The Camping Club

5 Outdoor Escapes for Winter

Skip the ski slopes this winter and take the family camping. Here are five places where lodging is cheaper than a lift ticket.

Death Valley, California

Tour 3.4 million acres of desert and mountains in Death Valley--the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Sitting 282 feet below sea level, it is also is the lowest, hottest and driest valley in the U.S., making it a great winter getaway.

Camp at Furnace Creek» 

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

"Winters are delightful" in Saguaro National Park--According to the National Park Service. And with 165 miles of hiking trails there are plenty of ways to take advantage of the good weather.

Camp at Whitetail Campground» 

Big Thicket National Preserve, Texas

The wide variety of species that coexist here make Big Thicket a great place to explore the diversity of America's wilderness.

Camp at Village Creek State Park» 

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5 Campgrounds for Winter Sports Enthusiasts

Activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are sure to keep you warm at one of these cold-weather campsites.

Farragut State Park, Idaho

Take advantage of groomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails in the park, plus miles of snowmobile trails just south of the park. Don't forget to pack your sled and hit up the amphitheater bowl where the real action takes place.

Eleven Mile, Colorado

Eleven Mile's large reservoir, where three Colorado Classic Ice Fishing Tournament events are held, is popular among ice fishermen, but it also provides a great setting for ice skating, ice boating and cross-county skiing. 

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