If you’re looking for open spaces, beautiful views, and affordable adventures, look no further than the US national forest system.
These forests are some of the best places to camp and backpack.
Unlike national parks, where the focus is on tourism and land preservation, national forests are often popular for recreational activities and other uses.
You can camp, bike, hike, fish, you name it, making it great for any outdoor enthusiast.
With over 150 national forests across the United States, there’s bound to be one close to where you live.
Let’s breakdown what makes them so perfect.
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Dispersed Camping
One of the biggest advantages to national parks is the ability to dispersed camp.
Dispersed camping is a term that simply means camping outside of traditional campgrounds–typically for free.
It’s what most people would call “roughing it”, setting up out in the backcountry, far from civilization.
With dispersed camping, you’ll avoid campsite fees and you’ll get some privacy away from other campers,
As backpackers, that is usually what we’re looking for.
Fewer Crowds Than National Parks
National parks get all the love and attention from the influencers and instagram-ers, while the national forests tend to go underappreciated.
But I actually prefer the national forests.
Many national parks require advanced notice and permits to camp or explore, but national forests often require no permits at all.
In some spots, you can even pull over on the side of the road and set up your tent, making it great for last-minute trip planning or emergency overnights.
Nobody likes standing in a giant group of people fighting to get the perfect picture.
With less crowds, you’ll find that the trails and the sites are quieter, giving you the freedom to explore on your own terms.
Wide-Variety of Terrain for Backpackers
National forests offer a variety of different terrains and obstacles for backpackers.
There are long trails—great for multi-day hikes—as well as plenty of backcountry camping areas where you can get fully immersed with nature.
Covering a wide range, from beginner-friendly to difficult, the trails are set up so hikers from all skill-levels can find a hike that is right for them, while also pushing their limits.
There are wild hikes for the young and eager, but also simple hikes for the people who need something a little more tame.
With different elevations, scenery, and layouts, each forest offers its own special adventure.
No trail is exactly the same.
Budget-Friendly Experiences
National forests were not designed to be money-making machines; they were designed to get people outdoors while also protecting the ecosystem.
They are extremely affordable.
Dispersed camping is free, and developed campgrounds stay in the $10-$25 range.
There are usually no entrance fees.
It is the perfect place for budget campers, and saving money on passes and permits will leave more money in your pocket for buying gear or MRE’s.
Abundant Wildlife and Plantlife
There are many diverse ecosystems that make up the national forest system.
Along your journeys you will find mountains, lakes, rivers, and all the creatures and plant life that come with them.
For animal lovers, this means more deer, more elk, more bears, and all the birds you can imagine.
These lands feel wilder and more untouched, because they are less developed and less popular.
Remember– Always follow bear and animal safety rules and don’t approach or interact with wildlife. Do not pick flowers or damage the trails, and always follow leave no trace principles.
More Accessible the National Parks
There are twice as many national forests as there are national parks.
This means you won’t have to travel nearly as far to visit one.
Most states even have multiple forests.
For people living in the Eastern half of the United States, this is important, as most of the national parks seem to be clustered out West, and cross country drives just aren’t always realistic.
They are prevalent enough that you should be able to knock trips out without spending long hours on the road.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, national forests are not any better or any worse than the national parks, they are simply a fun alternative for outdoor adventurers.
These areas offer a wider variety of activities, and the ability to burn downed wood (along with lax camping permit requirements) makes them affordable and fun for backpackers who want a truly immersive experience with nature.
If you have never visited a national forest before, I highly suggest adding it to your list of camping destinations.
The scenery and views are incredible, and you won’t forget it.
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