Looking to trade snow boots for sandals this winter? The United States offers plenty of stunning warm destinations where you can comfortably camp during the colder months.
From desert landscapes to coastal paradises, these locations are the perfect winter escapes with temperatures that’ll make your friends back home jealous. So pack your gear and get ready to discover some of the country’s most beautiful warm-weather camping spots.
1. Joshua Tree National Park, California
When winter’s got everyone else bundled up, Joshua Tree stays comfortably sunny with temps in the 60s and 70s. The park’s otherworldly landscape of twisted Joshua trees and massive boulder formations creates an epic backdrop for winter camping.
Rock climbers flock here, but there’s plenty of hiking, stargazing, and scrambling over rocks to keep you busy. The super-clear winter skies make it perfect for night photography, and you might catch the desert blooming if you time it right. Key’s View offers an incredible sunset spot where you can see all the way to Mexico on a clear day.
2. Sedona, Arizona
Trade snowy winters for Sedona’s red rock wonderland, where daytime temps hover in the pleasant mid-60s. The famous red rock formations look even more stunning against winter’s crisp blue skies, and the usual crowds thin out considerably.
You can spend your days hiking the extensive trail network (Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge are must-dos), mountain biking world-class single tracks, or joining a jeep tour through the rugged backcountry. When you’re done exploring, head into town for some gallery-hopping or grab a spot at one of the restaurants with epic patio views of those legendary sunset-painted rocks.
3. White Sands National Park, New Mexico
Many people overlook this, but White Sands National Park is easily one of the best places to camp in the winter. This stunning landscape offers a completely unique camping experience with its endless sea of white gypsum sand dunes.
Winter temperatures are mild and pleasant, typically reaching the 60s during the day. Visitors can rent sleds to surf down the pristine dunes or wander barefoot through the cool, powder-soft sand. The park really comes alive at sunset when the dunes take on pink and purple hues. Nighttime brings extraordinary stargazing opportunities in one of the darkest sky regions of the country. Photographers will have countless photo opportunities among the wave-like dunes and yucca plants.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration during the mild winter months, since temperatures usually stay in the comfortable 60s. Campers can base themselves at nearby state parks while exploring the region’s network of maritime forests and beaches.
Take a kayak through the peaceful salt marshes, go bird watching at the ACE Basin, or bike the historic downtown streets. The city’s famous restaurant scene and historic architecture are just minutes away from several excellent campgrounds. Ghost tours and oyster roasts make perfect evening activities after a day outside.
5. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Winter transforms this Gulf Coast paradise into a peaceful retreat with temperatures in the 60s and minimal crowds. The sugar-white beaches can be your private playground for shell collecting, fishing, and long walks along the shore. Gulf State Park offers excellent camping facilities with easy access to 28 miles of hiking and biking trails through coastal forests.
Nature lovers can spot migratory birds at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and the warm waters are great for kayaking and paddleboarding. Local seafood restaurants serve up fresh catches year-round.
6. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is one of the best places to camp in the winter because of its southern charm and outdoor activities. The mild 60-degree days are perfect for exploring the city’s historic squares and parks without enduring the typical summer humidity.
Nearby Skidaway Island State Park is perfect for scenic camping among Spanish moss-draped oaks. Visitors can kayak through serene salt marshes, bike along coastal trails, or spot wildlife like deer and fiddler crabs. The historic district is also just a short drive away, where you can join ghost tours, sample local cuisine, or stroll through Forsyth Park.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
Winter camping near the Big Easy means comfortable temperatures in the 60s and significantly fewer tourists. Bayou Segnette State Park is an excellent base camp just minutes from the French Quarter, where you can explore the swamps by kayak or join a guided airboat tour to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
The cooler weather is perfect for cycling through historic neighborhoods or taking walking tours of above-ground cemeteries. In the evening you can catch live jazz on Frenchmen Street or sampling Creole cuisine. Festival season kicks into high gear during winter months too!
8. Catalina Island, California
This Mediterranean-style paradise sits just off the Southern California coast, offering perfect winter camping temperatures in the mid-60s. Campers can choose from several scenic sites, including beachfront locations and mountain retreats.
The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours. You’ll also have a good chance of spotting the island’s famous bison, foxes, and eagles. Adventure seekers can tackle the Trans-Catalina Trail or try zip lining above the canyon. And if you want to hit the town, Avalon is the perfect spot for evening strolls and waterfront dining.
9. Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah
Here’s another great warm weather place to camp during the winter that many people don’t think of. Winter transforms this dramatic desert landscape into a peaceful sanctuary with comfortable daytime temperatures and stunning clear skies.
The famous overlook gives you breathtaking views of the Colorado River winding 2,000 feet below. It’s an amazing spot for sunrise shots of the snow-dusted La Sal Mountains contrasting with red rock canyons, so bring your camera! The park also has an extensive trail system with excellent mountain biking and hiking. The minimal light pollution creates perfect conditions for stargazing, and Moab is nearby if you want to branch out for some more adventures.
10. Monument Valley, Arizona
Winter brings a magical transformation to this iconic Southwest landscape. Daytime temperatures hover in the comfortable 50s, perfect for exploring the valley’s famous sandstone buttes. The Navajo Nation welcomes respectful visitors to camp among these sacred formations, and you can join guided tours to learn about Navajo culture and history while photographing the spectacular scenery.
Winter occasionally sprinkles snow across the desert floor, which is perfect if you’re looking to take some photos. Clear winter skies also provide exceptional stargazing experiences in this remote location.
11. Lake Corpus Christi, Texas
Winter is one of the best times to go camping at Lake Corpus Christi, with sunny days averaging in the 70s. The calm winter waters are perfect for fishing, with abundant bass and catfish.
The state park has some great camping facilities near prime fishing spots and boat ramps, and bird watchers can spot winter migrants along the shoreline trails. Take a peaceful kayak trip around the lake’s quiet coves or enjoy scenic bike rides through the park. Nearby Corpus Christi offers additional attractions for day trips.
12. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
This remote paradise, 70 miles west of Key West, offers an unforgettable winter camping experience that we recommend to anyone. Temperatures stay in the pleasant 70s which is perfect for just about anything you’d like to do.
We recommend camping on Garden Key near the historic Fort Jefferson, where you’ll be surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Winter also brings excellent conditions for snorkeling the pristine reefs, spotting sea turtles, and watching seabirds. The night sky puts on an incredible show with zero light pollution. Ferry services from Key West make this unique camping destination accessible for anyone who’s feeling adventurous.
13. Austin, Texas
Winter camping around Austin means mild temperatures and endless entertainment options. Spend your days hiking the Greenbelt, paddling on Lady Bird Lake, or mountain biking through rocky trails.
The famous bat colony might be smaller in winter, but the city’s music scene stays hot year-round. Food truck parks and outdoor patios remain comfortable dining options throughout the season. We recommend trying McKinney Falls State Park, a natural retreat just minutes from downtown.
14. Clearwater, Florida
Winter transforms this Gulf Coast gem into a peaceful place to camp with perfect temperatures in the 70s. If you want easy beach access, check out Fort De Soto Park or Clearwater RV parks.
The calm winter waters are a dream for kayakers and paddleboarders, while the white sand beaches are prime spots for watching spectacular sunsets. Take a boat tour to spot dolphins playing in the gulf waters or explore the paved Pinellas Trail on bikes.
15. Padre Island, Texas
Winter camping on the world’s longest barrier island means peaceful beaches and comfortable temperatures in the 70s. The national seashore offers primitive camping right on the beach, where you can fall asleep to the sound of waves.
Winter brings excellent conditions for beachcombing, fishing, and watching for rare winter birds. Doing some four-wheeling down the remote shoreline will give you a great chance to experience some untouched coastal wilderness. And if you time your visit properly, you might see some sea turtle releases! And on top of all that, the calm winter waters are perfect for kayaking the Laguna Madre.
16. Death Valley, California
Don’t let the name fool you. Winter transforms America’s hottest national park into a comfortable desert playground with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s. The clear winter air gives you stunning views of snow-capped peaks surrounding the valley floor.
If you’re looking for things to do, explore unique landscapes like the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Badwater Basin, and Artist’s Palette (without the scorching heat). While winter rains occasionally, it does bring rare desert wildflower displays. And if you’re into stargazing, this time of the year is perfect for that!
17. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona
Camping here in the winter gives you an opportunity to see the true beauty of this unique desert landscape, with sunny days in the 70s. This monument showcases the only place in the U.S. where organ pipe cacti grow wild, and they are a sight to see!
There are well-maintained camping facilities nearby that you can use as a base for exploring desert trails and scenic drives. Wildlife viewing is ideal in the winter since animals become more active in the mild temperatures. The remote location is also perfect if you’re into stargazing. Consider joining ranger-led programs to learn about the fascinating desert ecosystem and local history!
18. Florida Keys, Florida
The Keys are one of the best places in the United States to camp during the winter, with perfect weather in the mid-70s and refreshing ocean breezes. There are a number of state parks throughout the island chain that offer both primitive and full-hookup options.
If you want to get active, snorkel the clear winter waters and observe tropical fish and coral reefs, kayak through mangrove tunnels, or fish the flats for seasonal catches. The Overseas Highway is a unique scenic route for exploring multiple islands, and in the evening you can take a sunset sail or enjoy fresh seafood at local fish shacks.
19. San Diego, California
Winter in San Diego brings sunny days in the high 60s and minimal coastal crowds. Nearby state beaches and parks are perfect for camping with some ocean views. We like exploring tide pools where you can find various forms of marine life during winter’s low tides.
The calm winter surf also makes the ideal conditions for learning to paddleboard, kayak, or even surf! You can also take scenic hikes through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve or bike along the Pacific Beach boardwalk. The famous San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park provide excellent day trip options as well, and winter whale watching opportunities are in full-swing with gray whales migrating past the coast.
20. Siesta Key, Florida
Winter camping near Siesta Key means perfect beach days with temperatures in the 70s. Local campgrounds provide easy access to the famous quartz crystal sand beaches, and the calm winter waters are ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking through mangrove tunnels.
Camping here in the winter brings excellent shelling opportunities and spectacular sunsets with smaller crowds. The village area stays lively with outdoor dining and shopping options.
21. Tucson, Arizona
Winter transforms Tucson into a camper’s paradise with sunny days in the high 60s. Catalina State Park offers excellent camping facilities at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains.
We recommend exploring the iconic Saguaro National Park or hiking through Sabino Canyon. Winter offers perfect conditions for mountain biking, rock climbing, and desert photography as well.
22. Everglades National Park, Florida
Winter offers the perfect conditions for exploring this unique ecosystem, with comfortable temperatures and minimal insects. Waterfront camping sites will give you a chance to spot manatees, dolphins, and countless bird species right from your chair!
Winter actually brings the highest concentration of wildlife to this area since animals gather around remaining water sources, so take guided boat tours through mangrove tunnels or paddle quiet waterways in search of alligators. The dry winter weather also creates excellent conditions for hiking boardwalk trails and bicycle paths through diverse habitats.
Don’t Let Winter Keep You Inside
Whether you’re craving desert solitude, beach vibes, or southern charm, these warm-weather camping destinations prove that winter doesn’t mean you have to store your camping gear.
Each place offers its own unique blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and perfect weather for cold-season camping. Now grab your gear, pick your paradise, and enjoy a winter camping getaway!
