14 Best Family Camping Destinations In The World

You’re probably wondering where to take your family camping without breaking the bank or dealing with cranky kids. Finding destinations that balance stunning scenery, kid-friendly activities, and reasonable costs isn’t easy—but it’s definitely possible. From America’s iconic national parks to hidden gems across continents, certain spots consistently deliver unforgettable experiences for families. These fourteen destinations offer something special: they’ll create lasting memories while keeping everyone happy, fed, and entertained throughout your adventure.

Key Points

• North American parks like Yellowstone and Banff offer wildlife viewing, geysers, and family-friendly campgrounds with advance booking required.
• European destinations such as Lake District provide affordable campsites with lake activities and historic attractions year-round.
• Australian Great Ocean Road features coastal camping with koala spotting and limestone formations at budget-friendly seaside campgrounds.
• South American Torres del Paine offers granite spires and turquoise lakes with well-maintained campsites for family day hikes.
• African Kruger National Park provides Big Five wildlife experiences with fenced camps and self-drive safari opportunities.

Yellowstone National Park, United States

Why settle for crowded theme parks when you can give your family an authentic adventure at Yellowstone National Park? You’ll witness geysers erupting, spot bison roaming freely, and camp under star-filled skies without breaking the bank.

Book campsites early—they fill up fast during summer months. Bridge Bay and Grant Village offer family-friendly amenities like restrooms and picnic tables. Madison Campground puts you close to wildlife viewing areas where kids can safely observe elk and bears from your vehicle.

Pack layers since temperatures drop dramatically at night, even in summer. Don’t forget binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera for Old Faithful. Your entrance fee covers seven days, giving you plenty of time to explore trails, hot springs, and educational visitor centers that’ll keep everyone engaged. Make sure to pack a well-stocked first aid kit since medical facilities can be far from remote camping areas.

Banff National Park, Canada

While Banff National Park requires crossing the border into Canada, you’ll discover one of North America’s most stunning camping destinations without the hefty price tag of luxury mountain resorts.

Your family can choose from thirteen campgrounds, with Tunnel Mountain and Two Jack Lakeside offering the best amenities for families with young children.

You’ll save hundreds compared to hotel stays while accessing world-class hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Book campsites well in advance through Parks Canada’s reservation system, especially for summer visits.

Don’t miss the easy Johnston Canyon walk or canoeing on Bow River.

Remember to bring your passport and exchange currency beforehand.

The park’s stunning mountain backdrop creates unforgettable family memories at a fraction of resort costs.

Lake District, England

Where else can you find dramatic fells, pristine lakes, and centuries-old stone cottries all within a compact area that’s perfect for family camping adventures? The Lake District delivers all this without breaking your budget.

You’ll discover numerous family-friendly campsites scattered throughout Cumbria, many offering affordable rates and stunning views.

Your kids will love splashing in Lake Windermere or conquering gentler peaks like Catbells. Don’t miss the steam trains at Ravenglass or exploring Beatrix Potter‘s world in Near Sawrey.

Pack waterproofs—English weather’s unpredictable, but that adds to the adventure.

Most campsites provide essential facilities, and local shops stock camping supplies.

Book ahead during summer holidays, but shoulder seasons offer better rates and fewer crowds while maintaining the area’s magical charm.

If you’re planning to bring your four-legged family member along, remember that camping with dogs requires extra preparation to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

How do you combine rugged coastline, ancient rainforests, and iconic limestone formations into one unforgettable family camping road trip? You’ll find your answer along Australia’s Great Ocean Road. This 243-kilometer stretch offers budget-friendly camping at spots like Princetown Recreation Reserve and Port Campbell Recreation Reserve, where you’ll pay minimal fees for prime coastal locations.

Your kids will love spotting koalas at Kennett River and exploring the Twelve Apostles. Set up base camps at Apollo Bay or Lorne, then take day trips to inland attractions like Otway National Park‘s canopy walks.

Pack plenty of sunscreen and rain gear—weather changes quickly here. Book campsites ahead during summer holidays, and don’t forget your camera for those dramatic clifftop sunset shots. For adventurous families seeking an extra challenge, the coastal cliffs provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing with proper safety equipment and guidance.

Torres Del Paine National Park, Chile

If you’re seeking one of South America’s most spectacular camping experiences, Torres del Paine National Park delivers towering granite spires, turquoise lakes, and glacial valleys that’ll leave your family speechless.

You’ll find well-maintained campgrounds like Las Torres and Cuernos that offer basic facilities without breaking the bank.

Pack warm layers since Patagonian weather changes rapidly.

Your kids will love spotting guanacos, foxes, and condors along easier trails like Mirador Base Las Torres.

The park’s day hikes work perfectly for families, letting you experience incredible scenery without committing to multi-day treks.

Book campsites months ahead during peak season (December-February).

Consider visiting during shoulder months for fewer crowds and lower prices while still enjoying decent weather conditions.

If you’re planning to explore the nearby fjords and lakes, research whether renting or buying a boat makes more sense for your family’s adventure timeline and budget.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Why settle for ordinary wildlife viewing when Kruger National Park offers your family front-row seats to Africa’s Big Five from your own campsite? You’ll find twelve rest camps with camping facilities, complete with communal kitchens, ablution blocks, and fenced perimeters for safety. Book early since sites fill up quickly, especially during school holidays.

Your kids will love spotting elephants, lions, and rhinos during self-drive game tours. Pack your own food and cook at camp to save money – restaurant meals add up fast. Choose camps like Skukuza or Lower Sabie for better wildlife viewing and amenities.

Don’t forget malaria prophylaxis and insect repellent. Entry fees run about $25 per adult daily, making it Africa’s most affordable Big Five experience for families. Be prepared for encounters with biting insects and other creatures that are common in African wilderness camping environments.

Acadia National Park, United States

Trading African savannas for Maine’s rugged coastline, Acadia National Park delivers family camping adventures where crashing waves replace roaring lions as your nighttime soundtrack. You’ll find Blackwoods and Seawall campgrounds offering affordable sites just minutes from iconic Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole.

Your kids will love tide pooling at Bar Harbor, discovering starfish and hermit crabs without spending a dime. Pack bikes for the carriage roads—22 miles of car-free paths perfect for family cycling. Don’t miss the easy Ocean Path trail, where you’ll witness Maine’s dramatic granite cliffs and lighthouse views.

Book Blackwoods five months ahead for summer visits, as it fills quickly. Seawall operates first-come, first-served, making it budget-friendly for spontaneous trips. Both campgrounds provide restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings. This destination perfectly embodies why family camping creates unbeatable adventures that bring everyone together in nature’s playground.

Swiss National Park, Switzerland

Where else can your family wake up to snow-capped peaks and spot ibex grazing outside your tent? Swiss National Park delivers alpine magic without breaking the bank.

You’ll find designated camping areas near the park entrance, though wild camping isn’t permitted inside park boundaries.

Book accommodations in nearby Zernez or S-chanf for budget-friendly options. The park’s well-marked trails suit families with kids aged 8 and up.

Don’t miss the Champlönch circuit trail—it’s perfect for spotting marmots and golden eagles.

Pack layers since mountain weather changes quickly. Your camping gear should include warm sleeping bags rated for cool nights.

Entry fees are minimal, making this Switzerland’s most affordable national park experience.

Plan three days minimum to truly appreciate the stunning Engadin Valley scenery.

When selecting your specific camping spot within the designated areas, consider factors like terrain drainage and proximity to facilities to ensure a comfortable family experience.

Yosemite National Park, United States

How can towering granite cliffs and thundering waterfalls transform your family’s camping adventure? You’ll discover the answer at Yosemite National Park, where iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome create unforgettable backdrops for your campsite.

Reserve your spot early—Yosemite’s campgrounds fill up months in advance. Upper Pines and Bridalveil Creek offer family-friendly amenities without breaking the bank. You’ll pay around $36 per night for developed sites.

Planning ahead is essential for Yosemite camping—these popular family campgrounds book up months in advance at just $36 nightly.

Pack layers since temperatures vary dramatically between valley floor and higher elevations. Don’t miss easy family hikes to Mirror Lake or the paved trail to Lower Yosemite Fall.

Your kids will love spotting black bears from a safe distance and watching rock climbers scale granite walls. Free ranger programs provide educational entertainment that won’t cost extra.

With the current economic conditions creating opportunities for RV dealers, families might find favorable pricing on recreational vehicles that can enhance their Yosemite camping experience.

Jasper National Park, Canada

Just north of the border, Jasper National Park delivers Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain wilderness right to your family’s tent door. You’ll find eleven campgrounds with options from basic tent sites to RV hookups, keeping costs reasonable at around $28-38 CAD per night.

Your kids will love spotting elk wandering through Whistlers Campground while you cook dinner. The Maligne Lake boat tour‘s worth the splurge – it’s the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Pack layers since mountain weather changes quickly, and don’t forget bear spray for hiking trails.

The SkyTram offers stunning valley views without exhausting little legs. Book campsites early through Parks Canada’s reservation system, especially for summer visits.

Jasper’s wildlife viewing beats most zoos, and your family memories won’t break the bank. For families seeking an elevated camping experience, consider caravan camping adventures that provide comfortable mobile accommodations while still keeping you close to nature’s wonders.

New Forest National Park, England

While England mightn’t scream “wilderness adventure,” New Forest National Park will surprise your family with free-roaming ponies, ancient woodlands, and some of the UK’s most affordable camping. You’ll find over 20 campsites charging £15-25 per night, making this a budget-friendly European escape.

New Forest delivers unexpected wilderness thrills with wild ponies and ancient woodlands at just £15-25 per night.

Your kids will love spotting wild ponies wandering freely through villages and camping areas. Pack bikes to explore 100 miles of cycling paths connecting charming towns like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst. The park’s 150 square miles offer endless hiking trails through heathland and forest.

Choose established campsites with facilities or wild camping spots (with landowner permission). Book early for summer visits, especially near Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum.

Train connections from London make car-free camping possible, saving money on ferry crossings. For families following plant-based diets, New Forest offers excellent opportunities for vegan-friendly camping with its proximity to towns that stock specialty foods and local farmers’ markets.

Blue Mountains, Australia

Why settle for ordinary camping when the Blue Mountains offer dramatic cliff-top sites just 90 minutes from Sydney? You’ll find budget-friendly campgrounds like Blackheath Glen Tourist Park, where powered sites cost around $35 nightly and kids love the playground.

Set up base near Katoomba to explore Three Sisters rock formation—it’s free and perfect for family photos. The scenic railway and skyway cost extra, but bushwalking trails won’t cost you anything.

Pack layers since mountain temperatures drop markedly at night, even in summer.

Don’t miss Echo Point lookout at sunrise when crowds are minimal. Your kids can spot lyrebirds and wallabies on easy walking tracks. Book ahead during school holidays when Sydney families escape to these cooler highlands for affordable outdoor adventures.

For adventurous families seeking more challenging terrain, consider exploring the US’s premier glacier climbing trails which offer a completely different mountain experience from Australia’s temperate highlands.

Zion National Park, United States

Where else can your family witness towering red cliffs that dwarf New York skyscrapers while camping for under $30 per night? Zion National Park delivers jaw-dropping scenery without breaking your budget.

You’ll find three campgrounds within the park, with Watchman and South offering reservable sites year-round. Riverside Walk provides an easy trail perfect for kids, while older children can tackle the thrilling Narrows hike through ankle-deep river water.

Book your campsite six months ahead—Zion’s popularity means spots disappear fast. Pack layers since desert temperatures swing dramatically between day and night. Don’t forget water shoes for river hikes and plenty of sunscreen.

The park’s shuttle system eliminates parking headaches, letting your family focus on exploring slot canyons and spotting wildlife together. Beyond camping, families can explore some of the world’s best hiking trails that showcase Zion’s incredible geological formations and diverse ecosystems.

Algonquin Provincial Park, Canada

How can your family experience pristine wilderness, spot moose from your tent, and paddle crystal-clear lakes for less than the cost of a hotel night? Algonquin Provincial Park delivers all this at budget-friendly rates.

Experience authentic Canadian wilderness, moose sightings, and crystal-clear paddling adventures for less than a single hotel night at Algonquin Provincial Park.

You’ll find over 2,400 lakes and countless hiking trails perfect for kids. The park’s interior campsites, accessible only by canoe, offer true wilderness camping starting at $14 per night. Front-country sites with facilities cost around $50 nightly.

Your children will love the visitor center’s interactive exhibits and evening wolf howls. Pack bug spray – black flies peak in late spring. Rent canoes on-site or bring your own.

Book early, especially for summer weekends. This Ontario gem provides authentic Canadian wilderness without breaking your vacation budget. Don’t forget to pack a reliable camping lantern for those memorable evenings around the campsite when darkness falls.

Sum Up

You’ll find that families who camp together create 40% more lasting memories than those who stick to hotels. These 14 destinations won’t break the bank either – camping costs roughly 60% less than traditional accommodations. Pack your gear, book those reservations early, and don’t overthink it. Whether you’re chasing geysers in Yellowstone or exploring Australia’s coastline, you’re giving your family experiences that’ll spark adventure stories for years. Start planning your next outdoor escape today.