The world is abundant with stunning locations, but what about those who want to enjoy nature’s beauty sitting in a hammock? In this guide, we’ll explore 14 of the best hammock camping destinations globally and all the information you need to plan your next unforgettable adventure. So, grab your gear, and let’s get started!
Here’s a quick table listing top hammock camping destinations. Scroll past the table to get a more detailed overview of each destination. Some destinations listed in the table are not explicitly discussed as those are honorable mentions.
| Location | Country | Region | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yosemite National Park | United States | California | Stunning waterfalls, granite cliffs, and diverse wildlife |
| Joshua Tree National Park | United States | California | Unique rock formations, desert vistas, and starry night skies |
| Glacier National Park | United States | Montana | Breathtaking mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows |
| Grand Teton National Park | United States | Wyoming | Majestic mountain peaks, abundant wildlife, and picturesque lakes |
| Big Bend National Park | United States | Texas | Dramatic canyons, desert landscapes, and the Rio Grande River |
| Voyageurs National Park | United States | Minnesota | Lush forests, tranquil waterways, and abundant wildlife |
| Assateague Island National Seashore | United States | Maryland | Pristine beaches, wild horses, and diverse birdlife |
| White Mountain National Forest | United States | New Hampshire | Scenic mountain ranges, lush forests, and stunning fall foliage |
| Acadia National Park | United States | Maine | Rugged coastline, dense forests, and diverse wildlife |
| Ace Hideaways | Scotland | Moray | Secluded woodland, picturesque rivers, and outdoor activities |
| Haggs Bank Bunkhouse and Campsite | England | Cumbria | Stunning Pennine views, nearby attractions, and hiking opportunities |
| Dreamy Hollow Woodland Campsite | England | Norfolk | Tranquil woodland setting, historical sites, and nature trails |
| Coed Tyle Crwn Woodland Campsite | Wales | Powys | Secluded forest, picturesque surroundings, and outdoor activities |
| Poole Bridge Camp Site | England | Somerset | Proximity to Exmoor National Park, coastal views, and hiking opportunities |
| Badgells Wood Camping | England | Kent | Lush woodland, family-friendly facilities, and nature trails |
| Pegs & Pitches Campsite | England | East Sussex | Tranquil woodland setting, nearby attractions, and outdoor activities |
| Ashbourne Woods Campsite | England | Devon | Secluded woodland, access to Dartmoor National Park, and hiking opportunities |
North American Hammock Camping Destinations
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Overview
Yosemite National Park, located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, covers an area of 1,169 square miles and is a must-visit destination for hammock campers. Known for its stunning waterfalls, granite cliffs, and sequoia forests, Yosemite offers a variety of scenic spots for setting up your hammock, with over 13 campgrounds to choose from.
Best spots
Some of the best spots for hammock camping in Yosemite include the Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow campgrounds. Remember to follow the park’s hammock camping guidelines, such as using tree-friendly straps and not hanging your hammock too high.
Activities and attractions
While in Yosemite, don’t miss the chance to explore famous sites such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. There are also numerous hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and wildlife viewing opportunities to enjoy.
Resource: Yosemite National Park
2. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Overview
Joshua Tree National Park, located in Southern California, covers an area of 1,235 square miles and features a unique desert landscape. The park’s striking scenery includes a mix of Mojave and Colorado desert environments, along with its namesake Joshua trees. With over 500 campsites across eight campgrounds, there are plenty of options for hammock campers.
Best spots
Some top spots for hammock camping in Joshua Tree include the Hidden Valley and Ryan campgrounds. Be sure to follow the park’s guidelines for hammock camping, such as using proper tree straps and respecting the fragile desert ecosystem.
Activities and attractions
Joshua Tree National Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and wildlife watching. Notable sites include the Cholla Cactus Garden, Keys View, and Skull Rock. Apart from Hammock, you can camp in a tent if that’s your interest or enjoy both hammock and tent simultaneously.
Resource: Joshua Tree National Park
3. Glacier National Park, Montana
Overview
Glacier National Park, situated in Montana, spans over one million acres and includes parts of two mountain ranges, over 130 named lakes, and more than 1,000 different species of plants. The park is home to over 700 miles of trails, making it a hiker’s paradise and an ideal destination for hammock camping.
Best spots
Some of the top spots for hammock camping in Glacier National Park include the Many Glacier and Two Medicine campgrounds. Be sure to follow the park’s guidelines for hammock camping to preserve the natural environment.
Activities and attractions
Glacier National Park offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife watching, fishing, and boating. Iconic sites worth visiting are the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Logan Pass, and Grinnell Glacier.
Resource: Glacier National Park
4. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Overview
Grand Teton National Park, located in Wyoming, covers 310,000 acres and is known for its dramatic Teton mountain range, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The park offers a variety of camping options, with six campgrounds and plenty of hammock-friendly sites.
Best spots
Some top spots for hammock camping in Grand Teton National Park include the Jenny Lake and Gros Ventre campgrounds. Be sure to follow the park’s guidelines for hammock camping, such as using tree-friendly straps and respecting the natural surroundings.
Activities and attractions
Grand Teton National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, fishing, and boating. Iconic sites worth visiting include the Teton Range, Jackson Lake, and the Snake River.
Resource: Grand Teton National Park
5. Big Bend National Park, Texas
Overview
Big Bend National Park, situated in Southwest Texas along the Rio Grande, covers over 800,000 acres and features a unique combination of desert, mountain, and river environments. The park has three developed campgrounds and numerous backcountry campsites, many of which are hammock-friendly.
Best spots
Some of the best spots for hammock camping in Big Bend National Park include the Chisos Basin and Rio Grande Village campgrounds. Be sure to follow the park’s hammock camping guidelines and obtain necessary backcountry permits for dispersed camping.
Activities and attractions
Big Bend National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, stargazing, birdwatching, and river trips. Must-visit sites include the Chisos Mountains, Santa Elena Canyon, and Boquillas Canyon.
Resource: Big Bend National Park
6. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Overview
Voyageurs National Park, located in northern Minnesota, spans over 218,000 acres and is known for its interconnected waterways, diverse forests, and abundant wildlife. The park is a true wilderness experience, with over 200 remote campsites accessible only by boat or canoe, many of which are suitable for hammock camping.
Best spots
Some top spots for hammock camping in Voyageurs National Park are found on the park’s many islands and shorelines. Remember to follow the park’s guidelines for hammock camping and obtain the necessary permits for camping in the backcountry.
Activities and attractions
Voyageurs National Park offers numerous outdoor activities, including boating, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife watching. Popular sites to visit include the Kabetogama Peninsula, Rainy Lake, and Ash River.
Resource: Voyageurs National Park
European Hammock Camping Destinations
7. Ace Hideaways, Moray, Scotland
Overview
Ace Hideaways is a unique camping destination nestled in the Scottish Highlands, offering a serene and secluded environment for hammock campers. The site, set within 65 acres of mixed woodland, provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the comfort of your hammock.
Best spots
The campsite has numerous well-spaced pitches, many of which are surrounded by trees, making them ideal for hammock camping. Choose a spot near the river or deeper into the woods, depending on your preference.
Activities and attractions
Ace Hideaways offers a variety of on-site activities, such as whitewater rafting, canoeing, and canyoning. Nearby attractions include the Findhorn Foundation, the Moray Coast, and the Cairngorms National Park.
Resource: Ace Hideaways
8. Haggs Bank Bunkhouse and Campsite, Alston, Cumbria
Overview
Haggs Bank Bunkhouse and Campsite is situated in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Cumbria, England. The campsite offers a peaceful setting with spectacular views, making it a fantastic destination for hammock campers.
Best spots
Many of the campsite’s pitches are surrounded by trees, providing ample opportunities for hammock camping. Choose a spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Activities and attractions
Haggs Bank is an ideal base for exploring the North Pennines, with numerous walking, cycling, and horse riding trails in the area. Nearby attractions include the South Tynedale Railway, High Force Waterfall, and Hadrian’s Wall.
Resource: Haggs Bank Bunkhouse and Campsite
9. Dreamy Hollow Woodland Campsite, Fakenham, Norfolk
Overview
Dreamy Hollow Woodland Campsite, located in North Norfolk, offers a unique camping experience in a beautiful woodland setting. The site has 14 acres of private woodland, providing hammock campers with a secluded and peaceful environment.
Best spots
The campsite features several designated hammock camping pitches, surrounded by trees and offering privacy and tranquility. Choose a spot that suits your preferences, whether you prefer a more open area or a secluded spot in the woods.
Activities and attractions
Dreamy Hollow is an excellent base for exploring the North Norfolk coast, with its beautiful beaches, quaint villages, and nature reserves. Nearby attractions include the Holkham Estate, the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway, and the Pensthorpe Natural Park.
Resource: Dreamy Hollow Woodland Campsite
10. Coed Tyle Crwn Woodland Campsite, Brecon, Powys
Overview
Coed Tyle Crwn Woodland Campsite is a small, eco-friendly campsite located in the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales. The site is set within 4 acres of ancient woodland, providing hammock campers with a serene and secluded environment.
Best spots
The campsite has several hammock-friendly pitches, surrounded by trees and offering privacy and seclusion. Choose a spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and enjoy the peace and quiet of the area.
Activities and attractions
Coed Tyle Crwn is an ideal base for exploring the Brecon Beacons, with numerous walking, cycling, and horse riding trails in the area. Nearby attractions include the Brecon Mountain Railway, Pen y Fan, and the Dan yr Ogof Showcaves.
Resource: Coed Tyle Crwn Woodland Campsite
11. Poole Bridge Camp Site, Porlock, Minehead, Somerset
Overview
Poole Bridge Campsite, located in the Exmoor National Park in Somerset, offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for hammock campers. The site is set within acres of private woodland, providing a secluded and tranquil environment.
Best spots
The campsite features several designated hammock camping pitches, surrounded by trees and offering privacy and seclusion. Choose a spot near the river or deeper into the woods, depending on your preference.
Activities and attractions
Poole Bridge is an excellent base for exploring Exmoor National Park, with numerous walking, cycling, and horse riding trails in the area. Nearby attractions include the medieval village of Dunster, the West Somerset Railway, and the coastal town of Lynton and Lynmouth.
Resource: Poole Bridge Camp Site
12. Badgells Wood Camping, Meopham, Kent
Overview
Badgells Wood Camping, situated in Kent, offers a unique woodland camping experience within easy reach of London. Set in 30 acres of ancient woodland, the site provides a serene and secluded environment for hammock campers.
Best spots
The campsite features numerous hammock-friendly pitches, surrounded by trees and offering privacy and tranquility. Choose a spot that suits your preferences, whether you prefer a more open area or a secluded spot in the woods.
Activities and attractions
Badgells Wood is an ideal base for exploring the Kent countryside, with numerous walking and cycling trails in the area. Nearby attractions include the historic town of Rochester, Leeds Castle, and the Bluewater Shopping Centre.
Resource: Badgells Wood Camping
13. Pegs & Pitches Campsite
Overview
Pegs & Pitches Campsite, located in East Sussex, is a beautiful and secluded campsite nested within 20 acres of a 600 acres woodland. The site offers a serene environment for hammock campers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Best spots
The campsite features numerous hammock-friendly pitches, surrounded by trees and offering privacy and seclusion. Choose a spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and enjoy the peace and quiet of the area.
Activities and attractions
Pegs & Pitches is an excellent base for exploring the Sussex countryside, with numerous walking, cycling, and horse riding trails in the area. Nearby attractions include the medieval town of Battle, the coastal town of Hastings, and the picturesque village of Rye.
Resource: Pegs & Pitches Campsite
14. Ashbourne Woods Campsite, South Brent, Devon
Overview
Ashbourne Woods Campsite, situated in South Devon, is set within 68 acres of private woodland, providing a tranquil and secluded environment for hammock campers. The site offers a mix of traditional camping pitches and unique glamping options, such as tree tents and shepherd’s huts.
Best spots
The campsite features several designated hammock camping pitches, surrounded by trees and offering privacy and seclusion. Choose a spot that suits your preferences, whether you prefer a more open area or a secluded spot in the woods.
Activities and attractions
Ashbourne Woods is an ideal base for exploring the South Devon countryside, with numerous walking and cycling trails in the area. Nearby attractions include Dartmoor National Park, the coastal town of Salcombe, and the historic city of Plymouth.
Resource: Ashbourne Woods Campsite
These top hammock camping destinations offer a diverse range of environments, from the rugged landscapes of national parks to the tranquil seclusion of private woodlands. Each destination provides unique attractions and activities, ensuring that your hammock camping experience is both memorable and enjoyable.
Tips for Hammock Camping at These Destinations
To make the most of your hammock camping adventure at these stunning locations, consider the following tips:
1. Research each destination in advance
Spend some time researching each destination before your trip, taking note of the best hammock camping spots, facilities, attractions, and activities. This will help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your time at each location.
2. Choose the right hammock and gear
Select a high-quality hammock designed for camping, along with appropriate suspension straps, a bug net, and a rainfly. Invest in a comfortable sleeping pad or underquilt to keep you warm and cozy during the night.
3. Practice Leave No Trace principles
When hammock camping, follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Choose established camping spots, avoid damaging trees with your hammock straps, and pack out all your trash and belongings.
4. Prepare for the local climate
Each destination has its own unique climate, so be prepared for the weather conditions you might encounter during your trip. Pack appropriate clothing layers, as well as rain gear and a warm sleeping bag.
5. Learn from the locals
Don’t hesitate to chat with locals and fellow campers at each destination, as they can often provide valuable insights and tips on the best spots, attractions, and activities in the area.
6. Enjoy the journey
Remember that hammock camping is about more than just reaching your destination; it’s about enjoying the journey and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. Take your time, savor the experience, and create lasting memories.
Stay Safe and Respect Local Regulations
As you explore these incredible hammock camping destinations, it’s essential to prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations. Here are a few safety tips and reminders to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
1. Check for hammock camping restrictions
Some parks or campsites may have specific rules or restrictions regarding hammock camping. Always check with local authorities or park rangers to ensure you’re following the regulations and guidelines in place.
2. Select appropriate trees
Choose sturdy, healthy trees at least 6 inches in diameter to support your hammock. Avoid trees with dead branches, and use wide tree straps to minimize damage to the tree bark.
3. Hang your hammock at a safe height
To prevent injury from falls, hang your hammock no more than 18 inches off the ground. Make sure your suspension straps are secure and tightly fastened before getting into your hammock.
4. Be aware of wildlife
Respect the wildlife in your chosen destination and follow guidelines for storing food and disposing of waste. Keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter, and avoid feeding them to protect both the animals and yourself.
5. Prepare for emergencies
Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit and familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures. Ensure you have a reliable means of communication in case of emergencies, and inform someone of your travel plans and expected return date.
6. Follow local fire regulations
Always adhere to local fire regulations and guidelines when building a campfire. Use established fire rings when available, and never leave a fire unattended. Ensure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area.
By following these safety tips and respecting local regulations, you can enjoy a memorable and responsible hammock camping experience at these stunning destinations. Happy trails, and safe hanging!
Michael is heavily inclined towards traveling to natural places and documenting cultures/people from different parts of the world. He also loves hiking and camping and is spirited toward all outdoor activities. He will share his passion for outdoor life and brands or products we use outside our homes. He has good research skills, and that’s why you can see why his articles are packed with info that is factual and not readily available. He also has the vision to travel the whole world and share it with all readers of Outdoor Favor.
