Mountain camping is an exhilarating way to explore some of the most scenic and remote areas in North America. It combines the thrill of hiking, breathtaking views, and the challenge of adapting to high-altitude environments. Below is a detailed guide to some of the best mountain camping adventures, including their unique features and what makes them special.
1. Uncompahgre Peak – Ridgway State Park, Colorado
Uncompahgre Peak is one of Colorado’s famous “14ers” (peaks over 14,000 feet). This mountain offers a relatively approachable climb for experienced hikers. The trail spans 7.5 miles one way (15 miles round trip) with a gradual ascent through scree-covered terrain in the Sneffels Range.
Camping Options: Stay at Ridgway State Park in tents, RVs, or yurts.
Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall mornings are ideal for summiting due to afternoon thunderstorms.
Highlights: After your hike, relax on sandy beaches near your campsite.
2. Mount Hood – Milo McIver State Park, Oregon
Mount Hood is Oregon’s highest peak at 11,240 feet and an active volcano that last erupted centuries ago. Its trails offer year-round exploration opportunities.
Camping Options: Low-elevation tent and RV sites along the Clackamas River.
Seasonal Features: Hike through mossy rainforests and waterfalls year-round or enjoy alpine wildflowers from July to October.
Unique Aspect: Steam vents remind visitors of its volcanic nature.
3. Mount Lafayette – White Lake State Park, New Hampshire
Located in New Hampshire’s Franconia Range, Mount Lafayette offers challenging hikes with stunning views.
Trail Details: A climb of over 3,000 feet leads to its exposed summit; extend your hike across Mount Lincoln and Little Haystack for an 8.9-mile loop.
Camping Options: Tent or RV sites by a glacial lake.
Notable Stop: Greenleaf Hut (a historic hiker lodge) near Eagle Lake.
4. Pole Mountain – Curt Gowdy State Park, Wyoming
Pole Mountain provides a beginner-to-intermediate hiking experience with open meadows filled with sagebrush and aspen trees.
Elevation Gain: From 7,000 feet above sea level at the park to a summit height of 9,040 feet.
Camping Options: Tent or RV campsites; glamping available at Hynds Lodge.
Activities Nearby: Boating and fishing for rainbow trout on three reservoirs within the park.
5. Holland Peak – Salmon Lake State Park, Montana
Holland Peak offers a strenuous yet rewarding hike with panoramic views across Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Trail Features: Creeks, waterfalls, hanging glacial valleys, and massive rock walls line the path.
Summit Views: Treeless vistas of both Swan and Mission mountain ranges await climbers at 9,356 feet elevation.
Camping Options: Overnight camping in Seeley-Swan Valley.
6. Mount Mitchell – Mount Mitchell State Park, North Carolina
Mount Mitchell stands as the highest peak east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet.
Trail Characteristics: Strenuous climbs through spruce-fir forests lead to cloud-draped valleys below.
Camping Options: Primitive tent sites accessible only via backpacking treks.
Weather Considerations: Prepare for extreme conditions resembling Canadian climates despite being in North Carolina.
7. Whitetop Mountain – Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia
Whitetop Mountain offers family-friendly trekking opportunities with scenic Appalachian views.
Peak Elevation: At 5,520 feet atop one of Virginia’s highest peaks.
Camping Options: Tent/RV sites or yurts within Grayson Highlands State Park.
Bonus Activity: Side hikes on the Appalachian Trail include encounters with wild ponies roaming high-elevation meadows.
8. Mount Marcy – Moreau Lake State Park, New York
Mount Marcy is the tallest peak in New York’s Adirondacks at 5,344 feet above sea level.
Trail Details: A strenuous 7.4-mile climb gains over 3,000 feet in elevation before reaching massive rock domes perfect for picnics.
Seasonal Notes: Crampons are necessary during winter months due to frost and snow along trails.
Camping Options: Relax lakeside back at your campsite or opt for glamping cabins equipped with wood-burning stoves and kitchens.
