Imagine waking up to the melodic songs of birds chirping, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. If you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, then listen up because we’ve got just the article for you! In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best camping and glamping spots that offer unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching. Get ready to witness breathtaking species in their natural habitats, as we unveil the hidden gems that will make any bird lover’s heart flutter with excitement. So grab your binoculars, pack your camping gear, and let’s embark on an adventure of a lifetime!
National Parks
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, located in California, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife, including a vast array of bird species. This park offers incredible opportunities for birdwatching, with over 250 species of birds that call Yosemite their home. From the majestic golden eagle to the colorful western tanager, bird enthusiasts will be treated to a diverse and memorable experience. Some popular birdwatching spots within the park include Tuolumne Meadows, where you may spot the rare white-headed woodpecker, and Yosemite Valley, which offers an opportunity to observe the majestic great gray owl.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park in Florida is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting an impressive 350 species of birds. This vast and unique wetland ecosystem provides a habitat for countless migratory and resident bird species. Birdwatchers can explore the park’s various habitats, including freshwater marshes, mangroves, and cypress swamps, to spot a diverse range of feathered friends. Keep an eye out for the iconic roseate spoonbill, the striking purple gallinule, and the elusive snail kite. The park offers guided birdwatching tours and informative ranger programs to enhance your birding experience.
Grand Teton National Park
Situated in Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park offers awe-inspiring mountain vistas and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Birdwatching in this picturesque park is a treat, with over 300 species of birds recorded. From the dazzling western bluebird to the regal bald eagle, birders will have plenty to marvel at during their visit. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including alpine meadows, forests, and lakeshores, for opportunities to spot birds like the calliope hummingbird and the vibrant mountain bluebird. Join a guided birdwalk or embark on a scenic hike to enhance your birdwatching adventure.
Olympic National Park
Nestled in the state of Washington, Olympic National Park is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatching enthusiasts alike. This incredibly diverse park boasts a rich variety of bird species, with over 300 recorded sightings. Whether you’re exploring the park’s towering old-growth forests, picturesque coastline, or rugged mountain ranges, you’re bound to encounter an array of fascinating birds. Look out for magnificent species such as the northern spotted owl, the elusive marbled murrelet, and the striking western tanager. The park offers ranger-led birdwatching programs and informative brochures to ensure an enriching birding experience for visitors.
State Parks
Big Bend Ranch State Park
Located in Texas, Big Bend Ranch State Park offers a unique and remote camping experience for birdwatching enthusiasts. With its vast desert landscapes and rugged canyons, this park is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the threatened golden-cheeked warbler and the iconic roadrunner. Set up camp in one of the park’s primitive campsites and wake up to the melodic songs of birds as they flit through the desert vegetation. Hiking trails within the park give you the opportunity to explore different habitats and increase your chances of spotting unique bird species during your camping adventure.
Cape Disappointment State Park
Situated in Washington, Cape Disappointment State Park offers an enchanting coastal setting for birdwatchers to enjoy. The park’s diverse habitats, including saltwater marshes, forested areas, and coastal dunes, attract numerous bird species throughout the year. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of seabirds, waterfowl, and shorebirds along the park’s scenic shoreline. Keep an eye out for the elegant great blue heron, the graceful black oystercatcher, and the charismatic tufted puffin. Camping at Cape Disappointment State Park allows bird enthusiasts to wake up to the soothing sounds of waves crashing and birds soaring overhead.
Custer State Park
Nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park is a true haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. This expansive park hosts a diverse range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and shimmering lakes, attracting a plethora of bird species. While exploring the park’s hiking trails or scenic drives, keep an eye out for magnificent raptors like the bald eagle and the ferruginous hawk. Songbirds such as the western meadowlark and the varied thrush add vibrant melodies to the park’s serene ambiance. Camping within the park allows for uninterrupted sunrise serenades and an opportunity to observe these feathered wonders up close.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, offers a unique camping experience surrounded by the stunning beauty of the second-largest canyon in the United States. This dramatic canyon landscape provides a habitat for various bird species, attracting birdwatchers from far and wide. Explore the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks to spot birds such as the vibrant vermilion flycatcher and the majestic golden eagle soaring above the canyon walls. Camping in Palo Duro Canyon State Park allows you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the symphony of bird calls echoing through the canyon.
Private Campgrounds
Malibu Beach RV Park
If you’re looking for a beachfront camping experience in sunny California, Malibu Beach RV Park is the perfect destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Nestled along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, this private campground offers stunning ocean views and a chance to spot coastal bird species. Wake up to the soothing sound of waves crashing and keep an eye out for seabirds such as the elegant black skimmer and the charismatic brown pelican. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or set up your binoculars at one of the designated birdwatching areas within the campground to enhance your birdwatching experience.
Bluewater Key RV Resort
Located in the beautiful Florida Keys, Bluewater Key RV Resort offers a luxurious and picturesque camping experience for birdwatchers seeking a coastal escape. This private resort boasts spacious waterfront lots surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, providing an ideal setting for birdwatching. Explore the resort’s grounds and neighboring mangroves to spot a variety of bird species, including wading birds like the striking roseate spoonbill and the vibrant purple gallinule. Enjoy the tranquility of the resort while observing these feathered wonders in their natural habitat, making for a truly unforgettable birdwatching getaway.
Campland on the Bay
Situated on the shores of Mission Bay in San Diego, California, Campland on the Bay offers a family-friendly camping experience with abundant birdwatching opportunities. This private campground provides a unique blend of beachfront access and serene wetland areas, attracting a diverse range of bird species. Explore the campground’s nature trails and waterfront boardwalks to spot birds such as the colorful western bluebird and the elegant great egret. Join one of the organized birdwatching tours or simply relax by your campsite, enjoying the delightful sights and sounds of birds while being surrounded by beautiful coastal scenery.
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages
Crystal Cove Beach Cottages, located in Orange County, California, offer a charming and historic beachfront camping experience within Crystal Cove State Park. Nestled along a pristine stretch of coastline, this private campground allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature while having close access to birdwatching opportunities. Explore the park’s sandy beaches, tide pools, and coastal bluff trails to spot a wide array of coastal bird species. Keep an eye out for the lively seaside sparrow and the striking black oystercatcher as they forage along the shore. Camping at Crystal Cove Beach Cottages provides a serene and picturesque setting for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Glamping Retreats
Under Canvas Yellowstone
For those seeking a luxurious birdwatching experience amidst the wilderness, Under Canvas Yellowstone in Montana offers a unique glamping retreat. Set just minutes away from the iconic Yellowstone National Park, this retreat provides the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and observe a variety of bird species. Wake up to the sounds of birdsong in your cozy canvas tent and venture out into the vast wilderness of the park. Keep an eye out for avian treasures such as the charismatic mountain bluebird and the elusive northern pygmy owl. Join guided birdwatching tours or explore the park’s scenic trails on your own for an unforgettable birdwatching adventure.
The Resort at Paws Up
Located in the heart of Montana’s Big Sky Country, The Resort at Paws Up offers a luxurious glamping retreat with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Surrounded by breathtaking views of mountains and meadows, this resort provides a peaceful setting for encountering a variety of bird species. Explore the resort’s expansive property on guided birdwalks, where you may spot the magnificent trumpeter swan or the regal bald eagle. The tranquil ponds and flowing rivers within the resort provide ideal habitats for water-loving birds like the colorful wood duck and the graceful great blue heron. Indulge in the lavish amenities of the resort while immersing yourself in the wonders of birdwatching.
Treebones Resort
Nestled along the scenic Big Sur coastline of California, Treebones Resort offers a unique glamping experience amidst nature’s splendor. This eco-lodge resort combines rustic charm with modern comforts, providing a tranquil setting for birdwatching enthusiasts. As you wake up in your cozy yurt or nestle in your luxurious ocean-view nest, listen to the melodies of birds such as the charismatic black-headed grosbeak and the vibrant Anna’s hummingbird. Explore the nearby forests and coastal cliffs to observe a diverse range of bird species in their natural habitat. Treebones Resort offers a serene and eco-friendly retreat, perfect for experiencing the wonders of birdwatching.
Sinya on Lone Man Creek
Tucked away in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, Sinya on Lone Man Creek offers a secluded glamping retreat with ample birdwatching opportunities. This luxury safari tent experience provides a chance to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in nature while observing a variety of bird species. Wake up to the melodious chirping of birds such as the colorful painted bunting and the energetic Carolina wren. Take a leisurely stroll along the tranquil creek or simply relax on your private deck, keeping your binoculars handy for sightings of vibrant birds in the surrounding trees. Sinya on Lone Man Creek offers a peaceful and immersive birdwatching retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Beachfront Camping
Assateague State Park (Maryland)
Assateague State Park, located on the barrier island of Assateague off the coast of Maryland, offers a unique beachfront camping experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This pristine coastal park is renowned for its wild ponies and diverse birdlife. Set up camp just steps away from the sandy beaches, where you can observe a variety of shorebirds and seabirds. Watch as the elegant great egret patiently stalks its prey or catch a glimpse of the charismatic piping plover as it scurries along the shore. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the park and witness the seamless harmony between the ponies and the avian inhabitants.
Malibu Creek State Park (California)
Malibu Creek State Park, located in the Santa Monica Mountains of California, provides a stunning beachfront camping experience combined with excellent birdwatching opportunities. Nestled in a scenic canyon, this park offers a diverse range of habitats, including oak woodlands and riparian areas, attracting numerous bird species. Explore the park’s hiking trails or set up your binoculars near the creek to spot birds such as the vibrant western tanager and the elusive belted kingfisher. Enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water and bird calls while camping along the creek, creating a peaceful and immersive birdwatching experience.
Kiptopeke State Park (Virginia)
Situated on the eastern shore of Virginia, Kiptopeke State Park offers an idyllic beachfront camping experience with abundant birdwatching opportunities. This coastal park serves as an important stopover for migratory birds, making it a prime location for observing a wide variety of species. Set up camp near the beach and witness the impressive spectacle of birds as they gather along the shoreline during migration. Look out for migratory species such as the colorful warblers and the majestic peregrine falcon. With the refreshing ocean breeze and the captivating avian activity, camping at Kiptopeke State Park is a birdwatching adventure not to be missed.
Padre Island National Seashore (Texas)
Padre Island National Seashore, located along the Gulf of Mexico in Texas, offers a pristine and expansive beachfront camping experience for birdwatching enthusiasts. This barrier island ecosystem provides a crucial habitat for a diverse range of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Set up camp on the sandy shores and witness the incredible diversity of shorebirds, waterfowl, and seabirds that call this national seashore home. Keep an eye out for the elegant American oystercatcher and the striking reddish egret as they forage along the shoreline. Camping at Padre Island National Seashore allows for a serene and unforgettable birdwatching experience within a breathtaking coastal setting.
Mountain Camping
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spanning across Tennessee and North Carolina, offers an enchanting mountain camping experience with abundant birdwatching opportunities. This UNESCO World Heritage site hosts a remarkable diversity of bird species, with over 240 recorded sightings. As you set up camp in the heart of the mountains, listen to the melodies of birds such as the enchanting wood thrush and the vibrant scarlet tanager. Explore the park’s numerous hiking trails and scenic drives to spot a variety of birds, including the elusive Swainson’s warbler and the majestic peregrine falcon. Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains allows for an immersive and rewarding birdwatching adventure.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado offers a captivating mountain camping experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and an array of bird species. This alpine paradise provides ideal habitats for many bird species, including high-elevation specialists like the white-tailed ptarmigan and the charismatic black rosy-finch. Set up camp amidst the towering peaks and scenic lakes, and wake up to the graceful flights of birds such as the mountain bluebird and the exquisite golden eagle. Explore the park’s hiking trails, where you may encounter elusive species like the black swift and the American three-toed woodpecker. Camping in Rocky Mountain National Park allows for an unforgettable birdwatching experience in the heart of nature.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park, located in Washington state, offers a serene mountain camping experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Surrounded by the majestic presence of Mount Rainier, this park boasts diverse habitats ranging from old-growth forests to subalpine meadows, attracting a rich variety of bird species. As you set up camp within the park’s tranquil wilderness, keep an eye out for birds such as the magnificent northern goshawk and the colorful western tanager. Embark on hiking trails that wind through the park’s unique ecosystems and witness birds like the charismatic American dipper and the elusive great gray owl. Camping in Mount Rainier National Park allows for an immersive birdwatching adventure in a captivating mountainous setting.
White Mountain National Forest
White Mountain National Forest, located in New Hampshire and Maine, offers a scenic mountain camping experience with excellent birdwatching opportunities. This expansive forested area is home to a variety of habitats, including boreal forests, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. As you set up camp amidst the towering peaks, listen to the enchanting songs of birds such as the charming black-capped chickadee and the melodious hermit thrush. Explore hiking trails that wind through the forest, where you may encounter species like the striking boreal owl and the regal spruce grouse. Camping in White Mountain National Forest allows for a peaceful and immersive birdwatching experience in the heart of nature.
Lake Camping
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake National Park, located in Oregon, offers a spectacular lake camping experience combined with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Set within the caldera of an ancient volcano, Crater Lake is a pristine and awe-inspiring natural wonder. As you set up camp near the lake’s edge, keep an eye out for birds such as the iconic osprey and the majestic bald eagle soaring above the crystal-clear waters. Explore the park’s scenic trails that wind through evergreen forests and offer stunning views of the lake, where you may spot species like the lively Clark’s nutcracker and the vibrant western tanager. Camping near Crater Lake allows for an unforgettable birdwatching experience amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Lake Tahoe (California & Nevada)
Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, offers a picturesque and serene lake camping experience with abundant birdwatching opportunities. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and tall pine forests, this stunning alpine lake is a haven for a diverse range of bird species. Set up camp along the lake’s shoreline and witness the aerial acrobatics of species such as the graceful cliff swallow and the elegant common loon. Explore the hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forests, where you may encounter birds like the colorful mountain bluebird and the charismatic American dipper. Camping near Lake Tahoe provides a tranquil and picturesque setting for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Flathead Lake (Montana)
Flathead Lake in Montana offers a tranquil lake camping experience combined with remarkable birdwatching opportunities. This pristine lake, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, serves as a critical habitat for a diverse array of bird species. As you settle into your lakeside campsite, keep an eye out for avian treasures such as the vibrant western grebe and the majestic bald eagle. Explore the surrounding shoreline areas or embark on a kayak adventure to observe water-loving birds like the graceful great blue heron and the colorful American white pelican. Camping near Flathead Lake allows for a peaceful and immersive birdwatching experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Lake Clark National Park
Lake Clark National Park in Alaska offers a remote and captivating lake camping experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This expansive park is home to numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands, providing ideal habitats for an abundance of bird species. Set up camp near one of the park’s pristine lakes and witness a variety of avian activity throughout the day. Keep an eye out for species such as the charismatic bald eagle and the striking red-necked grebe. Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from boreal forests to tundra, and encounter birds like the colorful arctic tern and the elusive spotted sandpiper. Camping near Lake Clark allows for an unforgettable birdwatching adventure in Alaska’s untamed wilderness.
Forest Camping
Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks, spanning across California and offering a unique forest camping experience, are a birdwatcher’s paradise. These majestic parks are home to towering ancient redwood trees and an incredible array of bird species. As you set up camp amidst the tranquility of the forest, listen to the enchanting melodies of birds such as the vibrant western tanager and the charismatic pileated woodpecker. Explore the park’s scenic trails that wind through old-growth forests, providing excellent opportunities to spot the elusive marbled murrelet and the elegant northern spotted owl. Camping in Redwood National and State Parks allows for an immersive birdwatching experience in a truly magnificent setting.
Tongass National Forest (Alaska)
Tongass National Forest in Alaska offers a pristine forest camping experience with unmatched birdwatching opportunities. As the largest national forest in the United States, it encompasses a vast area of towering coastal rainforests, glaciers, and fjords. This incredibly diverse habitat attracts a remarkable variety of bird species, both resident and migratory. Set up camp within the forest and wake up to the lively songs of birds such as the charismatic varied thrush and the vibrant yellow warbler. Explore the forest’s hiking trails and secluded wilderness areas to encounter birds like the striking rufous hummingbird and the elusive northern pygmy owl. Camping in Tongass National Forest provides a captivating and immersive birdwatching adventure in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.
Francis Marion National Forest (South Carolina)
Francis Marion National Forest in South Carolina offers a tranquil forest camping experience with excellent birdwatching opportunities. This expansive forested area, stretching across the coastal plain, provides a haven for a diverse range of bird species. As you set up camp beneath the towering trees, listen to the melodious calls of birds such as the charming Carolina chickadee and the vibrant painted bunting. Explore the forest’s hiking and biking trails, where you may encounter species like the elusive prothonotary warbler and the elegant great egret. Camping in Francis Marion National Forest allows for a peaceful and immersive birdwatching experience amidst nature’s serenity.
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
George Washington & Jefferson National Forest in Virginia and West Virginia offers a picturesque forest camping experience combined with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Encompassing over 1.8 million acres, this forested haven hosts numerous bird species across a variety of habitats. As you set up camp within the forested landscapes, keep an eye out for birds such as the striking scarlet tanager and the captivating blackburnian warbler. Explore the park’s extensive trail network, leading you through diverse ecosystems where you may encounter species like the elusive cerulean warbler and the vibrant Baltimore oriole. Camping in George Washington & Jefferson National Forest allows for a rewarding birdwatching adventure in a pristine and tranquil setting.
Desert Camping
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (California)
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in California provides a unique desert camping experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This expansive desert park encompasses diverse habitats, including palm oases, slot canyons, and rugged badlands, offering a plethora of avian species to observe. As you set up camp amidst the desert tranquility, listen for the distinctive songs of birds such as the charming cactus wren and the colorful verdin. Explore the park’s hiking trails and scenic overlooks to spot species like the majestic golden eagle and the elusive roadrunner. Camping in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park allows for an immersive birdwatching experience in a captivating desert environment.
Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Joshua Tree National Park in California offers a unique desert camping experience combined with remarkable birdwatching opportunities. This iconic national park is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes and distinctive Joshua trees, providing an ideal habitat for a variety of bird species. As you set up camp amidst the rocky desert terrain, keep an eye out for birds such as the charismatic Gambel’s quail and the striking greater roadrunner. Explore the park’s hiking trails and scenic viewpoints to encounter avian treasures like the colorful desert sparrow and the regal prairie falcon. Camping in Joshua Tree National Park allows for an unforgettable birdwatching adventure amidst otherworldly beauty.
Big Bend National Park (Texas)
Big Bend National Park in Texas offers an enchanting desert camping experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This vast and diverse desert park is teeming with avian life, attracting birdwatchers from near and far. As you set up camp amidst the rugged Chisos Mountains or along the banks of the Rio Grande, observe the incredible diversity of bird species that call this desert oasis their home. Look out for birds such as the vibrant painted bunting and the captivating vermilion flycatcher as they navigate the park’s diverse desert ecosystems. Camping in Big Bend National Park provides an immersive birdwatching experience in a truly unique and awe-inspiring desert landscape.
Saguaro National Park (Arizona)
Saguaro National Park in Arizona offers a captivating desert camping experience with excellent birdwatching opportunities. This park is home to thousands of majestic saguaro cacti, providing a unique habitat for a variety of bird species. As you set up camp amidst the towering cacti, listen to the lively songs of birds such as the melodious curve-billed thrasher and the charismatic Gila woodpecker. Explore the park’s hiking trails and scenic drives to spot species like the vibrant vermilion flycatcher and the elegant black-throated sparrow. Camping in Saguaro National Park allows for an immersive birdwatching experience in the midst of a striking desert landscape.
Island Camping
Channel Islands National Park (California)
Channel Islands National Park, located off the coast of Southern California, offers a unique island camping experience with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This pristine archipelago is home to a remarkable diversity of bird species, including several endemic ones. As you set up camp on one of the park’s islands, listen to the calls of seabirds such as the majestic California brown pelican and the colorful tufted puffin. Explore the islands’ rugged coastlines and hiking trails to encounter unique bird species like the charismatic island scrub-jay and the elusive Xantus’s murrelet. Camping in Channel Islands National Park allows for an unforgettable birdwatching adventure in a picturesque island setting.
Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)
Dry Tortugas National Park, located off the coast of Key West, Florida, offers a secluded island camping experience filled with exceptional birdwatching opportunities. This remote and pristine park is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson, providing a captivating backdrop for birdwatchers. Set up camp on Garden Key, the main island within the park, and witness the incredible birdlife that thrives in this coastal paradise. Keep an eye out for birds such as the lively sooty tern and the graceful brown noddy as they nest on the sandy shores. Camping on Dry Tortugas National Park allows for an exclusive and awe-inspiring birdwatching experience unlike any other.
San Juan Islands (Washington)
The San Juan Islands in Washington state offer a serene island camping experience with remarkable birdwatching opportunities. This archipelago is known for its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and diverse bird species. As you set up camp on one of the islands, listen for the soothing calls of birds such as the elegant bald eagle and the charismatic black oystercatcher. Explore the islands’ picturesque trails and coastal areas to encounter species like the charming rhinoceros auklet and the vibrant Harlequin duck. Camping in the San Juan Islands provides a peaceful and immersive birdwatching experience amidst the stunning coastal landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.
Prince Edward Island National Park (Canada)
Prince Edward Island National Park, located in Canada’s eastern province of Prince Edward Island, offers a charming island camping experience with excellent birdwatching opportunities. This picturesque park is known for its stunning coastlines, sand dunes, and diverse birdlife. Set up camp near the shoreline and listen for the songs of birds such as the melodious hermit thrush and the regal snowy owl. Explore the park’s sandy beaches and coastal trails to encounter species like the vibrant common eider and the elusive piping plover. Camping in Prince Edward Island National Park allows for a tranquil and rewarding birdwatching adventure amidst the beauty of Canada’s maritime province.
In conclusion, whether you prefer camping in national parks, state parks, private campgrounds, glamping retreats, beachfront locations, mountainous landscapes, lakeside settings, forested areas, desert oases, or on picturesque islands, there are countless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to connect with nature and observe a diverse range of bird species. Each destination offers its own unique blend of natural beauty, bird habitats, and camping experiences, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for all birdwatching enthusiasts. So pack your binoculars, pitch your tent, or indulge in a luxurious glamping retreat, and embark on a bird-filled journey to these remarkable camping and glamping spots. Happy birdwatching!
