10 Cheap and Eco-Friendly Destinations in the US

As we all know, the United States is known for being expensive. It is not easy to find cheap and eco-friendly destinations in the US. However, the government and local people play a massive role in creating and identifying good places for tourism.

In the US, there are many places that are only for tourists, especially for those who love to see the beauty of nature, such as mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, etc. In recent years, people have been traveling to the US for eco-tourism. 

However, for pocket-friendly travel, several things in the US are not as cheap as they are in Asian countries.

America is considered one of the most expensive countries to live in, so being budget-friendly in the US can be costly for international travelers and sometimes for those traveling from one state to another as well.

But take your time and read our list of budget-friendly destinations where a nature-friendly journey is possible.

1. MOAB, UTAH

Moab, a beautiful town in Utah, is one of the prominent names that comes into mind when considering eco-tourism in the US. It is located near Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Here, you will see incredible rock formations and narrow valleys. 

The Colorado River and La Saal Mountain loop, covered with greenery, add to the beauty of this place. However, if you love adventurous activities like hiking, mountain climbing, dirt bike riding, and ATV riding, then this place is for you, as biking and hiking trails are available there. And don’t forget to go on the Colorado River for river rafting. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $100-$120 per night for one person.
• Local transport costs around $10-$15 per person daily.
• On average, food can cost around $15-$20 for one person per day.

2. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

National parks are always a go-to place when eco-tourism is a priority. Grand Teton Mountain is the biggest highlight of Grand Teton National Park. 

Here, you will see beautiful rivers, lakes, and dense forests, making it refreshing for tourists. Leight Lake, Jackson Lake, and Taggart Lake give reflections of the stunning surroundings around them. 

It also provides outdoor activities like fishing, boating, hiking, camping, etc. Cascade Canyon Trail and Jenny Lake Trail are famous hiking trails. Along these trails, you can see wildlife such as beavers and Moose. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $130-$150 per night for one person.
• On average, food can cost around $30-$25 for one person per day.

3. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbour is among the most beautiful places for cheap and green tourism. 

The main highlight of Bar Harbor is Acadia National Park, which is home to many fresh lakes. Eagle Lake, however, is the most famous one, and it is also home to many mountains, greenery, and wildlife. 

You can also view the Atlantic Ocean from the rocky coastlines. Mount Desert Island and Cadillac Island are the best mountains, and Cadillac Mountain is always preferred for hiking trails. 

Moreover, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and hiking are among the best outdoor activities for adventure lovers. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $100-$120 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $15-20 per person daily.
• On average, food can cost around $25-$30 for one person per day.

4. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is well known for its green spaces and parks. It is also an excellent place for cost-effective and Eco-tourism destinations. 

The Tennessee River is Chattanooga’s biggest highlight, alongside Lookout Mountain. The river offers an astounding view of its surroundings, and the mountain offers a beautiful view of the town. 

Caves like Raccoon Mountain Caverns, wildlife areas like Chattanooga Zoo, and waterfalls like Glen Falls Trail are beautiful. 

If you seek adventure, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and rock climbing are available. You will also see plenty of scenic areas.

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $50-$60 per night for one person.
• Local transport costs around $15-$20 per person daily, and you can also rent a car.
• On average, food can cost around $25-$30 for one person per day.

5. Sequoia National Park, California 

Due to its remote location, Sequoia National Park has little to no pollution. This park is home to one of the most ancient trees on this planet, the Giant Sequoia Tree.

These trees are so massive that their average height is 250 to 300 feet. At the same time, you will see beautiful mountains covered with plants and trees.  Waterfalls also enhance Sequoia National Park’s beauty.

You will also see massive crystal caves that don’t feel real. This park is also home to many wildlife species, especially bears. For adventure seekers, hiking on the High Sierra Trail is also famous.

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation near this national park costs around $130 per night for one person.
• You can also rent a car.
• On average, food can cost around $15-$20 for one person per day.

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

This national park is known for its breathtaking beauty. The highlight of this park is the Great Smoky Mountain. The national park is covered with trees and plants and remains smoky with fog throughout the year.

It is home to around 19,000 different animal species, including black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. Abram Falls and Laurel Falls are among the most beautiful and captivating areas, with scenic views of the Newfound Gap, Chimneys picnic area, and Foothills Parkway. 

This place is also loved by those who seek adventure, as a hiking trail is available in the park. Popular hiking trails and cave trails include the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Alum Cave Trail, and Grotto Falls Trail. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation near the Great Smoky Mountain costs around $45-$55 per night for one person.
• On average, food can cost around $25-$30 for one person per day.

7. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Outer Banks is a chain of islands in North Carolina connected with the Atlantic Ocean. It is a beautiful place away from the city hustle and pollution. These islands have emerged as a great option for eco-tourism on a budget. 

Here, you will see beautiful beaches like Currituck Beach, Ocracoke Lifeguard Beach, and Carova Beach. For those who also love greenery and wildlife, Springer’s Point Preserve is for you. For a more wonderful view of the Atlantic, lighthouses like Currituck Beach lighthouse are there.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park will give you a feeling that you are in a desert and the ocean is in front of you. You will also see dolphins, turtles, and other marine animals. Water activities like surfing and boating are always available. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $100-$120 per night for one person.
• Local transport costs around $35-$40 per person daily.
• On average, food can cost around $40-$45 for one person per day.

8. Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff is famous for its landscape, which is surrounded by wonderful parks, jungles, and mountains. The main highlights of this place are the Walnut Canyon National Monument and the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. 

Mountains and forests, such as Coconino National Forest and San Fransisco Peaks, add to the beauty of this place. From the hills, you can view the whole city. 

Eco-friendly activities like hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching are available. Because of the snowfall, winter activities like skiing are also available. Don’t forget to visit Lake Mary, a beautiful piece of nature.

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $60-$65 per night for one person.
• Local transport costs around $15-$20 per person daily.
• On average, food can cost around $25-$30 for one person per day.

9. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is a well-known city for sustainable tourists. This beautiful city has everything that a budget-friendly traveler wants. The primary attraction here is the Garden of Gods, which is famous for its rock formation and view of the city from that height. 

Seeing the whole town and the greenery in the nearby area is pleasing and refreshing. After that, Fox Run Regional and Uttey Valley Park will expose you to wildlife and different plants.

At the same time, Helen Hunt Waterfall and Seven Falls are for waterfall lovers. Hiking in this area is also famous. That’s why Seven Bridges Trail and Upper Gold Camp Road are famous for adventure lovers. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flig
• Accommodation costs around $50-$60 per night for one person.
• Local transport costs around $14-$20 per person daily.
• On average, food can cost around $20-$25 for one person per day.

10. Olympic Peninsula, Washington

The Olympic Peninsula is a large scenic landmass in Washington. The highlight is Olympic National Park, which features temperate rainforests, mountain ranges, and coastal beaches. 

You will see a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean from beaches like Ruby Beach and Sand Point. 

Mountains like Mount Olympus and Mount Mystery add to the beauty of that place. That view from the hill towards the ground feels different. 

At the same time, the Hoh rainforest will expose you to different wildlife, plants, and trees. Adventure seekers can also enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching.  

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flights.
• Accommodation costs around $50-$65 per night for one person.
• Local transport costs around $20-$30 per person daily.
• On average, food can cost around $25-$30 for one person per day.

FAQ’s