Northeast Camping Gems

If you’re down for a trek to the northernmost parts of The Pine Tree State, consider camping at Aroostook State Park. Just a stone’s throw from the Canadian border, Maine’s oldest state park stretches across nearly 800 acres and offers plenty of trails as well as kayak and canoe rentals so that you can paddle your heart out on Echo Lake.

If a trip to the White Mountains is in your stars, make sure it includes a stop at Twin Mountain. Deluxe cabins make long stays a breeze. Adrenaline junkies can seek out close encounters with moose on guided tours, hike to the top of Mount Washington (the Northeast’s highest peak), or take a short trip outside the campground to one of several nearby theme parks like the Fort Jefferson Fun Park for a rollercoaster ride.

At the base of Mt. Mossalamoo (say that five times fast) is Branbury State Park, right on the shores of Lake Dunmore. With only lean-tos and tent sites available, those who don’t mind getting down and dirty will be granted access to a natural beach and hiking trails to caves, waterfalls, and jaw-dropping views. We’ll gladly live the sleeping bag life for that pay-off.

Venture to Cape Cod and you’ll get the chance to visit not one, not two, but 17 different lighthouses, including the famous Chatham Lighthouse. While you’re there, camp out at Nickerson State Park, where you’ll find 400 campsites and trails that can be traversed via foot, bike, and horse.

Making an overnight stop and want easy access to arts, entertainment, and highways? Northampton / Springfield KOA is the campground for you.

Rhode Island makes it clear that size isn’t everything. What’s not to love about this tiny state? One spot that holds a special place in our hearts is Burlingame State Park, a popular recreation area made up of Watchaug Pond and rocky woodlands. It’s a perfect place to pitch a tent before heading off to the legendary Newport Cliff Walk.

Channel your inner Olympian and spend a night or a few at Lake Placid / Whiteface Mountain KOA. You’ll bask in the majesty of the Adirondacks and have the chance to catch a glimpse of Olympic athletes training at the Summer Jumping Series. Home can be a wooded tent site or deluxe cabin.

Head north and make your way to Fair Haven Beach State Park. Right on the shoreline of Lake Ontario, one night at this impressive park with three separate campgrounds will show you there’s a reason they’re called the Great Lakes. Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboat and take it for a spin to enjoy gorgeous views. Bring a friend or 50 and rent out a 30-unit cabin colony for the ultimate getaway!

Take a trip back to the 19th-century and pitch a tent at Allaire State Park. Miles of trail networks give you the chance to explore this whopping 3,035-acre state park, including its iron-making town, Allaire Village. Plus, you’re just a short drive away from some of the Jersey Shore’s best beaches – spread a towel out at Spring Lake with its Victorian charm or hit the rides and games at the Point Pleasant Beach boardwalk.

Want to hike the Pocono Mountains, paddle down the Delaware Water Gap, play Bingo, hit up a giant flea market, and visit a Native American museum – all in one day? You bring your A-game, KOA will supply the accommodations. Their location near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers luxury lodges and cabins as well as large wooded tent sites central to everything great the region has to offer.