trekking camping trip

• 1 800 970 7299
• Live Chat (Online) Live Chat (Offline)
• My Wishlist
• Find a Trip

Your browser 'Internet Explorer' is out of date. Update your browser for more security, comfort and the best experience on this site.

Hiking & Backpacking Tours

• Destinations
• United States
• Hiking & Backpacking Tours

When it comes to immersing yourself in the great outdoors, nothing beats camping in the wilderness beneath a sky full of sparkling stars.

Have all the fun of an adventurous outdoor experience without any of the organizational hassle by embarking on a  hiking & backpacking tour  through some of the  USA’s most captivating landscapes  – the Intrepid way. Take in the sights of national treasures like  Zion National Park , Joshua Tree National Park, and Olympic National Park during the day, and at night, help your guide set up camp, swap stories with your fellow travelers, and let the sounds of Mother Nature slowly sing you to sleep. Simply put, unforgettable doesn’t even begin to describe it. 

Backpacking vs base camp vs hut-to-hut

Backpacking

Our backpacking trips are all about switching off and getting back to basics. Say goodbye to running water, and hello to cathole toilets! Carrying a backpack loaded with camping gear, personal items and group supplies, you’ll hike through untamed backcountry and set up a new camp each day with your group. Two words: pack light.

Our base camp trips are perfect if you don’t want to lug a backpack around, or if you'd prefer to camp with a few extra creature comforts. After enjoying daily hikes on front country trails, you’ll return to the same campsite each day equipped with proper toilets, showers, bigger tents and a camp kitchen.

If you’re an adventurous type who also likes sleeping on a real mattress (we don't blame you), our hut-to-hut trips could be for you. You’ll still need to carry your backpack as you hike through the backcountry, but you’ll stay in huts each night that range from basic bunkhouses to comfortable motels depending on the trip.

Our backpacking tours

Hiking and backpacking in yellowstone, 4 days from 1605.

See the best of Yellowstone on an Intrepid small group hiking and camping adventure...

Hiking and Backpacking Yellowstone's Bechler River Traverse

5 days from 2045.

Avoid the crowds and see the best of Southern Yellowstone National Park’s backcountry...

Hiking and Backpacking North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains

3 days from 1070.

Discover great trails, incredible views, spectacular summits and more on a small group...

Our base camp tours

Hiking and camping in zion, 3 days from 1560.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park as a standalone canyon country experience...

Hiking and Camping in Joshua Tree

4 days from 1775.

Experience Joshua Tree’s surreal landscapes, cool oases, and famous Joshua Trees on a 4...

Hiking and Camping in Yellowstone

5 days from 2230.

See the best of this iconic national park on five spectacularly diverse, hand-picked...

Hiking and Camping in Utah

6 days from 2360.

Experience Utah’s most famous national park destinations and see the best of Zion,...

Our hut-to-hut tours 

Hike new hampshire's appalachian trail and presidential peaks, 4 days from 1895.

Spend an incredible 4 days hiking the highest mountains in New Hampshire, the...

Highlights of our hiking & backpacking tours

Take in the sights of Yellowstone National Park

Leave the busy roads and noisy sounds of everyday life behind as you embark on an adventure through one of the USA’s most beloved parks. Brimming with epic natural features, Yellowstone National Park boasts landscapes that need to be seen to be believed and luckily for you, you’ll get to see them all on hikes during the day before resting your body and camping out under the stars every night. 

Marvel at the natural wonders in Yosemite

If you’re searching for remarkable sights that’ll give your camera its hardest workout yet, then search no longer – Yosemite National Park’s North Rim offers all that and so much more. Perfect for both outdoor enthusiasts and hardcore hikers, this trail boasts giant waterfalls, majestic peaks, and flower-filled meadows you’re bound to ooh and ahh over. And at night, set up camp, enjoy a hearty meal, and fall asleep under the night sky’s twinkling stars. 

Explore Utah's wild west

Picture this: you wake up to the peaceful sounds of Mother Nature and have your morning coffee surrounded by spring-fed creeks, huge canyons and colourful cliffs. Spend six days hiking in Utah ’s most iconic national parks and watch these otherworldly landscapes come alive. Trek through Bryce Canyon’s awe-inspiring “hoodoos” and natural amphitheatres, wade through the rushing waters of Zion’s slot canyons, and explore the labyrinth of potholes, arches, and grottos in the dreamy Escalante. 

Hike the Appalachian Trail

Explore one of the most beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail on a three-day backcountry adventure through the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll journey deep into the wilderness of the Cradle of Forestry, wind through postcard-perfect grassy meadows and witness the majestic cascades of Looking Glass Falls – maybe jumping in for a swim to cool down. The best part? You’ll camp on the summit of the spectacular Shining Rock and enjoy lunch on huge ledges overlooking the rolling plains of Ivestor Gap.

Popular US National Parks

Our  US National Park Tours  offer something for all kinds of adventurers, explore our range below.

Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Denali National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Zion National Park

Glacier National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Badlands National Park

Death Valley National Park

Arches National Park

Olympic National Park

Mount Rainier National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

Winter hiking and snowshoeing tours

Walking and trekking tours

Our hiking & backpacking tour reviews, essential info & faqs, what's the range of backpacking and hiking trips available.

We offer a wide range of all-inclusive backpacking and hiking tours in some of the USA's best national parks and scenic trails. Apart from getting yourself to the meeting point and bringing your personal items, everything is organised and provided for you including an expert hiking guide, permits and fees, meals, and most camping and hiking gear. Our trips range from base camp tours that include easy to moderate day hikes on front country trails to multi-day backpacking or hut-to-hut adventures in high mountains and backcountry routes. 

What do I have to carry when we hike?

On our backpacking and hut-to-hut tours you'll need to carry a backpack that weighs between 25-45 lbs (11-20 kg) depending on the itinerary and season. It'll be loaded will be with your personal items (clothing, camera, toiletries, water bladder, etc), camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc), and a portion of the group's food supplies or camping gear. Base camp tours are a bit different – we'll return to the same campsite each day so you can leave your main bag at camp. You'll still need a small daypack to carry your water bottle, snacks, camera and any other essential items while we're out hiking. 

Should I bring/pack anything special?

We'll provide you with camping gear including a daypack, trekking poles, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and pillow. Essentials you'll need to bring from home include a three-litre water bladder or bottle, hiking clothes and boots, headlamp, toiletries and medication, camera and any other personal items you might need. Just remember, it's no fun lugging a really heavy bag around so try to pack as light as possible. 

How fit do I need to be to join?

While our range of backpacking and hiking trips differ in difficulty, it is recommended that you have a reasonable level of fitness so that the tour's enjoyable and you can get the most out of your holiday. To do this, try participating in some form of physical activity (such as long walks, running, cycling, etc) at least six weeks out from your trip. It's also a good idea to do some shorter test hikes with a backpack or something similar so you can become comfortable carrying your gear when the trip comes. 

To help you choose the trip with the right level of difficulty, our team will forward an assessment form to you at the time of booking, and we will be open to discussing your choice and making suggestions if need be. You won't be confirmed for the trip until your form has been received and reviewed. 

What sort of safety precautions are taken?

We value the safety of our customers, staff and fellow travellers very highly so you can rest assured that you'll be safe throughout the duration of your trip. Our leaders are well-trained and experienced (as well as insured) and don't cut corners when it comes to the wellbeing and safety of others. This means we only take well-researched trails and listen to all safety warnings when it comes to changing weather conditions. 

Do I need special insurance for backpacking trips?

The short answer is no and yes - you won't need any extra insurance to cover any additional or technical activities that come with a backpacking and hiking trip but you will need to have an insurance policy that covers activities such as hiking and trekking. To make sure you're appropriately covered, we recommend presenting your insurer with the trip's itinerary.

Are backpacking and hiking trips accessible?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Do I need a COVID-19 vaccine to join a backpacking and hiking trip?

Travellers on this particular trip are not required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. However, any guest who has been in close contact with someone known to have COVID-19, or who develops flu-like symptoms (cough, fever, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, body aches/chills, recent loss of taste or smell), or who tests positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of their scheduled trip will not be allowed to join the trip without a negative COVID-19 test result.

Read more about North America

Apr 18, 2019

How to make the most of 24 hours in....

Atlanta, Georgia, is the birthplace of the civil rights movement, Coca-Cola and…...

Dec 04, 2018

7 reasons why you should go on a....

You'll learn the infamous art of the moose call, among other things.

Dec 05, 2019

Vegan vegetarian food intolerances....

Two vegans, one vegetarian, one lactose intolerant and one gluten intolerant...

Jan 29, 2024

California or florida which us state....

Sometimes you just need a blog to tell you which US state you have to visit...

Sep 02, 2022

The top 8 destinations for travel in....

From getting off the beaten track in Romania to witnessing the great wildebeest...

Jun 28, 2022

Off the beaten path: how to explore....

Joining forces with legendary backcountry trekking group, Wildland, Intrepid has...

Nov 08, 2018

How to have the ultimate family....

If you’re after a family adventure beyond the gated mega-resorts, here are 5...

Jul 01, 2017

15 places in canada that will give....

Say the word 'Canada' and it's likely that a desktop background-esque scene...

May 16, 2017

A guide to mérida, mexico’s most....

Many Mexicans agree that Mérida is one of the most beautiful cities in the Yucatán...

Jun 03, 2017

5 towns in mexico’s highlands to....

Here are five colonial towns in the highlands of Mexico that will make you forget...

Feb 24, 2023

Navigating history, culture and power....

Intrepid traveller Anela Malik raises important questions about Black history and...

Sep 07, 2022

Travel is back and we just dropped 10....

After two-and-a-bit years of lockdowns, border closures and travel plans being put...

Dec 31, 2022

23 new travel experiences for 2023 .

It’s a new year, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time for another adventure!

May 11, 2021

Into the wild: top 10 national parks....

From deserts, canyons and mountains, to alpine forests, lakes, tropical reefs,...

Sep 07, 2021

A feast for the eyes and stomach:....

Looking for somewhere to relax and gobble up the views? Check out some of best...

Nov 19, 2017

Ribs, rock ‘n’ roll and raucous times....

Skipping America's Deep South is a big, fat, deep-fried, sugar-coated, bourbon...

Mar 15, 2022

8 new usa experiences that amplify....

Want to learn Cajun cuisine from the only female-owned African American cooking...

Oct 16, 2018

5 of the usa’s best road trips (and....

We take a look five of the United States’ most iconic road trips, with a guide to...

Nov 28, 2019

Southern hospitality is a thing. here....

From Nashville to Savannah and beyond, old school values and charm make the USA's...

Aug 20, 2021

11 amazing things to do in denali....

Denali National Park is packed with adventures to delight and excite travelers of...

Take a walk on the wild side: 8 of...

Hiking in Zion gives a whole new meaning to walking on the wild side. Check out...

8 incredible hikes in Denali National...

Check out some of the must-do hiking trails for your trip to Denali National Park.

Aug 16, 2021

The 8 best hikes in yellowstone....

Let your curiosity lead the way on one of Yellowstone's iconic hiking trails.

Oct 09, 2022

Canada or alaska which natural....

The easiest decision you've made all year...not.

• Partnerships
• Guest Post Submission

Backpacking , Camping , Hiking

Backpacking for beginners: ultimate guide.

In this guide we’ll go over the basics of backpacking for beginners, including how to get started, what to pack, and of course answering the frequently asked question:  What is backpacking?

You may have heard the words  backpacking  and  backcountry  thrown around in talks with outdoor enthusiasts. You’ve heard your friends talk about that incredible backpacking trip they did last summer, or you’ve read about our  backcountry adventures in Olympic National Park . 

Backcountry: The elusive  place  with the most epic wilderness, wildlife spotting, surreal views… you get the idea. Backcountry means off-the-grid, right? Remote. Undeveloped. And hard to get to. 

So you may be wondering… What exactly is backpacking?

Don’t worry, we’ll get there!

Below we’ll get into the basics of backpacking for beginners, including answering the frequently asked question:  What is backcountry camping?

Backpacking guide

• What is backpacking
• What is backcountry camping

What to expect when backpacking

Backcountry basics.

• What to pack for the backcountry
• Best gear for backpacking

Here are some of our most recommended backcountry guides

• Hiking the Enchantments: A Trail Guide

• Best 2-Person Tents for Camping & Backpacking

Backpacking Meals: Guide to Meal Planning for the Trail

If you’re looking for more of our backpacking guides, you can click below to go to that resource page.

And now to answer your biggest question…

What is backpacking?

Backpacking is an outdoor adventure that combines hiking with camping and usually takes place in remote areas known as the backcountry. 

The name comes from the idea that you have to carry all of your equipment and gear on your back. Unlike with day hikes, when backpacking you’ll have a much larger pack to accommodate your tent, food, water and other supplies for an overnight (sometimes multi-night) stay in the wilderness. 

Backpacking goes hand-in-hand with backcountry camping. In fact, the two are oftentimes used interchangeably. 

Which brings us to the next question…

What is backcountry camping?

Backcountry camping is spending the night in the remote wilderness carrying in all your own gear on foot. To get the full outdoor experience and immerse oneself in nature, backcountry camping is the best way to go. 

Backcountry campsites are set up in remote areas of the backcountry, but lack the conveniences and amenities like running water, restrooms and RV hookups. 

What can you expect at a backcountry campsite?

It depends, but generally, you can expect some or all of the following:

• Logs to sit on
• Fire pit (depending on location)
• Privy (rustic drop toilet)
• Food storage options (in bear country)

When backcountry camping at a designated campsite, you’ll typically find a  tent pad , or flat clear spot to set up your tent. If you’re lucky, there might be some logs set up to sit on and perhaps a rustic fire pit. (If you’re camping at high elevation or in areas susceptible to wildfire, you won’t find the latter.) 

Many designated backcountry campgrounds also have a primitive outhouse called a  privy.  This is for all campers in the area to share, and depending on where your site is located in relation to the toilet, it may or may not be very convenient.

Lastly, if you’re camping in bear country, there will likely be some sort of food storage option. This may be a bear pole, from which you can hang your food pack.

Insider Tip:  Check with the closest ranger station to see if there are places to hang your food along the trail. If not, you’ll want to carry a bear canister.

Dispersed Camping

Another type of backcountry camping is known as  dispersed camping .  This term refers to the practice of setting up your tent in a completely “wild” and unestablished area that has not been reserved for camping. 

Some National and State parks and forests allow for dispersed camping, but it is often only permitted in limited areas. It’s best to check the local backcountry camping rules beforehand. 

Dispersed Camping: What is It & How to Find Dispersed Campsites

When it comes to backpacking for beginners, here are a few things you can expect when out on the trail.

More planning & more work

When backpacking in the backcountry, you’ll need to hike in and hike out with all of your gear. Unlike with car camping where you can drive all your gear up to your site, this means you’ll need to carry your own shelter (tent), sleeping gear, water supply, food and any other gear you may have. 

You should also be prepared for unexpected situations with basic first aid, off-line navigation, a water purification system and bear canister to safely store your food (if you’re camping in bear country).  

Backcountry camping certainly requires a bit more planning and preparation than your typical car camping scenario. We’ll go over all the necessary gear in the backcountry essentials section below. 

Permits may be required 

Oftentimes when backpacking in National Parks or other protected areas, you’ll need a backcountry or wilderness permit that you’ll have to arrange ahead of time. 

Depending on the area, these limited permits go on sale months in advance (usually on Recreation.gov ) and sell out very quickly. Typically, they also save a certain number of permits saved for first-come-first-serve. In this case, you’ll need to be at the ranger station or information center in person to try to snag a spot. 

Insider Tip: In popular areas, you’ll want to get to the ranger station as early as possible. For example, in  Grand Teton National Park , we got to the station 2 hours before they opened, and we were still about number 20 in line.

It’s best to do a little research beforehand on the location you would like to camp to see what the rules and regulations are around permitting. 

You may have company

Just because you’re in the backcountry doesn’t mean you’ll be totally, 100% alone. Depending on where exactly you are backpacking, they may have multiple campsites set up relatively close to one another, in which case you’ll have neighbors. Typically, people who are camping in the wilderness tend to be respectful, and we’ve never really had any issues. (Car camping is a whole different scenario!)

In other wilderness settings, your campsite might be pretty secluded and not near anyone else. Our advice is to be open to either situation or do a little research in advance to see what to expect.

A basic understanding of the fundamentals of surviving in the wilderness will go a long way when preparing for a backpacking trip. To have a safe and comfortable experience, you’ll want to master a few skills before you hit the trails. 

Water purification 

Plumbing is not an amenity you can expect in the undeveloped backcountry. You’ll be responsible for your own water supply. Since water can be very heavy to carry all the water you’ll need, we’d recommend a water purification system so you can refill from a lake or river. 

Why do I need to purify my water?

Even if the water in a remote lake or stream looks crystal clear,  it’s still important to purify it.  Nearby wildlife use the water sources, making them a very likely carrier of some nasty illnesses, like giardia. Google it if you need a graphic reminder as to  why  you need to take the time to sterilize your water.

How can I purify my water?

There are plenty of ways to safely purify your drinking water from UV light to pump systems to tablets and built-in filters. Some systems work better than others in certain situations. 

We’ve recommended a few of our favorite water purification products in the backcountry essentials list below. But it’s also a good idea to consult with experts at your local outdoor stores (like REI) as well as with park rangers. They can be very helpful in determining which system is right for you and the location in which you’ll be camping.

Where can I fill up my water?

Before heading out on any backcountry camping trip, it’s important to understand exactly where the water fill-up points are. 

If you’re camping in an area where there are no water sources, like the desert, the beach, or certain mountain terrain, you will need to make sure you have enough water packed for drinking, cooking and cleaning up. It’s probably more than you think! For this reason, we’d recommend first-time backpackers stick to locations where there are several water fill opportunities.

Off-line Navigation

Understanding how to navigate is an important skill when going off-the-grid. It should come as no surprise that oftentimes, you will have no cell service coverage in the backcountry. And you can bet you won’t be finding any wifi hotspots!

You’ll want to be prepared for your backcountry camping trip with off-line methods of navigation such as an actual handheld paper map and compass. We also like to download the offline map of our route from AllTrails on our backpacking trips. 

Important:  If you plan to use digital maps (aka on your cell phone), you must carry a reliable way to keep your device charged for your entire trip. For longer backpacking trips, it’s best to stick to the good old fashioned paper map and compass so you don’t run out of battery.

Good to know:  To be able to download the offline version of these maps, you must be a Pro Member of AllTrails . It is $30 annually (discounted if you opt for more than one year), and in our opinions, it is totally worth the money. We rarely pay for apps, but this is one that we will likely never go without. AllTrails has maps all over the world, so it’s great to use even when you travel internationally.

Psst! Get your first week of using Alltrails+ for FREE when you sign up using our link !

Cooking over an open fire or camp stove

Since you have to carry in all of your own food supplies, you will need to pack lightweight backpacking meals that can be easily cooked on the trail. 

We like making our own backpacking meals with dehydrated ingredients, but you can pick up a decent variety at most outdoor stores. In their simplest form, dehydrated meals can be prepared by pouring boiling water into the meal packet and letting it sit for a few minutes. This is nice because there is little clean-up involved (aka no dishes to do!). 

With a little more complicated meals, you may need to actually cook the meal with water in a pot over a flame. This will result in some dishes, but may be a better option depending on the type of meal you bring.

In addition to 3 meals a day, you’ll also want to bring plenty of  healthy hiking snacks  for the journey as well since you’ll be using all sorts of energy to hike and set up camp.

Insider Tip:  If this is your first time cooking backpacking meals, we’d recommend doing a “test run” at home just so you know how it’s done and exactly what tools to bring. You don’t want to end up in the middle of nowhere and unable to make a decent meal.

• Backpacking Meals: Guide to Meal Planning on the Trail

Food storage 

A lot of the backcountry wilderness  —  especially the Western part of the United States  —  is home to wild animals like bears that can be attracted to the scent of food (or other smelly items!). 

It is incredibly important that you properly store your food and any other items that smell (like deodorant, hand sanitizer and toothpaste!) at all times. 

Why do I need to store your food?

Glad you asked! 

Your safety

The wellbeing of wildlife.

• To prevent small critters from stealing your food (oh, hell no!)

The first major reason for properly storing your food is for your own safety. In regions that are known for bears, this can mean the difference between life and death. We don’t say this to scare you, but there have been incidents of people being seriously injured (or even killed) because they haven’t properly stored their food. 

When you are in the wilderness,  you  are the visitor, and you’re playing by the animals’ rules. 

Animals have very good senses of smell and will be able to detect food from a long distance (yes, even if your chocolate bar is stuffed deep inside your backpack). This can entice them to get close to humans and to eat human food, neither of which are healthy for wildlife.

Keep them (and yourself!) safe by storing your food properly.

To prevent your food from being stolen

Obviously, it’s really scary to think about a bear approaching camp, but in reality it’s a lot more likely that your smelly food will attract smaller critters  —  think mice, squirrels, marmots, raccoons, etc. Trust me when I say you don’t want these guys coming into your camp and nibbling through your gear.

One more thing:  If you’re camping in bear country, you’ll likely want to bring bear spray with you as well.

How do I know if I need to store my food?

It’s always good practice to store your food separately from your campsite. But to determine if you need a bear-safe method, check with the closest ranger station. They will have all sorts of good information for you.

How can I store my food?

There are a few different methods for safely storing your food in the backcountry. 

1. Bear canister :  This is a plastic container that is somewhat difficult to open (aka think of a childproof pill container). When you are storing your food and toiletries, you should put the canister at least 100 meters downwind of your tent.

Pro: Bear canisters are easy because you don’t need to be camped by a tree in order to hang your food. 

Con: These can be heavy and bulky, which is something to consider especially on longer backpacking trips.

Tip: If you don’t have your own bear canister for food storage, you can usually rent one (sometimes they are even free of charge) from one of the nearby ranger stations. 

2. Hanging your food pack:  Another way to store your food safely is to hang it. 

At some established backcountry sites, there will be a free standing “bear pole” or wires from which you can hang your bag. Some people will hang their entire backpack, but we prefer to carry a lightweight dry bag and just hang that.

At less established backcountry campgrounds where there isn’t a dedicated bear pole or wire, it’s still possible to hang your food pack. The tricky part is you’ll need to find a tree that works, and it can be a little more difficult that it might sound. 

To actually be hung properly (where large animals cannot get to it), you’ll need to make sure that the food pack is high enough from the ground as well as far enough from the trunk of the tree. Ideally, this means the pack will hang 15 feet from the ground and 10 feet from the trunk.

For more information, check out this  step-by-step guide  from the Washington Trails Association.

Psst!  Be sure that you have a rope if you plan on hanging your pack from a tree.

3. Food lockers:  You won’t often find these at backcountry sites, but it’s another option worth mentioning. 

Some campgrounds have metal storage containers for storing food inside. However, you should be prepared to follow one of the methods above as it’s unlikely your wilderness site will have a locker.

Leave No Trace principles

If you haven’t heard of the 7 principles of Leave No Trace , it’s important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines and follow them anytime you are in the wilderness. 

The idea is that you leave any place you visit in the same condition as you found it (or better) so that you don’t impact the environment and others are able to enjoy the same experience as you.

7 Principles:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly (this generally means carry out any waste you carry in)
• Leave what you find
• Minimize campfire impacts (be careful with fire and under no circumstances should you light a fire during a fire ban)
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors

The 7 principles of Leave No Trace (& why you should care!)

Weather warning signs and safety 

Check the weather before your trip and get to know the weather patterns in the area. We always like to stop at the closest ranger station, as they typically have the most accurate weather forecasts for the wilderness areas nearby and can provide more information than you’ll find online.

Understand the warning signs of severe weather. Weather can change drastically while you’re in the backcountry (even if it’s not forecasted), so it’s good to be prepared with proper clothing and shelter. 

Tip: It’s always a good idea to pack rain gear, even if it’s not predicted to rain. You’ll also want to have warm layers, even if it is predicted to be hot.

First aid and prevention 

Consider learning some basic first aid before your backcountry trip. It’ll help you know what to do if something should happen while you’re completely disconnected from other people and even better, how to prevent accidents from happening.  

Important: It’s good to understand what everything is inside your First Aid Kit. You may need to add items depending on how many people are in your party and how long your trip is.

Proper clothing

Make sure you are outfitted with proper clothing, including lots of layers while backcountry camping. It may be hot during the day while you are hiking in, but when the sun goes down the temperatures can drop drastically. Know what the climate is in the area and  what to wear hiking  to make sure you’re comfortable on your trip. 

This may go without saying, but you should come prepared with a proper shelter for backcountry camping. If it’s a tent, be sure you know how to set it up before you are in the woods in the middle of nowhere and the sun is setting and it’s getting darker by the minute. 

If you prefer sleeping under the stars (in a hammock let’s say), be sure you are prepared for the weather and have a bug net or bug repellant if necessary.

Backcountry essentials (aka what to pack!)

It may seem like you need a ton of new gear to go backpacking, but that’s not entirely true…

There are plenty of ways to collect backpacking gear at a low cost, and in some cases even FREE! We put together a guide for how to get camping and outdoor gear for cheap to tell you exactly how.

The good news is, once you have the basics, these pieces can last you years until you’re ready to reinvest. Below is our list of items we typically take on every backpacking trip.

• Get your first week of using Alltrails+ for FREE when you  sign up using our link !
• Decent backpacking pack that is well-fitted to suit your body type and size
• Lightweight tent (check out the  best 2-person tents ) 
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad
• Plenty of layers (here is a great resource if you’re wondering  what to wear hiking )
• Rain jacket
• Hiking shoes (boots,  hiking sandals  or cross trainers – depending on what works best for you in the environment you choose)
• Wool hiking socks
• First Aid kit
• Bug spray (we prefer the  natural stuff )
• Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, sun glasses
• Insulated water bottle(s) and/or bladder for your Camelbak
• Water purification (we love our  Steripen , but find our  Grayl filtered water bottles  work really well on backpacking trips!)
• Dry bag  (we always carry one with us for our valuables in case of rain)
• Bear spray  (when camping in bear country)
• Bear canister
• Rope (if you plan to hang your food bag, or for hanging sweaty/wet clothes)
• Toilet kit: toilet paper, small shovel, bag for packing out TP, hand sanitizer
• Bag for your trash
• Camp stove/fuel (we love our Jetboil !)
• Food (see section below)
• Biodegradable soap and small towel

*If you choose to us your phone for navigation, be sure to bring a reliable battery pack to charge your phone

**Don’t forget to pack your permit! Lots of backcountry camping requires a permit and you may be asked by a ranger along the way to show proof of your reservation. Typically, you must attach this to your backpack while hiking and to the outside of your tent once you’ve set up camp.

Optional gear

• Camp chairs (we like our  Crazy Creek chairs )
• Battery pack
• Fire starter
• Fishing pole (be sure you know the regulations about fishing in the area)
• Inflatable solar lantern
• Deck of cards
• Camera and tripod ( this is our favorite for hiking)
• ENO hammock  (we love our 2-person ENO shown above!)
• Book or Kindle
• Notebook and pen/pencil
• Hiking poles
• Shoes for at camp: We like to wear our Chacos sandals at camp as it’s nice to be able to change out of the boots we’ve been wearing all day. Some people like hiking with lightweight Crocs or flip flops for a comfy option at camp.
• Inflatable camping pillow
• Kula cloth : reusable pee cloth for women (Yep, sounds weird, but it has a cult following. I’m new to this, but am loving it so far!)
• Dehydrated meals (we like making our own backpacking meals with dehydrated ingredients, but you can pick up a decent variety at most outdoor stores)
• Snacks: check out our  favorite hiking snacks here !
• Coffee: here’s how to make the best camping coffee !

Best backpacks for backpacking

• Our favorite backpacks:  Osprey Renn 50 Men’s / Women’s
• Best ultralight backpack:  Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 40L
• Best budget backpack:  REI Flash 55 Men’s / Women’s

Backpacks are highly personal and really depend on what works best for each individual’s body size and preferences. It is really important that you find a pack that is fitted for your body and adjusted to balance the weight correctly.

We’ve found the best service for this is at REI, where you can go and try on different style packs and have a customer service member help you with the adjustments.

Keep in mind how long of a backpacking trip you’re planning as well as how much and what specific items you’ll need to carry when choosing a pack.

Best tents for backpacking

• Our recommendation:   Marmot Tungsten 3P Tent with Footprint
• Best ultralight backpacking tent:  Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2
• Best budget backpacking tent: Kelty Late Start 2 Tent

Choosing a tent for backpacking will depend on how much space you want. Even though we are just 2 people, we tend to carry our 3-person tent on backpacking trips to give us a bit more space to spread out and store our gear if necessary.

If you are just one person, you may be able to save weight and space with a single, but it might also be a good idea to look into a double for comfort-sake.

We always recommend having a tent with a rain cover and footprint (or carrying a separate tarp) to protect from the elements.

Best 2-Person Tents for Camping & Backpacking

Best sleeping bags for backpacking

• Our recommendation / best 3-season sleeping bag:  NEMO Disco Down Sleeping Bag
• Best ultralight sleeping bag:  Sea to Summit Spark Ultralight 40F Sleeping Bag
• Best budget sleeping bag (warm weather only):  REDCAMP Ultra Lightweight sleeping bag

When hunting for a sleeping bag that will keep you warm and toasty in the chilly mountain air, a good rule of thumb is to look for a bag rated at least 10 degrees lower than the temperature outside during your backpacking trip. 

So if you check the forecast and see overnight temperatures in the low 50s, you’ll want a sleeping bag rated at 40°F or lower. 

Aside from temperature ratings, the other feature that makes a massive difference is what your sleeping bag is filled with. Synthetic filling is common, but goose down is preferred by a lot of camping enthusiasts because it keeps you warmer in cold weather due to the sleeping bag’s warmth-to-weight ratio. 

Just remember that if a down sleeping bag gets wet, it loses a lot of its insulation abilities, so be sure to keep it dry and bring a  waterproof stuff sack  to pack it into.

Best sleeping pads for backpacking

• Our recommendation:  Sea to Summit Ultralight Insulated Air Sleeping Pad
• Best insulated sleeping pad:  NEMO Tensor Alpine Air Pad
• Best budget sleeping pad:  POWERLIX Ultralight Sleeping Pad

A good sleeping bag is an essential for us, but the other element for a solid sleep set up is a quality sleeping pad.

Out of all the gear you’ll need for backpacking, a sleeping pad is going to make the biggest difference in overnight comfort. 

Tip: R-value is the measurement of insulation for sleeping pads and they range from 1.0-8.0. When shopping for sleeping pads, you’ll want to find something with a value of 4.0+ if you plan to hike in cooler weather conditions, since those are rated for all-season and winter use.

You may also like…

• How to Get Outdoor & Camping Gear for Cheap

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Comment below if you have any more questions about backpacking and backcountry camping, and we’ll do our best to get back to you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Table of contents

The Ultimate Camping Checklist

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

Whether you love planning logistics and packing for a camping trip or tend to leave it to the last minute, it’s important to make sure you have all of the essentials. At CleverHiker, we love for all things planning so we put together this checklist to help make packing easy and stress-free.

To determine what gear you need to bring on your trip, ask yourself these questions:

• What is the weather forecast for the specific area I’ll be in?  Look up the weather forecast for the entirety of your trip and take the lowest low and the highest high as the temperature range you need to plan for. If precipitation is in the forecast, you’ll need waterproof outer layers as well.
• Are you going to a campground or a primitive campsite?  This will help you determine whether or not there will be picnic tables, fire pits, bathroom facilities, water, and electricity. You’ll obviously need to pack a bit differently for primitive camping.
• What activities would you like to do?  You get to decide how you want to spend your time in the outdoors. Complete your gear list with the items you need to make hiking, fishing, biking, playing games, or just relaxing in camp enjoyable.
• How luxurious do you want your camp to be?  Think of your campsite as a blank canvas where you can set up as much or as little as you’d like to make it your own. Some people take great pride in setting up elaborate, cushy camps, while others prefer to take a more minimalistic approach.

Starting from Scratch?

While this gear list may look intimidating at first, you don’t need every single item here, and you’ll probably find that you already have a lot of these items around your house.

Start by gathering the important basics like your shelter and sleep system first, then expand from there.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider renting or borrowing big-ticket items to get you started. Your camping supplies will upgrade and evolve as you go on more trips and grow to love camping.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE PRINTABLE CHECKLIST (Change margins to ‘narrow’ when printing)

Site Gear/Furniture

• Chairs ( camping / backpacking )
• Hammock + tree straps
• Outdoor rug
• Tablecloth ( clips )
• Clothesline ( clothes pins )
• Clear plastic bins to store items
• Insect repellent (or Thermacell )
• Sit pads for insulation on chairs

Primitive Site Gear

(when water, toilets, & electricity aren’t available)

• Water filter/purification
• Collapsible water bottles or large water container
• Trowel / shovel (when outhouses aren’t available)
• Toilet waste bag
• Portable camp shower

Shelter/Bedding

• Tent ( camping / backpacking )
• Stakes + guylines + mallet
• Sleeping bag ( camping / backpacking )
• Sleeping pad , mattress , or cot
• Air pump or pump sack
• Camping blanket(s)
• Sunshade , tarp, or screen house ( stakes + guylines )
• Duct tape + Tenacious tape (repairs)

Electronics

• Power bank & extra batteries
• Phone & charger
• Tripod & wireless shutter remote
• Lantern or tent lights
• Headphones or speaker to play music

CONSUMABLES

• Ice for cooler
• Food & snacks (or freeze-dried meals )
• Coffee/tea/creamer
• Cooking oil or non-stick spray

CAMP KITCHEN

• Stove + fuel ( camping / backpacking )
• Lighter or matches
• Cookware ( camping / backpacking )
• Cooking utensils (spatula, ladle, etc.)
• Grill rack / dutch oven (to cook over fire)
• Coffee maker
• Travel mug(s)
• Water bottle(s) or hydration pack
• Dishes + utensils
• Cutting board + knife
• Biodegradable soap + sponge
• Dishwashing basin (or plastic bin)
• Pack towel or paper towels
• Food containers , Ziploc bags + foil
• Bags for garbage & recycling
• Bottle opener / corkscrew
• Measuring cups / spoons
• Paracord + food bag (for bear country)

CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

• Hiking pants ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Shorts ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Short-sleeve shirt & sun shirt ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Underwear ( Men’s / Women’s )
• Down jacket and/or fleece jacket
• Windbreaker and/or rain jacket (depending on forecast)
• Base layers
• Shoes & socks
• Hats (1 warm , 1 for sun )
• Swimsuit & pack towel
• Sandals ( Men’s / Women’s ) or camp shoes
• Bandana or washcloth

PERSONAL GEAR

• Knife or multitool
• Wallet (cash, credit card, ID)
• First-aid kit
• Sunscreen + lip balm
• Toiletries (shampoo, lotion, etc.)
• Prescription Rx
• Toilet Paper
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel toothbrush, paste + floss
• Comb / brush
• Ear plugs + sleep mask
• Permits/reservations/fees/licenses
• Check weather forecast

CAMPFIRE SUPPLIES

• Fire starter (egg cartons also work well)
• Matches or lighter
• Firewood (if unavailable near campsite)
• Tarp (to cover wood + protect car)
• Roasting forks for s’mores

FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

• Games ( dice , cards, etc.)
• Reading material, notebook / sketchbook & pen
• Instruments
• Fishing gear
• Books / maps / field guides
• Dog gear (dishes, leash, longline, bed)

Camping Tips

Staying organized.

It’s really easy to keep your camping gear organized by using clear plastic bins with lids. You can see what’s inside each one at a glance and slide them easily in and out of the car. The bins also keep your items contained and protected from dust and critters in camp. And, as an added benefit, your stuff will always be stored in one place at home – ready to go for your next adventure. All you’ll have to do next time you want to head out is quickly go through the bins with your checklist, add clothing, restock consumables, and you’re good to go.

Camping Food

The camp kitchen and your food system will vary greatly depending on how much or little you want to cook on your camping trip. Some people prefer to bring mostly cold or prepared foods, while others enjoy whipping up gourmet meals at their campsite.

Deciding whether you’d prefer not to cook, to cook on a stove, use a grill, or over a fire will help you figure out what to pack and what kind of food to shop for. We usually prefer to prep and combine some ingredients at home, then do some simple cooking on a stove in camp. Taking the time to make a meal plan before your trip will make your role as camp chef much easier and more fun.

Check out our Easy Camping Recipes That Taste Gourmet post for meal ideas. We also have a ton of other food-related resources that work for both camping and backpacking.

Stay Cool, Cooler

A quality cooler will have thick insulation to help keep it cold for a long time. But even the best cooler will lose its cool after a day or two on hot summer trips.

Use these tips to help your cooler perform to its max potential, keeping food safe and drinks ice-cold, the way we like ‘em:

• Pre-chill both your food and your cooler before you load it for the best start
• The fuller your cooler is, the less trapped warm air has to cool, so choose one that isn’t too large and top it up whenever possible
• Separate your drinks from your food in two smaller coolers instead of one large one to reduce the number of times people open them
• Cover your cooler with a blanket, sleeping bag, or pad, and keep it in the shade

If you’re in the market for a new cooler, check out our list of the  Best Coolers .

Garbage in Camp

It’s a good practice to keep your campsite clean and free of litter to keep birds, rodents, bears, and other wildlife from getting a taste for human food. It really doesn’t take much to follow Leave No Trace protocol and it improves the way you experience your campsite too.

We try to separate garbage from recyclables whenever we can. Dispose of garbage in campground receptacles when you leave your site unattended or store foods items and garbage in your car. In bear country, it’s a good idea to keep your food in a bear locker, store it in your car, or properly hang a food bag like the Ursack .

First Aid Kits

You can’t be prepared for absolutely everything, but you should have what you need to take care of minor cuts, scrapes, sunburn, bug bites, upset stomachs, and headaches. Check out our Best First-Aid Kits list to find the best one for you and your camping needs.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Need More Camping Advice?

The 35 Best Ways to Save At REI’s Member Moment Event 2024

10 Campfire Safety Tips

How to Lace Hiking Boots & Shoes

How to Clean Hiking Shoes & Boots

La Sportiva Spire GTX Hiking Shoes Review

20 Hot Deals at REI’s Holiday Warm Up Sale 2023

Zpacks Duplex Zip Tent Review

The 50 Best Deals at REI’s Gear Up Get Out Sale 2023

20 Ways to Use Your REI 20% Off Coupon

Durston X-Mid Pro 2 Tent Review

40 Great Deals at REI’s Labor Day Sale 2023

100 Best Gifts For Hikers, Backpackers & Campers 2024

Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.

Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.

Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Nature Travel

24 Most Scenic Places to Camp in the United States

From the piney woods of Maine to the sandy beaches of Florida, here's where to enjoy the great outdoors.

You may be wondering, "What are the best places to camp near me?" One of the greatest things about traveling around the U.S. is that from coast to coast, there's really no shortage of beautiful places to camp. Nature lovers can enjoy fresh air, glorious mountains, and clear lakes and streams during a weekend (or longer) camping trip. Not only can you set up a tent at these picturesque locations, they also come with plenty of picnic areas, hiking trails , and ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, and other outdoor activities in the great wide wilderness. From scenic forests in Maine to peaceful beaches in Florida and majestic mountains in Alaska, these are some of the most beautiful places to camp in the U.S.

Many of these parks have distinct, built-up campgrounds to choose from with features like running water and electricity for RV parking that are ideal if you're planning a road trip . More experienced and outdoorsy types can also find plenty of spots for backcountry camping, where they can really rough it in the wild. Either way, don't forget to bring your sleeping bag and check the website to make sure your desired campground is open before you head out — lots of these sites are only open seasonally after all.

Also be aware that most of the campgrounds and national parks on this list are home to wild bears, whether black, brown, or grizzly. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings, read up on bear safety before you go, and take extra precautions — like locking up your food carefully in the appropriate storage and keeping some bear pepper spray handy — while you're there.

Acadia National Park, Maine

styxclick / Getty Images

Located on Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park is the Pine Tree State's natural jewel. The park boasts nearly 50,000 acres of forests, 24 lakes and ponds, and 158 miles of hiking trails, offering a scenic backdrop for all your adventures. You'll also find five campgrounds to set up your tent: Blackwoods (close to Bar Harbor), Seawall (less touristy), Schoodic Woods (situated on the Schoodic Peninsula), Duck Harbor (located on Isle au Haut and only reachable from the mainland by mailboat) and Wildwood Stables (available to guests with stock animals only). Reserve campsites online ahead of time up to 60 days in advance. All campgrounds close seasonally during the winter, though they reopen in May for spring, summer, and fall camping.

White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire and Maine

Cappi Thompson / Getty Images

If you're up for a rugged hike, look no further than the northernmost section of the Appalachian Valley, located near the start of the Appalachian Trail (or the end, depending on which direction you're hiking). The sights in White Mountains National Forest are particularly magical during the fall when leaf-peeping season is at its peak. Here, you'll find several campgrounds and cabins , from fully developed campsites fit for families to stark backcountry spots better suited to those who enjoy wilderness camping. The Barnes Field and Hancock campgrounds are open year-round — Barnes Field sites must be reserved ahead of time from mid-May to mid-October but are available on a first come, first served basis during the winter, while group sites at the Hancock campground can be booked anytime.

Minnewaska State Park Reserve, New York

andykazie / Getty Images

Just 94 miles from New York City, Minnewaska State Park Reserve sits on Shawangunk Ridge more than 2,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by rocky terrain. That's a lot of space to hike, bike, and — especially — enjoy the view. Reservations for the Sam F. Pryor III Shawangunk Campground can be made online starting each year in March, as it's closed during the winter months. There are 50 tent sites (24 walk-in sites and 26 drive-in sites), as well as five car-camping sites, and amenities such as Wi-Fi, coin-operated showers, and communal fire pits and picnic pavilions.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Xavier_Ascanio / Getty Images

About a 90-minute drive from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah National Park offers more than 500 miles of trails, including the popular but strenuous 9.4-mile trek up Old Rag Mountain that's a must-do for avid hikers (book your day-use ticket ahead of time online). This glorious park, spread out over 199,200 acres, offers plenty of views of lush forests and waterfalls. Its facilities are open in the spring, summer, and fall, and there are five campgrounds to choose from. Note that while most campsites can be reserved online up to six months ahead, you must actually be there to book one of the first come, first served campsites — people tend to book long weekend stays starting on Thursday or Friday, so plan your trip accordingly. Text SHENCAMP to 888777 for the latest updates on first come, first served campsite availability.

Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland

sdominick / Getty Images

The Assateague Island National Seashore campgrounds are about nine miles south of Ocean City, Maryland, with 37 miles of beaches for camping, swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, crabbing, biking, kayaking, and spotting wild horses. Though Assateague Island National Seashore is located in both Maryland and Virginia, camping is only available on the Maryland side. Campers are not allowed to bring in firewood from outside Maryland, and if you're bringing any furry friends along, you'll need to ensure they're up to date on all their shots and sign a pet policy agreement. Campsites can be reserved ahead of time online from mid-March to mid-November and most come with picnic tables and a fire ring.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

sly5800 / Getty Images

You can have one of the world's largest barrier reefs right outside your tent when you go camping at Dry Tortugas National Park , located just off the coast of Key West in South Florida. Campers can rent snorkel gear, spend their days relaxing on the beach, or check out Fort Jefferson , a 19th-century fortress used by the Union army to blockade Confederate shipping channels during the Civil War. This area is also great for stargazing at night and bird-watching during the day, so pack a pair of binoculars. All campers are advised to plan ahead and bring everything they'll need (including tents, fresh water, ice, food, and fuel), carry out all trash, and book their ferry transportation from Key West as early as possible, as tickets tend to sell out months in advance.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Barcroft Media / Getty Images

If you're looking for a great place to go rafting, canoeing, and kayaking, Big Bend National Park along the Rio Grande in Texas is an excellent choice. There are also trails along the park's desert, mountain, and river landscapes for hiking or backpacking. You'll find three developed campgrounds (Chisos Basin, Rio Grande Village, and Cottonwood), an RV camping area, and plenty of opportunities for backcountry camping. All require advance reservations, while backcountry permits are required for river trips and approved backcountry use at the park's primitive sites.

Ozark–St. Francis National Forests, Arkansas

Michael Runkel / Getty Images

Arkansas has loads of countryside that is often overlooked. In the Ozark–St. Francis National Forests , you'll find 1.2 million acres of recreational space, home to nine beaches, many lakes and streams, and more than 1,000 miles of hiking trails. Campers can choose between a number of developed campgrounds for RV and tent camping, some of which, including Cove Lake, Redding, and the Blanchard Springs Recreation Area, are open year-round. Other campgrounds, such as Long Pool, Storm Creek, Shores Lake, and Lake Wedington, are open seasonally from May through October. Primitive camping within the five wilderness areas is also permitted — just remember to bring some water (or a water filtration device) and leave no trace.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Karen Desjardin / Getty Images

Don't underestimate the beauty of the Badlands . The climate may be rough, but it's still gorgeous. Between the many rock formations you'll see throughout Badlands National Park , you'll also find prairies and places to peek at ancient fossils. There are two campgrounds within the park. The first, Cedar Pass, offers 96 campsites, scenic views of the various rock formations, and amenities such as running water and electricity. The other, Sage Creek, is a smaller campground with 22 first come, first served sites and no running water, although you can usually see the bison wandering around.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Idaho

Buddy Mays / Getty Images

The steep Smoky Mountains offer stunning views, reminiscent of something out of a Bob Ross painting. There are dozens of campgrounds throughout this 756,000-acre wood, but one of the best spots is Sawtooth National Recreation Area . It's a fantastic place to go hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, rafting, boating, trekking, or cycling, and just get back to nature. While half the sites are available on a first come, first served basis, reservations can be made online ahead of time, with camping season taking place each year from late-May to mid-September.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Feng Wei Photography / Getty Images

There are 13 developed campgrounds and more than 1,000 sites so you can stay and bask in the beautiful views of Montana's magnificent Glacier National Park . Hikers can also enjoy more than 700 miles of trails through forest, meadow, and mountain terrains. Several of Glacier National Park's campgrounds are available on a first come, first served basis , while others require advance reservations . Check the website to see which of them will be open if you plan on doing some wintertime wilderness camping; otherwise, the main camping season happens spring through fall each year.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Just north of Jackson Hole, you can peek at the Rocky Mountains and see plenty of wildlife and lakes. Grand Teton National Park is also located next to the National Elk Refuge , where you can spot hundreds of elk, depending on when you go. While you can stay at one of the six campgrounds inside the national park, Signal Mountain in particular has the best reviews. An RV park and a village with tent cabins are also available should you prefer something beyond traditional tent camping. Whatever you do, reserve as far ahead as you can, since online reservations for campsites open up to six months in advance and tend to fill up quickly. Keep an eye out for roaming bison, mule deer, and moose, as well as the occasional bear.

Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, Colorado

J.C. Leacock / Getty Images

With more than 3,000 miles of trails and three million acres of public land, you're guaranteed a beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains in Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests . You'll see a variety of landscapes among the 59 campsites, including open meadows, evergreen forests, mountains, and lakes. Most are open seasonally, while a select few stay open all year long — check the website for road conditions beforehand if you plan to camp during the winter months.

Arches National Park, Utah

Marc Shandro / Getty Images

Nothing beats waking up on a cold morning to see fresh, white snow set against the red rocks of Arches National Park . One of the park's most popular hikes, the Delicate Arch Trail , takes you on an amazing trek full of photo opportunities. Note that Arches only has one campground, The Devils Garden , which offers a modest 51 campsites, although there are other places to camp nearby in the Moab area . Due to its size and the number of people who visit the park during the busier months, reservations are required for stays between March 1 and October 31 — campsites are available on a first come, first served basis from November to February.

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Cornelia Doerr / Getty Images

Located about a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas within Valley of Fire State Park , the Arch Rock Campground is a quiet camping oasis surrounded by dramatic red sandstones. One of just two campgrounds inside the park, Arch Rock offers 29 sites that are open during the busier months (spring through fall), while the other, the Atlatl Rock Campground, has 44 sites and is open year-round. All sites are first come, first served. Established in 1935, the park is home to 2,000-year-old petroglyphs, curious rock formations, and gorgeous vistas featuring its signature red sandstone.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Michael Melford / Getty Images

There's no place like the Grand Canyon if you want a stunning view. Reservations are recommended for two of the three developed campgrounds during the summer. Backcountry camping is also allowed with a permit. While the South Rim is easier to get to, it can get a little crowded. For a more secluded stay, try the North Rim . Just be aware that it'll take about four more hours to reach it from Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. There's a reason it's called the Grand Canyon, and you'll need to drive a little over 200 miles to reach the opposite side. Also note that North Rim campgrounds are only open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October, while several sites along the South Rim are open year-round, including the Mather Campground and Trailer Village in South Rim Village. Two other South Rim spots, Desert View and Ten–X, are only open seasonally from mid-April to mid-October and mid-May through September, respectively.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

CrackerClips / Getty Images

Keep in mind that timed entry reservations are required for anyone who wants to enter Carlsbad Caverns National Park . While most ranger-guided tours at Carlsbad Caverns National Park remain temporarily suspended due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, you can book a spot on the 1.5-hour King's Palace Tour , which offers a look at the unique rock formations found inside the cavern, such as helictites, soda straws, and draperies, among others. The park is also a great place to spot bats in the caves in late summer and early fall. Note that only backcountry camping is available within the park, and every camper is required to secure a permit from the park's visitor center upon arrival (camping facilities and other accommodations can be found seven miles away in Whites City or 20 miles away in Carlsbad). Be sure to ask about the park's seasonal Bat Flight Programs and Night Sky Programs while you're at the visitor center, as these only happen at certain times of the year.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

There's nothing like camping next to this beautiful coastline, marked by several sea stacks. Olympic National Park has 14 different campgrounds, some next to the ocean and others in the rain forest, so you can enjoy a variety of landscapes. Check the Campground Status page on the park's website before you go to see if there are any seasonal or weather-related closures. While most are first come, first served, you can reserve a spot ahead of time online during the summer at the Mora, Hoh Rain Forest, Kalaloch, and Fairholme campgrounds, as well as the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort RV Park & Campground and Log Cabin Resort RV & Campground.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Bruce Shippee / EyeEm / Getty Images

Crater Lake National Park is home to the United State's deepest lake (1,943 feet!) and a sleeping volcano, so there are plenty of photo opportunities for nature lovers. Campers can choose between two campgrounds: Mazama , for RV and tent camping from June to late September, and Lost Creek , which remains closed in 2023 but is normally open from July through mid-October for tents only. And yes, there's also backcountry camping with a permit.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

There are nine campgrounds located throughout Joshua Tree National Park , including Jumbo Rocks , which is known for its big boulder rocks that shelter sites from the wind. It is highly recommended that you book your campsite ahead of time online — especially during the busy season, which happens between November and May, as well as on holidays, weekends, and any spring day — as most of them can be reserved up to six months in advance. Be aware that certain sections of the Cottonwood, Black Rock, and Indian Cove campgrounds may be closed during the summer — those campgrounds as well as Ryan and Jumbo Rocks require reservations year-round, while the others are available on a first come, first served basis.

Yosemite National Park, California

Bee-individual / Getty Images

Everyone who loves nature has to go to Yosemite National Park at some point in their lives, especially for a good camping trip. Nearly 95 percent of the park is designated wilderness, and there are 13 popular campgrounds within its 747,956 acres, as well as backcountry camping for people who really want to rough it. Note that the Tuolumne Meadows Campground is expected to remain closed for renovations through 2023 or possibly 2024 depending on the construction schedule. Visit the campground page on the park's website to learn more about when to make reservations and enter the North Pines Campground early access lottery .

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California

Johnny Haglund / Getty Images

Want to see some of the biggest trees in North America? Look no further than Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks , where you can set up camp among any of 14 scenic campgrounds . Choose from several different areas throughout the parks — Grant Grove Village, the foothills of Sequoia National Park, the Lodgepole and Giant Forest areas, Cedar Grove, and the Mineral King area — and make your reservations in advance. All campgrounds are open spring through fall, while just the South Fork, Potwisha, and Azalea sites are open all year long.

Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii

M Swiet Productions / Getty Images

Haleakalā National Park is known for its 10,023-foot dormant volcano, which is a great spot for the best views of Maui's natural landscape. Designated campsites are available in the Kīpahulu and Hosmer Grove campgrounds, while additional lodging is available thanks to the park's historic wilderness cabins. Those seeking something a little more natural can try the Hōlua and Palikū primitive wilderness camping areas. No matter what style of camping you're into, you must make reservations ahead of time to camp here throughout the year and are only allowed to stay three nights per 30-day period.

Denali National Park, Alaska

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

If you've never been to Alaska, you're missing out, as some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States can be found here. Denali National Park offers 6.1 million acres of land full of wildlife, beautiful trails, and plenty of plants, creeks, and mountains, including Mount McKinley, North America's tallest peak. Choose from five established campgrounds — not counting the Wonder Lake campground, which will be closed through 2024 — and be sure to reserve your spot online as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in USA

From the granite cliffs of Yosemite to the twists and turns of the Grand Canyon, the United States is home to some of the most coveted trails in the world. Explore the icy slopes of Alaska or the volcanic peaks of Hawaii , the world is your oyster on a hiking adventure in the Land of the Free.

250+ Hiking & Trekking tour packages in USA with 3,572 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Hiking Utah's Mighty 5

Charlie was an excellent guide. He fed us well and made everyday exciting. The hikes were breathtaking.

Hiking Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite

Great itinerary and guide.

Hiking in Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada

The trip was well coordinated. Our trip had to be re-routed due to the very snowy winter, but our tour guide, Phil, still managed to keep our days full, and our hikes about the same mileage that we would have walked otherwise. The hikes were moderate to steep, nothing that our entire group could not keep up with. I felt that everyone was accommodated to. And we went to our rooms at night exhausted from our days journey. Yosemite is a must-do, if you have never been there. The pictures do it no justice. Having the tour guide from intrepid was great, because he told us all about the history of the National Park- things that I would have walked right by if I were hiking alone. This trip was great! can’t wait until the next one.

• Walking Adventure

4 day Yellowstone and Tetons in depth tour from Salt Lake City Small Groups Tour

I just got back from the Yellowstone/Tetons trip leaving from Salt Lake City. I had such a great time. I was apprehensive about camping, since I’m not a big camper, but the camping and time around the campfire at night helped to create a bond with all the other people on the trip. We saw some really great views and Mike, our guide, did a wonderful job at getting us to all the best places. The trip was well organized, and the communication before the trip was exceptional, whether it was answering an email, questions over the phone, or email communication just before the trip. I would definitely travel with Bindlestiff tours again.

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hiking Utah's National Parks

Prior to the start of my tour radar trip, it was difficult to communicate or ask questions. Once I met to tour guide Ally it was an excellent experience. Ally was information on the next step and reviewed what was needed on a daily basis. The schedule was busy, the hikes were mostly moderate as expected… She was able to direct all hikers on the trails. She assured that I was always able to complete each trail. We instructed to have and were prepared with plenty of water,

• Mountain Hikes

7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

This was our family’s first guided trip, and we chose the camping option (ages 52, 50, 13, 12). It exceeded our expectations! Despite a complex itinerary we never once had to think about how to get there, how much time to spend at each place, where to park, what to see, where to stay, where or what to eat - that was all planned for us. There was no marital or family tension and could just truly sit back and enjoy the ride! I truly believe we did more and saw more than we ever would have on our own. And special experiences like moonrises and sunrises were a big bonus. Our guide John was an enthusiastic and capable outdoorsman. He made sure the trip met the needs of the various guests - campers and hotellers alike, with a wide range of ages and physical abilities. There were thoughtful touches like road-trip playlists, moonrise and sunrise viewings, pit stops at roadside stops to support Native American craftsmen, and more. This is a beautiful part of the US - each park more beautiful than the last, but each one unique and wonderful. Highly recommend!

Yellowstone Base Camp Tour

The Yellowstone Base Camp tour was excellent. We covered a wide variety of Yellowstone sites from the popular attractions to beautiful but less frequented locations. Our guides, Chris Rapich and Ed Cochran, were great. They provided a lot of information about the park and wildlife, made great meals and did everything they could to make this a memorable experience. I'd travel with them anytime.

Rocky Mountain Immersion: Explore Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain National Parks

Best of Lassen Volcanic Basecamp

Great experience. This may have been our guide's (Sassy) first official trip, but she did a great job. We all got along very well and Sassy handled some adversity with aplomb. Parts of the park at Lassen were inaccessible, but we managed to do and see a lot. One of our guests tested positive for Covid but we found creative and safe ways to make it all work. Meals were very good. I have booked another trip with Wildland.

• Christmas & New Year

USA – 5 Days Chasing Slot Canyons in Utah

USA – 8 Days Arches Canyonlands Antelope Zion Bryce Grand Canyon

National Parks Walk

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days Lodging Tour

5 Utah National Parks in 5 Days Camping Tour

5 star experience. Definitely recommended!

Classic Walks in Vermont

What people love about hiking & trekking tours in usa.

the best way to explore the vastness and glory of the Utah desert is by camping and hiking in small groups. I enjoyed this trip immensely, it was challenging enough but not too much. Our guide was a brave and resourceful powerful woman. I am planning my next trip with you already!

Great way to travel and meet new people! Changes were made to the itinerary due to road/trail closures but it worked out in the best way. CEO adapted meals for vegetarian travelers in the group. I would book with them again!

Hiking & Trekking Tours

• Attraction-Based Hikes (57)
• Mountain Hikes (32)
• Centre Based Walking Holidays (9)
• Rocky Mountains (158)
• Sierra Nevada Mountains (30)
• Appalachian Mountains (28)
• Mount Denali National Park (10)
• Mount Rainier (6)

Regions in USA

• Western USA (320)
• Southwest USA (206)
• Rocky Mountains (160)
• Sun Belt (136)
• Four Corners (126)
• Pacific Coast USA (68)
• West Coast USA (64)
• California (59)
• Northern California (46)
• Yellowstone National Park (40)
• Grand Canyon (39)
• Yosemite National Park (35)
• Sierra Nevada Mountains (31)
• Central California (30)
• Lake Tahoe (30)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Hiking & Trekking Companies
• Your Guide to Planning a Private Hike 2024/2025
• Best Hiking Tours in The World 2024/2025
• USA Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• Best time to visit East Coast USA (Low & High Season)
• Best Time to Visit the West Coast, USA in 2024/2025 (with California)
• Best USA Vacation Spots for Couples: Parks, Cities and more
• 5 Best Guided Backpacking Trips & Tours
• Best 10 Day USA Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

THE 10 BEST Moscow Hiking & Camping Tours

Hiking & camping tours in moscow.

• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Equipment Hire
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• District Eastern (VAO)
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. Moscow Navigator

3. VikiTours

4. Easy Russia Tour Guide

6. UTS GROUP

7. Julia Politova

8. 365AltaiMongolia

9. H.I.S. Russia

10. #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD

11. Aviashop.Ru

12. Transsib Moscow

13. Marshrut-48

14. BASK TOUR

16. Across Russia. Nature and Adventure

17. Russian Adventure Travel Co. Ltd

18. Svoya Tropa

19. planeta vozmozhnostey.

20. Andrey Antonenko

21. Elbrus Reisen Alexios Passalidis

22. awesome russia outdoor travel.

23. Yulia Vlasova

24. Elvira Nazyrova

THE 10 BEST Moscow Hiking & Camping Tours

Hiking & camping tours in moscow.

• Adrenaline & Extreme Tours
• Equipment Hire
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Hiking & Camping Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• District Eastern (VAO)
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. Moscow Navigator

3. VikiTours

4. Easy Russia Tour Guide

6. UTS GROUP

7. Julia Politova

8. 365AltaiMongolia

9. H.I.S. Russia

10. #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD

11. Aviashop.Ru

12. Transsib Moscow

13. Marshrut-48

14. BASK TOUR

16. Across Russia. Nature and Adventure

17. Russian Adventure Travel Co. Ltd

18. Svoya Tropa

19. planeta vozmozhnostey.

20. Andrey Antonenko

21. Elbrus Reisen Alexios Passalidis

22. awesome russia outdoor travel.

23. Yulia Vlasova

24. Elvira Nazyrova

Top USA Camping Trips and Tours for 2022

• All Inspiration and Destinations
• Canadian Rockies
• New Hampshire
• New Zealand
• North Carolina
• Vancouver Island
• Washington State

Looking for the best camping trips and tours? You’ve come to the right place.

Camping trips immerse us in nature in a way we don’t get in our everyday lives. Imagine returning to camp after a long, satisfying day of hiking through a  National Park wilderness. You mosey around camp, thinking about that giant bison you saw along the trail, while smells from the grill swirl around you. Once you’ve had dinner, you relax by the crackling campfire with your marshmallow-topped stick hovering near the flames.

When it’s time to crawl into your tent, you open your rainfly so you can look at the glimmering stars in the Milky Way as you drift off to sleep. In the morning, you rise to the smell of fresh coffee. Then, after breakfast, you lace up your boots for another fantastic day of hiking. What’s on the agenda for today? With the help of your expert guide, you’re off to summit a 10,000-foot peak with 360-degree views of the wide, open country in Yellowstone.

If you’re looking for a fun, action-packed adventure that melds some of the comforts of inn-based hiking tours with a bit of the wildness of backpacking trips , our basecamp trips may be just what you’re after. Sometimes, you’ll want to hike remote trails while also seeing the iconic sites of our country’s most beloved public lands. Well, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up our top camping trips for 2022 so you can choose the perfect U.S.A. destination for your camping adventure.

what is a camping tour?

A camping tour (or basecamp trip) is a unique trip style that combines day hiking with traditional, vehicle-accessible camping. Wildland Trekking offers these tours for travelers who want a mix of adventure and comfort. You’ll set out on fantastic day hikes with a knowledgeable guide and return to a developed campground every night. As you lounge in your tent or take a hot shower, your guide will be cooking up a hearty dinner (complete with dessert!) You’ll get some small luxuries — camp chairs, cushy sleeping pads, pillows — while also working hard to accomplish some big hikes.

On your day hikes, you’ll carry a light daypack instead of a heavy backpacking pack. Plus, you’ll have access to hot showers, fresh meals, and (maybe) cell phone service.

Wildland Trekking plans all the logistics — from campsites, to meals, to transportation, to hiking itineraries. Plus, we provide you with comfy camping gear, a daypack, and trekking poles. All you’ll need to do is show up ready to hike!

We offer camping tours in mountain and desert destinations all around the U.S.A. Mountain camping destinations include Yellowstone, Yosemite, Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Pacific Northwest (Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks.) Canyon destinations include Grand Canyon, Utah’s national parks and monuments (Zion, Bryce, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument), Sedona’s Red Rock Country, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree. Additionally, we offer international camping trips in Iceland.

The top five basecamp trips

Pacific northwest basecamp tour.

This six-day camping adventure takes you to two stunning Pacific Northwest destinations: Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park. Although this itinerary is packed to the brim, you need all this time to take in the sights and sounds at these two parks. The rain that falls in Washington throughout the year creates vibrant green landscapes, raging waterfalls, and happy wildlife.

On the first three days, hike through lush rainforests (look out for banana slugs!), along rocky coastlines, and across an alpine ridgeline to experience the three unique ecosystems in Olympic. Then, head east to Mount Rainier National Park, where a 14,000-foot volcano looms high above wildflower-filled meadows and cascading rivers. Here, you’ll stand in the shadow of an active volcano and even have the opportunity to catch one of the historic ranger talks at Longmire or Paradise.

Can’t commit to six days? We’ve got a three-day option that lets you experience the best that the Olympic Peninsula has to offer!

Highlights: Old-growth rainforest, rugged coastline, and glaciated volcanoes all in one trip!

Potential wildlife sightings: Elk, whistling marmots, banana slugs, black bears, and river otter.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  29+ miles over six days

Best Time for Travel:  July through September

 Pacific Northwest Basecamp Tour

Yosemite Basecamp tour

This camping trip is tailored towards adventure seekers who want to experience both the popular trails of Yosemite National Park and the alpine destinations around Tuolumne Meadows. Yosemite is full of big scenery, and every step you take will transport you deeper into the wilderness. As you travel from your campsite to the Valley each morning, you’ll see evidence of how ancient glaciers carved this granite landscape. After four days in Yosemite, you’ll know both the geologic and cultural history of this unique region.

On the first day, you’ll hit one of the most iconic destinations — the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls. While the crowds are high, this is not a trail you want to miss. Later in the trip, you’ll attempt to summit not just one but two Yosemite peaks — North Dome and Mount Hoffmann. Then, you’ll hike to the Cathedral Lakes where you can bask in the sun on the granite slabs by a glittering alpine lake. In the evenings, you’ll return to camp on the quiet side of the park via Tioga Pass.

Highlights:  The iconic Yosemite Valley views mixed with some low-traffic high country magic.

Potential wildlife sightings: Black bear, coyote, marmots, and overly-enthusiastic squirrels.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  27 miles over four days

See Yosemite Basecamp Tours

women’s death valley basecamp tour

Explore the largest national park in the contiguous United States on this Women’s Death Valley Basecamp Tour! (Don’t worry, we have a general Death Valley basecamp trip for all our guests, too.) This all-female trip (run by a female guide) is perfect for solo travelers looking to join a like-minded hiking group to explore some incredibly unique desert sights. Death Valley is not the most popular hiking destination, but that is precisely what makes it so spectacular. In this unique ecosystem, a guide can come in handy to interpret what you’re seeing. The desert is subtle but full of life, and your guide will happily teach you how to notice it.

On this trip, you’ll cover diverse terrain — from a lush oasis, to striated sand dunes, to the pinyon and juniper-studded peaks in the Panamint Mountains. You’ll trek through history as you pass colorful volcanic deposits, petroglyphs, and rusted remnants from the area’s mining history. At night, you’ll head back to camp to fall asleep to some of the most mesmerizing night skies you’ll find in this country.

Highlights:  The incredible diversity of each trail and the surprising life you find in the desert between the cracks.

Potential wildlife sightings: Desert tortoise, jackrabbit, and bighorn sheep.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  17 – 24 miles over four days

Best Time for Travel:  January through March and November/December

See Womens Death Valley Basecamp Tour

Yellowstone national park

Yellowstone covers over two million acres and hosts over 900 miles of hiking trails, so it’s hard to know what to prioritize when you’re visiting this magnificent park. Lucky for you, we’ve developed a five-day hiking and camping itinerary that packs in both the classic, roadside destinations (you can’t miss Old Faithful!) and quiet, backcountry trails. On this all-encompassing camping tour of Yellowstone , we’ll shuttle you around to sights and trailheads, mixing hiking miles with boardwalks. You’ll see the Mammoth Hot Springs on the same day that you hike the charming Beaver Pond Loop. Then, you’ll pair the Upper Geyser Basin with a fantastic backcountry geyser that ricochets water into the air, painting a rainbow across the landscape. On the last day, you’ll hike across meadows and through lodgepole pine forests to the 220-foot Fairy Falls before ending your trip at yet another classic: the swirling colors of Grand Prismatic Spring.

On the days in between, you’ll summit peaks — Mount Washburn and the Elephant Back Mountain — and hike along lakeshores through Grizzly bear territory. The greatest thing about this tour? You’ll leave feeling like you know Yellowstone like the back of your hand.

Highlights:  Escaping the crowds to experience the true wilderness of Yellowstone. Oh, and the almost-guaranteed wildlife sightings.

Potential wildlife sightings: Bison, elk, grizzly bear, wolves, and more.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  30 miles over five days

Best Time for Travel:  June through September

See Yellowstone Basecamp Tour

the best of Utah (Bryce, Zion, & Escalante)

Southern Utah is home to five amazing National Parks and countless acres of National Monument and BLM land, so you’ll never run out of sights to see. On this six-day hiking and camping tour of southwestern Utah, we take you through two of these National Parks — Zion and Bryce Canyon — and into Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument. You’ll squeeze through dark, narrow slot canyons in Escalante, weave your way through the sea of hoodoos in Bryce, and gain expansive views as you huff and puff up a mountainside above Zion Canyon. When you return to camp at night (in either Zion National Park or Escalante Petrified Forest State Park), you’ll kick up your feet as a reward for your hard work during your day’s adventures.

Want more time in Zion? We offer a three-day Zion-only trip. Or, cut down on driving and spend five days in Bryce and Escalante! On this off-the-beaten-path trip , you’ll spend the majority of your hiking time on less-populated trails so you can experience the solitude of the red rock desert.

Highlights:  Incredible geologic features, including narrow slot canyons, tall sandstone walls, and bright hoodoos.

Potential wildlife sightings:  Bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and other desert critters.

Trip Length & Total Mileage:  30+ miles over six days

Best Time for Travel:  March through June and September/October

See Best of Utah Basecamp Tour

Is a Camping trip right for you?

Many types of hikers would enjoy a guided camping adventure. If you love to camp and day hike, a camping trip this year might be right for you. Or, if you want to learn the skills to set out on adventures yourself, our guides can supply you with the knowledge you need. A basecamp tour might be up your alley if:

• You enjoy hiking and camping with local, professional guides to increase the safety and enjoyment of your national park adventure.
• You’re new to camping and don’t own the gear, joining a tour might make practical and financial sense.
• You’ve been dreaming of a specific camping and hiking vacation (such as Yellowstone, Yosemite, or southern Utah). You’ll want to ensure you make the very most of your big trip with a hand-crafted, expert itinerary.
• You’re interested in the educational aspect of learning about your hiking destination and its natural and cultural history. Joining a professionally guided tour provided by a reputable company will enrich your experience!
• You want the ease and convenience of letting us handle the logistics. That way, you can focus entirely on enjoying the hiking and camping experience.

why wildland trekking?

We know the quality of your guiding company can make or break a trip. When you let a trekking operator plan your vacation — including the trails you hike and the meals you eat —you want it to be top-notch. Plus, you’re spending entire days with your group and your guide, so you want to ensure that group dynamics run smoothly. If you’ve planned your dream hiking vacation, why would you settle for anything less than excellence? That’s where Wildland Trekking comes in.

We offer premier hiking vacations across the U.S.A. and the globe. Many adventure companies focus on multiple sports, but not us – we’re 100% focused on the trekking experience. With exceptional guides, fantastic meals, top-of-the-line gear, dialed-in logistics, incredible support staff, and award-winning itineraries, we are passionate about providing unforgettable trekking experiences for guests all over the world!

But don’t take it from us, click any of these trip pages and read the trip reviews so that you can know with certainty that you’ll be happy with your choice. Or, head to Tripadvisor to see how our trips fare in your desired destination. We want you to love every minute of your adventure, so contact us today to get started.

About Hannah Singleton

Hannah is a content strategist, writer, and guide for Wildland Trekking Company. She was born and raised on the East Coast but currently resides in Salt Lake City, UT where she spends her time exploring the wonders of the Rocky Mountain West. You can check out more of her freelance writing at www.hannah-singleton.com.

wildland Wires

Sign up to receive our exclusive Wildland Wire emails and stay up to date with Wildland Trekking's promotions, discounts, contests, outdoor tips and tricks, trip reports and more!

Sokolniki Camping for Tents and Motorhomes in Moscow

• Cheposh Park
• Les I More Campsite

Comments, Questions, Feedback?

Most recent articles:.

• Latest Latest
• The West The West
• Sports Sports
• Opinion Opinion
• Magazine Magazine

Great foods to bring on your national park trip

Stay with easy to pack and simplistic meals or snacks to stay full and energized throughout the day.

By Alyssa Bradford

Planning on bringing some snacks to your next national park trip?

Food is permitted within national parks; however, it’s important to remember that every individual contributes significantly to the preservation of the parks. When bringing food, consider how it might impact the ecosystem.

Follow the Leave No Trace guidelines, specifically in relation to disposing of waste properly, provided by the National Park Service :

• Clean up areas after eating.
• Clean food preparation areas.
• Bring leftover food back home with you.
• Dispose of trash properly.

Snacks and meals for day trips to national parks

During a national park trip, you, your family or friends might have to bring a lunch and snacks to eat during the various activities throughout the day. Here are some easy suggestions of foods to bring:

• Sandwiches: Peanut butter, bagels and cream cheese, wraps, egg or deli are all great options.
• Trail mix: Buy a pack from the store or make your own. I enjoy add pretzels, mixed nuts, Cheerios, and lots of peanut or peanut butter M&Ms.
• Fresh, canned or dried fruit: Apple slices and nut butter, applesauce pouches, canned pears, dried mangoes or anything you would enjoy.
• Beef jerky.
• Crackers and cheese.
• Protein bars.

Snacks and meals for staying overnight in national parks

Depending on how many nights you’re staying, bringing foods that need to be refrigerated is not a great idea unless you will use them by the first night. Many individuals also prefer meals that that are quick and easy to make so more time can be spent enjoying the park.

Usually done for breakfast, oatmeal is an quick meal that can be made by warming up some water over a camping stove or fire. Feel free to bring a small bag of oats or an instant oatmeal packet.

While visiting a national park, you might be heading out for hikes or other activities which may cause more calorie loss than normal. Consider picking packets or bringing add-ins that contain protein and fats so that you are energized throughout the day. My favorite instant oatmeal is is Kodiak Nuts and Seeds protein oatmeal packet. It adds almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, pumpkins seeds and more.

Canned meat

While canned meat doesn’t always sound good by itself, it mixes well in larger dishes and does not need to be refrigerated.

Here are some great camping recipes that could use canned meat instead of fresh:

• Chicken salad sandwiches — Prepare a chicken salad beforehand or bring the ingredients to a campsite with some bread. If you want to follow a recipe, look at Once Upon a Chef .
• Quinoa salad — There are so many ingredients that could be added to a quinoa salad to help as you’re active throughout the day. Outside Magazine has a great recipe where items could go without being refrigerated for some time. You can choose to cook the quinoa, or any type of pasta, beforehand or at the campsite. Try this recipe from Outside Magazine and add your preferred canned meat.
• Tacos — Grab some tortillas, canned meat, chosen veggies, cheese and any toppings — like salsa — and warm them up to create a quick and delicious meal. Bringing and adding seasoning will help enrich the flavor.

Foil dinners

A camping foil dinner consists of seasoned meat and vegetables wrapped in aluminum foil and cooked over an open flame or on coals. After you’re done cooking, just unwrap and enjoy the contents straight from the foil packet or with bread.

Wanting a recipe? Look at the selections below from High Heels and Grills .

• Beef, carrots and potatoes .
• Philly cheesesteaks .
• Santa Fe Chicken .

Roasted hot dogs on a stick

Roasted hot dogs on a stick make for the perfect camping meal. They’re incredibly easy to prepare and clean up. Simply skewer a hot dog on a stick and roast it over the fire until it’s perfectly cooked and slightly charred. Furthermore, hot dogs appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Feel free to bring buns or any toppings as needed.

When it comes to camping desserts, you can’t go wrong with classics like s’mores, Rice Krispies Treats and Starbursts roasted over the fire. If you’re looking for more options, bringing along chips and drinks adds variety and ensures everyone finds something they enjoy while gathering around the campfire.