10 Budget Backpacking in the U.S.: The Best Hidden Gems and Affordable Destinations
Introduction to Affordable Backpacking Destinations:
When most people think of travel in the U.S., their minds jump to pricey cities like New York, San Francisco, or Miami. But for backpackers—especially those of us looking for affordable backpacking destinations—the real adventure lies well beyond the crowds. The truth is, you don’t need to spend big to have a rich and rewarding experience.
Some of the best backpacking destinations in the country are tucked away from the usual tourist trail. These hidden gems often deliver more solitude, more scenery, and far fewer costs. You’ll find wild spaces where a backcountry permit cost next to nothing. On top of that, these trails not only cost you no money but are also scenic.
This article dives into just that—affordable, lesser-known spots around the U.S. where budget backpackers can roam, explore, and reconnect with nature without breaking the bank.
List of Budget-friendly Destinations Around the U.S:
You don’t need a luxury RV or five-star lodge to enjoy some of the best hiking and backpacking the U.S. has to offer. In fact, some of the most memorable trips come from the places you don’t see plastered all over social media. These lesser-known spots might not get as much attention as the big-name parks, but they’re easier on the wallet, far less crowded, and packed with character.
Here’s a list of budget-friendly destinations around the U.S. that offer fantastic outdoor experiences—without the big price tags.
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1. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado:
Towering dunes (up to 750 feet high) meet a backdrop of alpine peaks. Who doesn’t like them? It’s a great place to hike and camp. To me, this landscape feels like it’s from another world. A desert at the foot of the Rockies. I have been to similar places, and it always surprised me to see the desert under the rocks.
Budget Notes:
- Entry: $25 per vehicle
- Camping: $20 per night
- Dune access is free, and the stargazing is phenomenal.
Best Time: Spring or fall for cooler weather and smaller crowds.
2. Marfa, Texas:
A tiny desert town with a big personality. Sometimes I think it’s an art installation. With desert sunsets, it looks amazing and peaceful to see. Some people might think that Marfa doesn’t make sense on paper, due to it being a high-desert town with fewer than 2,000 people and an international art scene. But it works. It’s not about big hikes—it’s about space, silence, and strange beauty.
Budget Notes:
- Affordable motels and Airbnbs
- Plenty of free events and galleries
- Friendly local vibe with a strong creative community
Best Time: Spring or fall—nice temps and local festivals.
3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
This is just a couple of hours from D.C., so you can easily go over the weekend as well. Mountain views, waterfalls, and an easy connection to the Appalachian Trail. I love the Skyline Drive, which looks stunning due to the forests. You’ll find waterfalls, Appalachian Trail sections, and quiet hollows that feel wonderfully untouched.
Budget Notes:
- Entry: $30 per car
- Campsites from $15
- Hike the AT section for free and explore small towns nearby
Best Time: Spring for wildflowers or autumn for leaf-peeping.
4. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Why it’s a gem: Sea caves, quiet beaches, and 21 forested islands on Lake Superior. Great for those looking for a coastal feel without the crowds. This corner of Lake Superior doesn’t feel like the Midwest—it feels like a northern coastline. The fewer crowds make the solitude even better, whether you’re hiking, kayaking, or just sitting by the shore.
Budget Notes:
- Camping: $15 per night
- Kayak rentals and budget ferries available
- Scenic hikes and shoreline exploring cost nothing
Best Time: Summer into early fall—ideal for water activities.
5. Ouachita Mountains, Arkansas/Oklahoma
Rolling hills, remote trails, and peaceful lakes. A great alternative to crowded national parks, especially for solitude seekers like me. It’s a place to escape the noise, breathe deep, and maybe not see another soul for hours. But if you like to go to crowded places and feel comfortable in the crowd, then this might not be an option for you.
Budget Notes:
- Free or low-cost campsites
- Hiking is free and plentiful
- Cabins and basic Airbnbs can be very affordable
Best Time: Spring and autumn for mild, comfortable hiking.
6. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
If Yellowstone and the Sierra Nevada had a baby, it might look something like Lassen. I am not kidding. Think steaming fumaroles, icy lakes, and fewer people. It’s a geologist’s dream and a hiker’s playground. You can summit a volcano in the morning and soak by a lake in the afternoon—without fighting for parking spots.
Budget Notes:
- Entry: $30 per vehicle
- Campsites around $22
- Excellent free trails and geothermal features
Best Time: Summer for hiking and swimming; winter for snowshoeing.
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7. The Catskills, New York
Just a few hours from NYC, but the Catskills feel worlds away. You will find misty forests and hidden swimming holes. Plus, towns like Phoenicia and Woodstock offer great food, cozy stays, and that low-key mountain town charm.
Budget Notes:
- Camping: $20 or less
- Many trails and swimming holes are free
- Affordable dining and lodging in nearby towns
Best Time: Autumn for the colors, summer for cool mountain air.
8. The Black Hills, South Dakota
Sure, people know Mount Rushmore—but fewer explore the rest: rugged peaks and hidden caves. If you go there, hike through Custer State Park and explore Wind Cave’s vast chambers. You will find it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Budget Notes:
- Low-cost camping (~$15–$20/night)
- Free hiking and scenic drives
- Entry fees are reasonable or non-existent
Best Time: Spring or fall—great weather and fewer visitors.
9. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Remote and wild, Glacier Bay feels untouched. Glaciers, bears, and whales—without the Denali price tag. While cruise ships pass through, the best way to experience it is slower: on foot, by kayak. It’s wild, and often, it’s yours alone.
Budget Notes:
- Campsites: $15
- Budget ferries instead of pricey cruises
- Hiking and wildlife watching are completely free
Best Time: Summer for clearer skies and better glacier viewing.
10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC
Misty ridges, diverse wildlife, and countless trails. Parts of the park still feel wild and untouched—especially off the beaten path. There’s plenty to explore, from waterfalls and fireflies to ridge hikes and historic cabins.
Budget Notes:
- Entry is free!
- Plenty of low-cost camping options
- Some of the best hiking in the eastern U.S. for no cost
Best Time: Spring for blooms or autumn for cool hikes and color.
Budget-Friendly Backpacking Gear That Gets the Job Done
One of the biggest upfront costs for any backpacking trip is gear—but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Over the years, I’ve learned that smart choices and a bit of patience go a long way when it comes to building a reliable kit on a tight budget.
You don’t need the fanciest ultralight pack or a four-season tent made from space-age materials. What matters most is gear that’s dependable, fits you well, and suits your style of hiking. Here are a few practical tips I’ve picked up from personal experience and swapping stories on the trail:
- Start with the essentials: Focus on the “big three” (backpack, shelter, and sleeping bag) first. These are the most important for safety and comfort.
- Buy used or discounted gear: Check REI Garage Sales, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local gear swaps. You’d be surprised how often people sell lightly used, high-quality gear for half the price.
- Rent for short trips or growing kids: If your kids are still growing or you’re just testing the waters, renting from local outfitters or programs like REI Co-op can save you serious cash.
- Multi-use items save space and money: A buff can double as a beanie, towel, or sun protection. A pot lid can serve as your plate. Creativity counts in the backcountry.
- Skip brand hype—read real reviews: Look for honest reviews from folks who’ve actually taken the gear into the bush, not just showroom testers.
These are my go-to places to buy budget-friendly backpacking sleeping bags, hiking boots, tents, and even quality backpacks. Whether you’re planning a summer trip or something in the shoulder season, that list covers solid picks that won’t empty your wallet.
Final Thoughts:
Backpacking on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on experience. With a bit of planning and a willingness to explore beyond the usual tourist hubs, there’s a whole world of affordable adventure across the U.S. These hidden gems prove that the best things—like quiet trails, starlit skies, and a thermos of coffee at sunrise—don’t have to cost much at all.