The following is a directory of bicycle camping resources throughout the United States (we have a larger, more detailed directory of bicycle camping resources in Kansas and its neighboring states of Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and Oklahoma).
Bicycle travelers typically prefer free or low-cost overnight stays, and often choose natural settings versus "campgrounds" populated by RV's and car campers. A such, this list is concentrated on parks, forests, and wilderness areas where tent camping, primitive camping, wild camping, and/or dispersed camping are permitted or encouraged.
This list not intended to be completely comprehensive list (since that's probably impossible), but should point you in the right direction for further research. Also note that not all of these links are exclusively devoted to bicycle camping; many are more broadly focused on "camping" in general.
Bicycle Camping in the United States
- Nationwide:
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- Adventure Cycling Association – Adventure Cycling Association's mission is to inspire people of all ages to travel by bicycle. They create bike routes and maps, lead bike tours, publish Adventure Cyclist magazine, sell bike gear, and provide bicycle travel information. Self-contained bike trips are their specialty.
- BikeOvernights.org – Provides inspiration, resources, and tools for short bicycle tours (1-2 nights). Stories, photos, gear recommendations, etc.
- Bureau of Land Management – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages public lands in many states across the country, especially in the American West. In general, most BLM land is open to dispersed camping, as well as camping at a number of formal campgrounds.
- FreeCampgrounds.net – A directory of free and low-cost campsites, primarily aimed at RV'ers, though many sites also accept tent campers.
- FreeCampsites.net – A directory of free and low-cost campsites, primarily aimed at car camping and RV parking, though many sites also accept tent campers.
- National Parks – The National Park Service administers America's national parks, national grasslands, national rivers, national historic sites, and more. Many of these have camping opportunities, ranging from established campgrounds to wilderness camping.
- Alabama:
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- Wildernet – Recreation guide to camping in Alabama. Includes detailed information on campgrounds and other places to camp, hike, backpack, fish and mountainbike.
- Alabama State Parks – Most Alabama State Parks host modern campsites along with primitive camping.
- Natchez Trace Parkway – "There are more than a dozen campgrounds along the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor, three in the park, and many others just outside the park. The three Parkway campgrounds are free, primitive, and available on a first come, first serve basis. They do not offer electricity, showers, or dump stations." The Natchez Trace runs through Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
- Alaska:
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- Alaska BLM Camping – "You can camp on most BLM lands for up to 2 weeks (14 days) at a time. All camping is on a first-come, first-serve basis."
- Alaska National Parks – Alaska hosts 15 national parks, preserves, monuments and national historical parks.
- Alaska State Parks – "Encompassing more than 3.3 million acres of rugged, unspoiled terrain, the Alaska State Park System provides endless recreational opportunities."
- AlaskaCampgrounds.com – Alaska Campground Owner's Association (ACOA) members provide outdoor hospitality excellence to the camping public in Alaska.
- AlaskaTrekker.com – "Tent and van camping is wonderful in Alaska, definitely your best bet for an inexpensive vacation. In Alaska, campsites abound on state, national park sites, commercial sites, or just off in the bush. Alaska state law does not prohibit camping by the side of the road. Other possibilities for roadside camping are the many turnouts, rest areas marked by rectangular blue signs and scenic viewpoints. All these can make good campsites."
- Arizona:
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- Arizona BLM Camping – "BLM Arizona provides many opportunities for camping on public lands. Visitors have the opportunity to camp at campgrounds, Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs), or in dispersed areas throughout the state."
- Arizona National Parks – "From the canyonlands of northern Arizona to the classic western saguaro cactus regions of the south, you could easily spend a lifetime exploring Arizona's scenic national parks, monuments and wilderness areas."
- Arizona Highways – 10 of the best campsites in Arizona
- Arizona State Parks – Most Arizona State Parks offer modern campgrounds, along with primitive camping. Backcountry camping is offered at some parks, as well.
- Arkansas:
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- Arkansas Bicycle Camping – State Parks, National Parks, National Forests, and commercial campgrounds.
- California:
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- Cyclelicious – A directory of California State Parks with bike camping facilities.
- California BLM Camping – "Tremendous camping opportunities can be found on public lands throughout California. These include developed campgrounds, dispersed camping opportunities and long term visitor areas."
- California State Parks – "Hike or bike campsites are offered in many of our California State Parks. Vehicles are not allowed in these sites. A permit is not required to hike and bike in our State Parks. They are located in relatively undisturbed natural settings. Hike or bike campsites are reserved for people who either walk in or pedal into their campsites. Hike and Bikers are still required to register as campers in the campgrounds and pay fees, although the fees are usually lower than fees for a typical campsite."
- California National Parks – The National Parks Service maintains 23 separate units in the state of California, most with either campsites or dispersed camping opportunities.
- Colorado:
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- Colorado Bicycle Camping – State Parks, National Parks, National Forests, BLM land, and commercial campgrounds.
- Connecticut:
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- Connecticut State Parks – "Connecticut offers campgrounds in thirteen state parks or forests. The Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection provides 1400 campsites throughout the state for your outdoor enjoyment. Camping areas can be found in a variety of settings including shadowy woodlands, sandy shoreline beaches, inland lakes, and secluded islands."
- ConnecticutCampgroundGuide.com – A guide to camping in Connecticut ... mostly RV campgrounds, but some offer tent camping opportunities as well.
- Delaware:
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- Delaware State Parks – "Delaware State Parks have a great deal to offer in family camping. Take your vacation amid towering trees near a freshwater pond or enjoy the scenery of rolling sand dunes and sparkling bay waters."
- Florida:
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- CampFlorida.com – A directory of commercial campgrounds, from the Florida Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, amnyu offering both RV and tent sites.
- Florida State Parks – Florida State Parks offer "full-facility" campsites for tent campers and RVers, and "many state parks provide primitive campsites for those who enjoy secluded areas".
- Tent Camping Florida – "Reviews for state and federal campgrounds around the state, while focusing on the needs of tent and pop-up camping."
- Georgia:
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- Georgia State Parks – "Forty-one parks offer more than 2,700 campsites, including tent-only areas, RV pull-thru sites, primitive camping and group camping areas. Rates average around $23-$28 per night. Most state parks have laundry facilities and sell camping supplies."
- Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest – Offers campgrounds, RV sites, and dispersed camping opportunities.
- Hawaii:
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- Haleakalā National Park – There are two primitive wilderness campsites, at Palikū and Hōlua, which are accessible only by trail. Permits are required for overnight camping at these sites. Drive-up car camping is also available in the park.
- Hawaii State Parks – "Hawai'i's State Park campgrounds are not set up for camping in vehicles, including campers, vans and trailers. Camping fees for Hawaii State Parks start at $12 per campsite per night ($18 non-resident)."
- Idaho:
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- Idaho BLM Camping – "Many developed campgrounds and several secluded, undeveloped campgrounds are available on the scenic Idaho BLM lands. Visitors are encouraged to explore off the beaten path, and camping is allowed in non-designated areas on BLM land."
- Idaho National Forests – There are nine national forests and national grasslands managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the state of Idaho. Most offer both established campgrounds and dispersed camping.
- Idaho National Parks – The National Parks Service maintains seven national parks in the state of Idaho, most with either campsites or dispersed camping opportunities.
- Idaho State Parks – Idaho state parks provide campgrounds for both RVs and tent camping. Camping is permitted only in designated areas.
- Illinois:
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- Cyclists' Only Camping: Chester, Illinois – "In addition to offering a piece of ground for cyclists to pitch their tents, laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers with towels and basic toiletries are also available."
- IllinoisGoCamping.com – Directory of the Illinois Campground Association. "The parks featured in this directory offer a variety of camp accommodations and experiences."
- Illinois State Parks – "Generally, throughout the state, camping is available year round weather permitting."
- Shawnee National Forest – "The Shawnee National Forest offers a variety of camping experiences ranging from primitive backpacking to a developed campground equipped with showers and electrical sites. Most campgrounds & picnic areas are located near lakes or areas of exceptional beauty."
- Indiana:
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- Hoosier National Forest – "The Hoosier National Forest, in the hills of south central Indiana, provides a wide mix of opportunities and resources for people to enjoy. Rolling hills, back-country trails, and rural crossroad communities make this small but beautiful Forest a favorite." Campgrounds, RV parking, and dispersed camping.
- Indiana Parks and Reservoirs – Most Indiana State Parks and Reservoirs provide campsites for RVs and tents.
- Iowa:
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- Iowa Bicycle Camping – State Parks, State Forests, and commercial campgrounds.
- Kansas:
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- Kansas Bicycle Camping – State Parks, National Grasslands, Corp of Engineers sites, state fishing lakes, wildlife areas, commercial campgrounds, community lakes, community parks, and free city park camping.
- Kentucky:
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- Daniel Boone National Forest – "The Daniel Boone National Forest embraces some of the most rugged terrain west of the Appalachian Mountains. The forest lies within the Cumberland Plateau, where steep forested slopes, sandstone cliffs and narrow ravines characterize the land in this area." Campgrounds, RV parking, and dispersed camping.
- Kentucky Parks and Reservoirs – "Enjoy the beauty of nature in one of the 31 tent and RV campgrounds in Kentucky State Parks. Whatever your interests, our campgrounds have the facilities to meet your needs and offer some of the best camping in Kentucky, from primitive camping to full service RV camping."
- Louisiana:
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- Kisatchie National Forest – "Hidden in the bayous, beneath the bald cypress groves and old growth pine, is a world of natural beauty, excitement, learning, recreation, resources and wildlife in their purest form." Campgrounds and RV parking.
- Louisiana State Parks – "Louisiana's many state parks and recreational sites offer campers the perfect way to partake of this bounty. Whether you are looking for the ideal spot along that lovely stream to pitch a tent and cook some fresh fish, or you prefer the comfort of a cozy cabin with all the amenities, you'll find plenty of options."
- Maine:
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- Maine State Parks – "Designed to harmonize with mountain, lake, and seashore, Maine's state park system is as varied as the state's landscape. Mountain trails, lakeside picnic tables, ocean beaches. Twelve state parks and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway provide camping opportunities."
- White Mountain National Forest – "The White Mountain National Forest offers a variety of camping experiences: from family-friendly developed campgrounds, to popular backcountry sites, to the solitude of a Wilderness setting."
- Maryland:
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- Maryland State Parks – "The Maryland Park Service offers more than 2,000 campsites, 120 full-service and camper cabins, and 100 picnic shelters to guests. Maryland's state parks offer a camping experience for everyone - from campgrounds with electric, sewer and water hookups and showers, to primitive camping in state forests."
- The C&O Canal Bicycling Camping Guide – "There are plenty of camping options along the towpath. Rustic 'Hiker/Biker' Campsites (H/B) are provided about every 5 miles beginning at Mile 16. Each camp site has a water pump, Jiffy John, grill, and picnic table." The C&O runs along the Potomac River through Washington DC, Maryland, and West Virginia.
- Massachusetts:
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- CampMass.com – "Travel East from the beautiful Berkshire Mountains through the river valleys of Central Massachusetts to the historic coastal areas. Mountains, Valleys, Rivers and Lakes abound in our Camping Adventure land."
- Massachusetts State Parks – Campground camping at most parks, as well as hike-in camping in a few.
- Michigan:
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- Michigan State Parks – "You are never more than half an hour from a Michigan State Park, State Forest Campground, State Recreation Area or State trail system." map
- Michigan National Forests – Hiawatha National Forest, Huron-Manistee National Forest, and Ottawa National Forest offer campgrounds as well as dispersed camping opportunities.
- MichCampgrounds.com – A directory of commercial campgrounds in Michigan, many tent-friendly.
- Minnesota:
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- Minnesota State Parks and Forests – "State forests provide more than 2,000 miles of forest roads and thousands of logging trails, including 46 campgrounds with 1,000 campsites. State parks offer more than 5,000 campsites." State Forests also offer free dispersed camping opportunities.
- Minnesota National Forests – Chippewa National Forest and Superior National Forest offer campgrounds as well as dispersed camping.
- Mississippi:
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- Mississippi State Parks – "Multiple state parks and recreational facilities from the Gulf Coast to the northern state line give each visitor and many a restless resident the opportunity to experience the wonder of Mississippi's outdoors for themselves. Whether with just a tent or a full-on RV with all the amenities, Mississippi state parks and campsites have a place for everyone."
- Mississippi National Forests – The Bienville, Delta, Desoto, Holly Springs, Homochitto, and Tombigbee National Forests offer campground camping.
- Natchez Trace Parkway – "There are more than a dozen campgrounds along the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor, three in the park, and many others just outside the park. The three Parkway campgrounds are free, primitive, and available on a first come, first serve basis. They do not offer electricity, showers, or dump stations." The Natchez Trace runs through Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
- Missouri:
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- Missouri Bicycle Camping – State Parks, National Forests, Conservation Areas, and commercial campgrounds.
- Montana:
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- Nebraska:
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- Nebraska Bicycle Camping – State Parks, National Forests, and commercial campgrounds.
- Nevada:
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- New Hampshire:
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- New Jersey:
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- New Mexico:
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- New York:
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- North Carolina:
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- North Dakota:
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- Ohio:
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- Oklahoma:
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- Oklahoma Bicycle Camping – State Parks, National Forests, and commercial campgrounds.
- Oregon:
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- Pennsylvania:
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- Rhode Island:
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- South Carolina:
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- South Dakota:
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- Tennessee:
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- Natchez Trace Parkway – "There are more than a dozen campgrounds along the Natchez Trace Parkway corridor, three in the park, and many others just outside the park. The three Parkway campgrounds are free, primitive, and available on a first come, first serve basis. They do not offer electricity, showers, or dump stations." The Natchez Trace runs through Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
- Texas:
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- Utah:
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- Vermont:
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- Virginia:
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- Washington:
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- Washington D.C.:
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- The C&O Canal Bicycling Camping Guide – "There are plenty of camping options along the towpath. Rustic 'Hiker/Biker' Campsites (H/B) are provided about every 5 miles beginning at Mile 16. Each camp site has a water pump, Jiffy John, grill, and picnic table." The C&O runs along the Potomac River through Washington DC, Maryland, and West Virginia.
- West Virginia:
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- The C&O Canal Bicycling Camping Guide – "There are plenty of camping options along the towpath. Rustic 'Hiker/Biker' Campsites (H/B) are provided about every 5 miles beginning at Mile 16. Each camp site has a water pump, Jiffy John, grill, and picnic table." The C&O runs along the Potomac River through Washington DC, Maryland, and West Virginia.
- Wisconsin:
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- Wyoming:
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It's encouraging to see that some states appear to truly value bicycle campers, by providing dedicated bike-camping sites, by documenting camping areas that are bicycle-friendly, or by providing ample public land that may be freely used by the public.
Why can't Kansas do that?
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