If your camping gear always includes a camera, or if you just love to document your travels, there are plenty of state parks in the United States that offer a great chance for a wonderful photo. Of course, you’ll also want to pack sunblock, bug spray, and a sleeping bag. No matter where you go, you’ll also need shelter.

Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas

The Ozark Mountains offer some of the most beautiful drives and gorgeous scenery in the middle of the country. Pack your hiking shoes and your bathing suit for a camping trip to Devil’s Den so you can check out the many waterfalls and gorgeous forest trails.

There are multiple cabins that offer fireplaces and many tent and RV sites. There are also spots to park your horse trailer if you both need some trail time. Cyclists will enjoy the spring Ozark Mountain Bike Festival. While summers in Arkansas can be quite warm, the spring and fall are both quite beautiful and temperate. The Ozark Mountains can get chilly at night, so pack with an eye toward layering up.

Goblin Valley State Park, Utah

There are multiple Utah state park campsites that offer great views and terrific photos for your Instagram posts, but Goblin Valley is particularly known as a Dark Skies Park. This means that your view of the Milky Way will be amazing. You can also find moonlit hikes and telescope viewing for terrific memories and images to enjoy.

Goblin Valley is in the east of Utah and is just north of Hanksville. It’s a good idea to stock up well before you get to Goblin Valley. “Dark Skies” designations are generally given to areas far from the cities that tend to light up the sky and make it hard to see the stars.

Rocky Neck State Park, Connecticut

Who says you have to head west to have a great camping trip? Rocky Neck offers east coast residents many interesting hikes, a bit of rock scrambling, and time on the sand. There’s great swimming, cooling ocean breezes, and amazing topography to enjoy.

This park covers more than 700 acres, so be sure to bring your hiking sandals and your binoculars. The birds will be thrilled to be featured in your Instagram feed. Load up your coolers, your sunshade, and your camping gear for some time on Rocky Neck Beach!

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

If you’re looking for some non-summer camping photos to add to your Instagram account, check out Valley of Fire State Park. You’ll be one in a long line of visitors; there are 3000-year-old petroglyph drawings left by those who came before you.

You’ll be close to Lake Mead if you pick a campsite at Atlatl Rock Campground, which gives easy access to the Valley of Fire. When planning any trip to a state campground at this time, make sure to check in on the reservation requirements and the campground rules. The desert is a surprisingly delicate ecosystem; prepare so you don’t accidentally break any rules.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California

There’s a 340-foot tall redwood tree that deserves to have a photo taken in Jedediah Smith State Park. Bring your camera, some sunblock, and your best hiking boots for a wonderful experience in this remarkable park.

This park is just south of the Oregon border. You’ll find plenty of camping in the park, but if it’s booked you can look for a spot in the Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park or a bit further east. Be aware that there are many rivers in this region and you won’t be far from El Capitan. Whether you just need a spot for your tent or have an RV to park, you can find a location that will suit your needs.

Camping can be a way to get great photos and have a lot of fun close to your home. To avoid a long stressful drive for your vacation, consider one of the many state parks in your region. Invest in a quality shelter that suits your needs for sleeping, but consider also investing in a screen-house or a beach canopy where you can enjoy some fresh air and hang out. With the right gear, your photos will be even better.