Top Ten Campgrounds in the US for Trout Fishing

For anglers who dream of pristine waters filled with rainbow, brown, and brook trout, the United States offers an incredible array of camping destinations that combine the thrill of the catch with the serenity of nature. From crystal-clear mountain streams to placid lakes nestled in forested valleys, these campgrounds provide the perfect basecamp for fishing adventures. Whether you’re a fly fishing enthusiast or prefer traditional bait casting techniques, these top ten trout fishing campgrounds offer excellent access to some of the country’s most productive waters, comfortable amenities, and breathtaking natural surroundings that make every trip memorable even when the fish aren’t biting.

Madison Campground, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Located in the heart of America’s first national park, Madison Campground offers exceptional access to the legendary Madison River, one of the most celebrated trout fisheries in North America. Anglers can target rainbow and brown trout in the Madison’s clear, rushing waters, with the opportunity to catch trophy-sized fish in a setting of unparalleled natural beauty. The campground itself sits at the confluence of the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers, which join to form the Madison, giving campers multiple fishing options within walking distance of their sites.

Beyond the fishing, campers are treated to Yellowstone’s abundant wildlife, including frequent elk and bison sightings, making this a destination that delivers the complete outdoor experience.

Hen Williams Campground, White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Nestled along the banks of the Swift River in New Hampshire’s picturesque White Mountains, Hen Williams Campground serves as an ideal base for exploring some of New England’s finest trout waters. The Swift River is known for its healthy populations of native brook trout—New Hampshire’s state fish—along with stocked rainbow and brown trout that thrive in its cool, oxygen-rich waters. The campground’s rustic charm and relatively small size (just 22 sites) create an intimate atmosphere that appeals to serious anglers seeking solitude and productive fishing.

Fall visitors are rewarded with spectacular foliage that transforms the surrounding forest into a canvas of crimson, orange, and gold, creating a backdrop for fishing that’s simply unforgettable.

Cave Run Lake Campground, Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

While Cave Run Lake is often celebrated for its muskie fishing, its lesser-known trout opportunities make this campground a hidden gem for trout enthusiasts exploring the South. The tailwaters below Cave Run Dam create ideal conditions for rainbow and brown trout, with the cold water releases from the lake’s depths sustaining these cold-water species even during Kentucky’s warm summers. The campground offers spacious sites with electric hookups, modern restrooms, and boat ramps that provide easy access to both the lake and the trout-rich waters below the dam.

The surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest adds to the appeal with miles of hiking trails that allow anglers to stretch their legs between fishing sessions.

Palisades Campground, Targhee National Forest, Idaho

Situated along the South Fork of the Snake River, Palisades Campground gives anglers front-row access to one of Idaho’s premier blue-ribbon trout streams. The South Fork is renowned for its exceptional populations of native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, along with brown and rainbow trout that often reach impressive sizes in these nutrient-rich waters. The campground’s location below Palisades Dam ensures consistent water flows and temperatures ideal for trout, while the surrounding cottonwood forest provides welcome shade during summer fishing trips.

Many sites offer direct river views, allowing anglers to scout fishing spots from their campsites and quickly respond when hatches begin and fish start rising to feed on the surface.

North Mills River Campground, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina

This gem in western North Carolina offers anglers access to some of the finest wild trout waters in the Southeast, with the North Mills River flowing directly through the campground. Designated as both Wild Trout Waters and Delayed Harvest Trout Waters (depending on the section), this river system harbors healthy populations of brook, rainbow, and brown trout in a pristine mountain setting. The campground features spacious, shaded sites that stay relatively cool even during summer, making this an ideal year-round destination for serious trout anglers.

Beyond the main river, numerous smaller tributaries accessible from the campground offer more intimate fishing experiences where native brook trout can be targeted in their natural habitat.

Greer Campground, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona

In the high country of eastern Arizona, Greer Campground stands out as a desert state trout fishing paradise that often surprises first-time visitors. Located at over 8,000 feet elevation, this campground sits along the Little Colorado River where cool temperatures support excellent populations of rainbow, brown, and Apache trout—Arizona’s state fish and a species found nowhere else in the world. The campground’s proximity to several stocked lakes, including Greer Lakes and Big Lake, provides multiple fishing options within a short drive.

The combination of mountain meadow scenery, cool summer temperatures, and diverse fishing opportunities makes this destination particularly appealing during Arizona’s hot summer months when lower elevation waters become too warm for trout.

Dolly Copp Campground, White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

As one of the largest campgrounds in the White Mountain National Forest, Dolly Copp provides anglers with comfortable accommodations while accessing the legendary Androscoggin River and its tributaries. The Androscoggin is known for its robust populations of wild and stocked brook, brown, and rainbow trout, with certain sections designated as fly-fishing only to preserve the quality of the fishery. The campground’s location near the base of Mount Washington places it in proximity to numerous small mountain streams where native brook trout can be caught amid spectacular scenery.

Fall visitors are treated to some of New England’s most vibrant foliage displays, making this a destination where the fishing is matched only by the natural beauty surrounding it.

Ohanapecosh Campground, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Nestled among ancient old-growth forests in the shadow of Mount Rainier, Ohanapecosh Campground offers access to some of Washington’s most scenic trout waters. The crystal-clear Ohanapecosh River flows through the campground, harboring native rainbow trout and the occasional bull trout in its cold, pristine waters. The surrounding national park contains numerous alpine lakes and streams where determined anglers can find solitude and exceptional fishing for wild trout species.

The campground’s well-maintained facilities, including flush toilets and picnic tables at each site, provide comfortable accommodations after long days on the water. The combination of spectacular mountain scenery, ancient forests, and productive trout waters makes this a bucket-list destination for anglers who appreciate natural beauty alongside their fishing pursuits.

Rock Creek Campground, Lolo National Forest, Montana

Montana’s reputation as a trout fishing paradise is well-represented at Rock Creek Campground, where anglers can access one of the state’s premier blue-ribbon trout streams just steps from their campsites. Rock Creek supports healthy populations of rainbow, brown, cutthroat, and bull trout, as well as the occasional brook trout, giving anglers opportunities for a Montana grand slam. The creek’s diverse character, ranging from swift riffles to deep pools, provides habitat for large trout that have made this stream famous among serious fly fishers.

The campground maintains a rustic feel with basic amenities that reflect its focus on providing access to outstanding fishing rather than resort-style comforts. Spring visitors can experience the legendary salmonfly hatch, when trout feed voraciously on these large insects, creating some of the most exciting dry fly fishing opportunities in the country.

Silver Creek Campground, Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Idaho

Located in Idaho’s scenic Silver Creek Valley, this campground provides access to one of the most technically challenging yet rewarding trout fisheries in the American West. Silver Creek is renowned for its crystal-clear spring-fed waters, substantial insect hatches, and selective trout that can grow to impressive sizes. The creek’s smooth, glassy surface and slow currents create the perfect environment for sight fishing to rising trout, a thrilling experience even for veteran anglers.

The campground offers a peaceful setting with well-spaced sites that provide a sense of privacy while maintaining proximity to the creek’s productive waters. The surrounding landscape of sagebrush hills and distant mountains creates a quintessentially western backdrop for what many consider to be the ultimate test of fly fishing skill and patience.

Upper Lehigh Campground, White Haven, Pennsylvania

For anglers in the eastern United States, Upper Lehigh Campground provides exceptional access to one of Pennsylvania’s premier wild trout fisheries. The Lehigh River, particularly in its upper reaches near the campground, supports healthy populations of wild brown and rainbow trout, as well as stocked fish that supplement the natural reproduction. The campground’s location in the Pocono Mountains region places it within easy reach of numerous smaller streams designated as Class A Wild Trout Waters by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission.

Many sites feature full hookups and the campground offers modern amenities, making this an excellent choice for families where not everyone shares the same passion for fishing. The proximity to population centers in the Northeast makes this an accessible weekend destination for urban anglers seeking quality trout waters without a cross-country journey.

Planning Your Trout Fishing Campground Experience

When planning a trip to any of these premier trout fishing campgrounds, timing can be as important as location for angling success. Generally, spring and fall offer the most consistent trout fishing, when water temperatures remain in the ideal range for active feeding. Research specific hatches and fishing regulations before your trip, as many premier trout waters have special rules designed to protect these valuable fisheries. Consider booking campground reservations well in advance, especially for summer weekends and during major hatch events when popularity peaks.

Pack for variable weather conditions, as mountain environments where trout thrive can experience dramatic temperature swings even in summer months. Finally, consider hiring a local guide for at least one day of your trip, as their knowledge can significantly shorten the learning curve on unfamiliar waters and improve your chances of connecting with trophy trout.

Conclusion

America’s diverse geography creates endless opportunities for trout fishing adventures, but these ten campgrounds stand out for their combination of quality fishing access, natural beauty, and camping amenities. From the legendary rivers of Montana and Idaho to the intimate mountain streams of the Appalachians, each destination offers its own unique character and fishing experience. Whether you’re seeking the solitude of a high mountain lake or the thrill of casting to rising trout on a famous spring creek, these campgrounds provide the perfect base for creating lasting memories and catching the trout of a lifetime.

The next time you’re planning an angling getaway, consider these destinations where the camping experience enhances the fishing, and even a day without a catch still feels like time well spent in some of America’s most beautiful natural settings.