The Dyrt, the app to get the best campsites, built by the largest RVing and camping community in the U.S., has announced the 2026 Best Places to Camp With Kids Presented by Kelty, an outdoor gear brand known for creating thoughtfully designed equipment that makes it easier for families to get outside and explore together.
Memories of childhood camping trips can fuel a camper for life. Whether it was one amazing trip that will never be forgotten or an annual summertime tradition, adult campers want to provide those same memories for their own kids. And while times have changed and amenities have reclassified some campgrounds as outdoor resorts, it’s still about experiencing the great outdoors and making new memories. That being said, a lot of campgrounds pull out all the stops and make sure kids have more than enough to do, and that parents can still fit in some rest and relaxation.
Best Places to Camp With Kids recognizes the top campgrounds in the country that cater to younger campers. From playgrounds and fishing ponds to arcades and bounce houses, these campgrounds have activities for days, and provide a welcome respite for guardians to enjoy the great outdoors themselves.
Recognized multiple times in recent years by The Dyrt’s Best Places to Camp in the Northeast Region, Normandy Farms in Massachusetts is a kid camper’s dream and a true luxury camping destination. It has every amenity imaginable and then a few more that you probably didn’t think of. From an 18-hole disc golf course to multiple playgrounds and pools to a 20,000-square-foot recreation lodge, this is a tough place to tell the kids, “OK, it’s time to go home.”
Of course Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground in Florida and Jellystone Park™ Quarryville in Pennsylvania made the list, because what kid doesn’t like Mickey Mouse and Yogi Bear? Another campground that couldn’t be overlooked is Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground in Texas. Because while imagination and cartoons are great, something about stepping into actual dinosaur tracks brings a new sense of wonderment to a child’s mind.
Each of these campgrounds is highly rated by The Dyrt Community and loaded with amenities that children of all ages will enjoy. There’s also plenty for adults to do and enjoy, as many of these campgrounds are near big cities and traditional tourist destinations.
Best Places to Camp With Kids is presented by Kelty, a heritage outdoor brand focused on making camping more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. From packs and tents to sleeping bags and gear built for comfort and durability, Kelty designs products that help families spend more time outside together and create lasting memories in nature.
In addition to Best Places to Camp With Kids, take a look back at Best Places to Camp: National Park Neighbors, and keep an eye out in the coming weeks and months for more Best Places to Camp awards for those looking for a very specific, once-in-a-lifetime camping adventure.
1. Normandy Farms Campground — Massachusetts
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Kristine D.
Location: Foxboro, MA
What makes it great: Normandy Farms is not your average campground. Halfway between Boston and Cape Cod, it is a luxury camping destination that has been a family tradition since 1971. Whether your family arrives in an RV or opts for one of the resort’s glamping rentals, 100 wooded acres sets the stage for an unforgettable getaway. When it comes to keeping kids busy and happy, Normandy Farms delivers in a big way. The themed playground features two areas designed for different age groups, and younger guests can splash around at a farm-themed splash pad. The resort boasts four pools in total, including an indoor heated pool, two outdoor Olympic-size pools, and a heated outdoor pool near the Reception Center.
For kids who love animals, the resort’s barn is a highlight not to be missed. The farm is home to a delightful collection of animals that doubles as a fun learning experience. Other amenities include basketball, bocce, cornhole, an 18-hole disc golf course, a fishing pond and picnic area, horseshoes, nature trails, pickleball, an RC track, a soccer field, softball fields, tennis and a volleyball court. Rainy days are no problem either, thanks to the 20,000-square-foot Recreation Lodge, which houses an arcade, fitness center, indoor pool, sauna and jacuzzi.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “We were here a couple years ago and told everyone we knew about it in the PNW never knowing if our big road trips would have us near Foxboro again. Imagine our surprise and delight when our quest to hit all the MLB parks showed Normandy as proximal to Fenway. Yahoo! Red Sox win and we get to be here again. Kids and adults alike love it. What’s not to love. It’s the kind of place summer camping trip memories are made of.” — Jennifer H.
“Absolutely love this campground. It has so many things for the kids to do. Everyone is so friendly. Can’t wait to go back for the 4th of July.” — Mary P.
Campground details
Price: $50-$200
Number of sites: 355
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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2. Greenbrier Campground — Tennessee
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Courtney B.
Location: Gatlinburg, TN
What makes it great: Greenbrier Campground is a standout destination for families looking to experience the magic of the Smoky Mountains. Whether your family prefers tent camping, RV camping, or staying in a cozy cabin, Greenbrier offers full-hookup campsites ranging from premier river frontage sites to wooded sites, along with camping cabins, deluxe camping cabins and bell tents. One of the biggest draws for kids at Greenbrier is its remarkable natural swimming spot right on the property. The Little Pigeon River runs around the campground, offering campers the best swimming hole in the Smokies — the famous Flint Rock — with a private beach and excellent trout fishing along the banks of the river.
For families who want even more outdoor adventure, Greenbrier’s location is truly unbeatable. The Greenbrier entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is less than a half-mile away, and families can spend the day exploring the mountains before enjoying the short trip back to camp for a fun or relaxing evening. Kids will never run out of things to do thanks to the campground’s amenities which include volleyball, basketball, badminton, bocce ball, cornhole, gaga ball and horseshoes, as well as a free game room, outdoor billiards, outdoor ping pong, foosball, a playground, bounce houses, and seasonal kids programs, movies, and live music.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “This campground is perfect for a trip to the Smokey Mountains. We drove from Maine and have enjoyed everything about it. The super clean campground as well a very clean private bathrooms with free showers. They have a trolley that runs several times a day which is great if you wanna go downtown and do some shopping or go to one of the several tasting spots. Great little spot to go swimming and several free things for kids to do.” — Stacy
“My husband and I brought our grandkids here for fall break and we were not disappointed. They really enjoyed the playground, game room and basketball court. We plan on going back next summer and will probably make this an annual family event.” — Lorena W.
Campground details
Price: $35-$258
Number of sites: 139
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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3. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground — Florida
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Julie L.
Location: Lake Buena Vista, FL
What makes it great: Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is a fantastic family destination with a campground that offers a unique blend of nature and Disney magic. The serene environment is home to various wildlife, including deer, rabbits and ducks, making it an exciting experience for children eager to explore the natural world. The beauty of the American frontier is alive here, creating an immersive experience that combines outdoor adventure with the enchanting spirit of Disney.
The spaciousness of the 750-acre campground means that kids can run, play, and explore safely, all while being surrounded by the enchanting beauty of nature. In addition to the beautiful surroundings, Fort Wilderness offers an array of activities designed specifically for families and children. From pony rides to archery and campfire activities, there’s never a dull moment. Kids can participate in fun-filled programs like the “Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long,” which features storytelling and sing-alongs with beloved Disney characters. The proximity to Disney theme parks means families can easily transition from camping to experiencing the magic of Disney, making it a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Can’t beat the convenience & amenities of the Disney parks are on your itinerary. Super cost effective and direct access to Magic Kingdom and easy access to all the others. Sites were big, clear and clean. Amenities were wonderful. I’d stay here even if we didn’t do a Disney park.” — Jennifer H.
“There are playgrounds spread throughout the campsite. We stayed with four other families and requested to be next to each other and Disney honored the request. We rented a golf cart on property, definitely worth it. You can also rent from off property vendors as well. You have a great view of the fireworks from the lake and beach area. They have a restaurant and food trucks in this area as well. Plenty of fun activities for the kids no need to go to the park everyday when staying here.” — Robert V.
Campground details
Price: $56-$201
Number of sites: 784
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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4. Spacious Skies Bear Den — North Carolina
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt
Location: Spruce Pine, NC
What makes it great: Spacious Skies Bear Den is the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, situated within the stunning Pisgah National Forest. Families can choose from full hook-up RV sites, water/electric options, wooded tent spots, or a large selection of deluxe and rustic cabins that provide different bed configurations and amenities to suit individual needs and camping comfort levels. When it comes to keeping kids entertained at the campground, Bear Den delivers with a rec hall with arcade, a playground, a swimming lake, cornhole, basketball, ping pong and gem mining.
Water lovers will be thrilled by the campground’s natural offerings. Bear Den features both a swimming lake and a private fishing lake stocked with trout, bass, and catfish, giving kids the chance to swim, splash and try their hand at fishing all in one place. A waterfall is also nearby, adding a sense of adventure and discovery to the natural landscape. The surrounding area also provides endless opportunities for family exploration and adventure. The Western North Carolina section of the Blue Ridge Parkway connects campers to forests, mountains, streams, and waterfalls, and families can spend their days hiking or exploring Asheville or a nearby mountain town.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “What a great campground. First off, it has some of the best campsites – wooded and with some level of privacy – that I’ve experienced in awhile. Kids loved the playground and there were a lot of other kids to make friends with. Also we enjoyed Cascades Trail on site. Just a very peaceful and well maintained campground!” — Caroline T.
“If you want to relax and be completely comfortable in the NC Mountains this is the place. Camp sites are very clean as is the entire resort. Many activities for the kids, plus swimming with a beach & fishing pond with beautiful waterfall.” — Corinne L.
Campground details
Price: $35-$252
Number of sites: 124
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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5. Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground — Texas
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Brittany S.
Location: Glen Rose, TX
What makes it great: There is no campground quite like Dinosaur Valley State Park. For families with kids, it offers an experience that is as educational as it is thrilling. Long ago, dinosaurs left footprints in the mud at the edge of an ancient ocean, and today, visitors can walk in their tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River. The sheer wonder of standing in an actual dinosaur footprint is something children never forget, and the park makes it easy to find them. The park also features a dinosaur interpretive center and life-size dinosaur replicas that kids of all ages will love.
The range of outdoor activities available at Dinosaur Valley gives families endless ways to fill their days. In addition to finding dinosaur tracks, there are opportunities to picnic, hike, mountain bike, swim, fish and paddle in the river, watch for wildlife, look for a geocache, ride horses or visit the interpretive center. The park offers 20 miles of trails, ensuring that hikers of every ability level — from young children on their first trail to seasoned outdoor adventurers — can explore the stunning landscape of the Texas Hill Country. The Paluxy River itself is a natural playground, perfect for wading, swimming and paddling.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Every camp spot has its own water source and electricity hookup, makes a huge difference at the hot Texas summer days and perfect for spending the nights not in a complete dark in case you’re using only a tent without a generator. The trails are great even in the Texan summer as many of them are beside the river where you can cool off. Highly recommended for families with kids all ages!” — Alejandro G.
“Awesome family camping. We loved Dinosaur Valley. Tons of great hiking for young kids to enjoy, our family especially loved exploring the river and finding the dino tracks.” — Jessica M.
Campground details
Price: $18-$70
Number of sites: 70
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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6. HTR Niagara Campground — New York
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Greg S.
Location: Grand Island, NY
What makes it great: HTR Niagara is a resort-style campground that offers families one of the most spectacular home bases imaginable, just minutes from one of the world’s most iconic natural attractions. For families with children, simply being this close to one of the great wonders of the natural world is enough to make any trip memorable. With a wide variety of lodging options — including log cabin rentals, yurts, full hookup RV sites, and tent campsites — there is truly something for every family’s style and budget. The on-site activities at HTR Niagara are designed with kids in mind, and there is no shortage of ways to keep younger campers entertained from morning to night.
Resort amenities include heated swimming pools, an activity center, mini golf, playgrounds, zipline attractions, laser tag, basketball courts, tetherball, gaga ball and a designated beach area. Experiences also include canoeing and kayaking, fishing, outdoor movie nights, wagon rides, and family activity programming during peak season. The campground’s natural setting adds even more to the family experience, featuring a centrally located recreational lake with fishing access, canoe and kayak launches, scenic walking paths, and nearby gathering areas.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Amazing campground! The staff was so helpful and nice. The campground was clean. We went in the off season and they still had plenty to do with the kids. Plenty of space. We had a great time! Definitely going back!” — Lindsey S.
“This place is amazing. The sites are very nicely spaced and level. Bathhouses are some of the nicest I’ve seen. So much to do that’s included in the price of the stay, which I thought was very reasonable. I wish we could have stayed longer. Definitely will try and return here.” — Jon P.
Campground details
Price: $77
Number of sites: 100
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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7. Camp A Way Campground — Nebraska
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Bryan R.
Location: Lincoln, NE
What makes it great: Camp A Way has been welcoming families for over 50 years and the sheer variety of kid-focused activities is genuinely impressive. Amenities include a jump pad, a ZoomFloom slide, water balloon wars, a barrel train, gem mining, a batting cage, gaga ball, a game room, jump shot basketball, a basketball court, a playground, and bike and pedal kart rentals. To make the most of these activities, Camp A Way offers FunPasses that are valid for up to one continuous week. Wristbands also include a bag of Water Wars balloons and three tabs redeemable for free ice cream, a slushie or more Water Wars balloons.
One of the most unique and memorable experiences for young campers is the gem mining attraction. Families can pan for treasures in a waterfall sluice, collecting shark teeth and arrowheads and discovering and identifying dozens of colorful minerals and fossils using included guides. Camp A Way’s location makes it an ideal base camp for exploring the greater Lincoln area as well, giving families plenty to do beyond the campground’s own impressive offerings. Local attractions within easy reach include Omaha’s Zoo, Robber’s Cave, the Nebraska State Capitol, Pinnacle Arena and the College World Series.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “We were here years ago when the kids were all a little younger. They had such fond memories that we made it work to swing thru Lincoln again and they had a blast even as teenagers. So many fun activities for the kids.” — Jennifer H.
“Beautiful and Fun. The campground was incredibly clean and well landscaped. Tons of fun activities for the kids! 5/5 will stay here again!” — Joseph I.
Campground details
Price: $35-$67
Number of sites: 130
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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8. Ocean Lakes Family Campground — South Carolina
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Nicole S.
Location: Myrtle Beach, SC
What makes it great: Ocean Lakes Family Campground boasts a full mile of oceanfront property packed with amenities. It features overnight campsites for RVs and tents, as well as beach houses for rent accommodating six to 20 guests. At the heart of the campground is the Sandy Harbor Family Fun Center, which is essentially a full-scale amusement and water park built right into the campground. Sandy Harbor Water Park features a lazy river, a splash zone interactive play structure for kids with slides, a tube slide, four-lane slide and a Tad Pool for tots.
There is also mini golf, indoor and outdoor pools, a game center and a poolside café — enough aquatic and entertainment options to fill multiple days without ever leaving the property. Other outdoor amenities include basketball, volleyball, fishing, cornhole, horseshoes, shuffleboard, a skateboard park, and beachfront playgrounds where little ones can swing and climb — all with the ocean as a backdrop. A Nature Center Discovery Lab adds an educational dimension for curious young minds.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “They have a lot of amenities to offer, including a waterpark with multiple pools, watersides, lazy river, kids’ play area, mini golf. They have a lot going on here for families. The beach has basketball courts, playgrounds, and you can rent golfcarts.” — Nicole S.
“We have been going to Ocean Lakes for over 20 years. We started out taking our daughter, and now are taking our grandkids. OC is definitely our happy place. A+++” — Missie G.
Campground details
Price:$40-$100
Number of sites: 859
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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9. Jellystone Park™ Quarryville — Pennsylvania
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Northgate R.
Location: Quarryville, PA
What makes it great: Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ in Quarryville is located on 63 lush, wooded acres adjoining a scenic 100-acre county park. Families can choose from an impressive range of accommodations, including luxury cabins as well as RV sites and tent sites. The beloved Yogi Bear™ characters woven throughout the experience give the park a whimsical, storybook quality that children absolutely adore from the moment they arrive.
The sheer volume and variety of kid-focused attractions at Jellystone Park™ is extraordinary, with something to delight children of every age and interest. The Water Zone features kiddie slides, a fort, water cannons, spray features, and more, while the campground also offers two swimming pools — one heated — ranging in depth, plus two hot tubs, one for kids 12 and under, with water volleyball and basketball built right into one of the pools. Beyond the water, kids can bounce on a giant jumping pillow measuring approximately 30 by 60 feet, try laser tag, pan for rocks and gemstones at Old Faceful gem mine and sluice, play in the arcade, explore hiking trails along Stewart Run Creek, fish in a pond stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill, play disc golf, and enjoy a playground, gaga ball pit, basketball courts and volleyball court — all on the same property.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “I’ve been coming here since I was 5 years old (now 28) And things here have definitely changed! In a good way! The pool and pavilion events, stopping into the store for a cold Icee drink and candy bar and meeting all kinds of cool people were some of my most memorable times camping as a kid. There is now an arcade and a mini water park! This place is awesome for kids and families!” — John R.
“We enjoy this campground and try to get here every year and stay in a different section each time. Staff is always friendly and the store is well stocked. Kids enjoy the water park and night time laser tag parties and hay rides. Plenty to do everyday and night, movies, jump pad, crafts or just a walk down to the pond for some fishing fun.” — David S.
Campground details
Price: $50-$120
Number of sites: 200
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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10. Lebanon Hills Regional Park — Minnesota
Photo courtesy of The Dyrt camper Emily G.
Location: Eagan, MN
What makes it great: Lebanon Hills Regional Park offers something truly rare: a genuine nature escape right in the heart of the Twin Cities metro area. Lebanon Hills Campground offers the best of both worlds — city close and country quiet. Just minutes from many popular Twin Cities destinations, including the Minnesota Zoo, this campground is surrounded by 2,000 acres of woods and lakes in beautiful Lebanon Hills Regional Park. The park offers miles of trails and many lakes for year-round outdoor sports, recreation and environmental education.
For kids who love the water, the park’s Schulze Lake Beach is a highlight of any visit. The sandy beach and clear water of Schulze Lake make it a popular spot for family swimming. Families can also rent canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, and access a nonmotorized boat launch and canoe route right from the beach — hours of water-based fun without ever leaving the park. The on-site playground gives younger kids a place to burn energy right at the campground, while fire rings at every site set the stage for classic evening campfire moments.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Frankly, I’m not sure when I’ve stayed at a better campground. The bathrooms and showers were spotless and clean three times a day. There’s a great playground area for the kids and lots of hiking.” — Bruce
“We love this campground. It’s a not-so-hidden gem of a campground. If you can find availability to make a reservation do not hesitate. This campground is well maintained and has access to plenty to do. Hiking, biking, and fishing to name a few.” — Jason S.
Campground details
Price: $24-$42
Number of sites: 77
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
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