With upcoming three-day weekends for many people, it’s prime time to start planning some long-weekend camping trips. This is your weekend to reflect, kick back, and rejuvenate. We have highlighted some top three-day camping trip ideas. All are within a short drive from major urban centers to accommodate a relatively short trip and are beautiful settings for relaxation and outdoor adventuring. Note that when booking your trip, most state parks have a two-night minimum on holiday weekends, so make sure you’re able to make a whole weekend of it.
1. Panola Mountain State Park, Georgia
Why We Love it:
- Plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family
- Iconic granite outcrop well worth seeing
- Just 15 minutes outside of Atlanta
Count Panola Mountain State Park is among the top-rated three-day camping trip ideas in Georgia. Only a 15-minute drive from Atlanta is an outdoor oasis for the whole family. Panola Mountain State Park has picnic tables, playgrounds, archery areas, biking, and fitness trails. The mountain itself is a 100-acre granite outcrop and is considered the crown jewel of the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area – one of only three National Heritage Areas in the state. The exposed granite surface, surrounded by woodlands creates an unusual and beautiful setting that became an important cultural and trading area for various peoples, from Native Americans and early settlers to freed slaves, and even Trappist monks. Visitors can camp in one of five campsites, or rent a pavilion and picnic shelters.
2. Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, Lower Colorado River Authority in Texas
Why We Love it:
- Airstreams available to rent
- Boat rentals at Lake Bastrop
- Just an hour’s drive from Austin
Just an hour east of Austin, situated on the banks of Lake Bastrop, is North Shore Park. There are boat rentals, picnic areas, a camp store, and designated hiking and biking trails. There are also a variety of camping opportunities to suit your preference: tent camping, RV hookups, and Airstream trailers with heaters, showers, toilets, and kitchens.
Recommended: Campgrounds with Yurts
3. Lake Norman State Park, North Carolina
Why We Love it:
- Largest man-made lake in the state
- Lots of trails for both hiking and biking
- An hour’s drive north of Charlotte
The largest man-made lake in North Carolina, Lake Norman is the centerpiece of its namesake park. Year-round fishing and boating are enjoyed on its expansive waters. For wintertime guests looking to stay warm on land, the park boasts popular hiking and mountain biking trails, including over 30 miles of dedicated, single-track trail. The park features 33 campsites with tent pads, picnic tables, and grills, as well as an extensive picnic area for large gatherings, making it a great three-day weekend camping trip idea for groups of all sizes.
4. Keystone State Park, Pennsylvania
Why We Love it:
- Year-round activities
- Modern cabins, and camping cottages for winter retreats
- Less than an hour’s drive from Pittsburgh
Easily within driving distance from Pittsburgh and the Laurel Highlands, Keystone State Park is great for day trips and year-round camping getaways, and of course makes a perfect three-day camping trip idea. The park offers a variety of trails open year-round for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. When weather conditions allow ice fishing, sledding, and ice skating are all popular winter activities. Eleven modern cabins and three camping cottages are available to rent, along with many electric sites.
5. Charlestown State Park, Indiana
Why We Love it:
- Park is known for its picnicking, fishing, and birding opportunities
- Only 30 minutes northeast of Louisville, KY
A top three-day camping trip idea in Indiana is Charlestown State Park, beloved for its many scenic trails that overlook Fourteen Mile Creek. This area is noteworthy for being some of the oldest stream valleys in Indiana. The creek serves as a tributary to the Ohio River and is adjacent to a curious isolated bedrock ridge dubbed Devil’s Backbone. The environment is also home to over 70 bird species, including eagles and osprey. There are 189 campsites, including full hookups.
Recommended: 9 Underrated State Parks You Need to Visit
6. Roosevelt State Park, Mississippi
Why We Love it:
- Lots of amenities, such as game room and tennis courts
- Large lake for boating and fishing
- 15 cabins for rent as well
Conveniently located between Meridian and Jackson, Roosevelt State Park is a picturesque backdrop for outdoor recreation and relaxation, perfect for a three-day weekend. Plenty of amenities are available for use, including a banquet hall, game room, performing arts & media center, picnic areas and pavilions, disc golf, playgrounds, tennis courts, nature trails, and more. Shadow Lake, a 150-acre freshwater lake, is perfect for fishing, boating, or water skiing in warmer weather. The area is defined by its hardwood forests and gently sloping landscape. A scenic overlook offers sweeping views of nearby Bienville National Forest. Overnighters can stay in one of 109 campsites or 15 vacation cabins.
Recommended: Campgrounds with Boat Launches Across the U.S.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!