In a world increasingly dominated by technology and constant connectivity, the allure of ‘going off the grid’ has never been stronger. Thankfully, there are a good amount of destinations where you can unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
Join us as we discover 20 of the best off-the-grid destinations across the US.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Imagine a cluster of seven small islands 70 miles west of Key West, accessible only by boat or seaplane. That’s Dry Tortugas for you – a hidden gem in the Gulf of Mexico.
Home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress, this park offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, and a night sky unmarred by light pollution.
Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
If you’re looking for the epitome of wilderness, look no further than Gates of the Arctic. This vast expanse of untouched Alaskan landscape has no roads, trails, or gift shops.
It’s just you, the rugged Brooks Range mountains, and perhaps a grizzly bear or two (at a safe distance). Pack your survival skills and a good map – GPS might fail you here!
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Supai Village, Arizona
In the heart of the Grand Canyon, Supai Village is the most remote community in the lower 48 states. Accessible only by helicopter, horseback, or an 8-mile hike, this hidden oasis is home to the Havasupai tribe and some of the most stunning waterfalls you’ll ever see.
The journey there is half the adventure, but the turquoise waters of Havasu Falls make every step worthwhile.
Cumberland Island, Georgia
This barrier island off Georgia’s coast is a national seashore where nature reigns supreme. With limited ferry access and no paved roads, it’s the perfect place to camp under Spanish moss-draped oaks and pretend you’re a character in a Southern Gothic novel.
Stehekin, Washington
At the head of Lake Chelan in the North Cascades lies Stehekin, a remote community of fewer than 100 year-round residents. With no roads connecting it to the outside world, this picturesque valley is accessible only by boat, floatplane, or an arduous hike.
It’s a hiker’s paradise with a dash of pioneer spirit – just don’t expect to check your email while you’re there.
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Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota
Paddle through a maze of interconnected lakes and streams in this million-acre wilderness area. The Boundary Waters offers a unique off-grid experience where your canoe is your lifeline, and your compass is your best friend.
Ultima Thule Lodge, Alaska
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate the opening scenes of ‘The Sound of Music’ but in a more rugged setting, Ultima Thule Lodge is your spot. Located 100 miles from the nearest road in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, this family-run lodge offers a luxurious take on off-grid living.
Fly in on a bush plane and spend your days exploring glaciers and spotting wildlife – no cell service guaranteed.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada
In the heart of Nevada’s high desert lies a park so remote that it receives only a fraction of the visitors of its more famous cousins. Great Basin National Park is home to ancient bristlecone pines, mysterious limestone caves, and some of the darkest night skies in the country.
It’s the perfect place to contemplate your place in the universe – or just enjoy the silence.
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Zion Ponderosa Ranch, Utah
Perched on a 4,000-acre plateau near Zion National Park, this ranch resort offers a taste of off-grid living with a soft landing. Swap your Wi-Fi for starry skies and your social media feed for actual face-to-face conversations around a campfire.
It’s like summer camp for adults, but with better food and more comfortable beds.
Kalalau Beach, Hawaii
Hidden along the Na Pali Coast of Kauai, Kalalau Beach is the stuff of tropical dreams. It’s only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile hike along the Kalalau Trail.
Your reward is a pristine beach framed by towering cliffs and waterfalls plunging directly into the sea.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Who says you need an ocean for island-hopping? The Apostle Islands in Lake Superior offer 21 islands to explore, complete with sea caves, historic lighthouses, and beaches that look more Caribbean than Midwestern.
Kayak from island to island, camp under the stars, and pretend you’re a modern-day voyageur.
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Hipcamp Locations Nationwide
For those who want to dip their toes into off-grid living without committing to a hardcore wilderness experience, Hipcamp offers a network of private landowners who welcome campers to their properties. From treehouses in Oregon to yurts in New Mexico, it’s like Airbnb for the outdoorsy.
Just don’t expect room service – or any service, for that matter.
Lost Trail Hot Springs Resort, Montana
Tucked away in the Bitterroot National Forest, this rustic resort offers a chance to soak your cares away in natural hot springs surrounded by pristine wilderness. With limited cell service and plenty of hiking trails, it’s the perfect place to disconnect for a while.
Slab City, California
For a different kind of off-grid experience, head to Slab City – a squatters’ community in the Sonoran Desert built on the concrete slabs of an abandoned military base. This ‘last free place in America’ attracts artists, snowbirds, and those looking to live on their terms.
It’s like Mad Max meets Burning Man, with a dash of retirement community thrown in for good measure.
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Mount Katahdin, Maine
At the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail lies Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine and a wilderness lover’s dream. Whether you’re finishing a 2,190-mile trek or just out for a day hike, the rugged beauty of Baxter State Park will make you forget all about your social media.
Channel Islands National Park, California
Just off the coast of bustling Southern California lie five islands that feel worlds away from the mainland. With no services, no lodgings, and limited transportation, the Channel Islands offer a glimpse into what California might have looked like before the Gold Rush.
Kayak through sea caves, spot unique wildlife, and enjoy the novelty of being able to see Los Angeles but not hear it.
Earthship Community, New Mexico
Near Taos, you’ll find a community of off-grid homes that look like they’ve been plucked from a sci-fi movie. These ‘Earthships’ are self-sustaining dwellings built from recycled materials designed to provide shelter with minimal environmental impact.
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Hole-in-the-Wall Campground, California
Deep in the Mojave National Preserve, this campground lives up to its name – it’s a hidden oasis surrounded by volcanic rock formations. With no water, electricity, and Wi-Fi, it’s just you, the desert, and maybe a few bighorn sheep.
It’s the perfect place to channel your inner cowboy.
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia/South Carolina
Straddling the border between Georgia and South Carolina, this wildlife refuge offers a chance to get up close and personal with alligators, turtles, and a dizzying array of birds. Paddle through cypress swamps, hike nature trails, and pretend you’re a 19th-century naturalist discovering new species.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Last but not least, we have Isle Royale – an island so remote it closes for the winter. Located in Lake Superior, this wilderness paradise is a haven for hikers, kayakers, and anyone looking to escape it all.
With more moose than people and a substantial wolf population, it’s about as off-grid as you can get without leaving the country.
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Beyond the Grid: Embracing America’s Wild Spaces
From the sun-baked deserts of the Southwest to the frigid waters of Lake Superior, the United States offers endless opportunities to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. These 20 off-the-grid destinations represent just a fraction of the wild and wonderful places waiting to be explored countrywide.
As you plan your escape, remember that going off-grid isn’t just about finding a place without cell service. It’s about rediscovering the simple pleasures of solitude, the thrill of self-reliance, and the awe-inspiring beauty of unspoiled nature.
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