On April 8, 2024, America will witness the 2024 solar eclipse, which is set to be a truly breathtaking celestial event. The path of totality will stretch from Texas to Maine, starting in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT and concluding in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT.
Camping is an excellent choice for those looking to combine their love of the outdoors with this astronomical event. Here are the best places across the U.S. to set up camp and see the splendor of the 2024 solar eclipse:
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Caddo Lake State Park (Texas)
Offering 49 sites for tents or RVs, Caddo Lake State Park is a peaceful escape with amenities like full hookups and cabins. The lake and trees’ scenic beauty offer a perfect ambiance for viewing the eclipse. Visitors can also enjoy paddling through the maze of bayous and sloughs.
Sandy Creek Park (Texas)
Located right along the eclipse’s path, Sandy Creek Park provides ample space for camping by a tranquil lake. Hiking and birdwatching serve as ideal pre-eclipse activities. For the anglers, the park’s lake is known for excellent fishing opportunities.
Fort Richardson State Park (Texas)
A blend of old and new awaits visitors at Fort Richardson State Park. Whether camping in modern style or simply among the hills and streams, guests are assured of a unique experience combining time travel and eclipse viewing. History buffs will appreciate the park’s preserved military buildings from the 1860s.
Crowley’s Ridge State Park (Arkansas)
Picturesque landscapes await you at Crowley’s Ridge State Park. Accommodation options include cabins or RV spots. Engage in activities like fishing or hiking before the eclipse begins, while children can enjoy the on-site playground.
Petit Jean State Park (Arkansas)
With interesting rock formations and expansive views, Petit Jean State Park is a treat for nature lovers. Trails leading to waterfalls await discovery before you retire for the evening to a camp or cabin and watch the changing sky. The park also features the historic Mather Lodge, which has a restaurant and rooms.
Markham Spring Campground (Missouri)
Offering a peaceful hideaway, Markham Spring Campground is an oasis of tranquility. Visitors can enjoy bird watching or hiking before viewing the eclipse with different camping options. The main attraction here is the Markham Spring, producing millions of gallons of water daily.
Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park (Missouri)
Boasting natural pools and abundant activities, Johnsons Shut-Ins State Park has a wide variety of campsites. Take a swim or hike before the evening’s eclipse. The shut-ins—a natural waterpark—are a must-see while you’re here.
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area (Illinois)
Campers at Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area can fish or simply enjoy the peaceful lake. Whether camping with or without electricity, you’ll love viewing the eclipse from a wooded nook. The state park also features equestrian trails for horseback riding enthusiasts.
Coon Creek Recreation Area (Illinois)
Coon Creek Recreation Area offers a large lake, campsites, trails, and boat facilities. It’s great for water activities and RV camping.
Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area (Indiana)
Catch the breathtaking eclipse over Raccoon Lake State Recreation Area, with camping amenities and fun activities like beach, boating, trails, archery, and shooting range.
Turkey Run State Park (Indiana)
Distinguished by beautiful cliffs and trees, Turkey Run State Park extends a versatile camping experience. Explore the surroundings during the day and gaze at the amazing eclipse at night. The park’s sandstone gorges and ravines are a particular highlight for geology enthusiasts.
Geneva State Park (Ohio)
Geneva State Park is home to a large lake and various camping options, some with full hookups. It is a perfect spot for swimming or hiking during the day and viewing the eclipse at night. The park also boasts a marina where guests can rent boats or dock their own.
Mt. Gilead State Park (Ohio)
While a smaller campground, Mt. Gilead State Park is charming with great fishing spots and woodland areas. It provides different camping options and a cozy ambiance for eclipse observation. The park also has a remodeled historic dam for a touch of local history.
Brighton State Park (Vermont)
Relax in the serenity of Brighton State Park, ideal for viewing the eclipse without city lights. Camping preferences are catered to, while the local wildlife is a joy to behold. The park’s extensive network of hiking trails invites exploration of its wild, forested landscapes.
Lake Carmi State Park (Vermont)
Boasting the largest lakeshore in Vermont, Lake Carmi State Park offers clear views for the eclipse. Different camping options are available, with daytime activities centered around the water. The park is also a popular destination for bird watchers, given its diverse bird population.
Meacham Lake (New York)
Serene and secluded, Meacham Lake provides clear skies for eclipse viewing. Camping near the water or the woods is available, with hiking and wildlife watching adding to the day’s adventure. Visitors can also use the boat launch to explore the lake’s vast waters.
Cranberry Lake (New York)
Cranberry Lake promises a tranquil camping experience with both powered and non-powered sites. The clear night skies are set to put on a fantastic eclipse display. The lake’s undeveloped shoreline is particularly enticing for paddlers and boaters seeking solitude.
Umbagog Lake State Park (New Hampshire)
Nestled on the state line, Umbagog Lake State Park hosts numerous campsites, with some accessible by boat. The eclipse can be viewed from either water or land. Known for its wildlife-rich wetlands, the park is a haven for birders and nature enthusiasts.
Lily Bay State Park (Maine)
Located beside a tranquil lake, Lily Bay State Park offers a spacious site for camping in tents or RVs. Daytime water activities culminate with an evening of sky-watching. With its proximity to the charming town of Greenville, visitors can easily explore local shops and eateries.
Rangeley Lake State Park (Maine)
Perched in the mountains, Rangeley Lake State Park offers diverse camping experiences in a wild, natural setting. Get ready for daytime exploration and night-time spectacle. The park is also renowned for its excellent landlocked salmon and trout fishing.
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