The Best Campsites for Beginners (and How to Find Them)
Start Your Camping Journey in the Right Spot
So you’ve got your gear, packed your cooler, and you're ready for your first real camping trip. Now comes the big question: Where should you go? Not all campsites are created equal, especially when you're just starting out.
Choosing the right location can make the difference between a magical weekend under the stars and a stressful, soggy misadventure.
Here’s how to find beginner-friendly campsites—and a few great options to get you started.
What Makes a Campsite Beginner-Friendly?
When you're new to camping, keep things simple. Look for sites that offer:
✅ Easy access – Drive-up sites with parking nearby (no backpacking required)
✅ Amenities – Bathrooms, running water, and trash disposal are your best friends
✅ Flat ground – For easy tent setup and better sleep
✅ Shade and shelter – Protection from wind and sun
✅ Quiet hours – Family-friendly campgrounds often enforce these
Pro Tip: Campgrounds inside state or national parks are usually well-maintained, easy to reserve, and scenic. Perfect for first-timers.
How to Find Beginner-Friendly Campsites
You don’t need to be a wilderness detective. These tools make finding your first campsite a breeze:
1. Recreation.gov
Book campsites in U.S. national parks, forests, and other federal lands. Includes site photos, reviews, and maps.
2. ReserveAmerica.com
Covers many state parks and local campgrounds. Great filters for amenities, accessibility, and pet policies.
3. The Dyrt (App & Website)
Crowd-sourced reviews, maps, and tips from real campers. Sort by “beginner-friendly” or filter by features like showers, fire pits, etc.
4. Hipcamp
Think Airbnb for campsites—includes private land, glamping spots, and unique stays. Many have helpful host tips and first-time perks.
5. Google Maps Reviews
Look up campgrounds and scroll through the reviews. Look for mentions like “clean bathrooms,” “quiet,” or “great for families.”
Top Beginner-Friendly Campsites in America
Need inspiration? These popular spots are known for their beauty and beginner-friendliness:
1. Cades Cove – Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN)
Wildlife, scenic drives, easy hikes
Flush toilets, fire rings, nearby visitor center
Perfect for families or first-timers
2. Doheny State Beach – Dana Point, CA
Oceanfront camping with restrooms and hot showers
Short walk to the beach and food nearby
Great intro to coastal camping
3. Devils Lake State Park – Baraboo, WI
Lakeside camping, hiking trails, kayak rentals
Flush toilets, camp store, and lifeguarded swimming
Midwest favorite for newbies
4. Cherry Creek State Park – Aurora, CO
Just outside Denver
Full restrooms, picnic areas, lake access
Perfect for weekenders and urban dwellers
5. Assateague Island National Seashore – MD/VA
Camp alongside wild horses near the beach
Basic amenities, unique setting
Ideal for beginners looking for something unforgettable
6. McCormick's Creek State Park – Spencer, IN
Indiana’s first state park, filled with trails, caves, and a scenic canyon
Campground includes modern restrooms, picnic areas, and a nature center
A great mix of natural beauty and family-friendly convenience, plus a nostalgic, childhood favorite of this author
Final Tips for Booking Your First Campsite
Reserve early. Popular spots can fill up months in advance—especially in summer.
Check site details. Is there a picnic table? Fire ring? Nearby restrooms?
Read reviews. Fellow campers are the best source of on-the-ground info.
Confirm the rules. Know the quiet hours, pet policies, and check-in procedures.
Start Small, Stay Comfortable
Your first camping trip doesn’t have to be deep in the wilderness. In fact, it shouldn’t be. The best beginner campsites are easy to get to, easy to enjoy, and help you build confidence without stress.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can venture into more remote spots, or just keep enjoying the same go-to site that works for you. There’s no wrong way to camp… as long as s’mores are involved.
Happy camping,
JP