As the chill of autumn settles in and Halloween approaches, there’s no better way to embrace the spooky season than by camping at some of America's most haunted campgrounds.

These eerie sites, rich with ghost stories and unsettling histories, offer a thrilling adventure for those who seek more than just the peace and serenity of the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned ghost hunter or simply looking to add a spine-tingling twist to your camping experience, these haunted campgrounds promise unforgettable nights filled with ghostly whispers, mysterious sounds, and perhaps even a spectral sighting.

1. Braley Pond, Virginia

Nestled in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Braley Pond is infamous for its haunting atmosphere. The site gained its spooky reputation after a tragic murder in 2003. Campers and paranormal investigators have reported eerie experiences, including ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and a feeling of being watched. If you dare to venture here, be prepared for a night of ghostly encounters amidst the towering trees and reflective waters.

Tips for Campers:

• Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enhance the eerie ambiance.
• Bring a flashlight and extra batteries; the darkness here can be quite intense.
• Use the Stacked.camp map to find local firewood sources to keep your campfire burning bright, warding off any lurking spirits.

2. Camp Comfort County Park, California

Despite its name, Camp Comfort in Ojai, California, is said to be anything but comforting after dark. The campground, which dates back to the late 1800s, is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl. Visitors have reported seeing her apparition near the creek and hearing her laughter echoing through the trees.

Tips for Campers:

• Set up camp near the creek for a chance to experience the paranormal activity firsthand.
• Respect the spirits by leaving the area as you found it, free of litter and disturbances.
• Stay informed about local fire bans using Stacked.camp’s fire resources to ensure your safety.

3. Hickory Hill Campground, Pennsylvania

Located in the scenic Pocono Mountains, Hickory Hill Campground is steeped in ghostly legends. The most famous tale is that of a young bride who perished in a car accident on her wedding night. Her spirit is said to wander the campground, searching for her lost groom. Campers have reported cold spots, mysterious lights, and the sound of a woman weeping.

Tips for Campers:

• Bring along some ghost-hunting equipment like EMF meters or spirit boxes for a thrilling investigation.
• Keep a journal to document any strange occurrences you might experience.
• Use Stacked.camp to find nearby firewood and keep your campfire going, creating a cozy atmosphere amid the chills.

4. Holy Ghost Campground, New Mexico

Tucked away in the Santa Fe National Forest, Holy Ghost Campground has an intriguing name and an even more intriguing past. The area was once inhabited by Spanish settlers, and legend has it that the ghost of a priest haunts the campground. Visitors have reported hearing chanting, seeing shadowy figures, and feeling an inexplicable presence.

Tips for Campers:

• Explore the nearby ruins of the old Spanish mission for a deeper dive into the area's history.
• Make sure your camera is ready to capture any unexpected apparitions.
• Check Stacked.camp for local fire restrictions to ensure your campfire is safe and legal.

5. Malabar Farm State Park, Ohio

Malabar Farm State Park is not only a beautiful place to camp but also a hotspot for paranormal activity. The most famous ghost here is that of Ceely Rose, a young girl who poisoned her family in the 19th century. Her spirit is said to haunt the grounds, especially around the old farmhouse. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure, hearing disembodied voices, and experiencing sudden drops in temperature.

Tips for Campers:

• Take a guided ghost tour of the farm to learn more about Ceely Rose’s tragic story.
• Camp near the farmhouse for the best chance of encountering paranormal activity.
• Use Stacked.camp to find local firewood, keeping your campfire burning as you share ghost stories.

6. Fort Worden State Park, Washington

Fort Worden State Park, a former military base, is known for its haunted history. The park's bunkers and old buildings are rumored to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who once served there. Campers have reported hearing footsteps, seeing apparitions, and feeling an overwhelming sense of sadness in certain areas.

Tips for Campers:

• Explore the park’s historical buildings during the day and return at night for a ghost hunt.
• Keep your campsite well-lit to fend off any lingering spirits.
• Stay updated on fire bans and find local firewood with Stacked.camp’s fire resources.

7. Calico Ghost Town, California

Calico Ghost Town offers a unique camping experience in a real Old West ghost town. Once a booming mining town, Calico is now a popular tourist destination with a spooky twist. Ghosts of former miners are said to haunt the area, and visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures, hearing unexplained noises, and experiencing strange phenomena.

Tips for Campers:

• Participate in a ghost tour to learn about the town’s haunted history.
• Camp in the designated areas to stay safe and respect the historical site.
• Use Stacked.camp to locate nearby firewood and keep your campfire going as you delve into the town’s eerie past.

8. Campsites in Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg is one of the most haunted places in America, and camping in the area offers a unique opportunity to experience its ghostly past. The site of the famous Civil War battle, Gettysburg is teeming with spirits of soldiers who lost their lives. Campers have reported seeing ghostly apparitions, hearing battle sounds, and feeling a sense of dread.

Tips for Campers:

• Take a nighttime ghost tour of the battlefield for a truly immersive experience.
• Respect the history and solemnity of the site by camping only in designated areas.
• Check Stacked.camp for local firewood options to keep your campfire burning throughout the night.

9. Jenny Jump State Forest, New Jersey

Jenny Jump State Forest is named after a local legend of a girl named Jenny who leapt to her death to escape a Native American raiding party. Her ghost is said to haunt the forest, and campers have reported seeing her apparition, hearing her screams, and feeling an eerie presence.

Tips for Campers:

• Visit Ghost Lake within the forest for an extra eerie experience.
• Share the legend of Jenny Jump around the campfire to set the mood.
• Use Stacked.camp to find local firewood and ensure your campfire is compliant with any fire bans.

10. Chisos Basin Campground, Texas

Located in Big Bend National Park, Chisos Basin Campground is known for its beautiful scenery and paranormal activity. The ghost of a Native American warrior is said to haunt the area, and visitors have reported seeing his apparition, hearing drumming, and experiencing strange lights.

Tips for Campers:

• Explore the surrounding trails during the day and keep an eye out for paranormal activity at night.
• Respect the natural beauty of the park by following Leave No Trace principles.
• Stay informed about local fire bans and find firewood with Stacked.camp’s resources.

Conclusion

Camping at one of these haunted campgrounds offers an unforgettable experience for those who enjoy the thrill of the unknown. Whether you’re drawn by the ghost stories or the eerie ambiance, these sites provide the perfect backdrop for a spooky adventure. Remember to use Stacked.camp to find local firewood and stay updated on fire restrictions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable camping experience. Happy haunting!