Best Camping Festivals In The US

Camping and festivals go hand in hand, and the US has plenty of both. Combining the two creates a unique experience where you can enjoy live music, outdoor activities, and connect with like-minded people. Here are the top camping festivals in the US that you should add to your bucket list.

🎶 Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival 🎨

Located in Manchester, Tennessee, Bonnaroo is one of the most popular music and arts festivals in the US. The four-day event takes place in June and features a diverse lineup of musical acts, from indie rock to hip hop. Bonnaroo also has plenty of art installations, comedy shows, and food vendors to keep you entertained.

🌵 Coachella 🌴

Coachella, located in Indio, California, is a two-weekend festival that takes place in April. The festival is known for its diverse musical lineup and celebrity sightings. In addition to live music, Coachella also features art installations, a Ferris wheel, and plenty of food options. Camping is a popular option, but there are also nearby hotels and rental homes.

🎸 Electric Forest 🌲

Electric Forest is held in Rothbury, Michigan, and is a unique camping festival experience. The festival takes place in a forest, and the stages and installations are integrated into the natural surroundings. The four-day event features a mix of electronic, jam band, and hip hop music. There are also yoga classes, art installations, and workshops to enjoy.

🌊 Hangout Music Festival 🏖️

The Hangout Music Festival takes place in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and is a beachfront festival that offers camping options. The three-day event features a mix of indie, rock, and electronic music, with plenty of food and drink options. The festival also has a Ferris wheel and other carnival rides, as well as beach activities like volleyball and surfing.

🎤 Lollapalooza 🎡

Lollapalooza is held in Chicago, Illinois, and is a four-day festival that takes place in August. The festival features a diverse lineup of musical acts, from alternative rock to hip hop. Lollapalooza also has plenty of food and drink options, as well as art installations and a Kidzapalooza area for families.

🎵 Newport Folk Festival 🎻

The Newport Folk Festival takes place in Newport, Rhode Island, and is a weekend camping festival for folk music fans. The festival features a mix of established and up-and-coming artists, with plenty of food vendors and artisanal crafts for sale. The festival also has a Kids’ Tent with music and art activities.

🍻 Oktoberfest 🥨

Oktoberfest is a popular camping festival held in Munich, Germany, but there are also plenty of US cities that host their own versions. Oktoberfest is a celebration of Bavarian culture, with plenty of beer, bratwurst, and live music. The festival also has carnival rides, games, and parades.

🌵 Sasquatch! Music Festival 🎧

The Sasquatch! Music Festival takes place in George, Washington, and is a three-day festival that features a mix of indie, rock, and electronic music. The festival also has comedy shows, art installations, and plenty of food and drink options. Camping is available, but there are also nearby hotels and rental homes.

🎭 South by Southwest 🎬

The South by Southwest festival, also known as SXSW, takes place in Austin, Texas, and is a week-long event that combines music, film, and interactive media. The festival features a mix of established and up-and-coming artists, as well as film screenings and panel discussions. SXSW also has plenty of food and drink options, as well as tech demos and workshops.

👩‍🎤 Stagecoach 🤠

Stagecoach is held in Indio, California, and is a three-day festival that celebrates country music. The festival features a mix of established and up-and-coming country artists, as well as food and drink options. Camping is available, but there are also nearby hotels and rental homes.

🌳 Summer Camp Music Festival 🎵

The Summer Camp Music Festival takes place in Chillicothe, Illinois, and is a four-day festival that features a mix of jam band, electronic, and bluegrass music. The festival also has art installations, disc golf, and plenty of food and drink options. Camping is available, but there are also nearby hotels and rental homes.

🎶 The Governors Ball Music Festival 🎤

The Governors Ball Music Festival takes place in New York City, New York, and is a three-day festival that features a mix of indie, rock, and hip hop music. The festival also has food vendors, art installations, and games. Camping is not available, but there are nearby hotels and rental homes.

🌞 Wakarusa 🎸

Wakarusa takes place in Ozark, Arkansas, and is a four-day festival that features a mix of jam band, electronic, and folk music. The festival also has workshops, yoga classes, and plenty of food and drink options. Camping is available, but there are also nearby hotels and rental homes.

🎉 Burning Man 🏜️

Burning Man is a unique camping festival held in Black Rock City, Nevada, and is known for its art installations and community spirit. The festival is a week-long event that takes place in the desert and features a mix of music, art, and interactive experiences. Participants are encouraged to bring their own food, water, and supplies.

FAQ

1. Do I need to bring my own camping gear to these festivals?

Yes, most festivals require you to bring your own camping gear, including tents, sleeping bags, and cooking supplies. Some festivals offer pre-set camping packages for an additional fee.

2. Are these festivals family-friendly?

Some festivals offer kid-friendly activities and areas, but others are geared more towards adults. Check the festival’s website for more information on family-friendly options.

3. Can I bring my own food and drinks into the festival?

Most festivals allow you to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks, but alcohol is typically not allowed. Check the festival’s website for more information on their policies.

4. Is there transportation available to these festivals?

Some festivals offer shuttle services or have nearby public transportation options, but many require you to drive or arrange your own transportation.

5. What should I pack for a camping festival?

You should pack camping essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies, as well as festival-specific items like comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

6. Are pets allowed at these festivals?

Most festivals do not allow pets, but some may make exceptions for service animals. Check the festival’s website for their pet policy.

7. Can I buy tickets at the festival?

Tickets are usually available for purchase online before the festival, but some festivals may offer on-site ticket sales if they haven’t sold out. Check the festival’s website for more information on ticket sales.

8. What is the weather like at these festivals?

The weather varies by location and time of year, but most festivals take place in the summer months and can be hot and humid. Be sure to check the weather forecast before packing.

9. Do I need to bring cash to the festival?

Most festivals have ATMs on-site, but it’s always a good idea to bring cash for food, drinks, and other purchases.

10. Can I bring my own musical instrument to the festival?

Some festivals allow you to bring your own musical instrument, but others may have restrictions or require a permit. Check the festival’s website for more information.

11. What is the age limit for these festivals?

Most festivals are open to all ages, but some may have age restrictions for certain areas or events. Check the festival’s website for more information.

12. Can I volunteer at the festival?

Many festivals offer volunteer opportunities, including helping with set-up, tear-down, and other tasks. Check the festival’s website for more information on volunteer opportunities.

13. What happens if it rains during the festival?

Most festivals continue rain or shine, but some may have contingency plans in case of severe weather. Check the festival’s website for their policies on weather-related cancellations or delays.

Conclusion

Camping festivals are a great way to experience live music and connect with like-minded people. From Bonnaroo to Burning Man, there’s a festival for every taste and style. Be sure