It’s one thing to look at photos of a beautiful waterfall. But to stand at the base of one, feel the mist, and listen to the sound of gushing water hurling over the side of a cliff? There is nothing like it!
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Waterfalls are one of nature’s best displays of beauty, energy, and force. Camp near one and experience this wonder for yourself! There are countless waterfalls throughout the United States. Some nestle in lush rainforests, and others spill out in the open over massive cliffsides. In this blog, we share the best destinations to camp near some amazing waterfalls. We also share some of our best outdoor tips for camping in a damp environment. So, keep on reading to discover your next waterfall camping adventure!
The Hoh Rainforest, Olympic National Park
On the Olympic Peninsula in Washington is Olympic National Park. This is one of the most diverse intersections of ecosystems in the country– from glacial peaks to rugged coastlines, old-growth rainforests, and more. Here, discover the Hoh Rainforest. It is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States and is home to miles of scenic hiking trails and numerous waterfalls, right within Olympic National Park.
Mineral Creek Falls is one of the more easily accessible waterfalls. The trail near the the Hoh Visitor Center, and winds through a dense, mossy, and fragrant forest. Enjoy a beautifully picturesque waterfall.
While you’re here, venture into Sol Duc Valley. Hop on the trail to Sol Duc Falls and be immersed in old-growth forests, seemingly stepping back in time. This waterfall is pronounced, loud, and a photographer’s dream.
Near the Quinault area is the Enchanted Valley. You may hear this place referred to as the “Valley of 10,000 Waterfalls”. If that doesn’t sound like the ultimate waterfall camping destination, we don’t know what does!
Visit the Olympic Peninsula website for more details on some incredible waterfall hikes!
Camping Here
There are lots of places to camp in the Olympic National Park. Camp right at the Hoh Rainforest campground. This extensive campground puts visitors right in the heart of the action. There are 72 year-round sites right along the Hoh River, and hiking trails are accessible throughout. The Fairhome Campground is right on the west point of Lake Crescent. It sits slightly north of the Hoh Rainforest and Sol Duc. The Sol Duc Hot Springs RV Park & Campground is perfect for a wide range of campers. Like the name states, this is a great option for RVs. Camp right in the old-growth rainforest, close to some amazing waterfalls.
Yosemite National Park
You may know Yosemite National Park for its incredible peaks. El Capitan, Half Dome, and Sentinel Dome– to name a few. But one of Yosemite’s best features is its wealth of stunning waterfalls. Camping in this national park gives visitors access to some very impressive falls.
Bridalveil Fall– visible from afar at Tunnel View– makes for an exciting introduction to this national park. As you continue into Yosemite Valley, park at the trailhead and enjoy a short walk to the base. It’s slick and rocky, but it’s a great view of this graceful waterfall. Deeper in the valley is Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in the park. It’s broken up into upper and lower falls, and makes for great photos. Continue into the valley and catch views of Horsetail Fall, Sentinel Fall, and many more.For a more challenging but rewarding hike, venture up towards Vernal Falls. Hike further up the trail and discover the powerful, somewhat daunting, Nevada Falls.
Camping Here
Yosemite has lots of camping opportunities within the park boundaries. In the valley, tent-only camping is available at Camp 4, a popular destination for climbers, and very close to Yosemite Falls. The Pines campgrounds (Upper and Lower) are along the Merced River. They are close to Curry Village, and biking and hiking distance to the trailheads. Read about more Yosemite camping opportunities here.
Niagara Falls State Park
This wouldn’t be a waterfall blog if we didn’t mention Niagara Falls! Perhaps one of the most impressive displays of nature in the U.S., this state park is a must-see. Located way up in the north, this destination straddles the Canadian and New York border. From the Canadian side, viewers can see Horseshoe Falls, and on the New York side, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are visible. It’s the oldest state park in the country, and is open all year.
Visitors will be amazed not only by the sights, but also by just how much there is to do here. Through on a rain poncho and join a walking tour for breathtaking views. Or, hop on a boat ride to get drenched in mist and see the incredible falls from below.
Everything this area has to offer makes it a great camping location for people of all ages and abilities. And the state park has great accessibility features, as well. Discover a bit more about this unique landscape’s history here!
Camping Here
There are lots of different camping opportunities near Niagara Falls! While the state park itself doesn’t have a campground, local spots make visiting here an extra fun visit.
Daisy Barn Campground sits right on Lake Ontario. With 88 tent sites to choose from and no bad views, families will love staying here. Big grassy lots are perfect for pitching everything from an A-frame to a bell tent. It’s close to town and other attractions, too, for those who want to explore the area a bit more. Four Mile Creek State Park is another expansive campground right on the lake with various camping options. Glampers will love staying in a beautiful, spacious yurt on the property. There are a lot more camping opportunities near this amazing location. Find the perfect fit for you, here!
Our Best Tips for Camping Near Waterfalls
As you plan your waterfall camping trip, pack the right way! The key ingredients to keep in mind are how to stay dry, keep warm, and be cozy. We’ll talk about great canvas, tent accessories, and more!
Canvas Tents
A heavy-duty canvas tent is ideal for waterfall camping. This durable material is built to withstand all sorts of different elements. With a water-resistant finish, the canvas is protected from deterioration due to moisture. In damp, misty environments, that comes in extra handy! Furthermore, canvas is naturally insulating. So it is bound to keep you warm and comfortable when you come back in from a hike.
Camping Tent Accessories
For a successful waterfall camping trip, you’ll need a few extra pieces of gear to complete your setup. Add extra protection from the elements with a rainfly sheet. This is a waterproof tarp that should be slightly larger than the dimensions of your tent. Suspend it above the tent with extra guylines and stakes. It sort of acts like an umbrella!
Similarly, a tent footprint is another waterproof layer. Only this one protects the bottom of your tent. Both sheets are essential to prolonging the quality of the tent material. They also add crucial insulation to warm up the interior of the tent, to enhance your experience.
If you’re camping near waterfalls, chances are the temperatures are cooler outside. Especially if you’re deep in a sheltered forest or canyon. Not to mention, it will probably be a little damp! To stay warm and to help keep your tent dry, pack a stove. A wood-burning tent stove does a great job at keeping the interior of the tent dry and cozy. It prevents mold and mildew and adds a great deal of comfort.
Extras
Photographers, bring your tripod! Waterfall areas can be rocky, misty, and sometimes crowded. Get a steady shot by bringing your tripod. And of course, bring a microfiber cloth to wipe off the mist from your gear.
Hiking poles tend to come in handy when traversing around the base of a waterfall. These areas are often rocky and slippery. The extra stability that poles offer is essential here. Additionally, ensure that your hiking boots have good traction.
Bring a fully waterproof rain shell. Even if you aren’t swimming, waterfall mist can be dense. You’ll thank yourself for bringing this essential layer. Bonus points for wearing rain pants, too!
Final Thoughts
Camp near waterfalls for amazing memories, views, and experiences! The most beautiful thing about them is that everyone is different, and every time you view it, it’s different. Discover hidden waterfalls in a dense, green rainforest. Or, marvel at the most impressive, powerful falls over massive cliff sides. Whatever your idea of the perfect waterfall is, there is a perfect place to camp near it! Start planning your camping trip to visit your favorite waterfall, or a new one. Waterfalls will surely leave you awe-inspired with their beautiful display of nature’s power.
Happy camping!
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