25 Worst National Park Campgrounds in 2025: What to Know Before You Go

Camping in U.S. National Parks can be a bucket-list adventure, but not every campground lives up to the hype. Based on recent reviews, safety data, and visitor feedback, here’s a rundown of 25 campgrounds you might want to think twice about in 2025.

For each, we’ll cover the location, typical cost, why it’s considered subpar, reasons you might still enjoy it, and a “bad vibes rating” (1-5, where 5 is the worst). Costs are approximate, based on 2024-2025 data from park websites and reservation systems like Recreation.gov, and may vary by season or site type.

In no particular order, let’s dive in.

1. South Campground, Zion National Park, Utah

Location: Zion National Park, near Springdale, Utah
Cost: $20-$30 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Cramped sites packed close together, constant road noise due to proximity to the main park road, and outdated facilities. Reviewers often mention the lack of privacy and difficulty relaxing.
Why You Might Like It: Prime location near Zion’s iconic trails like Angels Landing. If you’re here to hike and just need a place to crash, the convenience is hard to beat.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (noisy and crowded, but location saves it)

2. Hodgdon Meadow Campground, Yosemite National Park, California

Location: Yosemite National Park, near the Big Oak Flat Entrance, California
Cost: $26-$36 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Unlevel sites, small and tightly packed, with reports of dirty bathrooms in need of renovation. Accessibility to Yosemite Valley is a 45-minute drive.
Why You Might Like It: Quieter than Valley campgrounds, with access to Tuolumne Grove’s giant sequoias. Great for those seeking a less touristy vibe.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (facilities drag it down, but scenery helps)

3. Sunset Campground, Death Valley National Park, California

Location: Death Valley National Park, near Furnace Creek, California
Cost: $14-$22 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Essentially a gravel parking lot with no shade, trees, or fire pits. Harsh desert conditions make tent camping brutal, especially in summer.
Why You Might Like It: Perfect for RVers who want a quick stop to explore Death Valley’s unique geology, like Badwater Basin, without needing frills.
Bad Vibes Rating: 4/5 (barren and uncomfortable)

4. Stovepipe Wells Campground, Death Valley National Park, California

Location: Death Valley National Park, near Stovepipe Wells Village, California
Cost: $14-$22 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Another gravel lot with minimal amenities, often described as a “refugee camp” when crowded. No privacy, and dust storms are common.
Why You Might Like It: Close to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Mosaic Canyon. Ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
Bad Vibes Rating: 4/5 (stark and exposed)

5. Riley Creek Campground, Denali National Park, Alaska

Location: Denali National Park, near the park entrance, Alaska
Cost: $24-$46 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Cold permafrost makes tent camping uncomfortable year-round. Sites can feel utilitarian, and wildlife precautions add stress.
Why You Might Like It: Year-round access and proximity to park shuttles make it a solid base for Denali’s wildlife tours and hiking.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (chilly but functional)

6. Norris Campground, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Location: Yellowstone National Park, near Norris Geyser Basin, Wyoming
Cost: $20-$25 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: First-come, first-served setup leads to long lines and chaos, with waits of hours for a site. Mosquitoes are relentless in summer.
Why You Might Like It: Central location near geysers and hot springs. Off-season, it’s a quieter gem with great trail access.
Bad Vibes Rating: 4/5 (booking stress is a killer)

7. Greenbelt Park Campground, Greenbelt Park, Maryland

Location: Greenbelt Park, near Washington, D.C., Maryland
Cost: $20 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Neglected by the NPS, with outdated facilities and reports of ant infestations. Feels more like an urban afterthought than a park.
Why You Might Like It: Affordable base for D.C. sightseeing, just 12 miles from the National Mall. Great for city explorers.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (urban convenience, rural neglect)

8. Congaree National Park Campground, Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Location: Congaree National Park, near Hopkins, South Carolina
Cost: Free (backcountry, permit required)
Why It’s Not Good: Severe mosquito problems, with gift shops selling “I Gave Blood at Congaree” shirts. Limited amenities and swampy conditions.
Why You Might Like It: Unique floodplain forest and boardwalk trails. Late fall or early spring visits dodge the worst bugs.
Bad Vibes Rating: 4/5 (bugs are a nightmare)

9. Organ Pipe Cactus Campground, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Location: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, near Ajo, Arizona
Cost: $20-$25 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Remote location near the border raises safety concerns due to past smuggling activity. Heatstroke risk in summer.
Why You Might Like It: Stunning desert scenery and rare organ pipe cacti. Quiet and secluded for those who love solitude.
Bad Vibes Rating: 4/5 (safety concerns loom large)

10. Gulpha Gorge Campground, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Location: Hot Springs National Park, near Hot Springs, Arkansas
Cost: $34 per night (tent/RV, some electric hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Small sites and dated facilities, with noise from nearby town. Not much “national park” feel.
Why You Might Like It: Access to thermal springs and hiking trails. Close to town for dining and amenities.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (lacks wilderness charm)

11. Elkmont Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Cost: $25-$27 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Crowded and noisy, with heavy traffic and limited privacy. High risk of bear encounters if food isn’t stored properly.
Why You Might Like It: Vibrant wildlife and access to popular trails like Laurel Falls. Great for families who want action.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (busy but scenic)

12. Mather Campground, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Location: Grand Canyon National Park, South Rim, Arizona
Cost: $18-$25 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Crowded with tightly packed sites, and dust can be an issue. Reservations fill up fast, leaving little flexibility.
Why You Might Like It: South Rim access to epic views and trails like Bright Angel. Perfect for first-time Grand Canyon visitors.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (crowds dampen the vibe)

13. Devils Garden Campground, Arches National Park, Utah

Location: Arches National Park, near Moab, Utah
Cost: $25 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Books up to 99.2% in peak season, making it nearly impossible to snag a spot. Limited shade and exposed sites.
Why You Might Like It: Stunning desert arches and hiking trails right at your doorstep. Ideal for photographers and early risers.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (booking hassle is the main issue)

14. Fruita Campground, Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Location: Capitol Reef National Park, near Torrey, Utah
Cost: $20 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Highly competitive reservations (95.9% booked in season). Small campground with basic amenities.
Why You Might Like It: Scenic orchards and desert views. Quieter than other Utah parks, with great hiking nearby.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (hard to book but pleasant)

15. Aspenglen Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Location: Rocky Mountain National Park, near Estes Park, Colorado
Cost: $26-$36 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Tight sites and tricky reservations (96.1% booked). Can feel overrun during peak summer.
Why You Might Like It: Stunning mountain views and elk sightings. Close to Bear Lake trailhead for epic hikes.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (crowded but beautiful)

16. Colter Bay RV Park, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Location: Grand Teton National Park, near Moran, Wyoming
Cost: $40-$60 per night (RV with hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Expensive for a national park, with packed sites and a commercial feel. Books up fast (94.9%).
Why You Might Like It: Lake views and access to Teton trails. Great for RVers wanting amenities.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (pricey but scenic)

17. Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Location: Badlands National Park, near Interior, South Dakota
Cost: $23-$38 per night (tent/RV, some electric hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Exposed sites with little shade, prone to extreme weather. Limited amenities for the price.
Why You Might Like It: Bison and prairie dogs roam nearby, and sunsets are spectacular. Great for stargazing.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (weather can be rough)

18. North Rim Campground, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Location: Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim, Arizona
Cost: $18-$25 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Remote with limited services, and sites can be uneven. Long drive to amenities.
Why You Might Like It: Quieter than South Rim, with cooler temps and lush forests. Ideal for solitude seekers.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (remote but peaceful)

19. Manzanita Lake Campground, Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Location: Lassen Volcanic National Park, near Mineral, California
Cost: $26-$35 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Some sites are small and lack privacy. Recent closures for repairs suggest maintenance issues.
Why You Might Like It: Beautiful lake views and access to volcanic trails. Great for kayaking and fishing.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (minor gripes, great scenery)

20. Cottonwood Campground, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

Location: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, near Medora, North Dakota
Cost: $14 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: No water or electric hookups, and bison wandering through can be intimidating for some.
Why You Might Like It: Wildlife galore and serene river views. Perfect for rugged campers who love raw nature.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (wild but rustic)

21. Twelvemile Beach Campground, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Location: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, near Grand Marais, Michigan
Cost: $15-$20 per night (tent only, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Books up fast (99.4% in season), with basic amenities and cold Lake Superior winds.
Why You Might Like It: Stunning lake views and access to kayaking. Ideal for tent campers who love water.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (hard to book but scenic)

22. Hurricane River Campground, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Location: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, near Grand Marais, Michigan
Cost: $15-$20 per night (tent only, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Nearly impossible to reserve (96.8% booked). Limited facilities and buggy in summer.
Why You Might Like It: Close to Au Sable Light Station and pristine beaches. Great for photographers.
Bad Vibes Rating: 2/5 (booking woes, but beautiful)

23. Sahale Glacier Campground, North Cascades National Park, Washington

Location: North Cascades National Park, near Marblemount, Washington
Cost: Free (backcountry, permit required)
Why It’s Not Good: Remote and dangerous, with avalanche risks and challenging terrain. Not for beginners.
Why You Might Like It: Epic alpine views for experienced backcountry campers. A true wilderness adventure.
Bad Vibes Rating: 4/5 (high risk, high reward)

24. Fish Creek Campground, Glacier National Park, Montana

Location: Glacier National Park, near West Glacier, Montana
Cost: $23 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Crowded with tight sites, and bear activity requires strict food storage. Can feel chaotic.
Why You Might Like It: Lake McDonald views and access to Going-to-the-Sun Road. Great for Glacier newbies.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (busy but iconic)

25. Lower Lehman Creek Campground, Great Basin National Park, Nevada

Location: Great Basin National Park, near Baker, Nevada
Cost: $15 per night (tent/RV, no hookups)
Why It’s Not Good: Closed for major renovations in 2025, indicating prior maintenance issues. Small and basic when open.
Why You Might Like It: Remote with dark skies for stargazing and access to Wheeler Peak trails.
Bad Vibes Rating: 3/5 (closure hurts, but potential is there)

Final Thoughts

While these campgrounds have their drawbacks, many still offer unique access to America’s natural wonders. If you’re set on visiting, plan ahead, check recent reviews on sites like The Dyrt, and consider off-season trips to avoid crowds and bugs. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and park safety guidelines. Happy camping—or maybe consider a nearby state park instead!