10 Best Destinations for Your Next Boating, Camping & Hiking Adventure
Combining boating, camping, and hiking into one trip offers a unique way to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the best of multiple outdoor activities. Whether you’re navigating pristine waters, setting up camp under the stars, or hiking rugged trails, these ten destinations are perfect for your next all-in-one adventure.
1. Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona
Lake Powell is a vast reservoir on the Colorado River, offering stunning red rock cliffs, hidden canyons, and over 2,000 miles of shoreline for boaters. For camping, there are plenty of lakeside sites, and you can hike nearby Antelope Canyon or explore Glen Canyon.
- Boating: Boat rentals start at $200/day for motorboats.
- Camping: Wahweap RV & Campground offers spots starting at $30/night.
- Hiking: Antelope Canyon tour costs about $75/person.
2. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Located in northern Minnesota, Voyageurs is accessible primarily by water, making it a perfect spot for combining boating and camping. The park features remote campsites accessible only by boat and offers plenty of hiking trails, including the Kab-Ash Trail, a challenging 26-mile trek through forests and wetlands.
- Boating: Canoe and kayak rentals start at $50/day.
- Camping: Free with park entry (requires boat transport).
- Hiking: Free; park entry costs $15/car for seven days.
3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah is renowned for its scenic beauty. While boating isn’t permitted directly within the park, nearby Shenandoah River offers boating opportunities, and the park itself has over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.
- Boating: Rentals for the Shenandoah River start at $65/day for kayaks.
- Camping: Big Meadows Campground offers sites starting at $30/night.
- Hiking: Free with park entry ($30/car for seven days).
4. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia, located along the rugged coastline of Maine, is perfect for a boating, camping, and hiking trip. Explore its fjords, coves, and offshore islands by boat, then camp in one of the park’s scenic campgrounds. Don’t miss the hike up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Atlantic Coast.
- Boating: Kayak rentals start at $40/day.
- Camping: Blackwoods Campground sites start at $22/night.
- Hiking: Free with park entry ($30/vehicle for seven days).
5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe offers crystal-clear waters ideal for boating, coupled with dozens of scenic hiking trails and campgrounds. Hike the Tahoe Rim Trail for sweeping vistas or paddle around the lake’s numerous beaches and coves.
- Boating: Pontoon boat rentals start at $300/day.
- Camping: D.L. Bliss State Park campground starts at $35/night.
- Hiking: Free; no park entry fees.
6. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park boasts one of the most diverse ecosystems in the U.S., featuring lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and glacier-capped mountains. Boating is possible in Lake Crescent or coastal areas, while the park’s hiking trails offer routes through stunning rainforests and alpine regions.
- Boating: Canoe rentals at Lake Crescent start at $40/day.
- Camping: Fairholme Campground sites start at $24/night.
- Hiking: Free with park entry ($30/car for seven days).
7. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota
For those seeking a more remote experience, the Boundary Waters offers a vast network of interconnected lakes and rivers, perfect for paddling adventures. The area is also home to numerous campsites and hiking trails, giving you the freedom to create your own adventure itinerary.
- Boating: Canoe rentals start at $50/day.
- Camping: Free with permits, which start at $10 per group.
- Hiking: Free with park permits.
8. Lake Champlain, Vermont/New York
Lake Champlain spans the border of Vermont and New York and offers great opportunities for boaters and campers alike. In addition to boating, there are plenty of hiking trails, including those at nearby Adirondack Park and Green Mountain National Forest.
- Boating: Sailboat rentals start at $250/day.
- Camping: Button Bay State Park campsites start at $22/night.
- Hiking: Free; trails in the nearby Adirondacks and Green Mountains have no entry fees.
9. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is known for its rugged desert landscapes and the Rio Grande River, which offers excellent boating opportunities. The park’s campsites offer breathtaking night skies, while hiking options range from easy desert walks to challenging mountain climbs.
- Boating: Canoe rentals for the Rio Grande start at $45/day.
- Camping: Cottonwood Campground sites start at $16/night.
- Hiking: Free with park entry ($30/vehicle for seven days).
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
With its alpine lakes, dramatic peaks, and abundant wildlife, Glacier National Park is a must-visit for boating, camping, and hiking enthusiasts. Lake McDonald is perfect for a day of kayaking, and the park offers a range of hiking trails for all skill levels.
- Boating: Kayak rentals start at $35/day at Lake McDonald.
- Camping: Apgar Campground sites start at $20/night.
- Hiking: Free with park entry ($35/vehicle for seven days).
Final Thoughts
When planning your next boating, camping, and hiking adventure, these ten destinations provide something for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the outdoor scene, these locations offer memorable experiences with breathtaking views and a variety of activities. Be sure to plan ahead, check local regulations, and prepare adequately for your trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Happy Boating!
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