Whether you call it primitive camping or backcountry camping, there is nothing quite as exciting as forging off the beaten path to discover new sights and adventures. Although you might give up some amenities like cell phone connections, RV hookups, and showers, primitive camping in the wilderness offers serenity and the chance to get away from crowds. A great starting point is heading to a state park that provides primitive camping sites. You’ll find that they are easy to find, as most states that have primitive or remote camping sites available. Here’s a list of state parks around the country that provide great primitive camping options.
New River State Park, North Carolina
Primitive camping at this state park features both walk-in camping, which is relatively close to parking, and canoe-in camping, available at a number of access points along the river. You can enjoy the pastoral settings with meadows, hillsides, and farmlands. The slow river running through the park is thought to be one of the oldest in North America. Tranquil surroundings offer an old-fashioned charm to the area. Popular activities here include birding, bass fishing, picnicking, and canoeing. Take a drive on winding roads to explore the countryside.
Pillsbury State Park, New Hampshire
Discover a rustic campground with eleven remote sites to get you well away from your everyday world. This is primitive camping at its best, right at the headwaters of the Ashuelot River. You’ll find all sorts of wildlife that make this wooded area their home, with the ponds and wetlands providing habitat for loons and other birds. Make sure to look out for moose, which is always a thrill in any setting. This park has a link with a long 51-mile hiking trail. If you don’t want to venture too far, the park also has a whole network of hiking trails as well as mountain bike trails to enjoy. Other activities include boating, picnicking and fishing.
Lory State Park, Colorado
Colorado is a popular state to get out for some backcountry adventures at remote sites. At Lory State Park, you will find backcountry camping is available for those campers who are looking for a quiet getaway. Next to the Horsetooth Reservoir, you’ll find hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, picnicking, and mountain biking through the foothills. The 26 miles of trails have no more than a 12% grade, so it is easy to get in time for short or long hikes or trail runs. The east side of the park is where you can explore the reservoir’s coves and bays. Launch your private canoe, kayak, or raft and move across the water in peaceful solitude.
Recommended: 10 Cool Tent Camping Destinations
Sand Hollow State Park, Utah
You can hardly beat primitive camping at the beach. At this state park you will find 60 primitive campsites. Sand Hollow Reservoir offers boating and fishing while the red sandstone landscapes give you places to ride the dunes in off-highway vehicles. Make a campfire in the evening and get ready for adventures the next day. With thousands of acres of sculpted dunes, taking OHVs for a spin becomes an obsession. Equestrians also have use of the park and find the setting a stunning place to ride.
Colorado Bend State Park, Texas
Here in the unspoiled wilderness of this state park, you will find hike-in primitive sites to satisfy your adventurous side. Hike to Gorman Falls on the 3-mile-round-trip day-use hiking trail. There are 35 miles of trails, so you have lots of choices. Take a dip in Spicewoood Springs. You might want to try your hand at fishing in the river, or launch a canoe or kayak and paddle the afternoon away. This is a premier spot for back-to-nature camping.
Taylorsville Lake State Park, Kentucky
This state park has 15 primitive tent sites to choose from that are right on the Taylorsville Lake. Bring your own, or rent a boat as boating and fishing are popular here, Vie for bluegill, crappie, or bass. Hikers will appreciate the 16-mile trail system, which can also be used for those who want to get some in mountain biking or horseback riding. You might catch some glimpses of bald eagles, as well as other wildlife. Kids will have access to two different playgrounds. This is a great spot for a primitive camping experience.
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.