This US State Was Ranked The Absolute Worst For Camping

Camping is one of America's most beloved pastimes, particularly during the summer months. Nothing beats gathering around a campfire with family and friends, cooking s'mores, and enjoying some rejuvenating time spent in nature. All around the country, travelers load up their cars with tents, gear, and great snacks and embark on a camping adventure. Unfortunately, camping opportunities in some states, like North Dakota, may be somewhat limited or cost prohibitive. 

Many of the parks in the country's extensive national park system have designated campgrounds near some of the most iconic landmarks, and you can enjoy dispersed camping for free in national forests. Private campgrounds help to bridge the gap, and often offer great amenities like canoe and kayak rentals, swimming pools, and more. That being said, some states are definitely better than others when it comes to planning an epic camping trip in the U.S. While no one is shocked that outdoorsy states like Colorado and Utah are popular when it comes to camping, it may come as a surprise that North Dakota was ranked worst in the country.

Lawn Love, an online lawn care service, ranked the state dead last in their 2023 list of the best and worst states for camping. They used metrics like access, affordability, quality, supplies, and safety to make their recommendations. Even though North Dakota ranked high in several categories, it was one of the states with the fewest available campsites, fewest attractions, and highest prices for camping. Compared to the attractions around Lawn Love's top-rated state for camping, California, North Dakota may not have as many bucket list destinations.

It's a shame, because the country has some truly gorgeous scenery, and the small population offers plenty of wide open spaces to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy nature. It's home to the underrated Theodore Roosevelt National Park (an excellent place to avoid crowds spot wildlife) and offers access to the North Country National Scenic Trail, both of which are perfect for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. History lovers will also enjoy visiting the Knife River Indians National Historic Site and walking along the state's section of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.

Lawn Love dubbed North Dakota the worst state for camping, but it did rank first for safety and highest customer ratings, so you can at least expect the few campgrounds available to be comfortable. Whether you're passing through North Dakota on an epic road trip around the northern U.S., or you're a local looking for a campground close to home, you can still find some great options. The state's campgrounds offer places to pitch your tent, cozy up around the fire, stargaze, and enjoy the great outdoors with your loved ones. Just be prepared to fork out more if you're renting camping gear than in other states, as Lawn Love's ranking considered the highest average rental cost and found North Dakota's to be the highest. However, staying in one of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park's two campgrounds only costs $14 per campsite in the high season.

North Dakota is home to some beautiful lakes, and when the weather is warm nothing beats camping near the water. During the day you can swim, relax on sandy beaches, or go boating. Icelandic State Park is a popular spot on the shores of Lake Renwick with tent and RV sites, and kayaks, canoes, and stand up paddle boards for rent. There are also some restored historic buildings nearby that offer glimpses into the lives of North Dakota's first homesteaders. Lewis and Clark State Park, located on Lake Sakakawea is another great spot for camping, and Lake Metigoshe State Park is a magical wonderland in the winter. With more than 1,300 other campsites scattered across the state, you might uncover your new favorite place to camp on a visit to North Dakota — especially if you're in search of peace, nature, and solitude.