The Best Places to Camp in the World: Explore Beyond the Tent
Camping is one of the most rewarding ways to connect with nature and escape the daily grind. Whether it’s waking up to stunning mountain views, listening to waves crashing against the shore, or falling asleep under a blanket of stars, camping offers unparalleled serenity and adventure. But camping is also a gateway to explore local activities, culture, and wildlife. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best camping destinations in the world, along with exciting things to do nearby to make your trip unforgettable.
Torres del Paine National Park – Chile
Why It’s Amazing:
This Patagonian treasure is a haven for nature lovers, with jagged peaks, shimmering lakes, and sprawling glaciers creating a dramatic landscape. The park’s unspoiled wilderness attracts adventurers from around the globe.
Nearby Activities:
Hiking: The W Trek is world-famous, offering close-up views of Grey Glacier, the Towers, and Valle del Francés. The O Circuit is perfect for seasoned hikers seeking solitude.
Kayaking: Paddle through the icy waters of Lago Grey for unparalleled views of the glacier.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for guanacos, Andean condors, foxes, and even the elusive puma.
Horseback Riding: Explore the grasslands and foothills with experienced local guides, adding a unique cultural element to your trip.
Best Time to Visit: October to April (Patagonia’s summer).
Camping Tip: The park has several designated campsites, including Campamento Central and Campamento Torres. Always book in advance and come prepared for unpredictable weather, as Patagonia is known for its strong winds and sudden temperature changes.
Yosemite National Park – USA
Why It’s Amazing:
Home to iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, this Californian gem is a paradise for campers, climbers, and photographers. With its towering granite cliffs and lush meadows, Yosemite offers both tranquility and adrenaline-pumping activities.
Nearby Activities:
Rock Climbing: Yosemite is a mecca for climbers, with routes for all skill levels. Experienced climbers can tackle El Capitan or Half Dome.
Hiking: Trails like Mist Trail, Mirror Lake, and the Glacier Point Trail offer unforgettable views.
Photography: Capture the grandeur of Tunnel View or the serene beauty of Mariposa Grove’s ancient sequoias.
River Rafting: Float down the Merced River during summer for a refreshing experience.
Stargazing: Yosemite’s remote location makes it ideal for stargazing. Head to Glacier Point for the clearest skies.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall.
Camping Tip: Book your site months in advance, especially at popular campgrounds like Upper Pines. Aim for quieter options like Tuolumne Meadows if you prefer fewer crowds.
Lake District – England
Why It’s Amazing:
The Lake District is a picturesque wonderland of green hills, shimmering lakes, and charming villages. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it an idyllic spot for campers of all kinds.
Nearby Activities:
Boating: Rent a rowboat or go paddleboarding on Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England.
Hiking: From gentle walks along Derwentwater to challenging ascents like Scafell Pike, the Lake District has something for everyone.
Cycling: Explore trails through Grizedale Forest or ride along scenic routes around Coniston Water.
Literary Tours: Visit the former homes of famous authors like Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth for a touch of literary history.
Local Cuisine: Indulge in traditional pub fare, like Cumberland sausage or a cream tea in the quaint villages.
Best Time to Visit: April to September.
Camping Tip: Great Langdale Campsite offers stunning views and easy access to popular trails. For a quieter experience, try Wasdale or Eskdale.
Maasai Mara – Kenya
Why It’s Amazing:
The Maasai Mara is one of the most renowned wildlife reserves in the world. Its vast savannas are teeming with life, from majestic lions and elephants to cheetahs and zebras. It’s also home to the Great Migration, one of nature’s most incredible spectacles.
Nearby Activities:
Game Drives: Embark on morning or evening safaris to spot the Big Five and countless other species.
Balloon Safari: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for breathtaking views of the plains and wildlife below.
Cultural Tours: Visit a Maasai village to learn about their traditional way of life, music, and crafts.
Nature Walks: Join guided bush walks to explore the region’s unique flora and fauna up close.
Best Time to Visit: July to October, during the Great Migration.
Camping Tip: Stay at eco-friendly campsites that contribute to local conservation efforts, such as the Mara Serena Lodge Campsite or more rustic bush camps.
Banff National Park – Canada
Why It’s Amazing:
The Canadian Rockies provide a dramatic backdrop to this incredible park, where turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and dense forests create an outdoor paradise.
Nearby Activities:
Hiking: Trails like Johnston Canyon, Plain of Six Glaciers, and Tunnel Mountain offer stunning vistas.
Canoeing: Paddle through the calm waters of Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
Wildlife Spotting: Look out for elk, bears, and mountain goats.
Hot Springs: Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs after a day of exploring.
Winter Sports: In the colder months, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort or Sunshine Village.
Best Time to Visit: June to September.
Camping Tip: Two Jack Lakeside Campground is a favorite for its serene location by the lake. Remember to follow bear safety precautions.
Final Thoughts
Camping is about more than just spending nights under the stars—it’s about immersing yourself in the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and connecting with the rich culture and activities around you. From kayaking through glaciers in Patagonia to photographing wildlife in Kenya or stargazing in Yosemite, these destinations promise adventures that will leave you inspired.
No matter where you go, let each camping trip be a new chapter in your endless expedition. Pack your gear, embrace the wild, and let the adventure begin!
Have a favorite camping spot or adventure to share? Drop your stories in the comments below and inspire others to embark on their own journey!