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Best Campsites near Major Cities + Camping on a Budget : Unleash Your Outdoor Adventure

Updated: Nov 16, 2023

Roughing It in Style: How to Have an Epic Camping Trip Without Breaking the Bank


Are you itching for an adventure in the great outdoors but worried about the dent it might make in your wallet? Well, fear not, because we've got your back! In this budget-conscious guide, we're going to show you how to embrace the rugged wilderness without sacrificing style or emptying your bank account. So grab your gear, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to have the camping trip of a lifetime – bells and whistles included!


Top US Campsites and Campgrounds. Great for family vacations and group camping.


Find Your Perfect Campsite

The first step to an epic camping trip on a budget is finding the perfect campsite that won't break the bank. Look for state parks or national forests that offer affordable or even free camping options. Do your research, check out local websites or apps, and read reviews to find hidden gems with breathtaking views and great amenities. You'll be roasting marshmallows under the stars in no time!


Here's a list of Great Camp Sites in the US that may be closer than you think!


Las Vegas, Nevada: Red Rock Canyon Campground

Tucked away in the stunning Red Rock Canyon, this campground offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas Strip. With over 50 campsites, ranging from tent-only sites to RV hookups, this campground has something for every camping style. The stunning desert views and proximity to fantastic hiking trails make this a must-visit camping spot in Las Vegas.


Address: 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161


Atlanta, Georgia: Stone Mountain Park Campground

With over 400 campsites, this park offers scenic views of Georgia’s famous Stone Mountain. From fishing to hiking to laser shows, there’s something to do for everyone in the family. Whether you’re tent or RV camping, Stone Mountain Park is an excellent destination for camping in Atlanta.


Address: 4003 Stonewall Jackson Dr, Stone Mountain, GA 30083


New Orleans, Louisiana: St. Bernard State Park

Situated in the heart of the wetlands, this state park offers many outdoor activities such as fishing, crabbing, and hiking. With over 53 campsites, this is an ideal spot for those looking for a relaxing retreat away from the busy city of New Orleans.


Address: 501 St Bernard Pkwy, Braithwaite, LA 70040


Austin, Texas: Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Tucked along a five-mile panoramic road on Lake Austin, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Austin. From swimming to kayaking to fishing, there's something to do for both campers and day visitors in this 1,146-acre park.


Address: 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730


Hawaii: Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Waiʻānapanapa State Park is the perfect camping destination for those wanting to witness Hawaii's tropical paradise. This state park has 12 rustic cabins with 120 tent sites right along the beach, perfect for a beach-side camping experience. The black-sand beach, lava tube, and blowholes are unique attractions to this state park.


Address: Hana Highway, Hana, HI 96713


Denver, Colorado: Cherry Creek State Park

With an expansive 880-acre reservoir, this state park offers camping, hiking biking, fishing among other activities. The park has more than 125 campsites that accommodate all types of campers. Cherry Creek State Park is a peaceful, diverse, and blissful destination only thirty minutes from downtown Denver.


Address: 4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014


Portland, Oregon: Oxbow Regional Park

Tucked away in a protected stretch of old-growth forest, Oxbow Regional Park is an ideal camping ground for adventurous campers. With a secluded feel despite being just 30 minutes from downtown Portland, the natural beauty and winding Sandy River make this a top-notch destination for relaxed camping.


Address: 3010 SE Oxbow Pkwy, Gresham, OR 97080


Houston, Texas: Brazos Bend State Park

This state park is famous for its alligators, but Brazos Bend State Park is much more than the reptile species. Visitors can hike any one of ten trails, fish over year-round, as well as camp next to the lake. The park has six different campgrounds, accommodating anything from tents to larger campers and RVs. Brazos Bend State Park is an excellent getaway destination from the nearby noise of downtown Houston.


Address: 21901 FM442 Rd, Needville, TX 77461


Check for great deals on campsites and camping adventures - Campsite Deals

Rent or Borrow Gear

If you're new to camping or don't want to invest in expensive gear, renting or borrowing equipment is the way to go. Check out outdoor gear rental companies, local outdoor clubs, or even ask friends and family if they have spare gear you can borrow. From tents and sleeping bags to cooking stoves and hammocks, renting or borrowing gear lets you enjoy all the bells and whistles without breaking the bank.


Plan Your Meals

Who says camping food has to be boring? With a little creativity and planning, you can whip up delicious meals that will make your fellow campers drool. Plan your meals ahead of time and make a shopping list, so you don't end up buying unnecessary items. Opt for simple and versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes, like eggs, canned beans, and pasta. And don't forget the classic campfire treats – s'mores, anyone?




Let There Be Light (On a Budget)

Lighting is essential when you're out in the wilderness, but that doesn't mean you have to splurge on expensive camping lanterns. Get creative with budget-friendly options like solar-powered lights or string lights that will not only brighten up your campsite but also create a cozy and magical ambiance. Plus, they'll make your Instagram-worthy campfire photos truly shine!


Channel Your Inner MacGyver

When it comes to camping, improvisation is the name of the game. Get resourceful and use what you have on hand to solve any camping conundrums that come your way. Forgot a camping pillow? Fill a sack with clothes for a makeshift pillow. Need a makeshift lantern? Attach a headlamp to a water bottle for an instant ceiling light. Embrace your inner MacGyver and let your creativity shine under the starry sky.


Entertainment Galore

Camping is all about connecting with nature, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy some good ol' entertainment. Bring along a deck of cards, a portable speaker for campfire sing-alongs, or even a DIY outdoor movie night with a portable projector and a white sheet. Who needs a fancy resort when you can have a movie night under the stars, right?




Pack for All Weather

Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so it's essential to be prepared for all types of weather. Pack versatile clothing layers that can be mixed and matched to adapt to changing temperatures. Don't forget a waterproof outer layer, sturdy hiking boots, and a hat to protect you from the scorching sun or sudden rainfall. Being prepared will ensure you're comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.


Leave No Trace

As responsible campers, it's our duty to leave nature as pristine as we found it. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace by packing out all your trash, respecting wildlife, and leaving your campsite just the way you found it. Let's keep the great outdoors beautiful for future adventurers to enjoy.


So, my fellow budget-savvy adventurers, with these tips and tricks, you'll be able to have an epic camping trip without emptying your wallet. Embrace the beauty of nature, cozy up by the campfire, and marvel at the starry night sky – all while enjoying the bells and whistles that make your camping experience a memorable one. Get ready to rough it in style, my friends, because the great outdoors is calling your name! Happy camping! 🌲🏕️🔥


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