In its 2026 Best Places to Camp<\/a> report, published April 2, The Dyrt highlighted the top campgrounds located near popular national parks.<\/p>\n \u201cCamping near national parks offers a fantastic way to experience the great outdoors,\u201d The Dyrt said. \u201cBut many national parks are highly sought-after and have limited availability \u2014 some being fully reserved many months or a year ahead of time.\u201d<\/p>\n The Dyrt teamed up with Girl Camper<\/a> \u2014 a community that connects women through outdoor experiences \u2014 to showcase sites that offer easy access to nature without the hassle of booking inside crowded parks.<\/p>\n \u201cStaying at nearby campgrounds can provide an excellent, easier-to-book alternative for outdoor enthusiasts to visit an iconic park by day, and still have a fantastic setting to return to,\u201d The Dyrt said.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s which California destination made the list:<\/p>\n According to The Dyrt, Horsethief Campground<\/a> is the top place to camp near a national park in the United States.<\/p>\n Along the Colorado River in Utah, the campground sits near both Arches National Park<\/a> and Canyonlands National Park<\/a>, making it a great spot for campers \u201cseeking both adventure and tranquility.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cVisitors can enjoy kayaking<\/a> or canoeing on the Colorado River, trails for mountain biking, and hiking trails offering stunning views,\u201d The Dyrt said. \u201cThe welcoming vibe at Horsethief Campground enhances the overall experience, as the friendly staff and fellow campers create a sense of community.\u201d<\/p>\n Campsites start at about $22 per night, with 88 sites available.<\/p>\n Recreational vehicles, campfires and pets are allowed, making it an accessible option for a wide range<\/a> of travelers, The Dyrt said.<\/p>\n Mono Hot Springs<\/a> landed at No. 10 on The Dyrt\u2019s list of the best places to camp near national parks.<\/p>\n The site near Shaver Lake offers easy access to three popular destinations: Yosemite National Park<\/a>, Kings Canyon National Park<\/a> and Sequoia National Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cMono Hot Springs is the hidden gem in the Sierra National Forest<\/a>, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure,\u201d The Dyrt said.<\/p>\n The area is known for its natural hot springs<\/a>, giving campers a chance to relax while surrounded by mountain views.<\/p>\n Visitors can also explore hiking trails<\/a> and participate in activities including fishing and swimming.<\/p>\n Campsite reservation prices typically range from $37 to $78 per night, with 36 sites available. RVs are not allowed, but campfires and pets are permitted.<\/p>\n The Dyrt said these campgrounds are the best bets for folks looking to stay near national parks:<\/p>\n Horsethief Campground<\/a> near Arches and Canyonlands national parks in UtahBig Creek Campground<\/a> near Glacier National Park in MontanaAndy Guest\/Shenandoah River State Park Campground<\/a> near Shenandoah National Park in VirginiaSmuggler\u2019s Den Campground<\/a> near Acadia National Park in MaineEast Portal Campground<\/a> near Rocky Mountain National Park in ColoradoMaverick Ranch RV Park<\/a> near Big Bend National Park in TexasSalt Creek Recreation Area<\/a> near Olympic National Park in WashingtonJacob Lake Campground<\/a> near Grand Canyon National Park in ArizonaAtherton Creek Campground<\/a> near Grand Teton National Park in WyomingMono Hot Springs<\/a> near Kings Canyon and Sequoia national parksHow did The Dyrt come up with its findings?<\/p>\n According to The Dyrt, the list is based on ratings and reviews of campgrounds across the country.<\/p>\n The company identified the highest-rated and most-reviewed campgrounds<\/a> located close enough to popular national parks to make trips easier for visitors.<\/p>\n Have a question about life in California?<\/p>\n How to California \u2014 a guide to help you live, work and enjoy life in the Golden State, is here to help.<\/p>\n We\u2019ll answer your questions \u2014 big and small \u2014 about state laws, history, culture, recreation and travel.<\/p>\n Ask your questions in the form below (can\u2019t see it? Click here<\/a>) or email howtocalifornia@mcclatchy.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n Loading\u2026<\/p>\n Related Stories from Fresno Bee<\/p>\n RV campers in April 2006. Debbie Noda Modesto Bee archive What\u2019s the best campground near a national park?<\/p>\n
Located in the Sierra National Forest about 90 miles northeast of Fresno along Kaiser Pass Road, Mono Hot Springs was first inhabited by Native Americans and sat along a major trading route. The South Fork San Joaquin River is in the background. FRESNO BEE FILE What\u2019s the top campground close to a California park?<\/p>\n
Bear-proof lockers are seen next to tents at a Yosemite Valley campground in Yosemite National Park, California on Oct. 25, 2025. FREDERIC J. BROWN AFP via Getty Images Which US campgrounds made the top 10 list?<\/p>\n
![\"Profile](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ANGELA-RODRIGUEZ.jpg\")