8 Places to Have an Epic Snow Camping Adventure

Written by
Jessica Sanders
Breathtaking panoramas of white-capped mountains and hazy, gray blue skies set the scene for an epic snow camping adventure. Pack warm clothes, lace up your snowshoes, and make base camp at one of these unforgettable winter camping spots.
Mt. Hood National Forest, Oregon
Tilly Jane A-Frame
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Take your snow camping inside one of the oldest structures on Mount Hood: a rustic mountain cabin. Located on the north side of the mountain, the cabin is close to numerous areas for snowshoeing, skiing and winter hiking. When packing, keep in mind that you have to snowshoe or hike to the two-story cabin, which can fit 20 people and comes equipped with a wood stove and sleeping loft.
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Puffer Mountains, New York
Puffer Pond Lean-tos
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This hike-in snow camping destination is nestled into the base of the Puffer Mountains. The hike, though not overly strenuous, is just over 2 miles long and requires a creek crossing. In the end, the effort is worth the reward. The isolated camping area, with two lean-tos, creates a serene experience along the shores of the small, tranquil Puffer pond.
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Castle Crags State Park, California
Primitive Camping
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Named after 6,000 feet of glacier-polished crags, this is the winter climber's paradise. With climbing routes that range from 20 to 900 feet, there's an option for adventurers of every skill level. Hop off the icy rocks and enjoy 28 miles of hiking trails, ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing through the state park. No matter what you do, stunning views of Mt. Shasta make this a scenic snow camping destination.
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Red Cliffs Recreation Area, Utah
Red Cliffs Campground
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Open year round, the Red Cliffs campground is protected from the harsh winter winds by its namesake, making it comfortable in even the coldest months. After you settle in, snowshoe through the canyons, or hike the Silver Reef lookout trail. The short half-mile trail leads to a lookout with panoramic views of the Silver Reef Valley dusted in snow.
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Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Colorado
Reverend's Ridge Campground
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Just 30 miles outside of Denver, this winter wonderland offers a wide range of snow camping adventures. Pack a sled and go riding down the large slope above Kriley Pond. Even better, bring your ice skates for natural ice skating at Ranch Ponds or the Visitor Center show ponds. There are plenty of hiking trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, as well.
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Denali National Park, Alaska
Riley Campground
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This primitive spot provides you with a peaceful camping experience and a variety of unique activities to try. The most unique activity is traditional mushing, or riding on a dog sled. This classic Alaskan hobby makes for a memorable experience in the frosty wilderness. Plan to camp in Denali in late February for Winterfest, an annual event with film showings, snowshoeing, ice sculpting and more.
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Yosemite National Park, California
Wawona Campground
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This lush and thriving wildness turns into a pristine white blanket of snow from December to March. Camp at Wawona Campground, which is still open and accessible during the offseason. Cross-country ski through the Wawona Meadow Trail, and make sure to look up. Towering high in the sky, you'll find ancient sequoias covered in snow.
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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Primitive Campsites
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This popular tourist spot is empty as winter sets in, which makes it perfect for snow camping enthusiasts. With plenty to do, from ice fishing to climbing and snowshoeing, you can spend the day exploring with the icy Lake Superior as your backdrop.
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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Primitive Campsites
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This popular tourist spot is empty as winter sets in, which makes it perfect for snow camping enthusiasts. With plenty to do, from ice fishing to climbing and snowshoeing, you can spend the day exploring with the icy Lake Superior as your backdrop.
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campsite
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