With National Parks like Yellowstone and Acadia usually getting all the glory, it can be easy to overlook the incredible outdoors of America’s south.
Here are our picks of places to camp in each and every state in the South.
One Campsite for Every State in the South
Chisos Basin, Big Bend National Park, TX
Photo from The Dyrt user Danielle D.
This first-come, first-serve site is among the most popular in the park for hikers. For a sky-high experience, check out Big Bend’s famed and easily-accessible Emory Peak (7,825 ft.).
Reviews & PhotosAlabaster Caverns State Park, OK
Photo from The Dyrt user Dusty G.
Well-kept sites nestle up to dozens of unique trails. As an added bonus, all caverns are just a short walk from your tent!
Reviews & PhotosPetit Jean State Park, AR
Photo from The Dyrt user Christy C.
An amenities-filled campground that is perfect if you are bringing along little ones. Families can enjoy plenty of waterfalls, easy hikes, large sites, and rustic cabins.
Reviews & PhotosLake Fausse Pointe State Park, LA
Photo from The Dyrt user Mike V.
An island campground that is filled with Louisiana’s most infamous reptile– the gator. Be sure to pack lightly, as the primitive sites can only be accessed by motorboat, kayak, or canoe.
Reviews & PhotosMammoth Cave National Park, KY
Photo from The Dyrt user Stephanie T.
Along with picturesque caverns, this national park boasts some of the best hiking and mountain biking in the state. If you are looking for some high-flying adventure, be sure to check out the zip line and Tarzan swing.
Reviews & PhotosCades Cove Campground, Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
Photo from The Dyrt user Annie C.
This year-round Smoky Mountains staple is best known for its impressive falls and wildlife viewing. A must for any amateur nature photographer looking to build up his or her portfolio.
Reviews & PhotosTishomingo State Park, MS
Photo from The Dyrt user Jennifer L.W
This lakeside campground sits right at the base of the Appalachian range and offers plenty of fun amenities, including a pool, playground, and disc golf course.
Reviews & PhotosMonte Sano State Park, AL
Photo from The Dyrt user Kelly W.
Offering plenty of options for serious hikers and bikers, this peaceful campground is located just minutes outside of bustling downtown Huntsville. Many sites feature breathtaking views of the park’s challenging and primitive trails.
Reviews & PhotosBlackwater Falls State Park, WV
Photo from The Dyrt user Sean G.
Aptly-named, the Blackwater Falls are literally that– flowing waterfalls that appear black due to the gorge’s high levels of tannin. This makes for an unforgettable sight; it’s no wonder that this state park is known for being the most photographed in West Virginia.
Reviews & PhotosMathews Arm, Shenandoah National Park, VA
Photo from The Dyrt user Molly G.
If the idea of seeing some wildlife gets your heart pumping, then look no further than Matthew’s Arm, the most coveted campground in all of Shenandoah National Park. Just beware of black bears, as they are known to be widely seen in the area.
Reviews & PhotosCarolina Beach State Park, NC
Photo from The Dyrt user Sarah M.
Beach-lovers looking to branch out into some good, rugged forested hikes should consider this diverse site. With the shore on one side and woods directly on the other, it’s a no-brainer for all of those seeking a complete camping experience.
Reviews & PhotosOconee Point, Hartwell Lake, SC
Photo from The Dyrt user Crystal C.
Featuring sandy beaches and still, crystal blue waters, Oconee Point campground at South Carolina’s famed Hartwell Lake offers its guests some of the most prime views and waterways of the entire park.
Reviews & PhotosSea Camp, Cumberland Island National Seashore, GA
Photo from The Dyrt user Annie C.
One of the best places in the States to spot wild horses romping about in their natural habitat. Be sure to check out the northernmost end of the island for some quieter, more rustic scenery.
Reviews & PhotosRainbow Springs State Park, FL
Photo from The Dyrt user Tracey L H.
This amenity-filled campground features gator-free springs which are perfect for a day of relaxing, swimming, or tubing.
Reviews & PhotosWin Gear for Camping in the South
When you camp in the south and review your camping experience on The Dyrt, you could win gear from CRKT, Mishmi Takin, Tentsile, Saris, Gregory Packs, and Grand Trunk. See how to write a review and how to win here.
Related Campgrounds:
- A-Okay RV Park, Dothan, AL
