Spring break camping destinations offer something magical for families craving connection, fresh air, and a break from the ordinary. Instead of crowded beaches and overpriced hotels, imagine stargazing by a campfire, exploring trails together, and waking up to the sound of nature—not room service.
Camping during spring break gives families a chance to slow down, unplug, and make memories that don’t come with a screen. In this article, we’re bringing you seven of the best family-friendly spring break camping destinations—places where the Wi-Fi is good but you won’t want to use it, and the bonds you build will become stronger than ever. Let the adventure begin.
How We Chose These Family-Friendly Spring Break Spots
Not every campground makes the cut when you’re planning a spring break that’s both fun and family-approved. We carefully selected these destinations based on what matters most to families who want adventure without sacrificing comfort or safety.
Family-Friendly Amenities
We looked for places that go beyond the basics—planned activities, play areas, clean restrooms, and nearby conveniences like grocery stores or medical help if needed. Campgrounds that feel welcoming to kids (and relaxing for parents) ranked high.
Availability of Diverse Activities
Boredom is the enemy of a great trip. Each destination on our list offers a range of activities for all ages—from hiking and biking to swimming, kayaking, stargazing, and more. Whether your family is into high-energy adventures or laid-back nature walks, there’s something for everyone.
Safety and Accessibility
We prioritized spots that are easy to access by car or RV and have a reputation for being safe, well-managed, and family-oriented. This means well-lit paths, attentive staff, and thoughtful layouts that make exploring easy and secure.
Scenic Beauty
Spring break should feel like a getaway, and these places deliver—whether it’s a mountain view, a desert sky, or oceanfront serenity.
Positive Reviews and Ratings
Finally, we considered real feedback from families who’ve been there. High ratings and glowing reviews told us these spots don’t just look good on paper—they deliver unforgettable experiences.
Top 7 Family-Friendly Spring Break Camping Destinations
Spring break is the perfect opportunity for families to escape the daily grind and create lasting memories in the great outdoors. Camping offers an affordable and adventurous way to bond, explore nature, and enjoy quality time together. Here are seven top family-friendly camping destinations to consider for your next spring break.
1. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina, Newport Beach, California
Located in the heart of Newport Beach, Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina offers a premier camping experience with a blend of resort-style amenities and natural beauty. Families can choose from 372 full-hookup RV sites or 27 quaint cottages, all nestled along the scenic Back Bay.
Amenities and Activities:
- Water Sports: The resort features a waveless beach and a swimming lagoon, perfect for young children. Families can rent kayaks, pedal boats, and stand-up paddleboards to explore the calm waters.
- Resort Facilities: Guests can enjoy the heated pools, spas, and poolside cabanas. The resort also offers golf cart and fire pit rentals, making it easy to navigate the expansive property and enjoy evening gatherings.
- Dining: On-site dining provides a variety of cuisines, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
- Entertainment: Seasonal activities such as BINGO, Trivia, movies on the beach, and live music events keep the whole family entertained.
Why It’s Great for Families:
Newport Dunes combines the tranquility of nature with the conveniences of a full-service resort. Its proximity to local attractions like Balboa Island and the Back Bay Nature Preserve offers additional exploration opportunities. The resort’s commitment to providing a safe and engaging environment makes it an ideal choice for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
2. Campland on the Bay, San Diego, California
Situated along the shores of Mission Bay, Campland on the Bay is a vibrant campground known for its festive atmosphere and extensive family-friendly amenities. With over 50 years of operation, it has become a beloved destination for campers seeking both relaxation and recreation.
Amenities and Activities:
- Waterfront Camping: Offers both RV and tent sites with easy access to the bay, allowing for picturesque views and convenient water activities.
- Recreational Facilities: Features include a public beach, water sports rentals, pools, spas, a gym, playground, a skate park, and a video arcade. Sports courts for basketball, dodgeball, and pickleball are also available.
- Dining: The on-site Cantina Restaurant & Bar serves a variety of dishes, and there’s an ice cream parlor for sweet treats.
- Entertainment: Seasonal live music performances, known as “Campland Rocks,” and year-round organized activities ensure there’s never a dull moment.
Why It’s Great for Families:
Campland’s lively environment and extensive amenities cater to all age groups. The availability of both active and leisurely pursuits means that every family member can find something enjoyable to do. Its location also provides easy access to San Diego’s famous attractions, making it a convenient base for broader explorations.
3. Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina
For families seeking a more rustic and secluded camping experience, Cape Lookout National Seashore offers an escape to pristine barrier islands accessible only by ferry. This destination is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy unspoiled coastal beauty.
Amenities and Activities:
- Primitive Camping: Camping is available on the islands, but facilities are minimal. Campers must bring all necessities, including water and portable toilets.
- Beach Activities: Miles of undeveloped beaches are perfect for shelling, fishing, and beachcombing.
- Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to wild horses, various bird species, and marine life, offering ample wildlife observation opportunities.
Why It’s Great for Families:
This destination provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from modern conveniences and reconnect as a family. The adventure of ferrying to a remote island and setting up a self-sufficient campsite can be a rewarding bonding experience. The natural setting encourages exploration and learning about coastal ecosystems.
4. Buena Vista, Colorado
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Buena Vista offers a picturesque camping experience with a backdrop of towering peaks and access to the Arkansas River. It’s an excellent destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure in a mountain setting.
Amenities and Activities:
- Diverse Camping Options: From tent sites to RV parks with full hookups, Buena Vista caters to various camping preferences.
- Outdoor Recreation: Families can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, white-water rafting, and fishing. The nearby hot springs provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of activities.
- Cultural Attractions: The town’s historic downtown offers shopping, dining, and cultural events, adding a touch of small-town charm to the camping experience.
Why It’s Great for Families:
Buena Vista’s combination of outdoor adventures and comfortable camping facilities makes it suitable for families with varying interests and activity levels. The natural beauty of the area provides a stunning backdrop for creating lasting memories.
5. Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Mountains stretch across Georgia and North Carolina, offering numerous family-friendly camping destinations amidst rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic vistas.
Amenities and Activities:
- Varied Campgrounds: Options range from primitive sites to developed campgrounds with amenities like hot showers, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Hiking and Nature Trails: The region boasts extensive trail systems, including portions of the Appalachian Trail, suitable for all skill levels.
- Cultural Sites: Access to nearby towns with rich cultural heritage, artisan shops, and local festivals enhances the camping experience.
Why It’s Great for Families:
The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a versatile escape for families who love nature, culture, and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, enjoying a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, or roasting marshmallows under a canopy of stars, the experience is equal parts peaceful and enriching. Many campgrounds in this region also host family-friendly programs like guided hikes or storytelling by the fire, making it a well-rounded spring break option.
6. Joshua Tree National Park, California
If your family wants an unforgettable desert adventure, Joshua Tree delivers with its surreal landscapes, towering rock formations, and clear, star-filled skies. The park sits at the intersection of two desert ecosystems—the Mojave and the Colorado—offering dramatic scenery and incredible biodiversity.
Amenities and Activities:
- Desert Exploration: Families can hike trails that weave through cactus gardens, boulder fields, and Joshua tree groves.
- Stargazing: With little light pollution, Joshua Tree is one of the best places in the country to see the night sky.
- Junior Ranger Programs: Kids can participate in educational activities that help them connect with nature.
Camping Options:
There are several family-friendly campgrounds within the park, like Jumbo Rocks and Cottonwood, offering picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. While these sites are more primitive, they provide a rich, immersive experience for adventurous families.
Why It’s Great for Families:
Joshua Tree is ideal for families who want to unplug and experience nature in a completely new way. The landscape feels otherworldly, and the park’s hands-on learning opportunities make it as educational as it is exciting.
7. Moab, Utah
Moab is a dream destination for families who want the best of national park exploration, outdoor thrills, and jaw-dropping scenery. Nestled between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, this red rock playground is packed with adventure.
Amenities and Activities:
- National Parks Access: Explore the iconic arches, mesas, and canyons on foot, by bike, or even on a family-friendly Jeep tour.
- River Fun: Take a gentle rafting trip on the Colorado River or enjoy a picnic on its scenic banks.
- Biking and Hiking: Moab is home to trails for every skill level, from beginner-friendly hikes to more challenging adventures.
Camping Options:
Moab offers everything from basic BLM sites to full-service RV parks with pools, playgrounds, and Wi-Fi. Some campgrounds even have cabins and glamping tents for families looking for extra comfort.
Why It’s Great for Families:
Moab hits the sweet spot between wild and welcoming. You can spend the morning hiking through dramatic landscapes, the afternoon floating down a river, and the evening stargazing around a fire. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, it’s a customizable adventure for families of all kinds.
Tips for a Successful Family Camping Trip
Planning a spring break camping adventure can be one of the most rewarding ways to connect as a family—but it takes a little strategy to make it smooth, safe, and stress-free. Here are a few essential tips to help you make the most of your time outdoors.
Plan Ahead
Spring break is a popular time for campers, so the earlier you reserve your site, the better. Popular destinations fill up quickly, especially those with full amenities or waterfront spots. Research booking windows and policies ahead of time to avoid last-minute surprises.
Pack Appropriately
Spring weather can be unpredictable—sunny one day, chilly the next. Bring layered clothing, rain gear, and plenty of essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and flashlights. If you’re camping with kids, don’t forget games, books, or nature activity kits to keep them entertained during downtime.
Engage in Activities
Check your campground’s activity schedule and look into nearby attractions. Many resorts host family events, outdoor movies, nature walks, or arts and crafts for kids. Getting involved helps everyone make new friends and lasting memories.
Safety First
Set clear safety rules with kids about wandering off, campfires, and wildlife. Review campground guidelines together and keep a first-aid kit handy. A safe trip is a happy trip.
The Adventure Starts with the Right Destination
Spring break is more than just time off—it’s a chance to reconnect, explore, and create moments your family will never forget. Camping offers the perfect mix of nature, excitement, and togetherness, and with the right destination, it becomes a true getaway. Whether you’re chasing mountain air, desert skies, or beachfront bliss, there’s a spot for every type of family.
And if you want it all—location, luxury, and family-friendly fun—Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is the answer. Don’t wait. Book your spring break trip to Newport Dunes today and make this the vacation your family talks about for years to come.
