10 Gorgeous Waterfront Campgrounds in the U.S.

7. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Michigan)

The Pictured Rocks in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Photo by *clairity* via Flickr.

Named for the mineral streaks that adorn their cliff faces, the rocks of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore rise above Lake Superior, around which both day hikers and backpackers can enjoy a 42-mile section of national scenic trail. The area is also rife with waterfalls running off a massive sandstone formation; the trails to many are laden with wildflowers in springtime. The water of the lake itself is generally chilly year-round, but a campground above Twelvemile Beach is ideally suited for beach walks and picnics; all of the area's rustic and peaceful campsites even have solar-powered wells.

8. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park (Kentucky)

Fishing on Lake Cumberland. Photo via Kentucky Department of Travel.

The first frontiersman to make his way into Kentucky, way back in 1750, named the Cumberland River (and the mountains around it) after Prince William, Duke of Cumberland. Today, the lake formed by a dam on that river is a prime boating destination and considered one of the best places to fish in the eastern United States. Nestled amid beech, oak, and hickory forests, Lake Cumberland State Resort Park has plenty to offer those who prefer other forms of recreation too: Visitors can opt for guided horseback trail rides, naturalist-led programs on the local flora and fauna, easy hikes, geocaching (a high-tech treasure hunting game), or frisbee golf.

9. Pocomoke River State Park (Maryland)

Paddling in Pocomoke River State Park. Photos via Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Visitors to Milburn Landing and Shad Landing can paddle between the two campgrounds, located on opposite sides of the Pocomoke Cypress Swamp, fed by the Pocomoke, or "black water," river. The area contains hiking trails through some 15,000 acres of forest, as well as water trails through the swamp, the better to keep an eye out for wildlife. River otters, bald eagles, and two regionally rare species of warbler make their home in Pocomoke River State Park, amid the loblolly pines, white dogwood, and pink laurel, while a nearby preserve hosts 20 species of neotropical migratory birds.

10. Cape Lookout National Seashore (North Carolina)

Beach camping on Cape Lookout National Seashore (left) and the distinctive Cape Lookout Lighthouse (right). Photos via U.S. National Park Service.

Only reachable by boat, the Cape Lookout National Seashore protects the southern-most part of the Outer Banks barrier islands. Its wide beaches, low dunes, and salt marshes make an idyllic setting for swimming and surfing; tidepooling and birdwatching; and catching fish, clams, and crabs. Camping amid the dunes is a real do-it-yourself experience; there are few amenities and campers must bring everything they need -- including firewood and fresh water -- and take it all back out again. A small price to pay to preserve such a peaceful place.

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