Pickleball + Campgrounds: The Budget-Friendly Vacation That Serves It All

Where Court Time Meets Campfires, Without Breaking the Bank

If your idea of the perfect vacation includes smacking a few pickleballs and sitting by a campfire under the stars, you’re in luck. A growing number of campgrounds across the U.S.—especially near national parks—are adding pickleball courts to their amenities. That means you can wake up to mountain views, hike to a waterfall, and still make your 4 PM dinks-and-drinks match before dinner. All without spending a fortune.

Here’s how to plan the ultimate pickleball camping getaway—complete with epic scenery, community fun, and just enough competition to keep your backhand sharp.

Why Pickleball + Camping Works

For one, it’s affordable. Campsites cost a fraction of hotels or resorts, and many now include access to courts, pools, and even scheduled activities. You’ll also meet people who, like you, value the combo of fresh air and friendly competition. And after your match, you’ll be able to swap stories of great gets, ATPs, and that point where Stu whiffed the overhead completely, all around the campfire with the aroma of toasting marshmallows. 

Great Campgrounds with Pickleball Near National Parks

1. Zion White Bison Glamping & RV Resort (Utah – near Zion National Park)
Nestled along the Virgin River just outside Zion, this upscale glamping and RV resort offers stunning scenery, luxury touches (think private hot tubs and fire pits), and multiple dedicated pickleball courts. You can hike the Narrows in the morning and join open play by sunset—all while surrounded by bison, red cliffs, and stargazing skies. It’s one of the rare places where rustic adventure meets resort-level comfort without losing the camping vibe.

2. Rancho Sedona RV Park (Arizona – near Sedona Red Rocks & Grand Canyon)
Located beneath sycamore trees in stunning Sedona, this peaceful campground offers access to nearby public pickleball courts, plus easy walking distance to shops, galleries, and trailheads. Sedona’s rec play scene is strong and welcoming, with multiple drop-in opportunities and a beautiful mountain backdrop. As a bonus, day trips to the Grand Canyon are well within reach.

3. The Springs at Borrego RV Resort (California – near Anza-Borrego Desert State Park)
This desert oasis has multiple pickleball courts, mineral baths, a golf course, and stargazing galore. While not technically in a national park, it offers the same kind of scenery and solitude—with the bonus of a passionate pickleball community. The vibe here is peaceful and rejuvenating, perfect for unwinding with nature by day and a few friendly matches at golden hour.

4. Lake George RV Park (New York – near Adirondack Park)
This award-winning park has six lighted pickleball courts, indoor facilities, and a full slate of planned activities—plus biking, kayaking, and easy access to the Adirondack Mountains. Think: campy summer fun with grown-up perks. The courts are well-maintained and see a mix of family play and serious rec players, especially in the summer months when the park is buzzing.

5. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge (Tennessee – near Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
Just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains, this resort-style campground blends rustic charm with a lively atmosphere and full-on pickleball fun. The courts are on-site and free for guests, and the resort itself features a lazy river, fire pits, on-site dining, and plenty of kid- and adult-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking to hike the Smokies or just sip a frozen drink between matches, this spot delivers on both adventure and comfort. Perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want nature by day and neon-lit fun by night.

Planning Tips for Your Pickleball Camping Trip

Reserve early—campgrounds with pickleball, especially near national parks, fill fast, and courts may book up. Bring your paddle, court shoes, and some quality balls—loaner gear is rare at these sites. Arrive early or play after daytime adventures for the best open play experience. And don’t forget to socialize—campers at pickleball-equipped parks often organize morning matches or evening mixers, making it easy to connect across skill levels.

Bottom Line

If you’re dreaming of sunshine, scenic hikes, and community-style play without draining your wallet, these campgrounds deliver. From Zion White Bison’s rugged luxury to Camp Margaritaville’s family-friendly courts by the Smokies, each destination is a vacation and a pickleball adventure. Pack your paddle, plot your route, and let nature—and net play—be your guide.

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