5 Best Camping Destinations for Late Summer Family Getaways

August is here already! It feels like just yesterday that summer began. Even though late summer is now upon us, it's still an incredible time to explore camping destinations in scenic locales. Check out our recommendations for where to enjoy some quality time with family or a romantic retreat for two before summer ends.

1. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Mountains are a natural treasure of America, offering rugged hills and ancient forests. For a stunning experience, take the Blue Ridge Parkway up to Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi River. Other attractions in the area include:

• Soco Falls
• Pinnacle Park
• Museum of the Cherokee People
• Biltmore Estate
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Sun Retreats Nantahala provides excellent accommodations in Sylva, North Carolina, with RV sites, tent sites, and vacation rentals. The charming Main Street in Sylva features quirky shops and eateries, making it a perfect camping destination.

2. Quad Cities, Iowa and Illinois

High on the banks of the Mississippi River lie the Quad Cities, comprised of Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Rock Island and Moline in Illinois. Known for their vibrant culture, the Quad Cities offer numerous attractions:

• Figge Art Museum
• Putnam Museum and Science Center
• Vander Veer Botanical Park
• John Deere Pavilion

Just east of the Quad Cities is Sun Retreats Rock River, a family-friendly resort featuring an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and miniature golf. Rent canoes or paddle boats to enjoy the river, making this a great family camping destination.

3. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod ranks high among the best camping destinations, especially in late summer. The Cape Cod National Seashore features 40 miles of stunning beaches, including the popular Race Point Beach. Other activities include:

• Cycling the Shining Sea Bikeway or Cape Cod Rail Trail
• Visiting the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
• Taking a ferry to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket

For a memorable stay, Sun Retreats Cape Cod in East Falmouth offers 55 acres of pine forest, complete with RV sites, tent sites, and cabin rentals. Enjoy amenities like three swimming pools and a private beach, making it an idyllic camping getaway.

4. Old Orchard Beach, Maine

For laidback vibes and family fun, head to Old Orchard Beach, Maine. Known locally as OOB, this seaside town features The Pier on the Atlantic Ocean, offering restaurants, comedy clubs, and scenic views. Family-friendly attractions include:

• Palace Playland (a beachfront amusement park)
• Nearby water parks: Aquaboggan and Funtown Splashtown USA

Located just 20 miles south of historic Portland, Maine, you can explore trendy neighborhoods and visit Fort Williams Park. Stay at Sun Outdoors Old Orchard Beach Downtown, a family-friendly resort just a mile from the beach, featuring a heated pool and café.

5. Mystic Seaport, Connecticut

Step back in time in Mystic, Connecticut, famous for Mystic Pizza. The highlight is Mystic Seaport, a recreated 19th-century village that features the Treworgy Planetarium. Other local attractions include:

• Savoring pizza at Mystic Pizza
• Cruising Mystic Harbor with Argia Mystic Cruises
• Visiting Mystic Aquarium and shopping at Olde Mistick Village

Sun Outdoors Mystic is a wonderful camping option, offering RV and tent sites with amenities like miniature golf and a fishing pond, all just four miles from downtown Mystic.

Conclusion

Summer is ending soon, so be sure to plan your stay at these fantastic camping destinations before the season slips away. No matter which spot you choose, you're sure to have an incredible experience. Book your trip today and don't forget to share this post!

Related Posts

• How to Plan Your Perfect Getaway
• Plan a Long Weekend in Massachusetts
• How to Spend 5 Days in Maine