Yosemite, Grand Canyon offer campgrounds widely considered among America’s best

As Americans reflect on our 250-year history as a sovereign nation, there’s never been a better time to appreciate the breathtaking natural beauty the country has to offer.

Several campgrounds have been located within federally protected landscapes for more than a century.

Yosemite Valley, for example, was protected under the Yosemite Grant that President Abraham Lincoln signed in June 1864.

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The area became Yosemite National Park in 1890, decades before the country’s other iconic national parks were established in the early 20th century.

James Kaiser, Montana-based author of several national park guides, said each of our featured campgrounds offers a unique way to experience America’s natural landscapes.

“North Pines in Yosemite and Watchman in Zion offer breathtaking views, even by national park standards,” he told Fox News Digital.

“Both are located under high cliffs and you will enjoy a spectacular light show. [the] golden hour … When it’s time for bed, you’ll sleep under a sparkling blanket of stars.”

Blackwoods, Mather and Many Glacier are all located in forests with more limited views, but campers are in close proximity to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery, he noted.

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These campgrounds are “steps away from some of America’s most spectacular landscapes—the rugged shores, the multicolored depths of Maine.” [the] “The soaring peaks of the Grand Canyon and the Glacier,” he said.

Here are five campgrounds generally considered the best across the country.

1. North Pines Campground in Yosemite National Park

North Pines Campground is one of three campgrounds in Yosemite Valley that accepts reservations.

The campground is known for waterfalls, granite cliffs, deep valleys and ancient giant sequoias, according to Recreation.gov.

The site notes that campsites often sell out within minutes of becoming available.

Campgrounds are located near the Merced River, which offers rafting opportunities. Hiking, cycling, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing and photography are also popular.

Campsites in Yosemite often sell out within minutes of going on sale. (iStock)

2. Mather Campground in Grand Canyon National Park

This campground is steps from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, where visitors can see famous panoramic views.

The National Park Service (NPS) website states that the campground offers 327 campsites.

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“Each features a campfire ring… picnic table, parking area and room for up to six people, three tents and two vehicles,” the site says.

According to the site, there are flush toilets and potable water.

The campground offers 15 sites that go on sale at 8 a.m. each day, on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are no hookups or electricity on site.

Mather Campground puts visitors just steps away from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. (Robbin Goddard/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

3. Ranger Campground in Zion National Park

Watchman Campground near Virgin River offers easy access to hiking trails, biking, ranger programs, photography and stargazing.

“Zion is known for its dynamic geological history, and Watchman Campground is no exception,” says Recreation.gov.

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Named for the rocky peak above it, the campground is surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs that appear red and orange during sunrise and sunset.

Campers can also cool off in the river that runs right next to the campsite.

Travelers can get very close to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery at the best campsites in the country. (Josh Brasted/Getty Images)

4. Many Glacier Campgrounds in Glacier National Park

Many Glacier Campgrounds are located within Glacier National Park near Browning, Montana.

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The campground offers hiking, backpacking, wildlife viewing and fishing amidst high mountain peaks, alpine lakes and dense forest.

Recreation.gov notes that the facility is located in Douglas fir, contact pine and aspen forest. “The vegetation is dense and provides partial shade for nearly all campsites,” the site says.

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Officials warn that although tree cover provides some protection, high winds are possible at times.

Many Glacier Campgrounds are on the east side of the Continental Divide. The site says the trails are suitable for day hiking and overnight backpacking.

Many Glacier Campgrounds are nestled among Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and aspen trees that provide shade for much of the campground. (iStock)

5. Blackwoods Campground in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is the only national park in New England.

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It offers visitors access to the rugged Atlantic coastline, as well as granite peaks and scenic hiking trails.

Located on Mount Desert Island, Blackwoods Campground provides campers with access to mountains, lakes, streams, wetlands, forests, meadows, and beaches.

America’s national park campgrounds offer visitors the chance to experience towering mountains, deep valleys, forests, rivers, and beautiful coastlines. (DeAgostini/Getty Images)

According to Recreation.gov, all campsites are forested and within a 10-minute walk of the ocean.

Shoreline walks, mountain hikes, biking, kayaking and narrated boat trips are favorite Acadia pastimes.