Camping can help you connect with nature and embark on adventures. While the activity is great in any season, winter is an especially good time to pitch a tent, especially if you’re doing it in the Southwest.
Why Give Winter Camping a Try?
Winter camping can be one of the best times to enjoy the outdoors. The sky is serene, and landscapes look even more pristine. Plus, you won’t worry about sweating while traveling, setting up or resting due to the cooler temperatures.
So many adventurers love winter camping. In fact, it grew by 40.7% from 2019 to 2022. The peaceful campgrounds available during this time of year can significantly contribute to its rise in popularity. Fewer people want to brave the cold, which gives you more space to set up.
What Are the Best Winter Camping Destinations in the Southwest?
The Southwest is known for its sunny weather and, oftentimes, extreme heat. Some areas in states like California experience temperatures over 100 degrees in the summer, making winter an ideal time to explore the region. Here are a couple of the best winter camping destinations to visit.
1. Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday
Kampgrounds of America connects people with the great outdoors and one another. It can accommodate RV owners, family campers and more thanks to its inclusive campgrounds throughout North America.
Its Ventura Ranch KOA branch is a must-visit, offering the best winter camping in Southern California with its gorgeous views and clear, star-lit nights. Propane and firewood are available for purchase to have a hassle-free winter camping experience.
| Why Choose | Offers a KOA account to manage reservations and rewards Provides support through quality and friendly service |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Provides diverse lodging options Offers recreational activities like adventure courses and zip lines Accommodates pets |
2. La Jolla Indian Campground
La Jolla is another scenic, lesser-known spot in Southern California. It’s a classic beach town filled with upscale and low-key shops to enjoy. Plus, you can experience winter camping at La Jolla Indian Campground.
The park is situated in Pauma Valley and provides a peaceful nature-centered retreat where you can relax or explore. Whether you’re with friends, family or even camping solo, you can enjoy the stunning mountain views and tree backdrops.
| Why Choose | Features scenic spaces Helps you reconnect with nature |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Offers water filling stations, restrooms and showers Provides trading post and dining areas Within proximity of other outdoor adventure activities |
3. Willow Campground
White Tank Mountain Regional Park in Arizona is home to numerous group campgrounds, such as Family Campground Area 14 and Youth Group Area 12. Willow Campground is a standout option that welcomes all kinds of campers. It features restrooms, showers and a dishwashing station that makes cleanup easy.
| Why Choose | Inclusive campsite designs Near other campground sites |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Sites without hookups Tent-only campgrounds Large parking areas |
4. Hot Springs Glamp Camp
Hot Springs Glamp Camp in New Mexico is a great space to visit if you want to warm up during winter while enjoying the night sky and stars. It’s also near local breweries, hiking trails and other tourist destinations. Same-day bookings are available, but you can also reserve in advance to get the exact type of accommodation you desire.
| Why Choose | Unique glamping experience Access to hot springs |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Dome, remodeled vintage RVs and other accommodations Heated mattress pad and space heaters Complimentary Wi-Fi and drinking water |
5. Camp Fimfo
Winter camping offers the opportunity to visit Texas without the blistering heat. Camp Fimfo is a wonderful destination that blends fun and adventure through unique attractions. There are a variety of cabins and RV sites to choose from, but you can also set up your tent in one of the campgrounds around the space.
| Why Choose | Custom-designed cabins Accommodates pets |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Full hookup RV sites Water attractions On-site dining |
6. K River Campground
K River Campground in Oklahoma is another top winter camping destination in the Southwest. It is situated in the Kiamichi Mountains to offer you an immersive nature retreat. You can also look forward to familiar and convenient spaces like a clubhouse, museums and more. Glamping tents are available for a more luxurious experience.
| Why Choose | Reservations are 50% refundable up to a week before your stay Accommodates pets |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Unique spaces like a beer garden and a petting zoo ATV trails Conservation of trees and wildlife |
7. Fletcher View Campground
The Sierra Forever organization supports the Spring Mountains National Recreational Area in southern Nevada through the GO Mt Charleston programs and website. The Fletcher View Campground is one of its most well-known camping sites, situated by the Kyle Canyon wash.
| Why Choose | Offers a scenic space Refreshing mountain air |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Tent and RV sites with hookups Well-spaced sites Hiking and horseback riding |
8. Devil’s Garden
Devil’s Garden in Utah is the sole campground at Arches National Park. It’s welcome to winter campers who want to visit landmarks like the Landscape Arch and go hiking. You can also enjoy simpler activities, such as stargazing and picnicking. The Arches Visitor Center is a great place to visit and support the park’s preservation efforts.
| Why Choose | Operates on a first-come, first-served basis during the winter Has on-site staff |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Amphitheater Recycling facilities Firewood for purchase |
9. Greeley RV Park
The Greeley RV Park in Colorado builds up a community of campers who want to try country living while maintaining access to other parks, pools and shopping centers. The 23-acre site offers ample space, particularly for those seeking to create a home away from home during the winter.
| Why Choose | Long- and short-term RV spaces Country living with access to the city |
| Unique Amenities and Offerings | Hookup sites for electric RVs Propane filling station Dog run areas |
How to Camp in the Winter
Winter camping requires careful preparation. Here are some helpful tips:
- Layer your clothes: Choose layers that will help you keep warm while wicking away sweat. Wear a moisture-wicking base, then add fleece or wool to stay warm and dry.
- Map out your route: To ensure a safe trip to your destination, plan your route in advance. Make sure to find alternative routes if roads are slippery.
- Pack gear and necessities: Pack essential camping gear like flashlights, sleeping bags, hand warmers and more. If you’re planning to cook on your trip, make sure to bring a stove that can withstand cold temperatures.
- Prioritize food and drinks: It’s essential to consume high-energy meals and stay hydrated to help your body stay warm. This is especially important if you’re engaging in more strenuous activities.
- Focus on setting up early: Cold weather and darkness can help provide a serene atmosphere, but it’s challenging to set up at night. Make sure you establish your camping space before it gets dark.
Experience the Joys of Winter Camping in the Southwest
The best winter camping destinations in the Southwest can vary from person to person. California offers a multitude of unique landscapes and beginner-friendly amenities that will make any person a happy camper. Plan your backpacking experience for the upcoming season.
