Whether you prefer pitching a tent in the middle of nowhere or driving an RV to a campsite with all the amenities, there’s something undeniably special about spending time outdoors. For many of our land agents at National Land Realty, camping isn’t just a weekend escape; it’s a way to connect with the land they know and love.

From peaceful lakeside retreats to rugged mountain hideaways, we asked a few of our agents to share their favorite campsites across the country and what makes these spots worth a visit. Whether you’re planning your next family getaway or just looking for inspiration, these firsthand recommendations offer a little something for every kind of camper.

Energy Lake Campground

Located in Golden Pond, Kentucky

Indiana Land Professional Jacob Jenkins recommends Energy Lake because it is a great campsite that is clean and has friendly personnel. There are several site options available, including electric hook-ups and cabins. You can put in at Energy Lake, or right across the road that leads to the boat ramp is another boat ramp that would allow you to put in on Lake Barkley. Located within Land Between the Lakes, it offers great hunting opportunities as well as a bison and elk prairie that you can drive through for viewing. Learn more about this campground here!

Collegiate Peaks

Located outside of Buena Vista, Colorado

Kansas Land Professional Tim Vietti recommends Collegiate Peaks, but notes there are only a few spots next to the river. Book in advance for those. The site is close to great hiking, fishing, and rafting. The area spans the Gunnison, White River, and the Pike & San Isabel National Forests. There are eight “fourteeners” in the area, including Huron Peak, Missouri Mountain, Mt. Columbia, Mt. Oxford, Mt. Yale, Mt. Belford, La Plata, and Mt. Harvard. To learn more about camping in this area, click here!

Monarch Park Campground

Located in Chaffee County, Colorado

Kansas Land Professional Valorie Vietti recommends Monarch Park Campground. It’s located at a high elevation and gets cold in the evenings, making it the perfect getaway. You can enjoy a peaceful, scenic escape nestled in the San Isabel National Forest near the Continental Divide. Surrounded by towering pines and just minutes from Monarch Pass, it’s a perfect basecamp for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With cool mountain air and stunning alpine views, it’s an ideal spot to unplug and recharge. Click here to learn more about the area!

Buffalo National River

Located in North Arkansas

Alabama Land Professional Matt Horton enjoys camping at Buffalo National River in North Arkansas for its peaceful setting and endless outdoor activities. The smallmouth bass fishing is excellent, especially in the clear, winding stretches of the river. With plenty of options for float trips, scenic hikes, and primitive camping under the stars, it’s a great place to disconnect and take in the natural beauty of the Ozarks.

Camping Off Grid

Located in remote areas of Nebraska and South Dakota

Alabama Land Professional Brandon Fowler prefers off-grid camping in remote, hard-to-reach locations where solitude and rugged terrain are part of the experience. A few of his favorite spots include a secluded area just outside of Chadron, Nebraska, in the heart of the Nebraska National Forest, and the wide-open expanse of Fort Pierre National Grasslands in South Dakota, which he says is the closest he’s come to a “real campground.” Brandon notes that the wind out there never stops blowing, so come prepared and make sure your four-wheel drive works.

Center Lake Campground

Located in Custer State Park, South Dakota

Iowa and Nebraska Land Professional Jim Fleissner recommends visiting the Center Lake Campground in Custer State Park. When living in the area, from second through fourth grade, he and his family spent nearly every weekend at the lake, as long as the weather wasn’t too cold. It was there that his love for the outdoors truly began. The lake connects to the Grace Coolidge Trail, which leads to the iconic Blue Bell Lodge, home of the Custer State Park Chili Cook-off.

Along the way, the trail passes a series of small fishing ponds, offering quiet moments and great opportunities for young anglers. The surrounding area, including Custer State Park and nearby Wind Cave National Park, is rich with wildlife and natural wonder. In 2020, Jim returned to the area with his own family. His kids were big fans as they caught and cooked rainbow trout from the lake, hiked the same trail he once explored, and experienced the same simple joys from childhood.

Hill Ferry Campground

Located in Grand Rivers, Kentucky

Kentucky Land Professional Luke Biscan highly recommends Hill Ferry Campground at Land Between Lakes for families looking for a camping destination. There are numerous things for kids to do, including playgrounds, biking, disc golf, an archery range, and even swimming beaches. To learn more about visiting the campground, click here!

From tucked-away trails to well-loved state parks, these camping spots hold more than just scenic views—they’re places where memories are made and a deep appreciation for the land is renewed. Whether you’re chasing solitude, adventure, or quality time with family, there’s a campsite out there waiting for you.

At National Land Realty, our agents don’t just work the land, they live it. We hope their favorite getaways inspire your next outdoor experience and remind you why land is one of life’s greatest assets.