Every year, families, couples, and friends across the U.S. gear up for a festive Fourth of July weekend under the stars. Whether you’re drawn to beachfront fireworks, nationally acclaimed RV resorts, or unforgettable rustic escapes, there’s a perfect camping spot for you. Here are some of the best campsites worth booking now.
1. Tomales Bay – Kayak‑In Beach Camping (Point Reyes National Seashore, CA)
A truly unique escape, this beach campground is accessible only by kayak. Paddle across Tomales Bay and land on Pelican North Beach, your private paradise accented with wildlife, tidal rhythm—and sometimes bioluminescence after dark. Without amenities, bring your own water, firewood, and bear-safe food storage—but the trade‑off is solitude, starry skies, and a peaceful July Fourth away from the crowds. Permits are required and sites are first‑come, first‑serve, so book early and launch at dawn to avoid wind and tide issues.
2. Jellystone Parks & KOA Holiday Resorts – Family‑Fun Festivities
For campers looking for classic flair with structured fun, Jellystone and KOA holiday parks go all out:
-
Jellystone Park in Carsonville, MI: Flag‑raising with Yogi Bear, patriotic parades, crafts, and fireworks on Saturday night.
-
Colorado Springs KOA Holiday: Flag‑craft stations, pet‑friendly parades, BBQs, face‑painting, outdoor movies, and fireworks.
-
Angola/Hogback Lake KOA Holiday, IN: Wagon rides, cornhole tournaments, arts and crafts, and evening fireworks.
These parks offer full hookups, restrooms, swimming pools, and themed activities—perfect for kids and parents alike.
3. Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort (Bar Harbor, ME)
This scenic waterfront resort offers camping near Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Expect coastal hikes, lobster dinners, and a fireworks display with sunset over Frenchman Bay. RV hookups, showers, and resort amenities make it ideal for comfort seekers and those who want easy access to iconic Maine beauty.
4. Port Crescent State Park (Michigan) – Newly Renovated Lake Huron Gem
Reopened after a major renovation, Port Crescent now offers full‑hookup campsites, upgraded utilities, and improved day‑use amenities. Located on Lake Huron near Saginaw Bay, this park blends stargazing, hiking, and beachside calm. It’s ideal for Great Lakes fireworks viewing and leisurely, family‑friendly July events.
5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (MI) – Iconic Shoreline Camping
Named "America’s Most Beautiful Place," Sleeping Bear Dunes offers multiple campgrounds along Lake Michigan:
-
D.H. Day Campground: Wooded sites with beach access—generators allowed at some spots.
-
Platte River Campground: Variety of hookups and hike‑in options.
-
Manitou Islands: For backcountry adventurers, rustic campsites with island charm.
Expect dramatic sunsets over the dunes and festive shoreline fireworks—just be sure your reservation spans the busy Fourth weekend.
6. Dispersed Camping in National Forests & BLM Lands
For a more rustic, crowd‑free July 4th, consider dispersed camping on national forest or Bureau of Land Management land. Without facilities like toilets or showers, this primitive camping offers true solitude. It’s often more flexible than parks with timed entries and is perfect for folks planning hikes, riverside relaxation, or DIY campfire cookouts. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check specific land use rules before you go.
7. Bridgman Area (Lake Michigan, MI) – Relaxed Lakeside Camping
Trending for the July Fourth weekend, Bridgman (near Warren Dunes State Park) offers beachfront camping, brewery visits, and small‑town charm:
-
Mustang Sally’s Park: Woodsy privacy, playgrounds, and volleyball.
-
Willow Shores Campground: Beach, boat launch, store, and kid‑friendly amenities.
Ideal for families that want easy access to lake swimming, dunes, and a classic Fourth of July atmosphere.
🎆 Booking Tips & Safety Reminders
-
Reserve early – Most parks fill within 10–14 days of the holiday.
-
Consider alternatives – County and city parks are often less crowded than state and national parks.
-
Pack smart – Bring firewood, extra water, earplugs, camp chairs, and festive Fourth of July gear.
-
Follow Leave No Trace – Especially important in primitive or dispersed settings.
-
Check local fireworks rules – Some parks restrict personal fireworks, so plan accordingly.
Making the Fourth of July Magical
Whether you’re launching fireworks from a secluded peninsula, enjoying a campground parade with your pup, or sharing firelight with new friends by the lake, it’s the memories that make this weekend special.
From luxury RV resorts to rustic kayak‑in beaches and family‑friendly parks, these top venues offer the best of nature, fireworks, and American spirit. But don’t delay—sites vanish fast.
Book your ideal Fourth of July campground now, and get ready to salute under the stars!