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Las Vegas, United States
Use Las Vegas as your budget-friendly base to stock up on camping supplies and groceries at Walmart before hitting the trails. It's a great hub to rent a car if you haven't already. Skip the Strip and save your money for the real adventure ahead.
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Zion National Park, United States
Zion is a hiker's paradise with iconic trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows. Camp at South Campground or Watchman Campground inside the park for budget stays. The free park shuttle makes it easy to get around without burning gas.
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Bryce Canyon, United States
Bryce Canyon's otherworldly hoodoo formations are best explored on the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden trails. North Campground inside the park is affordable and perfectly located. Stargazing here is absolutely stunning on clear nights due to minimal light pollution.
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Capitol Reef National Park, United States
One of Utah's most underrated and uncrowded parks, Capitol Reef offers fantastic canyon hikes like Cassidy Arch and Chimney Rock. The Fruita Campground is cheap and scenic, sitting right along the Fremont River. Don't miss picking free seasonal fruit from the historic orchards inside the park.
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Moab, United States
Moab is the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, making it an essential stop. Hike the famous Delicate Arch trail at sunrise to beat the crowds and the heat. Budget campers should check out dispersed BLM camping spots just outside town which are completely free.
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Grand Canyon, United States
No Southwest road trip is complete without the Grand Canyon — hike down the Bright Angel Trail for jaw-dropping views into the canyon. Mather Campground on the South Rim is affordable and reservations can be made in advance. Pack plenty of water as the desert heat can be intense, especially on inner canyon hikes.