Winter Camping
Experience the serene beauty of winter camping. From snow-covered forests to mild desert escapes.
Winter Camping by State
Explore 18 state guides with curated campgrounds
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
White Mountains National Recreation Area - Alaska Cabins
Thirteen remote log cabins scattered across a million acres provide heated shelter along groomed trails built specifically for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding through Alaska's winter wilderness.
Cape Horn Winter Rental
A dedicated winter rental cabin in Idaho's Elk Meadow offers direct access to miles of cross-country ski trails, snowmobile routes, and backcountry slopes blanketed in untouched powder.
Matterhorn Cabin
Cross-country skiers glide directly from the heated cabin onto 10km of groomed trails winding through snow-draped pines, while downhill enthusiasts reach Telluride's legendary slopes within minutes.
About This Season
Winter camping transforms America's most spectacular landscapes into serene, snow-draped wonderlands where adventurous campers can experience the backcountry in its quietest season. From Alaska's northern lights dancing over wilderness cabins to the sun-warmed desert rocks of Joshua Tree, winter camping offers diverse experiences across dramatically different climates and terrains.
Best Time
The winter camping season varies dramatically by region and elevation, with optimal timing depending on your desired experience and skill level. Alaska's winter camping season runs from November through March, with February and March offering the best combination of daylight hours and northern lights activity, though temperatures regularly drop below zero.
Season Highlights
- Year-round open campgrounds
- Snow and winter activities
- Mild climate destinations
- Ultimate solitude and peace
Explore Winter Camping Nationwide
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Winter camping requires specialized gear and preparation beyond three-season camping.
- 2Invest in a four-season tent rated for snow loads if tent camping, or book cabin rentals for your first winter trips to build skills gradually.
- 3Bring a sleeping bag rated at least 15-20 degrees below the expected low temperature, and use an insulated sleeping pad with R-value of 5 or higher to prevent heat loss to frozen ground.
- 4Layer clothing using moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells, avoiding cotton which loses insulating properties when damp.
Winter Camping FAQ
Great winter campgrounds offer protection from wind, proximity to winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing, and facilities that remain open year-round. Desert and southern campgrounds offer mild winter escapes.
Winter camping is safe with proper preparation. Choose December through February for the best conditions. Ensure you have cold-weather gear, check weather forecasts, and let someone know your plans. Many campgrounds in warmer climates offer perfect winter weather.
We list 20+ campgrounds rated excellent for winter camping across the USA, from snowy mountain retreats to mild desert escapes.
Explore Other Seasons
Find the best campgrounds for every time of year
Summer Camping
The best campgrounds for summer adventures with warm weather and peak-season amenities
Fall Camping
Scenic fall camping with colorful foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds
Spring Camping
Spring camping with wildflowers, mild weather, and the awakening of nature
Popular Winter Camping Sites Book Fast
The best winter camping sites book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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White Mountains National Recreation Area - Alaska Cabins
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Find Your Perfect Winter Campground
Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.
- Search 20+ winter camping sites
- Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
- Get personalized recommendations for your trip
- Compare campground amenities
- Check weather forecasts
No credit card required. Every feature is free to use.
