7 Haunted Places You Can Camp or Backpack To for a Spooky Outdoor Adventure
There’s something about the outdoors after dark that makes even the most ordinary sounds feel mysterious. A branch snaps somewhere beyond your tent. The wind whispers through the trees. Something rustles in the bushes, and suddenly you’re very glad you packed a headlamp.
Now imagine setting up camp near an abandoned mining town, hiking through a forest filled with ghost stories, or spending the night near a historic battlefield rumored to have lingering spirits.
For outdoor adventurers who love a little mystery, some of America's most fascinating camping and backpacking destinations come with stories that are just as memorable as the scenery. From remote mountain campgrounds to historic ghost towns, these destinations offer a chance to explore the outdoors, discover local folklore, and maybe even get a few goosebumps along the way.
Whether you believe in ghosts or simply love a good Halloween adventure, here are seven spooky places to add to your camping and backpacking bucket list.
1. Holcomb Valley, California: Camp Near an Old Gold Rush Town
Best for: History lovers, mountain campers, and adventurous weekend explorers.
California's gold rush history wasn't limited to the famous streets of San Francisco. In the mountains near Big Bear Lake, Holcomb Valley became a bustling gold-mining district during the 1860s. Prospectors flocked to the area hoping to strike it rich, creating a rugged settlement where life could be rough and violence was part of the region's history.
Today, the surrounding forest has reclaimed much of that former mining landscape. Old mining sites, historic remnants, and local legends give the area an eerie atmosphere, particularly when the afternoon light disappears behind the pines.
Folklore surrounding the area's mining past includes stories of ghostly miners and mysterious nighttime encounters. One frequently mentioned local legend involves the Hangman's Tree, associated with the rough justice of the Old West.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the appeal goes beyond the ghost stories. The Holcomb Valley area offers opportunities to explore historic sites, hike forest roads, and experience the rugged beauty of Southern California's mountains.
Camping tip: Look into established camping options around Big Bear and the San Bernardino National Forest, and confirm current access conditions before heading out. Some historic sites may require additional travel on unpaved roads.
Near Zero adventure idea: Pack a lightweight backpack, headlamp, and warm sleeping system for a fall camping trip where gold rush history provides the evening's entertainment.
2. Dolly Copp Campground, New Hampshire: Ghost Stories in the White Mountains
Best for: Fall foliage, forest camping, and classic New England ghost stories.
New Hampshire's White Mountains are famous for their rugged peaks, scenic hiking trails, and brilliant autumn foliage. But some campers visit Dolly Copp Campground for another reason: its spooky local reputation.
Named after Dolly Copp, who lived in the area during the 1800s with her husband, the campground has become associated with stories of unexplained sounds, mysterious whispers, and ghostly encounters. Some versions of the folklore even suggest that Dolly herself never entirely left the area.
Are the stories true? That's up to you to decide. Either way, a forest campground surrounded by mountains and towering trees offers plenty of atmosphere for a Halloween weekend.
During the day, explore the White Mountains' hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and winding forest roads. After sunset, settle in for hot chocolate and a round of ghost stories.
Camping tip: Check seasonal campground availability and weather conditions before traveling. Mountain temperatures can drop quickly in autumn, so bring appropriate layers and a sleeping bag rated for the expected overnight low.
Near Zero adventure idea: Make it a fall backpacking weekend with lightweight camping gear, a warm sleeping bag, and a reliable headlamp for navigating around camp after dark.
3. Big Moose Lake, New York: A Haunting Story in the Adirondacks
Best for: Lakeside camping, forest hikes, and travelers interested in true crime history.
At first glance, Big Moose Lake looks like the perfect place to escape the noise of everyday life. Surrounded by forests and the peaceful landscapes of New York's Adirondacks, it offers the kind of scenery that makes you want to put your phone away and spend the day outside.
But the lake also has a tragic history.
In 1906, Grace Brown was murdered by Chester Gillette while the two were boating on the lake. The case became nationally known and inspired Theodore Dreiser's novel An American Tragedy, later adapted into the film A Place in the Sun.
Over time, stories emerged connecting Brown's memory with ghostly sightings and mysterious encounters around the water. These accounts are folklore rather than verified paranormal evidence, but they have become part of the area's dark reputation.
Today, the Adirondacks remain a fantastic destination for hiking, paddling, wildlife watching, and camping. Visitors can enjoy the lake's natural beauty while learning about the history that made it famous.
Camping tip: Research established campgrounds in the surrounding Adirondack region before your trip. Some wilderness areas require permits or have specific rules about where overnight camping is allowed.
Near Zero adventure idea: Plan a lakeside camping trip with a lightweight tent, compact sleeping pad, and simple camp meals. Spend the day exploring and save the ghost stories for when the stars come out.
4. Holy Ghost Campground, New Mexico: A Spooky Escape in the Mountains
Best for: Mountain camping, secluded scenery, and supernatural folklore.
With a name like Holy Ghost Campground, this New Mexico destination practically writes its own Halloween story.
Located in the Santa Fe National Forest near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Holy Ghost Campground offers a peaceful forest setting with mountain scenery, tall pines, and the sounds of nearby water.
Local legends have connected the campground with unexplained occurrences and ghost stories, including tales involving a priest said to have died in the region centuries ago. As with many haunted campground legends, the details vary, and the supernatural claims remain unverified.
The real-world setting, however, is reason enough to visit. The surrounding mountains offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and escaping into nature.
The campground's remote atmosphere also makes it an appealing destination for campers looking to unplug for a weekend. When darkness settles over the forest, even a quiet creek can sound a little mysterious.
Camping tip: Check current Forest Service information for seasonal closures, road conditions, fire restrictions, and campground availability before traveling.
Near Zero adventure idea: Keep your pack simple with lightweight hiking essentials, a dependable headlamp, and weather-appropriate layers. A well-planned camping trip is much more enjoyable when you're not carrying unnecessary weight.
5. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania: Camp Near a Battlefield Filled With History
Best for: History buffs, educational family trips, and atmospheric fall camping.
Gettysburg is one of America's most historically significant destinations. The three-day Civil War battle fought here in July 1863 resulted in enormous casualties and became a turning point in the war.
More than 160 years later, the battlefield attracts visitors interested in military history, preservation, and the stories of the people who lived through the conflict.
Gettysburg is also famous for ghost stories. Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported seeing shadowy soldiers, hearing unexplained sounds, and experiencing strange occurrences around the battlefield and nearby historic sites. These stories are part of local folklore, not established evidence of paranormal activity.
For hikers and campers, the area offers a unique combination of history and outdoor recreation. Explore battlefield roads, visit monuments, walk designated trails, and learn how the landscape shaped one of the most consequential events in American history.
Camping tip: Look for established campgrounds in the surrounding area. Remember that Gettysburg National Military Park is a protected historic site, not a place for unauthorized overnight camping. Follow all park rules and respect the battlefield.
Near Zero adventure idea: Make this a history-meets-outdoors road trip. Pack comfortable hiking gear, plenty of water, and a lightweight daypack for exploring the battlefield during the day before returning to your campsite.
6. Malakoff Diggins, California: Explore a Ghost Town in the Forest
Best for: Gold rush history, unusual hiking destinations, and photographers.
If wandering through an abandoned mining town sounds more appealing than visiting a traditional haunted house, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park deserves a spot on your list.
Located in Northern California, the park preserves a dramatic landscape shaped by the state's gold-mining boom. The nearby historic town of North Bloomfield offers a glimpse into the lives of people who settled in the region during the mining era.
Old buildings, quiet streets, and remnants of a once-busy community create a setting that feels worlds away from modern life. Local ghost stories add another layer of mystery, with tales of unusual sightings around historic structures and the old cemetery.
But there's plenty to explore even if you don't encounter anything supernatural. The park offers historic interpretation, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities to learn about the environmental impact of hydraulic mining.
Camping tip: Check the California State Parks website for current campground status, road access, and any restrictions. Conditions and available facilities can change seasonally.
Near Zero adventure idea: Bring a camera, hiking shoes, and a compact backpacking setup for a weekend spent exploring California's mining history and forest landscapes.
7. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California: Search for Mysterious Desert Lights
Best for: Desert camping, stargazing, and adventurous backpackers.
Not every spooky destination needs towering trees and dark forests. Sometimes, an enormous desert landscape beneath a sky full of stars is even more unsettling.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, located in Southern California, is known for its dramatic badlands, rugged mountains, desert washes, and remote backcountry. The region has also inspired stories of mysterious lights and unexplained phenomena.
Some accounts describe strange glowing lights across the desert, while others point to the area's unusual terrain and atmospheric conditions as possible explanations. Whatever the cause, the stories have helped make the region an intriguing destination for curious travelers.
The park's natural beauty is its biggest draw. Visitors can explore hiking trails, photograph desert landscapes, watch wildlife, and enjoy exceptional stargazing far from city lights.
Desert backpacking does require careful preparation, however. Water, sun protection, navigation, and awareness of changing weather conditions are essential.
Camping tip: Visit during cooler months, check current park advisories, and verify where camping is permitted. Backcountry camping rules and access restrictions may apply.
Near Zero adventure idea: Choose a lightweight backpacking setup that leaves room for plenty of water, navigation equipment, and other desert essentials. Pack light where you can, but never compromise on the supplies you need to stay safe.
How to Plan Your Own Haunted Camping Adventure
You don't need to be a paranormal investigator to enjoy a spooky camping trip. The best haunted outdoor destinations combine fascinating stories with beautiful landscapes, historic landmarks, and opportunities to explore somewhere new.
Before heading out, keep these tips in mind:
- Research the location. Learn the history behind the ghost stories, and distinguish local legends from documented historical events.
- Check campground availability. Some destinations have seasonal closures, limited facilities, or permit requirements.
- Pack for the weather. Fall nights can get cold, especially in the mountains. Choose a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, and clothing suitable for expected conditions.
- Bring reliable lighting. A headlamp makes it easier to move around camp and find essentials after dark.
- Carry the right supplies. Water, food, navigation tools, first aid, and emergency equipment are necessities, even on short trips.
- Respect historic and protected places. Never trespass, disturb graves, remove artifacts, or wander into closed areas in search of a ghost.
- Leave no trace. Pack out your trash, follow fire restrictions, and leave the campsite as you found it.
A little preparation helps make your Halloween camping trip memorable for all the right reasons.
Make Your Next Outdoor Adventure a Little Spookier With Near Zero
One of the best things about camping and backpacking is that you don't need a complicated setup to have an unforgettable experience. With the right lightweight camping gear and a little planning, you can spend less time worrying about what to pack and more time enjoying the adventure.
Near Zero makes outdoor exploration more approachable with lightweight, easy-to-use gear designed for beginners and experienced adventurers alike. From backpacks and sleeping bags to tents and essential camping accessories, having the right equipment can help you feel more prepared for your next trip.
Planning your first overnight adventure? Consider a ready-to-go gear bundle to simplify the process of gathering your backpacking essentials.
Whether you're exploring a historic ghost town, hiking a mountain trail, or camping beneath the stars in the desert, you can create your own outdoor story this fall.
Just remember: if you hear something strange outside your tent, check your surroundings safely before deciding it's a ghost.
And if you still aren't convinced? That's what the campfire stories are for.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Explore lightweight camping and backpacking gear at Near Zero and get ready to pack less, adventure more.