Natural events truly connect us to the wonders of our world. Whether it’s breathtaking celestial shows lighting up the night sky or remarkable wildlife migrations showcasing the power of nature, these moments ignite our sense of awe and curiosity.
In 2025, numerous natural phenomena are coming up that will provide fantastic opportunities to witness some of the most beautiful sights our planet has to offer.
To help you plan unforgettable camping trips from February to June, here are 19 amazing natural events happening across the U.S. and Canada during those months.
1. Sandhill Crane Migration
February to March | Platte River Valley, Nebraska
Over half a million sandhill cranes stop along the Platte River during migration. This annual event is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in North America, as the cranes gather in large flocks to rest and feed before continuing their journey north.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Visit the Rowe Sanctuary for guided tours and observation blinds. The sanctuary offers educational programs and viewing opportunities that allow visitors to observe the cranes without disturbing them. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see the cranes as they return to the river to roost for the night.
Nearby KOAs:
2. Snow Goose Migration
February to March | Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area, Pennsylvania
During migration, Middle Creek becomes a temporary home for tens of thousands of snow geese. This amazing spectacle marks the arrival of spring as the geese come together in massive flocks to rest and refuel before heading north. Witnessing the sight and sound of thousands of geese taking off and landing is truly awe-inspiring!
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Try to visit at dawn or dusk. These times are when the geese are most lively, offering fantastic chances for observation and photography. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture those incredible moments. Also, dress warmly, as it can get quite chilly in the early morning and evening. Check the wildlife management area’s website for the latest updates on migration patterns and viewing conditions.
Nearby KOAs:
Jonestown/Hershey NE KOA Journey
Lancaster/New Holland KOA Journey
3. Manatee Viewing Season
February to March | Crystal River, Florida
Manatees, often called sea cows, come together in the warm waters of Crystal River when winter arrives. This spot serves as a safe haven for these gentle creatures, allowing them to escape the chill of the Gulf waters.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Check out the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge for amazing viewing experiences! You can hop on a guided snorkeling or kayaking tour to closely examine the manatees in their natural environment. Just be sure to follow all the guidelines to keep the manatees safe and happy.
Nearby KOAs:
Clearwater/Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday
4. Sea Lion Pupping Season
February to April | Channel Islands National Park, California
Sea lions welcome their pups on the sandy shores of the Channel Islands, making for a vibrant and touching sight. The little ones arrive with a cozy layer of fur and rely on their mothers for food and safety.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Consider taking a boat tour around the Channel Islands. Don’t forget to pack binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to catch those adorable moments between the mothers and their pups. Remember to adhere to all guidelines to ensure the wildlife and their environment remain undisturbed.
Nearby KOAs:
5. Wildflower Bloom in the Desert
February to April | Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California
The Anza-Borrego Desert comes alive with a stunning array of flowers following winter rains. This spectacular event, called a “super bloom,” happens when an exceptional amount of rainfall triggers the mass sprouting of wildflower seeds lying dormant in the ground.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Stop by the park’s visitor center to get updates on the blooms and find out where to see the best views. The rangers are great resources for recommending the top trails and spots to catch the most breathtaking sights. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the desert can be pretty intense even in the spring. Planning your visit for early morning or late afternoon is the best way to steer clear of the hottest part of the day.
Nearby KOAs:
Boulevard/Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday
6. Gray Whale Migration
February to April | Pacific Coast, California to Alaska
Gray whales travel along the Pacific Coast, from their Baja, California breeding grounds, to their Arctic feeding areas. This journey is among the longest mammal migrations, reaching up to 12,000 miles for the round trip.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Head to coastal lookout points and consider joining whale-watching tours in places like Monterey Bay, California, and Depoe Bay, Oregon. Don’t forget to pack binoculars for a better view and contact local tour operators to find the optimal times and spots for whale sightings.
Nearby KOAs:
7. Bald Eagle Nesting
February to June | Skagit River, Washington
Bald eagles make their homes and raise their young along riverbanks. This time is vital as they construct nests, lay their eggs, and nurture their chicks. The Skagit River region is perfect for these magnificent birds, offering plenty of food and ideal nesting spots. It also makes for a fantastic place to watch them in action.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Head to the Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center. They provide valuable information, guided tours, and educational programs that let you observe the eagles without causing any disturbance. Don’t forget to bring binoculars for a closer view of the nests and the eagles soaring through the sky, and make sure to dress warmly since the weather can be pretty chilly and damp.
Nearby KOAs:
Burlington/Anacortes KOA Holiday
Concrete/Grandy Creek KOA Holiday
8. Cherry Blossom Festival
March to April | Washington, D.C.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a vibrant celebration of the blooming cherry trees in Washington, D.C., representing the beautiful friendship between the United States and Japan. This lively festival showcases a range of cultural activities, from parades and performances to art displays, all highlighting the breathtaking cherry blossoms.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Head to the Tidal Basin, where you’ll find some of the most stunning views. Don’t miss out on the Blossom Kite Festival, a delightful event that adds color to the celebration. To make the most of your visit, try to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and snap some amazing photos of the blossoms reflecting on the water.
Nearby KOAs:
Washington D.C./Capital KOA Holiday
Harpers Ferry/Civil War Battlefields KOA Holiday
9. Grunion Run
March to August (peak April to June) | Pacific Coast, Southern California
Grunion are tiny, shiny fish that appear on the beaches of Southern California to lay their eggs during high tides. This fascinating event, known as the grunion run, happens on certain nights after the full and new moons when these fish ride the waves onto sandy shores.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Check the tide charts and head to the beach at night. Bringing a flashlight with a red filter is a good idea to prevent disturbing the fish and other wildlife. Wear comfy shoes and be ready to get a little wet, as the prime viewing spots are usually right by the water. Always respect local rules and try not to disturb the spawning fish.
Nearby KOAs:
10. Alligator Mating Season
April to June | Everglades National Park, Florida
Alligators really ramp up their activity and vocalizations during mating season, which makes watching these incredible creatures even more thrilling. The Everglades offer a one-of-a-kind habitat where alligators flourish, and you can hear their mating calls echo throughout the wetlands.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Consider hopping on a guided airboat tour to catch a glimpse of alligators in their natural habitat. Be sure to visit the park’s visitor centers for tips on the prime viewing locations and important safety guidelines. Remember to keep a safe distance and avoid feeding or bothering the wildlife.
Nearby KOAs:
Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort
11. Wildflower Bloom in the Great Smoky Mountains
April to June | Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains are home to more than 1,500 species of flowering plants, making springtime a breathtaking season filled with wildflowers. You’ll find a wonderful mix of flora, including trilliums, lady’s slippers, and bleeding hearts, all contributing to a lively and colorful scenery.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Hit the park’s trails. Various paths highlight different habitats and floral varieties. Stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center to get the scoop on the top trails and the current blooming status. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning sights, and you might want to join a ranger-led wildflower walk for some fascinating insights. Wear sturdy shoes and carry enough water, as some trails can be a bit tough.
Nearby KOAs:
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Holiday
Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday
12. Puffin Season
April to August | Coastline of Newfoundland, Canada
Puffins return to their nesting sites in the warmer months, creating a vibrant and energetic show. These delightful seabirds are easily recognized by their unique black and white feathers and strikingly colorful beaks, which they flaunt to attract partners during the breeding season. There are an estimated 600,000 puffins in Newfoundland alone.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Consider joining a guided tour to puffin colonies, where you can gain valuable insights into their behaviors and conservation efforts. These tours often take you to prime viewing locations and provide fascinating information about the puffins’ life cycle and their natural habitats. Don’t forget to pack binoculars for a closer view of these amazing birds, and wear sturdy shoes for navigating the rocky coastal trails.
Nearby KOAs:
Gros Morne/Norris Point KOA Holiday
13. Caribou Migration
April to June | Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska
The Porcupine Caribou Herd is known for one of the longest land migrations on the planet, covering up to 2,000 miles yearly. They journey from their winter habitats in the boreal forests of Canada to their calving areas on the coastal plains of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. This migration is essential for the caribou’s life cycle, as it allows them to access nutrient-rich feeding spots and safe places to give birth, which is vital for their survival.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Consider booking a guided tour with a trusted operator. This way, you can safely observe the migration and gain insights into caribou behavior. The ideal time to witness the caribou is spring migration to the calving grounds. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture those incredible moments, and make sure to dress in layers to keep warm in the often brisk weather.
Nearby KOAs:
Fairbanks/Chena River KOA Journey
14. Elk Calving Season
May to June | Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Elk give birth in Yellowstone’s meadows, making this time vital for the elk population’s survival. As the calves start to grow while their mothers closely watch them, Yellowstone National Park’s meadows offer a safe and nutrient-rich habitat for these young elk to flourish.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Stick to the designated trails and maintain a respectful distance. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens to observe the elk without causing any disturbance. Stay aware of your surroundings and adhere to park guidelines to ensure your safety and the well-being of the wildlife. The early morning and late afternoon are ideal times to spot elk, as they tend to be most active during these hours.
Nearby KOAs:
Yellowstone Park/Westgate KOA Holiday
Yellowstone Park/Mountainside KOA Journey
15. Pronghorn Antelope Fawning Season
May to June | Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Pronghorn antelope welcome their fawns in the park’s expansive grasslands. These little ones arrive with incredible speed and agility, crucial for dodging predators during their vulnerable early days.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Hike the park’s trails early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best chances of seeing pronghorns and their fawns. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to observe the animals from a safe distance. Visit the park’s visitor centers for information on pronghorn behavior and safety tips.
Nearby KOAs:
Cody/Yellowstone East KOA Holiday
16. Firefly Synchronization
Late May to early June | Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
In a breathtaking show, a stunning spectacle unfolds as thousands of fireflies coordinate their glowing patterns. This enchanting event, referred to as “synchronous fireflies,” happens when male fireflies light up together to draw in females.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Book your parking pass in advance since this event attracts many visitors. Bring along a red flashlight to help maintain your night vision. It’s a good idea to arrive at the viewing area before sunset to grab a prime spot and be patient, as the fireflies usually start their performance once it’s dark. Avoid using bright lights or flash photography, as these can interfere with the fireflies’ natural behavior.
Nearby KOAs:
Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Holiday
Gatlinburg East/Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday
17. Baby Sea Turtle Hatchlings
May to August | Padre Island National Seashore, Texas
Experience the incredible moment when baby sea turtles embark on their first journey to the ocean. This amazing trek is a vital part of their life cycle and a truly heartwarming sight for anyone lucky enough to witness it. As the hatchlings make their way from their nests to the sea, they encounter various challenges, showcasing the remarkable resilience of nature.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Consider participating in a ranger-led hatchling release program for a more enriching experience. These programs educate you about sea turtle conservation and provide the best chances to see the little ones up close. Ensure to arrive early to grab a good spot, and adhere to all guidelines to keep the turtles safe. A flashlight with a red filter is a great idea to reduce any disturbance.
Nearby KOAs:
South Padre Island KOA Holiday
18. Glacier Bay Ice Calving
May to September | Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Witness massive ice chunks break off glaciers and crash into the sea. This dramatic process, known as “ice calving,” occurs when the leading edge of a glacier advances into the ocean and fractures under its own weight.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Take a boat tour for the best vantage point. These tours often provide close-up views of the glaciers and the opportunity to hear the thunderous sounds of ice calving. Dress warmly, as conditions on the water can be cold, and bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture the action.
Nearby KOA:
Fairbanks/Chena River KOA Journey
19. Bioluminescent Plankton
June to October | Space Coast, Florida
Bioluminescent plankton light up the water with a stunning blue glow when disturbed, creating a truly magical experience. This incredible natural event happens when tiny organisms, like dinoflagellates, release light in reaction to movement in the water. The best time to see this glowing spectacle is on dark, moonless nights, and it can be found in various coastal regions around the globe.
Pro Tips for Best Viewing: Consider joining a guided nighttime kayaking tour. These tours are fantastic for getting up close to the bioluminescence, as knowledgeable guides can take you to the prime locations and times for viewing. Wear clothes that can handle getting wet, and don’t forget a waterproof camera to capture the enchanting glow.
Nearby KOAs:
Get ready for an amazing year in 2025, packed with stunning natural events that everyone can appreciate! From breathtaking starry skies to incredible wildlife migrations, there’s something for every nature lover and traveler. These experiences are perfect for connecting with the beauty of our planet.
So, don’t forget to mark your calendars and start planning your adventures to see these spectacular sights up close. Take this chance to enjoy the wonders of nature and make unforgettable memories in the great outdoors!
Leslie is a travel writer, copywriter, and web designer who gets butterflies from telling stories through words and visuals.
Her voice comes from a place filled with passion, dreams, and lots of sugar. “Cake over steak” is her go-to motto.
With over 10 years of experience in crafting words, and years of embarking on travels that have taken this Montana girl to some incredible places, Leslie loves the adventures of both body and mind her writing takes her on.
To see what Leslie’s up to in the writing and design world, visit her website here.
