Not everyone is thrilled about the upcoming snow season. If you're more of a sun worshipper than a skier, there are plenty of places to get outside all year for some hammock camping that doesn't involve sub-zero sleeping bags or snowshoes.
At the risk of stating the obvious, these are some of the warmest states to visit in the winter time, and the top spots to hammock camp in each. Grab your Hooded Travel Pillow, hop on a flight or hit the road and warm those toes!
1. Hawai'i
Get off the mainland for island camping in paradise. While this destination often inspires images of fruity cocktails and luxurious resorts, Hawai'i is also home to striking landscapes, challenging hikes, and a whopping eight national parks.
Hosmer Grove Campground in Haleakala National Park sits on the slope of the Haleakala volcano. Don't expect tropical temperatures at this altitude, so you may need a light blanket. But you will find an epic hike to a peak with breathtaking views of Maui.
2. Arizona
Arizona summers require air-conditioning and pools. It's hard to enjoy the outdoors when the temperature is soaring above 100 degrees. But in the winter time, Arizona is much more hospitable, making it the perfect time to find a killer hammock spot to enjoy the stunning views of red rock deserts and canyons.
Check the Grand Canyon off your bucket list at North Rim Campground. Seeing the Grand Canyon is great. But staying the night so you can watch a sunset and wake up early for a quiet moment before the crowds arrive is key to absorbing the overwhelming beauty of this national treasure.
3. California
Sunny California is always there for you. No matter what you're looking for, from snowy slopes to sunny beaches, there's a place in California that fits the bill.
Sleep in a truly unique landscape at Jumbo Rocks Campground in Joshua National Park, where large boulders create towers for climbing, exploring, or blocking your hammock from the wind. Jumbo Rocks is in the desert, so come prepared for warm days and chilly nights. BUT please do not hang your hammocks on the trees here! Unfortunately, they are not strong enough to support hammocks and many have been damaged. We want to preserve the beauty of this place so bring your own hammock stand to sleep in!
4. Florida
Chase summer to the Sunshine State for some warm weather car camping. Florida offers plenty opportunities to camp on the beach where you can swim and surf right outside of your hammock. Don't forget a parasheet beach blanket to keep the sand and water away from all your gear!
Everglades National Park in Florida is America's largest subtropical wilderness, so prepare to be overwhelmed by wild sights and sounds in this swampy region.
Flamingo Campground in Everglades National Park is surrounded by mangrove mud flats and waterways that connect to a bay where you can spot dolphins, manatees, and birds.
5. New Mexico
You might think of adobe buildings and desert when you think of New Mexico, but this state has a wide variety of landscapes and outdoor adventures. From the white sand dunes to forested mountains, New Mexico can offer desert warmth or snowy peaks in the winter months.
For a striking camping experience, check out the primitive campsites at White Sands National Monument, where you can sleep in the seemingly endless expanse of sand, beneath an awe-inspiring night sky.
Wherever you camp this winter, your Grand Trunk Hammock will be there to help you embrace your surroundings with a comfortable place to hang.
