Can’t decide where to go for Spring Break 2022? I feel the struggle. Not only is it a short week off of school and work, but much of the United States is still chilly during this time of year! If you’re like me, you’re probably looking for some nice sunshine and an adventure in the great outdoors. Look no further! I have compiled this list of fun national parks to visit in the springtime! Let’s get to it!
Saguaro National Park, AZ
With lows in the 50s and highs in the low 80s, you can explore this desert wonderland in the Spring without freezing or burning up. The national park gets its name from the hundred-year-old saguaro cacti that populate the area. Spring is the best time to visit to catch blooming desert vegetation! There are also two sides of the park – the Rincon District on the east and the Tucson Mountain District on the west – that offer different landscapes for you to explore.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC/TN
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited and loved parks in the United States! The rolling mountains, greenery, wildlife, and fantastic waterfalls leave guests coming back every year. Spring is the best time to see cascades flowing at their peak, fields blossoming with wildflowers, and fireflies dotting the night sky. And, as part of the Appalachian trail, this national park is home to some pretty awesome paths. Check out this blog post for some of the best hikes in the Smokies! Make it a fully immersive nature experience and stay with us at our Great Smoky Mountain Location!
Joshua Tree National Park, CA
More desert? I’m in! Joshua Tree is home to many fantastic trails and the funky-looking Joshua Trees that speckle the area. It is the perfect place to hop on your mountain bike, walk on hiking paths, and rock climb your heart out. The desert climate will keep you warm in the day but cool in the night, perfect for a nice campout.
Yellowstone National Park, WY
If you’re looking to explore a winter wonderland, try visiting Yellowstone! It’s definitely still cold during this time of the year (highs in the 40s and lows in the teens) so make sure to pack layers. The snowshoeing scene is fantastic! If your break falls later in the spring, you’d get to see lots of newborn bison and moose calves. How cute! If you can’t make it to Yellowstone in the spring, be sure to come stay with us in the summer!
Big Bend National Park, TX
Big Bend is a very remote location that would be perfect for some alone time with you, your family, and nature. Here you’ll find over 1,500 different species of plants and animals, as well as a night sky dark enough to see the Milky Way. Some of the best activities to do here are kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and bird watching. Add this park to your bucket list and get a taste of the Texas wilderness!
Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
This popular western park is arguably one of America’s biggest gems. The red rock canyons and popular hiking trails will be a treat to experience after a long winter. Our glampsite would be the perfect stay for this trip! If you want to learn more about what there is to do at the Grand Canyon, scroll down to the bottom of our Grand Canyon booking page to read more blog posts!
Everglades National Park, Florida
Florida is notorious for its protected swamplands. The springtime is near the end of the dry season in the Everglades, and the perfect time to spot some wildlife! Alligators, manatees, and toads will make you feel like you are in the live action Princess and the Frog! Be sure to add this park to your list of places to visit this year.
Death Valley National Park, CA
Death Valley gets its name for being the hottest and driest place in North America. I know it doesn’t sound like much fun to be outside in scorching heat, but never fear! The springtime is lovely; you’ll experience highs in the 80s and lows in the 50s. So, get your Death Valley vacation in while it’s doable! The most amazing thing to see in this park is the region called the Artist’s Palette. Mineral deposits from old volcanic activity coat the rocks in beautiful, vibrant colors. It’s unreal!
Arches National Park, UT
The real life Radiator Springs! Apparently I’m feeling Disney right now. Arches National Park is a great spring break trip for nice weather and avoiding crowds. With over 2,000 natural rock arches, this location is a must-see! Be sure to book in advance as they require reservations. Checkout our Arches booking page as well as the blog posts at the bottom to learn more about what to do here!
Carlsbad Caverns, NM
Last but not least, we have Carlsbad Caverns. This is one of my family’s go-to spring break destinations! About 120 caves full of stalactites, stalagmites, and streams make up this ominous park. No need to worry about bad weather, because you will be exploring beneath the surface! If you visit in the late spring, you may get to see the thousands of bats migrating back to Carlsbad after a winter in Brazil.
There you have it! I hope this article gave you some ideas on where to visit for Spring Break 2022. If you’re looking for a true adventure, check out our campsites that open between March and April: Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, and Canyonlands/Arches.
Post written by: Camryn Tippets