In today’s non-stop, helter-skelter world, it can be difficult to catch a break from the stress to quiet the mind. However, the northeast of the United States offers some great wilderness camping areas where you can escape the rat race and get a little R&R. Following are several of the top wilderness campsites located in the northeast US.

Lake Parlin Lodge – Maine

An unforgettable wilderness vacation spot awaits you at Lake Parlin Lodge located in the center of the gorgeous western Maine Mountains. The Lodge is situated overlooking tranquil Lake Parlin and contains guest rooms along with a wonderful restaurant. For a bit more seclusion, you might also choose to stay in one of their newly constructed cabins for rent. Visitors staying at Lake Parlin Lodge or in its cabins can enjoy the early morning Loon calls and perhaps catch a glimpse of a moose milling about the forested area. The woodland surrounding Lake Parlin consists of hundreds of miles of scenic trails that can be enjoyed on summer hikes or winter treks. This area also sits in the midst of some of the best snowmobiling country in New England with Interconnected Trail System 87 easily accessible from the Lodge’s direct location on ITS 89.

Website: http://lakeparlinlodge.com/.

George Washington Management Areas – Rhode Island

Here is another wilderness camping area that is best suited for those wanting to rough it a bit more than the average Joe. The park consists of 4,000 acres of prime forests, lakes, streams and fields. Those desiring more conveniences such as bathrooms can hook up at one of the 45 campsites or 45 sites designed for RVs only. Shelters also exist throughout the park for groups of up to 20 to camp (reservations required). Park activities include miles of scenic hiking trails, fishing, biking, kayaking and canoeing. The park is open from April through October.

Website: http://www.riparks.com/Locations/LocationGeorgeWashington.html.

Woodford State Park – Vermont

This park is a favorite for hikers due to its accessibility to both the Green Mountain National Forest and George Aiken Wilderness Area. The 103 multipurpose site campground located in Woodford State Park has a hiking trail 2.7 miles in length that exits the camp and encompasses Adams Reservoir which hosts a variety of fun water sports such as boating, fishing and swimming.

Website: http://www.vtstateparks.com/htm/woodford.htm.

Pine Acres Family Resort – Massachusetts

When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life with the entire family, the Pine Acres Family Resort is a top choice. This fun family-owned resort is located in Oakham in central Massachusetts and has everything desirable for a family retreat. Not only are there plenty of campsites containing fire rings and picnic tables, but the property also hosts showers and restrooms, a miniature golf course, tennis court, volleyball area, pool, spa, dog park and more. Nearby Lake Dean also hosts some excellent boating and fishing opportunities and long, scenic hikes can be taken on its numerous surrounding trails. Winter getaways are also enjoyable with plenty of space to snow-shoe and cross-country ski. Website: http://pineacresresort.com/.

Darren Davis is a trucking instructor and lover of camping from Tucson, Arizona.