Arbor Day, which falls on the last Friday in April, is a special day to celebrate trees and their value to our environment. And what better way to do that than by getting out into nature and experiencing the beauty of the natural world for yourself? Take a look at some of the best camping destinations to celebrate Arbor Day and enjoy the wonders of nature firsthand!
What is Arbor Day?
Arbor Day is a holiday that’s dedicated to planting and caring for trees. It’s celebrated on different dates in different countries, but it’s usually observed in the spring when trees start to bloom. The first Arbor Day was celebrated in the United States in 1872, and it was created by J. Sterling Morton, a journalist and politician, who believed that trees are essential for the environment and for human well-being.
Today, Arbor Day is celebrated around the world. It’s an opportunity for individuals and communities to come together and plant trees, learn about the benefits of trees, and take action to protect the environment.
Top Arbor Day Camping Destinations
Get back to nature and celebrate the beauty of trees with an Arbor Day camping trip! Camping is a fantastic way to connect with nature, and there are many destinations across the country that are perfect for commemorating the holiday.
From national parks to state forests, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best camping destinations to celebrate Arbor Day:
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is a stunning region for camping and appreciating trees. Encompassing 1,187 square miles of wilderness, visitors can explore giant sequoia groves and hike trails that wind through beautiful forests. Whether you’re into RV camping or tent camping, a Yosemite campground offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and fun.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect destination for those looking to celebrate Arbor Day in the eastern United States. This park spans multiple states and is home to diverse tree species, including the iconic American chestnut.
Go camping in Pigeon Forge, TN to be in the heart of the Smokies, or rent a cabin in Asheville, NC for a peaceful mountain retreat. Wherever you decide, you can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
3. Adirondack Park, New York
Adirondack Park in upstate New York is a beautiful camping destination to celebrate Arbor Day. With its rugged mountainous terrain and crystal clear lakes, this park is the ideal setting for a weekend getaway filled with outdoor activities and an appreciation of nature. The six million acres of protected land are home to towering pines, picturesque waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife, making it an unforgettable camping experience.
4. Redwood National and State Parks, California
There’s no bigger way to celebrate Arbor Day than at Redwood National and State Parks in Northwestern California. Home to the tallest trees on Earth, the coast redwood, these majestic trees are known to reach heights of over 300 feet and can live for more than 2,000 years!
Tour the towering redwoods through hiking and biking trails, then learn about the importance of these magnificent trees and participate in tree-planting activities.
5. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire
White Mountain National Forest is a beautiful camping destination located in New Hampshire. The forest is home to majestic mountain peaks and a variety of trees, including red spruce, Eastern hemlock, and American beech. Not only does it provide visitors with some of the most picturesque views of nature, but it also offers numerous outdoor activities, like hiking, picnicking, fishing, and mountain biking.
6. Ozark-St Francis National Forests, Arkansas
Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, the Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is a lush 1.2 million-acre hardwood and pine forest that offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The forest is home to several tree species, including the beautiful dogwood.
Hot Springs is a must-visit Arkansas camping destination tucked in the corner of the Ozarks, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature. While famous for its thermal hot springs, campers can get up close to trees through hiking, biking, ziplining, and more.
7. F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Georgia
F. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain, GA, is a wonderful camping spot to celebrate Arbor Day. Whether you’re a hiker, camper, or nature enthusiast, this park has something for everyone. With miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult, Pine Mountain camping allows you to explore and appreciate the beauty of the natural vegetation and wildlife found in the area.
Make Arbor Day Camping a Tradition
Arbor Day is a holiday that celebrates the importance of trees, and it’s a great excuse to get outside and explore nature. Instead of just one-day events, why not make Arbor Day camping a yearly tradition? There are plenty of camping destinations where you can spend the weekend exploring forests and learning more about preserving our natural environment.
Begin planning your Arbor Day camping trip and create special memories with your loved ones by celebrating the magic of trees!
