Camping isn’t just about enjoying nature and sleeping under the stars—it can also be a way to connect with history. Historical campsites offer a unique opportunity to explore the past while experiencing the beauty of the outdoors. Whether it’s the site of a legendary expedition, an old military encampment, or a location that has been significant for centuries, these destinations provide an insightful look at the events that shaped history. Join us as we take a journey through time and discover some of the most fascinating historical campsites around the world.
1. Fort Clatsop, Oregon
Fort Clatsop, located in the lush forests of Oregon, is a remarkable destination for anyone interested in the history of exploration. This site marks the location where Lewis and Clark and their Corps of Discovery camped during the winter of 1805-1806, after completing their journey to the Pacific Ocean. Today, it serves as a gateway to the past, where you can learn about their challenges, triumphs, and interactions with the local Native American tribes.
What to Experience: Visitors to Fort Clatsop can explore a replica of the fort where Lewis and Clark stayed, complete with period-accurate tools, clothing, and living quarters. The nearby hiking trails provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the same landscapes the explorers traversed. Participate in ranger-led programs to learn more about the journey and see demonstrations of how the Corps survived the harsh winter.
Tips: Plan to visit during the summer months for the best weather. The park also has a visitor center where you can watch an informative documentary on the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
2. Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
Valley Forge is one of the most significant sites in American history. During the harsh winter of 1777-1778, General George Washington and the Continental Army camped here, enduring cold, hunger, and deprivation. Today, Valley Forge National Historical Park offers a glimpse into the struggle and resilience of the soldiers who fought for American independence.
What to Experience: Walk through the reconstructed log cabins that served as the soldiers’ shelters, explore Washington’s Headquarters, and visit the Memorial Arch that commemorates those who suffered at Valley Forge. Guided tours and interpretive programs are available to help visitors understand the history of this pivotal moment in the American Revolution.
Tips: Take advantage of the park’s numerous hiking and biking trails. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the park to make the most of your visit.
3. Elkmont Historic District, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Elkmont Historic District offers a fascinating look at the early 20th century, when the area was a popular vacation spot for affluent residents of nearby cities. Before becoming part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Elkmont was home to a lively community of summer cottages and even a logging town. Today, visitors can camp near the remnants of this historic district and explore the abandoned structures that tell the story of Elkmont’s transformation.
What to Experience: Stroll through the “Ghost Town” of Elkmont, where you can see old vacation cottages and the Wonderland Hotel. The campground offers a blend of history and nature, with easy access to beautiful hiking trails like the Little River Trail.
Tips: Bring a flashlight for exploring the old cottages at dusk, but be mindful of safety as the buildings are fragile. Elkmont Campground is one of the most popular in the park, so reservations are highly recommended.
4. Bannack State Park, Montana
Bannack State Park is a well-preserved ghost town that offers visitors a glimpse into Montana’s Gold Rush era. Founded in 1862, Bannack was once a thriving mining town, and today, the entire town is preserved as a state park. Camping at Bannack allows you to experience the eerie quiet of an abandoned gold rush town while exploring its historic buildings.
What to Experience: Wander through more than 50 historic buildings, including the old schoolhouse, hotel, and saloon. The park offers guided tours that provide insight into the town’s history, its colorful residents, and the boom-and-bust cycle of gold mining in the American West.
Tips: Visit during Bannack Days in July, when the town comes alive with reenactments, gold panning, and demonstrations of 19th-century crafts. The campground has basic amenities, so be prepared for rustic conditions.
5. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale National Park, located in Lake Superior, is not only a pristine wilderness but also home to historical sites that tell the story of the island’s past inhabitants. The park features old copper mining sites and the remains of fishing communities that once thrived here. Camping on Isle Royale is a unique experience, offering the opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical remnants.
What to Experience: Hike to the Minong Mine to see the remnants of the island’s copper mining history, or visit the Edisen Fishery to learn about the island’s fishing heritage. The island is also known for its diverse wildlife, including wolves and moose, making it an ideal destination for those interested in both history and nature.
Tips: Isle Royale is only accessible by boat or seaplane, so plan your trip well in advance. Be prepared for backcountry camping, as amenities are limited.
6. Fort Davis National Historic Site, Texas
Fort Davis, located in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, was an active military post from 1854 to 1891, established to protect travelers along the San Antonio-El Paso Road. Today, it is one of the best-preserved examples of a frontier military fort and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of soldiers, settlers, and Native Americans during the westward expansion of the United States.
What to Experience: Explore the restored buildings, including barracks, officers’ quarters, and the hospital. The site also features exhibits detailing the role of the Buffalo Soldiers, African American troops who served at Fort Davis. Camping is available nearby at Davis Mountains State Park, which offers stunning views of the rugged landscape.
Tips: Visit during the cooler months, as summer temperatures can be extreme. Attend one of the living history events to see reenactors bring the fort’s history to life.
7. Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
Cape Lookout National Seashore offers a different kind of historical camping experience—one that combines maritime history with the beauty of the Atlantic coast. The area is home to the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, which has guided mariners along the treacherous shoals for over 150 years. The seashore also has remnants of old fishing villages and the iconic wild horses of Shackleford Banks.
What to Experience: Camp on the beach and wake up to the sight of the lighthouse against the morning sky. Take a ferry to Shackleford Banks to see the wild horses, or explore the lighthouse keeper’s quarters to learn about the challenges of life on the Outer Banks.
Tips: Camping here is primitive, so bring all necessary supplies, including water. Be aware of changing tides and weather conditions, as the area is prone to sudden shifts.
8. Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico
Chaco Culture National Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a deep dive into the history of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area over 1,000 years ago. The park is home to a network of ancient ruins, including great houses, ceremonial kivas, and intricate roadways that connected Chaco to other cultural centers in the region.
What to Experience: Camp under the stars in one of the darkest skies in the United States, perfect for stargazing. During the day, explore the ruins of Pueblo Bonito and Chetro Ketl, and learn about the complex society that built these impressive structures. Ranger-led tours provide a wealth of information about the cultural and astronomical significance of Chaco.
Tips: The road to Chaco can be rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Be sure to bring plenty of water, as the desert environment can be harsh and amenities are limited.
Exploring historical campsites offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying the beauty of nature. These destinations provide a glimpse into the lives of those who came before us, from pioneering explorers and Revolutionary War soldiers to gold miners and ancient civilizations. Whether you’re interested in American history, indigenous cultures, or the stories of early settlers, camping at these historical sites allows you to experience history in a way that goes beyond books and museums—it allows you to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped the world as we know it.
