10 National Parks You’ll Fall in Love With This Winter
- Campspotter
Myth: national parks are just for summer. Winter, in fact, is when the crowds disappear and the off-season magic comes alive. Say goodbye to traffic jams at the gate and sweltering days that melt your motivation…and instead drink in the fresh air, golden light, and room to roam. From desert warmth to snow-dusted peaks, here are 10 national parks that are amazing in winter, plus where to camp nearby.
Jump to your desired winter national park experience:
Warm-Weather Escapes
If you’re chasing warmer weather, these national parks stay sunny and gorgeous in the off-season.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
With mild 60° days and endless blue skies, Joshua Tree is pure perfection in winter. Explore surreal desert trails, climb boulders, and enjoy stargazing in one of the darkest night skies in the U.S. The mix of rugged rocks and spiky yuccas looks even more striking in the low winter light.
Pro Tips:
- Bring layers. Desert nights can dip below freezing.
- Don’t miss the Hidden Valley Trail or Keys View for an unbeatable panorama.
Where to Camp: Joshua Tree RV Campground
Joshua Tree RV Campground
Located in the heart of the beautiful Morongo Basin, sits Joshua Tree RV Campground. If you're looking for a beautiful spot to stay in Joshua Tree, while being near great events and activities, look no further than Joshua Tree RV Campground. Book your spot today!
- Dog Park
- Playground
- Sports Field
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend’s vast canyons and desert mesas come alive in winter, where the days are typically mild and sunny (though be prepared for a variety of conditions). Explore scenic drives, soak in the Rio Grande hot springs, or hike among fossil beds with views stretching into Mexico. The dry, crisp air makes this one of the clearest night skies on Earth, ideal for stargazers and photographers alike.
Pro Tips:
- Try the Lost Mine Trail at sunrise for golden canyon views.
- Book early! Big Bend’s winter season is short but popular.
Where to Camp: Lakeview RV and Cabins
Lakeview RV and Cabins
Lakeview RV and Cabins is located two miles east from Stockbridge, Wisconsin, upon the Niagra Escarpment. The view is incredible of the whole eastern side of Lake Winnebago, with no two sunsets alike. Start your adventure at the lake, playground, boating, bicycling, or ATVing, and end your day at their Oasis Bar. Lakeview RV and Cabins has something for the whole family!
- Pool
- Dog Park
- Arcade
- Mini-Golf
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Outdoor Theater
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Shuffleboard
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Dump Station
Everglades National Park, Florida
Forget the summer humidity, winter is when the Everglades truly shines. With fewer mosquitoes, mild temps, and teeming wildlife, it’s prime time for airboat rides and kayak adventures through mangrove tunnels. Expect to see alligators basking, manatees drifting, and herons gliding across glassy waters.
Pro Tips:
- Bring binoculars. Birdwatching is phenomenal this time of year.
- Visit Shark Valley early for cooler temps and active wildlife. Winter is also peak season for Shark Valley, so plan ahead.
Where to Camp: Key Largo Campground
Key Largo Kampground
Located in the first key of the Fabulous Florida Keys, Key Largo Kampground sprawls across 40 acres along the Atlantic Ocean, situated in a tranquil cove just off the main South Creek channel. Offering a spacious marina boasting 14 wet slips for convenient boat docking, guests are welcomed to choose from a variety of accommodations: - RV sites: Featuring full hookup options with 30/50/20-amp elec
- Beach
- Waterfront
- Pool
- Boat Launch
- Cable TV
- Playground
- Ice Cream
- Volleyball
- Shuffleboard
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- Dump Station
- Snack Stand
- Laundry
Saguaro National Park, Arizona
In winter, the Sonoran Desert feels downright inviting. With highs in the 60s and 70s, it’s perfect weather for hiking among towering saguaro cacti that seem to wave hello at every turn. The sunsets here are legendary, painting the desert in pinks and oranges that linger long after dusk.
Pro Tips:
- Take the Bajada Loop Drive to explore the foothills.
- Visit the Desert Discovery Nature Trail for a gentle, family-friendly walk.
Where to Camp: Far Horizons
Far Horizons
Far Horizons in Tucson, Arizona, is a 55+ community offering both comfort and convenience in a vibrant desert setting. Located close to shopping, dining, golf courses, and medical facilities, this resort ensures easy access to everything residents need. With Tucson International Airport and the stunning landscapes of Saguaro National Park just a short drive away, Far Horizons is ideal for those wh
- Pool
- Hiking
- Dog Park
- Arts & Crafts
- Shuffleboard
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Internet Access
- Special Events
Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada
In winter, Death Valley’s extremes soften into something magical. Temperatures are mild, perfect for exploring sand dunes, marble canyons, and salt flats without melting. Sunrise paints pastel hues over Zabriskie Point, and sunset at Badwater Basin feels like the edge of the world.
Pro Tips:
- Pack layers; nights can get cold in the desert.
- Don’t miss the short hike to Golden Canyon for dramatic rock formations.
Where to Camp: Nevada Treasure RV Resort
Nevada Treasure RV Resort
Nestled in the northern part of the Pahrump valley, 55 miles west of Las Vegas sits a world-class luxury RV resort capable of meeting all your needs while staying in southern Nevada. Nevada Treasure RV Resort is a 5 star rated resort by Trailer Life, Woodall's and is among Good Sam's "Top 100" RV Parks. Enjoy the spacious RV sites, some with private gazebos and BBQs, the two-level swimming pool, w
- Pool
- Hot Tub / Sauna
- Dog Park
- Arts & Crafts
- Restaurant
- Ice Cream
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Special Events
Snowy Stunners
Fewer crowds, frozen waterfalls, and landscapes straight out of a snow globe.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Winter turns Yellowstone into another planet. Watch steam rise from geysers against a backdrop of fresh snow, or spot bison and elk trekking through frosted valleys. Snowcoach tours replace cars, offering a peaceful, cinematic way to see Old Faithful erupt in the hush of winter.
Pro Tips:
- Cars are not allowed after a certain date, so check for this year’s cutoff.
- Bring a good camera; wildlife photography is at its best this time of year.
Where to Camp: Yellowstone Hot Springs
Yellowstone Hot Springs
Relax and unwind in Montana’s newest hot springs experience – Yellowstone Hot Springs. Located just eight miles north of the North entrance to Yellowstone Park, at the south end of beautiful Paradise Valley. Yellowstone Hot Springs is a soaking experience like no other. Settled between two mountain ranges, and nestled on the bank of the Yellowstone River, peace and serenity are the keynotes of thi
'22- Pool
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- Pavilion
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce’s red spires and hoodoos transform under a soft coat of snow, creating a surreal mix of crimson and white. The crisp air and quiet trails make for peaceful hikes and unforgettable sunrise views over the amphitheater. It’s the kind of scene that turns even casual visitors into lifelong winter park lovers.
Pro Tips:
- Stop at Inspiration Point for the best panoramic views.
- The section of the Rim Trail between Inspiration Point and Bryce point is often closed in winter, so double-check for your itinerary.
Where to Camp: Dark Sky RV Campground
Dark Sky RV Campground
Dark Sky RV sits on 40 acres of untouched sagebrush. Their 18 full service sites and 10 Camp Luxury sites for vans have unobstructed views of the Red Cliffs, Vermillion Cliffs, and the Kaibab Plateau as well as the most beautiful sunrises, sunsets and a sky full of stars that’s hard to believe. Relax and enjoy their luxurious amenities, including private bath suites, outdoor showers, open terrac
- '25
- Dog Park
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
- Special Events
- Zip Line
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
When winter arrives, the Rockies take on a hushed grandeur. Snowshoe across frozen lakes, spot elk herds in the meadows, or enjoy the solitude of trails that see thousands of summer visitors. With bluebird skies and sparkling snowfields, this is Colorado in its purest form.
Pro Tips:
- Bear Lake Road stays plowed and accessible for most of winter, but be prepared for winter driving conditions regardless.
- Bring layers—temperatures drop fast after sunset.
Where to Camp: Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains
Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains
Discover the ultimate vacation experience at Sun Outdoors Rocky Mountains, formerly River Run RV Resort, with a great location in Granby, Colorado. Escape to where the sky meets the mountain. Where foot meets trail, fly meets the river, and eyes greet every sunset as they melt over the horizon. From kayaking and fly fishing on the Colorado River to skiing Rocky Mountain slopes to relaxing by a bo
- '25
- Canoeing / Kayaking
- Waterfront
- Pool
- Hot Tub / Sauna
- Dog Park
- Boat Launch
- Cable TV
- Arcade
- Mini-Golf
- Golf Cart Rental
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Outdoor Theater
- Basketball
- GaGa Ball
- Jumping Pillow
- Sports Field
- Volleyball
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
Quiet and Crowd-Free Gems
Where solitude, scenery, and slow travel meet.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona (South Rim)
Winter reveals a whole new side of the Grand Canyon—peaceful, crisp, and still. Snow sometimes dusts the rim while the inner canyon glows golden in the low light. With fewer visitors, it’s easy to soak in the magnitude of this natural wonder without distraction.
Pro Tips:
- The South Rim is open year-round; expect occasional snow closures.
- Pack a thermos and catch sunrise at Mather Point—it’s worth the chill.
Where to Camp: Woody Mountain Campground
Woody Mountain Campground
Escape to the cool tall pines at Woody Mountain Campground in Flagstaff, AZ. Enjoy large pull-through RV sites and tent camping in this quiet, natural setting. Onsite amenities include a general store, sandwich shop, playground, bathhouses, laundry facilities, and more. The park is just minutes from downtown Flagstaff where you can explore an abundance of outdoor activities, restaurants, local sho
- '23
- Dog Park
- Playground
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Snack Stand
- Garbage
- Laundry
Zion National Park, Utah
Winter is Zion’s best-kept secret. With the shuttle system paused, you can drive the main canyon road yourself and explore at your own pace. The crisp air, soft light, and empty trails turn familiar hikes like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows into serene, almost spiritual experiences.
Pro Tips:
- Consider renting a drysuit and bringing microspikes for The Narrows.
- Stop by the visitor center for current trail and weather updates.
Where to Camp: Kaibab Paiute RV Park and Campground
Kaibab Paiute RV Park and Campground
Kaibab Paiute RV Park and Campground, located on the Kaibab Paiute Indian Reservation between Fredonia and Colorado City, Arizona, is your perfect basecamp for exploring the wonders of Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this serene campground offers easy access to Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon North Rim—all within a convenient day tr
- Hiking
- Dog Park
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
Why Winter Might Be the Best Season for National Parks
Between lower campground rates, crowd-free trails, and a slower, more peaceful rhythm, winter brings out the best in America’s national parks. No matter what type of experience you’re looking for, you’ll experience the national parks in some of their most majestic form.
Bundle up, find your perfect winter basecamp, and let the off-season show you a whole new side of adventure.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock users Brian Swanson, Kanokwalee, Jason, Michael Fitz, Michail, The Sturdy Table, Jakub, Jim Glab, Stephen, pabrady63