How to Celebrate National Camping Month This June
- Campspotter
With longer days and warmer weather, June is the perfect time to pack your bags and head outdoors. In fact, it’s nationally recognized as such—June is National Camping Month and Great Outdoors Month!
More and more people are participating in the month-long celebration and spending their summer outdoors, with reservations on Campspot up by 28% year over year in the summer months. One of the great things about camping (and there are many) is that it doesn’t require long-term planning, so you can jump into summer camping ASAP. The majority of campers on Campspot (64%) make their reservations three months or less in advance.
Kick off summer and celebrate National Camping Month with an outdoor adventure of your own, following our insights and recommendations below.
History of National Camping Month and Great Outdoors Month
National Camping Month has been celebrated every June since the 1970s. It was established to encourage people to reconnect with nature, spend quality time with family and friends, and enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor living. This initiative highlights the accessibility and affordability of camping, encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the joys of sleeping under the stars, cooking over a campfire, and exploring scenic landscapes.
Great Outdoors Month originally began as Great Outdoors Week under President Clinton in 1998, and has since grown under the Bush, Obama, and Trump administrations into a month-long celebration of outdoor recreation and our country’s public lands and waters.
Both observances aim to foster a love for the outdoors and promote environmental stewardship, helping to ensure that natural spaces are preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.
Visit Award-Winning Campgrounds This June
Celebrate National Camping Month this June by exploring the crème de la crème of campgrounds in North America. Recognized for their commitment to excellence, the 2024 Campspot Awards winners represent the best in amenities, scenery, and outdoor experiences.
These top-rated campgrounds provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable camping trip this summer, spanning categories like best parks for RVs, tent camping, glamping, water parks, and more.
Here’s a glimpse of just some of the winners from a few of the categories.
Top Campgrounds for RVs
Sun Outdoors Paso Robles – Paso Robles, CA
Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, California
Visit a resort designed by nature. Where the inspiring natural setting offers more than views… it’s the heart of the experience. Whether you arrive by RV or stay in one of the cottages, you’ll be immersed in a different kind of setting. Built for relaxation, Sun Outdoors Paso Robles is the peak destination for RV camping in California. This luxury resort is nestled in the Paso Robles wine region,
'24- Pool
- Hot Tub / Sauna
- Dog Park
- Cable TV
- Arcade
- Mini-Golf
- Golf Cart Rental
- Arts & Crafts
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Outdoor Theater
- Ice Cream
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Snack Stand
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
- Special Events
Winning a spot in three categories—Top Campgrounds for RVs, Top Large Campgrounds, and Top Campgrounds for Groups—Sun Outdoors Paso Robles offers some of the best RV camping in California. Nestled in the Paso Robles wine region near the Pacific coast, this resort offers endless amenities for maximum comfort during your adventure, including spas, fire pits, a wellness center, wine tasting, and outdoor movies.
Verde Ranch RV Resort – Camp Verde, AZ
Verde Ranch RV Resort, Camp Verde, Arizona
Verde Ranch RV Resort is located in the heart of Verde Valley, Arizona. Planned with relaxation in mind and built with impeccable attention to detail, this resort has it all. Choose from one of their full hookup RV sites with 50 amp service, one of their furnished vacation rental cottages, including studio, one- and two-bedroom options or try their Glamping options which include Conestoga Wagons
- '24
- Waterpark
- Pool
- Hot Tub / Sauna
- Dog Park
- Bike Rental
- Cable TV
- Arcade
- Golf Cart Rental
- Arts & Crafts
- Playground
- Ice Cream
- Shuffleboard
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Special Events
Another multi-category winner for Top Campgrounds in the U.S., Top RV Campgrounds, and Top Large Campgrounds, Verde Ranch RV Resort in the heart of Verde Valley, Arizona, offers full hookup RV sites with 50 amp service, cottages, and glamping options. Their wealth of amenities will keep the entire family happy and entertained—that is, when you’re back from your adventures to the nearby Grand Canyon, Jerome, Flagstaff, Cottonwood, and Sedona.
See All the Winners: Best RV Campgrounds
Top Campgrounds for Tent Camping
Casini Ranch Family Campground – Duncan Mills, CA
Casini Ranch Family Campground, Duncans Mills, California
Casini Ranch Family Campground is a family-owned and operated RV park and campground, open year-round since 1965. Set among beautiful hills, the campground is just minutes from the scenic Sonoma County coastline. The 110-acre ranch rests on a gentle meander of the Russian River, giving the campground a mile of riverfront property, and offering guests a memorable camping experience. Paddle the Russ
- '24
- Canoeing / Kayaking
- Beach
- Waterfront
- Fishing
- Dog Park
- Bike Rental
- Boat Launch
- Cable TV
- Paddle Boat
- Golf Cart Rental
- Arts & Crafts
- Playground
- Ice Cream
- Basketball
- GaGa Ball
- Jumping Pillow
- Sports Field
- Volleyball
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Snack Stand
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
- Pedal Cart
- Special Events
Casini Ranch Family Campground is located just minutes from the scenic Sonoma County coastline. The 110-acre, family-owned and operated ranch boasts a wealth of activities alongside stunning views, including access to the meandering Russian River, horses, fishing, trails, jumping pillow fun, and more.
Skillet Creek Campground – Baraboo, WI
Skillet Creek Campground, Baraboo, Wisconsin
Nestled in the Baraboo, Wisconsin hills, Skillet Creek Campground sits on 70 acres of serene, natural beauty. Located one mile from Devil's Lake State Park, this campground lets you enjoy hiking, rock climbing, swimming, biking, fishing, boating or simply relaxing by the beach! Get connected with nature at Skillet Creek.
- '24
- Beach
- Fishing
- Bike Rental
- Arcade
- Arts & Crafts
- Playground
- Ice Cream
- GaGa Ball
- Jumping Pillow
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Snack Stand
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
- Pedal Cart
- Special Events
This 70-acre campground in Baraboo, Wisconsin, is just one mile from Devil’s Lake State Park. Visitors can enjoy all the hiking, rock-climbing, swimming, biking, and water sports that their hearts desire.
See All the Winners: Best Tent Campgrounds
Top Campgrounds for Glamping
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Glen Ellis – Glen, NH
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort: Glen Ellis
Find endless family fun and relaxation, from the swimming pool to the ice cream bar, at Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis! Choose between a rustic site, a riverfront site, cabins, and much more. A trip to this park isn’t complete without exploring the beautiful surrounding area. The Mt. Washington Valley is the perfect place for those who enjoy the great outdoors. There are thousands of miles of hiking
- '24
- Beach
- Waterfront
- Waterpark
- Pool
- Fishing
- Hot Tub / Sauna
- Dog Park
- Mini-Golf
- Golf Cart Rental
- Arts & Crafts
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Laser Tag
- Ice Cream
- Basketball
- GaGa Ball
- Jumping Pillow
- Sports Field
- Volleyball
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
Jellystone Park™ Glen Ellis offers tons of amenities and activities for the whole crew. It’s also the perfect basecamp to explore the gorgeous Mt. Washington Valley. Explore thousands of miles of hiking trails, hidden swimming holes, and gorgeous scenery and sports of all kinds during your stay.
Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground – Gunnison, CO
Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground
Located in Western Colorado near the town of Gunnison, Colorado's largest body of water is a must-see destination! Offering an experience that is unique to campgrounds, combining camping with an exhilarating paddle on the open water. Blue Mesa Reservoir spans 20 miles and boasts over 96 miles of shoreline. Located in the Curecanti National Recreation Area, the park offers two full-service marinas
- '24
- Canoeing / Kayaking
- Beach
- Waterfront
- Fishing
- Boat Launch
- Restaurant
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
This campground is the exclusive accommodation on Blue Mesa Reservoir in Gunnison, Colorado. Enjoy a unique, unforgettable outdoor experience for National Camping Month that combines camping with a paddle out on the open expanse.
See All the Winners: Best Glamping Campgrounds
Top Campgrounds for Families
Hoffman Lake Campground – Warsaw, IN
Hoffman Lake Campground
Discover the perfect family getaway at Hoffman Lake Campground in Warsaw, IN. Whether you're looking to kick back and relax or fill your day busy with activities, this park has something for everyone. Located on the beautiful Hoffman Lake, you can enjoy excellent fishing, a private beach, and a boat ramp. Other fun activities include a pool and splash pad, recreation hall, mini-golf, bike rentals,
- '24
- Canoeing / Kayaking
- Beach
- Waterfront
- Pool
- Fishing
- Bike Rental
- Boat Launch
- Arcade
- Mini-Golf
- Paddle Boat
- Arts & Crafts
- Playground
- Ice Cream
- Basketball
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
- Pedal Cart
- Special Events
Located on the beautiful Hoffman Lake, this campground offers activities for the whole family, including fishing, boating, pool and splash pad, mini-golf, bike rentals, and more.
Zooland Family Campground – Asheboro, NC
Zooland Family Campground, Asheboro, North Carolina
Discover the ultimate family escape at Zooland Family Campground, your gateway to adventure just a 7-minute drive from the world-renowned North Carolina Zoo! Nestled in the heart of Asheboro, NC, the campground offers a perfect blend of nature, comfort, and convenience. After a fun day visiting the sites of Asheboro, campers can enjoy Zooland's wonderful amenities, like the pool, inflatable water
- '24
- Pool
- Fishing
- Dog Park
- Arcade
- Mini-Golf
- Golf Cart Rental
- Arts & Crafts
- Playground
- Ice Cream
- Basketball
- Jumping Pillow
- Volleyball
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Laundry
- Pavilion
- Pedal Cart
- Special Events
This family campground is the perfect basecamp for all your National Camping Month adventures in Asheboro, including the world-renowned North Carolina Zoo just seven minutes away. Enjoy on-site amenities like the water park, inflatable axe-throwing, and fun planned activities and themed weekends.
See All the Winners: Top Campgrounds for Families
Check out all the 2024 Campspot Awards winners and categories for your next camping excursion during National Camping Month, and beyond.
The Benefits of Camping in the Great Outdoors
If you need a reason to pack your bags and head outdoors this National Camping Month, research shows camping offers a ton of benefits for our physical and mental well-being.
Reduced Stress and Improved Mental Health
Campspot’s recent survey found that 93% of campers feel more relaxed or mentally refreshed after camping, compared to other kinds of trips.
Enjoy the peace and relaxation that comes from spending time outdoors, especially when you experience the healing properties of being close to water, breathing in fresh air, and sleeping under the stars. The same survey found:
- 64% of campers claim nearby natural water features such as beaches, rivers, or lakes help them feel relaxed when spending time outdoors
- Campers say fresh air is the number-one element that helps them feel relaxed while outdoors
- Over half (54%) of campers say a clear view of the night sky and stars contributes to their feeling of relaxation
Physical Exercise
Whether it’s setting up a tent, hiking through trails, or gathering firewood, camping activities can help you stay active. Engaging in physical activities in a natural setting not only helps in building endurance and strength but also improves cardiovascular health. The fresh air and natural surroundings can also boost your immune system and enhance your overall physical well-being.
Bonding With Friends and Family
Sharing a campsite, cooking meals together, and participating in group activities create lasting memories and strengthen relationships. The absence of modern distractions allows for more meaningful conversations and shared experiences, fostering a sense of community.
Enhanced Creativity
Research has shown that spending time in nature can increase creativity by providing a serene environment free from the distractions and stresses of daily life. The natural surroundings stimulate the mind with diverse sights, sounds, and experiences, encouraging fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. Immersing oneself in nature also promotes mindfulness, allowing for deeper reflection and the generation of creative ideas.
Better Sleep
Growing evidence links time in nature with a resetting of our internal clocks, which can lead to better sleep. Benefit from light exposure, fresh air, and a lack of electronics for improved sleep patterns.
Affordable Vacation
Camping is an affordable vacation option compared to other types of trips. With minimal gear and fewer travel fees, you can enjoy a memorable getaway immersed in nature without the financial strain of larger, more traditional travel expenses.
Celebrate National Camping Month and Get Outside
Camping is a fantastic way to improve your health, spend quality time with loved ones, and deepen your connection with nature. Take this as your sign to plan your trip this June, and celebrate National Camping Month with a summer camping adventure!
This post was originally published in May 2023 and has been updated for freshness and comprehensiveness.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock user – NicoElNino, Adobe Stock user – dzmitrock87, Sun Outdoors Paso Robles, Verde Ranch RV Resort, Casini Ranch Family Campground, Skillet Creek Campground, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Glen Ellis, Blue Mesa Adventure Pods at Elk Creek Campground, Hoffman Lake Campground, Zooland Family Campground, Adobe Stock user – candy1812, Adobe Stock user – Azee J/peopleimages.com, Adobe Stock user – Drazen, Adobe Stock user – maxbelchenko, Adobe Stock user – Dudarev Mikhail, Adobe Stock user – Soloviova Liudmyla