When it comes to camping, you cannot beat the summertime. You can enjoy the fresh open air, bask in the glorious sun, and marvel at the beautiful scenery. Best of all? There are plenty of campgrounds to discover in the region. So, it’s easy to find one that is both accessible and fun to experience.
However, going camping during the summer is even better on an electric bike. The power of the electric motor helps you do all sorts of things. Climb steep hills, navigate rough terrain, and access remote fishing spots, to name a few.. Plus, their rugged frames make them highly durable.
Read on to learn about the best summer campgrounds. We’ll also discuss what gear you should bring and how to stay safe.
Best Summer Camping Destinations
The US has plenty of campgrounds to discover. Although convenient, this can make it hard to know where to start. In this summer camping guide, we’ll show you some of the best summer campgrounds in the US. Ready? Let’s get into it.
Best National Park – Cleveland National Forest (San Diego, California)
Cleveland National Forest is one of the best campgrounds in California. It covers over 460,000 acres of land. It has vast rolling hills, fresh green mountains, and dense vegetation. And it hosts a wide range of recreational activities, such as fishing, hiking, and cycling.
While the site has no rental cabins, there are plenty of remote camping spots. You can stay for up to two weeks in a row (14 consecutive days). All three ranger districts offer space for remote camping. You can even organize a group camping expedition with up to 70 people. Or you can travel light with just family and friends.
Best Beach or Coastal Camping – Kalaloch Campground (Forks, Washington)
Kalaloch Campground is a popular camping ground in Forks, Washington. It is set on the southwest part of the Olympic Peninsula, near the coast. Featuring up to 160 campsites, each one offers stunning views of Ruby Beach and the surrounding area.
Each campsite also has restrooms, food lockers, and access to drinking water. They also have other amenities, such as campfire rings and picnic furniture. This makes it easy to dine in comfort and socialize by the warmth of the fire.
Best Mountain Base Camp – Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping (Jackson, Wyoming)
Set in Jackson, Wyoming, Shadow Mountain Dispersed Camping is one of the region’s most popular campsites.
Shadow Mountain offers an authentic camping experience. Each campsite has minimal onsite amenities, so be sure to bring the right camping gear and essentials. The good news is that campground officials scout the region often. Ask them for friendly tips and advice, especially related to wildlife safety.
Got an electric bike? Bring it along for the journey. Shadow Mountain has many multi-purpose trails that allow the use of electric bikes. Harness the power of the electric motor to reach your destination quickly and safely. Then use it to explore the area during the day time.
Best Riverfront Campground – Potts Reserve (Citrus County, Florida)
Consisting of 8,500 acres of land, Potts Reserve is an excellent riverfront campground. Set in Citrus County, Florida, it is managed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD).
Potts Reserve has free camping spots, but you must register to secure a spot. It also has around 30 miles of hiking trails. Nine of these trails are multi-purpose which allow hiking, cycling, and even horse riding.
With these multi-purpose trails, you can use an Ebike to explore hard-to-reach destinations throughout Potts Reserve, like remote fishing spots. It’s no surprise that Potts Reserve is one of the best fishing spots in Florida. Fishing is permitted year-round, so bring your Florida fishing license and necessary gear, and you’re good to go.
Best Desert Camping – Kodachrome Basin State Park (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Kodachrome Basin State Park is unique for its beautiful imagery. It was named by the National Geographic Society in 1949 based on the red-tinged rock formations and bright blue skies. The vivid contrast between the red ground and the blue sky makes for many stunning backdrops. This effect is further enhanced by the dramatic rock formations, which stem straight out of the ground as tall towers.
Kodachrome has three campgrounds. They all support vehicle and RV camping, with a max of two vehicles per campsite. Only the Basin Campground supports tent camping, but each campsite offers basic amenities such as fire rings, tables, vault taps, showers, and water taps.
FURTHER READING: Complete RV Checklist for First-Time Campers
Essential Gear for Summer Camping Trips
When summer camping, keep in mind the fluctuating temperatures. While the days can be incredibly hot, the evenings can be surprisingly cold. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are also commonplace in some parts of the US during summer. Be sure to plan ahead by bringing the correct gear and clothing.
- Clothing – Wear lightweight, moisture wicking clothing and fast-drying bottoms. Effective moisture-wicking fabrics include polyster and nylon. The former is durable and lightweight, while the latter is stretchy and mildew-resistant; both are quick-drying materials. Look into UV protection clothing with an SPF rating of at least 50 or more.
- Tents and tarp – Choose a tent that helps you keep cool in the day and is large enough to support all guests. Summer tents have mesh panels and large screens to provide ventilation and airflow. You can also place a reflective shade over the tent, to bounce off the sunlight. If you expect wet weather, use a waterproof tarp to ensure a guaranteed waterproof seal.
- Cookwear – Bring portable cookwear such as small frying pans, skillets, and camp stove tops. Camp stove tops are easy to carry, wind resistant, and easy to keep burning with portable fuel. Also, remember to bring utensils and cutlery, such as knives for cutting ingredients.
- Food containers – Bring plenty of airtight containers to store and pack away food. This will help stop attracting dangerous wildlife to your campsite. You’ll also have an easier time cleaning up the campsite before you leave.
- Navigation gear – When remote camping, you may not have access to phone reception. This is why it’s a good idea to bring non-electric navigational instruments. For example, physical maps and compasses. Draw your route out on the map, so you can track your progress and spot landmarks. Use the compass to track your cardinal directions, so you can quickly get your bearings.
You should also prepare your electric bike accordingly. This essential bikepacking gear checklist has everything you need to know about prepping your e-bike. Use it to your advantage leading up to your next summer camping trip.
Summer Camping Safety Tips You Cannot Ignore
Camping is a fun and engaging activity but also prone to risks. Some effective ways to stay safe while summer camping include:
- Wearing lightweight, breathable, and UV-rated clothing to protect yourself from the sun
- Notifying friends and family of your camping plans, including your location and return date
- Planning for cold evenings and harsh weather
- Packing and store food straight away so as to not attract wildlife
- Using insect protection to keep bugs at bay
- Staying hydrated by bringing water bottles and water bladdes for sipping on the go
Ride Into Summer With Heybike
Summer camping is the perfect way to relax and unwind. And the experience is even better with an electric bike. The power of the electric motor and the long-range battery lets you overcome tough challenges and ride further. And with less physical effort, too.
Ready to elevate your summer camping experience? Upgrade to an electric bike with Heybike today.
