If getting in touch with your inner survivor sounds like your idea of a great bachelor party, camping is the way to go. This is awesome for adventurous and nature-loving grooms. Another major plus? It won’t break the bank. With so many beautiful sites to choose from, finding the perfect one can be overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for a place to pitch a tent or a cabin in the woods (no, that’s not cheating), you don’t need to worry because we’re here to help. Here are five of our favorite campgrounds for throwing an unforgettable bachelor party.
Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota
Crystal clear waters, an abundance of wildlife, and miles of lush forest characterize this incredible park. In addition to hiking trails and overlooks, the main attractions at this site are canoeing and kayaking. They offer “isolated” camping, so you don’t have to worry about disturbing others or worse, others disturbing you. Just make sure you double-check your packing list because are no nearby shops. Another thing to consider for this spot, as it is water based, you can only access it by boat. Don’t worry, you can easily book a charter on their website.
Assateague Island in Maryland
If you want to combine camping with beach going, Assateague is your place. You’ll have a blast hiking, biking, and driving around on ATVs (try not to crash). You won’t be the only stallions on the island, but we don’t think you’ll mind. This unique locale is home to approximately 150 wild horses. Remember, they’re not ponies, they’re wild animals. You wouldn’t try to straddle a bear, would you (if you would, you might need help from another website, or maybe a doctor)? Make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellant.
Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina
Pisgah National Forest has sometimes been called “Land of Waterfalls.” If that doesn’t grab you now, it will when you see it (you can thank us later). Hike and bike through the Appalachian Highlands (on one of the forest’s four long-distance trails if you’re up for the trek) and soak in all the nature you can handle. This location also offers “dispersed” camping so no worries about neighbors.
Sequoia National Park in California
Even if big trees don’t get you excited, you definitely won’t be bored at Sequoia. Of course there’s hiking and biking, but you can also rock climb, explore Crystal Cave, horseback ride, or even ski and snowshoe in the winter. You have to see this place to believe it. It’s the perfect place to sip champagne and just enjoy nature. Hey, you might even become a tree hugger.
Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska
If you’re willing to travel a bit, or you just happen to live in Alaska, head to Denali National Park for the camping experience of a lifetime. This is an incredible place to go backpacking among moose, bears, foxes, and wolves. You also have the option for rock climbing on North America’s tallest peak (Mount McKinley), but seriously, only attempt this with proper equipment and the supervision of a professional (the bride will be beyond upset if her husband-to-be comes back in pieces). If the groom is a dog-lover, you’ll definitely want to stop by one of the sled dog kennels to say hi to mushing legends and energetic young pups training for their first Iditarod.
Tips (for all campgrounds):
Make a reservation whenever possible. Even though many campgrounds offer sites that are open on a first come, first served basis, it’s much better to be safe than sorry.
Make sure you store your food properly. You wouldn’t want uninvited guests to show up, would you?
Stick together. Yeah, you might not think a buddy system is necessary for a group of big strong men, but trust us, when cell reception is nonexistent and you’re stumbling around off the trail, you won’t want to be alone.
Consider the season. If you’re throwing a winter bachelor party, you might want to look into other options. A freezing groom is not a happy groom.
BYOB (obviously) and don’t forget the bottle opener. That would suck.
Get all permits/passes/licenses beforehand. A camping bachelor party without these is like a wedding with no marriage license: not possible.
Written by Ariel Guterman
