Camping has truly become an all year round activity. People are not letting the cooler climate put them off. America has some truly stunning places where you can pitch up a tent or take your caravan. Hiking, waterfalls, wildlife and mule rides await those who want to venture out. But plan early, December is a popular time to go.
You can camp all over the US in December. From the Everglades National Park, Florida to Upper Pines campground in California. There are many options for all sorts of winter campers. Be sure to plan ahead and find one that is open during the winter months. You may find locations have limited services so pack accordingly.
There are so many campgrounds to choose from, but I wanted to focus on five special places you can visit this December. I’ve thrown in a few extra places for you to think about too.
Watching the Wildlife in Florida’s Winter Camping Wonderland (Everglades National Park – Flamingo Campground)
Activities – You won’t be bored at Flamingo Campground. Check out guided boat tours that glide through the Everglades. You’ll see alligators, manatees, and incredible bird species. Have you always wanted to take an airboat? Now is the time, it is a thrilling way to see the swamp. Also, consider kayaking through the mangrove to get closer to the action .
Accommodation – The campground has campsites and cabins. You’ll find basic amenities. The overnight guided camping trip is a real treat, it is a chance to get close to the wildlife. Book in advance. The National Park Service website has more details about amenities open in December.
Nearby Attractions – Take a tram tour or go on a hiking trail to spot an alligator or two. Visit the Shark Valley Visitor Center to book your tickets. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has diving and snorkeling opportunities. This is a weather permitting activity.
Gazing at Stars in the Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon National Park – Mather Campground)
Activities – The clear winters skies are a perfect opportunity for stargazing. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is an excellent vantage point. Learn more with ranger-led astronomy programs. They’ll discuss constellations and all the celestial beauty. Hike to a variety of viewpoints such as Mather Point or Yavapai Point. It is all worth it for breathtaking night views.
Accommodation – Mather Campground is great for year-round camping but it does have a limited service in winter. Bring plenty of gear to make your stay manageable. You may need to make reservations six months in advance, so plan early. The National Park Service will help with your planning.
If you want more than the basics you can book a room nearby. The Grand Canyon Village will make your stay more relaxing. There are shops and restaurants close by.
Nearby Attractions – The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a great source of information. You can learn about the canyon’s geology and history. Mule rides are available. They’ll take you down into the canyon, experience unique views. Again, book early so you are not disappointed.
Incredible Winter Photography Adventure in Yosemite Valley (Yosemite National Park – Upper Pines Campground)
Activities – Don’t miss the chance to capture incredible winter landscapes. Yosemite Valley contains snow-capped peaks, frozen waterfalls, and stunning rock formations. Experience some of the best hiking on the planet, trek to viewpoints such as Glacier Point and Tunnel View. The worst photographer couldn’t take a bad picture here. You’ll have the chance to take advantage of long shadows and clear skies that come with the winter months.
Accommodation – In Upper Pines Campground you’ll find basic campsites in winter. There are more comfortable winter cabins and vacation rentals in Yosemite Valley. But if you ask me, I still think you should pitch your tent. Winter camping is a wonderful experience done right. Recreation.gov has more details.
Nearby Attractions – Pay a visit to Yosemite Valley Lodge for winter activities. If it’s suitably cold you will be able to go snowshoeing and skating. There are ranger-led photography walks to help you capture the perfect picture. You’ll want to bring back some of Yosemite’s beauty.
Wilderness Winter Camping in the Smokies (Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Elkmont Campground)
Activities – Elkmont Campground is the starting point for your wilderness camping adventure. The Great Smoky Mountains lay before you. I hope you like hiking. You’ll have to hike to designated wilderness campsites that offer magnificent scenery. You can go snowshoeing on designed trails. This is a unique and wonderful way to explore the park.
Accommodation – Many winter campsites are quite basic and Elkmont campground is no different. No worries, just pack the proper winter camping gear. There are 212 campsites to choose from, but they may not all be open in December.
Also, make sure you obtain a permit, it’s necessary for this kind of camping. Camping in these parts is recommended for experienced campers, so keep that in mind when choosing this winter destination. For more details check out Recreation.gov.
Nearby Attractions – You’ll want to head for Clingmans Dome Observation Tower to experience an incredible panoramic view of the Smokies. (weather permitting) Go for a wonderful scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and see beautiful winter vistas.
Budget-Friendly Option – A Winter Getaway in Big Bend National Park (Chisos Basin Campground)
Activities – Chisos Basin Campground cheaper and warmer option compared to other places on this list. Temperatures average 59.4°F in December so you don’t have to worry about buying a 4-season tent.
Big Bend National Park has scenic trails like Lost Mine and South Rim. Highly recommended for breathtaking views of the mountains. The Park is cherished by birdwatchers due to the number of unique species that live in the Chihuahuan Desert. Make sure you are up to it, South Rim is particularly strenuous.
Accommodation – Chisos Basin Campground offers basic campsites at a more affordable rate compared to some other national park campgrounds in winter. Contact the National Park Service website to learn more about winter accommodation.
Nearby Attractions and amenities – Trek on over to the Chisos Basin Visitor Center. The center will help you to do the following:
- You’ll be able to obtain the backcountry and river use permits. Just turn up during regular business hours.
- You can pay the entrance fees at the center.
- Additional amenities include a bookstore, restrooms, and even a water faucet on the building’s eastside. Great for refilling your water bottle.
You must go for a scenic drive along Ross Maxwell to see the stunning desert landscapes.
Table 1. Best Places to Camp in December in America
| Location | Weather Conditions | Campground Facilities | Activities and Attractions | Reservation Requirements |
| Upper Pines Campground, Yosemite Valley, CA | Mild days (around 50°F), cold nights (around 20°F), possible rain/snow | Flush toilets, some sites with showers, limited firewood sales | Hiking, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, waterfalls | Reservation required well in advance (especially for December) |
| Mather Campground, Grand Canyon South Rim, AZ | Cool days (around 40°F), cold nights (around 30°F), snow possible | Flush toilets, availability of showers may vary by site, laundry facilities (availability may vary), firewood sales | Hiking, scenic viewpoints, mule rides, ranger talks | Reservations highly recommended, may be required for some sites |
| Chisos Basin Campground, Big Bend National Park, TX | Mild days (around 60°F), cool nights (around 40°F), rain possible | Flush toilets, some sites with showers, limited firewood sales | Hiking, scenic viewpoints, wildlife viewing, stargazing | Reservations strongly recommended, especially for weekends |
| Flamingo Campground, Everglades National Park, FL | Warm days (around 75°F), mild nights (around 60°F) | Flush toilets, showers, laundry facilities, marina store | Boating, canoeing, fishing, wildlife viewing | Reservations recommended, some sites first-come, first-served |
| Elkmont Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN & NC | Cool days (around 40°F), cold nights (around 20°F), rain/snowlikely | Vault toilets, no showers, limited firewood sales | Hiking, waterfalls, scenic drives, historical sites | Reservations required (especially for December) |
Winter Weather Considerations for Campers – Beyond the Averages
The table above provides the average temperatures for our campgrounds in December. They’ll give you a good idea of what to expect, but averages only tell part of the story. You’ll be just fine if you are relaxing in Florida this December. But if you choose some of the other destinations it’s good to think about things beyond the average temperatures.
Wind chill – The wind chill factor is how cold you really feel. It takes into consideration the air temperature and wind speed. Wind quickly takes away heat from your body. Consequently we feel much colder.
Impact – I love crisp cold days with blue skies. But a cold cloudy day when the wind picks up is another matter. Manageable temperatures become a challenge when the wind chill kicks in. If the air temperature is 20°F, it’ll actually feel like -5°F with 15 mph winds.
Preparation – The solution is to layer up. Use good windproof outer clothing. Also, a great investment is a mask or buff. Your exposed skin will thank you for it.
Snowfall Expectations
Amount – Check out the snowfall averages. You’ll be able to assess the potential for heavy snow or just a light dusting. It’s good to be prepared for more than the average, especially if you are camping at a higher elevation.
Impact – Heavy snowfall could be a dealbreaker. Travel will range from difficult to impossible. Access to facilities and amenities will be extremely limited. The risk of avalanches will be a serious possibility in some areas.
Preparation – Rent or buy snowshoes or gaiters for deep snow. It is possible to check avalanche forecasts. It’s good to know before you travel if you are in an avalanche-prone area. Do your research, know how to identify avalanche terrain and take adequate precautions.
Possible Winter Weather Emergencies
Blizzards – Blizzards are a warning to get inside. These severe storms are a combination of high winds, heavy snowfall, and very little visibility. Travel is almost impossible. They create dangerous whiteout conditions.
Ice storms – Freezing rain is not fun. It coats trees and power lines. They become iced up. This leads to power outages and falling branches. Walking on ice is an extremely hazardous undertaking. Be careful!
Flash Floods – If the temperature heats up rapid snow melting is possible. Heavy rain is not uncommon in December. All this can cause flooding. Areas that don’t typically experience floods could be susceptible.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Stay Informed – Keep a close eye on the weather forecast – before and during your trip. Take advantage of park visitor centers. They contain a wealth of knowledge you should tap into.
Pack an Emergency Kit – A good kit should contain extra warm clothing, an emergency shelter (bivy sack), plenty of high-calorie foods, headlamps with extra batteries, a good first-aid kit, and some kind of fire starter. A personal locator beacon (PLB) could be a lifesaver, but they aren’t cheap.
Have a Backup Plan – Nothing wrong with plan B or plan C and D. If the weather forecast points to deteriorating conditions be prepared to change your plans and leave the area. Always choose safety over sticking around in dangerous weather.
Remember – I feel I may have terrified you all to death. I don’t want to put anyone off. Winter camping is a wonderful experience, but there is more to consider than camping during spring break.
Winter weather does change rapidly at times. By understanding the possibilities you’ll be prepared for any potential emergencies. Ensure you stay safe and you’ll have an enjoyable winter camping adventure.
Study the NWS Wind Chill Chart. It’ll give you a better understanding of wind chill factor.
Alternative Winter Camping Gems
The five campgrounds are immensely popular, places like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon are iconic for a reason. But you will probably have to book months in advance if you want to camp there in December. So I have compiled a list of alternatives. Let’s venture to other state parks, national forests and lesser-known places. You’ll still find incredible scenery, lots of winter activities, and in some cases, a chance to escape the crowds.
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
Now this is something different. How do you feel about sprawling sand dunes blanketed in snow? Great Sand Dunes National Park is a magical winter wonderland. You’ll find a stargazers paradise due to minimal light pollution. The dunes are great for sandboarding, sledding, and snowshoeing.
Read the official visitor info at Colorado.com
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
This beauty is located in southeastern Ohio. Hocking Hills State park offers rock formations and picturesque waterfalls. Witness frozen gorges in winter. You’ll be able to hike through a winter wonderland, from snow-covered cliffs to frozen waterfalls. The park is full of rustic cabins and cottages offering a more snug and toasty experience than tent camping. There is also a campsite for pitching your tent, just be aware it is first come first served. The Hocking Hills website allows you to research and choose the best place to stay.
Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina & Tennessee
Nantahala National Forest isn’t small! It spans two states. You’ll witness a diverse landscape full of forests, mountains, and cascading waterfalls. In December, a snowy heaven awaits. Find some snowshoes, go cross-country skiing, and enjoy all those mountain views.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center will give you more details about activities and lodging in winter.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
Some people say the Black Canyon is not for the faint of heart in winter. The conditions do create a challenge and may only be suitable for experienced winter campers. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a unique experience. You’ll witness dramatic canyon walls dusted with snow. The impressive bighorn sheep will be wandering around too. They’ll be quite indifferent to the harsh winter conditions.
Please Note – Black Canyon usually experiences serious snowfall and requires advanced winter camping skills and knowledge. If you don’t have them don’t go, unless you are traveling with an experienced friend. Always check weather conditions before camping here in December.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Welcome to the Badlands! There is nothing bad about the rugged landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in Winter. It’s all good in fact. You’ll have a chance to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife watching. Be witness to herds of bison roaming through the snow-covered plains. Just keep your distance.
If you want to see the wildlife this is the place for you. It’ll be an unforgettable experience. You can’t actually camp in the park. Lodging is available in the nearby communities.
Remember, do your research, check out the links to give you the lowdown. You’ll want to know about winter camping regulations, permitted areas and if you require a permit. There could be some challenging weather to contend with, so make sure you have the appropriate gear and skills.
What do the experts say?
The Mountaineers – Mountaineering Essentials for Everyone
“Winter camping offers a unique opportunity to experience the peace and solitude of the backcountry in a completely different light. The crisp air, the sparkling snow, and the absence of crowds can be truly magical.”
The Dyrt – The Ultimate Guide to Winter Camping
“The key to a successful winter camping trip is preparation. Proper gear, knowledge of winter camping techniques, and an understanding of the risks involved are all essential.”
REI – Winter Camping and Backpacking Basics: “Winter camping can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s not for everyone. If you’re new to camping, it’s best to start with some car camping trips in milder weather before venturing out into the winter.”
Conclusion
Camping in December will give you a chance to experience beauty and tranquility. You’ll see life in a new light. Winter camping requires more preparation than summer camping, so get planning. Amazing snowy landscapes and crisp air will help create an unforgettable adventure. Now get your gear, do your research, and embrace the cold!
Don’t delay, start planning your winter escape now! Here are some resources to help you get started:
Articles and Resources
The Dyrt – The Ultimate Guide to Winter Camping:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-third-of-campers-now-camp-in-winter-says-new-data-from-the-dyrt-302005727.html This comprehensive guide from The Dyrt covers everything from essential gear to campsite selection and winter camping techniques.
REI – Winter Camping and Backpacking Basics:
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/winter-camping.html This REI article provides a great introduction to winter camping, including tips on staying warm, choosing the right gear, and planning your trip.
Leave No Trace – Winter Camping:
https://lnt.org/research-resources/winter-recreation/ The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics offers essential principles for minimizing your impact on the environment while winter camping.
MyLifeOutdoors – 10 Winter Camping Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJuN9W6UAgs This National Geographic article explores common mistakes made by winter campers and how to avoid them, offering valuable insights for safe and enjoyable winter adventures.