The National Parks truly are some of the very best that America has to offer residents and visitors, but the vast majority of people who spend time in the parks do it during the summer. But, in actuality, the National Parks are open all year around!

Visiting a National Park in the Fall is really the perfect time to go. Not only are many of the parks completely beautiful this time of year, but they are also far less crowded than normal. Whereas you might have a real struggle finding a camping spot at the Grand Canyon in June, in October and November, there can be ample space to get camping.

So, if you are heading out on a road trip in the next month or two, you should absolutely consider camping in some of these National Parks. And don’t forget to bring your long johns!

Big Bend National Park: Unlike many other National Parks, Big Bend attracts more crowds during the fall season. With plenty to do from camping, to hiking to kayaking there is more than enough for anyone. Varied terrain from desert to mountain to river bed allows for beautiful photo opportunities as well.

Joshua Tree National Park: With plenty of campgrounds available, Joshua Tree is a fantastic destination to visit during the fall and winter months. Home to desert and mountains, there is a wild terrain that provides an incredible backdrop for early morning hikes or photography sessions.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: One of the most underrated, and beautiful, parks out there, the Great Smoky Mountains dot the North Carolina and Tennessee highlands. Fall provides vistas that include golden leaves changing color, and plenty of options for learning about the long history of the peoples of the area.

These are just three of the many options available to get camping this fall. What are some of your favorite National Parks to visit? Let us know in the comments!