New England's 5 Best Campsites
New England has never looked so good.
New England is home to some amazing outdoor destinations, and the best thing about the region is everything is packed into a relatively small area. While these are by no means the only camping options in the region, they are some of the best options within close distances to some really worthwhile spots to visit. From Maine to southern Rhode Island, New England offers an awesome mix of mountains and coastal locations to camp. I think camping is less common in New England than other parts of the country where there are more national parks, but some of my best camping trips with friends have been in the area. New England is a perfect place to camp in the summer, with warm temperatures and longer, sunny days. Fall is also a great time to bustle up and pack up for a camping trip in these places, as long as you’re prepared for the brisk nights (the foliage is worth it). The sites listed here are all easily accessible with any car, and each offers a unique camping experience full of different activity options in the areas surrounding them.
1. Dunes Edge | Massachusetts
Camping at Dunes Edge in Provincetown allows you to literally spend the night in the dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore. The area is an awesome place to escape during the summer, with crystal clear beaches and dune preserve areas to explore all within walking distance. Learn more.
2. Breachway Campground at Burlingame State Park | Rhode Island
The Breachway Campground is a great way to submerse yourself in the region that Rhode Island was given it's Ocean State nickname from. This is a place of simplicity that doesn't really offer any amenities besides a site on the sand just feet away from the water - what more could you ask for? Learn more.
3. Lafayette Campground | New Hampshire
Camping at Lafayette puts you right in the heart of Franconia Notch State Park, where you can explore the Flume Gorge, the Basin, and the famous Kancamangus Highway all in one day. Learn more.
4. Quechee State Park | Vermont
A camping trip at Quechee State Park allows you to bask in the glory of Quechee Gorge, it's bridge and beautiful stargazing opportunities at night. Learn more.
5. Blackwoods Campground | Maine
Blackwoods gives you the convenience of Acadia's biggest destinations (Cadillac Mountain, Eagle Lake, Sand Beach, Jordan Pond) within just a few mile radius. Along with the convenience, Blackwoods provides more seclusion than other campgrounds outside the park for a better, less crowded outdoors experience. Learn more.
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Remember to always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to brush up on LNT principles for backcountry fires as well.
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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