Camping is having a major moment. As more Americans seek affordable, nature-focused getaways, one outdoor travel company just released what may become the go-to guide for summer trip planning.
Hipcamp, a platform that connects travelers with outdoor stays, has named its 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America Right Now. The list spans 30 states and the Navajo Nation, highlighting sites that go beyond your typical campground. Think treehouses in the New Mexico forest, cliffside tents overlooking the California coast, and family-run farms in the Midwest.
The announcement marks the first time Hipcamp has published a nationwide list of camper-endorsed favorites.
From Redwoods to Reefs: The Top Picks
While the entire list is extensive, and there’s probably a campground that’s near to you, these were among the standout locations:
- Village Camp Flagstaff (Arizona), a high-elevation retreat with cool summer temps and mountain views
- Slide Ranch (California), set on a coastal bluff near Marin with on-site farm experiences
- Timber Cove Campground (California), tucked into Sonoma County’s redwood forests
- Buttonwood Campground (Florida), offering beach access inside Bahia Honda State Park
- Sun Farm Hawaii at Koko Head (Hawaii), a small-scale camp with sweeping views of Oʻahu’s southern coastline
All sites were selected based on camper reviews, site quality, and memorable experiences, and not just based on popularity.
Americans Are Booking Campsites Like Never Before
According to Hipcamp, demand for outdoor stays has grown sharply since the pandemic, and it hasn’t slowed down. The company now lists over 500,000 campsites nationwide, and campers are increasingly choosing spots that offer privacy, unique views, and access to hiking, water, or stargazing.
The trend isn’t limited to tent campers, either. Many of the sites on this year’s list include yurts, cabins, vintage trailers, or glamping tents. The diversity reflects a growing appetite for nature without sacrificing comfort, especially among older travelers and families with young kids. One example is Santa Fe Treehouse Camp, which offers whimsical treetop lodging in northern New Mexico.
What Makes This List Different
While many “top campground” lists focus on national parks or RV resorts, Hipcamp’s version leans into the personal. It favors private landowners, lesser-known destinations, and places that give visitors a more immersive connection with nature. Some of the highest-rated spots are hosted on family farms or tribal lands, often with just a handful of campsites available.
Hipcamp says this approach aligns with how Americans are choosing to travel in 2025: slower, more intentional, and more connected to place.
If you’re planning a summer trip and want to avoid crowds — or maybe discover somewhere entirely new — this list may be worth bookmarking.
