As a camping aficionado, you probably have ventured into plenty of popular campsites near you. Whether it is dispersed camping or commercial campgrounds every site has something unique to offer.
We compiled some of the most breathtaking places you can’t miss camping at, around the world.
Lake District
Lake District in the UK has a lot to offer the outdoor enthusiast. The whole region is riddled with rolling hills, beautiful lakes, and quaint villages. It’s a popular hiking and camping destination for the locals.
You have multiple choices at Lake District when it comes to where you can park your tent. For example, if you are traveling with family, spots like Great Langdale cater to a lot of groups with inclusive water activities. You will find trails nearby as well. If you are camping alone you can choose less crowded areas like Borrowdale and Lake Buttermere. If you are in Europe, Lake District is a must-visit location.
Volcanoes National Park
Located in Hawaii, the Volcanoes National Park is one of the few places in the state where you can pitch a tent. The unique thing about camping here is that you can watch two active volcanoes from your campsite. You get to witness the molten lava stream into the ocean. During the day you can book a tour to look at the distinct rock formations in the park.
The Namakanipaio Campground has comfortable amenities such as hot showers. There is also the Kulanaokuaiki Campground.
The Dolomites
The Dolomites in Italy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in northern Italy and if you are looking for a destination in the mountains, this is it! Here you get to camp in the Alpine peaks and explore the meadows and local villages.
Dolomites has something for everyone. If you are camping solo, you will find some challenging trails and routes near Tre Cime di Lavaredo. If you are camping with family, we recommend camping spots like Camping Olympia, where you can avail recreational activities such as biking. This Italian destination offers more than just an outdoor experience, you get to immerse yourself in a different culture and get to experience the Italian Alps, the likes of which are very few.
The Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef gets its name for being the biggest coral reef system in the world. Located in Australia, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can camp on the nearby islands. At Whitsunday Island you not only get to wake up to the sunlight and the sound of the waves crashing to the shore, you also get access to pristine beaches, hiking trails, and water activities. Don’t depart before you get to witness the corals yourself.
Patagonia
Patagonia is the place to be if you crave adventure. Located in both Argentina and Chile, the region boasts mountains, fjords, and glaciers. You can avail activities such as wildlife spotting and other excursions at the Torres del Paine National Park. The park is popular amongst people camping in groups and families.
If you are camping by yourself you can challenge yourself with the complex landscape in the more remote region of Cerro Fitz Roy which is equally breathtaking. So much of Patagonia will pique your curiosity; it is full of natural wonders.
Los Padres National Forest
Los Padres National Forest in Big Sur California is excellent for camping in comfort. The Fernwood Resort Campground has a myriad of tents you can book for your trip. They are equipped with amenities such as a bathroom, electricity, and a laundry room. Campers can restock items by visiting the onsite convenience store.
The diverse geographical park has rivers, streams and beaches you can explore. When you are not hiking or sitting by the campfire you can walk to the Fernwood Tavern where local artists feature every night.
Serengeti
The Serengeti National Park is situated in Tanzania. You may have heard of the Serengeti for the Great Migration, which is where every year millions of zebras and wildebeest journey across the plains. Don’t worry, the campsites are secluded from these regions.
You can set up your tent in the Seronera Camp which is oriented more towards families and groups. Places like the Grumeti Reserves are more secluded and allow adventurers to fully immerse themselves in nature in the African savannah. Reconnect with nature by observing the African wildlife. The Serengeti National Park is a place to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Banff
Banff National Park is a natural wonder located in Alberta, Canada. If you are an outdoor enthusiast with an interest in wildlife, Banff National Park is home to elks, mountain goats, and bears. It has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Two Jack Lakeside Campground is great for families with its scenic views from your tent and plenty of hiking trails. There is also Egypt Lake which is suited to campers looking for solitude.
Yosemite
Yosemite National Park in California prides itself in maintaining 95% of the park as natural landscape. Unlike other camping sites, here you won’t come across crowds of ATVs and vehicles.
Yosemite has unending spaces to explore. It is the best place to unplug and reconnect with nature. The waterfalls go up to 2500 feet high. Hiking here makes one truly appreciate the majesty of nature. Some campgrounds have more than 300 spots.
Glacier Bay
The Glacier Bay National Park is a rustic place for people looking for a challenging adventure. Most of the park is composed of water. You can only access some campgrounds like the Bartlett Cove on foot. You don’t have to lug loads of food and supplies to your campground, you can go fishing by the campsite and even build a fire that will serve as an outdoor stove and for keeping warm.
Preparing for Camping Abroad
Things You Need To Pack
Now that you know what campsite to book a spot at, you can focus on arranging for and packing the essentials you will have to travel with.
Tent
Unless you are visiting a glamping site you will have to pack your own tent and sleeping bag. Depending on what the weather conditions at your planned campsite are going to be like, get a tent that will protect you from the elements.
Don’t compromise on the quality of your shelter. If a new tent does not fit into your budget you can always look up a second-hand tent that will be useful to you for years to come.
Outdoor Kitchen Equipment
You need stoves that can fit in compatible shelters. If not, then you should get a countertop portable stove. Pack utensils so you can cook your food so you don’t have to rely on arranging for food in a foreign place.
You cannot lug water if you are traveling far. So you should pack a portable water filter that you can use at a nearby water source like a river or a stream.
A Light Source
You need portable flashlights and lanterns to illuminate your campsite. Every area has its own rules about a campfire, so it is always safe to bring your own light source for nighttime.
A First Aid Kit
A first aid kit should have bandages, antiseptic ointment, allergy meds, OTC pain meds, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Other than your first aid kit you should have essential items such as:
- Local emergency numbers.
- An emergency blanket
- A signal device in the unlikely event that you get lost.
- Map
- Compass
Look Up Regulations Of The Place
Every country has its way of camping. This takes into account customs and traditions that are valued in that place. For example, if you are visiting a campsite in a conservative country, you have to dress modestly as a way to show you respect their culture.
Other things to take into consideration are gestures that may be offensive in this country which mean nothing back home. Do your homework on what is respectful and disrespectful amongst the local people. Obey the policies laid out by the region.
Lastly, preserve the beauty of these foreign campsites. Leave the campgrounds as you found them with minimal impact from your camping adventure.