6 of the best fall camping destinations in America, plus gear beginners should pack

Fall is one of the best seasons for camping.

Summer crowds thin, there are fewer bugs, the air turns crisp and the foliage takes on vibrant shades of red and orange.

Cooler temperatures also make hiking, cooking and sleeping outdoors more comfortable — as long as you pack the right gear.

We rounded up the best fall camping destinations across the U.S., from sweeping mountain escapes to cozy coastal getaways, along with beginner-friendly camping gear to help you stay warm, comfortable and prepared.

Make the most of fall camping season at these popular destinations.

Acadia National Park , located in Maine, pairs classic New England foliage with the deep blue Atlantic.

Hike wooded trails, explore the scenic Park Loop Road and the carriage roads and take in views of the rugged coastline and pink granite mountains before settling in for a cozy night under the stars.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park bursts with fall color from maples, oaks, beeches and dogwoods.

Beginners can stay at established campgrounds, then spend the day exploring Newfound Gap Road or Cades Cove Loop Road for sweeping valley views, wildlife and more.

Shenandoah National Park treats campers to rolling auburn hills and seemingly endless valleys.

Drive along Skyline Drive, stop at one of its 75 overlooks, hike to waterfalls and explore forested sections of the Appalachian Trail while watching for deer and black bears.

You can’t get more dramatic than Rocky Mountain National Park, with its glassy alpine lakes, golden aspen trees and towering snow-tipped peaks that are especially striking in autumn.

Drive along Trail Ridge Road and Bear Lake Road for peak scenery, view the elk rut, hike in Glacier Gorge and enjoy the cool, fresh mountain air.

Campers seeking a quiet, cozy escape will love the Adirondacks and Catskills.