Ready to hit America’s Heartland where you can find cowboys, country music, rolling hills, lakes and a stress-free lifestyle? Great news, many campgrounds and RV parks in the Midwest are now open.
Good Sam actively updates our website with the latest information regarding private campground openings. Visit our Guide to COVID-19 RV Park and Campground Openings page for a list of Good Sam Parks that are now open and accepting overnight guests. Also as you search our campgrounds and click on a park’s listing, look for the “COVID-19 Campground Visitor Update” box as it displays the opening date. Keep in mind, some events and amenities may not be available.
Illinois: The Land of Lincoln is home to the world’s only river that flows backward. The St. Lawrence River Divide is the boundary between two different Atlantic watersheds. And nearly 80% of the state’s land area is farmland. Historic Route 66, established in 1926, starts in Chicago. Reach out directly to the park for possible restrictions, travel advisories and information about how to camp safely. Check the individual state for the latest information on COVID-19 related announcements.
Historical Route 66 sign in Illinois. Photo Credit: Getty Images, Geoff Eccles
Indiana: Known for “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing,” the Indianapolis 500 takes place in August. But perhaps lesser known is the Indiana Dunes region on the shore of Lake Michigan provides habitats for many unusual plants, including prickly pear cactus, bearberry and more than 20 varieties of orchids. The Hoosier State is currently in stage five as of July 4, 2020. However, it’s important to check updates from the state for the latest restrictions and possible self-quarantine measures from other states. Please use personal discretion and follow the Indiana State Department of Health for COVID-19 related updates.
Soybeans at sunset. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Owen Rupp
Iowa: Iowa is the stuff road trips are made of; the World’s Largest Truckstop, the World’s Shortest and Steepest Railway are all here. Or, visit the Hawkeye State for its awesome supply of pork and corn and for its navigable rivers, the Missouri and Mississippi. As of the date of this article, no changes are planned to Iowa’s fishing and hunting regulations due to COVID-10. However, check the state website and sites of the destinations you’re interested in visiting for their most up-to-date information.
Sunset over the Mississippi River. Photo Credit: Getty Images, dangarneau
Kansas: You may think of amber waves of grain and the beauty of the landscape when Midway, U.S.A. comes to mind. Whether you’re hiking the Flint Hills or floating at Lake Wilson, you’ll find there’s no place like the Sunflower State. As always, wherever you travel, check with the state agency and campground for the latest information.
Grinter Sunflower Farms Lawrence. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Laura Gilchrist
Michigan: Ready to camp in the state known for its great lakes and having the most shoreline of any other state in the country? From scenic routes on the open road to rugged trails, they all lead to simple pleasures. Check with the state and campground for the latest news and possible COVID-19 related restrictions.
Minnesota: With 11,842 lakes, the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” is actually being a little humble. This is the place to paddle a canoe, rent a houseboat or fish with your family. Popular species include walleye, bass, crappie, muskie and trout. If fishing isn’t your game, Minnesota is home to close to 500 courses catering to golfers of all abilities. Check the state for updates and information on how to travel safely.
Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Drew Dau
Missouri: Whether its jazz, blues or the well-known Kansas City-style barbecue, Missouri has plenty to offer (and show you!). And the Show-Me State is home to several famous Missourian writers including T.S. Eliot, Maya Angelou, Mark Twain and Tennessee Williams. Take one of their classics on a number of their award-winning trails. Make sure to check with the state and campground directly to find out how to properly and safely travel to and from your home.
Nebraska: Did you know that livestock tanks float? Well, Nebraskans invent their own fun, so stock a cooler and climb into a livestock watering tank for a scenic, gentle ride down one of their rivers. If that doesn’t float your “boat,” explore the badlands terrain of Toadstool Geologic Park in Crawford and discover other worldly rock formations. Check with Nebraska’s government website for up-to-date information on Coronavirus related restrictions.
Heartland of America Park, 31-acre park situated between Interstate 80 and the Missouri River. Photo Credit: Getty Images, Rohan Bakshi
North Dakota: The Peace Garden State is – not surprisingly – home to the International Peace Garden, a beautiful symbol of peace and friendship straddling the U.S. and Canadian border of North Dakota and Manitoba. Good news for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s home to more wildlife refuges than any other state. And Lake Sakakawea has more shoreline than the California Pacific Coast! Reach out directly to the park for possible restrictions and check the individual state for the latest information on COVID-19 related announcements.
Ohio: Seven presidents were born in the Buckeye State, making the it known as the “Mother of Modern Presidents.” If you find yourself heading to central Ohio, visit RIDEhome in Worthington for their Picnic Date Package. Browse their selection of mountain and road bikes, while enjoying a fresh brewed cup of coffee at Crimson Cup Company. Once the bikes are loaded with picnic treats, pedal around Old Worthington or ride to Olentangy Trail. Or head out into Lake Erie’s prime fishing territory to catch some walleye, perch or smallmouth bass. Make sure to check with the state and campground directly to find out how to properly and safely travel to and from your home.
South Dakota: The Mount Rushmore State has also been referred to as “the land of infinite variety.” From fertile prairies, rolling hills and a large number of artesian wells to Badlands National Park, Deadwood and Spearfish Canyon, there’s no limit to outdoor adventure. Reach out directly to the park for possible restrictions, travel advisories and check the individual state for the latest information on COVID-19 related announcements.
Windy afternoon in South Dakota. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Michelen Studios
Wisconsin: Did you know the state is home to a “Malibu of the Midwest”? Freshwater surfers know Sheboygan as a freshwater haven and outdoor lover’s playground. Peak surf season takes place between September and March (yes, the cold months!). If you’d rather stay on land, check out the backwoods of Wisconsin from the back of an ATV. As always, check the state for updates and information on how to travel safely.