m

Families, wheelchairs, strollers

2. Big Trees Trail

2. Big Trees Trail Sequoia National Park

Beginning at the Giant Forest Museum, this trail takes you through one of the park’s Sequoia groves. Along this accessible path, you’ll find hundreds of Sequoia trees. Waysides along the way will also answer commonly asked questions, such as why do Sequoias thrive in the High Sierra?

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.4 mi / 2.3 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 50 ft / 15 m

Families, wheelchairs, strollers

3. Congress Trail

The Congress Trail is an extension of the trail to the General Sherman Tree. Along the trail, you’ll see more of the world’s largest trees and interpretive displays so you can learn more about the Sequoias. The trail includes the Senate and Congress groups along with the President Tree and the McKinley Tree. Are you noticing a theme?

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2 mi / 3.2 km loop
Elevation Gain: 230 ft / 70 m

Families, wheelchairs, strollers

4. Congress-Trail of the Sequoias-Tharp’s Log-Congress Loop

4 Congress-Trail of the Sequoias-Tharp’s Log-Congress Loop - Sequoia National FOrest

To expand even further, you can take the Sherman Tree Trail to the Congress Trail to the Trail of the Sequoias to form a long loop. No matter which loop you choose, prepare to be in awe of these massive wonders. The trail is partially paved (near the General Sherman Tree).

Note: AllTrails refers to this as the Giant Forest Loop, but this is NOT an official trail name. Make sure to note the true trail names to avoid getting lost while exploring the best hikes in Sequoia National Park.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7 mi / 11.3 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 1,282 ft / 391 m

Families, seeing the big trees without the crowds, trail runners

5. Moro Rock Trail

One of the most popular hikes in Sequoia National Park tasks you with climbing over 400 stairs to reach the top of Moro Rock for a spectacular view. The full panorama is truly breathtaking, both in beauty and necessity. The 400-stair climb is especially challenging at elevation for those who aren’t used to it, so take your time.

Note: Social distancing is not possible on the staircase. Please wear your mask on Moro Rock!
A paved staircase leads to the top of a granite rock
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 0.6 mi / 1 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 300 ft / 91 m

Rock climbing, views

6. Crystal Cave Trail

6. Crystal Cave Trail Sequoia National Park

This trail is partially paved. There’s a waterfall on your way to the cave entrance. You must purchase tickets for the cave before your hike ($18 per person). You cannot hike the trail without a cave ticket. Tickets can be purchased online.

Flowstone and stalactites in a cave
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 0.8 mi / 1.3 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 291 ft / 87 m

Families, walking
Cost: $18

7. Tokopah Falls (Tokopah Valley Trail)

This rocky trail leads you two miles through the forest to a waterfall. You’ll walk through a valley along the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, passing occasional meadows. The falls are best in spring as the snow melts from the higher peaks. In late summer, you may only see a trickle.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2 mi / 3.8 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 630 ft / 192 m

Families, walking, trail runners

8. Big Baldy Ridge Trail

This lovely trail takes you up to a ridge for fantastic views. Along the way, you’ll walk through fields of wildflowers (if the season is right).

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.5 mi / 8.9 km loop
Elevation Gain: 1,391 ft / 424 m

Wildflowers, walking, trail running, views

9. Ladybug Camp Trail

10. Marble Falls Trail

Another trail with marvelous diversity is the Ladybug Camp Trail. You’ll pass through Sequoia trees on your way to outstanding views.
Note: Due to the 2020 wildfires, use caution as you hike in this area.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.2 mi / 11.6 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 1,952 ft / 595 m

Families, backpacking, camping, mountain biking, trail running

10. Marble Falls Trail

One of the park’s longer moderate trails is Marble Falls. You’ll walk through a deep canyon in the Foothills District of the park toward a waterfall. Look out for poison oak along the trail (remember, leaves of three!) and prepare for a strenuous climb. I would not recommend this trail in the summer – it is challenging to find shade, and temperatures exceed 100 degrees all too often. If you insist on hiking to Marble Falls, go as early as you can.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.4 mi / 12 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 2,150 ft / 655 m

Walking, trail running, wildflowers

11. Watchtower Trail to Heather Lake Trail

In the Lodgepole area of the park, you’ll find a variety of trails to Sequoia groves, alpine lakes, and mountain vistas. The Watchtower Trail will lead to all of these, and you can continue beyond Heather Lake if you wish to see more. This trail is best in the summer; as soon as ice is present, the trail is closed for the winter season.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.1 mi / 13 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 2,112 ft / 647 m

Backpacking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, trail running, views

12. Mineral King Trail to Eagle Lake Trail

You’ll be gaining elevation on this hike, rounding out at about 10,000 feet at Eagle Lake. Make sure you know you are prepared for the altitude. To make this a longer trip, you can connect with the Mosquito Lakes Trail.

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 7.2 mi / 11.6 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 2,200 ft / 671 m

Hiking, trail running

13. Alta Peak Trail

If you’re looking for a tough hike with grand rewards, go for Alta Peak. It’s challenging, so make sure you are up for an adventure. Enjoy the views from over 11,000 feet!

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 7.5 mi / 12 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 4,500 ft / 1,372 m

Experienced hikers, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running

14. Monarch Lakes via Sawtooth Pass Trail Trail

This is a great day hike with wonderful views. If you’re interested in backpacking, you can continue on by connecting with the Sawtooth Pass Trail (next on the list), which leads to more beautiful lakes.

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 8.4 mi / 13.5 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 2,500 ft / 762 m

Backpacking, camping, hiking

15. Sawtooth Pass Trail

15. Sawtooth Pass Trail Trail - Sequoia National Park

This strenuous trail leads to beautiful views of the Sawtooth Valley. You can also continue on to see the stunning Columbine Lakes.

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 12.7 mi / 20.4 km round-trip
Elevation Gain: 4,313 ft / 1,314 m

Hiking, rock climbing, backpacking

Costs and Paid Camping For the Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park has seven campgrounds, each giving a unique experience amidst the world’s largest trees. These campgrounds, which are divided into three areas, provide something for every type of traveler. The cost of camping in one of these campgrounds is affordable and ranges between 12 and 22 dollars per night.

6 Places and Things to Do and See with Descriptions

1. General Sherman Tree

With a height of 275 feet, this tree is the largest in the United States and the entire world. The tree was incredible, and several other Sequoias in the Sequoia National Park area, as well as a fallen tree that an adult can walk under.

2. Buck Rock Lookout

Judging from the relatively small number of reviews, the Buck Rock Fire Lookout seems to be not well-known, but it rivals more famous Moro Rock as an essential viewpoint to visit in the Kings Canyon / Sequoia National Park area. While Buck Rock is only a few miles off the main Generals Highway route through the national parks, it does require a short (a little over 2 mile) approach along a dirt road. It’s not a difficult road at all, but it will be helpful to drive it in an SUV or other higher-clearance vehicle

3. Giant Forest Museum

It provides an overview of the region’s gigantic sequoias, meadows, and human history. The museum is housed in the National Register of Old Places-listed historic Giant Forest market structure. The Giant Forest offers various walks, ranging from small one-hour excursions to daylong excursions in Sequoia National Park.

4. Mount Whitney

This is the tallest peak in the contiguous United States, standing at 14,494 feet above sea level. Join the tens of thousands of people who climb this mountain every year on a long one-day or two-day journey. It is only a 22-mile round-trip hike, after all!

5. Tunnel Log

Visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon can drive through Sequoia Park’s fallen “Tunnel Log” located along the Crescent Meadow Road in Giant Forest.

The fallen Tunnel Log of Sequoia National Park came into being after an unnamed giant sequoia fell across the Crescent Meadow Road in late 1937 as a result of “natural causes.” The following summer, a tunnel was cut through the fallen log as a visitor attraction.

6. Tunnel Rock

This granite boulder created a tunnel over the Generals Highway until the road was rerouted. If you want to take a closer look, accessible parking and a paved path provide easy access to the old roadway beneath Tunnel Rock.

How to Get To the Sequoia National Park

Getting to Sequoia National Park is easy with the availability of several entry points. Fresno Yosemite International Airport is 53 miles from Sequoia National Park and Visalia Municipality Airport if you prefer flying into the nearest airport. International airports are a few hours’ drive from the park.

If you plan on driving to the park, be aware that mountain roads are narrow and curvy. RVs, trailers, and other vehicles longer than 22 feet (6.8 meters) are subject to length restrictions and recommendations.

Hanford and Fresno are the closest Amtrak stations to the Sequoia National Park. Amtrak operates bus connections from Hanford to Visalia Transit Center, connecting with the Sequoia Shuttle (summer only). Hanford is roughly 20 miles west of Visalia and one hour and 45 minutes from Highway 198’s Sequoia National Park Entrance.

Monarch Lakes via Sawtooth Pass Trail Trail

Things to Do at the Sequoia National Park

1. Walk through Chimney Tree

Even though fire murdered this tree tragically, it transformed it into Chimney Tree, and it is still a fun destination to visit because it is still standing, and you can walk inside! This is the location to go if you want to experience what it is like to be inside a Sequoia tree. Because it is so unique, it is quickly becoming most tourists’ favorite Sequoia National Park attractions.

2. Enjoy the seedlings at the Giant Forest Museum.

This is a fun place to visit in Sequoia National Park if you want to learn more about Sequoia’s various forest parts and observe the baby Sequoia seedlings growing near the windows. If you are curious about how Sequoias grow into the giants we know and love, here is a fascinating and fast stop to witness them in their infancy!

3. Hume lake

This lovely lake, located between Grant Grove and Kings Canyon, was designed to give water to a flume. It is now a swimming and paddle-boating place.

How Much Time Do You Need For Your Visit

Depending on how much trekking you choose to do, you may spend anywhere from two days to two weeks in Sequoia National Park trails. It is primarily a hiking area. Walking Congress Trail and seeing the General Sherman tree is a must. This may take a few hours.

Accommodations and Dining Near the Sequoia National Park

1. Wuksachi Lodge

It is located in Sequoia National Park’s Giant Forest section, the facility has 102 guest rooms, a cocktail lounge, a full-service restaurant, and a gift store.

2. John Muir Lodge

Grant Grove Village has 36 motel rooms and a restaurant in the Grant Grove region. A sequoia grove, market, post office, restaurant, tourist center, and a gift store are within a half-mile of the lodge.

3. Three rivers

The small town itself is not particularly remarkable, but it does have the advantage of being the gateway to Sequoia National Park, which explains why there are various inexpensive lodging options here. You can find other hotels along Generals Highway as you approach the park’s entrance.

9. Best Time to Visit the Sequoia National Park

The months of June to August are the greatest for visiting Sequoia national park because the weather is the most consistent. The park is open all year, but certain seasons present unique problems, such as during the winter season in December, and snow chains or tires are required to navigate park roads safely.

What to Pack For Your Visit To the Sequoia National Park

This list will guarantee that you have everything you need to enjoy a day in Sequoia National Park, whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned park expert. Please keep in mind that you will not leave anything on the Shuttle during your journey, so make sure you have everything you need with you.

A backpack to put your supplies
Water to keep you hydrated
Snacks to maintain your energy levels
Camera to capture the best memories
Binoculars to help you see the glory of the environment

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July 14, 2022 0 comments

37 Great Zion National Park Free Campsites

Travel Utah Boondocking Boondocking National Park Boondocking

37 Zion National Park Free Campsites in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 13, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Zion National Park free campsites surround the park. They are convenient to both the North and South entrance and all are within a 20 minute drive to one of the gates. These will save you a ton of camping fees in the park.

Zion National Park located near both Arches and Canyonland Parks in Springdale is the oldest national park in Utah. 69 different species of mammals stay in this park. Also, the park is home to 208 types of birds, 9 types of fish, 6 amphibians, and 29 reptiles.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Utah?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

The total area of the park is 145,598 acres with an elevation ranging from 3666 feet to 8726 feet. The lowest point is at Coal pit and the highest point is at Horse Ranch Mountain. The park has diverse terrain that includes canyons, rivers, mountains, monoliths, mesas, and natural arches.

Zion was first inhabited by Anasazi people about 1500 years ago. In 1858 when Nephi Johnson arrived in Zion, the Canyon was occupied by Paiute Indians. Isaac Behunin was the first European-American to settle in the Canyon. In 1918 Zion was named Zion National Monument and in 1919, it was renamed, Zion National Park. The mandatory transport of visitors to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive started in 2000.

37 Free Campsites for Zion National Park (7)

Zion National Park Free Campsites and Free Boondocking Spots

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1. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Lava Point Campground

Address
Kolob Terrace Road
Virgin, Utah
GPS: 37.384888, -113.038155
Elevation: 7913′

Management: National Park Service

Lava Point Campground is open June – October. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 19.

Best Review:

There are only 6 campsites at Lava Point (free, first come, first served). No dispersed camping is allowed. You are in Zion Ntl Park and subject to visits from Park Rangers to verify you are not violating fire restrictions or parking and tenting where you are not supposed too. The sites are only as clean as the last tenants. I spent a 1/2 hour cleaning up the site I picked before unpacking. Why do people take a dump in the woods 8 feet from their campsite when the toilet is 50 feet away? There are 3 bear-proof trash receptacles easily accessible from each site and a 2 hole pit toilet at the entrance. No water, however Kolob Reservoir is only 3.5 miles up the road where they have chlorinated spring water at a spigot in the parking area above the boat dock. No charge. While Zion proper was 108 deg, we were a comfortable 85-89 deg at Lava Point. All-in-all, camping there was a good experience. (Too bad Kolab Res. went reservation only, $50/night. And none of their campsites have been improved in any way!). Last: Cell reception was weak and spotty, don’t count on it.

2. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Smith Mesa

Address
Virgin, Utah
GPS: 37.290614, -113.111072
Elevation: 5135′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Dirt. Campsites are 2.5 miles in up a steep dirt road. There are several campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Several dispersed campsites along Smith Mesa Road 1/2 mile or more off Kolob Terrace Road (Zion National Park). Many scenic and secluded spots, both in the trees and out on the mesa. There are rock fire rings, but check on current fire regulations. No bathrooms, no tables, no water It’s more than 30 minutes from Zion visitor center, but is the closest quiet free camping since the Smithsonian Road near Grafton became impassable except for high clearance 4×4. The dispersed camping along lower Kolob Terrace is often filled with loud action sport types and homeless people living out of their vehicles.

3. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Kolob Reservoir West

Address
Unnamed Road
Virgin, Utah
GPS: 37.438682, -113.052448
Elevation: 8133′

Management: County Park

This is a free dispersed campsite. First come – first camped. No reservations are accepted. This is a high elevation location. Lots of great dispersed camping available around the reservoir. It does get busy so consider getting there early.

Best Review:

None

4. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Dalton Wash Road

Address
Dalton Wash Road
Virgin, Utah
GPS: 37.227348, -113.114741
Elevation: 4465′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Dalton Wash Road.

Best Review:

We saw at least three campsites along the Dalton Road Wash Rd. We were recommended from a local we met on the BLM land just to the southeast. It was a great spot, right on the road, easy access to Zion! Be sure that you aren’t camping on private land… see this campsite’s images for a map.

5. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Kolob Terrace Road Campsite

Address
1898 Kolob Terrace Rd
Virgin, Utah
GPS: 37.231354, -113.156843
Elevation: 3681′

Management – Private – Privately Owned Campground

The road in is Dirt and 0.1 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Nice (relatively) quiet and clean campsite on the west side of Zion. A good place to avoid the crowds and still have easy access to the park. There may have been Verizon signal at one time, but not anymore. I walked the length of the campground, and it was consistent -zero to one bar.

6. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – North Creek

Address
Virgin, Utah
GPS: 37.220478, -113.161531
Elevation: 3606′

Management – Private – Unknown

The road in is Dirt and 0.1 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. Easy 2WD access close to road and creek. Road seems like it would hold up okay for 2WD even in rain.

Best Review:

Really nice! Some sites were better than others. I felt pretty safe as a woman alone just by the amount of people around especially at night. Seemed to be most popular for people stopping overnight on their way to Zion. Not really any bugs just a lot of ants. Also had service for Tmobile. The river was nice to listen to even though it’s still contaminated with cyanobacteria but the rangers said to just not put your head under. I used the bathroom at the hotel 4 mins down the street with no problems.

7. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Kolab BLM Campground

Address
Springdale, Utah
GPS: 37.21129, -113.17267
Elevation: 3625′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. Free BLM campground just outside of Virgin, UT. Nearby creek is a great place to rinse off after a day at Zion. Also near true blooded adventurers.

Best Review:

Great spot to visit Zion National Park from – a 30min drive from the park entry. Easy to find off the main road past a recycling center, was a bit tricky to drive into with our 25ft Cruise America RV as there were some large ruts but we managed okay. Empty aside from one small tent, so was very peaceful and had lovely views of the mountains behind. Quiet and private, fairly level. Can see that it would get busy in summer. On another note – if you get into Zion park early there is a carpark especially for RV’s where you can park the whole day for free! Just be sure to get in early – we were in by 8am and were the first there but this was in November.

8. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Eagle Craig Trailhead

Address
Hurricane, Utah
GPS: 37.148314, -113.031547
Elevation: 4373′

Management: Bureau of Land Management/

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Came up here suspicious because the last post was from 2021. There is a sign at the gate and along the road that says “private drive” and “no camping” HOWEVER if you follow the coordinates provided you end up at BLM land! It even has a primitive restroom and full cell service! Not to mention the beautiful views!!! If you have a 4×4 vehicle w high-ish clearance, don’t miss this site! We were a little nervous coming up here but are so happy we did!

9. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Starlite Mesa

Address
390 N Pocketville Rd, Virgin, UT 84779
Springdale, Utah
GPS: 37.20704, -113.17992
Elevation: 3688′

Management: Privately Owned Campground

This is a FREE campsite.The road in is Dirt and 900 feet miles from a paved road. Starlite Mesa is open Year Round,. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

Quiet, views of Zion. On small mesa, dry camping. Gated, call Don 435 668 1000. Don is a great guy and the view from the site is great. The driveway leading up to the camping area is a bit rough and steep. There is real steep driveway marked by address 380 on a big rock and a less steep option near the powerlines. We have a 32’ TT (35.5’ total length to the tongue) and ended up ripping off a rear stabilizer jack using the less steep driveway. If you have good ground clearance you’ll be fine. Stayed here in a 35 foot-long Trailer (RV).

10. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – BLM Lands East of Zion NP South of Highway 9

Address
Mount Carmel Junction, Utah
GPS: 37.249128, -112.778939
Elevation: 6047′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Dirt and one miles from a paved road. BLM Lands East of Zion NP South of Highway 9 is open all year. You may stay 14 days at BLM Lands East of Zion NP South of Highway 9. There are several BLM roads south of Highway 9. Heading west from Mount Carmel Junction about six miles. Turn off on any of the BLM roads and drive back about one mile off of Highway 9. Dispersed camping overlooking Burnt Flat Gulch. Much nicer than the developed campgrounds in and around Zion NP.

Best Review:

This is probably one of my favorite BLM sites to date. Decided on this site after staying in Zion for two nights and then heading to Bryce canyon on a whim afterwards.
-The road in is super bumpy, but mostly smooths out once you’re in the site
-This campsite is HUGE! There’s an inital clearing with some intlets for you to go into, but if privacy is your thing, don’t stop there! keep following the path and you’ll be sure to find a large variety of spots and clearings to choose from.
-It was snowing, so I ended up camping in my car, a first for me in such weather! I was nervous but excited to try it. I found a site next to a tree for some shelter and strung up a tarp for some coverage getting in and out without getting covered with snow, and I put some rocks around my wheels so I could break away any potential ice that formed. Needless to say I survived the expedition, with some gorgeous morning after photos
-REALLY great takeoff point for the north side of Zion. It puts you only a few miles away from the entrance. As cool as camping in Zion proper was, it was PACKED. Though it might have been because of the snow, this site was hardly occupied, and regardless offers a lot of room between campsites so you have no chance of feeling like you’re on top of each other.
-ended up accidentally leaving a couple small wooden folding tables, so if you’re reading this and you found them, I hope they weren’t too badly warped by the water for you to get some use out of them!

11. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Toquerville Falls

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.296674, -113.247746
Elevation: 3727′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is 4×4 and 5 miles from a paved road. Free dispersed camping on BLM land, La Verkin Creek’s Toquerville Falls. Please do not camp at the falls themselves.There are no facilities. There is some private land in the area. Please be respectful of it. This camping area is close to Zion National Park.

Best Review:

Definitely 4 wheel drive and good clearance needed. We picked up a bunch of nails from our campsite which is disappointing. Pack it in and pack it out! The falls are beautiful. Only about 5 feet deep at most so wading more than swimming. There were red and small black ants in our campsite and the rock was hard on our tent stakes.

12. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Kane Dispersed Campsite

Address
Mt. Carmel Junction, Utah
GPS: 37.25455, -112.76953
Elevation: 6066′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Gravel and 3 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 at Kane Dispersed Campsite.

Best Review:

Loved this campsite! Stayed in late May and it was beautiful. It was very easy to find, not too far from gas stations and the main roads, with great views and was very level. Just a few minor downsides: little to no privacy, very small poorly constructed fire rings at some sites, small spots, not great for a large vehicles, but perfect for tents and smaller/vehicles (we were staying in our Toyota Rav4).

13. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Sheep Bridge Road

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.196185, -113.217652
Elevation: 3533′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite.Sheep Bridge Road is open year round. The maximum RV length at Sheep Bridge Road is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at Sheep Bridge Road.

Best Review:

Nice place to boondocking for a few days. There is a camping information spot right off the paved road. Many many sites all around, don’t just stick to the campfire ring sites. The dirt road in is treacherous and rocky/rutted. Be careful driving.

14. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Gooseberry Mesa Dispersed Camping

Address
Hurricane, Utah
GPS: 37.141517, -113.152786
Elevation: 5075′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite.Many campsites just off the main gravel road. Most have fire pits. Pit toilets at each of the Gooseberry Mesa trailheads. Lots of spacious sites with fire rings, clean and clear camping. Rough road getting in (careful driving in the Rav4) and within eye shot of many (10+) other campers. Nice if you just need a place to crash.

Best Review:

Great location. Six miles bumpy gravel road. When you turn off main gravel road there are deep ruts from rain and tires. You can pick a good line and be fine. I would want higher clearance but to each his own. There are several sites before you get to the Gooseberry trailhead and then more if you take the White Trail road. We had excellent Verizon service and okay AT&T. Able to get online with either. Great views and there is a vault toilet at trailhead.

15. Zion National Park Free Campsites – BLM Circle

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.206545, -113.240797
Elevation: 3622′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Dirt and 0.5 miles from a paved road. BLM Circle is open Year ’round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at BLM Circle.

Best Review:

We camped here April 5th, 2019. We were 2 37ft 5th wheel trailers. We wanted to camp at a spot further away from the Hwy, but there was a mountain bike event that weekend that closed many of those camp areas to use. As stated the road in is a bit rough, but go slow and you’ll make it just fine. We couldn’t really hear the road noise and we were there for 4 nights. ITs close to Zion, it’s close to services down in La Verkin and Hurricane. It’s pretty nice. And free!

16. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – North Side of Virgin River Dam

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.19904, -113.236582
Elevation: 3635′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. This site consists of dispersed camping along several criss-crossing dirt tracks. Passable with Class C or smaller, recommend smaller. Would not go in wet weather. Tracks are easily visible from route 9, many fire rings. Lots of neat rock formations and crags to explore. Camping spots are directly across gorge from Virgin River Dam trailhead.

Best Review:

Beautiful view at the edge of a small canyon. I’ve hiked around and I believe that this is one of the best and most scenic spots to camp. Stake your tent down, it can get pretty windy. Cold nights and frosty mornings this time of year, mid October, 2021. Warm during the day. Recommend a four-wheel-drive to get here. Large campers don’t usually go farther than the entrance area. Friendly neighbors and people stop by to take a look at the view. In this area dispersed camping means quite dispersed, my next-door neighbor is about 100 yards from this campsite. Very peaceful. The occasional off-road motorcycle and ultralight airplane come by. Gun range off in the distance, and a tourist helicopter sometimes flies around, but never close.
There is a vault outhouse, but on the other side of the canyon where there is more dispersed camping. I haven’t gone there yet but it looks like at least 20 minute drive to get around the canyon and into that area. Bring your own water etc…

17. Zion National Park Free Campsites – La Verkin Overlook Road

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.215153, -113.251006
Elevation: 3737′

Management: State Trust

This is a FREE campsite. There is one spot here that is State Trust land. It’s where the marker is. You can camp in this one spot only. Also, this spot is best suited for a night or two, it’s a focal point.

Best Review:

This is just above the L on the hill outside of La Verkin, UT. The road is passable to all vehicles when dry, but you must go slow and pick the best path. I made it up and down with a Smart Car and friends in a bus conversion pulling a trailer joined us. There is space for 2-3 campsites just to the west of the overlook, but there isn’t any privacy. Lots of people coming up day and night. There are roads that branch off the main road and we saw many people tent camping and a few RVs. The views are stunning, but we found it to be VERY windy in late April. Nearby La Verkin and Hurricane have anything you need. Zion National Park is 20 miles away.

18. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – BLM Recreation Area

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.18563, -113.22744
Elevation: 3638′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. Follow Sheephorn road south of Hwy 9, a few miles west of Virgin. Once you drive past the “day use only” signs, you’ll see dispersed camping plots with fire rings on both sides of the road.

Best Review:

Great spot with awesome views. Not necessarily “dispersed” camping since there are specified spaces that can be camped in (tent or RV). Tent camped in April. The first two nights were cold about 38 after that was nice about 45. The days were perfect in the 70s. There is a toilet a few minutes down the road, bring tp. Wal-Mart and 5 different towns with things to do or see are within about 20 minutes. Laundry mat nice. T mobile service and internet good, able to work throughout.

19. Zion National Park Free Campsites – La Verkin Overlook

Address
La Verkin, Utah
GPS: 37.200283, -113.254422
Elevation: 3747′

Management: State Trust Land

This is a FREE campsite. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

This place is easy to get to it’s right off the road and only 10 miles from Zion National Park. It’s right off the main road but the road is kind of rough and it’s all dispersed camping. Take your time getting in you might want to scout out a spot before you bring in a trailer or larger vehicle. Lots of trash around broken glass bullet casings. But it’s right on the river and great for Wheeling and off roading.

20. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Little Creek Station – Chevron Convenience store

Address
Hurricane, Utah
GPS: 37.104416, -113.125178
Elevation: 4770′

Management: Private

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Paved. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 1 night? at Little Creek Station – Chevron Convenience store.

Amenities:

Dump Station
Picnic Tables
Trash Cans

Best Review:

Gas station on Hwy 389 W going into Hurricane, UT. Not far past Smithsonian Butte Scenic Turn off. Big open lot next to store with pay RV dump. Deli type food available. Just ask permission and be courteous.

21. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Sheep Bridge South

Address
GPS: 37.170866, -113.249931

Management: National Park Service

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Gravel and 1 from UT59; 4 from UT9 miles from a paved road. Sheep Bridge South is open All year. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 14 days at Sheep Bridge South.

Best Review:

Nice flat official sites and pullovers all over. The dirt/gravel road in (about 1.4 miles) is rough and washboard. From UT9 to the 59 is through quaint Hurricane Utah. On 59 though is a steep elevation climb (approx 1500-2500+) The views are incredible. This campsite has lots of roads to camp off of. I stayed in the large field about a mile before the coordinates. There are no trees or toilets or trash cans, and the road to get in is a washboard dirt road. I drove in with a minivan so any car should be able to make it. Quite a pretty spot.

22. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Kanarraville Rest Area (northbound)

Address
Cedar City, Utah
GPS: 37.513504, -113.211558

Management: Rest Area

The road in is Paved. Kanarraville rest area (northbound) is open Year round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Kanarraville rest area (northbound).

Amenities:

Drinking Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms
Trash Cans

Best Review:

Staying at rest area tonight. I would say interstate traffic is very noisy. Stayed here in a 19 foot-long Truck Camper (RV).

23. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Kanarraville Rest Area (southbound)

Address
Cedar City, Utah
GPS: 37.516585, -113.21262

Management: Rest Area

The road in is Paved. Kanarraville rest area (southbound) is open year round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Kanarraville rest area (southbound).

Amenities:

Drinking Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms
Trash Cans

Best Review:

Nice clean rest area with three RV spaces that aren’t among the truck spaces. Quiet night with no semi trucks idling right next to us.

24. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Deer Hollow Forest Roads

Address
Utah
GPS: 37.548452, -112.809755
Elevation: 9721′

Management: Forest Service

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. Deer Hollow Forest Roads is open All. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Deer Hollow Forest Roads.

Best Review:

Plenty of spots anywhere along FR 055. A number of smaller forest roads branch off: All have little spots for tents or small trailers. Some spotty cell service in pockets. Wonderful spot with lots of space, very open. You have to drive a bit longer on the dirt road to get to the camping spots. Can get really cold at night in October. Had the space all for us.

25. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Twin Hollows Canyon

Address
Utah
GPS: 37.2071, -112.6893
Elevation: 5135′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. This is right across 89 from the campsite titled “Old Hwy 89”. It is very easy access, good road and beside a creek. There are several areas you can camp. It had pretty views from almost every angle. We really liked it here. It had decent ATT signal.

Best Review:

I think it’s time for an update on the review. This site is extremely popular it’s on multipleapps and websites. It’s a mere 12 miles from the East entrance to Zion national Park it’s approximately 60 miles south of the entrance to Bryce canyon. It’s also 19 minutes to drive time from kanab Utah which is where the BLM land office is in case you want to go to the wave. There is a mile of the east fork of the virgin river to camp near. Do not pass the fence line do not camp pass the gate do not camp around the dam. That is all privately leased land and is not for dispersed camping. The natural tunnel is a must see and it’s well worth the 5-minute walk on the other side of the tunnel to go to the dry waterfall trust me.

The best time to go through the tunnel is sunset. The best time to go for pictures is midday. The length is unlimited watch out for the Sandy areas walking before you drive. Enjoy I was there for the full 14 days. You can see the tower at Mount Carmel junction,. I camped on the other side of the mountain and for some reason Stone does not allow a cell signal to get through.

26. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Old-89

Address
Orderville, Utah
GPS: 37.206195, -112.674979
Elevation: 5489′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. Gravel pit with 3 or 4 spots. Really nice views to the east. The wash nearby is cool to walk through when it’s dry.

Best Review:

My wife and I stayed here for 14 days in our 30′ TT with our 2 dogs and 2 cats. We are avid hikers and loved this spot for its proximity to so many world class hikes as well as national and state parks. We stayed in February of 2021 and had some nice warm days and some snowy windy days. The sunset on the mountains every night was absolutely beautiful and I loved walking the dogs in the forest around us. Watch our attached video to get a better idea of the site and see it its for you. I will definitely stay here again and we only had 1 neighbor for most of it but I still felt relatively secluded. There is a bit of road noise from trucks engine braking down the hill nearby. 15 minutes to Kanab / 15 minutes to Zion east gate

27. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Oak Grove Road

Address
Forest Road 4042
Leeds, Utah
GPS: 37.272924, -113.38857
Elevation: 4380′

Management: Forest Service

This is a FREE campsite. Free Dispersed camping in the Dixie National Forest’s Pine Valley Ranger District. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

Best Review:

Great spot to spend a quick night. Located 10 miles from St George and about 30 miles from Zion. Easy access for a low clearance vehicle, the road was well maintained. We drove in on a Saturday night in December and found multiple open spots. The spot we stayed in had a rock campfire ring and ample space for a trailer or multiple cars/tents. We had a few cars drive by throughout the night/morning but not too much traffic. The campsites are also nicely dispersed from one another giving you privacy.

28. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Leeds Canyon

Address
Leeds, Utah
GPS: 37.283273, -113.395514
Elevation: 4663′

Management: Forest Service

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 16 consecutive days at Leeds Canyon. Right outside of historical Silver Reef Ghost Town in Dixie Nat’l Forest on FR032.

Best Review:

As of August 1st, 2020, Leeds Canyon is only half open. There are some campsites open, but they’re in the sun and stay almost as hot as the rest of the desert. The disperesed campsites deep in the dwarf oak forest past the Silver Reef Kiln trail that are cooler and shaded during the summer are closed, as is the road that leads to them. Awesome designated campsites within 5 miles from Silver Reef.

29. Zion National Park Free Campsites – FR029

Address
New Harmony, Utah
GPS: 37.515638, -113.325156

Management: Forest Service

This is a FREE campsite. 20 minutes NW of Kolob Canyon Visitor’s Center. Secluded and quiet spot. Gravel road with dispersed sites. Fire ring. No water or restrooms. Sign reads the road is impassable with rain. About 15-20 minutes up a dirt road from the paved roads of New Harmony. We drove VW Jetta with no problem, but be careful if rain is in the forecast. We picked a site at the top of the climb, but the road kept going over the ridge where I saw two other vehicles come from.

Best Review:

About 15-20 minutes up a dirt road from the paved roads of New Harmony. We drove VW Jetta with no problem, but be careful if rain is in the forecast. We picked a site at the top of the climb, but the road kept going over the ridge where I saw two other vehicles come from.

30. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Cedar City Walmart

Address
Cedar City, Utah
GPS: 37.654742, -113.086382
Elevation: 5945′

Management: Retail Store

The road in is Paved. Cedar City Walmart is open 24X7. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 1 Night at Cedar City Walmart.

Amenities

Restrooms
Trash Cans

Best Review:

3rd time staying here. No worries. If we all remain respectful it should remain an option for us all. 2022

31. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Boondocking on K2675 Sandhills

Address
K2675
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.175535, -112.610085
Elevation: 5988′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is 4×4. Pull outs along a sand road. 4×4 highly recommended. Free camping location to explore the area. Not a campground. No facilities. No reservations. The road that runs parallel to 89 is partly paved and provides other opportunties for free camping.

Best Review:

Nice camp spot, basically any of the side roads will have some spots, but be ware that a lot of those side roads are extremely sandy and we had trouble getting our Tacoma through them. If you check them before trying to drive through them there are definitely less sandy roads.

32. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Strawberry Ridge Rd

Address
Forest Road 239
Duck Creek Village, Utah
GPS: 37.493016, -112.625309
Elevation: 8176′

Management: Forest Service

This is a FREE campsite. We didn’t find this exact location but found a wonderful spot before it on the right. It was off the same dirt road, and zero traffic on the road all night. It had a good amount of room, tons of firewood and a huge fire pit. We really enjoyed our stay.

Best Review:

Great place with plenty of room and many sites for RV’s tents whatever. The road goes in and out of Dixie nat’l forest with a neighborhood in the middle. The road goes for miles! Not too bad, but very dusty. The atv’s got to be so bad on the weekend you couldn’t possibly be outside or have your windows open. I even made signs to slow down for dust~didn’t help! Lots of yahoos riding way too fast for the road. Ugh! Saw herds of sheep, deer, elk and a few chipmunks and birds. LOTS of pine needles to gather to make baskets!

33. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Coal Creek

Address
Cedar City, Utah
GPS: 37.668204, -113.011352
Elevation: 6227′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Dirt and 0 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 16 days at Coal Creek.

Best Review:

Terrific camping spot close to Kolob Canyons. Road was a little rough but I made it with my Honda Odyssey. There are about 7 “spots” but honestly you could just park wherever in the campsite area. Some people have made fire ‘rings’ with the stones there so bring your wood if you wanted to. No bathrooms or service. Please make sure to pick up your trash.

34. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Dry Lake Bed BLM

Address
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.066064, -112.705374
Elevation: 6161′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. The road in is Paved. The maximum RV length at Dry Lake Bed BLM is unlimited. You may stay 14 Days at Dry Lake Bed BLM.

Best Review:

Very large open area used for staging OHVs. Easy in/out and lots of room to maneuver a large rig. Coral Pink Sand Dunes SP is just down the road for water and dump for $8 fee. No water or restrooms available at the site. Great area to take OHV or Jeeps. It can get windy with blowing sand.

35. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Uinta Flat Dispersed Camp

Address
Forest Road 064
Duck Creek Village, Utah
GPS: 37.510235, -112.618454
Elevation: 8094′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

This is a FREE campsite. You may stay 14 days at Uinta Flat Dispersed Camp. Free camping.

Best Review:

This has always been my favorite place in Utah. So easy to access at mile marker 33 off HWY. 14. Many places to park all size rigs and gorgeous views or tuck yourself into the trees. We have a 37ft. 5th wheel no problem parking. Dirt road in is maintained nicely. 16 day stay. Close to Bryce NP and many hiking spots. Gas station and groceries 3 miles away. A lot of off roasters on ATVs taking trails but they are no bother. Bring your toys here if you have them!

36. Zion National Park Boondocking Spots – Lava Flat Dispersed Camping Area

Address
Mammoth Road
Duck Creek Village, Utah
GPS: 37.542, -112.644997
Elevation: 8340′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

This is a FREE campsite.The road in is Dirt and 2 miles from a paved road. You may stay 14 days at Lava Flat Dispersed Camping Area.

Best Review:

Not sure why this dispersed camping area only got 3 stars by some. I got in here absolutely FINE with a 31 ft Class C! The sites are massive, far away from next campers…but can see their rigs thru the trees. Scenery is lovely….the lava fields, pines and aspens….gorgeous! My site is flat and level with a big stone fire ring. Drive in was a breeze!

37. Zion National Park Free Campsites – Coral Pink Sand Dunes – Sand Spring

Address
Sand Spring Road
Kanab, Utah
GPS: 37.077818, -112.661795
Elevation: 6178′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This is a FREE campsite. Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management Kanab District. First come – first served. No reservations accepted.

Best Review:

Our family drive with our 24 ft trailer to this spot and had to turn around early bc the road was so difficult to drive. Even with our 4wd, our trailer was a difficult haul. Fyi, there is NO easy turnaround so large travel trailers do not make sense to take here.

Zion National Paid Campsite Alternatives

Zion National Park has some of the best places for camping compared to the neighboring parks like the Capitol Reef. Below are some of the best campgrounds and RV trailer parks around Zion National Park:

1. Zion Paid Campsite – Watchman Campground

Watchman Campground is also within the park but the surrounding trees are fewer compared to South Campground hence there is less shade from the sun but better views of the surrounding sights. The campground has 95 campsites that offer electrical hookups and 69 tent-only sites. It also has 6 group sites that can accommodate 9 to 40 people. Watchman Campground is open throughout the year.

2. Zion Paid Campsite – South Campground

South Campground is amidst large and leafy trees that provide shade on hot days and is one of the best in Zion National Park. The campground has 117 campsites that are large enough and well-spaced from each other. This campground is within the park and hence it saves you time. Each campsite is allowed a maximum of 6 people, 2 tents and 1 RV. The campground provides potable water, a dump station, and flush toilets. The campground is open between March 1st and late November.

3. Zion Paid Campsite – Zion River Campground & RV Resort

Zion River Resort features shady sites, fire pits, parking pads, manicured grounds, and lawns. The campground is located in Virgin town between Hurricane and Springdale and you only drive for about 20 minutes to Zion National Park. Some of the amenities provided include Wi-Fi, restrooms, showers, tent sites, full hookups, and pet areas.

4. Zion Paid Campsite – Zion Canyon Campground & RV Resort

Zion Canyon Campground is located in Springdale outside the south gate of Zion National Park. This campground is within a walking distance of the park’s visitor center. The campground offers an area for both RVs and tents and is amidst large deciduous trees which provide a mix of sun and shade.

5. Zion Paid Campsite – Red Ledge RV Park

This campground is located in Karraville and has 22 quality campsites. The campground has amenities such as a dump station, a playground, free Wi-Fi, and hot showers. Some of the exciting opportunities found near this campground include hiking, golfing, fishing, watersports, and biking. Despite all these, the rates are affordable.

6. Zion Paid Campsite – Lava Point Campground

Lava Point Campground is located on Kolob Plateau and it is the most remote campground around Zion National Park. It is also the smallest campground and has 6 primitive sites amidst pine and aspen trees. The campsites are given on a first-come, first-served basis and picnic tables are provided.

7. Zion Paid Campsite – Hi-Road Campground

Hi-Road Campground is located outside the East Gate of Zion National Park but it is not the first choice for many campers. Hi-Road Campground offers tent sites, pull-through sites, and full hookups. However, the prices here are very high despite the facilities being very basic.

8. Zion Paid Campsite – Cedar Breaks RV Park

Cedar Breaks RV Park is located in Cedar City, a town with rich culture and many arts and theatre. The sites in this campground are full hookups. They are also pet-friendly and they offer free Wi-Fi.

9. Zion Paid Campsite – Coral Pink Sand Dunes Park

The campground located in Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a 40-minute drive from Zion National Park. The campsites in this campground are located amidst juniper and pinon pines hence providing shade. The amenities offered in each site include a picnic table, a grill, and pull-through parking. The group sites in this campground can hold 25 to 50 people.

10. Zion Paid Campsite – Temple View RV Resort

This campground is located in St George and is within a 45-minute drive distance from Zion National Park. The campground is surrounded by stunning views and has plenty of amenities such as Wi-Fi access, a swimming pool, and a Jacuzzi. The campground is also close to many shops, restaurants, and grocery stores.

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Top Trails to Hike at the Zion National Park

1. Angels Landing Trail

1. Angels Landing Trail - Zion National Park Free Campsites

Angels Landing Trail is heavily trafficked and 4.4 mi long with an elevation gain of 1,604 ft and is rated as difficult. It is located near Springdale and it features a river. The trail is best used between February and October mainly for hiking and nature trips. It takes about 3 hours round-trip to hike on this trail.

Length: 4.4 mi
Elevation gain: 1,604 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Partially paved, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, No shade, Fee, No dogs

2. The Narrows Riverside Walk

2. The Narrows Riverside Walk - Zion National Park Free Campsite

The Narrows Riverside Walk is 1.9 mi with an elevation gain of 193 ft and it is rated as easy. This means that people of all ages and skill levels can do this walk. It features a waterfall and is best used between March and October mainly for running, nature trips, and hiking.

Length: 1.9 mi
Elevation gain: 193 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Running, Beach, Forest, Partially paved, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

3. Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

3. Zion Canyon Overlook Trail - Zion National Park Free Campsite

In Zion Canyon Overlook Trail you cover a distance of 1.0 mi round-trip and gain an elevation of 187 fthence this trail is rated as moderate. The trail features beautiful wildflowers and is accessible throughout the year. The trail is mainly used for walking and hiking.

Length: 1.0 mi
Elevation gain: 187 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Cave, Views, Rocky, No shade, Fee, No dogs

4. The Watchman Trail

4. The Watchman Trail - Zion National Park Boondocking Spots

The Watchman Trail is a heavily trafficked trail with a distance coverage of 3.1 mi and elevation gain of 636 ft hence difficulty level is rated as moderate. The watchman trail is accessible throughout the year and you can do a couple of activities here. Such activities are hiking, running and views.

Length: 3.1 mi
Elevation gain: 636 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Camping, Hiking, Walking, Running, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No shade, Fee, No dogs

5. Emeralds Pool Trail

5. Emeralds Pool Trail - Zion National Park Boondocking Spots

In Emeralds Pool Trail you cover a total distance of 3.0 mi and gain an elevation of 620 ft hence the trail is rated as moderate. The trail features a waterfall and is best used between May and November primarily for hiking.

Length: 3.0 mi
Elevation gain: 620 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Partially paved, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

6. Zion Narrows Bottom-Up to Big Springs

6. Zion Narrows Bottom-Up to Big Springs - Zion National Park Boondocking Spots

This is an out and back trail that is 8.9 mi with an elevation gain of 695 ft hence it is rated as difficult. The trail features a waterfall and is best used between April and October primarily for hiking and birdwatching. It takes around 8 hours to cover the whole trail.

Length: 8.9 mi
Elevation gain: 695 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Partially paved, River, Views, Waterfall, Rocky, Scramble, Off trail, Fee, No dogs

7. Scout Lookout Trail

7. Scout Lookout Trail zion national park

Scout Lookout Trail is an out and back trail that has a total distance of 3.6 mi with an elevation gain of 1,115 ft and is rated as difficult. Scout Lookout Trail features a river and is best used between May and October primarily for hiking.

Length: 3.6 mi
Elevation gain: 1,115 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Paved, River, Views, Wildlife, No shade, Fee, No dogs

8. The Subway Trail

8. The Subway Trail zion national park

The Subway Trail is an out-and-back type that is 9.1 mi with an elevation gain of 1,305 ft. It is rated as difficult. The Subway Trail features a waterfall and is best used between June and October mainly for hiking and nature trips.

Length: 9.1 mi
Elevation gain: 1,305 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, River, Views, Waterfall, Rocky, Scramble, Off trail, Fee, No dogs

9. Observation Point Through East Mesa Trail

This is an out-and-back type of trail that is 7.0 mi long with an elevation gain of 702 ft. It is located close to Mount Carmel Junction and is rated as moderate. The trail features beautiful wildflowers and is best used between April and October mainly for hiking and nature trips.

Length: 7.0 mi
Elevation gain: 702 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

10. Elephant Temple vis Zion Riverside Walk

Zion Riverside Walk is an out-and-back type of trail that is 5.4 mi kilometers long with an elevation gain of 465 ft. It is rated as moderate. Zion Riverside Walk features a river and is best used between March and October mainly for hiking.

Length: 5.4 mi
Elevation gain: 465 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, River, Views, Wildlife

How to Get To the Zion National Park

The closest airports to Zion National Park are the McCarran International Airport and the Salt Lake City International Airport located in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City respectively. This means that if you are traveling by air, you have to land at one of these airports then take a drive to Zion National Park. From Las Vegas to the park the distance is 170 miles only and you take about 2.5 hours while from Salt Lake City the distance is 311 miles and you take 4 hours. You can reach the park either by driving or by shuttle but during the busy season between April and November you can access the main canyon only by shuttle.

Zion National Park Gates

There are two main gates to the Park. One on the North and on on the South and each is equipped with a visitors center for maps, directions and information. Research the spots you want to visit for and which gate to use for each. We give you 37 free campsites and free boondocking spots. Each gives you the comforts and activities listed for both as well as the GPS and address to make the easy to locate.

North Gate at Kolbs Canyons

The Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park is located at Exit 40 on Interstate 15, 40 miles north of Zion Canyon and 17 miles south of Cedar City. A five-mile scenic drive along the Kolob Canyons Road allows visitors to view the crimson canyons and gain access to various trails and scenic viewpoints.

Here in the northwest corner of the park, narrow parallel box canyons are cut into the western edge of the Colorado Plateau, forming majestic peaks and 2,000 foot cliff walls. Whether you come to view the panoramic landscape from our scenic drive, hike into one of our majestic canyons, or begin a multi-day adventure into the Zion Wilderness, Kolob Canyons has something special for everyone to experience.

South Gate at Springdale

With its arid terrain and extraordinary red rock formations, the Zion National Park South Entrance makes up the southern side of its namesake park. As well as spectacular vistas, the area contains several museums and a quaint town. Enter the Zion Canyon Visitor Center near the south entrance to learn about the natural history of the park. The visitor center opens daily from early morning until late afternoon. Learn more about the area’s rich past in the Zion Human History Museum, whose exhibits explore indigenous culture, pioneer settlement and the development of the park.

Other intriguing culture hubs in Springdale, just outside the entrance, include the Sorella Gallery, with impressive landscape images, and the DeZion Gallery, which showcases works by regional artists. Stop at the Canyon Community Center for a sense of the local culture

Why Use Zion National Park Free Campsites On Your Visit

Zion National Park is hauntingly beautiful with stunning views and spectacular formations and landscape. The features range from deep twisting canyons to mesas, mountains, cliffs, waterfalls, and also wildlife. This makes Zion National Park a place to visit at least once in your lifetime. As you explore Zion Canyon Scenic Drive you find breathtaking sceneries including skyscraping sandstone formations such as the Great White Throne. Also, while in Zion National Park, you can enjoy other activities such as canyoneering and rock climbing on some of the world’s tallest walls like Angel’s landing. You can also go to Zion National Park for birdwatching, beautiful waterfalls like the weeping rocks forming from snow.

Costs and Camping for Zion National Park

The cost of entering and camping in Zion National Park is quite fair and hence most visitors can afford it. For the weekly passes, the entrance fee charged per vehicle is $35 and per motorcycle, the fee is $30. The 7-day pass if you are entering the park on foot, bike, or on a horse, you are charged $20. An annual pass, on the other hand, will cost you $70. The fee charged for camping in Zion National Park ranges between $16 and $20.

Things to Do at the Zion National Park

Zion National Park is all about outdoor adventures and sightseeing. There are things that you should simply never miss to do or see once you make your way into Zion National Park regardless of the time you are planning to stay in the park. Below is the list of the things that you should do while in this park:

1. Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Driving through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway should be on your to-do list once you tour Zion National Park. The highway runs from the South Entrance of the park to the East and it is very scenic with dramatic views from both sides. The highway leads to a narrow tunnel and then to the Canyon Overlook parking area.

2. Explore the Views on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

Zion Canyon is the most spectacular section in Zion National Park. You can access the Canyon through the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive that is surrounded by towering cliff walls. Most of the attractions in Zion National Park are found along this drive. Such attractions include Angels Landing and the Narrows. You are taken through this route by the park’s shuttle bus but you can also use your car during the winter season since the shuttle bus does not operate in this season.

3. Hiking on the park’s main trails

Zion National Park has many outstanding trails that make you have much fun in the park as you hike on them. The Narrows and Angels Landing are the park’s most famous hikes. Angels Landing leads you to a spectacular Zion Canyon viewpoint while The Narrows runs along a river. The other main walks in the park include Weeping Rock Trail, Lower Emerald Pools Trail, and the Riverside Walk. The hikes in the park vary in terms of distance and the natural features of each of them.

4. A stopover at the Weeping Rock

Weeping Rock is one great sight that you find as you do Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The Weeping Rock usually has drips of water, a stream, or a waterfall depending on the season. To reach the rock you have to do a round-trip walk of a half-mile.

5. Riverside Walk

The Riverside Walk is along the Virgin River and you can view huge waterfalls on the other side of the river. As you do the Riverside walk you will find birds and other wildlife hence it is a must-do for those who like birdwatching.

6. Exploring Checkerboard Mesa

When you visit Zion National Park, it is good to pull out and appreciate the unique scenery of Checkerboard Mesa. This mesa is white-colored and has a checkerboard pattern and the area is surrounded by beautiful large pine trees.

7. Pull out at Human History Museum

A pull-out at the Human History Museum is essential since you learn a lot from the museum. At this point, you will learn about the creation of the park, American Indian Culture, and the general cultural history of Zion National Park. You learn all these through videos and large displays that are easy to read. There are also rangers here who can answer your questions.

8. Canyoneering and Rock Climbing

When you tour Zion National Park you can either participate in canyoneering or rock climbing. These two activities are common in Zion National Park due to the presence of canyons and unique landscape. Canyoneering starts with enrolling for courses by outfitters in Springdale who also give you the necessary equipment.

9. Canyon Trail Rides

This involves horseback riding tours along the Virgin River which takes place between March and October. It is a nice family activity.

How Much Time Do You Need For Your Visit

The time that you spend at Zion National Park is based on the kind of activities you are planning to undertake. The number of hikes that you have at Zion National Park, the length, and the difficulty level of such hikes are some of the biggest factors to consider. Essentially you will need at least 2 or 3 days at Zion National park. This time is adequate to allow you to take some of the popular hikes such as the Narrows and Angels Landing. You can also do the easier hikes like the Canyon Overlook and the Riverside Walk on top of the popular trails within the same three days.

Accommodations and Dining Near the Zion National Park

In case the campgrounds are full or you do not want to camp, there are many accommodation options in and around Zion National Park. Within the park, there is Zion National Park Lodge where you are required to do reservations in advance because of its excellent location.

The other accommodation options are in Springdale and they include Holiday Inn Express, Flanigan’s Inn, Red Rock Inn Cottages, and Cable Mountain lodge. If you need to eat and you can’t cook for one reason or another, there are also places where you can take your meals. These eateries include Oscar’s Café where you are served with nachos and Mexican food, Zion Pizza & Noodle Café, Café Soleil, and King’s Landing Bistro.

Best Time to Visit the Zion National Park

You can visit Zion National Park any time of the year depending on the crowds and the type of activities you are going to do. This is because Zion National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, April to October is the most popular time when most people visit Zion National Park. For a serious hiker, the best time to visit the park is during fall. If you want to avoid crowds you can visit Zion National Park during winter but you will have to use your car to drive through the park. During the summer season, the temperatures are high and the park is crowded.

What to Pack For Your Visit To Zion National Park

It is extremely important to park the right things when going to Zion National Park. This is because if you carry everything that you need in every part of the park, your experience there is greatly enhanced. Below is the list of things that you should bring:

-Sunscreen and sun hat to protect yourself from sunburn
-Enough drinking water, at least one or two gallons
-Backpack that contains everything you need if you are going to camp
-Binoculars for looking at distant sceneries
-Hiking poles or sticks for assisting you when hiking
-Camera or smartphone for taking pictures of the stunning sceneries within the park
-Proper clothing and layers in case the weather fluctuates

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July 13, 2022 0 comments

3. Congress Trail - Sequoia National Monument Free RV Parking

Travel California Boondocking National Park Boondocking

8 Places to Visit in Sequoia National Park in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 13, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Sequoia National Park is one of the most extraordinary parks in the United States. Furthermore, it is one of the oldest national parks, having been founded on September 25, 1890. Situated in the Central Valley and High Sierras of California, it has many amazing sights to offer and is a place of splendor and awe. Stunningly vast, it covers more than 400,000 acres, with most of the park considered true wilderness, meaning essentially unmarked by man.

If you’re looking for things to do in Sequoia National Park, you will never be bored. You can see some of the biggest trees in the world here, enjoy hiking the many scenic trails leading through the wilderness that appears to be as untouched now as it was in the beginning, go for picturesque drives, and still never run out of things to do. Furthermore, certain locations in the park can only be accessed by foot or on horseback. If you’re interested in even more exciting and fun things to do in Sequoia National Park, read on.

Sequoia National Park (5)

check out our video

Visit the Largest Tree In the World In Sequoia National Park

This is the General Sherman Tree, and seeing it is a real thrill. Now it needs to be understood that the General Sherman Tree is called the largest tree on the earth, but this means by volume. What this means is that measured by the amount of wood, it is the most gigantic tree on earth, even though it is not the tallest nor the widest. However, it is 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter at its base, which makes viewing this tree in all its splendor one of the greatest experiences to have in Sequoia National Park.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to California?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

The tree is reached by hiking a short trail, but don’t be deceived by the word short. Found at 7,000 feet in elevation, this hike can be a lot more taxing than you originally believe. The main parking area is positioned at the top of a hill, making the climb back to your vehicle from the tree site a difficult one. Fortunately, there are benches placed strategically along the way so you can stop for a rest. you’ll need too. Round trip, the Sherman Tree Trail is around a 1 mile trip. It also includes stairs that you will have to mount.

Keep in mind that there are plenty of other Giant Sequoias, literally thousands in the Giant Forest. Some other trails worth investigating are Big Trees Trail and Congress Loop.

Climb Moro Rock In Sequoia National Park

Moro Rock Trail - Sequoia National Park

Moro Rock is a granite dome that protrudes over the edge of the Giant Forest and can easily be seen by anyone who happens to be driving up the Generals Highway leading into the southern part of Sequoia National Park. Emerging high above you as drive the rock instantly mesmerizes you and from then on you are committed to climbing to the top.

A concrete stairway was built into the rock in the 1930s. It is a long stairway with metal railings that goes directly to the top of Moro Rock. Upgrading the deteriorating wooden staircase that existed in place of the now concrete one, was a smart move, as the park was able to design a route to the top that is harmonious with the surroundings and also made the climb a lot more safe for visitors.

The stairway is nearly 800 feet long with over 350 steps to the top. This is a demanding climb at an elevation of 6,725 feet. You will actually gain 300 feet in elevation while you are climbing the stairs. There are handrails to aid you along the way as you climb.

In the age of the Covid-19 virus, you should realize that social distancing is not practical or possible on this trail and face masks or coverings are highly recommended. If you want to skip the crowds, or find the hike too tiresome, there are other granite domes in Sequoia National Park such as Little Baldy, Big Baldy, and Beetle Rock.

In the summer you can catch a ride on a shuttle that will bring your from the Giant Forest Museum to Moro Rock. Winter is a different story. In the wintertime, the road closes and you will have to walk 1.5 miles each way from the Museum to get to the stairs. Be warned, do not try climbing Moro Rock in snow or icy conditions. Take this caution very seriously, as you can start out fine and wind up unable to make your way back down in snow or ice.

View Hospital Rock

Sequoia National Park has been the proud home to Native Americans of thousands upon thousands of years. To this day archaeologists continue discovering artifacts.

One fantastic find is a group of pictographs on Hospital Rock. Close by, there are also mortars in the rocks by the Kaweah River. You can find exhibits located near the picnic area restrooms that give interesting information about the culture of the Native Americans who live in the area.

Not far from here, near Potwisha, one of the many campgrounds in Sequoia National Park, there are actually even more mortars to be found and faint pictographs.

Drive Through Tunnel Log

Many visitors to Sequoia can’t contain their anticipation and immediately start to wonder, where’s the tree I can drive through?

On weekdays in summer and depending on the weather in winter, there is a tree you can drive through on your way to Crescent Meadow. The tree succumbed to natural causes and fell across the road in 1937, thus becoming an iconic representation of the park. The next year, a tunnel was carved into the tree as a way to attract visitors.

A word of caution here. Be sure that you check the size of your vehicle before you try to drive through the tunnel. There is no guarantee your vehicle will fit. The tunnel is only 8 feet tall and 17 feet wide. But don’t worry. For vehicles that are too tall, there is a bypass going around the tunnel so you can continue to Crescent Meadow.

Furthermore, while still acting as a main attraction, nowadays, Tunnel Log is also a fantastic reminder of the evolution of National Parks. Yes, they have come a long way! In the early days of the National Park Service, park managers concentrated their energies more on visitor recreation rather than protecting our resources. In this day and age, the National Park Service aims to place restoration and protection on a higher pinnacle than recreation, but maintain that balance is a difficult task.

Visit Tharp’s Log

Our National Parks are rich in history, and it is thought that Hale Tharp was the first non-Native American to tackle exploring the Giant Forest. He arrived in 1856, guided by Potwisha tribe members, without whose help he might not have made it, and proceeded to carve his name into the log. It wasn’t until 1861 that he was able to return meaning to settle there. With the help of fire, Tharp hollowed out the log and build a small cabin essential to his survival. Since that time, it has been utilized as a shelter for a host of pioneers, among them John Muir. The cabin is included in the National Register of Historic Places.

In order to reach Tharp’s Cabin, you can either drive or take the free shuttle to Crescent Meadow. From here there’s a simple 2 mile loop. you’ll find the cabin about halfway on the trail. This was my highlight to my trip to Sequoia National Park.

Marvel At Both Tokopah and Marble Falls

Two amazingly beautiful waterfalls are located on easy trails in Sequoia National Park: Tokopah in the Lodgepole area and Marble in the foothills. In order to get to Marble Falls, you need to follow the trail 3.9 miles beginning at the dirt road near site #14 in Potwisha Campground.

Tokopah Falls is a huge favorite among people searching for the best things to do in Sequoia National Park. Tokopah Falls Trail has its origins in the Lodgepole Campground close to Marble Fork Bridge. This trail is challenging at 1.7 miles one way. The time to see the falls at their peak is in the early summer.

Explore Crystal Cave In Sequoia National Park

This is an exciting and fun experience. From the start of spring through fall, the Sequoia National Park Conservancy gives tours of an astounding marble cave in Sequoia National Park. The tour is 45 minutes and tickets are a must, however they can be bought online. You should plan ahead because this is a very popular tour and could be sold out. You aren’t permitted to visit the cave without a tour guide.

To gain access to Crystal Cave, all visitors must hike a steep 1/2-mile route from cave parking to the entrance. Another 1/2-mile trail takes you through the cave.

Vehicles that are longer than 22 feet are not allowed on the winding road to Crystal Cave. The temperature of the cave is around 50 degrees, so be sure that you take a jacket with you.

Sled Down the Hill at Wolverton

Winter can be a glorious time to begin your exploration of Sequoia National Park, but that is only if you have the appropriate gear. This means traction devices for your shoes and your vehicle. You may also require skis, sleds, or snowshoes.

Wolverton, found in the Giant Forest, has two quite good sledding hills in a vast, open meadow. Take care on the hills as it can be hard to see exposed rocks or trees when they are buried in snow.

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July 13, 2022 0 comments

Travel Arizona Boondocking National Park Boondocking

18 Saguaro National Park Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 12, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Saguaro National Park is considered one of the most beautiful and unique places in Arizona, the United States, and the world. There are hidden gems in this fantastic park that visiting to find out will make your trip memorable. Here is why you should visit Saguaro National Park in Arizona.

History of Mount Saguaro National Park

In 1933, President Herbert Hoover established the Saguaro National Monument in the Rincon Mountains. Before the creation of this park, there were residents and visitors around it. The Hohokam, Sobaipuri, Tohono O’odham, Apaches, Spanish explorers, missionaries, miners, homesteaders, and ranches inhabited this area before the creation of the National monument in 1933.

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In 1961, the Tucson Mountain District was added to the Saguaro National Monument by President John F. Kennedy. It took years and involvement by representatives, senators, and presidents before Saguaro National Park was formed on 14th October 1994 by the congress. This Park covers around 370 square kilometers, and it is divided into two districts, i.e., Tucson Mountain District on the western and Rincon Mountain District on the eastern side. Currently, Saguaro National Park features beautiful plants, trails, hills, and animals that call it home. There are archaeological sites in this national park spanning over 8,000 years of prehistoric and historic-period occupation.

Saguro National Park Camping

18 Free Camping Spots for Saguaro National Park

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1. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 6 Miles: – E Redington Rd – Santa Catalina Mountains

Address
Tucson, Arizona
GPS: 32.261879, -110.649788
Elevation: 3766′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 32′. You may stay 14 Nights at E Redington Rd – Santa Catalina Mountains.

Best Review:

The road is washboard, there was a lot of sites going up the road. We had to look for a level site, that was off the road. It was a gorgeous place, we took a nice hike around. We tent camped. The views are amazing. There was a lot of trash, and we picked up our site during our stay. Lots of glass, bullets. We did hear shooting late into the night and early morning, but it sounded far away from our site. Lots of people with their toys. It was great for free camping.

2. Saguaro National Park West Free Campsites and Boondocking – 16 Miles: – Exit 297 off I 10

Address
Benson, Arizona
GPS: 31.99294, -110.43501
Elevation: 4091′

Management: Public

The road in is Dirt and 50 ft miles from a paved road. Exit 297 off I 10 is open all. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Exit 297 off I 10.

Best Review:

Loved this spot stayed 2 nights. Beautiful scenery surrounded by mountains yes if you aren’t use to train traffic this spot is not for you but if you can ignore the train noise just enjoy the beauty. A Dollar General is right down the street for groceries.

3. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 17 Miles: – Incinerator Ridge

Address
865 Mount Lemmon Highway
Mount Lemmon, Arizona
GPS: 32.409167, -110.701334
Elevation: 8140′

Management: Forest Service

Incinerator Ridge is open May – Nov. Free Dispersed camping in the Coronado National Forest’s Santa Catalina Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

This spot was excellent. There are a number of spots all with different attributes. I went to the top and chose to hike in about 150m from the car park. The sunrise was absolutely amazing. I believe most of the spots have some kind of view but if you go to the top you get a great overlook view. Lots of butterflies and bees as well. The temperature dipped down to about 60 at night so I had to put the fly on the tent, but if you can brave it the stars are beautiful and it’s wonderful to hear the wind blowing around the site. I will definitely come back to this spot again.

4. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 17 Miles: – Bigelow Road – Santa Catalina Mountains

Address
Bigelow Rd.
Mount Lemmon, Arizona
GPS: 32.413776, -110.720987
Elevation: 8383′

Management: Forest Service

Free dispersed camping all along Bigelow Rd. The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. There are 16-29 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Pretty sweet spot. stayed here in my SUV. however, only one spot to camp available from december 15th-march 1st. both gates are now closed. its beautiful to hike further inward. unfortunately, theres a surprising amount of traffic coming in and out from the nearby observatory and rude folks that park a little too close to your camp to go hiking in. im sure its better when the other campsites are open in the season.

5. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 22 Miles: – Redfield Canyon

Address
Unnamed Road
Willcox, Arizona
GPS: 32.431644, -110.388638
Elevation: 3222′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Redfield Canyon is open all year. Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management Safford District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

Best Review:

Be very careful, I actually had to turn stone before getting here. I was heading north to mammoth, and took a road east to this camp site, but actually had to turn around and find somewhere else because my 4×4 could not fit between the cholla. Perhaps there is another route to this campsite I don’t know about, but I found the way into this one impassable by car.

6. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 25 Miles: – Muleshoe Ranch

Address
Forest Service Road 691
Willcox, Arizona
GPS: 32.33786, -110.238687
Elevation: 4078′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

This free campsite is located within the Bureau of Land Management Safford District.

Best Review:

None

7. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 28 Miles: – Cieneguita Primitive Camp Area

Address
Yucca Ash Farm Rd
Sonoita, Arizona
GPS: 31.76661, -110.62722
Elevation: 4607′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Dirt. Cieneguita Primitive Camp Area is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Cieneguita Primitive Camp Area.

Best Review:

Pre-pandemic, this area was really amazing. But the incredible influx of traffic from COVID-era campers has literally altered the landscape. Campsites that used to be tucked away in the grasses and trees have been ripped up and crushed by vehicles. The garbage issue is terrible as well — we found toilet paper everywhere. My hope is that people will be more careful out here and the land will rebound. It’s your land — please be kind and leave it as you found it, and don’t make new campsites or enlarge small ones by destroying vegetation.

8. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 29 Miles: – Old Ajo Highway Campground

Address
Tucson Estates, Arizona
GPS: 32.1614, -111.1038
Elevation: 2507′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Old Ajo Highway Campground is open all year. Free Dispersed camping in the Bureau of Land Management. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

Best Review:

After a LONG day of driving and getting to a first come first serve campsite that was completely packed, we were not sure what to do. The neighborhood where Walmart is located has a HOA that doesn’t allow RV’s to park overnight, the usual (Cabela’s, rest stops, etc), were all pretty far away, everywhere was fully booked… BUT… Old Ajo BLM land was our savior.

9. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 6 Miles: – Snyder Hill BLM

Address
Tucson, Arizona
GPS: 32.156941, -111.116493
Elevation: 2471′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Free dry camping just off Highway 86 and S San Joaquin Rd. This is a little patch of BLM in the middle of major development. Nicer than you might expect. Desert trees and a picturesque rocky hillside.

Best Review:

Arrived on a Monday around noon and this place was is pretty bad shape. Garbage everywhere (piles of trash bags, someone dropped off a big screen tv (old style that weights probably 200lbs) and just other junk. Looked like a few of the “campers” were more like squatters. Road noise is significant, broken glass and rutted roads throughout.

The road in is Paved. Snyder Hill BLM is open All Year. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Any. You may stay 14 days at Snyder Hill BLM.

10. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 30 Miles: – Kentucky Camp

Address
Arizona Trail
Sonoita, Arizona
GPS: 31.747933, -110.740999
Elevation: 5236′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Coronado National Forest’s Nogales Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted.

Best Review:

None

11. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 30 Miles: – Gardner Canyon – Coronado National Forest

Address
Sonoita, Arizona
GPS: 31.734566, -110.67701
Elevation: 4755′

Management: Forest Service

Gardner Canyon – Coronado National Forest is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 Days at Gardner Canyon – Coronado National Forest.

Best Review:

Dispersed camping along Gardner Canyon road in the Coronado National Forest. No facilities. The land 1/2 a mile on each side of highway 83 is state trust land. This area requires a permit.

Once you drive 1/2mi west, you are on BLM land and will continue to be for the next 1/4 mile. After that, it’s forest service land. See the attached image.

12. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 30 Miles: – Cracker Barrel

Address
8400 N Cracker barrel rd
Marana, Arizona
GPS: 32.35972, -111.09272
Elevation: 2159′

Management: Retail Store

The road in is Paved. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay Unknown at Cracker Barrel.

Best Review:

None

13. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 32 Miles: – Willcox AZ, I-10 E & W bound.

Address
Dragoon, Arizona
GPS: 32.06068, -110.07616
Elevation: 4964′

Management: DOT Rest Area

None

14. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 33 Miles: – Gardner Canyon

Address
Patagonia, Arizona
GPS: 31.706682, -110.775327

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. Gardner Canyon is open 365. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. There are 5 large Marked Sites closer to the beginning of the road. There are numerous Dispersed Camping sites all along Gardner Canyon Road and Upper Gardner Canyon road (785). As with most of Southern Arizona TRAVEL CAUTION Smuggling and Illegal Immigration may be encountered in this area

Best Review:

None

15. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 33 Miles: – White House Ruins

Address
South Madera Canyon Road
Green Valley, Arizona
GPS: 31.741184, -110.886011
Elevation: 4452′

Management: Forest Service

The Whitehouse area is named for the nearby ruins of an old white adobe house built at the mouth of Madera Canyon in the 1880’s.

Best Review:

There are a multitude of signs posted along Madera Canyon Rd that advise visitors that this is a fee-required area. There is a pay campground at Bog Springs and free parking/camping ONLY along Proctor Rd, but there is no longer any free camping or any free parking areas directly at the road side in the canyon. Any use of the parking, rest-rooms or trailheads requires the $5 fee (Jan 2017).

16. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 33 Miles: – Madera Canyon – Proctor Rd

Address
Green Valley, Arizona
GPS: 31.74021, -110.893487
Elevation: 4321′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 1/2 mile to 2 miles miles from a paved road. Madera Canyon – Proctor Rd is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Madera Canyon – Proctor Rd.

Best Review:

We stayed here for 2 nights. Fairly level easy access but you do need to be careful on the slightly rocky road in to the campsites. There are single and multiple Rv sites. Seen a few vans and a few big tt maybe 2832’ long. We stayed here in a 15’ teardrop tt towed with an FJ Cruiser. There is a shallow creek crossing shortly after entering Proctor Rd. Be aware Proctor Rd is the dirt Rd on the right just after the information center. We would stay here again.

17. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 38 Miles: – Cochise Stronghold West

Address
Toombstone, Arizona
GPS: 31.898001, -110.038483
Elevation: 4937′

Management: Forest Service

Cochise Stronghold is open Sep-May. The maximum RV length at Cochise Stronghold is 22 feet.

Best Review:

Beautiful campground. Only $10. Be careful of your going up there after a rain.. you may need to forage a river. Lol. We made it with our Promaster but it was touch and go for a minute there.

18. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 38 Miles: – Mt. Hopkins Rd

Address
Amado, Arizona
GPS: 31.70093, -111.00367
Elevation: 3507′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Paved. Mt. Hopkins Rd is open all year. The maximum RV length at Mt. Hopkins Rd is 35 feet. You may stay 14 days at Mt. Hopkins Rd. A great place to camp, on BLM land.

Best Review:

Great place. Flush toilets at a trailhead 4 miles away. Very quiet camping. Only had 1 cow wander into camp. Rancher came by today and said 2 week limit. So it wasn’t law enforcement but maybe edit that under unlimited stay. If your not in the right crowd maybe 14 days

Here Are the Top 5 Trails In Saguaro National Park, Perfect for Hiking.

Saguaro Lake, the most easily accessible of four reservoirs on the Salt River, is a sight for eyes parched by the urban desert landscape. Just about an hour away from Phoenix, Butcher Jones Trail offers majestic views of this lake, its canyon walls, and the wildlife that surrounds it

1. Mica View Loop Trail

1 Mica View Loop Trail

Mica View – Cholla – Cactus Forest Loop Trail is a 3.7 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Tucson, Arizona that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and bird watching and is accessible year-round.

This is one of the best trails in Saguaro National Park, located at Rincon Mountain District (East). The trail is approximately 3.7 miles long. This trail has an elevation gain of 121 feet, and it is a loop-type of the trail. Mica View Loop trail is one of the most visited trails in Saguaro National Park due to its accessibility for all hiking levels and stunning wildflowers. Additionally, this trail is open all year round, and you can go hiking there very early in the morning or in the evening. The beginning parts of this trail are sandy, while the last parts are paved. While hiking, you may spot snakes, bobcats, and even here coyotes, and therefore, you should be vigilant.

Length: 3.7 mi
Elevation Gain: 121 ft
Route Type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No Dogs

2. Valley View Overlook Trail

Valley View Overlook is a short trail only measuring .08 of a mile. The trail at the right time of the year offers great flowering cactus and for that reason along with being near Tucson draws a ton of attention. The trail is easy to hike and worth your time but do it on a weekday when the traffic on the trail will be much lighter.

This hiking trail is located in Tucson Mountain District (West), and it spans around 0.8 miles. The trail has an elevation gain of 49 feet, and it is an out & back type of trail. The 0.8-mile hiking trail is an easy trail making it a popular hiking spot in Saguaro National Park. Additionally, you can go hiking on this trail during any time of the year, and since it is an easy trail, it is a perfect place in Saguaro National Park that you can go hiking with kids. Along the trail, there are no shades, and therefore, you should venture here early in the morning or late in the evening when it is a bit cooler. On this trail, there are snakes, lizards, rabbits, and many more that you should watch out for, and you may get a chance to see.

Length: 0.8 mi
Elevation Gain: 49 ft
Route Type: Out & Back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No dogs

3. Garwood Trail

Hiking on the Garwood tail is usually a family affair but it is 3.3 long and should only be used if your young ones are teenagers. The best times to hike any of the Saguaro National Park trails is September to May due to the high temps in Arizona.

This is another easy to access and hike. The trail is located at Rincon Mountain District in Saguaro National Park. The trail spans around 3.3 miles, and it is an out and back-trail type. Due to the easiness to access and hike in, hikers of all skill levels visit it frequently during their visit to Saguaro National Park. Saguaro National Park has scorching weather, and it hugs the edge of mountains; hence it does not have many shades, and therefore you go hiking there with a lot of water and wear a hat. The best time to visit this trail is from September till May. While hiking, you will be able to see beautiful saguaros, prickly pears, and even cholla. Gila monsters are common along this trail, and therefore you should watch out for them.

Length: 3.3 mi
Elevation Gain: 203 ft
Route Type: Out & Back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, No dogs

4. Bridal Wreath Falls Trail

Bridal Wreath Falls Trail is a 5.7 mile trail and due to its close proximity to Tucson is used quite heavily on weekend. For that reason we would recommend that you use this trail on weekdays between September to May to avoid the heat. The trail does have some great do do to its length not made for the family with very young children.

This trail is considered one of the heavily trafficked trails in Saguaro National Park. The trail spans around 5.6 miles, and it is an out and back trail with an elevation gain of 1,072 feet. This top trail is located at Rincon Mountain District in Saguaro National Park. There are excellent views over the Arizona wilderness and a waterfall you will find while hiking along this trail. The best time to hike along this trail is around 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. when the temperatures are tolerable and during winter when it is a bit cooler. It is not easy to spot an animal while hiking on this trail despite desert tortoises and snakes like diamondbacks being spotted by hikers at one time. It would be best if you carried with you a lot of water when going hiking on this trail.

Length: 2.2 mi
Elevation Gain: 291 ft
Route Type: Out & Back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No dogs

5. Petroglyphs at King Canyon

The Petroglyphs at King Canyon is a 2.2 mile out and back trail and is good for families with older children. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from September until May.

The trail spans around 2.2 miles, and it is an out and back trail type. The elevation gain for this trail is 291 feet, and it is located in the west district of Saguaro National Park. This trail is ranked moderate, and it is a good place for hiking, birdwatching, and walking during your visit to Saguaro National Park. If you are a beginner, this is an excellent trail for you while in Saguaro National Park.

Length: 5.7 mi
Elevation Gain: 1,095 ft
Route Type: Out & Back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Historic site, No dogs

What You Will Find In Saguaro National Park

1. Saguaros

This Park is full of the tree-like cactus species known as saguaros. If you are an outdoor enthusiast that is nature-oriented, this is one of the reasons you should visit this park. The Park is choke-full of saguaros giving it an incredible sight that is lovely. For a saguaro to grow its first arm, it may take 75-100 years, making these plants in the park a bit old. Additionally, despite this national park being located in the desert, it receives more precipitation than most arid areas, responsible for the thick cactus forests along the trails there. There is a lot of greenery due to the saguaros in the over 165 miles of trails in this park.

2. Animals

Saguaro National Park is home to multiple wildlife that you will be able to see during your visit. Besides, there are typical desert creatures in this park. Some of the animals that call this park home are javelina, bobcat, coyote, vulture, roadrunner, hummingbird, Gila monsters (venomous lizards), and even bark scorpions. Additionally, you may even get a chance to see a jaguar roaming or the endangered thick-billed parrot on a saguaro during your visit.

3. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

This spectacular desert was founded in 1952, and it will provide you with an incredible outdoor experience. The museum is located five minutes from the west entrance of Saguaro National Park. Sonoran desert’s flora, fauna, natural history, and landscape are among the things you will get details about during your visit. Additionally, you will find multiple interesting exhibits, scientific experts to learn from and see and meet a lot of animals rescued around the desert. Most of the animals in this desert are nocturnal, and it is too hot during the day; hence you should visit in the morning hours when most animals are more responsive.

4. Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking.

Saguaro National Park features well-maintained trails for hiking. Due to this, hiking is the most popular activity in this park. There are excellent trails in eastern and western districts that you can use for short and long walks. Additionally, this park has lovely places that are great for camping and backpacking.

5. Wildflowers

There are more than 100 species of flowers in Saguaro National Park. When visiting during the spring season, you will find the Sonoran Desert annual flowers blooming. Additionally, if you are keen, you will see the wildflowers blossom, providing the park with beauty. Between April and June, the saguaros bloom and produce beautiful white flowers. It would be best if you visited before mid-afternoon since the flowers close at that time.

6. Two districts

Saguaro National Park comprises Rincon Mountain District on the east and Tucson Mountain District on the west. You will be able to visit both of them at a price of one, giving you more places and terrains to explore.

7. Cactus Forest Loop Drive

This beautiful park features an 8-mile drive with plenty of scenic views and pullouts. This drive-in Saguaro National Park is an excellent place for cycling and running, and it provides access to several trails, even for mountain biking.

8. Photography Ops

Saguaro National Park features unique places for taking photos. During spring, you can take stunning images of flowers. You can also take photos of moody sunsets and lightning storms.

Low Cost Permit Camping

Some of this camping is much closer to the areas around Saguaro East

1. Saguaro National Park Free Campsites and Boondocking – 6 Miles: – E Via Rancho Del Cielo

Address
Santa Rita, Arizona
GPS: 32.077793, -110.633864
Elevation: 3527′

Management – Arizona State Trust Land

Good lil spot camping here tonight not alot of people around just one other fellow truck camper down the way.

Pretty desert out here. We saw the sheriff so make sure you have bought and printed out your state land permit — there’s no free camping in the area. Quite a few houses further down Pistol Hill Rd so there is some traffic and locals come out to roost their dirtbikes and atvs at times — one came at 10pm to make noise right next to us. Verizon signal is there but didn’t work for us without using a booster. Also most of the few sites are small and need high clearance. I would not recommend going down any of the 2-tracks without scouting.

2. Saguaro National Park West Campsites and Boondocking – 15 Miles: – Mescal Rd

Address
Benson, Arizona
GPS: 32.011853, -110.428905

Management – Arizona State Trust Land

Exit 297 on I-10, about 5 mi. west of Benson. Go north…Paved road turns to dirt at 3 mi. I only went another mile to find a big area to camp. Very quiet! Views for miles & miles, great sunset last night. A big plus is the Tucson Movie set of the Old West. Tours on some weekends from Feb.-June.

My husband and I stayed one night, Feb. 15, 2020. We LOVED it! The owner came immediately to check our permit (one of the best things we have ever bought!). He was so welcoming and extremely polite. He, Frank, took the time to tell us about his family, the land and the wildlife that we might see. We would have stayed longer, but had previous commitments. We will definitely be back!! Thanks, Frank!!

Saguaro National Park

How to Get to the Mount Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is divided into two districts that are geographically separated by Tucson city. The two districts that make this beautiful park are Rincon Mountain District (RMD), mainly known as Saguaro East, and the Tucson Mountain District (TMD), commonly known as Saguaro West. Here is how you can easily get to Saguaro National Park.

Rincon Mountain District, Saguaro East.

From the City of Tucson, you will travel east on Broadway to Freeman Road and then turn right and drive south for 3 miles. Then you will turn left, where you will get onto Old Spanish Trail, where you will drive for another 25 miles southeast to the entrance of this park on your left side of the road.

From Interstate 10, you will take Exit I- 10 at Exit #275 in Houghton Road and drive 8 miles north. You will then turn right on Escalante Road and drive for another 2 miles and turn left where you will get to Old Spanish Trail and go for another 0.3 miles and turn right on the park’s entrance.

Tucson Mountain District, Saguaro West.

From north of Tucson, you will take I- 10 to Avra Valley Road exit 242 and drive 6 miles west to Sandario Road and then turn left(south) and drive for another 14 miles before turning left onto Kinney Road. From there, you will go for another 2 miles, where you will find The Red Hills Visitor Center on your left.

From the center of Tucson, you drive west on Speedway Boulevard over Gates Pass to Kinney Road. (Your vehicle should be less than 12,000 lbs. and less than 25 feet) you will then drive for 4 miles after turning right (north) on Kinney Road up to the junction of Kinney and Mile Wide Roads and then turn right to the park, where you will drive for another 1 mile to the Red Hills Visitor Center on your right.

From south of Tucson, you will take exit I 19 onto Ajo Way (State Route 86) and drive west to Kinney Road and turn right then drive for 18 miles along Kinney Road where you will find the junction of Kinney and Mile Wide Roads and then turn right into the national park and continue driving for another 1 mile on Kinney Road where you will get to the park’s entrance on your right.

Saguro Cactus Saguaro National Park

Places and Things to Do and See In Saguaro National Park

1. Embrace cactus diversity at the Cactus Garden Trail

During your visit to Saguaro National Park’s visitor center, you can take on the 0.5-mile trail that heads towards the cactus garden. In the cactus garden, you will find many different types of cacti and get to learn more about the multiple cactus and their benefits to the desert environment.

2. Scenic Bajada Loop Drive

During your visit to Saguaro National Park, you should never fail to marvel at this drive. This scenic loop drive is an over 6-mile well-maintained gravel road featuring hills and bumps. While traveling on this road, you will see multiple things, including plants, wildlife, and the saguaro cactus. Additionally, there are picnic areas, viewpoints, and trailheads along this loop. You can stop at the viewpoints and have spectacular views of the park

3. View ancient petroglyphs at Signal Hill

This rocky façade is one of the most visited places in Saguaro National Park. It is a 0.5-mile hike to this attraction. During your visit, you will be able to see around 200 ancient Native American petroglyphs made by the Hohokam people hundreds of years back. Some of the petroglyphs include a large spiral, images of animals, and other abstract representations. You will also have beautiful views of the park from this hill. You can relax in the serene and shady picnic area around this hill.

4. Cactus Forest Loop Drive

This sightseeing is found in the Rincon Mountain District in Saguaro National Park. This loop drive is an 8-mile paved road with access to multiple trailheads, overlooks, and stunning views. The tallest cacti in Saguaro National Park are found along this loop drive. During your visit, you can climb on top of the Javelina rocks and have fantastic views of Saguaro National Park and Tucson as a whole. Cycling is common along this loop, and you can easily access multiple hiking trailheads from this loop drive.

5. Desert Discovery Trail

If you want to have spectacular views of the sunset during your visit to Saguaro National Park, you should stop at the Desert Discovery Trail. You will be able to see the sunset behind the mountains.

6. Arizona Sonora Desert Museum

This is another place to visit while in Saguaro National Park, although it is not part of the national park. It is a great place to stop by if you want to get more details about the park and the desert ecosystem. This attraction is a 98-acre zoo, aquarium, botanical garden, natural history museum, publisher, and art gallery. There are two miles of walking paths, over 230 animal species, 1,200 varieties of plants, and you will be able to see during your visit.

op Trails to Hike at Saguaro National Park with detailed descriptions

Saguaro National Park is an excellent destination featuring more than 165 miles of hiking trails. The highlights of Saguaro National Park are hiking trails, saguaro cacti, and the Rincon Mountains. The best time to go hiking at Saguaro National Park is between October and April, when the weather is a bit cool since this national park is located in the middle of the Arizona desert with scorching heat.

Paid Accommodations and Dining Near Saguaro National Park

During your visit to Saguaro National Park, here are the places you can dine and stay.

Desert Diamond Casino Hotel is located at 7350 S Nogales Hwy. it is 17.2 miles away from Saguaro National Park

White Stallion Ranch is located 53.0 miles away from Saguaro National Park at 9251 W Twin Peaks Rd.

La Quinta Inn Suites is located 6.1 miles from Saguaro National Park at 6020 W Hospitality Rd.

Red Roof Inn Tucson North – Marana located 6.4 miles away at 4940 W Ina Rd.

Hampton Inn & Suites Tucson Marana is located 6.8 miles at 6300 W Marana Center Blvd.

What to Pack for Your Visit to Saguaro National Park?

If you are an outdoor enthusiast planning an outdoor expedition in Saguaro National Park, here are the gears you should carry along:

Hiking boots. The boots should have good ankle support and be roomy. The boots will help in hiking the wild trails and in keeping your feet comfortable.

Reusable water jug. You will use it to carry water that will keep you hydrated when hiking in Saguaro National Park.

Sunscreen. The weather in Saguaro National Park is scorching, and there are hikes without shelters from the sun.

Light-colored clothing with long pants. This will help in protecting you from the sun and desert insects.

Park map. If you have never been to Saguaro National Park, you should download an offline map to help in direction purposes and prevent you from getting lost.

Quick-dry travel towel. You will use it to wipe sweat and to keep dry.

Breathable hat. This will help in protecting your head from direct UV rays.

Cooling towel. To keep you cool while hiking.

Windproof umbrella. For shelter from rain or direct sun rays

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July 12, 2022 0 comments

5. The Lock Lake Trail through Glacier Gorge Trail

Travel Montana Boondocking Boondocking National Park Boondocking

20 Glacier National Park Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 12, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Glacier National Park Boondocking Spots for your visit to the “Crown of the Continent” is an apt nickname for this pair of parks. They feature some of the most impressive mountain scenery in North America.

The Glacier national park is one of the most magnificent places to visit. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature after long hectic, and boring days, either alone or on a team-building mission. It has amazing scenery that will renew the energy needed to keep your mind fresh. It is a park with alpine scenery, a type of glacier found in the mountains. It has a road awarded as one of the best mountain roads in America, known as Going to the Sun Road. It is also the world’s first international peace park.

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History of the Glacier National Park

The Glacier national park has an interesting history. In the 1890s, the park’s landscape attracted the attention of constructors of the Great Northern Railway. The railroad pass to the park was located by John Stevens and an Indian guide called Coonsah. Within a few years, the place began attracting tourists who were amazed at the beauty of the landscape. On the 11th of May 1910, Glacier National Park was established as the 10th national park in the country. The park has experienced great developments that facilitate the comfort of its tourists. In 2010 the park had a record of having 2.2 million visitors in that year.

How to Get To the Glacier National Park

The Glacier national park is located in northwestern Flathead county and glacier county, Montana. It borders the United States and Canada. The nearest city to Glacier national park is Columbia Falls, Montana. The park covers 1,013,322 acres and is governed by the National Park Service.

Your case has been taken care of if you feel like traveling using an airplane because the park has an airport, the Glacier Park International Airport. Alternatively, you can use the Missoula or the Great Falls to drive to the park.

Glacier National Park (8)

20 Free Glacier National Park Boondocking Options

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1. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Apgar Picnic Area

Address
West Glacier, Montana
GPS: 48.528923, -113.97951
Elevation: 3166′

Management: National Park Service

The road in is Paved. Apgar Picnic Area is open Winter. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 at Apgar Picnic Area.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

Love this winter Glacier National Park free camping opportunity, you can’t beat free! Picnic tables, a vault toilet, and fire rings available. Located right by the lake with nice views, I’d definitely pop by here again. We were there with relatively mild weather, but I can see there being issues with wind if the forecast calls for it.

2. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Nyack

Address
West Glacier, Montana
GPS: 48.43748, -113.80418
Elevation: 3360′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and .5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet.

Amenities:

Near Water
Pets Welcome

Best Review:

None

3. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Flathead National Forest-Ryan Road

Address
10 Hungry Horse Dr, Hungry Horse, MT 59919
West Glacier, Montana
GPS: 48.48742, -113.95865
Elevation: 3668′

Management: Forest Service

The road in to this Glacier National Park free campsite is Dirt and 1-2 miles from a paved road. Flathead National Forest-Ryan Road is open year round but seasonal rd. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 Days at Flathead National Forest-Ryan Road.

Best Review:

Wonderful campsite! Beautiful scenery and felt safe for two solo girls tent camping. Super close to the park and gas station and we both had plenty of phone service (at&t and Verizon). The dirt road was even very smooth with hardly any potholes.

Dispersed Camping near West Glacier. Several pull off’s on Ryan Road in the Flathead National Forest. No amenities but really close to West Glacier, full access to Glacier National Park when they fill up. At the end of the road is a private airfield, but just before that is a large clearing where you can park your trailer/RV

4. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Blankenship Bridge – SW

Address
Columbia Falls, Montana
GPS: 48.464456, -114.071732
Elevation: 3104′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and .2 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Near Water
Pets Welcome
Restrooms

Best Review:

I came here on a road trip and it was my favorite campsite of the whole trip! This place is gorgeous. First time, was pretty packed. Sure, not very private but it has a fun community aspect and we had great conversations with other people there and it enriched the experience–everyone was super friendly and had an interesting stories to tell!

5. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Flathead River

Address
Columbia Falls, Montana
GPS: 48.575869, -114.144902
Elevation: 3284′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 3 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Restrooms

Best Review:

Glacier National Park free campsite next to an informal parking lot on Forest Service Road 1070, there are three small campsites with fire rings close to the river. There is a vault toilet. The campsites are very primitive and likely to be noisy during the day as this seems to be a popular place to launch rafts and fishing boats

6. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Glacier Rim

Address
Columbia Falls, Montana
GPS: 48.495144, -114.127676
Elevation: 3185′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 3 days at this Glacier National Park free campsite.

Amenities:

Boat Ramp
Fire Ring
Near Water
Restrooms

Best Review:

Arrived on Memorial Day and stayed three nights. That’s rather early in the season for Glacier NP, but still were amazed to find this place empty. The first night there was no one in any of the few other campsites. The next couple of nights, at least one was occupied. Still, there was basically no traffic at all during our stay.

This place is absolutely amazing. We stayed at the campsite down by the boat ramp. It’s by far the best. There’s no water or electricity, but there is a fire ring and nice pit toilet nearby with a nice parking lot. The road in is gravel but quite short, and no car would have any trouble, it was a high quality road. This was definitely the best campsite we stayed at on our month long road trip.

7. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Flathead NF N Fork Road

Address
Columbia Falls, Montana
GPS: 48.499868, -114.13349
Elevation: 3271′

Management: Forest Service

The road into this Glacier National Park free campsite is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

We LOVED our stay here! We stayed 3 nights and it was a blast. Only about 15 minutes into town and 45 to the gate at glacier NP. It is very quiet even with other people at the site. There is plenty of parking and even though you are next to the road there is only minor traffic and the noise wasn’t a problem for us at all.

8. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – McGinnis Creek

Address
Columbia Falls, Montana
GPS: 48.514339, -114.147621
Elevation: 3778′

Management: Forest Service

The road in to this Glacier National Park free campsite is Gravel and 1.5 miles from a paved road. McGinnis Creek campsite in Flathead National Forest.

Best Review:

Beautiful overlook location that might be rougher for large rigs. It’s off forest service road 803. Know that there are other Forest Service roads in the area that may offer free camping, but we just fell in love with this one.

McGinnis Creek campsite in Flathead National Forest. Beautiful overlook location that might be rougher for large rigs. It’s off forest service road 803. Know that there are other Forest Service roads in the area that may offer free camping, but we just fell in love with this one.

9. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – 19 Miles: – Glacier Center

Address
Columbia Falls, Montana
GPS: 48.415237, -114.049443

Management: Truck Stop

Fuel station will allow self contained vans and RVs to park overnight on the side by the cafe on the parking lot. The gas station closes at 11pm, and reopens at 7am.

Best Review:

None

10. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Hungry Horse Drive

Address
Hungry Horse, Montana
GPS: 48.356648, -113.9284
Elevation: 3596′

Management: Forest Service

The road into this Glacier National Park free campsite is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet.

Best Review:

Stayed 16 days (FREE!) on Emery Creek enjoying cool temps on westside of lake. Watched water level rise on Hungry Horse Reservoir from snow melt and kayaking on cold water. We’re 10 miles out of Martin City, the road out was muddy after week of rain; very dry and dusty otherwise with many potholes which as of last week were repaired! Must move 5 miles after 16 days. Found local dump at station in town (Hungry Horse) and another in Columbia Falls (FREE city water!) near our favorite brewery! There’s a beautiful dam on east side and many ‘FEE’ required cg’s along an 18 mile paved road.

11. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Big Creek Road

Address
Whitefish, Montana
GPS: 48.604236, -114.192186
Elevation: 3571′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed Camping -> No Reservations

Best Review:

Not the best of views and there were a lot of bullet shells. It was close to Glacier. We had a mule deer visitor every morning we spent there.

12. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Coal Banks

Address
Pole Bridge, Montana
GPS: 48.68968, -114.19464
Elevation: 3415′

Management: Forest Service

Glacier National Park free campsite and or paid campground depending on your choice.

Best Review:

Where else can you park directly on the river for $10/night? There are not many choices for camping along the Missouri in the Great Falls / Fort Benton area, but Coal Banks is really a great option. Although managed by the BLM, the campground is most similar to a nice national forest campground. There is a small number of designated sites — only 3 RV sites and an unknown number of tent sites. Sites are quite level, with picnic tables and fire pits. There is a vault toilet, and a small cabin/office with information and — get this — FREE WIFI on the porch.

13. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Hungry Horse Reservoir

Address
Martin City, Montana
GPS: 48.343789, -113.935556
Elevation: 3701′

Management: Forest Service

Free dispersed camping. You may stay 16 days at Hungry Horse Reservior.

Best Review:

Emery Bay Campground itself is not a Glacier National Park free campsite. The price for overnight in 2018 is 16.00. The free camping in the description is a dispersed camping area to the right before you get to the campground. The campground is beautiful and has fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and a boat ramp. It is a National Forest Service Campground. Very spotty cell service (voice only).

14. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Abbot Bay

Address
Martin City, Montana
GPS: 48.333851, -113.955965
Elevation: 3606′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and 5 miles miles from a paved road. Abbot Bay is open Memorial to Labor Day. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 16 at Abbot Bay. Approximately 5 miles south of Hungry Horse, MT on the East Side Hungry Horse Resevoir Road #38.

Best Review:

The main camping season on the Flathead National Forest is Memorial Day through Labor Day. While camping at one of the 31 camping areas provides varied accommodations and access, camping throughout the Forest is allowed and can give a one-of-kind camping experience. If you plan on camping away from a designated campsite, please research that area beforehand and follow all posted rules and regulations during your stay. Maximum stay is 16 days.

15. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Hungry Horse Reservoir – Flathead

Address
Martin City, Montana
GPS: 48.327176, -113.991668
Elevation: 3694′

Management: State Park

The road into this Glacier National Park free campsite is Gravel. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. Once you cross the bridge into the hungry horse reservoir area, continue on down the road.

Best Review:

There are actual campsites that have a fee however there were also a decent number of people on the side of the road in unsanctioned places. No one seemed to care though. If you can’t find an actual campsite or don’t want to pay, check the side roads for spots or just pull off the main road where primitive campsites have been set up with fire rings.

16. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Hungry Horse Reservoir Overlook

Address
Martin City, Montana
GPS: 48.321933, -113.996423
Elevation: 4350′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

Amenities:

Fire Ring

Best Review:

Ledge overlooking the reservoir. Spectacular views and no other sites nearby so it’s private. There is a 20 foot scramble down to the ledge so if you have bad knees it could be iffy. Road is passable without high clearance vehicle. Very little shade. Hot at times. Verizon signal wobbled from nothing to 4g but was often strong enough to work remotely. Wildlife in the area. Take bear precautions. Mule deer walked through camp.

17. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – FS895H Dispersed Site

Address
Creston, Montana
GPS: 48.32867, -114.04173
Elevation: 6056′

Management: Forest Service

The road into this Glacier National Park free campsite is 4×4 and 10 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at FS895H Dispersed Site. Wide spot in the last switchback on FS-895H. Elevation 6090’ Secluded, excellent view. No facilities or toilet. A few spots on the way up.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Pets Welcome

Best Review:

Took a 19 foot van up quite a ways but I wouldn’t do it again quite that far. The site was amazingly beautiful, however the road up was treacherous! There are several sites on the way up but no good way of turning around if the sites are taken. The road gets progressively worse as you go up. I wouldn’t suggest taking anything up bigger than a van and only newer vans with good clearance.

18. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Wounded Buck Creek

Address
Kalispell, Montana
GPS: 48.279384, -113.935805
Elevation: 3573′

Management: Forest Service

The road into this Glacier National Park free campsite is Gravel and .1 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 16 at Wounded Buck.

Best Review:

A short gravel road entrance south of Wounded Buck Creek there are a few dispersed spots including some by the waters edge. Someone had a tent trailer parked in the area but I’d be hesitant to bring any rig larger than a van down here.

Its a slightly tight and pitted dirt road, hut the sites right on the flowing creek were great! We setup our tent right next to the creek after checking that we wouldn’t be bothering a friendly neighbor downstream. There was a decent stone fire ring, good parking space, and trees for a hammock. 4-5 cars came down the path looking for space after we setup, so this one is probably popular or in demand, but no one took the two smaller upstream sites closer to the road on Sunday night before labor day.

19. Washington Boondocking Choices for Glacier National Park – Flossy Creek Camp, Hungry Horse Reservoir

Address
GPS: 48.25484, -113.86634
Elevation: 3570′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed Camping ->No water or facilities. so, small RVs are best. But oh, what a boondock haven! You can stay 14 days max. Flathead National Forest

Best Review:

I chose to stay in a spot up near the beginning of the unnamed road because the place was almost full. I had a nice spot with a fire ring and lots of quiet. The area described in the other post is a gorgeous spot. It’s like a private lagoon surrounded by tall cliffs with trees.

I saw at least 4 good sized camper trailers there. Frankly, they are probably missing a leveling jack or two but it proves a passenger car should have no trouble getting in there. Once you start down that road with a trailer you are committed. So take the walk down beforehand ot will save you a lot of grief.

20. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Glacier National Park – Polebridge River Access

Address
Montana
GPS: 48.782483, -114.282726
Elevation: 3543′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and 15 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Amenities:

Boat Ramp
Near Water
Restrooms

Best Review:

This on the west side of the North Fork Flathead River. It is located before you cross the bridge and enter GNP. There is a limit of 3 nights at this site. It is a large gravel parking lot with a pit toilet. I saw a travel trailer here and one tent. The view west is nice with tree covered mountains and if you are close enough you can hear the river.

Top Trails to Hike at the Glacier National Park

Glacier national park is the perfect destination for all lovers of hiking. There are many trails to conquer. The Iceberg Lake Trail climbs over 1200ft steadily on a well-groomed trail. The next trail is considered lucky as it has evaded fire and avalanche for hundreds of years. This is the Trail of the Cedars.

These are our top 5 Family Friendly Hiking Trails

1 – St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail

1 - St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail 2 Boondockers

St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail is a 2.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Siyeh Bend, Montana that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from January until September. Glacier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle, with different rates in the Winter. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass. Winter rates are in place 11/1-4/30.

St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail in Glacier National Park offers lake views and beautiful waterfalls, with St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls stealing the show. You really can’t go wrong with a trail that takes you up close to multiple waterfalls this quickly. It’s a great hike for someone who is looking for an easier and quicker trail than some of the others in the park, while still getting to experience some of the best of the park’s beauty.

This area is also fun to visit in summer since there are many spots where you can take a dip. The trail crosses St. Mary’s River and travels parallel to Virginia Creek. There are also multiple trails that allow you to extend your hike if you wish.

Parking is just off of Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is the location of the Saint Mary Falls Shuttle stop.

Length: 2.9 mi
Elevation gain: 452 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, No dogs

2 – Trail of the Cedars

2 - Trail of the Cedars Boondockers

Trail of the Cedars is a 0.9 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Lake Mc Donald, Montana that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October.

Glacier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle, with different rates in the Winter. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass. Winter rates are in place 11/1-4/30.

Most people proceed along this loop starting with the eastern side. This trail can be done in tandem with the Avalanche Trail. However, the Avalanche trail may periodically be closed because of bears.

Accessibility: There are at least 2 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Going-To-The-Sun Road at the west end of the trail. Both of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle. The trail surface is pavement or wooden boardwalk (with edge barriers), and typically at least 5 feet wide.

The estimated grade is mostly gentle (5% or less). This trail will likely be navigable for most wheelchairs/mobility equipment or stroller users. There are benches and picnic tables along the route for resting. According to the park website, there are accessible restrooms at the west and south end of the trail.

Length: 0.9 mi
Elevation gain: 49 ft
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching,
Running, Forest, Paved, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

3 – McDonald Creek Trail

3 Mcdonalds

McDonald Creek Trail is a 5.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Lake Mc Donald, Montana that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. Horses are also able to use this trail.

The road leading to the trailhead may close seasonally during the wintertime, adding about an additional mile to the route each way. Without a 4×4 car you might have issues driving out up the hill of the parking lot. Parking outside of the trail parking lot without going downhill will prevent that.

A sweet little trail along the creek with peaceful views.

Length: 5.6 mi
Elevation gain: 278 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Horseback riding, Nature trips, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee

4 – Johns Lake Loop

4 Johns Lake Loop

Johns Lake Loop is a 1.9 mile loop trail located near Lake Mc Donald, Montana that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, bird watching, and horses and is best used from April until October. Horses are also able to use this trail.

Length: 1.9 mi
Elevation gain: 183 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Horseback riding, Walking, Bird watching, Lake, River, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No Dogs

5 – Redrock Falls via Swift Current Pass

5 - Redrock Falls via Swift Current Pass

Redrock Falls via Swift current Pass is a 3.6 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Siyeh Bend, Montana that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October.

Length: 3.6 mi
Elevation gain: 236 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Fishing, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Lake, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Paid Camping Options For the Glacier National Park

Most national parks charge entry and service fees and keep revenues to service facilities and visitors. The Glacier national park is also not exempted from this. However, they charge entry fees differently based on the age of the visitors. The age of Adults lies between 18 and 64, the age of seniors is 65 years and above, and the youth is 6 to 17 years. The admission fee for adults is $10, seniors $8, and no charge for the youth. The park also charges 20 dollars to family/group and $8.40 per head for commercial groups.

Glacier national park has many campsites, and they all charge differently. Here are some of the charges for different campgrounds per night.

Kintla lake campground charges 15 dollars.
Bowman lake campground 15 dollars
Many Glacier 23 dollars
St Mary 23 dollars

You should also note that the season you have visited the park also determines the amount of money you will pay. Expect to pay more if you visit the park during the peak season.

Places and Things to Do and See

Glacier National park has many things and places to visit, best known for its hiking trails. Starting from the trail of the Cedars, the beauty of the park showcased to Grinnell glacier. You might also come across the glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and jagged peaks.

With more than 700 lakes stunning for boat riding, Glacier national park offers amazing packages for those interested. One should not go home without enjoying the fun activities on the Lake McDonald like bus tours, horse riding, boat riding, and ranger presentation.

Other places to visit include the Going-to-the-Sun road, Logan Pass, virgin falls, and the international peace park in Waterton-Glacier, which holds parks and gardens, recreational facilities, and spectacular sightseeing.

Things to Do at the Glacier National Park

There are several things to do at Glacier national park, and pretty much all of them are interesting. You can opt to go hiking in the mountains in the park. You can also choose to go on the whitewater rafting adventure with your friends. You can carry lunch with you when going on this adventure. You can also float in the middle of the Fork Flathead River. Spinning your wheels on the road as you watch the sun going down as you drive on the Going to the Sun Road is also enjoyable.

The Glacier national park has numerous water bodies that give it an irresistible adventure. You can play water sport games like the floating competition.
For more experienced hikers The Grinnell Glacier is also another good place to do your hiking. It is a mark of glacial loss in the park due to global warming activities, and it covers 127 acres.

How Much Time Do You Need For Your Visit

To see and enjoy what Glacier National Park offers, it is recommendable to make plans for a two to seven-day trip. This will give you a great time to visit many sites in the park, enjoy your time and cover a big section of it.

If you can’t afford to spend much and opt for a one-day trip, plan on sites to visit to minimize the time you will spend thinking of where to go next. If it is your first time, It’s recommendable you do one or two short hikes and a drive to the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Accommodations and Dining Near the Glacier National Park

If you are planning to visit Glacier National Park and stay for a few days or a night, there are numerous accommodation and dining sites you can pick from. You can enjoy the different cuisines served, and some are in the heart of the Glacier National Park. In addition, you can opt to stay within the park or outside in nearby restaurants.

The Glacier National Park website can sort you out by directing you to the park’s nearest accommodation and dining areas. Examples include Lake McDonald, Lucke’s Lounge and Jammer Joe’s, Swiss Lounge, West Glacier Restaurant, Glacier Highland, and La Casita. Most of these restaurants provide a magnificent view of the park as you enjoy delicious meals.

Best Time to Visit the Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is home to over 70 animal species and many bird species. Being one of the most visited parks, it has been preserved and guarded to keep the national history of America.

Visiting the park in different seasons is rewarding in its own way. For instance, if you want to visit Glacier National park when the traffic is low, then the Spring season is the best time to do so.

Many people like visiting interesting places during the peak season for reasons well known to themselves. However, expect to pay extra money if you visit Glacier National Park during the peak seasons. The peak season in this park is usually during summer. You can also visit Glacier national park during winter, but you should keep in mind that the park restricts you from visiting different places.

What to Pack For Your Visit To the Glacier National Park

The Glacier National Park has unpredictable weather conditions, so it is good to be prepared before you set off to the park. Understanding the type of activities you will be doing will guide you on what you might require to have with you.

During summer, the daytime climate goes up to the 70s, but during the night, it drops to the 40s. This means that the nights are chilly, and the possibility of snow during this time is high on higher elevations.

You will need to pack your essentials when visiting Glacier national park. Don’t forget to include the following; rain jacket, extra socks, hiking boots, a camera, binoculars, bear spray, insect repellent, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles.

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July 12, 2022 0 comments

Grand Teton National Park boondocking area

Travel Wyoming Boondocking Boondocking National Park Boondocking

12 Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 12, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Be ready to be amazed when you try any or all of the 12 Great Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites. Each has so much to offer try more than 1.

The Grand Teton National Park is an American National park located North of Jackson, Wyoming. The park is approximately 310,000 acres. The park boasts fascinating features including stunning landscape, piedmont lakes, Knife-like ridges, moraines, U-shaped canyons, and diverse wildlife. Additionally, the park includes major peaks of the 64 kilometers long Teton Range and the Jackson Hole. Teton National Park is 10 miles south of Yellowstone National Park.

History of the Grand Teton National Park National Park

The amazing beauty, as well as the abundant wildlife and plants found in the Grand Teton National Park, have drawn people here for more than 11,000 years. The Nomadic Paleo-Indians first accessed or rather entered the Jackson Hole valley after the Pleistocene Ice Age glaciers retreated. Summer was a time of plenty and abundance and the Indians came to harvest berries and bulbs.

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The first Euro-American explorer to enter this place was John Colter but did not leave any records of his journey. People also visited this place for wealth. Development started to crowd the Jackson Hole as tourism increased. In 1926 John D. Rockefeller visited the area and fell in love with the stunning mountain scenery and began buying land in the valley with the intent of donating it to the federal government to be the Grand Teton National Park.

It took many years to establish the park. In 1929, Congress created the original park to protect the Teton Range and other lakes at the bottom of the mountains. In 1943, Franklin D. Roosevelt announced the additional land in the valley to be the Jackson Hole Monument. Rockefeller donated the land he had purchased to the federal government to be included in the national park. In 1950, Congress joined the original park, the Rockefeller land, and the national monument to form the current Grand Teton National Park.

Great Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites

12 Great Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites

1. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Jackson Hole Grand Teton Natl Park

Address
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.763874, -110.556709
Elevation: 6976′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

The road in is Gravel and a couple miles from a paved road. Jackson Hole Grand Teton Natl Park is open Access Mid June to Mid Sept only due to snow/mud. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Beautiful spot right in the heart of the Tetons! There is plenty of parking and it was not too bad to get our rig there. Take it slow on the road if you have a bigger rig and its still no problem! Lots of places to park near the camping sign that gives you details about the spot and rules that is only about a mile up from the main road. There are more spots further up in the woods but we only walked there. Great place to go for a hike right from the campsite! Very quiet and great views of the entire valley!

2. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Upper Teton View

Address
Moose, WY 83012
Jenny Lake, Wyoming
GPS: 43.7638, -110.5538
Elevation: 7178′

Management: Forest Service

We first drove into the Lower Teton View camping area and questioned whether we should continue to Upper Teton View with our 28ft travel trailer. We finally decided to unhitch and assess the road and the spots available up top which was one of the best decisions we made on our 14 month road trip. The road access wasn’t too bad AND the spot right next to the cliff was wide open!

Best Review:

This place was amazing. Amazing views of the mountains. Fire pits. No bathrooms. Came here because the shadow mountain campsite was full. This place was also packed, we got the last spot here. Stayed here with a tent and would most definitely stay here again. Very little cell service depending on where you stand

3. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Shadow Mountain

Address
Shadow Mountain Road
Moose, Wyoming
GPS: 43.703621, -110.622757
Elevation: 6794′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

The road in is Dirt and 1.5 miles from a paved road. You may stay 5 days at Shadow Mountain.

Best Review:

Overall, great campsite. Beautiful views all around, super clean bathrooms, and plenty of campers to make you feel safe if you are a solo female traveler (like us). We had to get there at around 2 on a Tuesday to find a campsite and it was the last one so definitely get there early. Service goes in and out throughout the day but better than nothing. No complaints!

4. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Spread Creek Meadows

Address
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.77165, -110.48816
Elevation: 7119′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and About 4 miles from a paved road. Spread Creek Meadows is open May to November. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 16 days at Spread Creek Meadows.

Best Review:

Stayed here beginning July 1st on a cross-country trip from PA and we loved it! I believe it was Site #5 on the right side of the loop once you get back there. Road was fine to travel in my 2wd vehicle. Super close and accessible to everything that you’d want to do at the Tetons. Litter wasn’t too bad, the sites are roomy if people give you some breathing space. We had someone park at our site overnight while we were sleeping and then leave the next morning. It’s always a bad idea to be looking for your free camping spot later than 4:00pm, in my opinion. So get here early.

We heard elk almost every night on the ridge behind us and in the morning, one or two would sometimes pass our campsite. We also saw some on the drive in after watching the sunset. Storms blow up easily, so don’t leave your tent without a rain fly even if it looks clear out. The mosquitos and flies were pretty horrendous, especially towards night time. But honestly, we experienced even worse attacks later on in Yellowstone and Washington so I would just remember bug spray and, if you can, a bug-tent if you’re cooking.
As always, have bear spray and lock up your food. I got 3 bars of service in certain spots but not reliably.

5. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Pacific Creek Road Campsites

Address
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.924333, -110.462694
Elevation: 6972′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Free Campsites before you reach the Pacific Creek Campground. Each campsite has a number on a brown plate. 1-3 are grouped together, 4 & 5 were separate, then 6, 7 and 8 are grouped together. No toilet, trash, or water provided. Campfire rings made of rocks.

Best Review:

The coordinates on this website are accurate and took us to campground 5. We went at the end of October and there was no one around ! Hard to find dry firewood, so bring your own is my suggestion. Beautiful place and perfect location to camp before a day at Yellowstone!

6. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Dispersed Site in Bridger Teton National Forest FR 30160

Address
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.81969, -110.373748
Elevation: 7058′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and 1-10 miles depending on the site miles from a paved road.

Best Review:

Stayed here for 2 nights. Got there right around sunset and drove pretty far up the road to check out all the spots. As far as I can tell there are only 3 or 4 spots with views of the Tetons, and they fill up quick. My second night I was able to snag one and it was great! ATT service was pretty spotty. I mostly didn’t have service except for rare spots where I would have 1 or 2 bars of 3G. This site is super close to the Tetons, so it’s a great place to stay while visiting the park!

7. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Leidy Lake Access

Address
Forest Road 30250
Jackson, Wyoming
GPS: 43.718971, -110.376462
Elevation: 8734′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed campsite. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

Very rough and often washed out road. No trailers! Very active grizzly bear area. Don’t mean to scare you, but take “precautions”!

8. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Teton Canyon

Address
Alta, Wyoming
GPS: 43.755969, -110.964317
Elevation: 6796′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. Teton Canyon is open Late Spring to Mid- Fall. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Teton Canyon. Dispersed free camping off of Teton Canyon Road along Teton Creek near Alta, Wyoming. Teton canyon road is off the road that goes to Grand Targhee Ski Resort.

Best Review:

Some nice tucked away sites along Teton Creek. The further you go down Teton Canyon Road, the better. There is a heard of cows that roams the area, and they can get pretty loud at times. It’s easily passable in a sedan. Some of the pullouts are a little rough, so just make sure you give them a quick look before pulling down one. I had no problem finding a site on a Monday and Wednesday night. The trailhead is fairly popular for how remote it is, so you’ll be hearing cars/trucks pull down Teton Canyon Road quite often. No views from the sites themselves, but there is a solid viewpoint up the hill with cell service, as well.

9. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – National Elk Refuge – Flat Creek Rd.

Address
675 E. Broadway, 83001
Kelly, Wyoming
GPS: 43.55771, -110.61991
Elevation: 6837′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is 4×4. National Elk Refuge – Flat Creek Rd. is open May – November. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at National Elk Refuge – Flat Creek Rd.

Best Review:

Great campsite if others nearby are full. Arrived to where the coordinates are to find many cars parked camping in a little parking area, but if you keep going on the road there are 8 or so campsites down a 4WD dirt road. And the first campsite there was no one there and we arrived at around 11 PM.

10. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Gros Ventre, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton NP

Address
Gros Ventre River Road
Kelly, Wyoming
GPS: 43.609901, -110.430893
Elevation: 7037′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

The road in is Gravel and 2 to 30 miles from a paved road. Gros Ventre, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton NP is open June -Oct. There are 30 or more campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days, but Ck locally at Gros Ventre, Jackson Hole, Grand Teton NP.

Best Review:

There are some terrific, pure boondocking location back the Gros Ventre Road just east of Grand Teton Natl. Park. (Locally pronounced: “Grow Vaunt”) One of the most beautiful roads in all of Wyoming, which penetrates some 30 miles into the wilds! It is a destination unto itself! It is not a place to stay for day trips back to Grand Teton/Yellowstone Nat’l Parks.

The road is well-maintained gravel, with some wash boarding, and a bit of a drive to get back to the National Park or the town of Jackson. Although the road is well traveled there are NO SERVICES! You are in wild Wyoming! A favorite boondocking area by Jackson Hole residents and ranchers! Slide Lake, the Gros Ventre River and Crystal Creek have good trout fishing. There are lots of OHV trails and pure wilderness access! Hiking is just plain terrific! This is all US Forest Svc public land with the exception of some well marked private ranches.

11. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Darby Canyon

Address
Alta, Wyoming
GPS: 43.67912, -110.987642
Elevation: 6883′

Management: Forest Service

Best Review:

Darby canyon has free camping. About 15-20 minutes from Driggs. No amenities. Some cowpies, which is a downer depending on the site. Totally legit though as long as you have less than twenty people and some other restrictions. Stream nearby. The wind cave and some awesome views are a bit further up the Darby Canyon Trail. Flat ground. Pretty good time. Dispersed camping is allowed through most of the Jedidiah Smith Wilderness with some exceptions as posted, just so you know.

12. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Curtis Canyon (dispersed camping)

Address
Curtis Canyon Road
Jackson, Wyoming
GPS: 43.514127, -110.660247
Elevation: 6991′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet. You may stay 5 nights at Curtis Canyon (dispersed camping).

Best Review:

This campsite is basically a moderately-sized flat open area with firepits that is sandwiched in between two officially marked (and paid) campsites in the area. There were about 3 other cars and an RV camped out there when we stayed. Beautiful views of the Tetons. About 30 minutes from Jackson Hole. You drive through the Elk Refuge and up a dirt road to get to the site. If all the sites are taken, the official Curtis Canyon campground and one other camping area are right next to it. You can also continue up Sheep Creek Road and find a ton of other free campsites.

6 Alternative Paid Campsites $5 to $10 Per Night

These campsites do charge a small fee but do offer more services than the boondocking sites above. For many they may want to exchange the comforts of a paid site over the scenery and solitude of a boondocking site.

1. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Pacific Creek near Grand Teton NP

Address
Pacific Creek Rd trail head
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.940651, -110.44162
Elevation: 7022′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

The road in is Gravel. Pacific Creek near Grand Teton NP is open Early June – Late Sept weather permitting. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Pacific Creek near Grand Teton NP. Located 11½ miles east of Highway 89/287 on Pacific Creek Road. No services. A hosted Forest Svc campground @ $5/night.

Amenities

Fire Ring
Horse Corral
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

Have stayed here a few times, most recently the week before the 4th of July. The campsites are very large and decently easy to access, the road is unpaved/dirt most of the way but not rough at all- I was able to drive it in a Honda Fit without concern. There’s no service at any of the sites, but there is a few miles up the road. There are bear boxes at every site and no fire rings but it was easy to gather rocks and make my own ring. The creek was gorgeous, and the site is located right within the park so very convenient- probably 20-30 minutes from Jackson Lake Lodge. I went at 9am and had my choice of almost any site.

2. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Teton Canyon Campground

Address
Alta, Wyoming
GPS: 43.756678, -110.918455

Management: Forest Service

The price is $12/night

Best Review:

The pay campground was very nice and each site had a table, fire ring and (my personal favorite) bear box. Plenty of flat space to put a tent. The only con of the paid site was that there were tons of trailers around and one of them decided to run a generator all the time which doesn’t really seem like camping to me.

We strolled in without a reservation on a Thursday evening and got lucky enough to get the very last spot. We wanted to stay in the pay site so we could get up early to do the Alaska Basin hike as an out-and-back. If I were to do this again, I’d plan a bit further in advance so I could have the campsite reserved since it does seem pretty popular.

3. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Hatchet Campground Bridger-Teton National Forest

Address
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.824106, -110.356137
Elevation: 6880′

Management: Forest Service

The price is $10/night. Clean bathroom, nice campground.

Best Review:

We got the last spot that would handle our 19′ Jayco. Wouldn’t suggest this place if you are any bigger as sites are on the small side. Stayed one night

4. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Box Creek

Address
Forest Road 30070
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.860728, -110.294461
Elevation: 7093′

Management: Forest Service

The price is $10/night. Box Creek is open Jun-Sep. The maximum RV length at Box Creek is 30 feet. This campsite is located within the Bridger-Teton National Forest’s Blackrock Ranger District. This is a high elevation location.

Best Review:

None

5. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Sheffield Creek, Yellowstone South Entrance

Address
J D Rockefeller Pkway
Flag Ranch, Wyoming
GPS: 44.092087, -110.663567
Elevation: 6900′

Management: Forest Service (USDA)

This is a PAY campground. ($12 or less). The road in is Gravel and 1 miles from a paved road. Sheffield Creek, Yellowstone South Entrance is open Late May to Late Sept Weather Permitting. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

I loved this place! Stayed there summer of 2022. There is a stream to drive across and I was concerned about whether I should try it and ultimately did. Turned out to be easy but your mileage may vary depending on how fast the stream is running. Great hiking trail. Campsites spaced far apart. Mosquitoes sometimes a problem, sometimes not. Close to south entrance of Yellowstone. Campfire ok when I was there.

6. Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites – Turpin Meadow

Address
Forest Road 30066A
Moran, Wyoming
GPS: 43.854984, -110.262928
Elevation: 6946′

Management: Forest Service

The price is $10/night. Turpin Meadow is open May-Sep. This free campsite is part of the Blackrock Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and about 10 minute drive from U.S Hwy 26 on Buffalo Valley Road (then about 100 yards on a dirt road). You can stay at this site location for up to 16 days.

Amenities

Drinking Water
Restrooms

Best Review:

This an awesome secluded spot right off the road in route to Turpin Meadows campground (which is paid camping). There are other campsites along the road but you will more than likely have neighbors parked right next to you. This location will give you privacy without the road traffic or neighbors parked near you. You can stay at this site location for up to 16 days. There is a designated fire pit and the site overlooks the Buffalo Fork River. With a short walk you are able to see the Grand Tetons from the site. We were woke up by bugling Elk one of the mornings we stayed and saw a about 30 head coming into camp another night across the river. You will pass by many a handful of ranches in route to this location. We would have stayed longer as the site is absolutely beautiful overloading the valley There is no Verizon cell phone service at this location or other amenities.

Top Trails to Hike at the Grand Teton National Park National Park

The Grand Teton National Park features numerous hiking trails with some taking a few minutes while others can take the whole day and night to cover.

1. Phelps Lake Trail

1. Phelps Lake Trail - Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites

This trail is located southwest of Moose Entrance. Phelps Lake is a popular feature of the Death Canyon Trail. It will take about 4 miles of trail to circle Phelps Lake completely. There are alternative routes such as a trail system that leads you to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve. Phelps Lake trail can extend into an entire day’s adventure.

Length: 7.0 mi
Elevation gain: 725 ft
Route type: Loop

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Lake, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

2. Paintbrush Canyon Trail and Paintbrush Divide

2. Paintbrush Canyon Trail and Paintbrush Divide Grand Teton National Park Free Campsites

Starting with the String Lake Trailhead, this trail gives an entire palette of color and amazing mountain surroundings. This trail is about seven miles with much to view. This trail is tough, a steep hike to test your legs since by every step you make, you gain elevation.

Length: 20.6 mi
Elevation gain: 5,643 ft
Route type: Loop

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Beach, Forest, Lake, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

3. Cascade Canyon Trail and Lake Solitude

3. Cascade Canyon Trail and Lake Solitude - grand teton national park

The Cascade Canyon is accessible either by hiking around Jenny Lake or via the Jenny Lake ferry that takes you across every fifteen minutes. A journey through this trail is rewarded with the beautiful shores of Lake Solitude. This trail climbs up to 2300 feet. It is about nine miles.

Length: 9.1 mi
Elevation gain: 1,102 ft
Route type: Out & back

Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, Forest, Lake, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee, No dogs

4. Death Canyon Trail

4. Death Canyon Trail - grand teton national park

This trail features abundant wildlife sightings, craggy surroundings, and wildflowers. This trail is very steep climbing up to 2000 feet in just 4 miles. In the end, you reach the Static Peak Divide junction.

Length: 18.7 mi
Elevation gain: 3,792 ft
Route type: Out & back

Hiking, Bird watching, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Costs and Camping For the Grand Teton National Park

The Grand Teton National park charges a 7-day entrance permit. For a private vehicle, you pay $35 for 7days, private non-commercial vehicle. If you visit with your motorcycle, you pay $30 for 7 days per motorcycle. A hiker/biker pays $20 for 7 days per hiker/biker. Children below 16 years enter for free.

If you visit the park with a commercial vehicle, the charges are based on the seating capacity of your vehicle. For a seating capacity of 1-6, the charges are an extra $15 per person, 7-15 is $125 and 16-25 is$200 while for 26+ the charges are $300.

How to Get To the Grand Teton National Park National Park

If you are coming from far, fly to the Jackson Hole Airport which is the closest airport followed by the Idaho Falls Regional Airport. From the airport, there is a scheduled private shuttle or you can hire a car, taxi, or Uber. The park has three official entrances: the Moose entrance if you are coming from Jackson and the Moran entrance for tourists coming from Denver. If you are coming from Yellowstone, there is no official entrance so you can just drive straight into the park.

Why Visit the Grand Teton National Park National Park?

You will find few landscapes in the world that are interesting, striking, and memorable as the Grand Teton National Park. This national park has so much to offer including valleys, rivers, mountains, wildlife, wildflowers, skies, abundant flowers, and anything else that interests you. On top of that, the Grand Teton National Park boasts a rich cultural history including old homesteads and cattle ranches. Walk on the trails that were built by the Civilians Conservations Corps. These are just a few things you will enjoy in this park thus an incredible way to spend your holiday.

Things to Do at the Big Grand Teton National Park

For lasting memories at the Grand Teton National Park, ensure you visit the following areas and enjoy the different beauty scenery each one hast to offer:

1. Wildlife viewing

Wildlife viewing at the Grand Teton National Park is at times considered the best. The wildlife is diverse including creatures and animals such as Moose, Bears, Eagles, Bison, and Pronghorn. The best place to see bears changes with time and the best option is to enquire about it at the visitors center once you are in the park. However, some of the best spots to view wildlife include Elk Ranch, Oxbow Bend Moose, and Lake Lodge.

2. Horseback rides

Spend some time in the morning and the afternoon in the Grand Teton National Park horse riding and enjoy the views just like the early explorers. Horse riding offers you two hours of scenic rides where you enjoy the views of the Oxbow Bend, Tetons, and the Snake River.

3. Sailing On the Snake River

Enjoy these scenes with a knowledgeable guide who will share knowledge of history, geology, and wildlife. They will answer any questions you have regarding the Grand Teton National Park.

4. Hiking

The famous short hikes are Leigh Lake, Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, Swan and Heron Pond, and String lake. If you are looking for a more challenging full-day hike, choose the Death Canyon, Cascade Canyon, or Paintbrush Canyon and enjoy the towering granite peaks as also, the beautiful remote lakes.

5. Fishing

Whether you are looking for lake fishing or fly fishing, you will find them In the Grand Teton National Park. Fishing in the Snake River or the Jenny Lake Jackson is amazing and you will not forget about it.

How Much Time Do You Need For Your Visit

If you just want to discover the Teton chain and see the different viewpoints on the lake including a short walk, a whole day will be enough. If you enjoy nature and wish to hike, at least two days to enjoy everything. However, keep in mind that the hikes are many with varying durations. Therefore, consider your program. If you want to see the wildlife, be present at dawn and at dusk to maximize your chances. Therefore, the least you can do at the Grand Teton National Park is spending a night.

Accommodations and Dining Near the Grand Teton National Park National Park

Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson town provide numerous places for accommodation, The accommodation here ranges from first-class lodging to budget-friendly accommodations. There are luxury hotels such as Four Seasons Resort located in Teton near Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, mid-range hotels including Cowboy Village Resort, and budget hotels such as the Super 8 Driggs.

Best Time to Visit the Grand Teton National Park National Park

The best time to visit the Grand Teton National Park is between mid-May and late September. During this time, all the hiking trails, visitor centers, and other park activities such as fishing and kayaking are open and easy to access. By the start of October, winter blows, shutting most of the facilities and roads.

What to Pack For Your Visit To the Grand Teton National Park National Park

If you wish to have a memorable experience at the Grand Teton National Park, the following items are essential for your trip:
– Camera
– Food and snacks
– Sunglasses, a hat to protect you from sunburn and sun cream
– Clothing and footwear: Carry light clothes for hiking and enough layers in case the temperatures get too cold at night.
– Water bottles for hydration whether experiencing the tough trails.
– Hiking shoes and a first aid kid due to possible injuries.

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July 12, 2022 0 comments

Mount Rainier with brook flowing over rocks in foreground - Boondockers Choices

Travel Washington Boondocking Boondocking National Park Boondocking

28 Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 11, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Boondockers welcome for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking. Information provided on 28 dispersed camping sites. Save money & get a national park pass.

What to Expect When You Visit Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a unique and beautiful destination. This fantastic park is considered one of the unique and beautiful places in Washington State and the world. This beautiful park is the 5th oldest National park in the United States. What makes this park unique and renowned is its glacier-capped volcano at its center. Additionally, Mount Rainier National Park rises 14,410 feet above sea level. There are some fantastic and gorgeous attractions and destinations inside Mount Rainier National Park that visiting and seeing will make your trip memorable. Here are the reasons why you should never miss visiting Mount Rainier National Park during your trip to Washington.

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Wildflowers: There are more than 100 flower species that grow and bloom in Mount Rainier National Park. These flowers provide beautiful and unique scenery in the Park. Some of the flower species in this park include avalanche lilies, western spring beauties, pink mountain heather, showy sedge, and yellow monkeyflower. These flowers are some of the natural things that make this park spectacular and colorful.

Alpine Lakes: There are multiple lovely alpine lakes in Mount Rainier National Park. The lakes have crystal clear water and gorgeous sceneries. These alpine lakes are great places to take photos and relax on a warm day.

Glaciers: Due to climatic changes, the number of glaciers is reducing at a high-speed rate. There are few parks and places in the world with glaciers, and Mount Rainier National Park is one. During your visit to Washington, you should visit Mount Rainier National Park to have spectacular views of these fantastic glaciers.

Waterfalls: Mount Rainier National Park is home to multiple waterfalls that you will get a chance to see during your visit. Some of the waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park are Myrtle Falls, Comet Falls, Narada Falls, and Christine Falls.

Experience Paradise: Paradise is an attraction located along the southern face of Mount Rainier at an altitude of 5,400 feet. Visiting Paradise during your trip to Mount Rainier National Park will provide you with stunning views of the surrounding areas. Besides, there are several trails around Paradise for hiking.

Hiking, Camping, and Backpacking: Mount Rainier National Park has multiple excellent trails that you can use to hike when there. The trails in this park can also be used for cross-country skiing and sledding in winter. Additionally, there are several spots in Mount Rainier National Park that you can pitch your tent for an incredible outdoor expedition.

Photography: Mount Rainier National Park has some of the unique and stunning sceneries perfect for taking photos. There are more than 300 crystal clear subalpine lakes with beautiful sceneries that you can visit to catch a dramatic reflection on a calm day. Additionally, there are beautiful wildflowers that grow in Mount Rainier National Park. When the flowers bloom, especially in spring, you can visit to take photos.

Scenic Drive: There are several roads in Mount Rainier National Park that you can drive while having spectacular views of the attractions along the road. Some of the roads in Mount Rainier National Park are Paradise Road, Stevens Canyon Road and 123, Sunrise Road, and Mowich Lake Road.

Animals: Mount Rainier National Park is home to multiple species of wildlife that you will be able to see. There are more than 65 mammal species, 14 amphibians, five reptile species, over 182 species of birds, and more than 14 species of native fish that you will see during your visit.

History of Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park’s creation began a very long time ago. In 1792, when Captain George Vancouver observed this mountain while surveying, he decided to name it after his friend Rear Admiral Peter Rainier. After the mountain started to form due to a volcanic eruption more than half a million years ago. In 1893, the Pacific Forest Reserve was created, and Mount Rainier was included. In 1897, the park was enlarged and renamed Mount Rainier Forest Reserve. In March 1899, Congress passed a bill authorizing Mount Rainier National Park, and President William McKinley signed the passed bill making this National park the 5th National park in the United States.

Mount Rainier National Park Free Camping Spots

28 Locations in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Areas

1. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Mt Rainier National Forest Road

Address
Ashford, Washington
GPS: 46.734734, -121.906716
Elevation: 2064′

Management: Forest Service

Mt Rainier national forest road is open spring-fall. You may stay 14 days at Mt Rainier national forest road.

Best Review:

Amazing site! Beautiful mossy green scenery with easy access pullouts. We found our spot at around 5pm on a Tuesday and saw plenty of sites available. River for water access although we didn’t use it. Felt very safe and had Verizon service. About an hour from Mt. Rainier which is where we spent the days. Totally worth the drive for the beautiful free site.

2. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Carbon River

Address
NFD 7810 Rd
Buckley, Washington
GPS: 46.999821, -121.916245
Elevation: 1828′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. The maximum RV length at Carbon River is 30′. Located in the Snoqualmie National Forest on a ridge over looking the Carbon River and Mount Rainier National Park.

Best Review:

Once you cross the bridge, the road turns to dirt and there are HUGE potholes. I wouldn’t bring a big rig out there. Anyway, I was looking to rent camp, but the site is now full of shotgun shells and two shot up rusted out vehicles. A small camper or pickup camper could stay here, but I would only crash here for one night. Like the prior poster said, there are much prettier, better dispersed camping site along the river before you cross the bridge and get to this location.

3. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Forest Route 73

Address
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.008844, -121.617311
Elevation: 2905′

Management: Forest Service

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. There are plenty of spots all along route 73. We took a spot right by a nice creek

Best Review:

There are lots of potholes on the road so be careful driving. The campsites are very nice and in a gorgeous spot surrounded by thick forest but unfortunately littered with trash. I stayed at two different sites in the area on two consecutive nights and both had trash all over them, which I attempted to clean up the best I could. This is a great area to stay if you plan on visiting Mt. Mount Rainier National Park as it is right nearby.

4. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Summit Creek (Hike-In)

ddress
National Forest Development Road 4510
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.710398, -121.536702
Elevation: 2352′

Management: Forest Service

Summit Creek (Hike-In) is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Summit Creek (Hike-In).

Best Review:

The forest service has removed all facilities and closed the road. Hike-In. Enjoy what they’ve left behind! Summit Creek Campground is a small, rustic site located on a small flat between Summit Creek and Forest Road 4510 in a mid-elevation stand of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar.

5. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Skate Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 52
Packwood, Washington
GPS: 46.63837, -121.71165
Elevation: 1568′

Management: State Park

This is for free dispersed camping. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Perfect place for all recreational fun. All along the road is pull offs with nice campsites with a fire pit in 80% of them. Super beautiful view, I stayed by the river.

Best Review:

Skate Creek Road is pretty busy so I headed up NF 5270 and there were plenty of spots up there too. These are all basically spots right on the side of the road. Road is in good shape. A big rig would find a spot on Skate Creek but not 5270.

6. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – 15 Miles: – Packwood WA NF

Address
Packwood, Washington
GPS: 46.63448, -121.679917
Elevation: 1430′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel. National forest camping. This dispersed camping spot is at the end of a road that that appears to have been a rock quarry at one time and is still used as a shotgun range at times.

Best Review:

Large flat areas for tent camping and RVs. Sadly, locals leave a bit if trash around, mostly spent shotgun shells and aluminum cans. Just a few minutes drive off Hwy 12 near Packwood, WA. Not far off the busy forest service road 52/Skate Creek Rd. One lane gravel road but easily navigated in my van. Large open area with many dispersed camping spots to park or set up a tent. Quiet and peaceful. No toilets or other facilities that we found along the forest road.

7. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Fire Service Roads Outside Greenwater

Address
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.067265, -121.594166
Elevation: 2264′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 1 mile miles from a paved road. There are 30 or more dispersed camping sites at this location. You may stay 14 days at fire service roads outside Greenwater.

Amenities:

Fire Ring

Best Review:

Looking for the camp spot that is close to a swimming area. I have been camping on 73 a few times with my older kids and the river we camped next to is not kid friendly. Anyone know of the best spots on which road is close to or on a small river or creek that little kids can enjoy the water?

8. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Pyramid Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 110
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.113467, -121.457646
Elevation: 2700′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed campsite. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

9. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Bevin Lake Rest Area

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.55278, -121.73637
Elevation: 988′

Management: DOT Rest Area

The road in is Paved. Bevin Lake Rest Area is open year round. The maximum RV length at Bevin Lake Rest Area is unlimited. You may stay 8 hours at Bevin Lake Rest Area.

Best Review:

Off Rt. 12, about 15 miles outside of Randle. Not much in the area. Signs say, “please limit your stay to 8 hours” and there is plenty of RV parking for any size rig. Rt 12 did not have a lot of truck traffic, so it was pretty quiet. Best of all, it was pretty flat, which can be rare at rest areas. Nice shaded picnic area with tables. It was my favorite rest ever.

10. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Bumping River Road (NF-1800)

Address
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.836358, -121.304171
Elevation: 3570′

Management: Forest Service

There’s numerous free national forest campsites along Bumping River Road (NF-1800). Some are on the way down to Bumping lake, and some are just past (south) of the lake. Most of them are right off the road, but the ones past Bumping Lake are off a gravel road.

Best Review:

A great place to camp but starting to get overcrowded. Beautiful river and local scenery. The lake and its surroundings is just as beautiful. NOTE: As of 2020, the U.S. Forest Service is threatening to shut down the free camping at sites along the river. Campers have been leaving garbage, toilet paper and feces in the sites. (They don’t even bother digging a hole.) The messes are left near the river, too. There’s fishing in the river and in the lake.

11. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Pyramid Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 110
Enumclaw, Washington
GPS: 47.113467, -121.457646
Elevation: 2700′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed camping site. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

12. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Chambers Lake

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.465948, -121.531648
Elevation: 4522′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Gravel and 17 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 dispersed camping sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 35 feet.

Best Review:

Decommissioned national forest campground on Chambers Lake. Located near Snowgrass and Berry Patch trailheads, 17 miles from Hwy 12 just east of Randle, WA. Trailheads are very popular access points for the Goat Rocks Wilderness. Campground has approx. 12 sites, with a couple that can accommodate larger RVs (if you’re willing to drive 17 miles down a washboard dirt road).

Stayed here in early August. Were the only people when we arrived mid-afternoon. A couple other sites were occupied overnight. GREAT spot, can’t believe the forest service decommissioned this campground. Vault toilet was clean. Lake is small. Saw a couple people fish briefly and then leave. Some of the sites had established campfire rings, but there was a burn ban in place when we stayed.

13. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – 29 Miles: – Russell Ridge TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 1382
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.664751, -121.205161
Elevation: 4997′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. First come – first served. No reservations accepted.

Best Review:

None

14. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Lost Meadow

Address
National Forest Development Road 19
Naches, Washington
GPS: 47.063022, -121.218978
Elevation: 3064′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

15. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Cash Prairie TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 199
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.715459, -121.165477
Elevation: 6319′

Management: Forest Service

From Naches, WA follow Highway 12 W for 21.6 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 1500. Continue on Road 1500 for about 9 miles. Turn left onto spur Road 199 and go 2.1 miles to end of road to Cash Prairie Trailhead for dispersed camping sites.

Activities:

Hiking
Horse Trails

Best Review:

None

16. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Greenhorn Creek

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.433576, -121.940737

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. Greenhorn creek is open Year round if you can get up there in winter. There are 1-5 dispersed camping sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 2 weeks at Greenhorn Creek. 3 spots along the Greenhorn Creek that are shaded and hearing the creek 24/7 is a bonus.

Best Review:

All the Greenhorn Creek Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking spots could fit a 24 foot RV but tents, pop up trailers, Class B’s would fit fine. Bigger RV-s might have trouble getting into two of the spots. There is a larger spot that would make good use of a group camping and a Class A might get into that spot also. Road is rough coming from Forest Rd 25, but the approach is much better coming from Forest Rd 23 / tower rock.
46.433576, -121.940737

17. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Willow Tree TH

Address
National Forest Development Road 1362
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.673119, -121.167519
Elevation: 3829′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. No reservations. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

18. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – 31 Miles: – Iron Creek Dispersed Campsite

Address
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.427984, -121.98043
Elevation: 1189′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. Iron Creek Dispersed Camping site is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 7 days at Iron Creek Dispersed Campsite.

Best Review:

This area is just beyond the pay-for Iron Creek campsite. Go down past the official campsite on US Forest Service road towards Mt. St. Helens. Approximately 1/4 mile past the pay campsite there is the Iron Creek Picnic area on the left. Turn down that road and go about a 1/2 mile (~100 yds) past the picnic area. You’ll come to a narrow bridge. The turn off for the site is immediately to the left before the tiny bridge. It’s a short yet steep dip down into the site so I wouldn’t recommend any small cars or RVs/pull- campers. There are 3 stone fire rings and very decently sized tent sites. Very minimal traffic and 6 miles away from Randle/ 25 mi from Mt. St. Helens. No services. Pack it out. Super awesome spot next to a creek. Overall highly recommended.

19. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Little Naches

Address
FS19 (Little Naches Rd.)
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.996178, -121.109421
Elevation: 2628′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Paved. Little Naches is open Year round depending on snow. The maximum RV length at Little Naches is None.

Best Review:

Located along FS19 (Little Naches Rd.) west of Naches. This area has two FS campgrounds for fee parking however free dispersed camping sites abound all along FS19 and up the side roads in the area. During summer this is a favorite area for Jeeps, ATVs and motorcycles, however usually during mid week there is very little traffic and the area is quite peaceful.

20. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Boulder Cave Sno-Park

Address
3208-3302 National Forest Development Road 1704
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.951965, -121.079766
Elevation: 2457′

Management: State Park

This is a free dispersed camping site. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served.

Best Review:

None

21. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping

Address
US 12
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.666047, -121.102512
Elevation: 2613′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 1-2 miles miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 dispersed camping sites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 14 days at South Fork Tieton Dispersed Camping.

Best Review:

This place is amazing! I spent 4 nights at 2 different spots. The first spot I spent here was about 1/4 mile down the road from the entrance. It was along the river but highway 12 was across the way and the road noise was a little disturbing…though not bad. I decided to move the next day and found a spot that was down a super bumpy and rough road that I would only recommend a van or 4wd, though I did see a couple of people go down in their SUV’s. Super peaceful, but very little cell service and the internet was pretty much a big fat nothing.

22. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Milk Pond Campground

Address
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.9872, -121.063
Elevation: 2979′

Management: Forest Service

There are 1-5 dispersed camping sites at this location. Open, can’t park right next to campground but right close.

Best Review:

None

23. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Rimrock Pullout Hwy 12

Address
Goose Prairie, Washington
GPS: 46.67593, -121.06462
Elevation: 2500′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. The maximum RV length at Rimrock pullout Hwy 12 is 25 feet. Not official campsite, more of a pullout right off Hwy 12.

Best Review:

Intermittent road noise, but it mostly dies off after dark. Not sure about legal status, but partially concealed from road. No “NO OVERNIGHT” signs. Good overnight pit stop before sunset, without the hassle of finding/setting up camp. Have stayed here a few times with no hassle. Best part is it’s RIGHT on rivers edge. Good place to launch kayak for down-river pickup.

24. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Nile/Old Sawmill

Address
National Forest Development Road 1611
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.851848, -121.011631
Elevation: 2415′

Management: Forest Service

Free Dispersed camping in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Naches Ranger District. First come – First Camped. Reservations not accepted.

Best Review:

None

25. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Nile Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 1611
Naches, Washington
GPS: 46.851389, -121.00991
Elevation: 2398′

Management: State Park

Free Dispersed camping.. First come – First Camped. Reservations not accepted.

Best Review:

This is a free dispersed camping site. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Nice place to stay for a day or 2. Many spots throughout 410 North into the forest. Close but not too close to a gas station and food joint. Was perfect for my trip from Boise to Seattle. I took 410 North through the forest to Seattle and this is a beautiful drive!

26. Washington Boondocking Welcome in Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking Locations – Orr Creek Sno-Park

Address
National Forest Development Road 5603
Randle, Washington
GPS: 46.350466, -121.597704
Elevation: 2913′

Management: State Park

Free Dispersed camping.. First come – First Camped. Reservations not accepted.

Best Review:

This is a free dispersed camping site. This campsite does not use a reservation system. First come, first served. Good spot, great sun vault toilet. Elk pass through from time to time, have even seen them under my awning!

27. Washington Boondocking Choices for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Quartz Mt

Address
National Forest Development Road 3100
Cle Elum, Washington
GPS: 47.076652, -121.079621
Elevation: 6099′

Management: Forest Service

The maximum RV length at Quartz Mt is 22 feet. This free dispersed camping site is located within the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest’s Cle Elum Ranger District.

Best Review:

28. Washington Boondocking Favorite Locations for Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking – Pull-out on 12

Address
Silver Creek, Washington
GPS: 46.536193, -122.413709
Elevation: 869′

Management: DOT Rest Area

You may stay 8 hours at Pull-out on 12. A pull out with a sign for no camping and no bonfires that also says limit stay to 8 hours.

Best Review:

A good place to just park and sleep in the car/camper/van for a quick stop. No tents. Lots of space to park. State patrol keeps tabs on 8hr rule, portable toilets and fishing access.

Best Family Friendly Hiking Trails at Mount Rainier National Park

Want to find the best trails in Mount Rainier National Park for an adventurous hike or a family trip? There are 151 great hiking trails, biking trails, running trails and more.Explore one of 24 easy hiking trails in Mount Rainier National Park that are great for the whole family. Looking for a more strenuous hike? We’ve got you covered, with trails ranging from 22 to 25,436 feet in elevation gain. Whatever you have planned for the day, you can find the perfect trail for your next trip to Mount Rainier National Park.

1. Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via Skyline Trail – Boondockers Choices

Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via Skyline Trail - Boondockers Choices

Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via Skyline Trail is a 0.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL CLOSURE: This area is subject to seasonal closure due to weather conditions.

Myrtle Falls can be accessed from the Paradise parking area via the Skyline Trail or Golden Gate Trail. This is an asphalt paved trail with a short uphill then stairs to the viewpoint of Myrtle Falls.

Accessibility: There are 6 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Paradise Road East at the south end of the trail. All of them are van-accessible with striped access aisles. The trail surface is paved asphalt and smooth. It is typically at least 4 feet wide.

The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the moderately steep (5-8%) grade category and the steepest sections are at about 0.2-0.4 miles when going northeast. Trail goers using wheelchairs/mobility equipment or strollers may need assistance along this entire route due to the consistent sections above a 5% grade (especially if using manual equipment). There is a boardwalk viewing platform that crosses over the top of the Falls. There is a staircase near the Falls.

Length: 0.8 mi
Elevation gain: 150 feet
Route type: Out & back

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Hiking, Snowshoeing, Walking, Running, Forest, Paved, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

2. Silver Forest Trail – Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking

Silver Forest Trail - Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking

Silver Forest Trail is a 1.9 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Greenwater, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and nature trips and is best used from July until September. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Sunrise Road, which leads to this trailhead, is subject to seasonal closure.

Length: 1.9 mi
Elevation gain: 200 feet
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Running, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

3. Nisqually Vista Trail – Boondockers Favorite Location

Nisqually Vista Trail - Boondockers Favorite Locations

Nisqually Vista Trail is a 1.1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and snowshoeing and is best used from June until October. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL ROAD CLOSURE: Roads leading to this trailhead are subject to seasonal closure from November to mid-April.

This family-friendly trail features beautiful views of Nisqually Glacier with a short walk to the Jackson Visitor Center. You may encounter snow through June and July. No pets are allowed.

Accessibility: There are 8 designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Paradise Valley Road at the southeast end of the trail. All of them are van-accessible with striped access aisles. The upper parking lot has ramp access to the trail. The trail surface is paved asphalt and smooth. It is typically at least 6 feet wide.

The most accessible portion of the trail is the first about 0.2 miles. The majority of the trail is estimated to be in the moderately steep (5-8%) grade category. Trail goers using wheelchairs/mobility equipment or strollers may need assistance along this entire route due to the consistent sections above a 5% grade (especially if using manual equipment). There are snowdrifts in the winter on the trail which may make it impossible to use mobility equipment at these points. According to the park website, this trail is suitable for strollers.

Length: 1.1 mi
Elevation gain: 180 feet
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Hiking, Snowshoeing, Walking, Forest, Paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

4. Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail – Boondockers Choices

Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail - Boondockers Choices

Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail is a 1.1 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking and camping and is best used from May until September. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

SEASONAL CLOSURE: This area is subject to seasonal closure due to weather conditions.

The Grove of the Patriarchs is a 1.1-mile round-trip, self-guided nature trail through a wonderland of old growth trees and a bustling forest floor! Wander through trails, boardwalks, bridges, and dirt paths while winding through centuries old trees. The Patriarchs, Douglas Firs, and the Big Cedar stunning examples of healthy tree found in this area. Isolated on the island, these giants have been protected from fire, allowing them to grow to enormous size. You have many trees that are more than 25 ft in circumference, at least one approaching 50 ft, and some over 1,000 years old.

In late summer and early fall, there are plenty of mushrooms, with coral tooth fungus, boletes, jellies, and many more in the area. The easy nature trail through 1000 year old huge old growth Cedar, and Douglas fir trees at Mt. Rainier National Park.

The Ohanapecosh River surrounds an island of towering, thousand-year-old Douglas fir and western red cedar trees. Walk the trail to discover the grandeur and peace of this island.

Length: 1.1 mi
Elevation gain: 52 feet
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Camping, Hiking, Forest, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

5. Narada Falls – Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking

Narada Falls Trail - Mount Rainier National Park Boondocking

Narada Falls is a 0.3 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Paradise Inn, Washington that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running and is best used from July until October. Absolutely beautiful waterfall. It’s a short walk downhill from the parking lot, which means it is uphill on the way back. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are per vehicle or per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, horse, or bike the fee is per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass.

Absolutely beautiful waterfall. It’s a short walk downhill from the parking lot, which means it is uphill on the way back. You can view the falls from the upper pullout if you aren’t able to do the trail.

Paradise is one mile northeast of the trailhead. This is the largest waterfall viewable by car in the park at 150 feet. Architecture in the park such as the bridge was designed in the 1900s. For a longer trip, you can connect to the Wonderland Trail to the south.

Length: 0.3 mi
Elevation gain: 72 feet
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Running, Forest, River, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

Places to See and Things to Do in Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a vast attraction that covers approximately 956.6 square kilometers. Inside this 956.6 square kilometer National park, there are multiple places to visit and several things to see and do. Here are the best places and things to do and see in Mount Rainier National Park.

Paradise. Paradise is one of the most beautiful destinations in Mount Rainier National Park. During your visit to Paradise, which is located at an altitude of 5,400 feet, you will be able to have spectacular views of the park and its surrounding areas. Additionally, visiting Paradise during the summer, you will find wildflowers along the slopes and trails that will provide you with gorgeous views and sceneries for taking photos. There are multiple trails around Paradise that you can use to hike while Mount Rainier National Park boondocking.

See Wildlife. Mount Rainier National Park is home to multiple animal species that you will see during your visit. During your Mount Rainier National Park boondocking visit, you will be able to come across animals such as mountain goats, elk, and bears. There are various species of reptiles, such as the common Garter Snake, Northwestern Garter Snake, and Rubber Boa, plus many more. Additionally, there are bird species in Mount Rainier National Park that you will be able to see as you enjoy birdwatching. The common bird species found in Mount Rainier National Park are Birds of Prey (Eagles, Hawks, & Owls), Bluebirds, Robins, & Thrushes, Chickadees, Kinglets, & Wrens, Hummingbirds, Larks & Pipits, Grouse and many more. The fish species you can see are Bull Trout, Cutthroat, rainbow trout, Puget sound steelhead trout, pink salmon, chinook salmon, eastern brook trout, kokanee salmon, mountain whitefish, coho salmon, and many more.

Trails. There are several trails in Mount Rainier National Park. You can visit this National park to hike, ski, sled, or do other outdoor activities in the multiple trails. There are spectacular views or surrounding areas that you will be able to views while hiking along the trails in Mount Rainier National Park. Additionally, there are flowers, plants, and animals along the trails that you will enjoy viewing during your visit. Some of Mount Rainier National Park boondocking trails include Sunrise Nature Trail, Frozen Lake Loop Trail, Sunrise Rim Loop Trail, and many more.

Waterfalls. Mount Rainier National Park is home to several waterfalls that you can visit to enjoy the views of the park and even take photos. You can hike while going to the waterfalls. There are gorgeous wildflowers that grow around the waterfalls that you can admire and take pictures of during your visit. Mount Rainier National Park falls include Narada Falls, Silver Falls, Christine Falls, Myrtle Falls, and many more.

Lakes. There are multiple lakes found in Mount Rainier National Park that you can visit for various activities. Some of the lakes in this park include Reflection lakes, Mowich Lake, Tipsoo Lake, Snow Lake, Eunice Lake, Bench Lake, and many more. These lakes are home to various fish species such as Bull Trout, Cutthroat, rainbow trout, Puget sound steelhead trout, pink salmon, chinook salmon, eastern brook trout, kokanee salmon, mountain whitefish, coho salmon, plus many more. Some of the activities in the lakes in Mount Rainier National Park that you can take part in during your visit include fishing, boating, and kayaking, plus many more. Some of the lakes in Mount Rainier National Park have amazing sceneries that you can visit to take pictures of.

Take Scenic Drive. There are several roads inside Mount Rainier National Park that you can drive while having spectacular views. Some of the roads in Mount Rainier National Park that you will enjoy driving on while having stunning views include the 9-mile stretch Paradise Road, Stevens Canyon Road and 123, Sunrise Road, and Mowich Lake Road, plus many more. These roads lead to various destinations within the park, and along the roads, there are unique and stunning attractions that you will be able to see.

How to Get to Mount Rainier National Park

There are four main entrances accessible by vehicle that you can use to enter Mount Rainier National Park. There are multiple major cities located within 200 miles of Mount Rainier National Park. You can use multiple ways to get to Mount Rainier National Park. If you want to use the Southwest Entrance by car, here are the directions:

East Entrance by car From Seattle: (to White River/ Sunrise/ Ohanapecosh) drive South on I-5 to I-405 at Exit 154a. from there drive East on I-405 to SR 167 and then take South to SR410 where you will find White River Entrance. From there you can continue South on SR 410 to SR 123 past Stevens Canyon Road to Ohanapecosh.
From Tacoma: drive east on SR 512 to SR 167 and turn north to SR 410 and then head east while on SR 410 to the White River Entrance and Sunrise.

From Seattle: Drive South on I-5 to SR 512 and exit at 127. From SR 512 drive East to SR 7 and then drive South on SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe. From here drive East on SR 706 through Ashford where you will find the Nisqually Entrance. From Tacoma: Drive East on SR 512 to Sr 7 and then turn South from SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe. Once you are in SR 706, drive East through Ashford where you will find Nisqually Entrance.

From Yakima: in Summer; Drive West on US 12 to SR 123 and then turn North while on SR 123 to the Stevens Canyon Entrance.
In Winter; Drive on US 12 to SR 7in Morton. While still on SR 7, drive North to Elbe. From there drive East on SR 706 through Ashford where the Nisqually Entrance is located.

From Portland: drive North on I-5 to Hwy 12(Exit 68) and then drive East while still on Hwy 12 to SR 7 in Morton and then turn North on SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe where you will find the Nisqually Entrance. Direction From Northwest Entrance by Car. This entrance is open year-round and you can access it using SR 165 through Wilkeson to Carbon River. The Carbon River is located 5.5 miles east of Mowich Lake at SR165 in the junction.

From Yakima: drive west on Hwy 12 to SR 410 and the turn west along SR410 over Chinook and Cayuse Passes to the White River Entrance.
To Ohanapecosh: drive west on US 12 to SR 123 and then turn right while on SR 123 and travel north into Mount Rainier National Park. There are signs that will lead you to Ohanapecosh.

From Portland: drive north on I-5 to SR 512 and then turn east to SR 167 in exit 135 and again drive east to SR 410. While on SR 410 drive east again to Mount Rainier National Park and White River and Sunrise area. to Ohanapecosh; drive north on I-5 to US 12 and take Exit 68 to SR 123 and drive north. Continue travelling north on SR 123 to Mount Rainier National Park and Ohanapecosh area.

Paid Accommodations and Places to Eat Near Mount Rainier National Park

During your visit to Mount Rainier National Park, here are some of the accommodations and dining that you can relax, sleep and dine in;

• Nisqually Lodge
• Crest Trail Lodge
• Seasons Motel
• Blackberry Bunkhouse
• Paradise Inn
• National Park Inn
• Paradise Village Hotel and Restaurant
• Crystal Mountain Resort

What to Pack for Your Visit to Mount Rainier National Park

Here is the gear that you should carry with you while going to visit Mount Rainier, National Park.

Rain jacket. It may rain suddenly, and it depends on which season you are visiting Mount Rainier, National Park. This gear will help protect you From downpours.

Park map. You should download an offline map or carry the map of the park with you to help in direction purposes and prevent you From getting lost.

Sturdy, hard-soled Water shoes. There are a lot of glaciers, and the surfaces along the trails may be slippery. The boots should have traction and be comfortable for easy movement on various surfaces.

Binoculars. You will use this gear in sightseeing and view hard-to-reach attractions.

Water bottles. You will use it to carry water to keep yourself hydrated during your outdoor expeditions.

Bug spray. There may be insects such as mosquitoes, and a bud spray will aid in combatting them.

Headlamp. For easy visibility and to allow you to see at night.

Sunglass and sun hat. You will use them to protect yourself From the sun during the expedition.

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July 11, 2022 0 comments

Travel Florida Boondocking Boondocking National Park Boondocking

15 Everglades National Park Free Campsites in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 11, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

We have chosen 15 Everglades National Park Free Campsites for you, boondocking and free camping is difficult in the sunshine state but not impossible.

Everglades National Park is found in the southern part of Florida. It serves as a home of various prevalent species such as the American crocodile, Florida panther, and, not to forget, the manatee. This park offers a good mixture of luxury and wilderness.

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The prime reason why you should visit Everglades National Park is due to the exceptional encounter you will get, as well as unparalleled comfort. So if you are preparing to go for a Boondocking trip, Everglades is the place to be.

Slogging and hiking are the most predominant activities that take place in Everglades National Park. However, the real fun begins after you hit the water. Fascinating right? Considering that most of the park is only reachable through a boat; fishing, canoeing, boating, and kayaking are the common recreations in this park. And this makes it ideal for boondocks like yourself.

History of Everglades National Park

Everglades National Par is one of the oldest parks in its category. It was approved back in 1934; however, due to the constraints of getting land, it wasn’t formal until 1947. This large National park is the center of attraction for thousands of visitors owing to its outdoor adventure activities.

Everglades National Park has various visitor centers with an expected rich history. However, it’s mostly popular with canoeing devotees as private companies provide boat tours in some park segments.

Off late, it measures 6,105 square kilometers, and this is part of Florida Bay. The park secures a perfect blend of temperature, freshwater, marine habitats, and other useful things. So give this park a visit and bid goodbye to the unbearable destinations.

Free Campsites for Everglades National Park

15 Everglades Free Camping Sites

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1. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Clubhouse Beach

Address
Florida
GPS: 25.1292, -81.03889

Management: National Park Service

This is a FREE campsite. A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.

Best Review:

Trail Length: 7.5 miles (12 km) one way Wheelchair Accessible: No Bicycles Allowed: No Trail Description: Step back in time as you walk this old road once used by cotton pickers and fishermen. Open prairies of succulent coastal plants dotted with shady buttonwoods surround you as you journey towards the shore of Florida Bay. The trail ends at Clubhouse Beach; a permit for backcountry camping required. Directions to Trail: Begins at the rear of Loop “C” of the Flamingo Campground.

2. Everglades National Park Free Camping – Cracker Barrel Homestead

Address
GPS: 25.449475, -80.476034
Get Directions

Management: Retail Store

Admin Note:

While our focus is boondocking and free camping, we also list and utilize overnight RV parking locations. If you are unfamiliar with the concept, it might seem strange to run across rest areas, truck stops, and Walmart parking lots in a camping directory. However, for some RV users, it is how they get from one location to the another.

Most parking lots are completely empty at night and many travelers do not need the amenities of an RV park. They just want a couple hours of shut eye before hitting the road again. A place to park is all they need.

Best Review:

Home sweet home! Great place to stay for day trips to the keys or Miami. It’s…a parking lot. But if you go in expecting that you’ll find you’ve struck gold.

3. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Home Depot Homestead

Address
Homestead, Florida
GPS: 25.459627, -80.472708
Elevation: 7′

Management: Retail Store

The road in is Paved. Home Depot is open year round. The maximum RV length at Home Depot is unlimited. You may stay 48 hours at Home Depot.

Admin Note:

Best Review:

Home Depot allows RVs to park for up to 48 hours. Level lot, well lit, quiet.

4. Everglades National Park Free Camping – BJ’s Wholesale Club – Homestead

Address
Homestead, Florida
GPS: 25.462181, -80.46711
Elevation: 5′

Management: Retail Store

Admin Note:

Best Review:

Just left here, stayed over night to sleep, saw a class c parked, so I parked and slept. Had no issues, you can hear the morning traffic get going, other than that no complaints. Simple, safe overnight stay.

5. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Exxon

Address
19900 SW 177th Ave
Miami, Florida
GPS: 25.580924, -80.479188
Elevation: 7′

Management: Gas station

Gas station that allows overnight parking. Call ahead to verify. They can fill or exchange propane tanks.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

It’s OK for a one-night stay, as there are no other options for a free stay in the area. We slept in our passenger car(Saturn Vue). Parked between two big semis, so it gave us some sense of privacy and less light. Cuban restaurant is equipped with bright lights, pointed towards parking.

6. Everglades National Park Free Camping – Miccosuke Resort and Casino

Address
500 SW 177th Ave
Miami, Florida
GPS: 25.764204, -80.483975
Elevation: 13′

Management: Casino

Register for PERMIT in Casino. The road in is Paved. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 5 days at Miccosuke Resort and Casino.

Best Review:

Nice parking lot in the casino. Indian reservation so they have private police and security, nice small casino with huge bingo room, good buffet with deals, great bar with cheap drinks. You must register your rv at the security desk and get an orange permit, they’ll let you stay quite a few days with registration for free. There are trash cans in the parking lot but if they are full they ask you to pack it out.

7. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Bass Pro Miami

Address
Miami, Florida
GPS: 25.789478, -80.383701
Elevation: 7′

Management: Retail Store

This is a FREE campsite. Per management overnight is ok. He knew of no local ordinances prohibiting. There is security and they will contact you.

Best Review:

Bass Pro Shop management said we could stay no problem. Security officer said it’s ok too. Seems to be allowed until midnight.

8. Everglades National Park Free Camping – Empty Lot/area along to SR. 41

Address
Naples, Florida
GPS: 25.910786, -81.365099
Elevation: 7′

Management: Unknown

The lot is just empty unpaved area along SR 41. It is large enough for large RVs. You may stay overnight at Empty Lot/area along to SR. 41.

Best Review:

There is a large empty lot/area next to a Marathon Gas station at the intersection of SR. 41 and SR 29. I spent a night over there and nobody bothered me. There is nothing else around – forest and bushes for miles so I doubt anyone will care if you are here. The gas station has a subway inside; they both are closed at night. This place is OK for overnight RV parking. Not good for tents.

9. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Snake Road Truck Stop

Address
Ochopee, Florida
GPS: 26.175043, -80.855192
Elevation: 13′

Management: Truck Stop

Graveled areas to North and South of gas station. Some large pot-holed but we found a level area to park.

Amenities:

Restrooms
Showers

Best Review:

They have the biggest gator that ever can see .. yes they are all over .. be very very carful!!!!

10. Everglades National Park Free Camping – Rotenberger WMA – Powerline Levee

Address
Huff Bridge Road
Belle Glade, Florida
GPS: 26.33764, -80.844048
Elevation: 66′

Management: Fish and Wildlife

This is a free dispersed campsite. No reservations. First come, first served. This location is at low elevation

Best Review:

Do not come here. This is now a waste water plant. There is a gate that blocks the road.

11. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Rotenberger WMA – Miami Canal

Address
Miami Canal Road
Belle Glade, Florida
GPS: 26.378342, -80.798348
Elevation: 98′

Management: Fish and Wildlife

This is a free dispersed campsite. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. This location is at low elevation.

Best Review:

DO not go here. It took me down a dirt road that was only for commercial vehicles. The stars are beautiful back here but I doubt I was allowed to be here. They had a locked gate up once I already drove down a 10 mile rocky dirt road. I camped here in my Jeep , so it was good in a pinch but I def would not do it again. Just a heads up….

12. Everglades National Park Free Camping – Seminole Casino

Address
Immokalee, Florida
GPS: 26.41049, -81.41623
Elevation: 33′

Management: Casino

A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite. The price is Free. Must register with the security desk inside the casino.

Best Review:

3 nights free in the parking lot. There is a row of parking for RVs in the back lot that can fit about 8-10 rigs. Elec hookups are spread intermittently along the row. Share with your neighbor.

13. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Dinner Island WMA

Address
17665 County Road 833
Clewiston, Florida
GPS: 26.499657, -81.130686
Elevation: 36′

Management: Fish and Wildlife

Camp year-round at one of the two designated camping areas. Kowechobe Camp is an open field with easy access for trailers. Hammock Camp is located under an oak hammock with plenty of shade and a vault toilet. You will need to bring your own water.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

Hammock camp, and kowechobe really need separate listing. Hammock camp is looks more like a homeless camp, with sites uncomfortably close together. Kowechobe is an open field with spacious sites. We reserved Hammock camp, but when we got here we turned around and went to kowechobe. 2 stars for Hammock, 4 stars for kowechobe. There isn’t trash service at either. Only Hammock camp has a toilet. No resources here, but Verizon has 3 bars. Nice green grass, here for 8 days. If you don’t like boondocking this isn’t for you.

14. Everglades National Park Free Camping – CREW Cypress Dome Trails (Gate 5)

Address
3980 Corkscrew Road (C.R. 850)
Immokalee, Florida
GPS: 26.456392, -81.562752
Elevation: 26′

Management: Fish and Wildlife

The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. CREW Cypress Dome Trails (Gate 5) is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Travel I-75 to exit 123 (Corkscrew Road). Go 14 miles east on Corkscrew Road. The Cypress Dome Trails will be on your right just past a big curve to the north. Look for the brown trailhead signs.

Amenities:

BBQ Grill
Fire Ring
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

Main gate was closed when I showed up, but when you enter there’s a main gate to the left of the kiosk where you can walk through with your gear. Camping is still available according to the Billboard, but you’re supposed to have an SUL -Special Use License (www.sfwmd.gov/SUL). Area looks nice and maintained! This is a tent area only.

15. Everglades National Park Free Campsites – Jones/Hungryland WEA

Address
Indiantown, Florida
GPS: 26.995125, -80.275158

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

Jones/Hungryland WEA is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Jones/Hungryland WEA.

Amenities:

ADA accessible
Restrooms

Best Review:

We were pleasantly surprised with this campsite. There are 5 spots, though sites A&B and C&D are basically the same sites. The only site that is on its own is site E. We stayed in site D for one night and had the space to ourselves (I think we were the only people in the whole campground). The spots are not big enough for a traditional RV but our van camper fit just fine. There is a bathroom available at the entrance, though we didn’t use it. I do highly recommend using the directions on the reservation website rather than the link here, it takes you right to the entrance rather than a random point near it.

7 Everglades Paid/Permit Camping Sites

All sites are under $10 per night and in most cases 50% off for seniors.

1. Everglades National Park Permit Camping – Bear Island Campground BCNP

Address
Naples, Florida
GPS: 25.990221, -81.503876
Elevation: 4′

Management: State Forest

$10 per night. $5 per night with a Senior or Access Pass.
The road in is Dirt. Bear Island Campground BCNP is open year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location. You may stay – January 1 to April 30, 10 days maximum – May 1 to December 31, 14 days maximum at Bear Island Campground BCNP.

Best Review:

Primitive campground with no water. Vault toilets available. Forty designated sites. Access to the Bear Island Campground is at the end of a 20-mile secondary gravel road. Located nearby are Gator Head (9 sites) and Pink Jeep (9 sites) Campgrounds. The maximum length of stay for any camping activity within the national preserve is 180 days in a 12-month period.

2. Everglades National Park Permit Camping – Bear Island Campground BCNP

Address
Ochopee, Florida
GPS: 26.183499, -81.24756
Elevation: 14′

Management: National Park Service

$10 per night/$5 with a Senior or Access Pass. The road in is Dirt. Bear Island Campground BCNP is open year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location. You may stay – January 1 to April 30, 10 days maximum – May 1 to December 31, 14 days maximum at Bear Island Campground BCNP.

Best Review:

Beautiful camping area with trash removal and privvies. The grass is mowed and the sites are well maintained. The long (20 mile) trek up a dirt road scares many people off so it is fairly quiet. Sites 13+ are more private and surrounded by palm trees. Other RV’ers said they filled up with water and used the dump facilities at the more developed NPS campground off Route 41 for free. I loaded up on food and water at Naples before heading here. Worth $10/night, even better with a Pass at $5/night. The best thing is it is right in ‘Alligator Alley’ and the sides of the dirt road are covered in alligators in the afternoon. Best time I’ve had in years!

3. Everglades National Park Permit Camping Sites – Gator Head Campground BCNP

Address
The Loop
Ochopee, Florida
GPS: 26.22388, -81.267688
Elevation: 14′

Management: National Park Service

Campsite $10 per night / $5 with Senior or Access Pass. The road in is 4×4. Gator Head Campground BCNP is open August 29 through June 01. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay – January 1 to April 30, 10 days maximum – May 1 to December 31, 14 days maximum at Gator Head Campground BCNP.

Amenities:

Restrooms

Best Review:

This OHV campground is located inside of Big Cypress National Preserve. 4×4 and an OHV sticker are required. This is a primitive campground, which contains nine campsites. No water. Vault toilets are available.

4. Everglades National Park Permit Camping – Picayune Strand SF – Miller CG

Address
56th Avenue Southeast
Naples, Florida
GPS: 26.133191, -81.561599
Elevation: 118′

Management: State Park

The price is $5/night. This location is at low elevation.

Best Review:

Open area not much shade. They are set up quite nicely for the equestrian campers, lots of trails around.

5. Everglades National Park Permit Camping Sites – Picayune Strand SF – Northwest CG

Address
Everglades Parkway
Naples, Florida
GPS: 26.148412, -81.64806
Elevation: 141′

Management: State Park

The price is $5/night. This location is at low elevation.

Best Review:

None

6. Everglades National Park Permit Camping – Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest

Address
Wild Cow Grade Road
Felda, Florida
GPS: 26.532276, -81.294205
Elevation: 29′

Management: State Forest

Primitive Sites $10.00/night. The road in is Gravel and 5 miles from a paved road. The maximum RV length at Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest is any. Located approximately thirty miles east of Fort Myers, in southeastern Hendry and northeastern Collier counties, the forest can be accessed along CR 832, marked by the various self-service pay stations. Dumpster and portajohns provided. No water or electric. The first camping area is on Panther Pond. The second area has room for larger rigs.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

Nice site. Good size. Good privacy. For shade use #3 or 8. Good pit. Clean. Great night sky. Quiet. It’s a bit wet still from the rainy season but not too buggy for September. I wish the reception was better since I only have one bar and I wouldn’t use the Porto-potty but there’s a dumpster which is in good condition.

7. Everglades Permit Camping Sites – JW Corbett WMA

Address
Hwy 710
Indiantown, Florida
GPS: 26.943571, -80.355209
Elevation: 34′

Management: Fish and Wildlife Service

The road in is Gravel and depends miles from a paved road. JW Corbett WMA is open Year-round. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. You may stay variable at JW Corbett WMA

Best Review:

None

Top Trails to Hike At the Everglades National Park

Even though Everglades National Park is known to be a marshy area, there are still some areas of the park that you can explore through some activities like hiking. Through hiking, you get to analyze various habitats. Catch a glimpse of some of the top trails to hike in this park.

1. Anhinga Trail

1. Anhinga Trail - everglades national park free campsites

Awesome wildlife trail. Saw 3 gators, 2 of them which swam right up to where we were on the boardwalk and then swam right under us. We also saw turtles, medium size fish, and so many birds. An excellent trail for wildlife viewing and seeing some of the beautiful and diverse landscape of the Everglades.

Length: 0.2 mi
Elevation gain: 0 ft
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Bugs, Fee, No dogs

2. Shark Valley Tram Trail

2. Shark Valley Tram Trail - everglades national park free camping

Have to pay to enter and the pass is good for a week. Great easy flat road trail. At mile 7 there’s an observation tower with a bathroom and water fountain. 15.8 miles is 15.8 miles. I hope you don’t get tired half way. Saw over 12 gators on the side of the trail. Some of them hide as you pass by. Nice place for bird watching. We saw multiple birds I had never seen. It’s a bit of a drive to get to the park.

Length: 15.8 mi
Elevation gain: 22 ft
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Hiking, Road biking, Walking, Running, Paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No shade, Fee, No dogs

3. Gumbo Limbo Trail

3. Gumbo Limbo Trail - Everglades national park permit camping

Nice trail through the dense forests on Royal Palm Hammock (island) that sits in the swamps of the Everglades. I recommend doing both the Anhinga Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail together as they showcase 2 completely different ecosystems. Very nice trail and easy for anybody to walk.

Length: 0.5 mi
Elevation gain: 0 ft
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Walking, Bird watching, Lake, Paved, Views, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

4. Mahogany Hammock Trail

Loved the giant mahogany trees full of air plants. the board walk trail is well maintained and feels very different than the rest of the park. saw some egrets and heron at the trail start. went twice but never saw the famous owls.

Length: 0.4 mi
Elevation gain: 0 ft
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

5. Pay-Hay-Okee Overlook

Not a big boardwalk, but it does provide a nice raised view of the river of grass. Especially nice during sunrise. If you’re lucky you might have an owl appear close by, and there are plenty of other birds to see.

Length: 0.2 mi
Elevation gain: 0 ft
Route type: Loop

Wheelchair friendly, Kid friendly, Stroller friendly, Walking, Bird watching, Forest, Paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Bugs, Fee, No dogs

These are the best destinations primarily for hikers who love to strike out on their own. However, as an essential rule, be cautious when hiking as you are more likely to fall into deep waters due to unpredictable conditions.

Cost for Paid Camping for Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park provides you with all that you need to fulfill your requisites. Even better, the price is overly affordable and friendly to all who seek to visit. The entrance fee per person is around $25, and that of a car is $35.

Let’s now delve into some of the campgrounds available where you can do your Boondocking.

Flamingo campground

Flamingo offers stunning campgrounds and countless recreational activities, plus perfect views. Of course, people like the view of exotic wildlife and birds. Also, you will be delighted with other useful activities like camping, launch ramps, boat slips, and so much more.

Long Pine Key campground

Enjoy a wonderful stay at this camp. The staff is friendly, and you get access to see the stunning sunset and all other nearby attractions. The nights here are quiet and comfy, plus you can come along with your firewood, set up the fire, and feel the warmth within the place.

That’s not all but a few of the campgrounds you can access while at the Everglades National Park.

Places and Things to See

Whenever you want to encounter amazing attractions worldwide, Everglades National Park is no exception. Book earlier for a closer view of the attractions there.

The top-notch attractions in this park include;

Shark Valley
Anhinga Trail
Ernest F. Visitor Centre
Royal Palm Visitor Centre
HM69 Nike Missile Base
Flamingo
Nine Mile Pond Canoe Trail
Flamingo Visitor Centre
Mahogany Hammock
Gumbo Limbo Trail

Long Pine Key, and so much more to mention.

The You Have to DO

Cruise, Hike, and Airboat.

Plunge deep into the Everglades National Park and search for birds, dolphins, and manatees courtesy of the island boat trip. Thereafter, go on an airboat to catch a glimpse of alligators and move under vast cypress trees with ease. What’s even better? Lunch is part of the package.

Fishing and Tours.

As spoke of earlier, Everglades National Park is mostly surrounded by water. So as you adventure the place, you are more likely to engage in fishing amid a tour. If essential, come with fishing equipment to further sweeten the deal.

If that’s not sufficient, you also have the latitude to go many day trips, hiking trails, golf tours, and tee times.

How Much Time Is Needed to Visit the Everglades

Before visiting this large National Park, ensure that you have a concrete plan. On average, eight days is enough to maneuver the entire park. And this will create a world of difference from your previous encounter with vacations.

Housing and Dining Near Everglades National Park

Find out all the dishes and lodgings available near the park before your visit. There are merely 164 hotels within this great National Park. All bookings are made online. The most popular ones are;

Spring hill suites.
Home2 suites.
Towne Place Suites Miami Kendall West.
Candlewood suites.
Hampton Inn and so much more.

Best Time to Visit Everglades National Park

Are you wondering about the most suitable time to visit Everglades National Park? Worry not; this article is here to sort your demands.

The ecosystem in this park is ever welcoming whenever you visit. However, there are a few changes you need to focus on before visiting the place.

The best time to reach Everglades Park is between November to March. That’s because many animals are active during this period, and most adventurous tourists will have escaped the cold from the northern region to come and experience the warm climate. So be sure that this will be the busiest time to visit the place.

Essential things to carry as you visit Everglades National Park

The following list encompasses the essentials needed when you plan to visit Everglades National Park. These things will make your trip safer and Intriguing.

Hiking shoes
Snacks
Umbrella and rain jacket
Hat
Sunglasses
Long pants
Sunscreen
Clean water

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July 11, 2022 0 comments

Travel California Boondocking National Park Boondocking

27 Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 11, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Much of Joshua Tree National Park is open for free camping, but it comes with some rules and limitations. Free camping inside Joshua Tree National Park actually does exist. But it’s not a practical opportunity for RV owners. Much of Joshua Tree National Park is open for free camping, but it comes with some rules and limitations.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to California?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

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History of Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park sits on 794,000 acres of land and was named after Joshua shrubs (Yucca brevifolia), natural to the Mojave Desert. In 1936, it was declared a national memorial and later remodeled as a countrywide park in 1994. This happened after the passing of the California Desert Protection Act by the U.S Congress. Joshua tree only grows in the Mojave Desert and elevations from 1300 to 5900 ft. above sea level. This species of tree was encountered by Mormon pioneers in the mid-1800s and was named after Joshua, a Biblical character, because he raised hands to the sky for a prayer.

Joshua Tree

27 Free Boondocking and Camping Locations

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1. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – South Entrance of Joshua Tree N.P.

Address
Cottonwood Springs Road
Indio, California
GPS: 33.674534, -115.802651
Elevation: 1781′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Gravel and 1mile miles from a paved road. South Entrance of Joshua Tree N.P. is open Year Round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Unlimited. You may stay 14 days at South Entrance of Joshua Tree N.P.

Best Review:

We stayed here for four days back in January and had a good time. If you’ve been to Joshua Tree NP, you probably know the most beautiful part is the northwest side. This is a good spot to camp, especially for the price, but if you are looking for good cell reception and amenities nearby, I would recommend heading towards the north entrance. The nearest town and what we could get for service is 25+ minutes away. Definitely be careful because the soil is extremely sandy and although we did not get stuck, I think it would be very easy

2. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Spotlight 29 Casino

Address
Coachella, California
GPS: 33.71265, -116.18404
Elevation: -33′

Management: Casino

The road in is Paved. The maximum RV length at Spotlight 29 Casino is unlimited. We’ve boondocked here on about 3 different occasions. Safe and well lit. Always several RVs with slides and jack’s out. Easy access to interstate.

Best Review:

We had tried to find a boondocking spot in Borrego Springs, but it was very popular this weekend and we did not come up with a spot. Rather than just heading home we decided to stay overnight at Spotlight 29 Casino and it was very nice. Super Clean, nice restaurants and safe well lit parking. We had a nice nights rest!

3. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Fantasy Springs Casino

Address
Indio, California
GPS: 33.721199, -116.193552
Elevation: -30′

Management: Casino

RV friendly, dirt pack, dry camp.

Best Review:

Fantasy Springs Casino is now closed to RV dry camping, I’ve stayed here during the winter over the past several years but the lot is now empty and a new gate has been installed and locked closed. I have not talked to anyone working at the casino but I’m assuming this is permanent. The nearby Spotlight 29 Casino (not shown on this site) has also changed, any size RV can park here but there is a 24 hour limit.

4. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Painted Canyon

Address
Mecca, California
GPS: 33.619301, -116.000076
Elevation: 593′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Dirt and <5 miles from a paved road. Painted Canyon is open All Seasons, Use caution during and after rains, as this road is a wash.. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Any. You may stay 14 Days at Painted Canyon.

Best Review:

What an awesome site! You’ve have to stay for at least two nights. I arrived on a Friday morning. Only a few people were there. Lots of people on the weekend, but very few campers. I was one of the only motorhomes for the three days I was there. Tough road, but doable. Took me about an hour in, 45 minutes out. Just take your time. I’d also recommend looking up the weather. I was glad to have a completely dry weekend, but I could see how things get ugly quickly! Also no Verizon signal, so prepare to enjoy life off grid.

5. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Chiriaco Summit

Address
Chiriaco Summit, California
GPS: 33.663864, -115.723976
Elevation: 1716′

Management: Private Owner

The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. A free dry camping area behind the General Patton Museum. No facilities at campsites.

Best Review:

We stayed here 2/25/22. It was a nice large camground. The park host was nice and met us as we drove in. He recommended spots for our 40 ft. Class A. All spots are back in. The narrow road to the campground behind the museum was a little tight for our big rig – good thing nobody was coming from the other way. We parked our rig and took our car up to Joshua Tree NP for the afternoon. It was easy to get there from Chiriaco Summit (next exit).

6. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Box Canyon West

Box Canyon West

Address
Box Canyon Rd
Mecca, California
GPS: 33.586845, -115.977158
Elevation: 256′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Paved. Box Canyon West is open year-round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Any. You may stay 14 at Box Canyon West.

Best Review:

Lots of room for boondocking all along Box Canyon Rd. Very neat area. We parked in the shade of a cliff. Looks kind of like you are on the moon. A very unique landscape (see area description below). At twilight there were lots of bats flying around. There’s a little bit of trash in the area. Box Canyon road itself is paved but the camping areas are located a few hundred feet off road. Sand can be loose. We didn’t need 4×4, but you need to look before you leap. There are plenty of roads to explore if you do have 4×4.

7. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Colorado Desert (Overland Near Box Canyon)

Address
Desert Camp, California
GPS: 33.57944, -115.97251
Elevation: 315′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is 4×4 and .75 miles from a paved road. Colorado Desert (overland near Box Canyon) is open Year round!. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 at Colorado Desert (overland near Box Canyon).

Best Review:

4×4 suggested, this is Public Lands camping allows 24 days within 100 yards of a road. There’s a couple ways to get to here spots, but I stayed out there for 2 weeks and only saw 2 people, beautiful views, great cell service, Sandy ground, got here in a 4×4 dodge Dakota without hitting the bottoms.

8. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – North Joshua Tree BLM

Address
Joshua Tree, California
GPS: 34.172932, -116.224663
Elevation: 2359′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Dirt and 3 miles from a paved road. North Joshua Tree BLM is open Year Round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Any. You may stay 14 Nights at North Joshua Tree BLM.

Best Review:

Big open flat area. Appears to be a dry lake bed. People were playing with remote controlled planes for a couple of hours. Other than that, very quiet. The access road was somewhat bumpy and washboard.

We camped here for four days or so in early February. The road in is rough, so drive slow. Drive in on Sunflower Rd – you might be thinking WTF but this is the best road. Once you get to Cascade Rd, hang a left and you’ll see a giant, wide open, level area where you can go as close or far away from peeps as your lil heart desires. Gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Quiet and peaceful.

9. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Drop 31 Boondocking

Address
Mecca, California
GPS: 33.534068, -115.91114
Elevation: 75′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is 4×4. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Free dispersed camping on BLM land. I was told about this area by a BLM ranger. 4×4 may be required.

Best Review:

Kind of a soft sandy road to get back here, so 4 wheel drive is probably necessary. An area of low rolling hills/box canyons, covered in wildflowers at the time of my visit…so it smelled amazing, nothing like the Salton Sea! A girlfriend and I camped here in our 4Runners, and didn’t see or hear anyone all night. Some amount of trash on the ground from previous off-roaders, but as this was a Wednesday, we weren’t disturbed by anyone. Plenty of flat sandy ground for tent camping as well.

10. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Dos Palmas Spring Road

Address
Mecca, California
GPS: 33.515705, -115.886958
Elevation: 30′

Management: Private Owner

The road in is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay a couple of days at Dos Palmas Spring Road.

Best Review:

Desert boondocking. This free camping area is privately owned but the owner is OK with people camping on it for a few days. At least that’s what the local BLM ranger told me. There is quite a bit of OHV activity here. Decent ATT and Verizon cellular data signals.

11. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Red Cloud

Address
Desert Center, California
GPS: 33.676528, -115.562132
Elevation: 1404′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Dirt. There are 16-29 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. Flat. Off I-10, BLM land . No Water Easy access so take plenty with you.

Best Review:

No idea where the campsites are but the giant gravel pullout that the coordinates took us to was great. Walked the BLM land in a 5 mi triangle following powerlines. The road are very smooth but soft sand. If you do not ha e experience in deep sand, stay at the pull out. If someone knows the coordinates of the sights, please post for everyone else.

12. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Bradshaw Trail

Address
Summit Road
Indo, California
GPS: 33.506019, -115.765908
Elevation: 75′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is 4×4. This is the starting point of the 70 mile trail that runs to Highway 78. There are numerous free, dispersed camping locations along it. 4×4 is required to traverse it.

Best Review:

None

13. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Walmart Store 29 Palms

Address
58501 Twenty Nine Palms
Yucca Valley, California
GPS: 34.134063, -116.383405
Elevation: 3202′

Management: Retail Store

Wal-Mart parking lot. Overnight RV parking. They have an arcade, I spoke with them and OK’d for one night. Verizon 4 bars.

Best Review:

Stayed here for one night in a 19 foot rv with no problems at all. Very safe. I did go in and ask if it would be okay for a night. The girl on custom service rang the manager and he said it was fine but they took no responsibility which was fine. Would stay again.

14. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Bradshaw Trail RRX

Address
MM 3 Bradshaw Trail
California
GPS: 33.512466, -115.71183
Elevation: 571′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is Gravel and 15 miles from a paved road. Bradshaw Trail RRX is open all year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at Bradshaw Trail RRX.

Best Review:

This campsite is located about 3.2m down the Bradshaw Trail. The road up to this point was graded and easy. This is the only location where we received cellular signal on the trail. The camping area is flat and open. There is a makeshift fire ring. It is just past a defunct railroad crossing.

15. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Bradshaw Trail Palo

Address
California
GPS: 33.558964, -115.604996
Elevation: 1414′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Another nice free camping area along the Bradshaw Trail.

Best Review:

None

16. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Garnet Ave

Address
Desert Hot Springs, California
GPS: 33.901338, -116.540235
Elevation: 709′

Management: Unknown

Not sure who owns this area but it’s not managed. Saw some people who look like they’ve been here a long time. Stayed bout a month.

Best Review:

Nothing fancy but a good spot to get off the road if it’s crazy windy. This is a dead end road off I 10. I drove to the end and it looks like the locals use it to dump old mattresses and trash. There are places that look like you could pull up and park off road but it’s very soft and sandy so I turned around and drove up about an eighth of a mile from the intersection and parked on the right side of the road. There is a nice view of the snowcapped mountains and a boatload of windmills. Stayed one night.

17. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Santa Rosa Yellow Post Sites

Address
Forest Road 7S02
Palm Desert, California
GPS: 33.537651, -116.459053
Elevation: 7902′

Management: Forest Service

There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 nights at Santa Rosa Yellow Post Sites.

Best Review:

Free, primitive in isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Fourteen sites that are no more than a clearing with a fire ring near Idyllwild in the San Bernardino National Forest. You wont find any drinking water, toilets, or trash cans here. You need to bring everything you need with you, and you need to take every bit of it with you when you leave.

18. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Palm Beach Dry Camp

Address
2880 Crystal Lake Ave
Salton City, California
GPS: 33.332247, -115.950422
Elevation: -223′

Management: City Park

This camping area is in a Thermal city park. This location is at low elevation. It has been reported that this is not an established campground with fees. If you visit this location, please leave a review with the price and details.

Best Review:

None

19. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Truckhaven Wash SVRA

Address
Thermal, California
GPS: 33.30716, -115.98565
Elevation: -56′

Management: State Park

The road in is Dirt. Truckhaven Wash SVRA is open 365. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 30/yr at Truckhaven Wash SVRA.

Best Review:

This is part of the Ocotillo Wells State Vehicle Recreation Area. Free camping for 30 days per year. Open desert, no services. Good antenna TV, and Sensorly says 4G ATT, Sprint, T-Mobile, & Verizon.

20. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Whitewater Rest Area

Address
Whitewater, California
GPS: 33.921524, -116.663883

Management: Rest Area

The road in is Paved. Whitewater rest area is open Year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited.

Best Review:

None

21. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Snow Creek Canyon Rd Highway 111 Gravel Wash

Address
Whitewater, California
GPS: 33.9106, -116.6666
Elevation: 1165′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Off highway 111 east. Snow creek canyon Rd gravel pull off. Large flat area but very soft sand. Would only recommend 4wd vehicle.

Best Review:

None

22. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Niland Boat Ramp

Address
Frink, California
GPS: 33.339745, -115.666512
Elevation: -228′

Management: Country Park

The road in is Dirt and 1.5 miles from a paved road. Niland Boat Ramp is open Year-round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location. Campground with six campsites near Thomas Mountain in California’s San Bernardino National Forest.

Best Review:

Viewing nearby Slab City and history of Salton Sea. Drove down to see closed Imperial County park and spent a few nights. Peacefully relaxing. Trains rumbling by miles away and military jets training g at southern end closer to thermal plants & San Diego. Plenty of space to spread out & not crowd neighbor.

23. Joshua Tree National Park Free Camping – Bradshaw Trail Pad

Address
California
GPS: 33.502316, -115.386353

Management: Bureau of Land Management

The road in is 4×4. Bradshaw Trail Pad is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay 14 days at Bradshaw Trail Pad.

Best Review:

None

24. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Anza Borego Desert – Truckhaven Hills

Address
Borrego Salton Sea Way
Thermal, California
GPS: 33.278973, -116.058337
Elevation: 397′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a California State Park located within the Colorado Desert of southern California, United States. The park takes its name from 18th century Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza.

Best Review:

This area is HUGE, the views are amazing and it’s free! Visited this site on a week day and was not bothered by anyone. A good place to park for the night or a few days. Not far off the road, but we could barely hear anything.

Had one 4-wheeler drive by but it didn’t bother us. The ground is rocky so if you plan on staying here with a tent, make sure you have a nice sleeping pad. There are a few pit toilet scattered throughout the SRVA area, but we were not close to one.

25. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Coachwhip Canyon

Address
Borrego Springs, California
GPS: 33.29174, -116.14828
Elevation: 1007′

Management: State Park

The road in is Dirt. Coachwhip Canyon is open Year-round, but it is a wash so be careful if there’s storms nearby!. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

It is by far the best place I have Boondocked. It’s shields you from the road noise and wind as it is behind big rocks. No one around for miles for three out of the four days I was there.
It’s in a canyon, and apparently it goes quite away up, however, this is not for 2wd. The one other camper got stuck and they had a van. You need 4wd.

There are three turn outs right up against the cliff rocks.You probably could go further up the canyon but because of the soft sand, I stayed close to the entrance. If you don’t want a ton of people or noise from the constant ATVs. this little hidden gem is the place to be.

26. Joshua Tree National Park Boondocking – Arroyo Salado Primitive Campground

Address
Borrego Salton Seaway
Salton City, California
GPS: 33.279865, -116.145386
Elevation: 827′

Management: State Park

The road in is Dirt and 0.2 miles from a paved road. This free, primitive camping area is located on HWY S22 near the Northeastern entrance to Anza Borrego Desert State Park (about 19 miles east of the Visitor Center. ).

Best Review:

Pit toilet. No garbage services – Pack it in, pack it out! No ground fires. All fires must be in an enclosed metal container that you bring.

27. Joshua Tree National Park Dispersed Camping – Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Sites

Address
FR 6S13/Thomas Mountain Road
Idyllwild, California
GPS: 33.615997, -116.660988
Elevation: 6066′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 nights at Tool Box Springs Yellow Post Sites.

Best Review:

Also known as Thomas Mountain Yellow Post Sites. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, these ten free campsites provide no more than a clearing with a fire ring in isolated scenic locations ideal for tent and car camping or a relaxing picnic far from the crowds. Bring everything you need with you (water, food, etc.) as nothing is provided at this site. Take whatever you brought out with you when you leave.

Top Trails to Hike at Joshua Tree National Park

This park offers different options for its visitors, whether they are looking to go backpacking, hiking, or a nature walk. You can enjoy either a short trekking path or overnight escapade; whatever you choose to do will leave there satisfied.

1. Black Rock Canyon Trail

1 Black Rock Canyon Trail Joshua Tree National Park

Most people consider this to be among the best hikes in this beautiful park. If you love long walks and heights, make sure that you visit their trail for a thrilling experience. Black Pillar Canyon Scene hoop prides itself in having some dense groves of Joshua trees. The course begins and tops on a sandy wash and has all the intersections signed. You will find connectors going back to the nearby Black Rock Campground.

The Canyon narrows after like half a mile. Once you pass the Black Rock Spring, you will be able to find signposts showing where the trail becomes a loop. You will have the chance to see Mount San Jacinto and San Gorgonio as you climb the route. It has large Joshua trees, and you can always take a good photo there.

Great easy incline. I began my hike at the Black Rock campground at dawn. I only did 1 mi in and out but spent a lot of time photos. A lot of Joshua trees and great golden hour lighting with the sun coming over the mountains on the east. The clouds were striking, all in all a great morning. Trails clearly marked. It gets a little bit sandy 3/4 mi into the hike.

Length: 3.0 mi
Elevation gain: 400 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Horseback riding, Bird watching, Running, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Fee, No dogs

2. Barker Dam Nature Trail

2 Barker Dam Nature Trail Joshua Tree National Park

Barker Dam is 1.4 miles long and tends to be among the best day hikes in the park. It offers excellent cultural history and beautiful scenery, which is why people crowd there to the extent that you can hardly get any parking space. It was built more than a century ago; the reason for making it was to offer support to cattle ranching in Joshua Tree National Park. If you visit this trail when the spring is wetter, you will realize that it has a lake behind it.

This is a terrific hike, especially for children to learn about the plants and animals in Joshua Tree National Park. They have markers every so often that showcase the relevant information what you are seeing at that point along the trail.

I was there the end of June so there water at the dam, but it was still worth the walk. It was also really cool to see how lush things were at the dam area after the desert landscape hiking to that point

I would definitely recommend doing this hike if you’re looking for something informative and relatively easy.

Length: 1.3 mi
Elevation gain: 62 ft
Route type: Loop

Kid friendly, Hiking, Nature trips, Walking, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, No shade, Historic site, Fee, No dogs

3. Wall Street Mill

3 Wall Street Mill Joshua Tree National Park

It can be a day hike for anyone who loves history. Make sure that you take your friends and family there because you will learn about the park’s past. The Wall Street Mine was operated by Bill Keys from 1930 to 1960 and used to process gold ore. The miners started by carting ore to the mill’s top. Then, they used stamps to crash it into the sand. They then mixed the sand with mercury and water; knowing that mercury and gold stuck together, they had to use water to wash the worthless gravel away.

When going to this beautiful trail, you should park at the Wall Street Mie parking area off Boulevard Park. Make sure that you do not take anything from there because enjoy will find so many historical artifacts. It would help if you also were careful whenever you come across old buildings because they lack structural stability. You will also see signs indicating areas you can enter and those that you cannot enter.

Simple level climb, however a few areas of sand that is not the most enjoyable part of the trail but it is the desert. Deserted mill, and vehicles are obviously the mill of some sort. Frankly, the factory was somewhat a bit anti-climactic, it’s tiny and difficult to see inside, but still from a time long ago. In case you’re climbing barker dam and have the opportunity I’d do this trail as well. Not marked as well as some so take your GPS.

Length: 2.4 mi
Elevation gain: 88 ft
Route type: Out & back

Kid friendly, Hiking, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Off trail, Fee, No dogs

How to Get to Joshua Tree National Park

If you want to go to Joshua Tree National Park, you should consider doing so by car because that tends to be the best way. It will take you 3hrs to drive from Los Angeles or San Diego to the park. Driving from Phoenix and Death Valley National Park will take you four and half hours, while from Grand Canyon National Park and Yosemite National Park would take 6hrs. Las Vegas and San Francisco will take 4hrs and 8hrs, respectively.

When using a car to access the park, note that the Joshua Tree National Park does not offer any automotive services, and that calls for you to ensure that your gas is complete before entering the park. Moreover, the tires and cooling system should be good. The good thing is that there is a pavement on the main roads, meaning that a two-wheel drive will be good for the main sights. However, it also has rough backroads, and here you will require a four-wheeled vehicle.

The West Entrance is the popular one, and you can access it from Joshua Tree. It tends to be a direct route to Keys View, Hidden Valley, and other attractive destinations on the park’s west side. The North Entrance leads to Pinto Wye, and you can access it from Twenty Nine Palms town. Using this entrance, you can connect to western and central parts of the park or proceed to Cottonwood Springs and the low desert. Form the city of Twenty-nine Palms, the road to 49 Palms leads to a trailhead for a hike at 49 Palms oasis.

You will not be able to connect to the rest of the park if you use this road. The Black Rock Entrance leads to Black Rock Campground and adjacent hiking trails. You can access it from Yucca town, and it does not connect with the roads in the rest of the park. If you are looking for a small visitor center, this is the entrance to use.

If you would like to fly to Joshua tree, you will use Palm Springs International Airport, which is 45 minutes from the park’s headquarters. You can also use Ontario International Airport, which is approximately an hour and a half from the garden. In addition, Burbank, Los Angeles International, and Long Beach Airports are two to three hours away, and you can use them.

Why Visit Joshua Tree National Park

1. The wildlife. Joshua Tree National Park is home to many wildlife. The wildlife has adapted and learned how to survive in a desert. When you visit their beautiful place, you should expect to see scorpions, bighorn sheep, coyotes, rattlesnakes, black-tailed jackrabbits, kangaroo rats, tarantula, non-venomous snakes, lizards, and other animals. Therefore, if you are a lover of animals, this incredible park will be an excellent destination for you.

2. The amazing nighttime. The Joshua tree experiences little pollution means that the sky at night tends to be so beautiful and epic. Most of the people who enjoy stargazing love going to the park for camping and enjoying the stars. Being at the park will give you an unforgettable stargazing experience. You can also have the chance to see shooing starts.

3. The trees. In the 1850s, the Mormons saw the branches of the trees in Joshua’s arms pointing to the Promised Land and named them after him. The trees give a unique and distinctive feel, something that you cannot get anywhere else.

4. The hikes. The west coast has some fantastic treks, and lovers of walks would have a good time.

5. Sunrises and sunsets. If you are looking for an excellent picture for your Instagram, you should visit this park to see the multicolored sky. You can visit to see a sunset, a sunrise, or both and enjoy taking good pictures.

6. The park. It features the lower Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert, two distinct deserts, each ecosystem. The elevation would determine the characteristics of the ecosystem, and it would be a good idea to go and check the deserts. You will have more than 3,000km to explore.

Places and Things to Do and See in Joshua Tree National Park

It does not matter whether you want a place that will offer a sense of peace, an old west-inspired getaway, or a strenuous adventure; you can trust to get everything you want in Joshua Tree National Park. You might be wondering what you can see or do in the park, and we will touch on that in this section.

1. You can walk among cacti in Cholla Cactus Garden. You will experience the best when you visit this cacti grove, which organically exists. It features a 0.25-mile loop, and you will enjoy the dense concentration of the dangerous yet lovely cholla cactus.

2. You can enjoy a kickback to Live Music at Pappy & Harriet’s. Pappy & Harriet Pioneertown Palace is always packed and will offer you a unique experience. It is a musical oasis in the middle of the desert, and everyone deserves to feel the magic of being there. This palace is a part roadhouse, part honky-tonk, and part premier venue and has hosted almost everyone, including Paul McCartney and Vampire Weekend, at the intimate stage.

3. You can relax as you rewind at the Pioneer town Motel. It is a former live-in motion-picture set and was founded by Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. When you visit this motel, you will have the chance to feel its history but in a modern aspect and concept. The rooms look so good, with Aztec blankets, cowhide rugs, and exposed bulbs as part of decorations. With everything looking beautiful, you will find it easier to relax and have a good time.

4. You can have the best time of your life as you experience sunsets at Keys View. It is the highest point in Joshua Tree National Park and features an around-the-clock pleasing view. It will be good to experience the splendor. If the days are clear, you will have the chance to view the Palm Springs, Coachella Valley, and the surrounding peaks spreading to Mexico. When you are at Keys View, sunsets will feature a right orange and blistering red sky.

Joshua Trees national Park red cactus flowers

Paid Accommodations and Dining Near Joshua Tree National Park

If you are looking for a place to stay or dine when you visit the park, here is a list for you.
Accommodation Options

1. Pioneer Town Motel. Here, you should expect to pay around $200 per night.

2. El Rancho Dolores Motel. It is 12.1 miles from the park, and you should expect to pay approximately $85

3. Sure Stay Plus By Best Western Twenty Nine Palms Joshua Tree. It is 9.8 miles from Joshua Tree National Park. $120 is what you will pay for a night. Breakfast is included.

4. High Desert Motel Joshua Tree National Park. It goes for $600 and is 4.5 miles from the park.

5. The Spring Resort & Spa – 15.7 miles away and going for $230 per night, with breakfast included.

6. Fairfield & Suites Twenty Nine Palms – Joshua Tree National Park. It is 10.1 miles from the park, and you should pay $250, inclusive of breakfast.

Joshua Trees national Park johua trees on hiking trail

Dining Options Near the Park

1. Morongo Valley Café. This option offers classic foods like French toast, biscuits, gravy, tuna melts, and rotating soup specials.

2. Frontier Café. If you are a lover of sandwiches and salads, this would be the best option for you. You will find beer, plus wine, and kombucha in addition to the sandwiches and salads.

3. Pizza Pie for the People! Pizza di Circo. After a tiring hike, make sure to visit this place for a delicious pizza. You can get various options for the pizza.

4. Royal Siam Cuisine Thai Restaurant. Even though this restaurant is not as flashy as other options, you can come here for significant portions of pad Thai, pad see ew, poh-tack, and jungle curry.

5. Dillon’s Burgers & Beers. You can trust to get bison burgers, cheeseburgers, chicken burgers, and veggie burgers. They will be serviced with your choice of tater tots, coleslaw, pasta salad, or fries.

What to Pack for Your Visit to Joshua Tree National Park

Water bottle. It would be best if you forgot to carry your water when you go to Joshua Tree National Park. Every person will need at least a gallon of water, especially if the plan is to be at the park for an entire day.

Sunscreen – Since the park is in a desert, it means that the sun is scorching. Despite Joshua trees being tall, they do not offer much shade. Thus, sunscreen will do you good to protect your skin.

Hiking boots – Make sure that you carry closed-toed shoes whenever you are visiting the park. Hiking boots will offer better protection, and you will slip less.

Hat – It should be wide-brimmed so that it can protect the face and neck from the sun.

Sunglasses – They will offer protection to your eyes.

Cooler – If you carry snacks, like fruits, and would like to have them cold, a cooler would be necessary.

Carry a lot of snacks.

Daypack – You can put your items in the pack while you explore the park. You can put snacks, a camera, a water bottle, and other things.

First aid kit – Joshua Tree National Park has so many rocks, and you might hurt yourself. The cacti can also harm you, and that is why a first aid kit would be so crucial.

Everyone deserves to experience the beauty in Joshua Tree National Park. You can plan to visit the park with your family members or friends and create great memories.

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July 11, 2022 0 comments

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18 Boondocking Spots at Acadia National Park in 2024

by John - Laurel Rodgers July 11, 2022

written by John - Laurel Rodgers

Acadia National Park is among the most visited recreation centers in the USA and North America. Statics shows that in 2018 alone, the park received more than 3 million visitors. Other than hiking Cadillac, the highest mountain on the Atlantic coast of the United States, several fascinating sites and activities make it a top priority visit option.

The variety of scenes associated with the park are too plenty to exhaust. It remains one of the places a person may camp for a couple of weeks and never make it possible to go round all the sites. Each day in the arcadia national park provides a new opportunity to come across something new. The receptive nature of the wooded camps around the environment makes each site visit an excellent venture.

The friendly environment around the park allows for a good stay with beautiful meals and drinks available during the night and day. Not forgetting the classical, reliable, and affordable accommodations around the famous national park. In a nutshell, there are more than a thousand reasons why you should visit arcadia national park. The place not only guarantees a relaxed holiday but also a moment of discovery.

Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Acadia National Park?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!

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History of Acadia National Park

Acadia was first founded under the name Sieur de Monts nationwide memorial by then US president Woodrow Wilson in July 1916. The national monument was later upgraded to Lafayette state square in February 1919. Thus, it was the first national park status recreation site East of Mississippi.

In January 1929, the park was officially named Acadia National Park. In the history of forming the Acadia national park, the fantastic vision and contributions of private citizens played an important role. The vision of gallant defenders of the environment such as Charles Elliot and George Dorr, who moved with speed to stop adverse developments at the coastal wonderland, helped build a strong foundation of the park.

The excellent work done by John D. Rockefeller junior of building the current famous carriages and the stone bridges, and, in addition, donating 11000 acres of land. Rockefeller paid close attention to every detail of construction and made sure that the network fitted the natural environment landscape. He did finance the project and kept a record of the essential sites, bridges, and the name of all the laborers. The networks have experienced transformation to modern carriages and replacement of stone bridges to modern constructions. However, the natural landscape as initiated by Rockefeller remains.

There have been other donations and contributions by a private citizens to the improvement of Acadia National Park through well-wishers such as Friends of Acadia National Park. Though the park is littered with good memories, one of the regrettable happenings in the books of history remains the burning of more than 17 acres of land in Mount Desert Island in 1947. The fateful year is referred to as “the year Maine burned.”

In 1986 the Acadia National park acquired small tracts of land and easement to preserve scenic values and define permanent boundaries. Today, it occupies approximately 49000 acres of land divided into three main segments.

The largest tract of land is located on Mount Desert Island. An approximately 2,366 acres of land sits on the Schoodic peninsula northeast of the mainland, and other tracts of land which can only be accessed through a boat are bar island, baker island, and isle au haunt. To improve accessibility and reliability, a major improvement on the carriages and stone bridges was made between 1992 and 1995. The carriages network remains one of the world’s references in national parks and recreation site upgrades

18 Free Boondocking Spots Near Acadia National Park

1. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Lamoine Walmart

Address
17 Myrick St
Ellsworth, Maine
GPS: 44.523424, -68.394007
Elevation: 253′

Management: Retail Store

Walmart super center. 24hrs. Plenty of parking. Trucks and rv’s camping here.

Best Review

Your safest bet for free parking close to Acadia. It’s actually comical how many other RV’S and van’s and skoolies were there. Walmart closes at 10 so get your bathroom work done before then

Stayed here in a 20 foot-long Class B (RV). Eric Van Der Eems would stay here again.

2. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Schoodic Bay – Acadia Area (hike in – boat in)

Address
Sullivan, Maine
GPS: 44.565119, -68.12768
Elevation: 367′

Management: State Park

You may stay 14 days at Schoodic Bay – Acadia area (hike in-boat in). Tenting sites half mile hike or by boat access. There are fire rings, two dump toilets, dogs on leash permitted, boat access.

Best Review:

From Coastal Route 1 take Route 183 (north) until the highway ends and the road changes name to Tunk Lake Rd. Turn left onto Schoodic Beach Rd. This is a gravel road. At the first Y in the road keep left, at subsequent Y’s (I think there are two) keep right. You will come to a trail head and parking lot with a dump toilet. Take the .5 mile easy hike to the lake.

3. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Tunk Lake Area

Address
Cherryfield, Maine
GPS: 44.608675, -68.021493
Elevation: 200′

Management: State Forest

Free camping and boondocking. First come first camped -> No Reservations Accepted

Best Review:

On Hwy 182 north of Franklin is a beautiful stretch of highway with many beautiful lakes. Look for the blue signs. There is a place you can park at the top of a large hill, just a turn out and a little spot in the woods. Will be quiet till the morning traffic begins. But farther north you will see a spot with a blue sign for a lake on the right and one opposite on the left. Tunk Campground? It is a simple gravel road straight in, perhaps 1/2 mile or more. At the end is a tight back in to turn around. NO LARGE VEHICLES!!

4. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – McClellan Park Millbridge Campground

Address
McClellan Park Road
Milbridge, Maine
GPS: 44.484151, -67.854183
Elevation: 18′

Management: City Park

McClellan Park Millbridge Campground is open Memorial Day through Columbus Day. There are 6-15 campsites at this location.

Best Review:

Stayed just one night. Very quiet because so far from the highway. Did get a little noisy at sunup from lobster boats. Sites 9 & 10 a bit undeveloped. Had a nice chat with Dennis, the caretaker. Hope to go back when I can stay longer. My Tracfone worked fine there.

Stayed here with a motorcycle and a tent. Tom Manell would stay here again.

5. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Parking l Lot in Belfast

Address
Belfast, Maine
GPS: 44.427432, -69.006794
Elevation: 53′

Management: Retail Store

Private retail store in Belfast. First come first camped -> No Reservations Accepted

Best Review:

BIG public lot downtown Belfast. Nothing posted about overnight parking and it looked like others were doing it. I parked next to a big truck. I don\’t sleep well in my truck so I went and drank at Rollies, nice place. HUGE nachos. I\’d go with the half plate if I went back.

6. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Machias River Corridor PRL – Rt 9

Address
State Route 9
Wesley, Maine
GPS: 44.905921, -67.836207
Elevation: 190′

Management: Forest Service

Machias River Corridor PRL – Rt 9 is open May-Nov. The Machias River, one of Maine’s wildest and most cherished waterways, flows for 76 miles from Fifth Machias Lake to tidewater in downtown Machias. The State oversees stewardship and recreational use along its nearly unbroken shoreline, thanks to a remarkable effort that has protected more than 60,000 acres in the Machias River watershed-the country’s largest, self-sustaining wild Atlantic salmon run.

Best Review:

None

7. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Airline Rips

Address
Wesley, Maine
GPS: 44.907244, -67.835224
Elevation: 203′

Management: Forest Service

Six or 7 riverside sites off Route 9 between Beddington and Wesley, Maine. Nice spot with vault toilet and fire rings. First two sites are more suited to small tents butthe other sites will fit a trailer or motorhome.

Best Review:

Really nice free campground by a lovely river. It wasn’t crowded, but sites are fairly close together. There is direct river access at some of the sites. I unfortunately went during the black fly season and was bitten really badly (it lasts for a couple of weeks). I’d still recommend this camping area though. The road is well maintained and RVs could pass through.

8. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Walmart Bangor, ME

Address
Hermon, Maine
GPS: 44.840368, -68.748315
Elevation: 118′

Management: Retail Store

Private retail store in Hermon.First come first camped -> No Reservations Accepted

Best Review:

We stayed at the Walmart Bangor location. Nice parking lot well lit. My husband went in and spoke with the manager and even though there are “no overnight parking” signs posted in a side lot that is where she had is park. There were two other RVs parked as well. Plenty of room for our 36 ft motorhome with a tow.

9. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Dysarts Parking Lot

dress
530 Coldbrook Rd.
Hermon, Maine
GPS: 44.7759, -68.86446
Elevation: 157′

Management: Truck Stop

The road in is Paved. Dysarts Parking Lot is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay overnight at Dysarts Parking Lot.

Best Review:

530 Coldbrook Rd, Hermon, ME 04401 Dysarts truck stop parking lot. Best place is behind the car wash, across the street from the truck stop/gas/restaurant. Maybe 12 spots for vans/small RV’s. Lot of slots for large RV’s, not sure if those are designated for trucks though. Off the highway, so less noise though it is still a truck stop. They have pay showers/laundry inside the building.

10. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Log Landing Dispersed

Address
Maine
GPS: 44.9574, -67.8727
Elevation: 217′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 4 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Less than 4 miles off Route 9 on a dirt road. In mid May the road was soft and rough in spots but I was ok in 2WD. There are six sites around a small loop by the river. Fire rings, picnic table and vault toilet, plus easy launching for a canoe or small boat.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Near Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

Checked out the sites here Memorial Day weekend while exploring the dirt road they’re off of. A couple of nice sites, the other sites are a bit close together for my liking, but would be good for groups. There was one site in the corner that set back in, that was IMO exceptional. Great spot, little path right to the river’s edge. I definitely plan to visit again. No Verizon wireless signal there.

11. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Log Landing

Address
Maine
GPS: 44.9574, -67.8727
Elevation: 217′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 4 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Checked out the sites here Memorial Day weekend while exploring the dirt road they’re off of.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Near Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

A couple of nice sites, the other sites are a bit close together for my liking, but would be good for groups. There was one site in the corner that set back in, that was IMO exceptional. Great spot, little path right to the river’s edge. I definitely plan to visit again. No Verizon wireless signal there.

Stayed here in a 20 foot-long Class B (RV). Mythoi would stay here again.

12. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Machias Riverside

Address
Machias, Maine
GPS: 44.715134, -67.456466
Elevation: 10′

Management: Country Park

The road in is Gravel and next to miles from a paved road. Machias riverside is open daily. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Machias riverside. Free overnight parking behind hardware store. Next to river, between signs. Great hardware/gift store and restaurants, etc. Right in downtown.

Amenities:

Boat Ramp
Near Water
Trash Cans

Best Review:

Perfect Boondocking spot. Signs say you can park overnight. In between the signs there are about 8 parking spaces. On the far right you can see the waterfalls. Fairly quiet. I stayed in a class B. Tow trailers or huge rigs may experience difficulty. Excellent Verizon Wi-Fi.

13. Acadia National Park Boondocking – West Branch Campsite

Address
CCC Raod
Wesley, Maine
GPS: 44.959308, -67.872708
Elevation: 217′

Management: Fish and Wildlife

The road in is Gravel and 3.8 miles from a paved road. West Branch Campsite is open May – Nov. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 at West Branch Campsite.

Amenities:

Fire Ring
Near Water
Picnic Tables
Restrooms

Best Review:

Part of the Machias River Public Reserved Lands, State of Maine Dept of Conservation, Parks and Lands. This is a single campsite situated along a dirt road, with waterfront access to the river. This is one of the bigger sites in the area. A single fire ring, picnic table, and vault toilet provided. If camping with a group, this site likely could fit a few tents, vans or truck campers. Motorhomes up to about 26′ if you don’t mind driving the miles of dirt road to get here.

14. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Cutler Public Land

Address
Cutler, Maine
GPS: 44.69859, -67.15801
Elevation: 128′

Management: Bureau of Land Management

A trailhead in the cutler reserve land. Two parking lots, lower one is for long term parking. There’s 3 tent campsites on the trails. Tons of room for an RV.

Best Review:

Popular spot. Gravel and dirt parking lots surrounded by trees but cleared for plenty of solar intake on sunny days. Used for day hikes and 5 walk-in ocean front camp sites.

Been here 3 times and most cars in the parking lots belong to hikers or walk-in campers. We were the only vanlifers staying in the parking lot but we took advantage of the awesome oceanfront trail hike.
Put toilet looked clean and 3 bars of strong AT&T cell service.

15. Acadia National Park Boondocking – DOT Rest Area

Address
Newcastle, Maine
GPS: 44.01101, -69.59723
Elevation: 7′

Management: Rest Area

Small rest area with ample parking and picnic areas.

Best Review:

Many sleep overnight in the summer, all in vehicle. Bathroom closes for the night. Good views and quiet.

16. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Walmart Calais

Address
Calais, Maine
GPS: 45.174988, -67.279158

Management: Retail Store

The road in is Paved. Walmart Calais is open year round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay overnight at Walmart Calais.

Best Review:

Very quiet Walmart with big parking lot. Backed into a spot in front of the woods to the far left of the store and woke to the sound of birds. Didn’t ask permission and we were the only camper/van but had no problem.

17. Acadia National Park Boondocking – Wonderland Campsite

Address
CCC Road
Wesley, Maine
GPS: 45.008583, -67.867906
Elevation: 246′

Management: Forest Service

The road in is Dirt and 7.5 miles from a paved road. Wonderland Campsite is open May-Nov. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 at Wonderland Campsite.

Best Review:

Part of the Machias River Public Reserved Lands, State of Maine Dept of Conservation, Parks and Lands. This is two campsites situated just off a dirt road, with waterfront access to the river. Fire ring, picnic table, and vault toilet provided. The road was in good condition when I went there, a bit of washboard, but dry, no ruts. Despite having a very rainy month, and still being spring. The short road into the campsite is a little more rugged. My rwd van handled it ok, but I wouldn’t attempt in wet conditions. Campsite is at 45.008583 -67.867906 which I accessed via the dirt road entrance at: 44.910562, -67.854196.

18. Acadia National Park Boondockers Welcome – Machias Maine Boat Ramp

Address
East Machias, Maine
GPS: 44.737192, -67.390267
Elevation: 56′

Management: Country Park

The road in is Paved. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay overnight at Machias Maine boat ramp.

Best Review:

A lovely stop a short drive out of the town of Machais at the Hwy 1 and Hwy 191 junction. There are two options for parking your rig. Smaller vans and trucks could easily park on the boat ramp (River) side. Bigger rigs would for better on the other side of the road near the vault toilets. There is room for two larger rigs on this side of the park. An added bonus to parking away from the boat ramp is another river that splashes over the rocks, making it very tempting to do your toes in the river hiding in the bushes behind the parking area. There is no signage forbidding overnight parking. We stayed without any interference. However, I would not recommend this is a tent camping area.

Top Trails to Hike at Acadia National Park

Over 200 great trails characterize the hiking of Acadia National Park. Ranging from walking trails, Mountain biking trails, and hiking trails. Some of the fascinating top trails that are a must hike include these 7 favorites we tried.

1. Jordan Pond Entire Loop Trail

1. Jordan Pond Entire Loop Trail Boondocking

The 3.1 mile loop trail located few meters away from Mount Desert is one of the most crowded during its peak. Jordan pond’s entire loop is rated as moderated and primarily used for hiking, running, and bird watching. The best time to hike the feature is between April and October.

This is a for the most part level path that follows the lake edge. There is a broad footpath over the mucky regions and a brief distance that you will climb over a few stones. I would suggest doing the circle counter-clockwise as you will go over the more narrow footpath first. You will regularly need to stand to the side when meeting others on the footpath. It was nice to not do that toward the finish of our walk. There are numerous vistas of the lake and the encompassing mountains. There are numerous blueberries and huckleberries on the east side.

Length: 3.1 mi
Elevation gain: 42 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Hiking, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Lake, Partially paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife,
Rocky, Scramble, Off trail, Fee

2. Beehive Loop Trail

2. Beehive Loop Trail Boondocking

This is a 1.5 mile loop trail located near Bar Harbor town. Primarily used for hiking, the fascinating trail is rated as difficult and best used from May until October.

What a great path. Pretty unique in relation to anything I’ve done previously, and truly marvelous landscapes on the coast and the whole park all through the climb. Unquestionably not for weak willed, but rather it’s not really that hard to scale and down. There are extremely valuable hand-holds and metal grasps all through, never felt hazardous or risky. We went up around 3pm on a Saturday, and I would suggest going prior and on a work day on the off chance that you can, on the grounds that there were a great many people there.

Length: 1.5 mi
Elevation gain: 508 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Beach, Forest, Lake, Views, Rocky, Scramble, Fee, No dogs

3. Cadillac North Ridge Trail

3. Cadillac North Ridge Trail Boondocking

The trail provides an opportunity to hike to the highest point of Acadia National Park. You may need to park before getting up to the trail. The 4 mile long trail is rated as complex.

Lovely bright day to climb this path! Begun at 6:30 am, which given a bit of shade right off the bat. No cover and extremely rough toward the top. Took around 1/2 hours to arrive at the top, and I’m genuinely beat, halting to take pictures oftentimes. A pleasant decently testing trail that is truly agreeable. The views from the top are terrific! An absolute necessity to do when visiting Acadia.

Length: 4.0 mi
Elevation gain: 1,118 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Running, Forest, Partially paved, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Fee

4. Precipice, Orange and Black and Champlain North Ridge Trail Loop

4. Precipice, Orange and Black and Champlain North Ridge Trail Loop Boondocking

The 2.1 mile trail is rated as hard but usually closed due to falcon nesting. Maine features beautiful wildflowers. The trail is used for nature trips, bird watching as well as hiking. It is best for hiking from May until October.

If you are afraid of heights this is tough! At 69 years young I found this tough but I completed it. If you just keep moving with minimal breaks it is a great aerobic trails. I a bit scared when the there was one ledge with no rungs to hold on to but I became one with the rock when my wife said No Mas! The views are beyond great. And that is no exaggeration- exquisite.

Length: 2.1 mi
Elevation gain: 1,053 ft
Route type: Loop

Hiking, Nature trips, Bird watching, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, Fee, No dogs

5. Ocean Path and Gorham Mountain Loop Trail

5. Ocean Path and Gorham Mountain Loop Trail Boondockers Welcome

It is a 3.1 mile loop trail rated as moderate that takes its users from the sandy beach of the Atlantic. It is used for hiking, and dogs are capable of using this trail.

It was very nice! Lots of rock scrambling on the way up, and a stretch of riverbed trail on the way down. The views from the top are nice, and the Ocean Path stretch is beautiful, with lots of places to walk along the rocks and shoreline, or take the easier by-the-road route. Great trail overall for everyone, but would not recommend to less agile dogs. 🙂

Length: 3.1 mi
Elevation gain: 580 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Hiking, Forest, Lake, Partially paved, Views, Rocky, Fee

6. Ocean Trail To Thunder Hole, Memorial Cove and Otter Point

6. Ocean Trail To Thunder Hole, Memorial Cove and Otter Point Boondockers Welcome

The 3.5 Miles out and backtrack locate near Bar Habor features wild floras and is noble for all skill levels. Rated as easy, the trail remains accessible throughout the year and is mainly used for bird watching, running and walking.

Loved this walk—great way to take in some the most popular views and Acadia. We started early (7a) and would recommend doing the same to avoid the typical crowds later in the morning. Didn’t love that ocean path is along the road and would be a ton better if quieter. The Gorham Mountain has a beautiful view of the ocean at the top, but no views on the way up (which you do get with some of the steeper mountains at Acadia). Would recommend this if time is short and / or you’re looking to get the Acadia highlights!

Length: 4.5 mi
Elevation gain: 374 ft
Route type: Out & back

Dogs on leash, Kid friendly, Walking, Bird watching, Running, Beach, Forest, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, Fee

7. Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail Top

7. Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail Top Boondockers Welcome

The 6 mile moderate trial takes the users to the tallest point in Acadia National Park from the south. Throughout the hiking, there are spectacular views, including the sunrise. The route starts with parking that is usually full during the early morning hours before sunrise.

Exquisite climb! On the off chance that you had just a single day in Acadia this is the climb we would suggest.

As many propose, we went counter-clockwise, and it was awesome! Dorr and Cadillac were testing highest points with excellent perspectives en route and the plummet down Canon Brook felt like an altogether unique scene with the stunning cascades.

Length: 8.0 mi
Elevation gain: 2,286 ft
Route type: Loop

Dogs on leash, Hiking, Running, Forest, Views, Waterfall, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, Scramble, Fee

Things to Do and See at Acadia National Park

Before giving an insight on the things to do and see in the Acadia National Park, it is essential to categorize the leading regions in the park. Mount Desert Island is the most significant and consists of attractive features such as Cadillac Mountain, Bar Harbor, and many other top things to participate in the park. The other region is the scenic Schoodic Peninsula which is on the North, and to the south, we have the Isle au Haut, the island that you can only reach through a ferry or boat.

1. Hiking

Acadia National Park features excellent diverse hiking trails. There is always something for everyone to hike as long as they get to the park. From thrilling cliff walk to simple strolls along the coastal trails. Among the things that make Acadia State Park attractively unique are the numerous hiking paths with metal rungs and ladders.

Some of the hikes that constitute challenging cliff walk with metal rungs include Jordan cliffs, beech cliff ladder trail, precipice trail and the beehive trail. In addition, hiking paths such as Cadillac summit loop trail, Ocean path and loop trail around Jordan pond are short strolls that almost everyone can do.

2. Cadillac Mountain

With a height of 1530 fits, the Cadillac Mountain is the tallest in the north Atlantic seaboard. Due to its position and height, the mountain constitutes among the few spots in the United States you can view the sunrise. Hiking the mountain may be done by car or by walking. It is one of the fascinating points of climb in Acadia. The best and most popular to experience in Acadia natural Park is the sunrise at the top of the mountain. A person must wake up very early in the morning to catch the observation of sunrise. The parking at the site fills up very early, so if you want to enjoy the scene, it is essential to arrive a couple of minutes before sunrise. Hiking may not be necessary because the trails allow driving up to the top. However, there are reservations and guidelines during the period between late May to October. Get a guide from the management for an informative visit.

3. Drive Park Loop Road

The 27-mile park loop road connects several spots around Mount Desert Island, the largest segment of Acadia National Park.
Some popular areas connected by the scenic road include Cadillac Mountain, carriage roads and Jordan pond. The most extensive coverage of the road is one way. It starts at North near bar harbour on the one-way route until Jordan pond. The only two-way section is the part connecting Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Park. The drive provides connections to other amazing hiking sites such as Precipice trail, beehive trail, ocean path, sand beach and thunder hole.

4. Jordan Pond House

The Jordan pond house is a famous site in Acadia National Park because of its popovers. After doing several visits to Jordan pond, people flock at the house, especially midday, to enjoy tasty treats. A short walking distance from Jordan pond house allows accessing more thrilling hiking sites, including south bubble and Jordan cliffs trails.

5. Carriage Roads

The role of John D Rockefeller in the funding of carriage roads and donating 11000 acres left an indelible mark in the Acadia National Park. The carriage roads initially built for horse riding are now open for bikers, hikers, walkers, and horse riding. In addition, the carriage roads offer a fantastic ride around Acadia National Park, experiencing the natural meanders around the park.

6. Take a Boat Tour in Acadia National Park

The two high-rated companies offering boat tours of Acadia coastline and the island include Bass Harbour Cruises and Acadia Boat Tours. Enjoy a boat while fishing, go through harbour Head Light House, sight observing cruise, busk in a sunset nature cruise and go on puffin cruise.

7. Visit Acadia National Park Echo Lake

Located on Mount Desert Island, Echo Lake is a beautiful sight to watch. If hiking is not your forte, you can enjoy the lake view from the small beach. However, if you want to enjoy fantastic cliff views, take a gorgeous hike at Beech cliff Ladder Trail. By hiking, you will have achieved two things simultaneously, i.e. hiking and watching the Echo Lake.

8. Enjoy Fascinating Lakes From the George Trail.

The easy beautiful path near Dorr Mountain is one of the surprises of Acadia National Park. It is delightful to watch the Lakes from this point. The most attractive period at the site is during October.

The fall colors appear attractive and gorgeous. They are two pretty Lakes to enjoy watching. Anyone visiting Acadia National Park passes through Bar Harbor Town in one way or another. Therefore, it is essential to explore the little town and interact with activities just outside Acadia National Park.

How to get to Acadia National Park

The Acadia National Park’s most significant landmark is the Cadillac Mountain, the tallest on the Atlantic coast of the United States. The park is located in the mine. A person may get to Maine by car, plane or renting an RV. While getting there, by car, the first thing is to determine whether you want to head straight to Mt Desert Land or Schoodic Peninsula. From Boston, 195 leads to Bangor, from there follow street 1A east to Ellsworth. At Ellsworth, you either en route Mount Desert Island through route 3 or Schoodic Peninsula through route 1 to HWY 186.

You may also take direct flights from Boston Airport land to Hancock County Airport or national airlines to Bangor International Airport for a plane. Both of the airports provide rental cars options. The RV option doe allows not only a comfortable trip but also timely planning. The location of the start does not matter, but it travels to the nearest position. However, as much as the RVs offer a comfortable ride, it is essential to familiarize yourself with National park Services guidelines and restrictions

Paid Accommodations and Dining Near Acadia National Park

The Bar Habor town and its environment provide excellent, reliable and affordable accommodation options for Acadia National Park visitors. There are a variety of star rating hotels around the national park charging affordable prices.

Some of the leading on the accommodation list include; waterfront cottage near Acadia park cottage with two bedrooms and four guest houses charging $397 per night, Cadillac Mountain overlooks with three bedroom and six guest houses charging $639 per night at Bar Harbor, Harborside Inn charging $275 a night, Otter Creek Inn charging $185 per night and many others with a range between $ 185 To $700 depending on the facilities and services offered.

What to Pack for A Visit to Acadia National Park

Packing for the Acadia National Park depends on the time of visit. However, it is important to carry some of the basic hiking tools such as hiking boots and flexible tracksuits. The essential clothing according to the season applies. However, it is advisable to visit the park during summer. But around the Acadia National Park guides can help you on the things you will require for each activity and the price of each item. Everything you will need is available at affordable prices around Bar Harbor town.

Acadia National Park remains one of the fascinating sites to pay a visit to and enjoy excellent geographical and artificial human sites.

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July 11, 2022 0 comments

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