Most Picturesque Places to Go Camping in the US

Jul 13, 2025

We’ve shared lots of coastal, beach, and lake getaways as well as plenty of tourist towns and cities, but today we’re taking things back to basics and sharing some of our favorite campgrounds. Each of the campgrounds on this list has something truly unique and memorable to offer visitors. From lakeside lighthouses to breezy grasslands to desert canyons, we’ve got something for everyone’s flavor of outdoor adventure. If you’ve not gone camping yet, what are you waiting for? You’ll have the opportunity to get away from the rat race of your 9 to 5 and overscheduled kids activities, as well as an excuse to not answer your phone or emails for a few days. What could be better than that?

Camping is a great way to reconnect with nature, yourself, and your community be it friends or family. Outdoor activities like camping are a great way to reduce stress, improve physical fitness, rejuvenate your mental health, boost your confidence, and help you sleep better. Whether you choose to rough it with backpack camping or perhaps a more traditional route like a tent, or “glamping” in organized campers and RVs, there’s options for all of those flavors on today’s blog. So, what are you waiting for? Hop in your new car from Classic Toyota of Waukegan, and let’s hit the road to camping bliss.

Lost Lake Campground in Colorado is known for its peace and tranquility, as well as its rustic charm offering more off-grid style camping. It’s a great spot to disconnect from the outside world, melt away into the sounds and sights of nature, and really just kick back and enjoy the scenery. It’s picturesque and the quintessential camping experience, perfect for solitude and outdoor recreation. There are numerous wildflower and plant species to photograph, as well as diverse wildlife and fishing opportunities. Canoers and kayakers will really enjoy paddling around the freshwater lake and taking in the gorgeous mountain backdrops.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park in Minnesota is located near Two Harbors, and offers beautiful views and scenery along Lake Superior. This campground can easily accommodate RVs, Campers, and tents, and offers both private bathrooms and showers as well as a main office for assistance and firewood. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate how close it is to the park’s many hiking trails and the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse. Great for backpacking and camping, but make sure you bring plenty of bug spray for the flies and mosquitoes.

North Rim Campground in Grand Canyon National Park Arizona offers unmatched scenic views of the Canyon with less tourist traffic than The South Rim. Surrounded by a majestic pine forest at higher elevations, you’ll find a very peaceful and cool atmosphere. The views will most assuredly be exceeding your expectations! The campground does have flush toilets, a general store, and spacious campsites as well. You’ll have easy access to a number of trailheads in the area including North Kaibab Trail. Backcountry camping or tents or RVs options are available in this area, so it’s very flexible.

Scoria Point in North Dakota is a first come, first served free camp site for the serious camping enthusiast. This picturesque location is certainly off-grid and rustic, but unendingly peaceful, quiet, and perfect for an entirely unplugged getaway in the Little Missouri National Grasslands near Medora. While it’s not an officially organized campground, visitors report it’s great for boondocking in the dispersed camping area. There’s lots of available space to choose from via the gravel access road up to the top of the bluff. If tranquility and sprawling grassland sunsets are your thing, you’ll find copious amounts of it here!

Pfeiffer State Park in Big Sur offers more than 150 campsites that accommodate everything from hike-in/bike-in sites to traditional tent camping up to RVs/campers, and both standard and premium site options. You will need to book in advance for sure, as reservations can be filled up to 6 months in advance! This camp site is nestled amidst redwood forests and the Big Sur River, making for a truly serene and quintessential west coast camping experience. You’ll find abundant wildlife, numerous hiking trails ranging from very easy to challenging, plenty of options for fishing or swimming or paddling, as well as cycling and biking. As an added plus for popularity, it’s pet friendly!