What's a successful road trip without a proper destination? While we could suggest the big cities or popular resorts, those aren't groundbreaking ideas. Instead, let's pack our tents and set our sights on some of the most beautiful national and state parks in the United States. What better way to enjoy a socially distanced adventure than to go camping?
Any avid camper will tell you that no park is the same; each provides its own unique terrain, sounds, wildlife and more. Each journey is no different. Our favorite camping destinations take you through scenic states and near major attractions, making your camping road trip packed with beauty and action.
Less than two hours away from the nation's capital is a camping ground perfect for sightseers and hikers alike. Virginia's Shenandoah National Park is a stellar destination for anyone on the East Coast looking for a trip to the White House and Old Rag Mountain in the same day. The park boasts hundreds of miles of trails, each offering plenty of stimulating sights and challenging journeys. So before you make the trip, make sure your body's mileage is as solid as your tires.
For those of you looking to stretch your car's mileage and not your legs', the Florida Keys have their own gem to offer: Bahia Honda State Park. This park offers a variety of camping sites alongside beautiful beaches and lush palm trees: it's quite close to being a pocket of paradise. If sea breezes are what you're looking for, get ready for the long haul, as Bahia Honda State Park is more than two hours from Miami and a bit isolated. Be sure to give your tires a thorough check before driving down the sandy coast to this camping ground.
Moving to the opposite side of the country, the Pacific Northwest is a playground for camping enthusiasts thanks to a multitude of locales like the Olympic Peninsula, home of Olympic National Park. Located near the coast of Washington State, Olympic boasts one of the most diverse groups of ecosystems in the country. At over 1 million acres in size and with sweeping changes in elevation, you can drive in the mountains and rain forests in the same trip. Be sure to pack your climbing gear and bug spray in the same bag.
Lastly, we couldn't resist highlighting Grand Canyon National Park, a truly iconic place and perhaps the most famous natural wonder in the United States. Whether you hail from the West Coast or the Midwest, a road trip to the Grand Canyon is well worth the price of gas. Along the way, you can enjoy the red rocks and endless desert of Arizona until you reach the breathtaking view of the canyon itself. Tire prep aside, be sure to but pack plenty of water for your trip: the dry heat can be tricky.
Road trips can lead you to truly beautiful locations that stand far above the usual tourist traps. When you plan your next road trip, give yourself and your tires a taste of nature for a breath of fresh air.
