Outdoor experiences are great for both your physical and mental health, but some people consider themselves stuck inside all winter. But that doesn’t have to be the case! Winter camping is an option if you have the right gear to keep you warm and dry. Or you can choose beach camping.
Even for dedicated campers, winter camping might sound extreme. But there are beautiful locations for camping in the winter, and not all of them are in frigid locations. Don’t miss out on a chance to get out of the house and explore the outdoors in the next few months. Check out these wintertime camping spots!
High Sierras in California
The High Sierras in California are known for their stunning waterfalls, boulder outcroppings, and amazing hiking trails. You can opt for a yurt, which you can rent from the park and include heat and electricity. If you’d rather go for tent camping, be sure you’re off the ground, either with a sleeping pad or with an elevated rooftop tent to the roof of your car. You can find elevated tents and other Jeep camping essentials to make car camping safer in colder climates.
Chugach State Park in Alaska
If you’re more of a cabin person, you can find rentable cabins all over Alaska state parks, including Chugach State Park. There are public cabins along trails and remote lakes, streams, and ocean waters. They can accommodate up to 12 people, and they come with the basics like sleeping platforms, a dining set, and latrine. But you’ll only be able to reach some via the highway; otherwise, you’ll need to hike, snowmobile, or ski to them.
Padre Island National Seashore in Texas
Looking to skip the cold altogether? One of the most beautiful locations for camping in the winter is on the beach on Padre Island located in Texas. If you’d rather not worry about wearing the proper number of layers, you can opt for a t-shirt and shorts. On this tiny paradise in the Southwest, you’ll find coastline, dunes, and prairies to explore. Plus, since it’s the offseason, you’ll have a better chance at reserving an excellent beach campsite.
Wintertime doesn’t mean you have to stay inside—you just need to get more creative with your locations.