The Ultimate Guide to America’s Most Jaw-Dropping Backcountry Campsites (You Won’t Believe #3!)

The Ultimate Guide to America’s Most Jaw-Dropping Backcountry Campsites

(You Won’t Believe #3!)

Ever dreamed of waking up to a sunrise that paints mountain peaks in gold, or falling asleep under a blanket of stars so bright you could almost touch them? Welcome to the world of backcountry camping, my friend.

Why You Need to Ditch the RV and Embrace the Wild

Backcountry camping isn’t just about pitching a tent in the middle of nowhere. It’s about immersing yourself in nature’s raw beauty, far from the crowds and comforts of developed campsites.

I remember my first backcountry trip in Glacier National Park. As I hiked up to Lake Ellen Wilson, my legs burning and lungs gasping, I wondered if I’d made a huge mistake. But then I crested the final ridge and saw that turquoise water nestled beneath towering peaks. In that moment, I knew I was hooked.

The benefits of backcountry camping go beyond just pretty views:

• Solitude that recharges your soul
• A deep connection with nature you can’t get from a car window
• Physical and mental challenges that make you feel alive

But before you grab your pack and head for the hills, let’s talk prep.

The One Thing That Could Ruin Your Trip (And How to Avoid It)

Nothing kills a backcountry adventure faster than forgetting a crucial piece of gear or running afoul of park regulations. Trust me, I’ve been there.

First things first: permits. Many popular backcountry areas require them, and they can be harder to snag than front-row concert tickets. Start planning early, folks.

Next up: safety. Mother Nature doesn’t mess around, and neither should you.

Essential safety considerations:

• Wildlife encounters (yes, that includes bears)
• Unpredictable weather
• Challenging terrain

Pack smart, and pack right. Your life might depend on it.

Must-have gear:

• Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
• First aid kit
• Emergency shelter
• Water filtration system
• High-energy food

5 Campsites That’ll Make Your Instagram Followers Drool

1. Denali National Park, Alaska: Upper Teklanika River

Imagine waking up to the sight of North America’s tallest peak, surrounded by wildflowers and the occasional caribou. That’s what you get at Upper Teklanika River in Denali’s Backcountry Unit 6.

Pro tip: Access via the riverbed to avoid bushwhacking. Your legs (and sanity) will thank you.

2. Glacier National Park, Montana: Lake Ellen Wilson

Remember that life-changing view? This is it. Classic Glacier scenery with pebbled beaches, waterfalls, and glaciers that look like they’re straight out of a fantasy novel.

Hike in from the Gunsight Pass trailhead, and if you’re feeling ambitious, continue on to Lake McDonald for an epic multi-day trek.

3. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming: Death Canyon Shelf

Don’t let the name scare you off. This spot offers sweeping panoramas of the Tetons that’ll take your breath away (in a good way). Plus, you might spot some local wildlife like moose or bighorn sheep.

4. Zion National Park, Utah: Cottonwood Camp

Red rock formations, hidden springs, and a chance to see one of the world’s largest natural arches? Sign me up. Cottonwood Camp puts you right in the heart of Zion’s backcountry paradise.

Bonus: Shade trees provide a welcome respite from the desert sun.

5. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado: Thunder Lake

Alpine meadows, hidden cirques, and the chance to summit Tanima Peak make Thunder Lake a backcountry camper’s dream. Plus, you can literally camp on the banks of the lake. Talk about room with a view!

The Secret Ingredient to Unforgettable Backcountry Adventures

What sets these campsites apart isn’t just the scenery (though that’s pretty spectacular). It’s the activities and experiences they offer.

Mountain views that’ll make your jaw drop:

• Denali’s snow-capped peak
• The jagged Tetons piercing the sky
• Glacier’s namesake ice fields

Lakes and rivers that put your backyard pool to shame:

• The turquoise waters of Cracker Lake in Glacier
• The meandering Upper Teklanika in Denali
• The thundering cascades near Lake Ellen Wilson

Canyons and rock formations that defy belief:

• Zion’s towering sandstone cliffs
• The layered walls of the Grand Canyon

But the real magic happens when you lace up your boots and hit the trails.

Here are some of the incredible experiences waiting for you on the trail:

• Summiting Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park
• Descending into the Grand Canyon’s depths
• Exploring hidden slot canyons in Zion

But it’s not just about the big moments. Sometimes the magic is in the quiet details:

• The way alpenglow paints the mountains at sunset
• Finding a patch of wild huckleberries
• Spotting a marmot sunbathing on a rock

I’ll never forget watching a moose and her calf graze in a meadow near Thunder Lake. We locked eyes for a moment, and I felt a connection to the wild I’d never experienced before.

The Ultimate Backcountry Hack That’ll Change Your Life

Want to know the secret to truly unforgettable backcountry trips? It’s not fancy gear or insider knowledge (though those help). It’s mindset.

Approach each adventure with curiosity and openness. Be willing to embrace discomfort and uncertainty. That’s where the real growth happens.

On a trip to Denali, our carefully planned route was blocked by a swollen river. Initially frustrated, we had to improvise. That detour led us to a hidden valley filled with caribou that became the highlight of our trip.

Remember: The backcountry doesn’t care about your itinerary. Roll with the punches and you’ll discover experiences you never even knew to seek out.

How to Avoid Being “That Guy” in the Backcountry

With more people discovering the joys of backcountry camping, it’s crucial we all do our part to protect these wild places. Enter Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors

It’s not just about following rules. It’s about fostering a mindset of stewardship. We’re guests in these wild places, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they remain pristine for future generations.

The One Thing You Must Do Before Your Next Backcountry Trip

Before you lace up those boots, there’s one crucial step: education.

Take a wilderness first aid course. Learn about the specific challenges of your chosen destination. Practice using your gear before you’re miles from civilization.

Knowledge is the ultimate ultralight gear. It doesn’t weigh a thing, but it could save your life.

Resources to level up your backcountry game:

• REI’s outdoor classes and events
• National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) courses
• Local hiking and mountaineering clubs

The Final Word on America’s Most Epic Backcountry Campsites

From the towering peaks of Denali to the red rock canyons of Zion, America’s backcountry offers a lifetime of adventure. But remember, it’s not a competition. The “best” campsite is the one that speaks to your soul.

So grab your pack, lace up your boots, and get out there. The wilderness is calling, and those jaw-dropping campsites are waiting to be discovered. Just don’t forget to leave them better than you found them.

Your next great backcountry adventure starts with a single step. What are you waiting for?