Tent Camping

About This Region

Tent camping remains the purest form of outdoor adventure—just you, your gear, and the natural world. From the ancient redwoods of California to the alpine meadows of Grand Teton, America's public lands offer thousands of tent-friendly campgrounds where you can truly disconnect and reconnect with nature. Our curated selection focuses on campgrounds that deliver exceptional tent camping experiences: level sites, scenic settings, and the right balance of amenities for your comfort level. Whether you prefer developed campgrounds with restrooms and showers or more rustic sites that put you closer to the wilderness, we've highlighted the best options across the country. These aren't just places to sleep—they're gateways to adventure. Many of our top-rated tent campgrounds sit at trailheads, lakeshores, or within iconic national parks where the real magic begins when you step away from your tent.

Tent campgrounds range from fully-developed sites with flush toilets and hot showers to primitive areas with minimal facilities. Most campgrounds in our selection offer designated tent pads or cleared flat areas, fire rings, and picnic tables. Fees typically range from $15-35 per night at public campgrounds, making tent camping one of the most affordable ways to experience the outdoors. At developed campgrounds, expect vault toilets or flush restrooms, potable water spigots, and camp hosts who can answer questions about the area. More rustic sites may require packing in your own water and practicing Leave No Trace principles. Either way, the experience of sleeping under stars and waking to birdsong makes it all worthwhile.