America has more than a few national parks, yet depending on when you go, the experience could be less tranquil and peaceful. Rather than fight the crowds and vie for a spot to enjoy the scenery, you may benefit from visiting parks that are a bit off the grid and away from the crowds. Find comfort in the wild when visiting the following campgrounds.
Tuweep, Grand Canyon National Park
Tuweep is located at the northern rim of the Grand Canyon, away from the popularity and crowds of the southern portion. The park consists of nine campground sites that are all incredibly remote. The northern rim offers no food, water, food, gas, or lodgings. Camping is possible with a permit, and campers must arrive at their chosen destination before sunset.
Pinon Flats, Great Sand Dunes National Park
See North America’s tallest dunes while nestled in the middle of park. The 700 foot dunes provide plenty of eye candy along with Sangre de Cristo range that reaches 14,000 feet into the sky. The 30 square mile dune field allows for plenty of space to wander in solitude. The summer season is the busiest yet half of the 40 available vacancies could be taken at any moment during the off season.
Wonder Lake, Denali National Park
You’ll be quietly nestled among the closest campground to the tallest peak in the nation. Drive your Jeep Cherokee the 85 miles up Denali Park Road to the tent-only campgrounds. You’ll find trout and grayling in Wonder Lake. The lake trail leads into the wetlands where travellers will find a wide range of birdlife. The 28-site campground is large enough to accommodate a lot of visitors yet the land is expansive enough to provide each visitor a slice of serenity.
Fruita, Capitol Reef National Park
Settlers claimed the land in the late 19th century, initiating fruit orchards that contrast the red-rock landscape. Come when the 3,000 trees are in bloom and pick at will. You can’t make reservations here; be one of the first to take advantage of the site’s seven walk-in and 64 tent areas. There’s a nine mile roundtrip trail that is a perfect mix of exercise and dazzling scenery.
Seawall, Acadia National Park
The beauty of Maine is no secret. However, not many know about the Seawall section of Acadia National Park. The seawall is the best place in the area to catch the sunrise. You have your choice of trails that hug the Atlantic coast or venture a bit inland, closer to some of Maine’s quaint towns. Make reservations to secure a spot within the 200 plus campgrounds.
Garden Key, Dry Tortugas National Park
The islands are located 70 miles west of Key West. The best way to get there is by ferry, and then plan on pitching a tent somewhere along the 10-site campground. Spend time amongst the coral reefs, blue waters, and mangroves. Dry Tortugas is included within the Great Florida Birding Trail, so bring along your binoculars and bird encyclopedia.
Nicole Humphreys is a traveller who hates being stuck on the tourist trail. She prefers travelling off the beaten path, though still needs some creature comforts to hand! She writes about authentic travel and getting away from the crowds.
