Campsites Archives - Camping Press Your Camping Partner Tue, 02 Apr 2024 05:43:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://campingpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-camping-press-high-resolution-logo-3841487-7747208-32x32.png Campsites Archives - Camping Press 32 32 Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio- Camping Guide https://campingpress.com/hocking-hills-state-park-ohio-camping-guide/ https://campingpress.com/hocking-hills-state-park-ohio-camping-guide/#respond Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:53:24 +0000 https://campingpress.com/?p=374 Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio lies Hocking Hills State Park, widely considered one of the most scenic parks in the Midwest. This nearly 2,000 acre park attracts over 4 million visitors per year who come to explore the park’s towering rock formations, deep recess caves, and winding hiking trails. In this aticle ... Read more

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Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio lies Hocking Hills State Park, widely considered one of the most scenic parks in the Midwest. This nearly 2,000 acre park attracts over 4 million visitors per year who come to explore the park’s towering rock formations, deep recess caves, and winding hiking trails. In this aticle we talk about Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio- Camping Guide.

For campers, Hocking Hills offers a peaceful retreat into nature while still providing modern Facilities and convenience. The park has several family-friendly campground options including camper cabins, primitive backpack sites, and a large campground with electrical sites. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays.

This camping guide covers everything you need to know for a fun and memorable camping trip to Hocking Hills State Park including campground details, reservation information, park activities, and area attractions. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV comfort, Hocking Hills has an adventure for you.

Campgrounds and Campsites

Hocking Hills State Park has a variety of campsites and lodging to accommodate different styles of camping and RVs. Here are the main options:

Camper Cabins – The park has 17 camper cabins that sleep up to 6 people each. The cabins have heating/AC, picnic tables, fire rings and grill but no running water. Nearby restrooms and showers are available.

Primitive Backpack Sites – For a remote backcountry experience, the park has 5 backpack sites that require hiking to access. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. Pit toilets are nearby but no water is available.

Hocking Hills Campground – The main campground has 197 sites for both tents and RVs up to 40 feet long. About half the sites have electric hookups. The campground has modern bathrooms with showers and a dump station.

Group Camp – One large group site is available for reservations and can accommodate up to 40 people. The site has parking, picnic tables, fire rings and access to restrooms.

Making Reservations

Hocking Hills State Park campgrounds are extremely popular and sites book up months in advance, especially on weekends. Here are some key tips for making reservations:

– Book Early! Sites can be reserved 6 months in advance. The earlier you book, the better.

– Have Flexible Dates. If certain weekends are full, try extending your trip to include weekdays.

– Check for Cancellations. Sites may open up closer to arrival dates if there are cancellations.

– Consider Nearby Parks. As Hocking Hills fills up, expand your search to include Lake Hope, Tar Hollow or Shawnee State Park.

The best way to make reservations is through the Ohio State Parks website or by calling the reservation call center.

Park Activities

The natural beauty and hiking trails are the main attraction at Hocking Hills. Here are some of the top things to see and do in the park:

– Hiking – Over 15 miles of hiking trails range from easy .5 mile loops to longer 4+ mile trails. Don’t miss popular routes like Old Man’s Cave and Rock House.

– Cedar Falls – The park’s largest waterfall has gorgeous views from above or hike down to cool off at the base of the falls.

– Rock Climbing – Sandstone outcrops like Whispering Cave are popular for climbing. Permits required.

– Fishing – Catch trout, bass and bluegill in the park’s ponds and streams. Ohio fishing license required.

– Canoeing – Bring your own canoe or kayak to explore Hocking River Water Trail through the park.

– Naturalist Programs – Join ranger-led programs like stargazing, history hikes and cave tours. Program schedule online.

– Picnicking – Several picnic areas have tables, grills and scenic views.

Area Attractions

Along with the natural beauty of Hocking Hills, there are charming small towns, ziplines, and more adventurous excursions just minutes from the park boundaries.

Logan – As the closest town, Logan offers local shops and restaurants including the popular Hocking Hills Dining Lodge.

Zip Lines & Aerial Parks – For high adrenaline thrills, try zip lining through the forest canopy at Hocking Hills Canopy Tours or climb aerial obstacles at High Rocks Adventures.

ATV Tours – Rugged off-road tours explore old coal mines and scenic trails in the area around the state park.

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway – Take a relaxing ride through the forest and river valley on vintage train cars. Themed event trains too like murder mysteries and eagle watches.

Rock Mill – See the restored 200-year old Rock Mill distillery and old stone bridge while hiking easy trails along the river.

With stunning natural beauty and an abundance of ways to experience the outdoors, Hocking Hills State Park offers an idyllic and convenient nature getaway for campers. Plan your next camping adventure exploring the trails, waterfalls and forests of Hocking Hills. I sincerely hope you find this “Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio- Camping Guide” article helpful.

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Ludington State Park, Michigan- Must Know Information https://campingpress.com/ludington-state-park-michigan-must-know-information/ https://campingpress.com/ludington-state-park-michigan-must-know-information/#respond Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:47:35 +0000 https://campingpress.com/?p=371 Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Ludington State Park is one of the top state parks in Michigan, offering over 5,300 acres of wooded dunes, sandy beaches, crystal clear lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails. As the state’s first designated wilderness park, Ludington preserves some of Michigan’s most pristine stretches of shoreline, ... Read more

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Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Ludington State Park is one of the top state parks in Michigan, offering over 5,300 acres of wooded dunes, sandy beaches, crystal clear lakes, and miles of hiking and biking trails. As the state’s first designated wilderness park, Ludington preserves some of Michigan’s most pristine stretches of shoreline, dunes, and forest, providing abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation. In this article we talk about Ludington State Park, Michigan and its Must Know Information.

Location and Directions

Ludington State Park sits just north of the city of Ludington in western Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, about 130 miles north of Grand Rapids and 230 miles northwest of Detroit. The park entrance is located off M-116 highway, with the address being 8800 W. M-116 Ludington, MI 49431. Most GPS devices will navigate you there easily by searching for “Ludington State Park.” From Ludington, simply go north on N. Lakeshore Drive and turn left onto W. M-116. The park entrance is just 2 miles down the road. If coming from highway US-31, take the M-116 exit west and follow the signs.

Operating Hours and Fees

Ludington State Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day. The park entrance booth is staffed and the standard $9 daily entrance fee per vehicle is collected during the season from April to November. From December to March, you can enter for free but the gate may be closed outside of daylight hours if unmanned.

The campground is open from the last weekend in April through mid-October. Campsites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance for fees ranging from $17 (basic site) up to $37 (full hook-up premium site) per night. There is also a non-reservable hike-in campground available first-come first-served for $17/night.

Things to Do

With over 18 miles of hiking trails, nearly 7 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, and two major inland lakes – Hamlin Lake and Ludington Lake – spanning the park, there are endless recreational opportunities in Ludington State Park across all seasons. Top activities include:

– Hiking – Favorite trails include the 1-mile Nature Trail loop, 5.8-mile Lost Lake Trail connecting to the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness, and the 4-mile Dunes Trail overlooking Lake Michigan.

– Swimming – Lifeguarded beaches at Hamlin Lake and Ludington Lake are open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Great for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing.

– Fishing – Hamlin Lake and Ludington Lake have populations of bluegill, largemouth bass, northern pike and more. A Michigan fishing license is required.

– Kayaking/Canoeing – Rentals available. Paddle Hamlin Lake, Ludington Lake or Big Sable River running through the park. Calm inland water perfect for beginners.

Camping – Modern campground with 323 sites. Hike-in primitive sites also available. Electrical hookups, restrooms and showers on-site.

– Biking – Nearly 7 miles of bike trail spanning dune ridges, forests and shoreline. Mountain biking also popular on backcountry trails. Bike rentals available in town of Ludington.

– Cross-Country Skiing – Over 12 miles of wooded trails provide excellent beginner terrain. Track-style skis can also be used along the park road when snow-covered for a more challenging experience.

– Birdwatching – Prime birding location along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Songbirds, waterfowl, birds of prey and migrating species can be spotted, especially during spring and fall migrations.

Park Facilities

Ludington State Park offers several amenities and conveniences for visitors:

– Beach House – Heated bathhouse with restrooms, outdoor rinse station and concession stand at Ludington Lake Beach.

– Playground – Located near the campground and Ludington Lake Beach.

– Picnic Areas – 4 main picnic grounds with tables and grills available to reserve for a fee.

– Amphitheater – Hosts interpretive programs and evening campfire circles in season. Located near campground.

– Big Sable Lighthouse – Historic lighthouse with museum and gift shop open seasonally, located just north of park.

– Park Office/Contact Station – Get maps, purchase firewood, and consult with park rangers here.

Where to Stay

The campground is extremely popular and sites book up quickly, especially in peak summer. Plan ahead to reserve your site online or by phone up to 6 months in advance through the Michigan DNR. Backcountry camping is also available for backpackers willing to hike to more remote areas of the park.

If camping isn’t your style, Ludington has many waterfront hotels and B&Bs with great access to the park and its beaches. Top-rated choices include La Farge B&B Inn, Cartier Mansion B&B, and Shoreline Inn and Conference Center.

Nearby Attractions

If you want to venture beyond the park, Ludington offers plenty of things to see and do:

– Big Sable Point Lighthouse – Iconic lighthouse just north of the park offering tours and spectacular Lake Michigan overlook.

– Ludington North Breakwater Light – A walkable 1⁄2 mile long breakwall extending into Lake Michigan with a lighthouse at the end.

– Historic Downtown Ludington – Quaint downtown with shops, restaurants, antique stores, a marina and scenic riverwalk.

– SS Badger Car Ferry – Take a fun day trip across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin via this huge historic ferry.

– Silver Lake State Park – Quiet park with dunes, hiking trails and off-road vehicle areas just 10 minutes south.

– Lincoln Hills Golf Club – Highly rated semi-private course perfect for a scenic day on the greens.

Ludington State Park is a treasured natural paradise offering year-round fun. With sandy beaches, crystal clear inland lakes, wooded dunes and trails galore, it’s easy to see why Ludington draws over 1 million visitors annually. Use this guide to help you plan your Michigan outdoor getaway! I sincerely hope you find this “Ludington State Park, Michigan- Must Know Information” article hlepful.

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Joshua Tree National Park, California- Guide for Your Visit https://campingpress.com/joshua-tree-national-park-california-guide-for-your-visit/ https://campingpress.com/joshua-tree-national-park-california-guide-for-your-visit/#respond Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:40:20 +0000 https://campingpress.com/?p=368 Located in the Mojave and Colorado deserts of Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most unique and visually stunning national parks in the USA. Known for its funky looking Joshua trees, magnificent rock formations, and spectacular views, this 790,636 acre park offers visitors a chance to experience the wonder of the ... Read more

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Located in the Mojave and Colorado deserts of Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is one of the most unique and visually stunning national parks in the USA. Known for its funky looking Joshua trees, magnificent rock formations, and spectacular views, this 790,636 acre park offers visitors a chance to experience the wonder of the desert. In this article we talk about Joshua Tree National Park, California- Guide for Your Visit.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or extended camping vacation, this guide will provide everything you need to know to make the most out of your visit to Joshua Tree.

Getting to Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree sits about 140 miles east of Los Angeles, 175 miles northeast of San Diego, and 215 miles southwest of Las Vegas. The closest major airport is Palm Springs International Airport, which is about 45 miles away. Ontario and Los Angeles International Airports are also popular options for flying into the area.

Once you arrive, you can enter Joshua Tree from the north or west entrances. The north entrance is closest to the town of Twentynine Palms. The west entrance will put you closer to the town of Joshua Tree, where many of the amenities like restaurants and hotels are located.

If driving, use a GPS or mapping app to navigate to the park entrances. Be aware that once inside the park, cell service and GPS can be spotty. Have a paper map handy just in case.

Best Times to Visit

With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Joshua Tree enjoys pleasant weather for outdoor exploration most of the time. However, summertime temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, making hiking uncomfortable or even dangerous. For this reason, the best times to visit are in the spring (March-April) or fall (October-November).

During the spring, you’ll be treated to wildflower blooms and mild temperatures perfect for hiking and rock climbing. Fall brings cooler weather and the park’s signature Joshua trees burst with greenish flower clusters.

The most popular season is winter, when temperatures are cooler and the crowds flock in to enjoy rock climbing, hiking, camping and star gazing. If solitude is what you’re after, aim for a weekday visit or the off-peak seasons in early winter or late spring.

Top Things to See and Do

Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Joshua Tree National Park:

1. Marvel at Joshua Trees
The funky, branch-reaching Joshua trees are the park’s namesake and what most visitors come to see. Learn about them at the Joshua Tree Visitor Center, then hit the trails to view these unique plants up close. The most dense Joshua tree forests are located near the park’s northern border.

2. Rock Climb and Boulder
With over 8,000 established rock climbing routes, Joshua Tree is one of the world’s top climbing destinations. From bouldering to sport and traditional climbing, there are challenges for all skill levels. Be sure to stop by a visitor center to get updated route information before climbing.

3. Hike and Explore
Over 200 miles of hiking trails allow visitors to explore the park’s desert landscape. Enjoy short nature trails, longer day hikes to sights like Barker Dam and Fortynine Palms Oasis, or multi-day backpacking treks. Popular trails include Hidden Valley, Ryan Mountain, and Lost Palms Oasis.

4. Stargaze at a Campground
Joshua Tree is far from city lights, making it an International Dark Sky Park with incredible stargazing. Pitch a tent at a campground like Jumbo Rocks or Hidden Valley to gaze at the Milky Way floating above giant boulder formations.

5. Check Out Keys View
At 5,185 feet, this viewpoint offers panoramic vistas over the Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the park. Go at sunset for magical desert views.

6. Marvel at Skull Rock
This famous rock formation resembles a giant skull, making it one of the park’s most iconic sites. Located near Jumbo Rocks campground, it has appeared in movies, TV shows, and music videos. Snap that perfect Instagram photo!

Where to Stay

Camping is popular within the park, but spaces fill up fast. Make reservations in advance through Recreation.gov. Backcountry camping is also available with a free permit.

For non-campers, lodging options exist in the gateway towns of Joshua Tree and Twentyine Palms just outside the park. Choose from hotels, motels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals in the area. The town of Joshua Tree offers more dining and shopping choices compared to Twentyine Palms.

Essential Tips for Visiting

To make the most of your Joshua Tree visit, keep these essential tips in mind:

– Bring plenty of water and drink frequently. It’s hot and dry!
– Wear sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing against the intense desert sun.
– Watch out for desert wildlife like snakes, scorpions, and black widow spiders.
– Pack layers of clothing; desert temps can fluctuate widely between day and night.
– Hike only on marked trails and carry a trail map
– Check road conditions and weather forecasts before visiting, flash flooding can occur.
– Stop by a visitor center to ask rangers about current conditions before venturing out.
– Cell service is spotty; have an offline map for navigation.
– Take all trash out with you to keep Joshua Tree pristine.

Make Joshua Tree National Park a Must-See Destination

With its iconic Joshua trees, towering rock piles, and desert climate, Joshua Tree offers adventurers a landscape unlike any other national park. From rock climbing to stargazing to snapping that perfect Instagram photo, this guide covers everything you need to know to plan an amazing visit.

By following these tips and top attractions, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience exploring the wonders of Joshua Tree National Park. So pack your bags and head out to create lasting California desert memories among the funky Joshua Tree forests! I sincerely hope you find this “Joshua Tree National Park, California- Guide for Your Visit” article helpful.

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Arches National Park, Utah- Guide for camping https://campingpress.com/arches-national-park-utah-guide-for-camping/ https://campingpress.com/arches-national-park-utah-guide-for-camping/#respond Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:34:20 +0000 https://campingpress.com/?p=365 Tucked away in the high desert of eastern Utah lies one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the American Southwest – Arches National Park. This iconic park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, soaring pinnacles, massive balanced rocks, and intricate patterns etched into crimson colored cliff walls. From Delicate Arch to Landscape Arch ... Read more

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Tucked away in the high desert of eastern Utah lies one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the American Southwest – Arches National Park. This iconic park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, soaring pinnacles, massive balanced rocks, and intricate patterns etched into crimson colored cliff walls. From Delicate Arch to Landscape Arch and beyond, Arches serves up one jaw-dropping scene after another. In this article we talk about Arches National Park, Utah- Guide for camping.

And one of the best ways to experience this natural wonderland is by camping right within the park itself. Pitch your tent or park your RV beneath the Milky Way with the fiery glow of Turret Arch lighting up the night sky. Wake up to catch the first rays of dawn spreading across the Windows Section. Spend your days hiking to iconic landmarks and your nights gathered around the campfire telling stories under a canopy of stars.

If this sounds like your kind of camping adventure, read on for everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Arches camping trip!

Choosing a Campground in Arches National Park

Arches National Park offers two developed campgrounds for overnight visitors. The Devils Garden Campground is located 18 miles from the park entrance at the end of the main park road, while the Squaw Flat Campground sits near the entrance just 5 miles from the visitor center.

Devils Garden Campground

The Devils Garden Campground is the more popular and convenient basecamp for exploring Arches National Park. Situated right alongside the Devils Garden Trailhead, campers have direct access to viewpoints for Landscape Arch, Partition Arch, Private Arch, and more. The campground features 50 individual sites available on a first-come, first-served basis year-round.

In the height of summer, sites often fill by mid-morning so early arrival is key. Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and upright bear-proof food storage locker. Drinking water and flush toilets are available seasonally. There are no RV hookups, though sites can accommodate both tents and RVs up to 30 feet in length. Generators are prohibited.

Squaw Flat Campground

For a more primitive and peaceful experience, consider camping at the modest Squaw Flat Campground near the park entrance. This campground offers 26 non-electric sites on a first-come, first-served basis.

While spartan in amenities with just vault toilets and no running water, it does allow campfires and is open to both tents and RVs. The downside is the location 5 miles from the visitor center and over 20 miles from iconic landmarks like Delicate Arch. But with fewer crowds, unobstructed views of the La Sal Mountains, and even the occasional moose wandering through, it makes a nice alternative for a serene camping getaway.

Backcountry Camping in Arches

Venture beyond the boundaries of the developed campgrounds and you’ll discover boundless backcountry camping opportunities. From remote desert washes to ridges with limitless views, Arches serves up endless potential sites to pitch your tent under the stars.

Permits are required for all backcountry camping, with a limit of 10 permits issued per day. Sites are assigned at the time of permit issuance on a first-come, first-served basis. Backcountry camping is limited to certain zones and subject to a variety of common-sense regulations to preserve the fragile desert ecosystem.

When choosing a backcountry site, stay aware of potential flood zones in drainages and washes. Also avoid camping at the bases of arches or walls where danger from falling rocks exists. Leave No Trace principles are essential to protect the landscape and ensure future visitor enjoyment.

Plan Your Visit: Camping Reservations and Permits

With Arches popularity continuing to skyrocket, planning your visit in advance is highly recommended to secure a campsite and required permits. Here are some key things you’ll need to know:

Campground Reservations

Neither of Arches campgrounds accept reservations, operating solely on a first-come, first-served basis instead. Your best bet is to arrive early in the day to claim a site, especially during peak visitation months. Monitoring campground occupancy online can also help gauge availability to time your arrival.

Backcountry Permits
Permits are required for all backcountry camping within Arches National Park, with a maximum of 10 permits issued per day. The cost is $5 per permit plus $20 per group per night. Permits must be obtained in person no more than 48 hours in advance at the Backcountry Desk at the Visitor Center. Only three nights of backcountry camping are allowed per seven day period.

Entrance Passes
All private vehicles entering Arches National Park require a park entrance pass. Options include Arches specific annual passes or broader America the Beautiful annual passes allowing access to all National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands. You can also pay a per vehicle seven day pass just to visit Arches.

Best Time to Visit Arches for Camping

With over 1.5 million visitors every year, Arches National Park sees crowds at all times. But weather patterns do impact campground availability and comfort. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of visiting during different seasons:

Summer
July and August are the most popular months, bringing very hot weather and bigger crowds. Campsites fill fastest and you’ll encounter more people on the trails. But long hours of daylight and warm nights make for pleasant camping. Just prepare for intense sun and occasional thunderstorms.

Fall
September and October offer ideal weather with cooler temps and smaller crowds. Most facilities are still open and you’ll enjoy amazing photography conditions at sunrise/sunset. Beware fall can also deliver sudden winter snow squalls.

Winter
Frigid nights and snowy conditions limit winter camping. But you’ll discover beautiful desert scenery dusted in white with rare solitude on the trails. Winter weather is highly variable – come prepared for anything from dry and sunny to whiteout blizzard conditions.

Spring
April through May offer moderate weather and smaller crowds before summer visitation spikes. But some park facilities may still be closed early season. Flash flooding can be an issue so avoid camping in washes and drainages.

Packing List for Camping in Arches National Park

The desert environment of Arches National Park demands careful preparation with extremes in both hot and cold conditions. Use this packing checklist to be ready for anything:

Camping Gear
– Tent/RV in good condition
– Sleeping bags rated for cold weather
– Sleeping pads for insulation
– Camp chairs, camp table
– Headlamps with spare batteries
– Lanterns (no open flames or candles allowed)
– Cooking stove and fuel (campfires only allowed in grills)
– Firewood (gathering wood prohibited)
– Cooler with ice
– Reusable water bottles, jugs
– Food storage containers
– Bear canister (required for backcountry)
– Garbage bags

Clothing/Footwear
– Lightweight, breathable layers
– Fleece or down jackets for cold
– Rain poncho or rain jacket
– Warm gloves and hat
– Hiking pants and shorts
– Hiking shoes – broken in!
– Sandals/camp shoes
– Socks – wool for hiking

Outdoor Gear
– Daypack for hikes
– Hiking poles
– Insect repellent
– Sunscreen/lip balm
– Sunglasses
– Brimmed hat
– Bandanas/buff
– Headlamp/flashlight
– Compass/maps, GPS
– Camp towel, toiletries
– First aid kit
– Duct tape

Where to Camp in Arches National Park

With endless natural beauty spanning 76,679 acres, choosing where to pitch your tent in Arches can be overwhelming. Consider these areas to maximize your experience:

Devils Garden
Direct access to one of the most popular hiking trails makes the Devils Garden Campground the ideal basecamp for exploring. Rise early to beat crowds on the Devils Garden Loop Trail to icons like Landscape Arch, Partition Arch, Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, and the unforgettable Delicate Arch.

Balanced Rock
The Windows Section near Balanced Rock delivers the highest concentration of named arches visible from one area. From your campsite, enjoy sunrises at the Cove of Caves and hike to attractions like Turret Arch, North Window Arch, South Window Arch and the parade of arches along the Windows Primitive Loop.

Fiery Furnace
Explore the maze of narrow sandstone canyons and giant fins known as the Fiery Furnace. Obtain permits for the ranger-guided hikes or apply for more exclusive permits to lead your own small group through this unique landscape. Access the Fiery Furnace from campsites at the Devils Garden area.

Delicate Arch Viewpoint
While not technically located inside Arches, the viewpoint for Delicate Arch within neighboring Canyonlands National Park provides a breathtaking vantage for sunset and sunrise on this iconic landmark. I sincerely hope you find this “Arches National Park, Utah- Guide for camping” article helpful.

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Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii- Your Complete guide for camping https://campingpress.com/volcanoes-national-park-hawaii-your-complete-guide-for-camping/ https://campingpress.com/volcanoes-national-park-hawaii-your-complete-guide-for-camping/#respond Fri, 22 Mar 2024 10:26:20 +0000 https://campingpress.com/?p=361 Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park is an incredible place to experience the power and wonder of volcanoes. With over 150 miles of hiking trails winding through volcanic craters, rainforests, and lava fields, it’s a camper’s paradise. In this article we talk abut Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii- Your Complete guide for ... Read more

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Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park is an incredible place to experience the power and wonder of volcanoes. With over 150 miles of hiking trails winding through volcanic craters, rainforests, and lava fields, it’s a camper’s paradise. In this article we talk abut Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii- Your Complete guide for camping.

Where to Camp in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park has two drive-in campgrounds that provide a home base for exploring the park. The campgrounds offer tent and RV camping with picnic tables, fire pits, and restroom facilities.

Namakanipaio Campground is located at 4,000 feet elevation on the southwestern rim of Kilauea Caldera. It offers camping amongst a forest of native ohia trees with views looking down into the caldera. There are 10 first-come, first-served tent sites.

Kulanaokuaiki Campground sits on the Hilina Pali road, just minutes from the active lava flows. This secluded campground has 5 tent sites and is also first-come, first-served. Be aware that this area can get quite windy.

Backcountry camping is also allowed in Volcanoes National Park with a free permit. There are designated campsites along the Crater Rim Trail, Mauna Loa Trail, and remote coastal areas. Backpacking gives you access to remote, untouched areas of the park.

When to Visit Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park enjoys mild weather all year, making it ideal for camping. Average temperatures range from 46°F in winter to 81°F in summer. Elevations span from sea level to over 13,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates. The highest chance of rain is November-March.

Peak visitation is during the summer and around holidays. For more solitude, plan your camping trip during the spring and fall. Be aware that weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations, so pack layers.

Must-Do Activities While Camping in Volcanoes National Park

Hiking Through Lava Tubes
Nāhuku, also known as the Thurston Lava Tube, is a prime example of a lava tube created by an ancient lava flow. You can take a short, paved walk through the impressive 500-year old lava cave. For a more rugged experience, hike out to the Kaumana Lava Tubes-a series of wild, undeveloped lava tubes to explore.

Seeing Kīlauea Caldera After Dark
Visit the overlook at the Jaggar Museum after sunset and you might be lucky enough to witness the dramatic glow of Halemaʻumaʻu Crater rising up from the depths of Kīlauea Caldera. This collapsed lava lake explodes into light, giving visitors a glimpse of Pele, the Hawaiian volcano goddess.

Hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail
Kīlauea Iki Trail traverses the crater left behind after the 1959 eruption of Kīlauea Iki. Walk across the crater floor past steaming vents to see how plant life has returned to what was once a sea of molten lava. It’s an easy 4-mile loop hike with fascinating volcanic scenery.

Driving the Chain of Craters Road
This 19-mile road descends 3,700 feet towards the coast, passing many craters and lava flows along the way. Stop at the overlooks for scenic vistas of the lava entering the sea. During eruptions, portions of the road can be covered with fresh flows.

Stargazing from Mauna Loa
At 13,697 feet, Mauna Loa is one of the best places in Hawaii for astronomical observing. The combination of high elevation, clear skies, and lack of light pollution creates prime night sky viewing. Bring a telescope if you have one!

Essential Information for Visiting Volcanoes National Park

Entrance Fees
Private vehicles are $30 and individual hikers/bikers are $15. Interagency annual passes are accepted.

Camping Fees
Frontcountry campsites are $15 per night. Backcountry camping requires a free permit.

Cell Service & WiFi
Cell service and wifi is extremely limited in the park. Expect to be off-the-grid while camping. Download maps ahead of time.

Dining
There are snack bars at the Volcano House and Namakanipaio Campground store. The closest full-service restaurants are in the town of Volcano, just outside the park. Bring food to cook at your campsite.

Gas Stations
Fill up your tank before entering the park. There is no gas available inside Volcanoes National Park.

Grocery Stores
Pick up any last-minute camping supplies at Cooper Center Volcano Store just a few miles from the park entrance.

Safety Tips When Visiting Volcanoes National Park

– Check current lava conditions and closures at the visitor center before hiking or driving to flow sites. Approach flows ONLY in designated areas.
– Always stay on marked trails and away from cliff edges, steam vents, and hazardous ground. Ground can be extremely fragile over lava tubes and caves.
– Be prepared for intense sun, heat, humidity, and tropical storms with layers, sun protection, and plenty of drinking water.
– Watch out for giant craters, cracks, and fissures which can emit harmful volcanic gases when exploring lava fields and old flows.
– Heed warning signs and barricades. Don’t cross safety boundaries without authorization.

Packing List for Camping in Volcanoes National Park

Camping Essentials: Tent, sleeping bags, camping stove, lanterns, headlamps, camp chairs, toilet paper
Clothing/Outerwear: Lightweight pants, long sleeve shirts, fleece, rain jacket, extra socks
Hiking Gear: Sturdy shoes/boots, daypack, hiking poles, binoculars
Safety: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, first aid kit, multi-tool, insect repellent
Food/Water: Reusable water bottles, water filter/treatment, non-perishable snacks, camping meals
Miscellaneous: Cash (for store), phone charger, towel, camera, stargazing app

Have an Amazing Camping Adventure in Volcanoes National Park!

With rugged volcanic landscapes, excellent hiking trails, fascinating geologic formations, and the chance to witness lava flows after dark, Volcanoes National Park is a magical place to pitch your tent. Follow this guide to enjoy an unforgettable camping trip surrounded by the incredible forces of Hawaiian volcanoes. From witnessing a lava lake glow to stargazing from 13,000 feet, Volcanoes National Park will give you memories to last a lifetime. I sincerely hope you find this “Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii- Your Complete guide for camping” article helpful.

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