Spring Camping Bucket List

Explore 5 must-visit spring camping bucket list spots with stunning views, wildlife, and adventure. Perfect for a peaceful getaway before summer hits!

🖐️ 5 Unforgettable Destinations to Visit Before Summer Crowds Take Over

There’s something about spring camping. The crisp air, blooming wildflowers, and quieter trails set the perfect stage for outdoor adventures.

Before summer crowds fill the best spots, it’s your chance to soak up the serenity and connect with nature in its freshest form.

This guide will introduce five unforgettable destinations that should be on your spring camping bucket list, each offering unique scenery and an ideal escape.

Ready to plan your next RV getaway? Let’s explore the possibilities.

🐎 Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland

Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves and the sight of wild ponies wandering nearby.

Assateague Island National Seashore is a spring camping paradise you won’t want to miss.

This 37-mile-long barrier island on the Atlantic Coast offers visitors a perfect mix of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure.

Whether you’re seeking sandy beaches or quiet bayside vistas, there’s something here for every camper.

Unspoiled Natural Beauty

Assateague is more than just a beach, it’s an entire ecosystem. The island features sandy shores, salt marshes, serene bays, and maritime forests.

Spring is an ideal time to explore the area, as migratory birds return to the wetlands and wildflowers bloom across the dunes.

Over 200 bird species call this area home, making it a birder’s haven. Keep an eye out for osprey, herons, and even the occasional snowy owl.

Wild Horses: A Charming Encounter

One of Assateague’s most iconic features is the wild horses roaming free across the island. These ponies have adapted to the island’s harsh conditions for centuries and are a major draw for visitors.

While it’s tempting to get up close, remember to stay at least 40 feet away; think “bus-length” distance. Feeding or touching them is discouraged to protect both you and the horses.

Camping Options for Every Adventurer

Assateague offers camping that ranges from primitive tent spots to spaces for RV camping. The sites are located on both the ocean and bay sides of the island, ensuring stunning views wherever you stay.

Keep in mind that facilities are minimal, so be prepared for an off-the-grid experience.

However, the opportunity to camp under a star-filled sky with the sound of waves nearby is well worth it for adventurous souls.

Activities That Inspire Relaxation (or Excitement)

Spring camping at Assateague brings plenty of activities to fill your days. Popular options include:

• Beachcombing for seashells and unique finds
• Surf fishing or casting your line in the bay
• Kayaking and paddleboarding in gentle coastal waters
• Hiking trails that wind through dunes and marshes

Not into high-energy activities? Slowing down and soaking in the sunrise over the Atlantic is just as rewarding.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before setting up camp, it’s helpful to know a few important details:

• Insects: Mosquitoes and flies can be bothersome; pack bug spray.
• Reservations: Campsites fill quickly in the spring. Book early to secure your spot.
• Food Storage: Keep food locked up to avoid attracting the wild horses.
• Weather: Spring nights can dip into cooler temperatures, so bring layers.

Assateague Island National Seashore is a dream for spring campers craving a mix of adventure and tranquility.

Wild horses, rugged beaches, and peaceful forests come together to create an experience you’ll never forget.

⛰️ Olympic National Park, Washington

Spanning nearly a million acres, Olympic National Park in Washington is a natural treasure filled with diverse ecosystems ranging from rugged mountains to lush rainforests.

Visiting in spring offers milder weather, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds, making it a perfect addition to your camping bucket list.

Here are two highlights of this stunning park that you won’t want to miss:

Hiking Hurricane Ridge

Hurricane Ridge provides some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the park. This high-elevation area, located roughly 17 miles south of Port Angeles, offers accessible yet rewarding hiking trails that showcase the Olympic Mountains in all their springtime glory.

Imagine standing atop a ridge nearly a mile high, surveying snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye can see, with rolling meadows dotted by wildflowers below.

The Hurricane Hill Trail, a 3.4-mile roundtrip route, is a must. This paved trail is moderately challenging, but the reward is unbeatable: a 360-degree view that will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Spring is especially captivating here, with subalpine flowers carpeting the hillsides and marmots occasionally peeking out to say hello.

For something less intense, the Big Meadow Trail is an easy and family-friendly option. This paved, quarter-mile path leads through open meadows, offering equally stunning views of the mountains without the extra exertion.

No matter which trail you choose, pack layers; the winds up here can be brisk, even in spring.

Exploring Hoh Rainforest

A visit to Olympic National Park isn’t complete without walking through the enchanting Hoh Rainforest. This is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States, and its beauty is second to none.

With its moss-draped trees, vibrant ferns, and the soothing sounds of the Hoh River flowing nearby, the area feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a fairy tale.

Start your journey on the Hall of Mosses Trail, a short 0.8-mile loop that immerses you in the lush greenery of this ancient forest. Tree trunks are blanketed with rich green mosses, and the canopy above filters the sunlight into a magical, soft glow.

If you’re craving a bit more adventure, try the 1.2-mile Spruce Nature Trail, which winds along the river and deeper into the rainforest.

For the truly ambitious, the Hoh River Trail extends a full 17 miles. While only experienced hikers typically take on the entire trail, the first few miles are accessible and offer incredible views of the old-growth forest and distant peaks.

Spring in the Hoh Rainforest is particularly special as the high rainfall brings out the best in its lush, almost otherworldly vegetation.

Keep in mind that the rainforest experiences high humidity and frequent rain, even in spring. Sturdy, waterproof boots are a must, and throwing a rain jacket in your pack is always a good idea.

Exploring Hurricane Ridge and the Hoh Rainforest showcases two entirely different, yet equally stunning, sides of Olympic National Park. This diversity is part of what makes the area so remarkable for spring camping adventures.

🐴 Dead Horse State Park, Utah

Perched above the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point State Park is a springtime haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

It’s not just the jaw-dropping views that make it special; the park’s world-class camping and hiking offer something for everyone.

Perfect for adventurers with RVs or those seeking a peaceful, off-the-grid escape, this Utah gem deserves a top spot on your spring camping bucket list.

Canyon Rim Campgrounds

Camping here isn’t your average experience, it’s waking up to sprawling views of dramatic canyon landscapes.

The Kayenta Campground, nestled amongst juniper trees, offers a slice of wilderness without sacrificing comfort. Each site includes shade structures, picnic tables, and fire rings, blending practicality with the park’s untamed beauty.

If you’re looking for that million-dollar view, these campsites are as close as it gets.

For RV travelers, electrical hookups are available, but water isn’t due to limited resources in the area. Be sure to fill up in Moab or nearby towns before making your way up the plateau.

Don’t have a camper? Try booking one of the park’s yurts, which adds a cozy layer to your camping trip while keeping you close to nature.

When the day winds down, sunset at the canyon rim is an event in itself. The sky transforms into a sea of orange, pink, and gold hues, casting shadows over the mesas and buttes below.

Bring a camp chair. You’ll want to just sit, breathe, and take it all in.

West Rim Hiking Trail

The West Rim Trail is a must for anyone craving sweeping desert views. This 5-mile loop trail (roundtrip) takes you along some of the park’s most stunning overlooks, weaving through sandstone cliffs and rugged terrain.

It’s the kind of trail where you’ll find yourself stopping every few minutes just to snap a photo, or two.

This trail is relatively beginner-friendly, with several spur trails leading to viewpoints for extra exploration. Spring is perfect for trekking here, as temperatures stay moderate and desert blooms dot the trail with pops of yellow and green.

Whether you bring hiking boots or trail runners, this path really lets you soak up the raw beauty of the high desert.

One of the more iconic stops along the way is Dead Horse Point Overlook, offering a 2,000-foot drop down to the winding Colorado River. It’s postcard-perfect and Instagram-worthy all at once.

Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional bald eagle soaring in the distance or a glimpse of Canyonlands National Park to the south.

No need to rush; take water, sunscreen, and a good hat, it’s all about enjoying the journey. Each sun-drenched vista feels like stepping into a natural amphitheater of sandstone and sky.

Dead Horse Point delivers one-of-a-kind camping and hiking wrapped in Utah’s awe-inspiring desert beauty.

Each moment here feels like you’re standing at the edge of the Earth, surrounded by timeless landscapes that seem to stretch forever.

🏔️ Beartooth Pass, Montana to Yellowstone, Wyoming

Winding its way through the rugged terrain between Montana and Wyoming, Beartooth Pass is often called one of America’s most scenic drives.

Beartooth Highway can close in a heartbeat due to snow. The first time we were in the area. we didn’t get to drive it due to snow.

This 68-mile stretch along US Highway 212 takes you through towering mountain ranges, glacial valleys, and awe-inspiring tundra landscapes.

Hitting a high point of 10,947 feet, Beartooth Pass is an unforgettable spring destination that offers breathtaking views, clear alpine lakes, and up-close encounters with wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful camping experience or the chance to spot rare animals in the wild, this route has it all.

Alpine Lake Stops

Driving along Beartooth Pass feels like you’re floating above the world, and its pristine alpine lakes only add to the magic.

Over 950 glacial lakes dot this region, providing perfectly serene backdrops for camping and exploring. As you climb higher into the pass, the road winds past vibrant blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

• Beartooth Lake: One of the most accessible and stunning, Beartooth Lake sits right off the highway. Surrounded by towering rock formations, it’s an ideal spot for setting up camp or simply enjoying a picnic. The nearby Beartooth Lake Campground offers basic amenities for those looking to stay overnight.
• Island Lake: This gem lies just off the northeastern section of the highway. Its calm, clear waters make it perfect for fishing or simply relaxing after a long drive. Campsites here are tucked into the surrounding pine forests, creating a peaceful retreat.
• Twin Lakes: Located at a slightly higher elevation, these shimmering twin bodies of water are less visited but every bit as picturesque. They’re great for hikers willing to venture off the beaten path.

Spring is an ideal time to visit these lakes, as the snow begins to melt, feeding cascades and waterfalls that are at their peak flow.

Night skies here are brilliant with stars, so grab your tent or settle into your RV, and enjoy a night you’ll never forget.

Wildlife Watching Along the Highway

Beartooth Pass isn’t just about jaw-dropping views, it’s a prime spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Driving this scenic highway is like rolling through a live-action nature documentary.

The area’s unique ecosystems support a wide variety of animals that you might be lucky enough to see.

• Bison and Elk: Often spotted in the meadows and lower elevations, these iconic animals roam freely, sometimes close to the highway itself. Keep your camera ready but always maintain a safe distance.
• Grizzly and Black Bears: The wooded slopes and rugged backcountry are home to both grizzlies and black bears. While bear sightings are less common than smaller animals, they’re a thrilling treat for those who plan to stop and explore.
• Mountain Goats: Look to the cliffs and high rocky outcrops, and you may spot white-furred mountain goats. Their agility on steep terrain is truly impressive.
• Bighorn Sheep: Known for their curled horns, bighorn sheep often graze near the roadside or higher up on exposed ridges.
• Moose and Deer: Near the forested wetlands, moose are an occasional sight alongside mule deer, which are more commonly seen throughout the area.

No visit is complete without a stop in the nearby Lamar Valley in Yellowstone, just a short distance from the highway’s end.

Here, you’ll have the chance to see wolves, especially during the early morning or twilight hours. This wildlife-rich corridor makes Beartooth Pass an unforgettable journey for nature lovers.

Keep binoculars handy and drive slowly, wildlife often appears suddenly near the road. Stay in your car for safe viewing, and remember that patience pays off when you’re waiting for that perfect wildlife moment.

🌄 Moab, Utah

Moab is more than just a gateway to Utah’s famous national parks. This lively town serves up incredible outdoor adventures along with plenty of creature comforts to keep campers happy.

Whether you’re hiking the stunning landscapes of Arches National Park or grabbing a bite from the town’s buzzing food truck scene, Moab is the perfect spring camping destination.

Downtown Food Truck Scene

After a long day of exploring red rock canyons or hiking dusty trails, nothing hits the spot like Moab’s food truck offerings.

The Moab Food Truck Park, located at 39 West 100 North, is a favorite for both locals and visitors. Open from 11 am to 9 pm, it gathers several unique vendors under one roof…well, sky, with plenty of options to satisfy every craving.

Here are some standout food trucks to check out:

• Quesadilla Mobilla: Famous for its loaded quesadillas paired with flavorful homemade sauces.
• Wrap It Up: Fresh wraps and salads perfect for a lighter meal post-hike.
• Tacos el Gordo: Authentic street tacos bursting with bold flavors.
• Miss Gelato: Cool down with delicious, creamy gelato—a treat after Moab’s warm spring days.

Seating areas at the park make it easy to relax and enjoy the lively scene while biting into fresh tacos or savory skewers.

Individual truck hours may vary, so plan to arrive earlier in the evening for the widest selection. Want dessert? Try Moab Icy Treats for shaved ice or AK Roll & Bowl for a sweet rolled ice cream fix.

Arches National Park Hikes

A short drive from downtown Moab takes you to Arches National Park, one of the most iconic landscapes in the United States.

Spring is ideal for hiking here, temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller compared to summer. If you’re visiting with your family, there are plenty of trails that offer breathtaking views without being overly strenuous.

• Balanced Rock (0.3 Miles, Easy): This quick loop lets you walk right up to one of the park’s legendary rock formations. It’s short but perfect for snapping photos with the kids or stretching your legs after arriving in the park.
• Sand Dune Arch (0.3 Miles, Easy): A hit with little ones. The trail leads to a shady arch surrounded by soft sand—basically a natural playground!
• Double Arch (0.5 Miles, Easy): An impressive short trail where you can see two majestic arches side by side. It feels more like a movie set than a real place.
• Landscape Arch (1.6 Miles, Easy to Moderate): As the world’s longest arch, this trail rewards hikers with unforgettable views. The wide, flat trail makes it a manageable distance for families.

For a more iconic experience, the Delicate Arch (3.0 Miles, Moderate) trail is a must, but beware, it’s slightly more challenging and best attempted during cooler morning hours.

Photography tip: Morning and evening light is magical in this park. Aim to start early or linger until dusk for the best photos.

Don’t forget plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat; it’s still the desert, after all.

With Moab’s tasty eats and Arches’ jaw-dropping scenery, this bustling desert oasis earns its spot on your spring camping bucket list.

🏕️ Which Spring Camping Bucket List Destination Will You Choose?

Spring is the perfect season to explore these incredible camping destinations before the crowds roll in. Each location offers something unique, whether it’s wild ponies on the beach, towering arches, or dramatic canyon views.

These five spots beautifully showcase the diversity of the outdoors, from serene alpine lakes to quiet rainforests.

Start planning now to make the most of these experiences. Reservations fill fast, and the best campsites are worth the effort to secure early. Load up the RV, grab your gear, and get ready to check off those bucket list destinations.

If you are looking for affordable travel destinations, Jen over at Wandering Jen has plenty of tips.

Which of these stops will you visit first? Let the promise of sunrise hikes, starlit skies, and story-worthy memories guide your next adventure.

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