If you love the outdoors and flying drones, why not combine both? Drone camping is the perfect way to explore nature, relax, and capture stunning aerial shots that you just can’t get in the city. Whether you’re into mountains, forests, lakes, or deserts, the U.S. has endless spots where you can camp under the stars—and fly above them, too.

Here’s your guide to the best drone-friendly camping spots in the U.S., along with tips to fly safely, legally, and creatively.

What Is Drone Camping?

Drone camping means taking your drone along on a camping trip so you can explore and film nature from a bird’s-eye view. You can shoot:

• Sunrise over a mountain ridge
• Misty lakes in the morning
• Wildlife moving across open land
• Forests, waterfalls, and deserts
• Your own campsite from above!

It’s a mix of adventure, photography, and flying fun. But to do it right, you need to know where to go—and the rules that come with it.

Top Drone Camping Spots in the U.S.

Here are some of the most beautiful and drone-friendly places to camp and fly:

1. Great Sand Dunes National Preserve, Colorado

Massive dunes, mountain backdrops, and few flight restrictions make this a dream for drone campers. Fly during sunrise for golden light on the dunes.

2. Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas

Unlike national parks, this state park allows drones. It has wide open skies, desert cliffs, and river canyons—perfect for cinematic footage.

3. Alabama Hills, California

A favorite of photographers and filmmakers, this spot offers rugged rock formations and snow-capped Sierra views. It’s BLM land, so drone flying is allowed.

4. Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah

BLM-managed with no drone bans, this area offers colorful cliffs, slot canyons, and some of the best starry night drone photography.

5. Ocala National Forest, Florida

Camp near clear springs and fly above green forests, winding rivers, and wide lakes. It’s a drone pilot’s tropical playground.

6. White Mountains, New Hampshire

In fall, capture breathtaking foliage from above. Many campgrounds in the region are drone-friendly with open flight zones.

Note: National parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone have drone bans. Always check with the FAA B4UFLY app and the campground’s drone policy before flying.

Gear Tips for Drone Camping

Camping with a drone means packing smart. Here’s what to bring:

• Drone and remote controller (obviously!)
• Extra batteries – power outlets may be miles away
• Car charger or solar power bank
• ND filters – for perfect shots in bright daylight
• Landing pad – protects your drone from dirt and gravel
• Hard case – keep your drone safe during the hike

Before every flight, check wind speed and GPS signal. And always carry a backup SD card!

Flying Legally and Safely While Camping

To stay out of trouble, always follow these tips:

• Check airspace with the FAA’s B4UFLY or Aloft app
• Avoid wildlife – never disturb animals while flying
• Fly below 400 feet and stay in line of sight
• Don’t fly over campsites or people without permission
• Respect privacy – just because you’re in nature doesn’t mean you’re alone

If you’re planning to shoot videos or photos for commercial use (even social media ads), make sure you have your FAA Part 107 license.

At Drone Universities, you can get certified and trained to fly professionally—even in remote environments like these.

Creative Drone Shot Ideas for Camping Trips

Want to make your camping drone footage stand out? Try these:

• Orbit your campsite during golden hour
• Fly through trees (slowly and safely!)
• Track yourself hiking using ActiveTrack or waypoints
• Reveal a mountain view with a backward pull-away shot
• Capture campfire scenes with a high-down night shot

Drone Universities’ photography and cinematography courses can teach you how to plan and execute these shots like a pro.

Whether you’re capturing a sunrise over a canyon or filming the stars above your tent, drone camping is a one-of-a-kind experience. With the right gear, locations, and FAA training, you can create nature videos that amaze and inspire.

Ready to start your drone career? Register now with Drone Universities