Author: Marc Acton

Long before interstates stitched the country together, Indigenous Peoples walked, hunted, rode, and migrated across the continent. If you’ve ever felt the pulse of deep traditions beneath your tires, you already know there’s something deeper out there waiting to be discovered. Fact is, the open road has always been a gateway to old stories. And when you RV to destinations that honor Indigenous Peoples, it offers powerful opportunities to explore the cultures that have shaped this continent for millennia.

Here are some of the best places to RV if you’re looking explore the incredible culture of Indigenous Peoples in the United States.

8 RV Trips into the History and Heritage of Indigenous Peoples 

Taos Pueblo – Taos, New Mexico

Few places in America feel as timeless as Taos Pueblo. Continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years, this settlement is a living testament to the resilience of the Taos people.

Visitors can join tribal members on guided tours, walk the village, and buy handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and textiles directly from local artists. Time your visit around San Geronimo Feast Day in late September. It’s an unforgettable celebration of Native tradition blended with Catholic influence — an echo of the complex history here.

Just outside town, park your rig at Taos Valley RV Park & Campground. The RV park provides easy access to both culture and the soaring Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Standing Rock Reservation – North and South Dakota

Straddling two states and stretching along the Missouri River, the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation is a sacred place — historically, spiritually, and politically. It made national headlines in 2016 for the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, but its importance runs deeper than the headlines.

The Sitting Bull Visitor Center in Fort Yates offers a deep dive into Lakota and Dakota heritage. The history here includes the life and legacy of Sitting Bull, one of history’s most revered Indigenous leaders.

Park nearby at Prairie Knights Marina & Campground. The campground offers scenic views of Lake Oahe and access to cultural events when available.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park – New Mexico

This isn’t just a national park. It’s a sacred center of ancestral Puebloan civilization. Between 850 and 1250 AD, Chaco Canyon was a ceremonial and economic hub, home to vast, multistory stone buildings that still stand in silent grandeur.

Walking through Pueblo Bonito or climbing up to ancient petroglyphs is more than a hike. It’s an experience of reverence. Though there are no tribes that currently live in the canyon, Chaco remains a pilgrimage site for many modern Pueblo peoples. So, visiting respectfully is a must.

RVers can stay right in the park at Gallo Campground. It’s a rugged, off-grid experience beneath some of the darkest skies in the hemisphere.

Window Rock – Navajo Nation, Arizona

As the capital of the Navajo Nation, Window Rock is both a cultural and governmental center. The natural sandstone arch known as Window Rock itself is a sacred site. Nearby, monuments honor Navajo Code Talkers whose unbreakable language helped win World War II.

Visit the Navajo Nation Museum and Veterans Memorial Park. Then you’ll wan to explore the surrounding high desert, where Diné culture is woven into the land and sky. You’ll also find traditional arts, weaving, and food (try some fresh fry bread from a roadside stand) that offers a taste of Navajo life.

Set up your rig at USA RV Park in Gallup, New mexico. It is just a short drive away, and it maintains full hookups, plus close access to nearby cultural festivals and artisan markets.

Acoma Sky City – New Mexico

Acoma Pueblo, or “Sky City,” is perched on a 367-foot sandstone mesa. The site is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the U.S. The stark beauty of the landscape is matched only by the strength of the Acoma people, who have called this place home for over a thousand years.

Take a guided tour to explore the historic village, sacred sites, and traditional adobe homes. Photography is tightly restricted, but the experience will stay etched in your memory long after you leave.

Stay nearby at Sky City RV Park. There, you can soak in the red-rock vistas before and after your visit to the top.

Neah Bay – Makah Reservation, Washington

Tucked into the far northwest corner of the contiguous U.S., Neah Bay is home to the Makah Tribe and a perfect blend of coastal wilderness and cultural richness.

The Makah Cultural & Research Center is one of the finest tribal museums in the country, housing artifacts from the Ozette dig — an entire 500-year-old village uncovered by a mudslide and preserved in stunning detail. After the museum, walk the Cape Flattery Trail for views of sea stacks and maybe even whales.

Stay nearby at Hobuck Beach Resort, which offers RV sites steps away from the Pacific Ocean and within reach of cultural events and local seafood.

Phoenix, Arizona – Heard Museum

While not a reservation, the Heard Museum in Phoenix is one of the most renowned centers for American Indian art and history. Its exhibits span centuries and highlight the work of contemporary Native artists that align with deep cultural narratives.

If you’re going on an RV road trip through the Southwest, this is a must-stop for understanding the broader story of Indigenous Peoples in the U.S. 

Hook up your RV at Desert’s Edge RV Park and spend a few days exploring both the Heard and nearby tribal lands.

Red Cliff and Bad River Reservations – Wisconsin

The Anishinaabe people — Ojibwe, in particular — have deep roots in the Great Lakes region. On the south shore of Lake Superior, the Red Cliff and Bad River reservations are part of that living history.

Visit the Red Cliff Cultural Center, attend seasonal powwows, or take part in workshops. The latter teach traditional birch bark canoe making and wild rice harvesting. This area offers a peaceful, nature-rich counterpoint to the desert settings of many Indigenous landmarks.

Stay at Apostle Islands Area Campground to access both Red Cliff and the stunning Apostle Islands, where Native traditions and nature coexist in harmony.

Respect, Not Just Tourism

Wherever you RV to these destination, remember that visiting communities of Indigenous Peoples and their cultural sites requires more than a camera and curiosity. Bring respect. Ask permission. Support local artists and businesses. And always tread lightly — both physically and spiritually. The stories you’ll find carved into this land weren’t written by settlers or surveyors. They’ve been sung, spoken, and lived for thousands of years. So, when you visit these places with open eyes and an open heart, you don’t just learn history. You honor it.

For a lot of road warriors, camping is about roughing it. You know, smoky fire pits, dusty boots, and maybe a shower if you are lucky. But for those who love the outdoors without sacrificing creature comforts, glamping is camping’s better-smelling cousin. Equal parts luxury and adventure, glamping fuses the best parts of nature with amenities you’d expect from high-end resorts. Across the United States, you can find all sorts of glorious glamping sites — from tricked-out tents to safari-style suites to treehouses that look like they came from the pages of a design magazine.

So, let’s go ahead and get specific already! Here are some of the most glamorous glamping sites in the grooviest of groves and glades.

Under Canvas – Moab, Utah

When people think of Utah, red rock arches and vast desert expanses come to mind. Under Canvas Moab puts you right in the middle of it all. Just minutes from Arches National Park, this resort offers safari-inspired canvas tents that come with king-size beds, wood-burning stoves, and ensuite bathrooms. Some units even have private decks perfect for desert stargazing. The site balances rugged adventure with luxury touches like daily housekeeping and organic bath products. It’s hard not to feel spoiled when you’re sipping coffee while the sunrise light bounces off those famous red cliffs.

AutoCamp – Yosemite, California

AutoCamp has carved a shiny name for itself by turning Airstream trailers into boutique hotel suites. Their Yosemite glamping sites are  jaw-droppers, with fully outfitted Airstreams featuring spa-inspired bathrooms, private fire pits, and don’t worry — only the finest mattresses. They also offer luxury tents and accessible suites, giving you options no matter your style. The Clubhouse at AutoCamp is an architectural gem, with mid-century modern design, a lounge-worthy fireplace, and a curated general store. Guests can spend their days exploring Yosemite Valley and their evenings tucked into the famous five-star Airstream comfort.

Dunton River Camp – Colorado

Once a 19th-century cattle ranch, Dunton River Camp in the San Juan Mountains is now one of the most exclusive glamping destinations in the country. Guests stay in safari-style tents with king-size beds, gas stoves, and oversized soaking tubs. Each tent has a private deck with views of the surrounding peaks or the flowing Dolores River. The experience is all-inclusive, so meals are farm-to-table affairs paired with fine wines. With fly-fishing, hiking, and horseback riding right outside your tent flap, it’s the perfect blend of wilderness and indulgence.

Collective Retreats – Governors Island, New York

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to camp with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop, I have good news for you. Collective Retreats on Governors Island will scratch your itch. A short ferry ride from the greatest city in the world, these glamping sites feel worlds away from the city but keep the perks close. Guests get luxury tents with chandeliers, high-thread-count linens, and spa-quality bathrooms. At night, the glow of Lady Liberty warms the scene, and you can dine al fresco with chef-prepared meals. It’s camping with a shiny, Big Apple twist—big, bold, and undeniably chic.

Ventana Big Sur – California

Perched just off the Pacific Coast Highway, high above the rugged cliffs of the Pacific, Ventana Big Sur is a famous crown jewel for travelers seeking tranquility with a view. But their glamping experience is otherwordly. Guests stay in spacious safari tents with heated blankets, plush beds, and access to outrageous amenities like Japanese hot baths, guided meditation classes, or their infinity pool. Which overlooks the ocean, naturally. It’s a place where the word “camping” barely scratches the surface of what’s offered.

The Resort at Paws Up – Montana

Set on a 37,000-acre ranch, The Resort at Paws Up might be the most famous glamping destination in the U.S. — and for good reason. The property offers six different luxury camps, each with its own theme and location, from riverfront spots to secluded meadows. Tents are spacious enough to rival hotel suites, with ensuite bathrooms, heated floors, and what might be described as butler service. Yes, you read that right: butlers who light your campfire and bring you fresh coffee in the morning. The activities are just as indulgent, ranging from cattle drives to hot air balloon rides.

Firelight Camps – Ithaca, New York

For those who want a splash of glamour with their campfire s’mores, Firelight Camps in Ithaca delivers. Founded by outdoor enthusiasts Emma Frisch and Bobby Frisch (yes, that’s celebrity chef Emma Frisch), this property blends artisanal flair with natural charm. Safari tents come with hardwood floors, plush beds, and private balconies that look out into the forest. The on-site bar serves craft cocktails, and yoga sessions on the lawn set the tone for the day. Add in hiking access to Buttermilk Falls State Park, and it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The Ranch at Rock Creek – Montana

For the ultimate splurge, The Ranch at Rock Creek combines five-star luxury with the heart of Big Sky Country. A Relais & Châteaux property, it offers glamping cabins and canvas tents outfitted with gas fireplaces, well-placed antiques, and clawfoot tubs. The experience is all-inclusive, covering gourmet meals, guided adventures, and even nightly entertainment in the on-site saloon. If glamping had a platinum tier, this would be it.

El Cosmico – Marfa, Texas

Marfa has long been a haven for artists, wanderers, and dreamers, and El Cosmico fits right into that vibe. Guests can choose from vintage trailers, yurts, safari tents, and even teepees, all decorated with a bohemian flair. While it leans more eclectic than ultra-luxury, the creativity and style put it in a league of its own. Outdoor kitchens and plentiful hammocks and comfort, but the desert skies provide the real show. It’s a different kind of lavish — less about chandeliers and more about soul.

Tailgating has its own kind of magic. It sparkles every time you fire up the grill in a parking lot, or crack open a cold beverage in a stadium shadow. For RVers, it’s an even bigger deal because your rig becomes the glorious hub of food, friends, and fandom. And while every college football stadium has its traditions, there are a few places where the tailgate isn’t just a pregame activity. At the best college football stadiums, tailgating is a uniquely American, uniquely enjoyable experience.

Which ones are the best? Like everything else in college football, that’s controversial. But let’s be bold! Here are our picks for the best college football stadiums for tailgating for each Power 4 conference — plus one independent spot that can only be called a near-religious experience and a Big 12 transfer now in SEC country.

SEC: Tiger Stadium, LSU

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

If tailgating had a Hall of Fame, LSU and its Parade Grounds would be first-ballot. Known as “Death Valley” (like another stadium on this list), Tiger Stadium comes alive hours — sometimes days — before kickoff. You’ll find RVs (not on the Parade Grounds themselves, but in dedicated parking lots) with canopies stretched wide, smokers going at dawn, and Cajun cooking that rivals any restaurant in the state. Gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée — this is tailgating as a culinary art form.

Best of all, LSU fans are famous for sharing plates and stories with visitors. So if you’re rolling in on game day, don’t be shy about stopping by a rig and asking what’s cooking. The energy only builds as day turns to night, and a Saturday night game in Baton Rouge is one of the loudest, rowdiest, most unforgettable experiences in all of sports.

Big Ten: Camp Randall Stadium, Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin

The Badgers know how to throw down on a Saturday. Camp Randall sits in the middle of Madison, where the stadium, lakes, and downtown scene all connect to form one big pre-game block party. RVers will love the setup because it’s less about a single lot and more about tailgating spilling into every corner of the city. Expect brats sizzling on the grill and cheese curds as far as the eye can see. (I’ll never understand: WHY do they squeak when you bite into them). And did I mention coolers full of local Wisconsin brews?

The welcoming community atmosphere is also part of the charm. Neighbors invite strangers over, and it doesn’t take long before you’re part of the pack. Stick around after the game for “Jump Around,” one of the best traditions in college football, and you’ll feel like the tailgate never really ended.

Big 12: Bill Snyder Family Stadium, Kansas State

Manhatten, Kansas

The last few decades of conference realignment — in all its weirdness — must have geography teachers everywhere pulling their hair out. California in the Atlantic Coast Conference? Yeah, that’s a thing. Another result has been that all the Big 12’s biggest stadiums have swapped conferences. Texas, Oklahoma, and Texas A&M are in the SEC now. Nebraska is in the Big Ten. So, you might wonder what’s the best of what’s left.

If you’re asking that question, you haven’t tailgated at Kansas State. Sure, the venue is smaller, but the taste is just as big. Kansas-City-style barbecue? Yes, please. Even better, the scene is RV-friendly. Just be conscious to consider your RV’s size when you reserve a spot.. Parking for motorhome and towables is limited to designated reserved parking stalls in the east and west stadium lots, and there’s a maximum stall width of 11-feet, 6-inches and a maximum stall length of 55-feet.

ACC: Memorial Stadium, Clemson

Clemson, South Carolina

There’s something special about tailgating in a small town that revolves around football. Clemson transforms on Saturdays, with the entire community turning into one giant, orange-clad tailgate. RVers line up early. The scene quickly fills full of tents, grills, and slow cookers churning out bubbling Carolina barbecue. But what really makes Clemson’s tailgating legendary is the spirit. Fans are welcoming. Food is shared freely. And the vibe is more like a raucous reunion than a rowdy crowd.

The tailgate stretches across campus, with balls tossed on Bowman Field, families picnicking, and the Tiger Band echoing through the air. And when it’s finally time to head into “Death Valley” (yet another one), the famous tradition of the team running down the hill only adds to the sense that this is more than a game — it’s a Southern celebration of community.

Independent: Notre Dame Stadium, Notre Dame

South Bend, Indiana

Notre Dame’s tailgating scene has its own flavor. Tradition is the heartbeat here, and the pregame feels like a pilgrimage. RVs line the parking lots around campus, and grills fire up with everything from Midwest staples to Irish-inspired dishes. Families set up long tables covered with food, cornhole boards get constant use, and the entire campus hums with anticipation. But what sets Notre Dame apart is the way football weaves into the traditions of the university. The marching band parade, the player walk, the stop at the Grotto — all of these rituals flow right alongside the tailgate.

For RVers, it’s the perfect mix of sports and campus culture. You’ll leave with your stomach full and your heart convinced you’ve been part of something bigger than just a game. And, on top of everything else? It’s right by Elkhart, Indiana — the center of the RV universe.

Bonus (Because Conference Realignment Is Weird)

Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Oklahoma

Norman, Oklahoma

In Norman, the tailgate is as much about pride as it is about the spread. Sooner fans are generational — grandparents, parents, and kids all gathering together to pass down traditions with a plate of smoked brisket in one hand and a crimson flag in the other. The smell of barbecue fills the air from dawn till kickoff, and RVers will appreciate how welcoming the lots are for setting up big spreads. Campus Corner, a few blocks from the stadium, transforms into a street party packed shoulder-to-shoulder with fans, food, and fun.

Whether you’re parked in a lot or walking the strip, you’ll find yourself surrounded by that Oklahoma brand of hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve been part of the family all along.

The Common Thread

Whether it’s LSU’s Cajun cookouts, Wisconsin’s brats and beer, Oklahoma’s barbecue spreads, Clemson’s small-town hospitality, or Notre Dame’s tradition-filled rituals, the common thread is this: tailgating is about more than food and drink. It’s about community. For RVers, that sense of community is already built into the lifestyle. You roll up, set up, and suddenly you’re part of a bigger story — sharing laughs, swapping food, and building traditions that last long after the game clock hits zero.

So next time you’re planning a fall road trip, think about routing your rig through one of these legendary tailgating towns. (After all, some of these teams are major players on rivalry weekend.) Bring the grill, bring the flags, bring your appetite. And come ready for one of the most uniquely American experiences there is. Because in college football, the tailgate is just as important as the touchdown.

When it’s time to round up the cousins, coozies, and lawn game legends for a full-blown family reunion, there’s no better home away from home base than an RV park. These destinations can accommodate rigs of all sizes. They give the kids plenty of room (and reason) to roam. And they keep everyone close — without crowding each other. The best part: You can pick a location that turns your get-together into a full-on family funfest.

We’ve rounded up six of the best RV parks across the country that go all-in on space, amenities, and reunion-ready vibes to make your next family gathering one for the scrapbooks.

Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Ocean Lakes isn’t just one of the biggest RV parks on the East Coast — it’s one of the best spots in the country to host a family reunion. This beachfront campground covers 310 oceanfront acres with almost 900 campsites. This massive RV Park has room for everyone from tent campers to Class As.

With easy beach access, golf cart rentals, indoor and outdoor pools, a full water park, mini golf, and a massive recreation center, you’ll have no trouble keeping every age group actively engaged. Their onsite event spaces are ideal for potlucks, talent shows, or family game nights.

What Makes It Great: The blend of oceanfront scenery and the onslaught of activities means the fun literally never has to stop.

Jellystone Park Camp-Resort – Larkspur, Colorado

This one’s tailor-made for families. Jellystone Parks are known for their kid-first approach. And the Larkspur location pulls out all the stops. Nestled between Denver and Colorado Springs, it gives you big mountain views and small-town charm all in one spot.

The park has cabins, tent sites, and full-hookup RV sites. (Plus, there’s a family reunion pavilion you can reserve for group meals or celebrations.) Activities include a splash pad, laser tag, jumping pillows, and Yogi Bear-themed events. That’s just the kind of stuff that’ll have the little ones talking about it for months.

What Makes It Great: Themed fun, family-centered events, and plenty of group spaces make this one a reunion slam dunk.

Lake George RV Park – Lake George, New York

Upstate New York may not be the first place you think of for a family reunion, but this park will change your mind. Lake George RV Park is perfectly set up for family gatherings. The park offers 120 acres packed with hiking and biking trails, indoor and outdoor pools, and sports courts. There’s even a family-owned playhouse that hosts live performances.

They’ve got large sites with full hookups. Trolley service can ferry you to local attractions. And there’s enough activities for every branch of the family tree — from the hammock-lounging uncles to the speed-demon kids on scooters.

What Makes It Great: Tons of amenities meet classic campground charm in a setting that’s peaceful, scenic, and central to Northeastern families.

Sun Outdoors Sarasota – Sarasota, Florida

If you’re not afraid of the long haul down the Gulf Coast’s I-75, Sun Outdoors Sarasota is a hot choice for family events. This resort-style RV park has everything: an enormous pool complex, mini golf, pickleball courts, and an on-site bar and bistro. And, in case you want to get your sweat on between Uncle Bob’s stories, there’s a wellness center. They also offer vacation rentals for family members without their own rigs. Plus, they have dedicated event spaces perfect for family dinners.

What Makes It Great: It’s just a short drive to Siesta Key’s white sand beaches, giving your family the option to mix in some classic Florida beach days with all the fun back at camp.

Zion River Resort – Virgin, Utah

Looking for a reunion that’s a little more jaw-dropping? Zion River Resort puts your family just minutes from Zion National Park and offers top-tier amenities in an out-of-this-world location that’ll help you knock your reunion out of the park. Full-hookup sites, a community fire pit, a playground, pool, and group meeting areas make it perfect for groups.

The nearby hikes and views are unforgettable, and the resort’s concierge team can help you plan everything from guided tours to shuttle service, making it easy to organize group outings. Did I even mention stargazing by the river? Altogether, it’s not a bad way to reconnect with those cousins you haven’t seen in a while.

What Makes It Great: Proximity to a national park means this reunion doubles as a bucket-list trip.

The Vineyards Campground & Cabins – Grapevine, Texas

Tucked into the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, The Vineyards feels miles away from the city while still being super accessible for far-flung family members. Located right on the shore of Grapevine Lake, the campground has everything from spacious RV sites to cozy cabins for those who aren’t bringing a rig.

You’ll find kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing docks, hiking trails, and an event pavilion that can be reserved for your group. It’s a great mix of laid-back lakeside living and easy logistics.

What Makes It Great: Easy to get to, but feels like a vacation once you’re there — ideal for big, spread-out families.

3 Tips for a Next-Level RV Family Reunion

1. Book group sites and extras early. The best parks fill up fast—especially during summer. So, don’t stop at picking your location. Reserve any shared-use facilities like pavilions or rec halls. Many parks will work with you directly on group bookings. They might even offer discounts for big parties.
2. Create a reunion HQ site. Designate one RV as the “mobile home base” for the reunion. (Ideally, it’d be a centrally located rig with a big awning and outdoor setup.) This becomes the drop-in spot for coffee chats, water breaks, and hanging out between planned activities.
3. Keep meals simple and shared. Organize potluck-style dinners or assign each nuclear family a night to handle dinner. Bring slow cookers, griddles, or portable smokers to make cooking easy. And don’t forget to set up a “snack central” table — because no one wants to be hangry on reunion weekend.

Think budget camping is a thing of the past? Not so fast. While it’s true that many RV parks these days feel like you’re booking a luxury suite on wheels, there’s a whole world of ultra-budget campsites out there that can still get you under the stars for next to nothing. (Shhh … and some of these budget campsites are so budget that they’re even free.) These aren’t just gravel lots next to gas stations either. We’re talking scenic views, peaceful settings, and the kind of solitude that made you fall in love with RV life in the first place.

So, if you wanna experience some spectacular travel on a budget, let’s take a look at some of the most affordable campsites in the country. These low-cost (or no-cost) spots offer all the beauty, adventure, and comfort you want without breaking the bank.

1. Saddle Mountain Dispersed Camping – Tonopah, Arizona

Cost: Free

Saddle Mountain is a boondocker’s dream, offering wide-open spaces and striking desert views just about an hour west of Phoenix. Set on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, this area gives self-contained RVers the opportunity to stay for free on public land with near-total privacy. The terrain is a mix of desert brush and rocky ridges, and it’s not uncommon to spot the odd desert fox sniffing around. And you’re sure to catch an epic Arizona sunset. You won’t find amenities here, so come fully stocked with water and your own power solution — but if you’re set up for dry camping, this is the desert oasis you’ve been looking for.

Why it’s great: Free camping with mountain views, epic skies, and room to spread out.

2. Magnolia Beach – Port Lavaca, Texas

Cost: Free (3–14 day limit)

Yes, you read that right — beach camping for free! Magnolia Beach is nestled on the shores of Lavaca Bay along the Gulf Coast and offers hard-packed sand that’s easy for RVs to park on. Camping is permitted right along the water, and although there are no hookups, the county provides public restrooms nearby. (If you need a hookup — and you have some budget for it — Magnolia Beach RV Park can hook you up.) Locals and seasoned road warriors love this place for its calm vibe, warm breezes, and small-town Texas charm. It’s perfect for fishing, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing with your toes in the sand. Sunrises here are hard to beat, and you’ll often share the beach with dolphins just offshore.

Why it’s great: It’s beachfront, beautiful, and costs absolutely nothing.

3. Lake Meredith National Recreation Area – Fritch, Texas

Cost: Free at designated campgrounds

Operated by the National Park Service, Lake Meredith offers several designated free camping areas around a sparkling lake set in the high plains of the Texas Panhandle. Sanford-Yake and Harbor Bay are two of the most accessible options for RVs, with pit toilets and picnic tables included. The area is known for its excellent fishing, hiking trails, and open skies, and while it can get breezy, that’s part of its rugged charm. It’s also a great stopover if you’re heading east or west across the state and want a break from the usual truck stop routine.

Why it’s great: Lakefront camping with all the serenity and none of the fees.

4. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park – Millington, Tennessee

Cost: $10–$13 (tent sites), $20–$27 (RV sites)

Nestled in the woods just north of Memphis, Meeman-Shelby Forest offers some of the most affordable developed campsites in the region. This state park spans over 13,000 acres and features two lakes, multiple hiking trails, and a dense forest that feels miles away from civilization. For anyone on a budget, these RV campsites come with electrical hookups, and the bathhouses are clean and well-maintained. There’s also a small lake with a swimming beach and canoe rentals, making this park ideal for family-friendly camping on a budget. And when you’re ready to switch gears, Memphis barbecue and live music are just a short drive away.

Why it’s great: Forested solitude with big-city access—at a fraction of the usual cost.

5. Buckhorn Draw Campground – Green River, Utah

Cost: $15/night

This BLM-managed campground is tucked deep in the San Rafael Swell and surrounded by massive sandstone cliffs and otherworldly desert scenery. The eight-site campground offers fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, but you’ll need to pack in your own water. The nearby Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel is a must-see, and the area is rich with OHV trails, slot canyons, and peaceful desert hikes. It’s off the beaten path, but that’s what makes it so magical—and for eight bucks a night, the views alone are worth the drive.

Why it’s great: Budget-friendly basecamp for exploring one of Utah’s best-kept secrets.

6. Black Canyon Rim Campground – Heber, Arizona

Cost: $20/night

If you’re looking for cooler weather and a break from the desert heat, the Mogollon Rim has what you need. This pine-forested campground near Heber-Overgaard sits at about 7,500 feet elevation and offers a dozen first-come, first-served sites that feel peaceful and tucked away. It’s dry camping, but the air smells like pine needles and campfire smoke, and the towering trees offer ample shade and shelter. Hiking trails lead right from the campground into the surrounding forest, and at $20 a night, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better bargain in Arizona’s high country.

Why it’s great: Piney solitude, high elevation, and perfect temps — all on the cheap.

7. O’Leno State Park – High Springs, Florida

Cost: $5–$18 depending on campsite type

O’Leno State Park is one of Florida’s oldest state parks and still holds onto its timeless charm. Located along the Santa Fe River, this park has both developed and primitive sites, with primitive tent camping available for as little as $5. RVers will find spots with electric and water hookups that rarely break the $20 mark. The park offers hiking, swimming, and paddling opportunities, along with a swinging suspension bridge and historic CCC-era structures. Wildlife is abundant, and Spanish moss-draped trees give the whole place a dreamy, old-Florida vibe.

Why it’s great: Affordable access to Florida’s natural beauty without the usual crowd.

8. Liberty Harbor RV Park – Jersey City, New Jersey

Cost: $75 tent sites, RV starts at $165 — BUT there’s a trick

OK, this one bends the rules a bit, but hear me out … Liberty Harbor RV Park is the closest campground to New York City (a not-so-RV-friendly city). And while RV sites here are pricey, the park offers tent sites for as low as $75 a night. (Cheap in NYC is relative, right?) If you’re traveling in a campervan or car with rooftop tent, you may qualify for the tent pricing — especially if you’re OK skipping hookups. The park has showers, security, and ferry access to Manhattan just two blocks away. For urban campers who want the ultimate budget city adventure, it’s the deal of a lifetime.

Why it’s great: NYC access without the NYC price tag (if you play it smart).

9. River Park South Campground – Cottonwood, Idaho

Cost: $20–25/day

Run by the city of Cottonwood, this riverside park is quiet, cozy, and often completely empty. There’s a restroom, a few shaded picnic tables, and room for a handful of RVs or tents. The city asks only for a $5 donation to help with upkeep. The setting is rural and relaxing, with the sound of the babbling creek nearby and the friendly town just a mile or two up the road. It’s a great example of small-town generosity — and the kind of place you only find when you’re taking the backroads.

Why it’s great: Small-town charm, restful setting.

10. Deadman’s Basin Fishing Access Site – Shawmut, Montana

Cost: Free (7-day limit)

Montana is full of fishing access sites that double as primitive camping areas, and Deadman’s Basin is a hidden favorite. Located along a large reservoir in central Montana, this spot has open spaces for RVs and tents alike, and allows up to seven nights of free camping. The area is remote and quiet, ideal for fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the wide-open sky. Bring everything you need — there are no services — but you’ll be rewarded with peaceful solitude and those classic Big Sky views.

Why it’s great: Free, wide-open camping with some of the best stargazing in the country.

Bonus Recommendation for Budget Campsites

If you’re not afraid of the occasional boondocking, I’m a long-time fan of Harvest Hosts. For one annual fee, they deliver unlimited stays at wineries, farms, breweries, and even the occasional alpaca farm. It’s an ultra-budget-conscious option for campsites across the country.