20 Under the Radar Fall Camping Spots

There's nothing quite like sparking a campfire in autumn. Whether you covet cooler weather, fall foliage or peace and quiet close to Mother Nature, these under-the-radar camping destinations are sure to do the trick.

Vermont's Groton State Forest spans more than 26,000 acres and encompasses more than a half-dozen state parks, including Kettle Pond State Park, where visitors will find 26 lean-to sites for group camping, seven remote lean-to's and one remote tent site.

Located in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is known for its natural springs and charming historic district. However, it's also home to some exceptional campgrounds, including Kettle Campground and the Green Tree Lodge. Lake Leatherwood City Park is also open through mid-November.

If you're eyeing a camping trip to the Great Smoky Mountains this fall, consider Cherokee, North Carolina. In addition to its eye-popping scenery, comfortable camping and endless activities, visitors can immerse themselves in thousands of years of history and culture in what is the current home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

One of America's most scenic camping destinations, Pennsylvania's Ricketts Glen State Park offers a variety of camping opportunities, including modern cabins available year-round. Visitors will want to check out the fall foliage as they hike the Falls Trail System featuring more than 20 named waterfalls.

Finding the ideal fall campground in Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests shouldn't be challenging as the area spans well over two million acres in Colorado and Wyoming. Cabin rentals are available as well as developed campgrounds and dispersed camping for those looking to pitch a tent.

Campers hoping to experience South Carolina's Congaree National Park should reserve a site at either Longleaf Campground or Bluff Campground in advance or obtain a backcountry permit in person at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Once settled, you'll want to begin exploring the 20,000-acre park via foot, kayak and canoe.

Maine's Camden Hills State Park is undoubtedly one of the prettiest in the country as it overlooks the Penobscot Bay and the picturesque Camden Village. Campers looking to hike Mount Battie should keep in mind that sites at Maine State Campgrounds are first come, first served beginning September 10.

Dubbed the "Little Smokies," Indiana's Brown County State Park is the state's largest park and beloved for its fall colors. After all, visitors will discover nearly 20 miles of tree-lined roads and no shortage of scenic views of seemingly endless forestland.

Located along the Platte River, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers travelers an array of accommodations within close proximity to a slew of attractions, including Platte River State Park, the Strategic Air and Space Museum and multiple golf courses.

There's a whole lot to see in Idaho's expansive Sawtooth National Forest and plenty of quality campgrounds to ensure you have time to see it all. The 2.1-plus-million-acre forest encompasses mountain ranges, rivers, streams and multiple species of plants and animals that can't be found anywhere else.

Beverly Beach State Park is the place to be for travelers seeking exceptional whale watching opportunities. What's more, the Pacific Northwest camping destination boasts pet-friendly yurts, among other stellar facilities.

Visitors to Arizona's Prescott National Forest will find both family campgrounds and dispersed camping sites, most of which are open all year or at least through October 31. The forest is a popular spot for hiking, fishing and even gold panning.

Maryland's Catoctin Mountain Park offers more than two-dozen miles of hiking trails as well as historic camping cabins dating back to the 1930s. Scenic mountain views are everywhere and they are only enhanced come autumn.

Located along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Warren Dunes State Park is known for its 260-foot-high dune formation rising above the lake. The pet-friendly camping destination also boasts more than 220 modern and rustic campsites.

Texas' Lost Maples State Natural Area is renowned for its fall color. Located just two hours northwest of San Antonio, this scenic area offers 30 campsites outfitted with water and electricity as well as six primitive sites for more experienced backpackers. There are also more than 10 miles of trails and fishing opportunities in the Sabinal River and Can Creek.

Hillsborough River State Park is incredibly convenient for first-time campers as its located just a few minutes from downtown Tampa, Florida. The park is also sure to be a hit with kayakers in the region as it offers Class II rapids, a rarity in the Sunshine State.

Southern California's Mojave National Preserve is an awfully unique place. After all, it features everything from singing sand dunes and volcanic cinder cones to abandoned mines and wildflowers. Make it a multi-day stop on your fall trip between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.

Easily one of Wisconsin's most scenic state parks, Copper Falls is a no-brainer for mountain bikers as it boasts not one but three different trails to explore. The park also offers hiking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing and more as well as a variety of camping opportunities, including spots for RVs, tents and trailers.

Letchworth State Park was voted the best attraction in New York last year. Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the East," the park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise and offers stellar camping facilities, including winterized cabins.

Babcock State Park is quintessential West Virginia and is not to be missed this fall. Located just a few miles south of the state's most iconic landmark in the New River Gorge Bridge, the park offers hiking, fishing and boating as well as the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a fully functional replica of the original Cooper's Mill and a popular stop for photographers.