America is heeding the call of the wild. With an estimated 84.8 million Americans ditching city lights to sleep under the stars in 2023, it’s clear that camping has never been more popular. As a result, according to The Dyrt’s 2024 Camping Report presented by The All-New Toyota Tacoma, 45.5% of campers reported having a difficult time getting a reservation at a campground. To that end, The Dyrt has compiled a list of the Top 10 Hardest-to-Book Campgrounds in the U.S.
“It’s great that more people are getting outdoors and embracing the joy of camping,” says The Dyrt founder Sarah Smith. “But now more than ever, it’s important to really plan ahead and secure your campsite well in advance. The Dyrt makes it easy to monitor availability and track cancellations in real time so you can find a place to rest at some of the country’s most beautiful locations.”
Among the most in-demand campgrounds are those operated within National Park Services (NPS) sites, which have skyrocketed in popularity. National parks might be America’s best idea, but the second-best idea is to book the best campsites well ahead of time — especially the sites on this list, which are typically booked solid for more than 93% of the season.
Ranging from an RV park in the Grand Tetons, to rustic sites along one of America’s most pristine lakeshores, to a city-adjacent reservoir, these campgrounds’ combination of natural beauty, proximity to must-see areas, essential amenities, and natural splendor make them the types of places campers visit again and again … if they reserve them in time. These are the Top 10 Hardest-to-Book Campgrounds in the U.S.
- Nevada Beach Campground — Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Nevada — 99.4%
- Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan — 99.4%
- Devils Garden Campground — Arches National Park, Utah — 99.2%
- Seven Points Campground — J. Percy Priest Lake, Tennessee — 97.6%
- Kirk Creek Campground — Los Padres National Forest, California — 97.5%
- Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan — 96.8%
- Aspenglen Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado — 96.1%
- Fruita Campground — Capitol Reef National Park, Utah — 95.9%
- Colter Bay RV Park at Colter Bay Village — Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming — 94.9%
- Twin Lakes Campground — Inyo National Forest, California — 93.7%
Looking to set up camp this summer at a National Parks Services site like these but haven’t scored a reservation? Campers can use The Dyrt Alerts to track cancellations at sold-out campgrounds.
“Last year’s hardest-to-book campground was full 100% of the season, while this year’s No. 1 comes in at just 99.4%,” jokes The Dyrt CEO Kevin Long. “But the fact is, even highly coveted sold-out campgrounds have cancellations. That’s why we created The Dyrt Alerts — to give more people a chance to book these life-changing outdoors experiences.”
The 10 Hardest-to-Book Campgrounds in the U.S.
1. Nevada Beach Campground — Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit — Nevada
Credit: Kristen B.
Percentage of year fully booked: 99.4%
Location: Zephyr Cove
Number of campsites: 54
Types of camping: Tents, small RVs
Why it’s so popular: Nestled among the pines near the eastern shores of iconic Lake Tahoe, Nevada Beach offers spectacular views of the shimmering waters right on the Nevada/California border.
With ample trails to explore the rugged shoreline, a spectacularly sandy beach, and plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing and waterskiing, this idyllic campground is paradise for anyone looking to explore the wonders of one of the Sierra’s most awe-inspiring destinations. There’s even a dog-friendly beach for furry campers to splash the day away.
For those looking to experience the area’s legendary restaurants, casinos and resorts, towns like South Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Zephyr Cove are as easy to access as the well-maintained trails surrounding this lakeside gem.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This campground was one of the nicest I’ve come across… . In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful places in the US. Amazing hiking around the lake. Mount Tallac is a killer but gorgeous hike. Go stand on the line between Nevada and California like I did! ” — Sam M.
“Gorgeous National Forest campground with big sites.” — Linda M.
“This lake is breathtakingly beautiful and is at its best in the early morning hours, with a cup of something hot to drink in your hands as you stand on the shore and gaze at the amazing colors and clarity of the water against a back drop of the Sierras.” — Tom and Mari
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Get notified of cancellations at Nevada Beach Campground
2. Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — Michigan
Credit: Amanda S.
Percentage of year fully booked: 99.4%
Location: Grand Marais
Number of campsites: 37
Types of camping: Tents, small RVs
Why it’s so popular: Michigan boasts nearly 3,300 miles of pristine coastline, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is arguably the state’s crown jewel. For centuries, people have marveled at these towering, borderline-psychedelic cliffs, which stretch a gorgeous 42 miles of coastline and protrude from the crystal waters of Lake Superior.
Centrally located a skipping stone’s throw from an immaculately sandy beach, Twelvemile’s well-maintained, accessible grounds offer easy access to the waters of Superior, plus landmarks like lighthouses, the otherworldly Chapel Rock and more. Add easy access to the charming Upper Peninsula towns of Grand Marais and Munising, and Twelvemile Beach is the ideal place to experience everything the Pictured Rocks have to offer from one easy vantage.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“The views were amazing!!! There was a steep decline to the water, but totally worth it!!! My kids loved it!” — Carla
“This is the most amazing campground there is. Words cannot do the beauty of this campground and area justice. I dream of being back here… I had a blast of a time, and so did my dog.” — Marta S.
“Great location near all of the beauty of Pictured Rocks…. Be sure to check out the natural wonders but also the adorable town of Grand Marais.” — Shawn M.
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Get notified of cancellations at Twelvemile Beach Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
3. Devils Garden Campground — Arches National Park — Utah
Credit: Sarah S.
Percentage of year fully booked: 99.2%
Location: Moab
Number of campsites: 52
Types of camping: Tents, small RVs
You should know: Devils Garden is first-come, first-served November through February
Why it’s so popular: The only developed campground inside the mind–blowing Arches National Park, Devils Garden is 18 miles from the park’s gates, but it might as well be on another planet.
Surrounded by the park’s iconic sandstone arches and Utah junipers, Devils Garden offers easy access to some of the park’s most beloved sights, including the famous Broken Arch Trail, the eye-popping Balanced Rock, and the harder-to-reach (but absolutely worth the effort) Delicate Arch and Fiery Furnace. The campground offers a peaceful resting place for a day of adventure that keeps you immersed in the wonders of Arches from sun-up to sundown.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Absolutely gorgeous place to live for a few days! It was fun to camp on the ground under the full moon… Absolutely breathtaking skywatching experience.” — Jeannie D.
“A great base camp from which to explore all the arches. There is also a trail leading directly out of the campground for local adventure.” — Matthew N.
“Arches is a land of extremes and its utterly stunning being the bottom of a ocean bed. I wish i could come back here every year.” — Graham
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Get notified of cancellations at Devils Garden Campground in Arches National Park
4. Seven Points Campground — J. Percy Priest Lake — Tennessee
Credit: Rick G.
Percentage of year fully booked: 97.6%
Location: Hermitage
Number of campsites: 61
Types of camping: Tents, RVs
Why it’s so popular: A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-maintained dam and reservoir, J. Percy Priest Lake is only about 10 miles east of bustling Nashville. Yet setting up camp at Seven Points makes Tennessee’s most vibrant city seem like a distant memory thanks to its wealth of scenic beauty, water sports and forested serenity.
At this campground, which The Dyrt users have called “immaculate” in its cleanliness and friendliness, the full potential of the J. Percy Priest Lake area is on display. Trails are humming with hikers and equestrians. The waters are perfect for peaceful swimming and water sports alike. And come dusk, the gorgeous sunsets reflecting in the calm, clear waters offer the ultimate way to wind down in nature while remaining close to the big-city charms due west.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“By far the nicest campground we have ever stayed at. Well maintained. Very clean. Nice beach. Hosts all very pleasant and attentive. Doesn’t get much better than this.” — Borkhuis D.
“This place is gorgeous. The lake view and night skies are amazing. The water is warm, which isn’t something I’m used to being from further north, but the campsites are so nicely groomed and the place is pristine. I could stay here for weeks.” — Sean M.
“Beautiful camping area set right along the shores of an awesome lake. Camp managers very friendly and helpful.” — Greg G.
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Get notified of cancellations at Seven Points Campground
5. Kirk Creek Campground — Los Padres National Forest — California
Credit: Megan C.
Percentage of year fully booked: 97.5%
Location: Lucia
Number of campsites: 32
Types of camping: Tents, RVs
You should know: A select number of sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis for those looking to roll the dice
Why it’s so popular: Situated on a scenic bluff right off the iconic Highway 1, Kirk Creek isn’t just a legend of the camping community: It’s a destination with prehistoric archaeological wonders that earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Here, every site serves as a vista point overlooking the wondrous Big Sur shoreline, where the evening transforms into a natural fireworks display as the sun sets over the horizon. For those seeking a sandy beach, Kirk Creek is a short drive from the storied Sand Dollar Beach, while those who explore the adjoining trails will discover a wealth of redwood groves, waterfalls, cliffs, coves and secluded waterfront spaces to call their own.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“There’s nothing that can compare to drifting off the sleep on the edge of the earth while gazing up at the milky-way, cut off from the rest of the world… my favorite place on Earth.” — Jessica
“Did not know you could see such beauty in a campsite. Absolutely heavenly views, staff was great, A+ experience.” — AM S.
“Personally I think it the best spot in Big Sur, over looking the ocean on one side and the Forrest on the other. Lots of hiking around the area, or just driving down PCH time feels like it’s stops! Definitely one of my top camping spots highly recomend!” — Brianne S.
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Get notified of cancellations at Kirk Creek Campground in Los Padres National Forest
6. Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — Michigan
Credit: John P.
Percentage of year fully booked: 96.8%
Location: Grand Marais
Number of campsites: 22
Types of camping: Tents, small RVs
Why it’s so popular: Like Twelvemile Beach, Hurricane River is located in the colorful heart of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and with the sounds of the Hurricane River emptying into mighty Lake Superior, it’s one of the most peaceful destinations for campers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
This rustic campground offers a chance to truly unplug while being immersed in the majesty of Michigan’s natural bounty. Whether enjoying a short hike to the Au Sable Light Station, spying the remains of shipwrecks from on high, or just gazing up at the vibrant colors of the cliffs from the beach, this campground offers endless opportunities to truly experience Michigan at its purest.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Spectacular rustic private campground on the beautiful shores of Superior. Tent pads are awesome and help keep the rain out of the tents. Peaceful and quiet, the river flows through the camp and gives a beautiful sunset view.” — Eric
“Amazing location on Lake Superior in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Short hike to lighthouse.” — Mark B.
“You will not be bored since so many great sites are so near- within a bit of a hike or a quick drive. Wooded sites make for some feeling of seclusion.” — Sara S.
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Get notified of cancellations at Hurricane River Campground — Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
7. Aspenglen Campground — Rocky Mountain National Park — Colorado
Credit: Renae P.
Percentage of year fully booked: 96.1%
Location: Estes Park
Number of campsites: 55
Types of camping: Tents, small RVs
Why it’s so popular: With its convenient location near Rocky Mountain National Park’s popular Fall River entrance, Aspenglen’s location alone makes it a campsite worth waiting for. This forested campground is the gateway to the epic, sprawling environs of one of America’s most breathtaking national parks, making it a place where casual hikers and mountaineers alike can commingle while spotting elk, bighorns and other wildlife.
Thanks to its convenient location, Aspenglen offers relatively easy access to some of the Rockies’ most popular areas, many of which are reachable by the Trail Ridge road and Old Fall River Road. And with Estes Park’s great restaurants, golf courses and adventure expeditions just down the road, the campground is an exceptional place to truly experience the best of Colorado in one central location.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Absolutely incredible. Not even sure what else to say. Scenery was amazing. Our site was spacious and felt relatively private. Truly one of the best campsites we’ve ever had. — Brady J.
“Of all the national parks where I’ve camped, this was my favorite campsite – secluded, quiet, well-maintained, beautiful scenery, plenty of bear lockers, easy park access with proximity to a grocery store, flush toilets and running water! I can’t recommend it enough!” — Kyle K.
“The views alone were breathtaking at this campground. You’ll definitely see plenty of deer freely roam around the camp even in the middle of the day. Great site, great views, great park rangers.” — Marisa L.
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Get notified of cancellations at Aspenglen Campground inRocky Mountain National Park
8. Fruita Campground — Capitol Reef National Park — Utah
Credit: Jenny W.
Percentage of year fully booked: 95.9%
Location: Teasdale
Number of campsites: 66
Types of camping: Tents, RVs
You should know: Fruita Campground is reservable March through October and is first-come, first-served November through February
Why it’s so popular: Capitol Reef is often overshadowed by Utah’s better-known national parks, but with its stunning red-rock views and ancient petroglyphs, it stands tall next to Arches and Bryce as a must-see. And Fruita Campground — surrounded by historic orchards and the Fremont River Fruita — is the ideal base camp for exploring its many wonders.
The site’s proximity to the Capitol Gorge and Gooseneck Trails make it easy to feel displaced in time as ancient rock formations reveal early human etchings. Longer trails to Cassidy Arch and Chimney Rock, meanwhile, further reveal the area’s mysterious landscape. Whether spending the day on a long, scenic drive through the red-rock roads or squeezing through a slot canyon, be sure to stop by Gifford House for a slice of pie made from the fruits of the orchards that give the campsite its name. Pie and petroglyphs, it seems, are the perfect pairing.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“Fall colours in all their splendour, deer at our fence, stroll to the Gifford house for pies and souvenirs…couldn’t have hoped for more!” — Bramy S.
“Absolutely wonderful experience staying at this campground.I fell asleep under the sky full of giant stars to the music of the flowing waters of Fremont river. This was probably as close to how the Pioneers experienced this oasis when they came upon it, as one can get.” — Sophie
“Capitol reef is such an interesting park and so much less crowded than the others in Utah. You’ll see a lot of the same impressive red rocks but fruita is located near the orchards which is such a nice oasis.” — Alyssa L.
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Get notified of cancellations at Fruita Campground — Capitol Reef National Park
9. Colter Bay RV Park at Colter Bay Village — Grand Teton National Park — Wyoming
Credit: Krissy P.
Percentage of year fully booked: 94.9%
Location: Moran
Number of campsites: 112
Types of camping: RVs (tent sites are available at neighboring Colter Bay Tent Village and Colter Bay Campground)
Why it’s so popular: Considered by The Dyrt community to be among the Best Places to RV in the U.S., the sprawling Colter Bay RV Park offers visitors creature comforts at the foot of the Grand Tetons. Truly embracing its status as “summer camp for the whole family,” this fully functioning NPS village on shimmering Jackson Lake offers dining, laundry facilities, a grocery store, a marina and other amenities to enhance its sweeping mountain views.
From Colter Bay, nearly any Grand Teton adventure is within reach. From kayaking and horseback riding to fishing, mountaineering, hiking and wildlife spotting, the park’s convenient location means campers can experience the Tetons of their dreams and still be back to watch the snow-capped mountains turn majestically purple as the sun and moon swap places.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“This is a great full hook up campground inside the national park. Bathhouses were clean and the campground is really quiet. The stars at night are phenomenal and we can’t wait to come back.” — Meghan T.
“We watched a gorgeous and colorful sunset dip over the Tetons from the Willow Flats Overlook. Then returned to camp. Then we woke up early to experience sunrise and took in the array of colors and early rising wildlife that were roaming in the grassy areas not too far from Rockefeller Pkwy.” — Eaton T.
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Get notified of cancellations at Colter Bay RV Park at Colter Bay Village — Grand Teton National Park
10. Twin Lakes Campground — Inyo National Forest — California
Credit: Erin M.
Percentage of year fully booked: 93.7%
Location: Mammoth Lakes
Number of campsites: 94
Types of camping: Tents, RVs
Why it’s so popular: An adventurer’s dream in the rugged eastern Sierra Mountains smack between Tahoe and Sequoia National Park, the waterfront sites of Twin Lakes offer campers a place to relax and regroup following a long day enjoying the wide array of activities in the area.
World-class trout fishing, boating, waterfall hikes, mountain biking and more are at their best at this gorgeous site 8,600 feet above sea level, where the air is as fresh as the views are stunning. Explore further via the adjoining John Muir Wilderness, or just kick back and listen to the gentle waves lap on the shore. And should the thirst for adventure strike, the on-site general store’s friendly staff is on hand to provide boat rentals and other supplies.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say:
“I visit this site on a yearly basis. It is absolutely beautiful and breathtaking. I can’t wait for this years trip.” — Ashley C.
“Fantastic campground nestled along shores of Town Lakes and amid pine forest. Abundance of recreational activities. Fishing, kayaking, row boats, paddle boards. Hiking, Mountian Biking and when it snows – telemark skiing, snow showing. Well kept campground. Nice sites. Wonderful camp hosts.” — Sallie H.
“The campground is right on the lake for great views and incredible sunsets and rises.” — Mary C.
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Get notified of cancellations at Twin Lakes Campground — Inyo National Forest
Main image credit: Chris R.