8 Places to Celebrate Thanksgiving at a Campsite

Written by
Jessica Sanders
Make your holiday camping trip more fun with a Thanksgiving event at one of these festive campgrounds. Whether you run the Turkey Trot at Highlands Hammock State Park or enjoy a local, organic dinner in Yosemite National Park, you're sure to find the perfect way to celebrate this American holiday.
Rainbow Springs State Park
Dunnellon, Florida
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Walk off your Thanksgiving meal at the Rainbow Springs State Park bird walk event. This Citrus County Audubon event, which takes place on November 30, 2013, is the perfect way to wind down after your busy holiday. And, at $2 a person, it's an affordable event to attend.
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Upper Pines
Yosemite National Park, California
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Don't cook your Thanksgiving dinner over the campfire. Instead, head to one of three dinners put on within the park, prepared by professional chefs. Reserve your spot at The Ahwahnee Dining Room for local, organic fare or head to the Mountain Room at Yosemite Lodge for casual food in an elegant setting, with breathtaking views of the falls. You can also indulge at the rustic Wawona Dining room for a lip-smacking meal. Get more details at YosemitePark.com
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Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Falls, Georgia
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This active Thanksgiving event is no easy stroll. The 3-mile "Walk Off That Turkey Hike," on November 29, will have you climbing over boulders and logs and hopping across a river on rocks. Don't forget to pack a lunch, a bathing suit, snacks and water. The trek is $5.
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Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Gregory E. Moore RV Resort
Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
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Spend the holiday in your rig at this coastal Florida RV Park. After you've polished off the turkey and had your last bite of pumpkin pie, head to Americana Under the Stars. Kick back, and listen to a variety of singer songwriters from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., on November 21 and November 28, 2013. Want to sing yourself? Take part in the open mic showcase, which precedes the concert. A $5 donation is suggested, but not required for entrance.
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South Padre Island KOA
South Padre Island, Texas
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Share your favorite dish and the holiday spirit with fellow campers at this potluck event that takes place on Thanksgiving Day. Set up buffet style, the event is casual, and free. Seating is family style, so if you haven't met the neighbors, now's your chance. Don't forget to hit the dessert table before you head back to relax around the campfire.
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Ponca State Park
Ponca, Nebraska
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Celebrate the start of winter at Ponca's 2nd Annual Winterfest the day after your Thanksgiving feast. Children can run around on a kindling hunt, or let their creative juices flow at the arts and crafts table. Gather your family for the Yule log hunt, followed by a bonfire and hayrides. You'll need to have a park entry permit to get in, and some fees may apply once inside.
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Lake Waccamaw State Park
Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina
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Just because the meal is over, doesn't mean you have to stop celebrating. The Talk 'N Turkey, held on November 30, starts at the visitor center, just a short walk from your campsite. From here, your group will head into the wilderness to talk about everything turkey. Practice your gobbles and learn a few fun facts about the wild turkey at this fun Thanksgiving event.
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Highlands Hammock State Park
Sebring, Florida
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Prepare for a day of eating with the Turkey Trot, a 5K run/walk that benefits the Friends of Hammock State Park. With more than 500 expected participants, and children under 13 welcome to join, it's a fun way to spend the morning with your family before the afternoon feast. Go to FloridaStateParks.org for more information on pricing and registration.
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