New England is basically awful for camping, says ‘Best States for Camping’ list
California has claimed the title of America's premier camping destination in a new report, despite ranking last for safety among all 50 states.
New England states, meanwhile, didn't fare so well, as just one of the six states made it into the Top 25 and half were bottom-dwellers.
The Golden State secured the top spot in Lawn Love's 2025 camping rankings released ahead of National Camp Day. The report evaluated states across 21 metrics including campsite access, quality, supplies, safety and affordability.
California's diverse landscapes propelled it to first place, offering campers a variety of environments to explore.
"You can be camping by the Big Sur coast one day, then waking up to the granite peaks in Yosemite the next day, and then even enjoying a quiet camping experience in the redwood forests in Northern California," said California-based travel writer Janice Lim.
However, the state's outdoor appeal comes with significant drawbacks. California recorded 317 national park deaths between 2014 and 2024, the highest in the nation. It also ranked poorly for affordability, placing 42nd nationwide.
Maine finished highest at No. 23, while Vermont checked in at 28. Rhode Island is the worst, at 50, while Connecticut (48) and Massachusetts (43) both landed in the bottom 10. New Hampshire ranked 38th.
Texas secured second place with high marks for quality and diverse terrain spanning from East Texas pine forests to Big Bend's desert cliffs. Florida took third, performing well in both quality and safety categories.
Michigan and Colorado completed the top five, with both states receiving high ratings for safety and camping access.
The report also identified shifting camping trends nationwide. While traditional self-sufficient camping remains popular, many modern outdoor enthusiasts now seek amenities like drinkable water, toilets and Wi-Fi. According to The Dyrt's 2025 Camping Report, more than half of campers struggled to book sites in 2024 due to increased demand.
Cost considerations vary significantly by location. The average nightly rate for a Hipcamp site across the U.S. stands at $62.39, with Hawaii commanding the highest prices at $93.91 per night. Budget-conscious campers might consider North Dakota, where sites average just $27.50 nightly.
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Generative AI was used to help produce this story, based on source material from Lawn Love. It was reviewed and edited by MassLive.
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