1. Pacific Northwest Escapes
The Pacific Northwest is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering a perfect mix of fishing and camping adventures. Washington and Oregon are especially popular for their lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and cool coastal rivers. Whether youre casting a line for trophy trout in a mountain lake or chasing salmon in a rushing river, this region has it all.
Top Fishing Spots in the Pacific Northwest
| Location | Target Fish Species | Camping Options |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Chelan, WA | Kokanee Salmon, Lake Trout | State Parks, Lakeside Campgrounds |
| Deschutes River, OR | Steelhead, Rainbow Trout | Riverside Campsites, BLM Land |
| Crescent Lake, OR | Mackinaw (Lake Trout), Kokanee | Forest Service Campgrounds |
| Quinault River, WA | Chinook Salmon, Cutthroat Trout | Rainforest Campgrounds |
What Makes It Special?
- Lush Scenery: Towering evergreens and mossy trails make every hike to the water an adventure.
- Diverse Waters: From alpine lakes to mighty rivers, there’s a wide variety of fishing environments.
- Abundant Wildlife: You might spot bald eagles, elk, or even black bears while you camp and fish.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall is ideal for fishing and camping in the Pacific Northwest. This is when the weather is mild and fish are most active.
Pro Tip:
Try fly fishing on the Deschutes River during the summer hatch season—its a favorite among local anglers!
2. Rocky Mountain Retreats
If youre craving fresh mountain air and unforgettable backcountry experiences, the Rocky Mountains are calling your name. Stretching across Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming, this region offers some of the best fly fishing and camping opportunities in the country. Whether you’re pitching a tent beside a crystal-clear alpine lake or casting a line into a rushing mountain stream, these rugged retreats deliver on adventure and serenity.
Why Fish & Camp Here?
The Rockies are known for their untouched beauty and abundant fish populations. Anglers will find trout-rich waters—rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and brown trout are common here. High-altitude lakes and remote rivers make for thrilling fly-fishing experiences. Camping is just as rewarding, with countless dispersed sites in national forests and designated campgrounds offering stunning views of towering peaks and lush valleys.
Top Spots in the Rockies
| Location | State | Main Fish Species | Camping Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flat Tops Wilderness | Colorado | Cutthroat Trout | Tent/Backcountry |
| Bighorn River | Montana | Brown & Rainbow Trout | Campsites/RV Friendly |
| Teton Wilderness | Wyoming | Cutthroat Trout | Tent/Dispersed Camping |
A Few Tips:
- Packing smart: Weather can change quickly in the mountains. Bring layers and waterproof gear.
- Bait & flies: Local fly shops often have the best advice on what’s working that week.
- Bears are real: Always store food properly and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Your Rocky Mountain getaway is more than just a trip—it’s a chance to unplug, unwind, and maybe catch the fish of a lifetime.
3. Southern Hotspots
The Southern U.S. is a dream come true for anglers and campers alike. With its mild climate and diverse waterways, you can enjoy fishing nearly all year long. Whether youre casting for bass in the clear lakes of Texas or reeling in catfish from Alabama’s winding rivers, the South offers something for everyone. Plus, there are plenty of family-friendly campsites that make it easy to turn your fishing trip into a full-on outdoor getaway.
Top Fishing and Camping Spots in the South
| Location | Main Fish Species | Camping Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Fork, Texas | Largemouth Bass | RV hookups, tent camping, boat ramps |
| Guntersville Lake, Alabama | Bass, Catfish | Lakeside cabins, picnic areas, family facilities |
| Toledo Bend Reservoir, Louisiana/Texas border | Crappie, Bass | Scenic campgrounds, hiking trails, fishing piers |
| Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia | Bream, Pickerel, Catfish | Primitive camping, canoe rentals, wildlife viewing |
| Kentucky Lake, Tennessee/Kentucky border | Catfish, Crappie, Bass | Full-service campsites, water access, playgrounds |
Why the South is Great for Fishing and Camping
The Southern states offer a mix of natural beauty and accessibility. Most locations are just a short drive from major cities yet feel completely remote once you arrive. The regions warm weather means longer seasons for both fishing and camping—no need to wait for summer! Many sites also feature amenities like boat rentals and bait shops right on the property.
Best Time to Visit:
While many Southern spots are open year-round, spring and fall are ideal times for both pleasant weather and active fish populations. Summer is great too—just be ready for the heat!
4. Great Lakes Getaways
If youre looking for the perfect mix of freshwater fishing and lakeside camping, the Great Lakes region in the Midwest is a must-visit. The area is home to five massive lakes, but Lake Michigan and Lake Erie stand out as top choices for anglers and campers alike.
Fish-Rich Waters
Lake Michigan and Lake Erie are both known for their diverse fish populations. Whether you’re casting from shore or heading out on a boat, you’ll have a great shot at landing popular species like walleye, perch, smallmouth bass, and even lake trout.
| Lake | Popular Fish Species | Best Time to Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Michigan | Salmon, Trout, Smallmouth Bass | Spring through Fall |
| Lake Erie | Walleye, Perch, Bass | Late Spring to Early Fall |
Lakeside Camping Spots
The Great Lakes aren’t just about fishing — they also offer some of the most scenic campgrounds in the country. You can set up your tent or RV right by the water and enjoy beautiful sunrises, beach activities, and quiet evenings by the campfire.
Top Campgrounds Near Lake Michigan and Lake Erie:
- Indiana Dunes State Park (IN): Sandy beaches meet wooded trails just steps from Lake Michigan.
- East Harbor State Park (OH): Located on the shores of Lake Erie with easy access to fishing piers and boat ramps.
- Warren Dunes State Park (MI): Offers high dunes with panoramic views and a short walk to the lakefront.
Why Choose a Great Lakes Getaway?
This region offers something for everyone — from serious anglers targeting trophy fish to families looking for a relaxing weekend of swimming, grilling, and roasting marshmallows under the stars. With clean campsites, well-maintained facilities, and stunning natural beauty, its no wonder so many people return year after year.
5. Northeast Outdoor Havens
When it comes to combining scenic beauty, great fishing, and peaceful camping, the Northeast delivers in a big way. Venture into upstate New York, Maine, and Pennsylvania for a variety of outdoor experiences that include river, lake, and coastal fishing. These states offer not only productive waters but also cozy forested campsites perfect for relaxing after a day on the water.
Top Spots to Fish and Camp in the Northeast
| Location | Type of Fishing | Camping Features |
|---|---|---|
| Adirondack Mountains, NY | Lake trout, bass, pike | Rustic campsites, hiking trails, mountain views |
| Kennebec River, ME | Landlocked salmon, brook trout | Riverside camping, access to whitewater adventures |
| Pine Creek Gorge (PA Grand Canyon), PA | Brown trout, smallmouth bass | Secluded campgrounds, scenic overlooks |
Why Anglers Love the Northeast
The mix of freshwater lakes, flowing rivers, and even access to Atlantic coastal waters makes this region ideal for all types of anglers. Whether youre fly fishing in a cold mountain stream or casting from a canoe on a quiet lake at sunrise, youll find plenty of opportunities to reel in something memorable.
A Classic Americana Experience
Campsites here tend to be surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. It’s the kind of place where you can roast marshmallows under the stars and wake up to birdsong in the crisp morning air. The Northeast is perfect for families looking to escape city life or solo travelers seeking peace and solitude.
6. Western Wonders
From the rugged peaks of the Sierra Nevada in California to the sun-soaked desert lakes of Arizona, the western U.S. is a paradise for those who love both fishing and camping. This region offers stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and incredible opportunities to catch bass, trout, catfish, and more—all while camping under star-filled skies.
Top Fishing and Camping Spots in the West
| Destination | State | Main Fish Species | Camping Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakes Basin Recreation Area | California | Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout | Scenic alpine lakes, remote campsites |
| Lake Powell | Arizona/Utah | Striped Bass, Catfish | Houseboat camping, red rock canyons |
| Pyramid Lake | Nevada | Lahontan Cutthroat Trout | Beach camping, Native American lands |
| Crater Lake National Park | Oregon | Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout | Volcanic scenery, forested campgrounds |
| Flathead Lake | Montana | Lake Trout, Whitefish | Lakeside RV parks and tent sites |
Sierra Nevada – A Trout Angler’s Dream
The Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to countless streams and lakes filled with trout. Areas like Mammoth Lakes and Lake Tahoe offer not only great fishing but also well-maintained campgrounds with easy access to hiking trails and crystal-clear waters.
Desert Lakes with Big Rewards
Don’t let the dry landscape fool you—desert lakes like Lake Havasu and Roosevelt Lake in Arizona are hotspots for largemouth and smallmouth bass. These warm-water reservoirs often allow dispersed camping along their shores, giving you a front-row seat to sunrise fishing sessions.
Tips for Fishing and Camping in the West:
- Prepare for altitude: Many Western spots are at higher elevations; pack layers and stay hydrated.
- Check fire restrictions: Wildfire danger can lead to campfire bans during summer months.
- Secure your food: In bear country areas like Yosemite or Montana, use bear-proof containers.
- Get proper permits: Some areas require special fishing or backcountry camping permits.
If youre looking for unforgettable views paired with world-class fishing and serene camping experiences, the Western U.S. has it all—from mountain lakes to desert oases.
