20 Trending National Parks to Visit in 2024
Few outdoor adventures top the extraordinary experience of visiting a national park. National Park Week is taking place from April 20 to April 28 this year, which means it’s time to pack up the car and explore our celebrated treasures. With over 400 national park sites across the country, we looked into the top national parks campers are headed to for 2024—20 of them, to be exact, in honor of National Park Week’s kickoff date, April 20. Check out this list of trending national parks and start planning now.
Pro Tip: Entrance fees are also being waived on April 20, so get to it!
Trending National Parks to Visit During National Park Week
1. Yellowstone National Park
Trending at number one is, appropriately, America’s first national park. Located mostly in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park sits on top of a dormant volcano and is renowned for its diverse wilderness and unique geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser and vibrantly colored Grand Prismatic Spring. The park sprawls across 2.2 million acres, which means endless opportunities to hike canyons, see waterfalls, explore half the world’s active geysers, and watch tons of wildlife in their natural ecosystem.
Where to Camp Near Yellowstone National Park: RedRock RV Park
RedRock RV Park in Island Park, Idaho, is located just 22 miles from Yellowstone National Park, providing a perfect basecamp near the west side of the park. Choose from a variety of accommodations, including RV sites, tent camping, or their new tiny home or Airstream, and enjoy onsite amenities like a pickleball court, convenience store, and more. There are plenty of off-roading trails directly accessible from the campsite as well.
Where to Camp Near Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone Hot Springs
Just eight miles from the North entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone Hot Springs brings the soaking experience straight to your camp. After a full day of hiking and exploration, relax in mineral-rich pool waters while drinking in the spectacular mountains nearby. Seriously, don’t miss these views—this campground was a 2022 Campspot Awards Winner in the category Top Views.
2. Acadia National Park
Runner-up in our list of trending national parks is Acadia National Park, located along the rugged coast of Maine. Its rocky shorelines, towering granite peaks, and green forests attract visitors all year-round. Visitors can hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the east coast, for breathtaking sunrises and panoramic views of the surrounding islands and coastline. Along the shore, visitors can swim, beachcomb, and explore tidal pools teeming with marine life.
Where to Camp Near Acadia National Park: Hadley’s Point Campground
This lovely campground is just minutes from Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor. A 2023 Campspot Awards Winner for Best Campgrounds for Couples, this family-friendly park offers proximity to a public saltwater beach, relaxation among the pines, and comfortable accommodations for a variety of campers, including tent sites, full hookups, and cozy cabins.
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Where to Camp Near Acadia National Park: Wild Acadia Camping Resort
Also located minutes from Acadia National Park, this campground is the perfect basecamp for visitors who want tons of adventure right on-site. Get ready for two 300-feet waterslides (among other water park amenities), a climbing wall, trampolines, a zip-line, a forest-themed ropes course, mini-golf course, and more. The only risk? Your family not wanting to leave camp.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The third-most popular national park among campers in 2024 is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. As America’s most visited national park (with over 12 million visitors every year), Great Smoky Mountains National Park is your destination for all things Southern Appalachian wilderness. Visitors can explore over 800 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and diverse ecosystems encompassing thousands of plant and animal species, including black bears, elk, and synchronous fireflies.
Read Next: The Ultimate 5-Day Pigeon Forge Itinerary for a Family Road Trip
Where to Camp Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Mountaineer Campground
A 2024 Campspot Award Winner in the category Top Small Campgrounds, Mountaineer Campground offers peaceful, shaded campsites (tent, RV, or cabins) right by the sparkling Little River. Try river tubing, trout fishing, or horseback riding nearby, in addition to on-site amenities like the pool, playground, and modern bathhouse.
Where to Camp Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Greenbrier Campground
Located less than half a mile from the Greenbrier entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this campground is a three-time 2024 Campspot Awards winner in the categories Top Campgrounds in the U.S., Top Midsize Campgrounds, and Top Campgrounds for Fishing. If you still need more persuasion, the park offers the best swimming hole in the Smokies at the famous Flint Rock, complete with a private beach and trout fishing on the river banks.
4. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a true majesty of America. Visitors can expect to be awe-struck by iconic landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. A favorite on our list of trending national parks, it boasts over 800 miles of trails winding through ancient forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, scenic drives along Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road provide access to stunning viewpoints and vistas of the park’s stunning landscapes.
Where to Camp Near Yosemite National Park: Indian Flat RV Park
Indian Flat RV Park is the closest campground to Yosemite National Park on highway 140, making it the perfect place to set up shop for your Yosemite adventures. Choose from a range of RV sites, tent sites, or tent cabins, and make sure to check out the on-site gift shop and outdoor pool.
5. Grand Teton National Park
One of the most popular national parks among campers, Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming and just 10 miles from Yellowstone National Park (to which it’s also connected). This national park is a breathtaking landscape dominated by the peaks of the Teton Range, which rise abruptly from the Jackson Hole Valley floor. Get ready for loads of hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife photography at this favorite among trending national parks.
Where to Camp Near Grand Teton National Park: Yellowstone Trail RV Park
RVers can park up here on the way to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Enjoy full-hookups with mountain views (the campground is nestled in the Wind RIver Mountain Range), along with pickleball, basketball, trails, and free Wi-Fi. There are also lakes, wildlife, and tons of hiking nearby.
Book This Park in the Heart of It All
6. Rocky Mountain National Park
The Colorado Rockies are calling, straight from Rocky Mountain National Park. The park spans the Continental Divide and hosts towering mountains, alpine tundra, and forests. Enjoy the rugged peaks, gorgeous lakes, and over 350 miles of hiking trails, and gear up to snap photos of elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.
Where to Camp Near Rocky Mountain National Park: Winding River Resort
No matter the type of campsite you’re seeking, you’ll find the perfect one here, surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho National Forest. Guests can go horseback-riding, snowmobiling, and hiking, while fishing and water sports are also available nearby. Don’t miss the on-site animal farm either!
7. Arches National Park
Arches National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is truly a fixture on our list of trending national parks. The park is defined by its iconic sandstone arches, towering spires, and otherworldly rock formations. With over 2,000 natural stone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, the park boasts the largest concentration of natural arches in the world.
Where to Camp Near Arches National Park: Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway
It’s all in the name. Whether you’re lounging in the hot tub, taking your furry friend to the dog park, or playing mini-golf, you’ll also be soaking in the Arches’ majestic sights. This family campground (complete with cabin rentals, RV sites, and tent camping) has everything you need for a comfortable stay right by all the national park’s magic.
8. Glacier National Park
Nestled in Montana along the Canadian border is Glacier National Park, a land whose sparkling beauty has earned its nickname as the “Crown of the Continent.” Spanning over 1 million acres filled with wildlife, the trending national park offers sights of two mountain ranges, glacial-carved valleys, and remaining glaciers themselves, along with over 700 lakes.
Where to Camp Near Glacier National Park: Mountain Meadow RV Park & Cabins
Set up shop at this premier campground just nine miles from the west entrance to Glacier National Park. Choose from a variety of accommodations, and enjoy 33 acres of forest park, laundry room and showers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a stocked trout pond.
9. Zion National Park
Zion National Park—Utah’s first national park—is an iconic desert oasis. From the peak of Angels Landing to the bottom of The Narrows, this national park offers spectacular views through narrow slot canyons, over slickrock ridges, and along verdant riverbanks. It’s no wonder that Zion is consistently one of the top trending national parks in the country.
Where to Camp Near Zion National Park: Dark Sky RV Campground
Consistently a Campspot Awards Winner—ranking most recently in the category Top Small Campgrounds for 2024—Dark Sky RV Campground offers both full-service RV and luxury van sites with clear views of the Red Cliffs, Vermillion Cliffs, and the Kaibab Plateau. True to its namesake, the sunrises, sunsets, and stars also cannot be beat here. Luxurious amenities, including private bath suites, meditative areas, kids’ zip-line, and more await.
Where to Camp Near Zion National Park: Hitch-N-Post RV Park
Just 30 miles from Zion National Park, this RV campground in Kanab, Utah, provides shady campsites, comfortable amenities, and patio games for the kids. You’ll be just five minutes from Jackson Flats Reservoir for rock-climbing, boating, trailing, and more. Other national and state parks and attractions are also just a drive away.
10. Big Bend National Park
Tenth on our list of trending national parks is Big Bend National Park, named for the sweeping curve of the Rio Grande that forms its southern boundary. Known as “Texas’ gift to the nation,” this national park is famous for its wide (and contrasting) range of ecosystems, from desert scrublands and mountains to river valleys and colorful canyons. It’s also known for its extremely diverse mix of plant and animal species, especially in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Where to Camp Near Big Bend National Park: Roadrunner Travelers Campground
This campground in the little town of Terlingua is just a short drive from Big Bend National park. RV guests can post up here for excellent views of Bee Mountain, as well as excellent stargazing in the evenings (Terlingua is a Dark Skies Region).
Where to Camp Near Big Bend National Park: Maverick Ranch RV Park
Nestled within the hills of Quiet Canyon and bordered by Lajitas Mesa, the Maverick Ranch RV Park at Lajitas Golf Resort is a perfect basecamp for your Big Bend RV adventure. Enjoy luxurious amenities like the spa, golf club, horseback trail rides, ziplining, mountain bike trails, and more.
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11. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore stretches for 42 miles along the coast of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Named for the colorful mineral stains that streak the sandstone cliffs (which span 15 miles), this geological majesty hosts waterfalls, sand dunes, inland lakes, forests, and secluded coves accessible by foot, kayak, or boat tour. Depending on the time you go, this is also the perfect place to try ice climbing.
Where to Camp Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Munising Tourist Park Campground
This city-owned campground is right on the shores of Lake Superior, which means the adventure doesn’t stop once you get back to camp. RV or tent campers can rest easy with breathtaking views, as well as take advantage of the three-mile distance to services to book a cruise or riptide adventure.
Where to Camp Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Woodland Park Campground
Also located on Lake Superior, Woodland Park Campground is not only a relaxing basecamp for your Pictured Rocks adventure, but it’s also located close to the Grand Marais, the local marina, and whitefish sport-fishing for additional activities.
12. Sequoia National Park
Situated in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains of California, this trending national park is a breathtaking sanctuary of towering sequoias. Home to some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth, including the famous General Sherman Tree, Sequoia National Park captivates visitors with its forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Where to Camp Near Sequoia National Park: Camp Ikigai at Ikigai Animal Sanctuary
Campers wanting a unique experience will find just that at Camp Ikigai at Ikigai Animal Sanctuary. When you’re not climbing among the giants at Sequoia National Park, take part in campground activities like mushroom hunting, bird watching, rock collecting, bike tours, and of course, exploring their animal sanctuary.
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13. Grand Canyon National Park
Carved by the mighty Colorado River, the world-renowned Grand Canyon stretches for 277 miles, revealing layers of rock that date back billions of years. Visitors can expect to be blown away by the sheer magnitude and scale of the canyon’s towering cliffs, deep gorges, and vibrant colors. The awe won’t stop whether you’re hiking along the rim, rafting the Colorado River, or taking in the panoramic vistas from viewpoints such as Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station.
Where to Camp Near Grand Canyon National Park: Woody Mountain Campground
Choose from large pull-through sites, tent camping, or bed-and-breakfast hotel rooms for the ultimately cozy stay. Don’t forget to enjoy all the amenities either, which include a general store, sandwich shop, playground, bathhouses, and more. You’ll also be just minutes from downtown Flagstaff, where you can find more restaurants, breweries, and shopping.
14. Mammoth Cave National Park
This trending national park takes you below ground. A famous draw to south-central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park boasts the world’s longest-known cave system. With over 400 miles of explored passageways and chambers, Mammoth Cave offers visitors a journey through intricate labyrinthine corridors, while above ground, forests, rivers, and scenic hiking trails will also keep you exploring.
Where to Camp Near Mammoth Cave National Park: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave
A 2023 Campspot Awards Winner in the category Best Campgrounds for Families, this park is just minutes from Mammoth Cave National Park and the perfect destination for tent, RV, lodge, or camper camping. When you’re not at Mammoth Cave, enjoy some kayaking, hit up the pool and jumping pad, play some mini-golf, and more for a fun-filled camping stay.
15. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located along the shores of Lake Michigan in northern Michigan. Named after the iconic Sleeping Bear Dune, which rises 450 feet above the lake, the park is chock-full of winding trails through forests, over rolling hills, and along the rugged coastline. Visitors can climb the dunes for views of Lake Michigan, swim in Glen Lake, or relax on the shores of one of the park’s many secluded beaches.
Where to Camp Near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Leelanau Pines Campground
Get the best of lakefront camping at this family-friendly campground near Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City. Located on the waters of Lake Leelanau, this camp-resort offers accommodations from luxury cabin rentals to spacious RV sites, as well as access to a swimming area, playground, mini golf course, basketball court, nature trail, and more.
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16. Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore are the larger-than-life sculptures of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Created by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his team over a span of 14 years, the monumental faces serve as a symbol of national pride and unity, representing the ideals of democracy, freedom, and leadership. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States.
Where to Camp Near Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Black Hills Trailside Park Resort
This campground is 10 minutes from Mount Rushmore and walking distance to downtown Hill City, which means attractions, restaurants, and shops are right at your doorstep. Hiking, biking, and ATV trails are aplenty at this park resort, while anglers can catch the brown and rainbow trout in Spring Creek which winds through the property.
Where to Camp Near Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Larsson’s Crooked Creek Resort
Located by all the major attractions in the Southern Hills—including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park—Larsson’s Crooked Creek Resort offers a wide variety of accommodations with RV spots, cabins, a 14-room lodge, and luxury sites. Enjoy musical entertainment and children’s movies, and fill up at the on-site cafe and bakery for your outdoor adventures.
17. Joshua Tree National Park
Named after the distinctive Joshua trees that dot the landscape, Joshua Tree is frequently on the list of trending national parks because of its world-famous granite formations, stargazing opportunities under the clear Californian desert skies, and invitation to experience the quiet majesty of the desert.
Where to Camp Near Joshua Tree National Park: Coachella Lakes RV Resort
If you’re looking for luxury amenities or lodging rentals in the heart of the desert, look no further than Coachella Lakes RV Resort. This stunning property has five lakes, two outdoor pools, three spas, indoor and outdoor exercise facilities, 18-hole putting course, and food trucks—and that’s not even half of it.
18. Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park spans over 200,000 acres along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This mostly forested park encompasses waterfalls, peaks, and wetlands, while abundant hiking trails wind through woodlands and along the park’s famous Skyline Drive. Wildflowers, deer, birds, and black bears abound.
Where to Camp Near Shenandoah National Park: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Luray
This 73-acre campground resort is just a short drive from Shenandoah National Park. After a day of exploring, relax with a swim at the on-site water zone, perfect your swing at the golf course, hit up the arcade, ride the pedal boats, and more. There is zero chance for even a moment of boredom at this family-friendly campground.
Where to Camp Near Shenandoah National Park: Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River
Whether you prefer to park your RV, cozy up in the cabins and cottages, or stay in a stylish Airstream, this premier resort by the Shenandoah River offers modern amenities and exciting activities for an endlessly fun stay. Experience the waterslides, pickleball courts, RC car track, and BMX track when you’re not out on the trails at Shenandoah.
19. Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas has attracted visitors for centuries with its thermal springs. Campers can explore the historic Bathhouse Row, a collection of elegant bath houses built in the early 20th century, and indulge in traditional spa treatments and thermal baths. Beyond the springs, the park’s forests and trails offer plenty of outdoor exploration.
Where to Camp Near Hot Springs National Park: Hot Springs Off-Road Park
Combine your relaxing soak with an adrenaline-pumping wheeling adventure at this campground, which offers an array of lodging options with tent pads, RV sites, and cabins. Featuring a 1,250-acre trail system, this park offers day-use trail passes, memberships, trail guide, and side-by-side rentals for an unforgettable offroading experience.
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20. Redwood National and State Parks
Rounding out our list of trending national parks is Redwood National and State Parks, located along the northern California coast. The park is home to ancient, towering redwood trees and lush coastal forests. Boasting some of the tallest trees on Earth, including the iconic Hyperion which stands over 379 feet tall, the park allows visitors to walk among giants on the hiking trails, along scenic rivers, and through pristine coastal habitats.
Where to Camp Near Redwood National Park: Riverside RV Park
Campers can retreat from their Redwood National Park adventure to the shores of the Klamath River at Riverside RV Park. Have your fill of fishing, boating, rafting, hiking, and kayaking, as well as access to False Klamath Cove, blackberry-picking, or the Redwood Hotel & Casino.
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Don’t Miss Out on These Trending National Parks
Each destination on this list of trending national parks offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you’re seeking awe-inspiring landscapes, outdoor adventure, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, there’s a national park nearby to inspire and delight you. So pack your bags and hit the trails—the adventure awaits!
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Image credit: Adobe Stock user – jon_chica, Adobe Stock user – gottsfam, RedRock RV Park, Yellowstone Hot Springs, Adobe Stock user – Brian, Hadley’s Point Campground, Wild Acadia Camping Resort, Adobe Stock user – SeanPavonePhoto, Mountaineer Campground, Greenbrier Campground, Adobe Stock user – Noradoa, Indian Flat RV Park, Adobe Stock user – Wirestock, Yellowstone Trail RV Park, Adobe Stock user – Sceninc Media, Winding River Resort, Adobe Stock user – aheflin, Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway, Adobe Stock user – Ricktravel, Mountain Meadow RV Park & Cabins, Adobe Stock user – micah, Dark Sky RV Campground, Hitch-N-Post RV Park, Adobe Stock user – RbbrDckyBK, Roadrunner Travelers Campground, Maverick Ranch RV Park, Adobe Stock user – Dean Pennala, Munising Tourist Park Campground, Woodland Park Campground, Adobe Stock user – fertatay, Camp Ikigai at Ikigai Animal Sanctuary, Adobe Stock user – Amineah, Woody Mountain Campground, Adobe Stock user – Wangkun Jia, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave, Adobe Stock user – Keith Klosterman, Leelanau Pines Campground, Adobe Stock user – ExploringandLiving, Blackhills Trailside Park Resort, Larsson’s Crooked Creek Resort, Adobe Stock user – Doug, Coachella Lakes RV Resort, Adobe Stock user – Tyler Rickenbach, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Luray, Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River, Adobe Stock user – Zack Frank, Hot Springs Off-Road Park, Adobe Stock user – khomlyak, Riverside RV Park