Imagine the perfect camping trip where you can fish to your heart’s content and enjoy a variety of water activities. You dream of waking up to the calming sound of waves lapping against the shore and spending lazy afternoons casting your line into clear blue waters. Look no further, as this article will guide you through the best camping spots for fishing and water activities. Get ready to immerse yourself in nature and create unforgettable memories in these picturesque locations.
1. National Parks
1.1 Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in Wyoming, is a true masterpiece of nature. With its stunning landscapes, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife, it offers a unique camping experience. The park is famous for its fishing opportunities, with numerous lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with trout and other fish species. Whether you’re fishing on the Yellowstone River or trying your luck at one of the park’s pristine lakes, you’re guaranteed a memorable angling adventure. Additionally, water activities such as kayaking and rafting can be enjoyed on the park’s rivers and lakes. Yellowstone National Park truly provides an incredible combination of natural wonders and aquatic delights.
1.2 Everglades National Park
For a one-of-a-kind camping experience, look no further than Everglades National Park in Florida. This unique ecosystem is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, offering an abundance of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. From casting a line into the park’s countless canals, rivers, and lakes to embarking on a deep-sea fishing expedition in the Gulf of Mexico, the options are endless. The park is renowned for its diverse fish species, including snook, tarpon, and redfish. Additionally, water activities such as kayaking and canoeing allow you to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Everglades’ waterways. Camping at Everglades National Park guarantees both angling adventures and unforgettable aquatic experiences.
1.3 Glacier National Park
Nestled in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains of Montana, Glacier National Park is a true gem. It offers a multitude of camping opportunities surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Fishing enthusiasts will be thrilled by the park’s abundant fish population, with over 700 lakes and numerous rivers to explore. From fly fishing for native cutthroat trout in crystal-clear mountain streams to casting for lake trout in the park’s vast lakes, there’s a fishing challenge for everyone. Furthermore, the park’s serene lakes and rivers provide an idyllic setting for water activities such as boating and paddleboarding. Camping at Glacier National Park allows you to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and indulge in thrilling fishing and water adventures.
2. State Parks
2.1 Devil’s Lake State Park
Located in Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a camping experience filled with fishing and water activities. The park’s centerpiece is Devil’s Lake, a stunning 360-acre lake surrounded by towering cliffs and lush forests. Anglers can cast their lines in search of a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, northern pike, and panfish. Fishing from shore or venturing out onto the tranquil waters in a boat or kayak are both excellent options. Water activities such as swimming, boating, and paddleboarding are also popular among visitors. Devil’s Lake State Park offers a picturesque setting for camping and promises endless fun in and on the water.
2.2 Percy Quin State Park
For a fishing and water activity paradise in the heart of Mississippi, look no further than Percy Quin State Park. This beautiful park boasts a stunning 700-acre lake, Lake Tangipahoa, which is teeming with bass, crappie, and catfish. Anglers can enjoy fishing from the shore, piers, or their own boats. The lake also offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and water skiing, allowing visitors to fully embrace the joys of the water. With its serene natural surroundings and abundant recreational opportunities, Percy Quin State Park is a top choice for camping enthusiasts seeking fishing and water adventures.
2.3 Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Kentucky, Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park offers a tranquil setting for camping, fishing, and water activities. The park’s crowning jewel is Pennyrile Lake, a 56-acre lake known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can try their luck catching largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish from the lake’s shores or while boating on its peaceful waters. Canoeing and kayaking are popular water activities, allowing visitors to explore the lake’s nooks and crannies while being surrounded by the park’s natural beauty. Camping at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park provides a perfect escape for fishing enthusiasts and water lovers alike.
3. Lakes
3.1 Lake Tahoe
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, straddling the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination for camping, fishing, and water activities. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe offer a myriad of fishing opportunities, with an abundance of trout, salmon, and bass waiting to be caught. The lake is renowned for its trophy-sized fish, making it a dream come true for passionate anglers. Additionally, water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating are incredibly popular on Lake Tahoe. With its breathtaking scenery, pristine waters, and diverse recreational opportunities, Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for those seeking fishing and water adventures.
3.2 Lake of the Ozarks
Located in central Missouri, Lake of the Ozarks is a vast reservoir renowned for its excellent fishing and water activities. With over 1,150 miles of shoreline, the lake offers abundant opportunities to cast a line and reel in a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake’s calm waters also make it a prime spot for water activities such as boating, jet skiing, and parasailing. Moreover, the lake is surrounded by marinas, waterfront restaurants, and vibrant entertainment, ensuring that non-fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of enjoyment as well. Camping at Lake of the Ozarks provides an exciting and versatile experience for both fishing enthusiasts and those seeking thrilling water adventures.
3.3 Lake Powell
Situated in the heart of the Southwest, spanning the border of Arizona and Utah, Lake Powell is a vast expanse of shimmering blue waters surrounded by stunning red rock landscapes. This iconic reservoir offers endless fishing possibilities, with an array of fish species, including striped bass, largemouth bass, and catfish. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the shore, rent a houseboat for overnight angling adventures, or explore hidden coves in a kayak. Water activities such as boating, paddleboarding, and water skiing allow visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of Lake Powell. Camping at Lake Powell is an experience like no other, combining the joys of fishing with the breathtaking scenery of the Southwest.
4. Rivers
4.1 Colorado River
The majestic Colorado River winds its way through the vast landscapes of the American Southwest, offering exceptional fishing and water activities. With its stretches of serene water and thrilling rapids, the river caters to both anglers and adventure seekers. Fishing opportunities abound, with trout, bass, and catfish among the prized catches. Casting a line while surrounded by towering red rock canyons or drifting down the river in a kayak provide unforgettable fishing experiences. For those seeking a thrill, whitewater rafting and jet boating are popular water activities along the Colorado River. Camping along the banks of this iconic river allows you to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty and take part in thrilling fishing and water adventures.
4.2 Snake River
Flowing through the stunning landscapes of Wyoming, Idaho, and Oregon, the Snake River offers a diverse range of fishing and water activities. Known for its world-class trout fishing, this iconic river attracts anglers from near and far. Whether you’re casting a fly for cutthroat trout on its upper reaches or embarking on a guided fishing trip for trophy-sized brown trout in its lower stretches, the Snake River offers a true angling paradise. Water activities such as rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding are also popular, allowing visitors to explore the river’s scenic beauty up close. Camping along the Snake River promises both exceptional fishing opportunities and thrilling water adventures.
4.3 Susquehanna River
Stretching over 400 miles through three states, the Susquehanna River is a haven for fishing enthusiasts and water activity lovers. This magnificent river offers a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, catfish, and walleye. Whether you prefer to fish from the shoreline or explore the river’s hidden coves by boat, there are plenty of angling opportunities to be had. Water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding allow visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of the Susquehanna River and its surrounding landscapes. Camping along the banks of this scenic river provides the perfect opportunity to relax, fish, and indulge in thrilling aquatic adventures.
5. Coastal Areas
5.1 Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks of North Carolina offer an unparalleled coastal camping experience filled with fishing and water activities. With miles of sandy beaches, pristine estuaries, and the mighty Atlantic Ocean, this picturesque destination is a paradise for anglers and water enthusiasts. Surf fishing along the shoreline provides the opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including drum, flounder, and trout. Charter fishing trips are also popular, allowing visitors to venture further offshore in pursuit of game fish like marlin and tuna. Water activities such as swimming, surfing, and kiteboarding are incredibly popular along the Outer Banks. Camping in this breathtaking coastal area promises endless fishing and water adventures for the whole family.
5.2 Big Sur, California
Big Sur, nestled along the rugged coastline of California, offers a unique camping experience where the mountains meet the sea. This stunning coastal area is a haven for fishing enthusiasts and water activity lovers alike. Shore fishing from its rocky cliffs yields an array of fish, including rockfish and surf perch. Anglers can also try their luck in the nearby rivers and streams for trout and steelhead. Water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and boating allow visitors to explore the pristine waters and vibrant marine life of Big Sur. Camping in this majestic coastal region provides an unforgettable opportunity to fish, relax, and soak in the natural beauty of the California coastline.
5.3 Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod, with its picturesque coastal towns and beautiful beaches, is a sought-after destination for camping, fishing, and water activities. This scenic peninsula offers a wealth of fishing opportunities, from surfcasting for striped bass and bluefish along its sandy shores to chartering a boat for deep-sea fishing excursions. Cape Cod is also famous for its excellent recreational clamming and crabbing, allowing visitors to try their hand at catching their own seafood feast. Water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding are popular in Cape Cod’s calm waters. Camping in this charming New England destination promises a perfect combination of fishing adventures and coastal relaxation.
6. Reservoirs
6.1 Lake Mead
Nestled in the vast Mojave Desert of Nevada and Arizona, Lake Mead is a colossal reservoir that offers exceptional fishing and water activities. With over 1.5 million acres of pristine water surface, this man-made wonder attracts anglers from around the world. The lake is home to striped bass, largemouth bass, and catfish, among others, providing ample opportunities for a successful fishing expedition. Boating, water skiing, and swimming are popular water activities on Lake Mead’s azure waters. Camping along the shores of this expansive reservoir allows you to take advantage of its fishing and water adventure offerings while being surrounded by stunning desert landscapes.
6.2 Horsetooth Reservoir
Located just west of Fort Collins, Colorado, Horsetooth Reservoir is a scenic destination known for its recreational opportunities. This reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities for species such as walleye, bass, and trout. Casting a line from the shoreline or from a boat promises a rewarding angling experience. Water activities such as boating, paddleboarding, and swimming make Horsetooth Reservoir a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. With its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and abundant recreational options, camping at Horsetooth Reservoir provides the perfect setting for fishing and water adventures.
6.3 Lake Marion
Situated in the heart of the South Carolina Lowcountry, Lake Marion is a charming reservoir known for its fantastic fishing and water activities. Anglers flock to its waters to catch fish such as largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The lake’s calm waters and hidden coves provide the perfect backdrop for a fishing expedition. Boating, kayaking, and jet skiing are popular water activities, allowing visitors to fully embrace the joys of the water. With its serene beauty and abundant recreational opportunities, camping at Lake Marion promises an unforgettable fishing and water adventure.
7. Campgrounds with Water Activities
7.1 Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resorts
Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resorts, with locations across the United States, offer a family-friendly camping experience with a wide range of water activities. Whether you’re sliding down water slides, splashing in the pool, or floating down lazy rivers, these campgrounds provide endless fun in the water. Many of the Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resorts also offer on-site fishing ponds where kids can learn the joys of catching their first fish. Camping at Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resorts guarantees a fun-filled vacation with a perfect balance of fishing and water adventures for the whole family.
7.2 KOA Kampgrounds
KOA Kampgrounds, with numerous locations nationwide, are a popular choice for camping enthusiasts seeking both fishing and water activities. Many KOA Kampgrounds are situated near lakes or rivers, offering excellent fishing opportunities. Whether you’re casting a line from the shoreline or renting a boat, KOA Kampgrounds provide a fantastic experience for anglers of all ages. Additionally, many of these campgrounds feature swimming pools, water parks, and water-based amenities, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities. Camping at a KOA Kampground guarantees a memorable vacation filled with fishing and exciting water adventures.
7.3 Thousand Trails Campgrounds
Thousand Trails Campgrounds, with locations spanning the United States, offer a wide range of camping experiences with water activities at their forefront. Many of these campgrounds are situated near lakes, rivers, or the coast, providing ample fishing opportunities. Whether you prefer to spend your days casting a line, kayaking, or swimming, Thousand Trails Campgrounds accommodate all water enthusiasts. These campgrounds often feature amenities such as boat rentals, marinas, and beach access, ensuring that visitors can fully indulge in their love for fishing and aquatic adventures. Camping at Thousand Trails Campgrounds promises a fun-filled vacation with a perfect blend of fishing and water activities.
8. Backpacking Destinations
8.1 Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail, spanning over 2,000 miles and crossing 14 states, offers backpacking enthusiasts a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying fishing and water activities. With its countless streams, rivers, and lakes, the trail provides ample opportunities for anglers to cast their lines and catch trout, bass, and other fish species. Additionally, backpackers can take advantage of the Appalachian Trail’s numerous waterfalls and swimming holes, providing a refreshing respite from the trail’s challenges. Backpacking along the Appalachian Trail guarantees breathtaking scenery and the chance to combine the pleasures of hiking, fishing, and water adventures.
8.2 Pacific Crest Trail
The Pacific Crest Trail, stretching over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, is a dream come true for backpacking enthusiasts seeking fishing and water activities. The trail traverses diverse landscapes, including lakes, rivers, and alpine meadows, offering numerous opportunities for anglers to fish for trout, salmon, and other fish species. Many sections of the trail feature pristine lakes where backpackers can take a refreshing dip after a long day of hiking. The Pacific Crest Trail promises an immersive backpacking experience amidst stunning natural beauty, where fishing and water adventures can be seamlessly woven into your long-distance journey.
8.3 Superior Hiking Trail
Located in Minnesota, the Superior Hiking Trail offers backpackers a chance to explore the beauty of Lake Superior’s North Shore while enjoying fishing and other water activities. This 310-mile trail winds its way along the shoreline, providing breathtaking views and numerous access points to the lake’s pristine waters. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore or venture out in boats to catch salmon, trout, and a variety of other fish species. Water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and swimming are also popular along the Superior Hiking Trail. Backpacking this scenic trail promises an unforgettable adventure where fishing and water adventures along Lake Superior take center stage.
9. Fishing-Focused Campgrounds
9.1 Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, with locations across the United States, provides anglers with an exceptional camping experience focused on fishing and water activities. These campgrounds are often situated near prime fishing spots, allowing visitors to easily access lakes, rivers, and streams teeming with fish. From stocked fishing ponds to access points on renowned fishing rivers, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World campgrounds cater to the needs of avid anglers. Additionally, many of these campgrounds offer boating and other water amenities to fully indulge in aquatic adventures. Camping at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World guarantees a fishing-focused vacation with abundant water activities and amenities.
9.2 Trout Haven Fishing Resort
Trout Haven Fishing Resort, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Colorado, is a fishing-focused campground that offers an unparalleled experience for anglers. This resort boasts private fishing ponds stocked with trout, providing guests with an exceptional fishing experience without the need for a fishing license. The campground also offers access to the nearby St. Vrain River, known for its excellent trout fishing. Alongside fishing, guests can enjoy water activities such as paddleboarding, tubing, and gold panning. Camping at Trout Haven Fishing Resort ensures a fishing-focused getaway filled with relaxation, outdoor adventure, and unforgettable water activities.
9.3 Lake Fork Campground
Lake Fork Campground, located in Texas, is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities and water-focused camping experience. Situated on the shores of Lake Fork, one of the top bass fishing lakes in the United States, this campground provides anglers with a prime location to cast their lines and reel in trophy-sized bass. Whether you choose to fish from the shore, rent a boat, or hire a professional fishing guide, Lake Fork Campground guarantees an unforgettable fishing adventure. Water activities such as boating, waterskiing, and swimming are also popular on the lake. Camping at Lake Fork Campground promises exceptional fishing and a water-focused vacation immersed in the beauty of Texas.
10. Family-Friendly Campgrounds
10.1 Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™, with multiple locations across the United States, is a beloved destination for families seeking a camping experience filled with fun, fishing, and water activities. These campgrounds offer a wide range of amenities and activities for all ages, making them ideal for family vacations. Many Jellystone Park™ locations have fishing ponds where kids can experience the joy of catching their first fish. Water activities such as swimming in pools, splashing in water playgrounds, and zooming down waterslides are highlights of these campgrounds. Camping at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ guarantees a family-friendly getaway with ample fishing and exciting water adventures for everyone.
10.2 Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, located near the Magic Kingdom in Florida, offers families a magical camping experience complete with fishing and water activities. This renowned Disney campground features fishing opportunities at Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon, where guests can catch catfish, bass, and more. Fishing excursions and dockside rentals make it easy for visitors to enjoy angling adventures. Water activities such as swimming, canoeing, and kayaking are available at the campground’s marina, allowing families to make the most of their aquatic surroundings. Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground promises a memorable vacation with a touch of Disney magic, perfect for families seeking fishing and water adventures.
10.3 Campland on the Bay
Campland on the Bay, located in San Diego, California, is a family-friendly campground that caters to those seeking fishing and water activities in a picturesque coastal setting. Situated on the shores of Mission Bay, this campground offers excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and halibut. Anglers can cast their lines from the campground’s fishing dock or venture out in boats and kayaks. Water activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular among visitors of all ages. The campground also features a water park and numerous amenities for families to enjoy. Camping at Campland on the Bay ensures a fun-filled fishing and water adventure for the entire family.
In conclusion, the United States is blessed with an abundance of camping spots that offer exceptional fishing and water activities. Whether you’re looking for the serenity of a national park, the charm of a state park, the allure of a lake or river, the beauty of a coastal area, the vastness of a reservoir, the amenities of campgrounds with water activities, the thrill of backpacking destinations, the focus of fishing-focused campgrounds, or the family-friendly atmosphere of campgrounds catering to all ages, there is a perfect camping spot for you. So grab your fishing gear, pack your swimsuit, and embark on a camping adventure filled with unforgettable fishing and water activities.
