travel trailer vacation ideas

23 Incredible RV Vacations: Scenic RV Road Trips You Need to Take

Posted on Published: July 7, 2023  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

If you’re seeking the perfect blend of adventure and comfort, an RV road trip may be the perfect getaway! From awe-inspiring national parks to quaint coastal towns and everything in between, the USA offers an incredible array of destinations to explore from the comfort of your home on wheels. Here are the best RV vacations in the USA!

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Start packing up the RV (and the family) now! You’re going to love these RV trips all across the country. Whether you’re looking for a route that’s in your home state, or you’re traveling and then renting an RV, this list has something for everyone!

This list goes beyond somewhere to sit your RV – each destination in this guide is an RV road trip with beautiful landscapes, fun national parks to explore, vibrant cities or wide open spaces.

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Many of these RV routes are best one in the summer months when the weather is (typically) most predictable and reasonable in the USA. But each of these RV vacations below share the best time of year for that particular adventure.

Whether this is your first RV road trip or you’ve been packing up your motorhome or travel trailer for years, these epic destinations are going to blow you away!

Must-see video: RV vacations

RV road trips map

This list covers the best RV trips in the west, east and a bunch of amazing routes in between.  Each pin on this map marks a stop on one of the very best RV routes in the US .

Because I haven’t’ been everywhere in the US in my RV (yet), I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help compile this list of the best RV travel USA ideas! Enjoy!

Epic RV vacations

Get ready to hit the open road and discover some truly unbelievable RV road trips that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Let’s dive in!

1. Great Smoky Mountains: Asheville to Gatlinburg

• Distance: 85 miles
• Recommended time: 2-3 days
• Best time of year: Spring or Fall

If you’re looking for a fun getaway in your RV, then look no further than the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee! One of the best RV vacations in the US, the drive from Asheville North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee is simply gorgeous.

The Smoky Mountains are stunning year-round, though it’s best to avoid this road trip in winter. The National Park Service often closes the road through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee.

This route can technically be done in an afternoon, but you’ll want to spend a day or two on either side of the road trip, at minimum!

While in Asheville, be sure to visit the botanical gardens and the River Arts District. And of course, one of the best attractions in town is the Biltmore Estate . Visit the estate to see the massive 175,000+ square feet of space on 8,000 acres. It’s spectacular!

The drive west towards Tennessee is beautiful, and the Smoky Mountains make their presence known with the hazy-looking views. Stay on Highway 19 until you get to Cherokee, North Carolina. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, a souvenir and check out the cornmeal and grits mill – Saunooke’s Mill .

Next, get ready for an incredibly scenic drive through US Highway 441 (AKA Newfound Gap Road) in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This scenic road is RV-friendly, although it does have some steep grades so be prepared as you drive through the mountains.

You’ll want to stop at Clingmans Dome for 360-degree views of the Smokies. It requires a 0.5 mile (paved) hike with a steep incline, but is well worth it.

Pro tip: don’t miss the turn to Clingman’s Dome! There’s RV-friendly parking at the parking lot, but turning around on 441 will be difficult in an RV if you miss the turn.

Gap Overlook and Ben Morton Overlook are other stops worth the view, if the parking situation isn’t too full when you’re driving through. Of course, there’s various hiking trails along the scenic route as well.

Gatlinburg is the official end of this RV road trip. It’s quite the touristy town, and parking is not RV-friendly at all. Instead, you can stay at Elkmont Campground inside the national park or Greenbrier Campground just outside of Gatlinburg. As with most national park campgrounds, be sure to book it well in advance to reserve your spot.

If you have a day or two to explore the park, you’ll want to check out the fabulous waterfalls, which are most impressive in the springtime. Laurel Falls Trail , Grotto Falls and Abrams Falls Trail are really popular hikes, although if you have a vehicle you’re towing it’s easier to access Grotto Falls and Abrams Falls as they’re located on narrow roads.

This is one of the best RV vacations that’s great for beginner RVers or those based in the Eastern USA and looking for a quicker weekend adventure.

Recommended by me – Nikki of Inspired Routes

2. Alaska RV road trip

• Distance: 1,200 miles
• Recommended time: 10 days
• Best time of year : June, July and August

Alaska is a fantastic state for a scenic and remote RV vacation. An RV road trip through the rugged 49th state allows you to see mountains, glaciers, forests, panoramic coastline, wildflowers, and plentiful wildlife.

Although driving your RV to Alaska is possible, another popular option is to fly into Anchorage and rent an RV. Either way, you should book your campsites as early as possible . Summer is the busy season in Alaska and the good campsites are often booked out months in advance.

The best  10-day Alaska road trip itinerary  will take you to see the diverse beauty of the inland mountains as well as the coastline. But, make sure to plan for at least 10 days to complete this 1,200-mile RV road trip. Alaska is a huge state and you will need to do a lot of driving to see the highlights.

Starting in the city of Anchorage, head north to Denali National Park for a few nights. After Denali, return south to Anchorage for a night and then keep going south to Seward. 

After spending several nights in Seward, drive to the Kenai River Region for a night or two, and then to Homer for your last few nights.  You’ll end your trip by returning north back to Anchorage.

Highlights of the route include Denali National Park and Kenai Fjords National Park, as well as some epic scenic overlooks and state parks along the way.

Two of the best campsites in Alaska for RV camping are Denali Grizzly Bear Resort near Denali National Park and Miller’s Landing in Seward. 

An RV road trip through Alaska will be an incredible and memorable experience!

Recommended by Diane of Travels with Eli

3. Milwaukee to Ludington (an underrated RV vacation idea in the USA)

• Distance: 148 miles by car ferry or 341 miles driving
• Recommended time: 3-4 days
• Best time of year: Mid-May to October, and this small beach town offers amazing outdoor activities. Hence, you want to visit during sunny spring and summer weather to truly enjoy this natural landscape.

Traveling from Wisconsin to Michigan is a unique road trip with an RV, as you can take the S.S. Badger Car Ferry (even for RVs) and enjoy the ride! 

While onboard, you can shop, watch a movie in the movie theater or simply lounge inside. They also have an outside deck with live music, where you can stroll along the deck, play a board game, or even test your luck at the famous Badger Bingo. Kids will enjoy the toddler play area or the kid’s port play area.

If you do not want to take the ferry, you can also easily drive to Ludington. The drive time varies based on traffic, but it is about 4 hours from Chicago, 4 hours from Detroit, and 5.5 hours from Milwaukee.

There are plenty of  things to do in Ludington , including exploring the natural beauty of the region at Ludington State Park. It’s an outdoor enthusiasts paradise with natural beauty from lakes and rivers, forests, and unique sand dunes.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, camping, and even bird-watching in Ludington State Park. Located on Hamlin Lake, RVers will enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding.

Lastly, don’t forget to climb and explore the unique Hamlin Lake Sand dunes that give you a scenic view of Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

This is one of the best and most unique RV road trips in the US, and one worth adding to your must-do list!

Recommended by Hannah of Getting Stamped

4. Phoenix, Sedona, Grand Canyon and Page Arizona (one of the most scenic RV road trips)

• Distance: 478 miles (one way)
• Recommended time: 5-6 Days

There are so many amazing places to visit within driving distance from Phoenix. On this RV road trip, you will visit 3 of the most iconic destinations in Arizona , Sedona, the Grand Canyon and Page, Arizona.

Start in Phoenix and make your way to Sedona, one of the prettiest places in the world. There are a ton of places in Sedona to see incredible views or go on a  Sedona sunrise hike  to see the gorgeous red rocks illuminated in bright orange and red colors.

One of the best campgrounds to stay at in Sedona is Pine Flat Campground located on the scenic byway 89a. You’ll combine scenic accommodations with tone of the most gorgeous RV vacations in the USA!

After spending 1-2 days exploring Sedona, it’s time to head to the Grand Canyon, which is only 110 miles north. The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic national parks in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.

Rent some electric bikes and bike along the rim to Hermits Rest and enjoy stopping off and seeing all the incredible views of the canyon.

The best place to stay near the Grand Canyon is at Mather Campground located inside the park. Advanced reservations are required to get a spot at this campground as it’s super popular.

After spending a day exploring the Grand Canyon, head 132 miles north to Page, Arizona. Once in Page, make a reservation to visit the incredible Antelope Canyon which is one of the prettiest slot canyons in the world.

You can also do the 1.5 mile round trip hike to Horseshoe Bend.

The best campground to stay at in Page is The Canyons , which is located only 10 minutes to Antelope Canyon and 10 minutes to Horseshoe Bend.

As one of the best RV vacation ideas, consider taking this road trip in either the spring or fall as the summer in Arizona can get really hot and be super crowded. 

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

5. San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

• Distance: 200 miles
• Recommended time: 3+ days
• Best time of year: summer or early fall

Hands down, one of the best RV vacations is a road trip from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe. With so much to do at the starting point, stopping point and in between, you could easily spend a week or more exploring this route. You’ll want a minimum of 3 days to see the highlights!

Starting in San Francisco, this is a great road trip for those based in northern California or southern Oregon. While driving an RV in San Francisco isn’t the most fun thing in the world, I can say it’s pretty spectacular driving across the Golden Gate Bridge in a motorhome (or travel trailer) !

You can spend a day (or more) exploring the sights in San Francisco; visit Lombard Street, Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz Island, Exploratorium and more. If you’re towing a vehicle, I’d recommend to leave your RV at your campsite and get a ride share around San Francisco.

From there, make your way northeast to Sacramento . Make a quick gas or food stop, or spend a day or more in the fun city. Highlights include the Capitol Building, Old Sacramento Waterfront, the Old Sugar Mill or do a wine tour.

Next, Lake Tahoe is big! So deciding whether to see (and camp) on the north or south side is important, as you’ll take 2 different routes out of Sacramento. Both areas are wonderful for RV travel, and each has unique experiences.

In north Lake Tahoe, see the incredible views of the lake at Sand Harbor State Park, go swimming, mountain biking or hiking. Furthermore, this dog-friendly destination is great for summertime swimming for your furry friends, too.

In South Lake Tahoe, a must-do is a sightseeing cruise of Emerald Bay. Of course there’s more hiking, paddleboarding and kayaking opportunities, not to mention Van Sickle Bi-State Park.

For camping in North Tahoe, try the Tahoe State Recreation Area or the Alpine Meadow Campground. In South Tahoe, consider the Campground by the Lake or Fallen Leaf Campground . As with most other RV vacations on this list, be sure to book your campground far in advance to ensure a spot.

While Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, the winter driving in an RV (not to mention freezing temperatures) can create challenges. Summer is the best time for this road trip!

6. Santa Fe to White Sands National Park (one of the most underrated RV trips on this list)

• Distance: 397 miles
• Recommended time: 1 week
• Best time of year: late spring

Travel through the heart of New Mexico on an unforgettable Santa Fe to White Sands RV road trip. It’s a perfect route for RVs as the roads are largely flat with incredible views . Even in the areas where the roads turn hilly, it’s nothing that the average rig can’t handle!

Start your adventures in historic Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city. Explore the Plaza and the oldest church in America before settling into your RV spot at the welcoming Santa Fe KOA.

Next, head over to Albuquerque, where you can tour the Old Town, hike in nearby Petroglyph National Monument, or experience the awe-inspiring Albuquerque Balloon Festival. 

Head south to the quirky Roswell, New Mexico, to uncover what happened in this town in 1947. Even if you don’t believe in alien encounters, the town’s extraterrestrial theming is out of this world.

Finally, complete the last leg of your New Mexico RV road trip by heading over the Sacramento Mountains into Alamogordo.

Camp at the Alamogordo/White Sands KOA, which offers free coffee in the morning, pedal bike rentals, a pool, a big game room, and a playground. You can also rent saucers for your White Sands National Park sledding from the front desk.

In Alamogordo, you can take a photo with the world’s largest pistachio at McGinn’s Pistachioland –don’t miss out on their homemade pistachio ice cream!

The New Mexico Museum of Space History is also an excellent way to spend several hours in Alamogordo. You can even visit the grave of the Ham, the famed monkey who flew to space and back in 1961.

The real gem in Alamogordo is White Sands National Park, which is about 15 minutes west of Alamogordo. Plan to spend at least  one day in White Sands  in order to get the most of the sledding, Dunes Drive, Junior Ranger program and more.

Recommended by Natalie of Camping Kiddos

7. Las Vegas to Zion plus the Grand Canyon

• Distance: 425 miles
• Recommended time: 5-10 days

Ready to go on one of the most scenic RV road trips in the USA?  Start your adventure by flying (or driving) into Las Vegas and picking up your RV.

After your RV is ready to go, set out from Las Vegas making your way to Springdale, Utah – the gateway to Zion National Park.

Springdale is the closest town to Zion with plenty of restaurants and RV parks. Watchman Campground, with both campsites and RV hookups, is one of the best places to stay in the area.

Along the way to Zion, there are several different stops along I15 for more sightseeing and breaks from the road, including Valley of Fire State Park and Red Rock Canyon.

Zion is one of the most scenic national parks, home to the red cliffs of Zion Canyon, forested trails, waterfalls, and the Emerald Pools. There are lots of hiking trails, including the famous Angel’s Landing.

Next, hit the road towards Grand Canyon National Park. You can stop at Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, or the town of Page along the way.

After exploring the Grand Canyon, start making your way back to Vegas. Along the way, visit the Route 66 Museum in Kingman, visit the “living ghost town” of Chloride, or make a pitstop at the Hoover Dam before arriving back in Las Vegas.

Once your road trip is over, spend a few days in Las Vegas unwinding at the pool and exploring one of the USA’s most fun cities.

Recommended by Sydney of A World in Reach

Best RV trips in the west

The west coast of the USA is full of dramatic landscapes, curvy roads and scenic views that honestly just seem impossible. Some of my favorite RV trips have been along the west coast.

Let’s keep this list going…

8. Sequoia National Park to Monterey via Big Sur (a personal favorite on this RV vacations list!)

• Distance: 300+ miles
• Recommended time: 3-5 days
• Best time of year: Spring, summer or fall

If you’re looking for the best RV vacations, then this incredibly scenic drive is it! You’ll see the giant Sequoia trees, California’s stunning coastline through Big Sur and the charming town of Monterey.

You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting Sequoia National Park , where you can see the General Sherman Tree – the world’s largest tree by volume! Fun hikes like Congress Trail and Moro Rock will help you fall in love with this fun park.

Note: some roads in the park are quite narrow and depending on the size of your RV, you’ll need – or maybe want – to take the park shuttle .

At Sequoia, there’s the Dorst Creek Campground, perfect for RVs inside the park. Alternatively, the Sequoia Resort and RV Park is near the park entrance.

From Sequoia National Park, you’ll actually head southwest, even though Monterey is slightly north.

Drive through Visalia (a great spot to grab gas) and continue southwest to the s mall town of Cambria, California. Stretch your legs on the boardwalk trail along the beach or shop and dine in the charming downtown.

North of Cambria, you’ll take the incredibly scenic California Highway 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway. While there are too many things to do in Big Sur to mention here, a few RV-friendly highlights include the Sand Dollar Beach, McWay Falls and the Bixby Creek Bridge.

If you’re looking to stay in Big Sur and enjoy a few days exploring the area, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a great spot for RV camping in the heart of Big Sur.

Ending your trip in Monterey, you’ll want to check out the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail, the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row . It’s such a fun city, I’d recommend spending 1-2 days exploring the sights.

9. Glacier to Yellowstone National Park

• Distance: 420 miles
• Recommended time: 7.5-hour drive
• Best time of year: Summer and Fall

There’s just something about the American West that is freeing and magical. It feels like home when you’re out on the open road without a care in the world. 

This is what you get as you road trip between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. But, thankfully, there’s much more to do in this road trip than just gazing out at the vast landscapes. It’s one of the best RV road trips in the west!

You can start your trip in either direction, but for this one, we’ll begin in Glacier and head south to Yellowstone .

At Glacier, you’ll be home to arguably the best views of any National Park in America. With towering peaks cut by glaciers, turquoise waters with glacier silt, and wildlife galore, it’s a mesmerizing experience. 

Do note that you need reservations to enter most of Glacier’s top spots, such as Many Glacier or Going to the Sun Road, or be willing to wake up before 6 am to beat the crowds. 

I suggest spending at least five days in Glacier to see both sides. Your best places to visit are Grinnell Glacier, Iceberg, Hidden and Two Medicine Lakes. 

If you’re curious how long you should allocate for each destination, I’d recommend spending 67% of your time in Glacier – it’s that good!

As for the specific driving portion of it, there’s little to see between the two famous national parks. I suggest cruising through the heartland and getting to Yellowstone quickly. 

Once in Yellowstone, make sure to hit the classics: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Morning Glory, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can see a lot of the park in just two days, allowing you to keep this  epic road trip  to a reasonable length. 

Recommended by Alec of Explore with Alec

10. Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park (one of the most interesting RV routes in the US)

Distance: 577 miles (if starting and ending in Los Angeles) Recommended time: 5 Days Best time of year: Fall to Spring

A  Joshua Tree and Death Valley road trip  is the ultimate Southern California experience! Los Angeles makes for an easy starting point, but you can also choose to start in Las Vegas . This whole RV road trip is around 600 miles and you will want to plan a minimum of 5 days.

Spend at least one full day in Joshua Tree, visiting all of the best hikes including the Cholla Cactus Garden, Arch Rock, Barker Dam and Hidden Valley. Joshua Tree is also an amazing spot to stargaze if the weather is clear.

Staying in the park will allow you to make the most of your trip, so reserve your campground in advance!

After having your fill of Joshua Tree, drive up to Death Valley National Park to continue on with one of the best RV vacations.

There are a few reservable campsites in Death Valley, but if you do not get one, there is also a large first-come, first-served campground near Furnace Creek .

In Death Valley, you do not want to miss spots like the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and Gold Canyon.

Make sure to stop at the lowest point in North America- Badwater Basin Salt Flats!

Keep in mind some side roads are restricted to vehicles under 25 feet long like Artist Palette Drive, but the majority of the popular spots are accessible.

Plan this trip when it is not too hot out, as Death Valley has the hottest recorded temperature on Earth! Fall and Spring are the best time to visit.

The desert temperatures can drop at night and it can get very windy, so this makes a perfect RV road trip, as you can shelter from the elements.

Recommended by Val of Voyages with Val

11. Ashland to Crater Lake National Park

• Distance: 92 miles
• Recommended time: 1-2 days
• Best time of year : July – September (These are often the only months the roads are not closed due to snow!)

Oregon is a state full of beautiful scenery, and makes for one of the best RV trips west coast. Perhaps one of the most beautiful spots is Crater Lake.

This natural lake is the deepest in the United States and one of the most pure. From the blue water to the fresh, clean air, an RV vacation from Ashland to Crater Lake National Park will not disappoint.

Visitors can explore the rim of the lake on a variety of hiking trails. Boats even take visitors to Wizard Island to get a unique view of the stunning scenery. 

The RV road trip from Ashland to Crater Lake is beautiful in its own right. Highway 62 often travels along the Rogue River. You’ll pass through little towns with charming names like Shady Cove and Prospect. 

As you get closer to the lake, watch for bald eagles flying overhead or nesting on top of trees. But the highlight of the day will be cresting the final ridge and getting your first glimpse of the lake . It’s truly breathtaking.

There is one campground nearby that allows RVs. Mazuma Campground is seven miles from the Rim Village Visitor Center .

It’s a beautifully maintained campground and very popular. Be sure to make reservations in advance to secure your spot.

The road trip from Ashland to Crater Lake is short enough for a day trip, but one day may not be long enough to get your fill of the astounding beauty.

Recommended by Sherry of  Digital Nomad and a Dog

12. Highway 395, California (another stunning route on the RV vacations list)

• Distance : 201 miles
• Recommended time: 7 days
• Best time of year: Spring or fall

The entire length of Highway 395 is gorgeous, but its southern portion, from Bridgeport, California to Death Valley National Park is next-level epic . It’ll surely be one of your most memorable RV trips on the West Coast (maybe even the whole USA!)

You can even drive along this route as part of a longer trip, such as from Yosemite National Park, whose Tioga Pass entrance is right by Bridgeport (note that this is only accessible from mid-summer through mid-fall).

You’ll drive along the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains the entire time —not only is the scenery breathtaking, but the drive is an RVer’s paradise, with tons of campgrounds and dispersed camping along the way.

Start in the charming town of Bridgeport, where you’ll find the under-the-radar  Buckeye Hot Springs  and Travertine Hot Springs. As an added bonus, there’s lots of dispersed camping spots right by Buckeye in Stanislaus National Forest!

Continue on to Mono Lake , one of the oldest in the United States at over one million years old. The lake is famous for its tufas, unique spires that are a byproduct of calcium carbonate. 

The ski town of Mammoth Lakes is your next stop on one of the best RV road trips in the US. If you visit in the spring, there’s a good chance you’ll still be able to enjoy the fresh powder on Mammoth Mountain , one of the best ski resorts in the country. This area is actually one of the best snowy winter vacations in USA !

During the spring, there’s plenty of natural hot springs to enjoy in Mammoth Lakes as well. 

Next up is Alabama Hills , which looks like something from another planet, with enormous monzogranite boulders scattered across the desert floor and the towering peaks of the Sierras in the background.

Score a spot at the Tuttle Creek Campground to have this scenery as your backyard for a night.

Finally, Death Valley National Park will be the endpoint of your visit. This park is one of the most dynamic in the national park system, offering colorful badlands, sand dunes, salt flats and towering mountains.

If you’re interested in doing more than quickly driving through the park, plan your road trip in either early spring or late fall—it’s famously sweltering in the summer months!

This is easily one of the best RV vacations for those based in or near California.

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

13. Los Angeles to San Diego

• Distance: 120 miles
• Recommended time: 3 days
• Best time of year : Late spring or early fall

A RV road trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is magical. The 110 mile-drive is filled with scenic sights, beaches, and parks.

If driving straight through, expect it to take right around 2 hours, but I highly recommend at least 3 days to ensure you have time to see everything.

The most popular route (and the most scenic of them all) is the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). It is also known as Highway 1. It offers the stunning views of the California coastline.

While driving, make sure to take the exit 62 to Las Pulgas Road because it offers an oceanic panoramic view that can take your breath away.

After continuing down Highway 1 on one of the best RV trips west coast, you will pass by Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach . They are some of the most popular beach towns in California. If you have time, they would be a good place to stop for brunch, swimming, or just to soak up the sun.

It’s no secret that California is home to some busy roads! The best time of the day to start this road trip is before morning rush hour to avoid the congestion. If you do not make stops along the way, you could even make it all the way to San Diego without any traffic issues!

Finally, after arriving in San Diego you can check out the exciting theme parks such as Seaworld, Disneyland, or Legoland. There’s so many things to do in San Diego with kids , it makes for a great family RV vacation for the whole family!

No matter how you choose to spend your time in California , it will surely be one of your most beloved RV vacations!

Recommended by Ossama of Awesome Traveler

RV road trips in the east

Traditionally the western part of the USA is known for its outdoor adventure, and a great spot for RVers. However, the eastern part of the US has some pretty spectacular RV vacation ideas too. Check these out!

14. Florida’s A1A

• Distance: 338.7 miles
• Recommended time: 6-8 days
• Best time of year: Winter

Hop in the RV and fire up the AC for a scenic trip along Florida’s A1A. This State Road runs from Fernandina Beach, just south of Georgia on Amelia Island, to the lively Key West , south of the Sunshine State. It’s one of the very best RV vacation ideas in the USA.

While the drive is pretty, there’s plenty of opportunity to get off the route to see Florida’s coastal cities.

Visit some of the “oldest” streets and buildings in the country at  St. Augustine , spend the day at the beach in Flagler, or watch the fast cars of Daytona.

Continue along the road and be sure to climb the stairs at Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse in New Smyrna, go shopping at West Palm Beach and admire the Art Deco in Miami Beach.

Finally, you’ll get to drive over the famous Seven Miles Bridge to the Florida Keys.

According to Google Maps , doing the route with no stops would take just over nine hours. However, many locations featured in the trip are notorious for traffic, so factor this time in. 

Obviously, you’ll want to make stops at attractions, how many will be dictated by your set vacation time! 

There are plenty of options for RVs to camp along the route, such as the Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort, which has Atlantic Ocean views. Bliss. 

The best time to visit the East Coast of Florida depends on hurricane patterns, with the season running from June until November.

Also, the summer months might be too humid for out-of-staters. While winter is too cold for locals, visitors enjoy the warm temperatures, relatively crowd-free beaches, and the chance to see manatees!  

Recommended by Amanda of Hey! East Coast USA

15. Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park (a great RV vacation for fall colors!)

• Distance: Skyline Drive is 105 miles from Waynesboro to Front Royal, Virginia. 
• Recommended time: 3 hours to drive this 35-mph road, but you’ll want to stop and stay in one or two of the campgrounds. 
• Best time of year: October is the perfect time to take in the fall colors and enjoy cooler weather. 

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful RV routes in the United States, then Skyline Drive is a must-do! Spanning 105 miles of gorgeous mountain scenery in Shenandoah National Park, this picturesque roadway is perfect for RV travelers.

It traverses the entire length of the park and offers easy access to all the amenities and activities the park has to offer.

Although you can drive the entire length of Skyline Drive in just a few hours, you won’t want to leave that soon. And with four  campgrounds in Shenandoah National Park , you don’t have to either!

All of the campgrounds have plenty of pull-thru and back-in sites for all sizes of RVs. There aren’t any hookups (water, power, or sewer), but they do have bathrooms, showers, and dump stations. They are seasonal with a range of operation between March and November each year. 

The drive is home to 61 overlooks allowing your ample opportunity to stop and take in the views of the Shenandoah Valley and the Massunutten mountains.

If you want to experience more of the park on foot, be sure to enjoy some of its 500 miles of trails, including some of the most beautiful waterfalls you’ll experience on the east coast. 

One caution for RVers is the low clearance Mary’s Rock Tunnel near Thorton Gap at mile 32. The clearance is only 12’8”, but there are four entrances to Skyline Drive so if your RV is higher than that, you can access it via one of the other points. 

This fun drive is by far one of the best RV trips in the US, and one worthy of putting on your bucket list!

Recommended by Julie of Chickery’s Travels 

16. Boston to Portland

• Distance: 110 miles
• Recommended time: 2-5 days
• Best time of year: Summer or Fall

Making a trip from Boston, MA to Portland, ME can be a fun and easy road trip for those who are looking for a short but beautiful RV route.

Normally the drive is just two hours long (110 miles) on I-95, but if you can spare some extra time there are plenty of scenic stops and charming seaside towns to extend your drive. 

Start your journey in Boston, Massachusetts which is a fun city to explore in itself. If you have a day or two, be sure to check out these date ideas in Boston if you’re on this road trip as a duo!

Don’t forget to stop at world-famous Fenway Park (Go Sox!). Check out the Freedom Trail and join a guided walking tour of some of the city’s most iconic historic sites.

Continue your journey in Salem, Massachusetts and explore the history of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. If you’re visiting in October, there are specialized tours like Hocus Pocus and ghost tours that will help you get in spooky mood!

Head north to the charming seaside town of Ogunquit, Maine for a quintessential  New England beach town . This picturesque town is only four miles long and boasts stunning ocean views as well as a quaint town center. Dont forget to grab a lobster roll!

Cape Elizabeth Maine is a perfect stop to see some quintessential New England lighthouses. There are three main lighthouses – Portland Head Light, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, and Bug Light. 

Finally, end your trip in the city of Portland. It is a hub for art and culture, with plenty of food and drink spots to explore. It’s a fun town to explore, and a perfect stopping point for one of the best RV vacations routes in America.

Visit local breweries like Allagash or Moon Dog Craft Brewery, or take a ferry out to Peaks Island to explore the seashore. 

Optional: you could even take the road trip a step farther and go north to Acadia National Park or Bar Harbor. Maine has so many destinations to offer visitors but a Portland RV road trip is a must!

Recommended by Sierra of Your Guide to Wandering

17. Miami to Islamorada (top routes for RV travel USA)

Distance: 90 miles Recommended time: 2 – 3 days Best time of year: Winter and Spring

Traveling to the Florida Keys with your family or friends is an exciting RV road trip. While Key West is the most well-known island to visit, traveling to Islamorada is even better.

Islamorada’s waters are famous for their clarity and rich marine life , earning the title of “Sport Fishing Capital of the World.” Legends like Zane Grey and Ernest Hemingway used to frequent the area to catch big game fish.

It’s situated about 80 miles southwest of Miami, and the driving distance between the two destinations typically covers around 90 miles, depending on the route. Depending on traffic and route selection, it usually takes between 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to reach Islamorada. However, you’ll want to spend time in Miami and Islamorada to enjoy the destination.

The best time of year to visit Islamorada is during the winter and spring months, specifically from December to April. This period is characterized by warm and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and water sports. 

The average temperatures range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius), providing comfortable conditions for exploring the area.

Additionally, visiting during this time allows you to avoid the peak tourist season, which occurs during the summer months when temperatures are hotter and the area can be more crowded.

You’ll definitely want to stay at least 2 days in Islamorada if not 3. This is a great, relaxing drive allows you to get in touch with marine life and nature, and is by far one of the best RV road trips.

While in Islamorada, be sure to visit Olive Morada , which is a local shop that has delicious olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which you can do a free tasting. Plus, it’s a great shop if you are in need of souvenirs that are not cheesy.

A stay at Tavernier Elks Lodge makes this one of the best RV vacations in the USA. Just be sure to reserve your campsite early as space is limited!

Islamorada is a great RV road trip because it is gorgeous, relaxing, and allows you to reconnect with nature and loved ones.

Recommended by Fuse of Fuse Travels

More RV vacations in the US

Rounding out this list are a few of my personal favorites. From the incredible dramatic landscapes of Utah, the underrated Midwest and the beachy coasts, let’s finish out this guide to the best RV routes in the US!

18. Utah’s Mighty 5 (another favorite on this list of RV road trips)

• Distance: 362 miles
• Recommended time: 6-10 days
• Best time of year: spring or fall

This is it! One of the very best RV vacations in the United States, and it’s sooo good! This Utah national parks road trip covers a lot of ground, and some truly spectacular sights.

Starting in Moab, Utah, you’ll discover two nearby national parks. There are many things to do in Moab and you’ll want to spend at least two days there. A great RV campground between Arches and Canyonlands is Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway.

Spend a day exploring Arches National Park. Hike to the famous Delicate Arch and see The Windows area , where there’s several arches within a few minutes walk from the parking lot.

In Canyonlands National Park, be sure to visit the Grand View Point Overlook, Green River Overlook and Mesa Arch. The canyon is beyond impressive! And with fewer visitors than Arches, you may even get a break from the crowds!

Between Moab and Capitol Reef National Park, enjoy the incredible Utah Scenic Byway 24 in your RV . In Capitol Reef, visit the Fruita Historic District and the orchards, and hike the Hickman Bridge Trail . On your way to the next park, stay in Wonderland RV Park .

A personal favorite along this incredible RV road trip is the Scenic Byway 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon. The views are out of this world – and just continue as you see the famous hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Bryce Point and Inspriration Point offer amazing views of the park. And if you’re up for a hike, check out the popular Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop to hike down into the canyon through the funky rock formations. So fun!

Your last stop on this RV vacation is Zion National Park. Home to an amazing canyon, this park is often a bucket list check for travelers. The Zion Canyon Campground just outside the park or Watchman Campground inside the park are both great for RVs.

Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail or The Narrows for incredible views of Zion. And regardless of whether you’re traveling to Zion with kids in the RV or not, this will be a highlight of your trip!

Pro tip: When you’re driving through Zion, the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is tricky to navigate. You’ll pay a separate fee to drive an RV through the tunnel, and you’ll want to time it right to arrive during business hours because the NPS will actually block off traffic to allow your RV to drive down the center of the road. It’s quite the experience!

When you’re thinking about RV travel USA, the Mighty 5 in Utah is the perfect adventure!

19. Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail

• Distance: 293 miles
• Recommended time: 2+ days
• Best time of year: summer

This is truly a hidden gem in the US, and one of the best RV vacation ideas if you live in the Midwest . It connects Toledo with Conneaut, hitting major towns like Sandusky and Cleveland. It’s RV-friendly and offers a ton of outdoor recreation along the way.

The Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail is located along Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes in the northern US. Although you could technically drive this in one day in an RV, it’s much more exciting to stop at the many adventures along the way.

Starting at the west end of the trail in Toledo, check out the botanical gardens, museums, zoo and restaurants. Just near Toledo is a fun Ohio pumpkin farm , Fleitz Pumpkin Farm. In Port Clinton, be sure to enjoy a meal in the adorable downtown. Afterwards, head to the beach at Waterworks Park and the Port Clinton Lighthouse.

One of my favorite stops along this route is the Marblehead Lighthouse. This free attraction is also the most photographed spot on Lake Erie. It just screams summer on the lake vibes!

There’s also so many things to do in Sandusky Ohio , nearby. Get your thrills at Cedar Point, the 2nd oldest amusement park in America. And bonus: it has RV-friendly parking.

Further along the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail is Cleveland, the home of rock and roll. Enjoy the North Coast Harbor, the Great Lakes Science Center and of course, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The next stop in your RV should be Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor. This gem includes a natural, mile-long beach perfect for relaxing. A perfect addition to one of the best RV trips in the Midwest!

Lastly, Conneaut Township Park is a fun spot to see on the far eastern end of the scenic trail. If you’re a history buff, you won’t want to miss the D-Day reenactment at the park each year.

Other outdoor adventures along the route include hiking, biking and a plethora of water sports. There’s also so much wildlife to be seen, especially in the active summer months. This underrated and scenic RV vacation is one of the best in the Midwest!

20. Denver to Santa Fe (another underrated spot on this list of RV vacation ideas)

• Distance: The easiest and quickest route from Denver, CO to Santa Fe, NM is 392 miles.
• Recommended time: This drive could easily be done in one day or could be drawn out over 3-4 days.
• Best time of year: Fall is one of the best times to take this road trip because of the moderate temperatures and fall foliage that you get to experience along the way.

A road trip from Denver to Santa Fe must be on your bucket list as one of the best RV vacations to embark on throughout the United States. This trip takes about 6 hours in length, making it the perfect road trip to take in one day or to spread out over 3-4 days! 

As you make your way from Denver towards Santa Fe, you will pass through an abundance of beautiful terrain and popular towns. 

About an hour and a half into the drive, you will pass through the marvelous town of Colorado Springs!

For those looking to catch some tremendous views of the surrounding mountains and red rock formations, be sure to stop by the Garden of the Gods . This is the perfect stop for those looking to stretch their legs for a bit and take in the beautiful Colorado landscape. The Siamese Twins Garden of the Gods hike is perfect for a quick adventure!

For those looking to extend their stay in the area, the Garden of the Gods RV Resort is the perfect destination to stop for a night or two along the way. 

After visiting Colorado Springs, we recommend continuing your drive one of the best RV road trips, south through several smaller towns and along I-25 until you arrive at the charming city of Santa Fe so that you can spend as much time exploring this marvelous town as possible. 

We recommend staying for a minimum of 72 hours in Santa Fe so that you can take in the immense history, culture, and cuisine that this delightful city has to offer!

Recommended by Abby of Trekking Price’s

Related read: Denver to Albuquerque Drive: 10 Scenic Stops You Can’t Miss

21. Austin to Corpus Christi

• Distance: 217 miles
• Best time of year: December – May

This fun and unique RV vacation idea for those located in or near Texas! Because of the extreme heat in Texas, this road trip would be best done in the winter or spring. Just make sure your RV is set up for freezing temperatures as that can sometimes in the deep of winter too.

Start this adventure in the lively town of Austin . With a plethora of street art, live music, good food and entertainment, spend a day (or 2) in Austin.

For outdoor adventures, go hiking in McKinney Falls State Park or check out the views from the top of Mount Bonnell. There are plenty of Austin campgrounds for RVs, too.

From Austin, drive southwest to San Antonio. Visit the famous San Antonio River Walk for entertainment and restaurants. For some thrilling entertainment, visit Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which is open year-round.

Check out The Alamo and the Historic Market Square to round out your time in San Antonio. The KOA in San Antonio puts you in a good position for hopping on and off the main roads while putting you close to the action.

After leaving San Antonio, head south to Corpus Christi. This Texas town has some fun things to do including museums, shopping and restaurants. But the star of the area is the beach-camping in your RV!

Just southeast of Corpus Christi are a few RV parks where you can camp on the beach. Wake up to the sound of the ocean from your RV – so fun! The Port Aransas area is lots of fun, and is home to On the Beach RV Park, which offers a great stay. Book in advance to get a good spot!

For an off-the-grid adventure, you can camp, hike and enjoy water activities at Padre Island National Seashore. There’s no RV hook-ups, but there is water and a dump station in the park.

If you’re looking for the best RV travel USA, this road trip is certainly a fun one, and unique because of beach camping.

22. New Orleans to Panama City (another gorgeous route on this list of best RV vacations)

• Distance: New Orleans to Panama City: 327 miles (via I-10 E), 386 miles (via I-10 E and US-98 E)
• Recommended time : 1-2 days  
• Best time of year: May – October 

An RV road trip is one of the best ways to explore a new part of the country. With the freedom to pull off or take a detour on a whim, road trips always make for memorable adventures. The stretch of road between New Orleans to Panama City offers a great RV vacation experience. 

Travelers should begin their road trip in New Orleans, home of jazz, voodoo history, riverboat adventures, and so much more. Make sure to take a  New Orleans food tour or cemetery tour before continuing on toward Panama City. 

Travelers who want to travel efficiently and stick to the shortest route won’t run into any exceptionally fun cities or attractions, except for Mobile, Alabama. But, those who have a bit more time to work with might enjoy slight detours to Biloxi, Mississippi, and Pensacola, Florida. 

There are some amazing beaches to explore along this route if schedules allow for a detour to the coast. Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola Beach, and Santa Rosa Beach are just some of the picturesque places travelers can visit along their way to Panama City.   

Travelers who avoid the coastal detour will also be able to enjoy the beach upon arrival in Panama City. Panama City Beach is a wonderful place to spend some time in the sun as well as St. Andrews State Park. 

Spring through early Fall is the best time of year to take this road trip. Here’s to wonderful RV adventures! 

Recommended by Candice of Exploring the Gulf

23. Badlands to Theodore Roosevelt National Park (get ready for beautiful landscapes on this RV road trip)

• Distance: 338 miles
• Recommended time: 3 – 4 days
• Best time of year: spring, summer or fall

An all-American road trip, this scenic route has surprisingly dramatic landscapes! This is one of the most underrated RV vacations on this list, but is sure to be a fun one.

Starting in Rapid City or Wall, South Dakota, head to Badlands National Park. You’ll want to spend a full day here to see the highlights. Drive the scenic loop, with 16 overlooks in just 39 miles, it’s RV-friendly. The Notch Trail is a must-do if you love hiking, and Pinnacles Overlook is one of the best with ample parking.

From there, take a slight detour before heading to North Dakota to see Mount Rushmore , one of the most famous South Dakota landmarks .

An American classic, this presidential tribute is a fun attraction for all ages to visit. Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore welcomes over 3 million visitors – almost 3x the amount of the nearby national park!

Rapid City is a great spot to set up camp for the night. Or, there’s plenty of campgrounds near Sturgis, South Dakota as well. And if you’re in the off-season, stop in town and pick up a souvenir on your road trip!

Pro tip: summer is a great time for this RV road trip, but I’d suggest avoiding late July and early August. This region in South Dakota is extremely congested with the annual Sturgis event, making it extremely difficult to find a campground and a dramatic increase in traffic to the area.

From Sturgis, it’s about 3.5 hours north to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. To see the highlights of this park, you’ll want 2 full days. There are 3 distinct areas of the park: South Unit, North Unit, and Elkhorn Ranch. The Elkhorn Ranch Unit is partially unpaved, and not very RV-friendly so we’ll skip that in this guide.

The South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park is by far the most visited area . Drive the Wildlife Loop Road, where visitors can often see bison, elk, bighorn sheep and pronghorn. Hike the 1-mile Painted Canyon Nature Trail or Buck Hill, which is barely more than a walk to an overlook rather than a hike.

The North Unit feels much more deserted versus the southern area of the park, yet offers expansive views. Take the scenic drive in hopes of seeing mule deer, coyote, pronghorn and even beavers! The Little Mo Trail is a crowd favorite, coming in at less than a mile and paved.

If you want to get campground reservations for your RV, plan your trip in advance as they sell out quickly, especially in the summer months.

So the next time you think about RV travel USA, consider the Dakotas a great spot for a vacation!

RV vacations recap

What an epic list of RV vacations to take in the United States! From fan-favorites, to underrate gems, the options are truly endless! Where will your home on wheels take you next?

Here’s a quick recap of the best RV trips from the above list!

Best RV routes

• Great Smoky Mountains: Asheville to Gatlinburg
• Alaska RV road trip
• Milwaukee to Ludington
• Phoenix to Page, Arizona
• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe
• Santa Fe to White Sands National Park
• Las Vegas to Zion plus the Grand Canyon
• Sequoia National Park to Monterey via Big Sur
• Glacier to Yellowstone National Park
• Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Park
• Ashland to Crater Lake National Park
• Highway 395, California
• Los Angeles to San Diego
• Florida’s A1A
• Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park
• Boston to Portland
• Miami to Islamorada
• Utah’s Mighty 5
• Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway Trail
• Denver to Santa Fe
• Austin to Corpus Christi
• New Orleans to Panama City
• Badlands to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Related content to read next: 30 Gorgeous West Coast Road Trip Routes You Gotta See to Believe 29 Amazing Road Trips USA: Scenic (& Underrated) Routes You’ll Love 26 Absolute Best (and Underrated) Fall Drives in the US You’ve Gotta See to Believe

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Sunday 9th of July 2023

Yeeees Nikki!

You choose the best trips as you are so good at including gorgeous natural sights and hikes along the way! The Alaska trip looks like a dream! I am also looking forward to your post after your next Canadian Rockies trip. :)

Monday 10th of July 2023

Thanks so much Josy! Your comment was so nice! Yes, I can't wait for new adventures taking the RV into Canada, too!💙

Anna Schaeffer

Saturday 8th of July 2023

I'm hoping to get a five wheeler in the next year or two! Pinning this for later. Great post!

Oh yay Anna! This would be great inspiration for a new RV!!

I don’t own a RV but this article makes me want to rent one and try these trips! Great roundup.

Oh Terri that's a fabulous idea! You could literally go anywhere on this list too - just fly into the nearest airport, rent an RV and hit the road!

RVing with Rex

Living his dream, Rex Vogel is a Snowbird with a passion for RVing, photography, hiking, and birding.

The Ultimate RV Travel Bucket List: 51 Best Places to Visit in North America

Your road map to hidden gems, cherished natural wonders, and iconic monuments across North America

Are you looking for travel bucket list ideas for your next RV trip? Running out of ideas or looking for fresh ones? From epic classics to exciting newcomers, we have selected the 51 most amazing places to visit or things to do in the U.S. and Canada. Of course, there are many more than 51 places worth visiting.

We have traveled by RV in 47 states and four Canadian provinces but barely made a dent (and our list continues to grow longer and longer).

It’s time to pack the RV and discover beautiful and awe-inspiring places across North America. Following are many of our favorite destinations in the US and Canada to satisfy your wanderlust.

Badlands National Park : South Dakota

With ochre-tinted buttes, graceful spires, and fossil-rich landscapes, Badlands National Park, in southwest South Dakota, entrances visitors with its ethereal vistas.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park : North Carolina and Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts outdoorsy types with its sublime mountain scenery and beautiful old-growth forests.

Banff National Park: Alberta

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is Canada’s first (and arguably most beautiful) National Park.

Charleston : South Carolina

With its Spanish moss, historic architecture, coastal scenery and graceful antebellum mansions, Charleston oozes Southern charm.

Bryce Canyon National Park : Utah

Otherworldly rust-colored hoodoo rock formations are on full display at this popular national park.

Blue Ridge Parkway : North Carolina and Virginia

The nearly 500 miles of blacktop twisting through the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah national parks was built for travelers seeking Appalachian overlooks.

Sedona : Arizona

Sedona attracts nature lovers with its desert landscapes, surreal red rocks, and enchanting vortexes, places where the earth’s energy is reportedly amplified.

Joshua Tree National Park : California

With jaw-dropping desert scenery, prickly Joshua trees, and distinct boulder rock formations, Joshua Tree mesmerizes visitors with its eye-catching landscapes.

Zion National Park : Utah

If your perfect bucket-list includes hitting scenic hiking trails, it’s hard to rival the otherworldly landscapes in Utah’s Zion National Park.

Wells Gray Country : British Columbia

Wells Gray has something to offer every outdoor interest: lush alpine meadows, birding and wildlife viewing, hiking, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and 41 breathtaking waterfalls.

Boston Freedom Trail : Massachusetts

Walk this 2.5-mile path (just follow the red-brick line) that passes 16 historical landmarks from Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church to Bunker Hill and Old Ironside.

Scenic Byway 12 : Utah

The red rock majesty of Utah is on triumphant display on Scenic Byway 12 winding between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon national parks.

Green Mountain Byway: Vermont’s Route 100

The billboard-free Route 100 winds through some of Vermont’s most quintessentially Vermonty villages, with all the cider donuts and country stores that go with them.

Dead Horse Point State Park : Utah

Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point is an iconic peninsula of rock sitting on top of incredible vertical sandstone cliffs.

Tombstone: Arizona

Arguably America’s most infamous Old West town, Tombstone, is the perfect place to see what life was like during the days of the Wild West.

Jekyll Island Club Resort : Georgia

Follow in the footsteps of visitors like J.P. Morgan and the Pulitzer family as you golf, bike, boat, swim, or trot along on a horse-drawn carriage.

Santa Fe : New Mexico

A city that embraces its natural environment, Santa Fe is a city whose beautiful adobe architecture blends with the high desert landscape.

Remember the Alamo : San Antonio, Texas

Home of the famous 1836 battle, the beautiful 300-year-old former Spanish mission turned fortress is the heart of San Antonio and Texas’ most visited historic landmark.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge : Georgia

Hop aboard a flat-bottomed boat and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, egrets, and hawks during a tour of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument : Arizona

Canyon de Chelly has sandstone walls rising up to 1,000 feet, scenic overlooks, well-preserved Anasazi ruins, and an insight into the present-day life of the Navajo.

Mesa Verde National Park : Colorado

A great concentration of ancestral Pueblo Indian dwellings, built from the 6th to the 12th century, can be found on the Mesa Verde plateau in southwestern Colorado.

Red Rocks State Park : Sedona, Arizona

Red Rock State Park is a 286-acre nature preserve and environmental education center with stunning scenery.

Monument Valley : Arizona and Utah

The iconic landscape of Monument Valley symbolizes the American West worldwide with its towering buttes and sweeping skies.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park : Kentucky

My Old Kentucky Home State Park honors the home that was the symbol of Stephen Foster’s endearing song, the stately mansion on the Rowan Estate known as Federal Hill.

Mitchell Corn Palace : South Dakota

The World’s Only Corn Palace is a quirky but cool multi-purpose arena in Mitchell.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument : Washington

The eruption of Mount St. Helens caused a huge landslide to sweep through the Toutle River Valley and remove 1,306 feet from the top of the volcano.

Shiner : Texas

Shiner, Texas is home to 2,069 people, Friday’s Fried Chicken, and—most famously—the Spoetzal Brewery where every drop of Shiner beer is brewed.

Gulf State Park: Alabama

Gulf State Park’s two miles of beaches greet you with plenty of white sand, surging surf, seagulls, and sea shells, but there is more than sand and surf to sink your toes into.

Icefields Parkway: Alberta

The Icefield Parkway is a 144-mile highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields, and vast sweeping valleys.

Cherohala Skyway : North Carolina and Tennessee

Travel the Cherohala Skyway and enjoy panoramic vistas as you wind through the Southern Appalachian high country.

Catalina Highway : Arizona

With a nearly 7,000-foot elevation change in a mere 24 miles, the Catalina Highway is a brilliant ascent with countless curves, numerous vistas, and three major switchbacks.

Myakka River State Park : Florida

Seven miles of paved road wind through shady hammocks, along grassy marshes, and the shore of the Upper Myakka Lake. See wildlife up-close on a 45-minute boat tour.

Natural Bridges National Monument : Utah

These three majestic natural bridges were formed by the power of water in a landscape usually defined by its absence. View them from an overlook or hit the trails.

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument : Arizona

Organ Pipe Cactus is the only place in the U.S. where the organ pipe cactus grows wild.

San Antonio Missions : Texas

The San Antonio Missions are a group of five frontier mission complexes situated along a 7.7-mile stretch of the San Antonio River.

Incline Railway : Chattanooga, Tennessee

Take the incline railway up a 72.7-percent grade on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga. It’s like driving up an insanely pretty wall.

Lassen Volcanic National Park: California

See all four types of volcanoes—cinder cone, composite, shield, and plug dome. Plenty of hydro- and geothermal activity is still found in Lassen Volcanic National Park today.

Okanagan Wine Region : British Columbia

Okanagan wine region is possibly the most scenic wine region in North America and a place where RVers and other normal people can afford to taste wine.

Cedar Breaks National Monument : Utah

At an elevation of over 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks looks down into a majestic geologic amphitheater, a three-mile long cirque of eroding limestone, shale, and sandstone.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park : Alberta

A wide green valley, steep sandstone cliffs, strange rock formations called hoodoos, and rock art—all of these things make Writing-on-Stone a special place.

Lake Powell : Utah and Arizona

Spend a week on Lake Powell boating through slot canyons, anchoring on deserted beaches, and camping under the stars.

Creole Nature Trail : Louisiana

Louisiana’s prairies, marshes and shores teem with wildlife, and a drive along the Creole Nature Trail gives visitors a chance to experience nature’s bounty up close.

Grand Canyon National Park : Arizona

“Grand” doesn’t do this canyon justice. Measuring approximately 277 river miles in length, up to 18 miles in width and a mile deep, this massive chasm is a natural wonder.

Jasper National Park: Alberta

The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is the wildest of the mountain parks and contains the world famous Columbia Icefields.

Congaree National Park : South Carolina

Congaree National Park showcases the largest tract of old-growth floodplain forest remaining on the continent.

Black Hills : South Dakota

Driving through this corner of South Dakota takes you through some of the most rugged, distinctive, and beautiful land in America.

Blue Bell Ice Cream : Brenham, Texas

Stop by for a scoop of ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor, view how Blue Bell is made, shop in the Country Store, and learn more Blue Bell Creameries in the Visitor Center.

Colonial Williamsburg : Virginia

A living history museum and two art museums offer something for everyone, from hands-on activities to original 18th-century buildings to a folk-art collection.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Awaken your senses and explore the birthplace of Bourbon as you embark on a self-guided journey to discover the story behind Kentucky’s Bourbon Culture.

Ohio Amish Country : Holmes County

Ever wish you could turn the clock back to a time when life was simpler and the wheels turned a little more slowly? Now you can.

Arches National Park : Utah More than 2,000 sandstone arches dot the 47,000-acre landscape of this national park.

Worth Pondering…

“My favorite thing is to go where I have never been,” wrote photographer Diane Arbus, and so it is with us.

Planning Away

20 RV Road Trip Ideas (Best RV Vacations for Families!)

Are you looking for some fun RV vacation ideas? Want to go on the best RV road trip ever?! 

Perfect! You are in the right spot! 

We recently rented an RV and tried it out! My family loved it! I highly recommend a family RV trip! 

In this post, we are going to list some of the best RV road trips in the USA! From the East Coast to the West Coast and even Alaska, these locations are the best rv trips for families.  Each section will list some fun things to do in the area and convenient places to camp with your RV. 

Let's explore some of the best RV trips with families! 

If you want to save this information for later be sure to pin this to Pinterest

This post may contain affiliate links (Including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you. 

Planning an RV Trip

Planning a RV vacation can be overwhelming.  This post is not going to be a complete post on how to plan a RV trip, but will be focused on helping you create a RV route planner or an RV itinerary. 

There are so many amazing RV routes in the USA. Rving across the country is an unforgettable experience. Traveling in an RV is the best way to Glamp! (meaning enjoy nature but not in a tent!)

Let's get started with some RV road trip planning and then we will list some amazing RV destinations. 

Rent an RV for a RV Road Trip

RVing is awesome! If you have an RV you know exactly what I mean.  If you do not have an RV but are super interested in RVing, I highly recommend renting an RV .

There are a few companies out there that are sort of like Airbnb except they only rent out RV's.  RVShare is one of my favorites.  One thing I like about RVshare is that you have all types of RV's. There are luxury Airstream to standard RV Campers. 

We used them last year and I would use them again and again.  

Once you book an RV , you can start planning your RV vacation.  If you already have an RV then you are ready to start planning! 

Get Your Free USA Road Trip Guide

I created a fun 27-page USA road trip guide.  There are fun ideas for road trips and places to stop in each area.  Some of them are great for RV's and others are better for cars.  

If you would like a FREE copy , I will send you an email! 

1. Hampton Beach New Hampshire RV Vacation

Experience a quintessential New England beach town from your RV! It is one of the best RV trips for families! 

RV Vacation Ideas

Hampton Beach State Park is located along the Atlantic Ocean on the small 30-mile  coastline of New Hampshire . The State Park is known for their on-beach RV park and offers beautiful views of white sand beaches, rocky jetties, and views of Hampton Harbor. 

In addition to stunning scenery, the park has a ton of activities to do, especially for families. There are weekly fireworks, live music, dancing, and talent shows. 

While the beach park is open all year, the RV park is only open from May 26- October 8. The RV park has 28 spots with full campsite hookups. 

Reservations

Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance on the ReserveAmerica site. Reservations will cost $30-50 dollars ($30 for day use only, and $50 for overnight) and will fill up quickly so book well ahead of time to get an RV spot .

Contributed By: Yourguidetowandering.com

2. East Coast RV Road Trip to Williamsburg Virginia

If you want to combine a love of East Coast historical sites and RVing. Traveling in an RV in Virginia is amazing! 

Virginia RV Route

You can start at one of the best East Coast National Parks Shenandoah where you will be able to hike, horseback ride, and visit Luray Caverns.  There are over 33 RV campgrounds in the area. But if you want to make this the best family RV trip head to the Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Luray. 

Next, you can visit Monticello (Thomas Jefferson's Estate) and Richmond as your head to Williamsburg.

There are so many fun things to do in Williamsburg .  You can visit the historic triangle which includes Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. You can also go to Busch Gardens Amusement Park which is one of the most beautiful parks in the country. 

American Heritage RV Park is one of the best places to stay in Williamsburg. 

3. RV Road Trip to South Carolina

Rv road trip  , best rv family trip (fun things to do) , 4. rv road trip to the blue ridge mountains.

As a segment of the large Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Mountains are the perfect spot for an RV vacation in the USA. 

After all, these incredible peaks stretch out for 550 miles from Pennsylvania all the way to Georgia. 

RV Trip Destinations

However if you’re not sure where to park with your RV then you can stop at Spacious Skies Bear Den in North Carolina. 

It sits right near milepost 324.8 of the wonderfully scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and features upwards of 13 miles of hiking trails that are just waiting to be explored. 

Alternatively, you could also try Mount Pisgah Campground since it sits at the highest point of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is located a mere 40-mbutes from Asheville. Sliding Rock is also in the area and a fun local landmark to explore. 

RV Itinerary (Fun Things to Do) 

However, other fun things to do in the Blue Ridge Mountains include hiking segments of the Appalachian Trail, visiting Clingman’s Dome, exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and so much more.

Just don’t leave North Carolina without taking a unique ride aboard the historic Tweetsie Railroad in Boone.”

Contributed By: Southerntrippers.com

5. RV Road Trip to the Everglades Florida

The Everglades National Park is a must-see destination for RV enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable RV road trip vacation in the USA. With its vast expanse of unique wetlands and diverse wildlife, this natural wonder offers an unparalleled outdoor experience.

RV Road Trip

When it comes to RV camping, the Everglades offers a range of options. From tent camping to RV hookups, visitors can choose from various campsites throughout the park. 

Long Pine Key Campground is popular, offering spacious campsites with electric and water hookups. Another option is the Flamingo Campground, which is situated at the park's southern end and offers scenic waterfront views.

Family RV Trip (Fun Things to Do)

Once you've parked your RV, there is a wealth of activities to enjoy in the Everglades. One popular option is to take a guided airboat tour of the wetlands, which offers an up-close look at the park's unique ecosystem and wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds. 

Visitors can also explore the park's hiking trails, rent kayaks or canoes, or enjoy a relaxing picnic by the water's edge.

For those interested in learning more about the Everglades' rich history and culture, several educational opportunities are available. 

The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center offers exhibits and programs that explore the park's natural and cultural heritage, while the Nike Missile Site HM-69 Historic District provides a glimpse into the Cold War-era military history of the region. Shark Valley is another amazing place to check out. 

Contributed By: Guideyourtravel.com

6. Minnesota North Shore Family RV Trip

One of the best RV road-trip vacations is the scenic North Shore in Minnesota. Hugging Lake Superior for nearly 150 miles, you’ll find stunning photo ops along the way. 

RV Road Trip Route 

Start your RV road-trip adventure in beautiful Duluth and drive all the way to Grand Portage located on the Canadian border.

While much of Highway 61 (aka North Shore) is two lanes, this scenic byway in Minnesota is RV-friendly. You’ll find adequate RV parking at most Minnesota North Shore state parks, waysides, and photo-op stops. 

One of the best places for RV vacation camping areas on the North Shore is Temperance River State Park in Tofte, Minnesota. This scenic campground overlooks Lake Superior and is one of only four state parks on the Minnesota North Shore with electrical hookups for RVs.

RV Itinerary (Fun Stops to Make)

A few of the must-see RV road trip stops on Minnesota’s North Shore includes:

• Duluth harbor to watch ships come in (Lake Superior – the world’s largest freshwater lake looks and acts like an ocean)
• Split Rock Lighthouse State Park
• Gooseberry Falls State Park (four easy-to-access waterfalls)
• Lutsen Mountains Gondola Ride
• Black Sand and Pink Pebble Beaches
• Betty’s Pies (RV parking available)

This   local’s guide to Minnesota’s most scenic drive  for the perfect RV road-trip vacation on MN’s North Shore will help you on your way.

Contributed By:  Kmfiswriting.com

7. RV Family Road Trip Michigan Upper Arm

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers wildlife, waterfalls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and charming resort towns.  For RVers, Woodland Park in Grand Marias offers Lakefront sites with views of Lake Superior.  

It is one of the best RV vacations in the USA! 

RV Vacation Route (Fun Stops Along the Way)

Lake Superior Brewing Company is a local favorite for dinner in Grand Marias & is a quick walk from Woodland Park. Grand Marias is famous for being at the dead end of Michigan Highway 77 & is the eastern gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

From Woodland Park, take Highway 58 towards Munising for a scenic day trip with stops at Sable Falls, Grand Sable Dunes, Twelve-mile Beach, & Miner’s Castle.

In Munising, hop on a tour boat to see Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore up close, including waterfalls tumbling into Lake Superior over the cliffs only visible from a boat. On the way back to camp, stop and get some Pasties, a Northern Michigan hand-held meat pie that Yoopers love!

Before leaving Grand Marias, make sure to get out on the beach at night to hunt for Yooperlights , a fluorescent sodalite rock that glows under a black light. 

Contributed By : Wanderwests.com

8. Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado RV Road Trip

If you’re looking for one of the best RV road trip vacation ideas in the US then you can’t beat Rocky Mountain National Park. 

After all, this stunning alpine oasis is situated near Estes Park and features gorgeous mountains and amazing alpine likes that make it the fourth most visited national park in the country. 

RV Vacation Campsites

So, if you’d like to visit with your RV you have a few options available to you. You could head to Moraine Park which offers spots for RVs up to 40-feet long. 

Alternatively, you could stop at Moraine Park Campground with your RV as well. Just be aware that no RV sites within the park offer hookups. Therefore, for full hookups, you’ll need to head to Paradise on the River near Estes Park. 

Also, be sure to make reservations well in advance since this park is extremely popular – particularly in the summer since the snow is gone and all of the trails are open. 

RV Family Trip (Things to Do)

Other than that, enjoy some of the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park , like hiking to Dream Lake , Emerald Lake/Nymph Lake, taking a scenic drive along Trailridge Road, and visit Holzwarth Historic Site.

Contributed By: Foxintheforest.com

9. Wyoming Grand Teton National Park RV Road Trip

Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park is an RVers’ dream, with views of jaw-dropping mountains, wildflowers, and glacial lakes and campsites for every kind of camper.

It is one of the best RV destinations in the US! 

RV Road Trip Campsites

Within the national park itself, you’ll find eight campgrounds with a variety of sites and amenities. In fact, six of these campgrounds are RV-friendly and five of them offer some kind of hook-up options.

For the boondockers out there, there are so many dispersed camping areas around Grand Teton, many of which offer incredible views of the famed jagged mountains—but totally for free!

RV Vacation Destinations (Fun Things to Do!)

Once you’ve found the right campsite, the park is full of outdoor adventures just waiting to be had. For example, consider hiking the Jenny Lake Loop, where you’ll walk along a flat loop along the shores of a glacial lake.

For more of a challenge, try the Delta Lake trail , where you’ll climb up a steep incline to the shores of another alpine lake with robin egg blue water, which sits in the shadow of a cartoonishly jagged mountain peak.

On a hot summer's day, bust out an innertube, paddleboard, or kayak and jump into String Lake. The glacial water is clear, green, and quite chilly—but nothing feels better than cooling down under the hot Wyoming sun, with the epic Tetons towering above.

10. New Mexico RV Road Trip to Colorado

Rv driving routes, 11. scottsdale arizona to the grand canyon, arizona rv route, 12. rv road trip to page arizona, 13. utah family rv road trip hwy 89.

Are you looking for a road trip that combines the beauty of nature with the convenience of having your own vehicle? If so, then an RV trip along Utah’s Highway 89 through some of the most beautiful sections of Utah is just what you need!

RV Road Trip Route

Start at Page Arizona for views of Horseshoe Bend and a dip in Utah’s Lake Powell.  Pass through the town of Kanab where there are tons of hikes and slot canyons and where a 30-minute detour will take you to Zion National Park . 

As you head north, another detour will take you to Cedar Breaks National Monument on your way to e xplore Bryce Canyon National Park .   Drive through the iconic Red Canyon tunnel (you’ll want a picture here), and stop for some hiking and mountain biking in Bryce Canyon and the famous Thunder Mountain trail.

Hiking trails are numerous on this route allowing nature-lovers opportunities galore to see some wildlife or simply take time out and appreciate the picturesque scenery.

RV Camping Sites

Plus, camping spots abound offering any type of outdoor enthusiast room to spread their wings.  The variety of RV-accessible camping is huge with everything from National Parks campgrounds to forest service camping, and several private campgrounds along the way. 

While the route from Page to Manti is only 265 miles, you’ll want to spend at least 5 days to fully appreciate all that the area has to offer.

Contributed By: Utahkidsexplore.com 

14. Las Vegas RV Road Trip

Picture this: a shimmering mirage in the Nevada desert, an oasis of neon lights and world-class entertainment. Yes, we're talking about Las Vegas – but did you know that Sin City is also an incredible RV destination?

Las Vegas RV Vacation Campsites

Las Vegas boasts a variety of hotels and casinos that cater to RV travelers by offering designated parking areas. For instance, Circus Circus Hotel & Casino provides an exclusive RV park called The Circusland RV Park.

Another fantastic option for those that prefer Downtown Las Vegas, Main Street Station RV Park which is specifically designed for RVs up to 50ft provides easy access to the nearby casinos and on-site dining options.

For those seeking a more laid-back vibe while still being within arm's reach of all the action on The Strip, look no further than Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort or Las Vegas KOA at Sam's Town.

Both campgrounds offer top-notch facilities including full hookups, pools and hot tubs, 24-hour security services, and proximity to popular attractions.

Looking to get away from the crowds? Nature lovers will rejoice in knowing that the beautiful Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area   l ies just a short  drive from downtown Las Vegas and also has a campground with RV parking available.

The allure of Las Vegas is undeniable – from the excitement of its casinos to its fabulous shows and restaurants, it's no wonder that thousands of RV enthusiasts flock to this city each year.

Contributed By: ThreedaysinVegas.com

15. San Diego Family RV Trip

San Diego is one of the best places for a family RV trip! 

If you're traveling with an RV, it can be hard to find a safe place to park it. In the San Diego area, there are a couple of excellent places that actually cater to RV road trip parking, primarily San Elijo State Beach Campground and Carlsbad State Beach Campground.

Both of these areas have a little over a hundred large campsites available that are perfect for fitting just about any size of RV!  In addition, both campgrounds are located literally steps away from the beach.

RV Vacation Activities

This makes the area ideal for those keen on spending their days surfing, swimming, or simply sunbathing on the beach and enjoying the gorgeous surroundings!

And after a long day at the beach, you can explore the local food scene with some delicious tacos, burritos, and frozen treats!

So, if you're looking to get a bit of beach camping in and fill your belly with amazing food, head on over to sunny San Diego!

16. Big Sur California

Big Sur, California is one of the most amazing places for an RV road trip. This epic, winding stretch of Highway 1 spans from San Simeon up to Carmel, and includes waterfalls, stunning vistas, and dramatic coastlines. 

RV Itinerary (Stops to Make)

One of the best things to do in Big Sur is to sit back, and cruise along Highway 1, stopping at a few amazing viewpoints along the way like McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge.

The hiking in Big Sur is also excellent- a few must do’s are the hike to the Salmon Creek Waterfall and the Big Sur River Gorge Trail.

Big Sur is also lined with gorgeous beaches, like the large, horseshoe-shaped Sand Dollar Beach and Pfeiffer Beach , with its stunning rock formations. 

It’s also very easy to find a place to park your RV in Big Sur. Two of the best options for parking your RV in Big Sur are Fernwood Campground and Resort, and Big Sur Campground and Cabins.

Contributed By : Gathering Waves

17. Colombia River Gorge RV Vacation Ideas

Oregon is on the top of many RVers list and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area is one of the reasons. This 80-mile stretch passes numerous waterfalls, hiking trails, scenic viewpoints and cute towns with great dining and drinking options.

Best RV Road Trip Routes

Note of caution: In some places the historic highway is twisty and narrow and may not be suitable for 5 th wheels or larger RVs. Additionally, this area is known for windsurfing, so high-profile vehicles should look at the wind forecast.

Start from Portland and drive Interstate 84 to Troutdale and follow the History Highway signs. Your first stop will be The Portland Women’s Forum Scenic Viewpoint, where you’ll be perched high to get a bird's eye view of the river and gorge below.  Continue down to Crown Point lookout and explore the historic structure and exhibits.

RV Vacation (Stops to Make)

No trip to the Columbia River would be complete without a stop at Multnomah Falls, Oregon’s tallest waterfall and most visited tourist attraction. Take the easy 2.2-mile hike to the top of the falls and reward yourself with an ice cream cone at the historic lodge.

Other great hikes in the gorge include Latourell (easy 2.3 miles) and Horsetail Falls (easy 2.7 miles) where you can actually hike under the waterfall.

More Stops to Make

• Have lunch and shop the cute main street in Hood River. Drive the “Fruit Loop” and visit the various farm stands along way.
• Tour the Bonneville Dam, visit the hatchery and watch huge 1010-foot-long sturgeons, check out the visitor center, and watch salmon swim up the fish ladders.
• Try your hand and windsurfing or kiteboarding—or simply pack a picnic and watch others zip back and forth across the river.
•  Take a two-hour cruise on the historic Sternwheeler.

The best first come first serve campsites are located at the Port of Cascade Locks Marine Park 16 sites, 12 with power and water.

If that’s full, try Cascade Locks KOA .  Just be mindful that the trains run through, so bring earplugs. You’ll be within walking distance of all Cascade Locks has to offer including Thunder Island Brewing and Bridgeside Restaurant (decent food, amazing views.)

The Colombia River Gorge is one of the best RV road trips in the US! 

Contributed By: Solowomenrv.com

18. Olympic National Park RV Trip

Olympic National Park is a giant national park with so much to offer. In a couple of days, you can see a temperate rainforest, a stunning mountain range, and the rugged O lympic National Park coast. 

It is one of the best RV trips out West! 

Since there are different areas in the park there are several different campgrounds to consider.

In the Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent area, consider Fairholme Campground near Lake Crescent. This would be an excellent base to spend time on the lake or get up to hike in Hurricane Ridge.

The Heart O’ the Hills Campground has an excellent location and RV spots. But, it’s a first come first served campground which can be stressful.

Log Cabin Resort is one of the only campgrounds in the park with shower access if that’s something you need.

In the Hoh Rainforest, your best bet is easily the Hoh campground. You can reserve your spot online. From your campsite, you can head to the visitor center to enjoy some of the easy hikes through the rainforest.

Along the coast, you’ll want to look into South Beach Campground. You can camp right on the beach. The views are incredible. But, it’s first come first serve so plan accordingly. Staying here is worth the effort!

Contributed By: Celiactravelpack.com

19. RV Road Trip to Mount Rainer

Visiting Mount Ranier is a paradise for nature lovers with its snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers. For those seeking adventure, Mount Rainier offers a range of activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.  

RV Road Trip (Things to Do)

One of the best things to do while RV road-tripping around Mount Rainier is to explore the park's hiking trails. 

RV Trip Campsites

20. alaska kenai fjords rv road trip.

The Kenai Peninsula in Alaska is a perfect RV road trip destination, especially if you choose Seward or Homer Spit as your base, where there are RV parks with ocean views.

RV Vacation Campsite

One of the best places for an RV is Homer Spit Campground, which is usually open from early May through the first week of September. From the campground, you have a fantastic view of Kachemak Bay and the glacier tongues that flow into the ocean.

There are toilets, showers, drinking water, a dump station, and fire pits. Some sites have electricity.

RV Family Trip  (Things to Do)

But most importantly,  Homer Spit offers many outdoor activities . You can go halibut fishing because this is the halibut capital of the world. And after such a trip, you'll have delicious fresh fish for your stay.

You can book a wildlife cruise in Katechemak Bay to see seals, whales, and puffins or rent a kayak. You can also walk along the beach or go hiking in the area. There are also many bald eagles here, which you can watch in the morning on the beach.

You can take a bear-watching trip from Homer to Katmai National Park or Lake Clark National Park. Both are only accessible by plane or boat as no road access exists.

Contributed By: Thevanescape.com

Best RV Road Trips in the USA

Are you ready for an incredible RV vacation? All of these RV Road trip ideas are perfect to create an RV itinerary! 

There are so many amazing places to see in the United States! I know you will have a blast! Good luck picking the best family RV road trip destinations! 

Facebook Group

If you have any questions about upcoming trips, come join me in my private   Facebook Group .    This group is a place where you can ask any question about your upcoming trip and help others plan their trips.  It is also a place where I put travel deals.

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18 Comments

I love this list of 20 RV road trip ideas! Ever since I was a kid, I have wanted to go on an RV road trip adventure….fast forward to now and I still haven’t made it happen! This list is giving me some great ideas though, and I may have to finally start planning an epic roadtrip. I want to start with Route 66 and then would eventually want to drive up the Pacific Coast for another trip and visit my old haunts in the Pacific Northwest….the Columbia River Gorge was one of my favorite places when I lived in Portland!

That would be an epic road trip!

So many RV road trips to plan — so little time. I love all your routes, they will make great family memories.

That is really what it is about!

These are all great ideas for RV trips. We do a lot of road trips; we’re just missing the RV–lol. We talk about it sometimes, and we had a pop-up camper once. Maybe getting an RV will be our retirement hobby.

I would suggust renting one to make sure you like it!

So many stunning scenic drives in the US! Perfect for summer RV road trips!

So many great options!

We love going on road trips. Currently we car camp our way. We have been considering changing to RV Road Trips.

We would do it again!

I have always wanted an RV. I just love the thought of being able to travel anywhere, while still having some home comforts like a bed, a TV and a usable toilet/kitchen! But with the fuel prices lately, it’s becoming a pipe dream!

It is pretty awesome! My kids loved being buckeled at the table instead of traditional seats!

Such a great list of rv road trip vacation routes! As a child, I always enjoyed rving. I haven’t been able to do so since I’ve been an adult but am always bringing up the idea to my husband. He’s not a camper and would prefer a hotel room any day. I would love to go rving to Big Sur or Olympic National Park.

Those would be beautiful areas!

What a great RV road trip list of ideas. We love adventures in our RV! Thank you for sharing these!

I am ready to hit the road!

I have been to several of these destinations and I think they would be perfect for an RV road trip!

There are some great choices!

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Journey With Confidence

14 RV Travel Tips From Seasoned RVers

• RV Lifestyle

These RV travel tips will improve your camping experience. Photo via Shutterstock

Do You Know About These RV Travel Tips From Seasoned RVers?

If you’re new to RVing, these RV travel tips will make a huge difference in your camping experience. If you’re a seasoned RVer, you may have already learned some of these things the hard way, but there may be some tips you had not yet considered.

1. Plan ahead

It is always less stressful when you have a plan and you are executing it.  When we first started RVing, the only tools we had were large paper maps, a notebook, and the Woodall’s Campground Directory. These were crude and ineffective trip planning tools, but it was all we had. 

Now you can use RV LIFE Trip Wizard , RV LIFE Campgrounds , and the RV LIFE App with RV-Safe GPS  to help you plan everything from how far you can travel comfortably in one day, to where to get gas, how to find RV camping resources that are part of your membership clubs, and what route to take to avoid unsafe roadways.

2. Shorten your travel distance to a comfortable drive

There was a time, many years ago, when we would drive our 33’ motorhome for 12 hours straight. We were weekend warriors then and were only able to cobble together a few extra days for a bit longer trip on rare occasions.  

When the 4 th of July fell on a Wednesday, we celebrated because we generally would expand that into a 5-day weekend. On those occasions we’d try to get as far away as possible, but that meant we were driving long distances over many consecutive hours. 

Fortunately, I was younger then and I found driving the RV to be about as relaxing as driving a car, but looking back on it now, I have to admit, there were many times I should not have done that because it just wasn’t safe.

Everyone has their own threshold of driving tolerance. For some who can get on the road early, it may be 400 miles. For others, it may only be 200 miles or maybe you want to limit your day by drive time, not miles.

RV LIFE Trip Wizard lets you do just that.  You can plan your drive time by distance or hours and set distance rings radiating out from your current campsite, so you know about where you’ll be at the end of any travel day.  You can download the maps and info so even if you’re high in the mountains with no cell service you still have your trip information. 

Regardless of what your personal preferences are, you should limit the time you spend behind the wheel on travel days.

3. Get your chores done early to get an earlier start

When you know you have a travel day coming up, get as many of your chores done ahead of time as you can. Get the laundry washed, folded and put away, the refrigerator stocked up, boil some eggs, make your sandwiches, get your truck gassed up before you hook-up to the trailer, and pick-up and stow the gear around your campsite, so on travel days you can get as early of a start as possible.

4. Watch the weather

One of our top RV travel tips is to watch the weather on your travel days. If the temperature plummets and the roads are icy or frosty, you may need to alter your travel plans. 

Don’t take chances on snowy, icy, or frosty roads. It’s hard enough to drive a car in these conditions, but having the extra weight of an RV can make those conditions extremely dangerous. 

Don’t be caught off-guard. Even heavy rain and wind can be dangerous when driving an RV or pulling one.  Get several good weather apps and study each one to see which one most reliably predicts the weather wherever you are.  

One app may say the winds will be mild while two other apps report high wind warnings.  After using these apps for some time, you’ll get a sense of which ones are typically more accurate.

One of our top RV travel tips: Watch the weather! It can sneak up on you. This was a bright sunny day, 20 minutes before this storm overran the RV park in Eastern Oregon. Photo by P. Dent

5. Stay south of the snow zone

By planning your travels using RV LIFE’s RV LIFE Trip Wizard , you can plan to be south of the snow zone year-round.  If you’re a full-time RVer, then being a snowbird (going south in the winter and north in the summer) makes sense.  You may want to spend your summers up north to enjoy the milder temperatures and lovely places to camp, but even birds know when it’s time to head south.

Don’t wait too long and get caught in snowy conditions. It makes it much harder to travel after the weather turns cold and it can be hazardous and uncomfortable to be in an RV in extremely cold weather.  

6. Know when to postpone your travel plans

Driving an RV or pulling a trailer or 5 th wheel in extremely windy conditions can be both stressful and dangerous. In our travels, we have seen several rigs on their side because of the wind. 

Recently, a truck pulling a trailer was forced off the side of a bridge over a 200-foot canyon on I-84 in Idaho. The trailer was lying on its side near the edge but still on the bridge. The truck and its occupants were completely off the bridge and were dangling precariously with only the safety chain between the truck and trailer holding them there. 

The couple and their two dogs were successfully rescued after the longest hour of their lives, as they dangled helplessly hundreds of feet above the river and wondered if the safety chain would hold. This accident was the result of the strong winds blowing across the bridge. 

I’ve driven our motorhome in heavy winds and frankly it’s exhausting. It feels like you’re continually fighting to maintain lane control and every overpass and passing truck creates more challenges.  If you can postpone your travel plans and let the heavy winds blow on by, I’d recommend it.  At the very least, if you must drive in strong winds, think about shortening your trip, and at the very least….slow down.

7. Know your RV dimensions

The new online apps, especially the ones from RV LIFE , have taken most of the stress out of planning, navigating, and locating suitable stopping points in your journey. Now with RV-Safe GPS , your specific RV dimensions are calculated into your route planning. You get turn-by-turn real time navigational information which will get you exactly where you want to go. 

If you want to experience the frustration of just using paper maps, turn all your apps off and just reference whatever paper maps you happen to have in your rig. You’ll quickly discover that paper maps don’t have all the roads, just the major roads, and figuring out what exit to take is more of a guessing game than a certainty. 

I’ve done it both ways, and frankly I can’t figure out how we ever got to our destination before the creation of RV LIFE Trip Wizard and the RV LIFE App . These aren’t just handy in an RV, they are a necessity.

8. Read campground reviews

The same thing can be said for RV LIFE Campgrounds . This RV LIFE website goes hand in hand with RV LIFE Trip Wizard .  You can see all the campgrounds along your route near your next stopping point, which is calculated by either distance or drive time.  

You can even sort these parks by your preference for memberships, amenities, or park types, etc. Then by referencing the integrated RV LIFE Campgrounds, you can see what other RVers have experienced in these campgrounds.  Before all this was available, we used the big Woodall’s Campground Directory as our only guide to finding a campground in an unfamiliar location. 

The problem was the ads were about ½” high and 3” long.  All that could be listed was the name, address, and phone number for the campground.  But back then, cell phone hadn’t yet been invented, so calling a campground from the road while you were driving to that stopping point was not practical. 

We would pick a likely campground based on nothing more than its name, try to find it by using our paper map, which often turned into a frustrating exchange between the navigator and the driver.  When we finally arrived at a campground, we learned quickly to park the motorhome on the outside of the campground and walk into (and sometimes through) the park to see if our 33’ motorhome would fit and if there was room enough to turn around without removing the toad. 

Now with RV LIFE Campgrounds , you can read all about the park, amenities, interior roads, any surprises on the road as you approach the park, and so much more. With one-touch dialing on your cell phone, you can call ahead and reserve a space, and then navigate right to the park without any battles between the navigator and the driver.

9. Travel in the daylight

This one RV travel tip will eliminate so much stress on travel days and if you’ll make it a habit, you’ll also be much safer as you travel. Just make it a rule: Always drive in the daylight.  It’s easier, safer, and more enjoyable. 

If you need to cover more distance, then leave earlier.  Driving in the daylight will greatly reduce the likelihood that you’ll hit an animal in the roadway, or encounter a drunk in your lane. If you have trouble with your rig and you’re broken down on the side of the road, it’s much safer in the daylight, and you’re more likely to find the help you need quicker during business hours.

We used to drive long into the night, and I am amazed that we did not get in wreck doing so. Limited visibility, animals in the road, tired distracted drivers, and fatigue, all add up to an accident waiting to happen. 

Do yourself and your family a favor and make the commitment to drive your RV only during daylight hours. When you arrive at your destination, it’s easier to navigate within the park and it’s easier to set-up your rig if you can see.

10. Take breaks from driving

Another travel tip many seasoned RVers employ is to take breaks often during your drive time.  Just a 10-minute break to stretch your legs, go to the restroom, and get a snack, will make the drive time more relaxing.  

Additionally, I would advise you to eat a light lunch. Don’t skip it.  The extra fuel will keep you alert, but don’t eat a large heavy lunch because the blood in your body will flow more to your stomach than your brain and that can make you a little groggy. Eat a wholesome light lunch to be as alert as possible.

11. Have a Plan B

Use RV LIFE Trip Wizard to plan your trip, but don’t be too rigid.  Have a Plan B.  Maybe you experience engine trouble or can’t get all the way to your desired destination before sunset. Maybe you encounter strong winds and need to tuck in somewhere to wait it out.  By being flexible and having a Plan B, you will reduce your travel stress.

Everything doesn’t always work out the way you thought it would, and knowing that you’re flexible enough to adapt to whatever challenge you confront will help you enjoy your journey.

12. Keep vehicles in excellent repair

This seems obvious but when you follow RVers on Instagram or Facebook, you’re constantly reading about people who have some difficulty with their rigs, from blown-out tires , to worn-out wheel bearings, to broken hoses, and onboard fires. The more you invest in preventative maintenance , the better off you’ll be out on the highway. 

Don’t ignore the basics of oil changes, brake jobs, battery replacement, and certainly get all those malfunctions that just pop up fixed as quickly as possible. The more confidence you have in your vehicles, the less stress you’ll feel on the road.

This goes for both the vehicle you drive and the vehicles you tow. Keep track of all your RV and vehicle maintenance with an online tool like RV LIFE Maintenance , which also sends timely reminders when important maintenance is due.

13. Keep distractions (pets/kids/radio) under control

Driving requires a high degree of attention, but driving an RV or pulling one requires even more attention, so you need to control the internal distractions in order to focus on your driving. Pets wandering around inside your motorhome or kids crying or fighting with one another can be very distracting. Even the radio pulls your attention from outside to inside your vehicle and all of that can diminish your perception of dangerous conditions that are developing in the traffic flow. 

If you travel with pets, confine them. If you have children, give them things to keep them busy, and tune the radio to something that you can relegate to a less active level of attention. 

There’s a time and place for pets and kids to play, but not while you’re driving. Keep distractions to a minimum. Photo by P. Dent

14. Don’t drive drunk or drowsy

Some people think a little alcohol won’t affect them. Many think RV driving on pharmaceutical drugs will be okay. But that is not always true. Any amount of alcohol will alter your vision. Some prescription drugs are as bad as illegal narcotics. All of them can slow your reaction time and dull your perception. Both can render you unfit for driving. 

If you need prescription drugs, can someone else in your party do the driving? Or can you drive for a short time before taking your drugs? Can your doctor prescribe a drug that is safe for travel days?

Conclusion 

All these RV travel tips may seem obvious, but remember to follow these simple guidelines faithfully. If you compromise on drive time, or drive after dark on rare occasions, or let the dogs bark and bounce around while you’re driving, you may be putting yourself and everyone else in danger.

For more RV travel tips, check out this video from EnjoyTheJourney.Life :

The many RV forums online are also full of useful RV travel tips. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and much more. There are also RV-specific forums such as Air Forums , Jayco Owners , and Forest River Forums .

Travels with Ted

10 Absolute Best Summer RV Destinations

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclaimer here.

Winter RV trips are limited to a few warm destinations, mainly in Florida , Arizona and Texas . However, the widespread hot summer weather brings endless options for RV travelers.

After over six years on the road, we’ve found some amazing destinations that are perfect for summer vacations. In this article, we share the 10 best summer RV destinations that offer pleasant weather, exciting activities and great campgrounds.

• 1 Banff and Jasper National Parks
• 2 Denver, Colorado
• 3 Florida Keys
• 4 Mammoth Cave National Park
• 5 Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
• 6 Missoula, Montana
• 7 North Carolina’s Outer Banks
• 8 Redwood National and State Parks
• 9 Troutdale, Oregon
• 10 Fayetteville, West Virginia

Banff and Jasper National Parks

The first mistake many travelers make when selecting the best summer RV destinations is limiting themselves to the United States. Banff and Jasper National Parks in Canada offer some of the most breathtaking scenery and impressive hiking in the world.

Seeing the bright blue waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are experiences that I will treasure for a lifetime. RVers can book a full hookup campsite at Banff’s Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court.

Jasper National Park also has several campgrounds that can accommodate RVs, including the Wabasso Campground which offers full hookups.

See our complete guide to RV travel in Canada for more information on the logistics of crossing the border and traveling in a foreign country.

Denver, Colorado

Typically cities don’t pop-up on lists of the best summer RV destinations, but that is an oversight. Camping near a city provides the best of both worlds. RVers can enjoy the natural Colorado beauty, while also taking advantage of all the cultural activities offered in Denver.

I would recommend camping just outside of the city at Bear Creek Lake Park . The park is only a 30 minute drive to downtown but offers a peaceful atmosphere with spacious sites.

Campers are also just a short drive from the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater where they can enjoy awesome outdoor summer concerts.

The central location allows RVers to drive west for a day trip into the mountains or head east into the city to visit restaurants, museums or attend a Colorado Rockies games.

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are typically thought of as a winter destination, but hear me out. Visiting popular winter RV destinations in the summer has many benefits, including less crowds and more campsite availability.

When making a reservation in the off-season you are more likely to snag one of the prime, waterfront campsites that are all but impossible to reserve in the winter. Don’t limit your Florida Keys vacation to one campground, make multiple reservations and explore the whole area.

The best Keys RV campgrounds include Bahia Honda State Park and Key West’s El Mar RV Resort . Thousand Trails members can stay at Fiesta Key and Sunshine Key RV Resorts for free. Since it will be hot it the summer, the best activities will be swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.

Mammoth Cave National Park

One of the most underestimated national parks, Mammoth Cave has tons of actives for families visiting in the summer. In addition to tours of it’s eponymous cave, the national park offers forested hiking trails, horse back riding, biking trails and kayaking trips down the Green River.

Average high temperatures are in the high 80s throughout the summer, but the wooded park provides plenty of shade. There are several RV camping options inside and outside the park. See our guide to camping at Mammoth Cave for all of the options.

As an added bonus, Mammoth Cave is also one of the few national parks that is dog friendly .

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (affectionately referred to as The U.P.) is a beautiful natural playground for RV campers. Summer is the best time to visit as it is the only season when you can count on warm, pleasant weather.

A road trip around The U.P. made our list of the 10 best RV road trips in America . For RV camping, Straits State Park is a great place to start and end your U.P. road trip. Located right after the bridge onto the Upper Peninsula, the park has two campgrounds with electric hook-ups.

From this location, you can easily access the ferry to car-free Mackinac Island. Also consider staying at Indian Lake State Park which offers lake front campsites, and is close to the Big Spring  ( Kitch-iti-kipi ) . The natural spring has crystal clear blue water and is a must visit attraction on the U.P.

Missoula, Montana

Personally, Missoula is my favorite summer RV destination! Mild weather, incredible outdoor adventures and an adorable town all combine to make it an optimal place to spend the summer.

RVers should book a space at Jim and Mary’s RV Park , which offers some of the most beautifully landscaped campsites in the country. Take a day trip to the National Bison Range for a chance to spot Montana wildlife including bison, elk, bighorn sheep and bears.

Also, visit downtown Missoula for great bars and restaurants, and head to the Riverfront Walking Trail to watch kayakers try to ride Brennan’s Wave. After exploring Missoula, RVers can drive a few hours north to visit Glacier National Park during its peak season.

North Carolina’s Outer Banks

Who knew you could travel to the islands in your RV? The Outer Banks are barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that are easily accessed in an RV via bridges. For ocean front camping, stay at the Cape Hatteras / Outer Banks KOA in Rodanthe, North Carolina.

The campground offers campsites just behind the sand dunes, as well as resort amenities including a pool with water slides, an outdoor cinema and golf cart rentals. Outside the KOA, campers should visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Wright Brothers National Memorial.

Or just relax on the beach and enjoy the perfect summer scenery. Make sure to purchase a KOA Rewards membership for a discount on the nightly rate.

Redwood National and State Parks

On the opposite coast from the Outer Banks, RVers can find another ideal summer RV destination in the Redwood forests. The connected national and state parks offer scenic drives, impressive hikes and Pacific coast beaches.

Other fun summer activities in the parks include looking for sea life in the tide pools along the shoreline and taking a kayak tour down the Smith River. RV travelers can stay in the parks’ campgrounds or at the nearby Elk Country RV Resort and Campground , which is often visited by a local herd of Roosevelt Elk.

With the average highs in the low 70s in June and the low 80s in July and August, the Redwood region has great weather for campers who can’t stand the heat. If you travel with a dog, check out our complete guide to dog friendly activities in the Redwood parks .

Troutdale, Oregon

Troutdale is conveniently located between two amazing summer destinations. To the west, is Portland which offers cool restaurants and bars, unique museums and other urban amenities. To the east is the Columbia River Gorge, which offers numerous awe-inspiring waterfalls, great hiking trails and stunning river views.

In Troutdale, vacationers should stay at the Sandy Riverfront RV Resort . The RV park offers direct access to swimming in the Sandy River which is a incredible respite from the summer heat. Just across the street from the RV resort, is the Sugarpine Drive-In where campers can cool off with a scoop of ice cream or an icy wine slushie.

Fayetteville, West Virginia

West Virginia is another underrated summer RV destination. The town of Fayetteville, in particular, is a great place for RVers looking for outdoor adventures. One of the biggest attractions in the area is America’s newest national park, New River Gorge.

The national park offers guided whitewater rafting trips, hiking and scenic drives. Whitewater rafting trips run on both the New and Gauley rivers during the summer season, and Adventures on the Gorge offers rafting trips ranging from calm floats to wild rides.

Stay at Riftrafters Campground , which may sound rustic, but is actually a beautiful campground with basic amenities.

No matter where you choose to travel, an RV road trip is the summer vacation of a lifetime. Just, make sure to stock up on important RV supplies before hitting the road!

If you are headed to a hot-weather destination this summer, read our guide to keeping your RV cool inside.

Where is your family headed this summer? Share your planned summer RV destination in the comments below.

Christina Pate is a seasoned full-time RVer who, along with her husband Justin, has journeyed across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Drawing from her extensive travels, RV repairs and RV renovations, she founded Travels with Ted to guide and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts. Christina is also the co-author of The Owner’s Guide to RV Maintenance and the creator of My RV Log Book .

East Coast RV Trip Itinerary – 16 Awesome Stops To Make

The east coast is an incredible place to explore, especially when you have the freedom to roam in an RV. This east coast RV trip itinerary will help you discover the very best places to see and things to do as you travel along the coast in your RV.

This post is brought to you by   Good Sam Parks.

Whether you need to know what to do on your east coast RV trips, where to eat, or where to stay, we have you covered in the plan below!

Don’t forget to get your Good Sam RV Roadside Assistance and Good Sam TravelAssist before heading out. If you don’t have an RV yet be sure to check out Good Sam Rentals to find the perfect RV to take on your trip!

Table of Contents

Maps Of Trip

Here are 2 maps of the trip. The 1st one is the 1st half of the trip with a link to the interactive Google Map. The 2nd is the 2nd half of the trip with a link to that interactive Google Map. You would be covering a lot of miles if you did this whole trip (we did almost this exact trip last fall – so it is doable) at one time. Or you could break it into multiple trips.

Interactive Google Map link: https://goo.gl/maps/iAkeKusX8GrX2XVY8

Here is the 2nd half of the trip:

Interactive Google Map link: https://goo.gl/maps/TmhSeyyUZDjYEmsU7

There are so many great family and romantic getaways in the Northeast !! Let’s do this!!

Stowe, VT 

Stowe is a gorgeous place that is perfect for outdoorsy folks. Nestled amongst the trees, you’ll find great hiking, biking, and skiing. Other things to do in the area include exploring quaint towns, checking out museums, eating yummy cheese and maple syrup, enjoying craft brews, and more. 

Why Stop Here?

• Cruise Highway 108
• Moss Glen Falls Hike
• Emily’s Covered Bridge
• Stowe Recreation Path
• Bingham Falls
• Mount Mansfield
• Cabot Cheese Store
• Cold Hollow Cider Press
• Smugglers’ Notch State Park
• Stowe’s Main Street
• Stowe Mountain Resort
• Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
• Laughing Moon Chocolates

Where to Eat

The Backyard  — In the perfect location right by Main Street, The Backyard serves up amazing drinks and delicious food. They even have some vegetarian options!

Where to Stay

Lone Pine Campsites  — A lovely park that puts you right in the middle of Vermont’s incredible greenery, Lone Pine Campsites features full hookups, Wi-Fi, a pool, a playground, and plenty of fun family activities to keep everyone happy. 

Learn more about visiting Stowe here:  20 Fun Things to do in Stowe, Vermont

Lincoln, NH 

Want to put more beautiful places into your east coast RV trip itinerary? Lincoln, New Hampshire is the perfect place for you. This spot features 23 golf courses, an old-fashioned train ride (Hobo Railroad), covered bridges, beautiful mountain views, and an incredible gorge. 

This place is beautiful any time of year but is especially wonderful when the fall foliage appears. The winter activities here are pretty great as well!

• The Flume Gorge
• Cannon Mountain
• Kancamagus Highway
• Golf Courses
• Hobo Railroad
• White Mountain National Forest
• Alpine Adventures
• Franconia Notch State Park
• Seven Birches Winery
• Ice Castles
• Ski Resorts
• Sledventures

The Common Man  — This delicious eatery serves up classic American foods with its own flair. The Nantucket Pie is incredible, and the crab cakes are fantastic. We also really loved the macaroni and cheese made here. 

Crazy Horse Family Campground  — This super fun and family-friendly campground is found about 30 minutes from Lincoln in the town of Littleton. Guests love the engaged and helpful staff and the planned family activities. Everything is well-maintained, and the full-hookup sites ensure you’re comfortable during your stay. 

Learn more about visiting Lincoln here:  14 Best Things to do in Lincoln New Hampshire

Acadia National Park 

No east coast road trip RV itinerary is complete without a stop in Acadia National Park . Set on the Atlantic Ocean, this park boasts beautiful scenery, excellent bike paths, incredible sunsets, lovely lighthouses, and some super fun hikes. 

Our recommendation? Stay in or near Bar Harbor for easy access to all this amazing park has to offer. 

• Schoodic Institute and Ranger Station
• Schoodic Point
• Little Moose Island⁠⁠
• Tidal Falls
• Cadillac Mountain
• Precipices Trail
• Thunder Hole 
• Beehive Trail
• Jordan Pondhouse
• Jordan Pond Trail
• Echo Lake Beach
• Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
• Wonderland Trail
• LuLu Lobster Boat Tour

The Happy Clam Shack  — You can’t go to Acadia without having some seafood, and The Happy Clam Shack is the place to go for that. The lobster bisque is especially good, and you really can’t beat the experience of eating lobster!

Timberland Acres RV Park  — Stay just minutes from Bar Harbor and Acadia when you park your RV at Timberland Acres RV Park. This lovely park offers full hookups and plenty of amenities such as a pool, rec hall, game room, and playground, meaning you’ll have a blast even when you aren’t exploring the national park. 

Learn more about visiting Acadia National Park here:  Acadia National Park Itinerary

Boston is a popular destination for a reason. This beautiful historic city has a lot to offer. Whether you prefer theme park fun, historic sites, hidden Boston or just wandering the city and picking up a bite to eat, you’re sure to have a good time exploring Boston. 

• Freedom Trail
• Faneuil Hall Marketplace
• Boston Common
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
• New England Aquarium
• Boston Museum of Science
• Boston Museum of Fine Arts 
• Fenway Park
• Boston Children’s Museum
• Harvard Art Museums
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
• The Paul Revere House
• Boston Harbor Islands State Park
• USS Constitution Museum
• Adams National Historical Park

Cusser’s Roast Beef and Seafood  — Roast beef sandwiches and lobster rolls are the name of the game at this favorite restaurant. The roast beef sandwiches are particularly good, and their relatively low price tag makes them even more tempting!

Circle CG Farm Campground  — Located near Cape Cod, Boston,  and  Providence, this campground couldn’t be in a better location. Campers love the peaceful vibe here, and the full hookup sites, Wi-Fi, pool, mini-golf, and nature trails make this an excellent place to stay. 

If you stay here be sure to check out this post: Things To Do On Cape Cod on a Cape Cod vacation ! And all of the best Cape Cod restaurants !

Another fun stop to check out when you are in this area is Nantucket! Check out this awesome 3 Day Nantucket Itinerary.

If you are going around Halloween be sure to check out these to Spooky East Coast Fall Family Getaways!

Newport, RI

Next on our list: Newport, Rhode Island. This adorable east coast town is nicknamed City by the Sea, and the name isn’t the only thing that’s charming about the place. Not only will you find plenty of gorgeous mansions and adorable shops here, but you’ll also get to take in some gorgeous scenery and wonderful attractions.

• Bowens Wharf
• Ocean Drive
• Newport Mansions
• International Tennis Hall of Fame
• The Cliff Walk
• Redwood Library and Athenaeum
• Fort Adams State Park
• Touro Synagogue 
• Brenton Point State Park
• Museum of Newport History
• National Museum of American Illustration 
• Audrain Automobile Museum 
• Rough Point Museum
• Rail Explorers

Corner Cafe  — If breakfast is your jam, you’re going to love the amazing all-day breakfast menu at Corner Cafe. This adorable cafe does an excellent job with all your breakfast favorites. That said, they also have a pretty good selection of specialty pizzas!

Timber Creek RV Resort  — This resort is located about 40 minutes from town. That said, we think it’s worth the drive for the peace and quiet you receive in return. This park has an onsite store, clean restrooms with showers, a swimming pool, a playground, and sports courts. What more could you want?

Learn more about visiting Newport here:  19 Best Things to Do in Newport, RI

Mystic, CT 

If we had to choose one word to describe Mystic, it would have to be “ picturesque .” This seafaring town looks just like something you’d find on a postcard, and we adore it. Ships and water views aren’t hard to come by when in Mystic, and the attractions here are among the best in New England. This is especially true of the Mystic Aquarium (where you can meet beluga whales) and the Mystic Seaport Museum (where you can step back in time).

• Mystic Seaport Museum
• Mystic Aquarium
• Downtown Mystic
• Mystic River Bascule Bridge 
• Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra
• Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
• Denison Homestead
• Barley Head Brewery
• Mystic River Watersports
• Bluff Point State Park
• Seaside Shadows
• Mystic Boat Adventures 
• Argia Sailing Ship Tours

Friar Tuck’s Tavern  — Looking for a place to get a great beer and enjoy a lively atmosphere? Friar Tuck’s is the place for you. Here, you can eat classic Irish, English, and American dishes, wash it down with a craft beer, and sometimes even enjoy some live music!

Hidden Acres Family Campground  — Hidden Acres Family Campground is located about 30 minutes outside of Mystic. It is an absolute gem, and thanks to amenities such as a pool, fishing area, game room, and pickleball court, it is hugely popular with camping families. You’re sure to appreciate the onsite store, clean restrooms, and the option of full hookups. 

Learn more about visiting Mystic, CT here:  21 Best Things to Do in Mystic, CT

New York City, NY

Of course, you have to go into NYC on east coast RV trips. This is known as the “greatest city in the world” for a reason. The hustle and bustle of this place is unlike anything we’ve ever experienced, and the fact that there are so many options of things to see and do means the whole family will be happy while there. 

If you can come in fall and explore more of the state of New York so you can see the amazing New York fall foliage .

• Ellis Island
• Statue of Liberty
• Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Brooklyn Heights Promenade
• Central Park
• 5th Avenue Shopping
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Rockefeller Center
• Times Square
• Broadway Shows
• 9/11 Memorial
• Wall Street and the NYSE
• Little Italy

Juliana’s Pizza  — Need to get your New York pizza fix while you’re in the city? Head to Juliana’s. This place is owned by the legendary Patsy Grimaldi of Grimaldi’s Pizza, and you can definitely tell!

Black Bear Campground  — Okay, so technically this campground is about an hour and a half away from NYC. That said, there is very little camping right outside of the city, and this is a great pick for day tripping to see the sights. The heated pool, game room, and playground keep the kids busy, and parents are happy to have Wi-Fi and full hookups. Of course, everyone loves the opportunity to fish and the many sports courts. 

Learn more about visiting New York City here:  Visiting New York City with Kids

If you are a kayaking fan check out this great post about kayaking in New York State .

Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia might not be as big and bustling as New York City, but it is still an important stop on any east coast trip. Not only does this city have historical significance, but it also has a huge number of amazing museums and some of the best food in the country. It really must be experienced to be appreciated. 

• Independence Hall
• Liberty Bell
• President’s Mansion
• Constitution Center
• The Museum of the American Revolution
• The Franklin Institute of Science
• The Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Spruce Street Harbor Park
• Eastern State Penitentiary
• Elfreth’s Alley

Reading Terminal Market  — If you love food, this place might just be a little slice of heaven for you. Here, you can check out rows upon rows of food stands and enjoy favorites such as the Philadelphia soft pretzel, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, and of course, water ice. 

Echo Farms RV Resort – This park is not close to Philadelphia but it can be an option if you want to stay at a park in between Philadelphia and New Jersey. The park is actually located in New Jersey.

Cape May, NJ 

Some people may argue that Atlantic City is the place to be in New Jersey, but we happen to prefer the more laid-back and less touristy vibe of Cape May . This area offers traditional boardwalk and beach fun, historic mansions, cool little museums, and one of the cutest zoos we’ve ever seen. Yep, Cape May is a pretty great spot!

• Cape May Beach
• Ellen Physick Estate
• Nature Center of Cape May
• Willow Creek Winery & Farm
• Cape May Point State Park
• Harriet Tubman Museum
• Washington Street
• Historic Cold Spring Village
• Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
• Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
• Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks
• World War II Lookout Tower
• Cape May County Park & Zoo

Vegas Diner and Restaurant   — One thing we learned during our time in this area is that folks in New Jersey love their diners. We visited this diner on a whim and absolutely loved it! The breakfast food was wonderful, and the boston cream pie was some of the best we’ve ever had. 

Ocean City Campground and Beach Cabins  — A lovely campground with a beautiful pool and mini-golf course that kids just love, Ocean City Campground and Beach Cabins is a super place to stay. This park is only minutes away from all the Jersey shore has to offer, including the many Cape May attractions. 

Wilmington, DE

An absolutely beautiful city, Wilmington might be the biggest city in Delaware, but it really isn’t all that big. Nevertheless, this is a place worth visiting. Not only is it a very green place with an almost magical vibe, but there are also a whole lot of cool things to do here. These include museums, parks, and an awesome riverwalk area that you won’t want to miss. 

• Delaware Art Museum
• Delaware Museum of Nature and Science
• Alapocas Run State Park
• Brandywine Creek State Park
• Hagley Museum and Library
• Brandywine Zoo
• Bellevue State Park
• Delaware Children’s Museum
• DuPont Environmental Education Center
• First State National Historical Park
• The Grand Opera House

El Diablo Burritos  — A build-your-own burrito place, El Diablo Burritos serves up absolutely fantastic creations. While the concept of this local chain is very similar to Chipotle or Qdoba, we thought the food was head and shoulders above both places. Their soda fountain machine also offered an interesting selection of all-natural sodas rather than the usual stuff you find everywhere else.

Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay  — Want a taste of the Delaware seashore to go with your time in Wilmington? We recommend staying at Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay. This park is the definition of luxury RV resorts. People love the private beach and relaxing atmosphere, and the swim-up bar is a major bonus as well. 

Learn more about visiting Wilmington here:  Top 14 Best Things to do in Wilmington, DE

Washington, D.C.

Why Visit Washington DC ?

• The White House Visitor Center 
• The White House
• Washington Monument
• Lincoln Memorial
• Martin Luther King Monument
• Thomas Jefferson Monument
• Smithsonian Museums
• Shenandoah National Park (75 miles from Washington, but worth a visit if you have the time!)

We The Pizza  — There are actually a few great pizza places in D.C., but this one is probably our favorite. The name is super fun, the service is fast, and best of all, the pizza is really good. We love the crust and the swirl patterns they made with the sauce on top of the pizza made for a pretty presentation. 

Greenville Farm Family Campground  — A simple campground in an awesome location, Greenville Family Farm Campground is a great lodging option for anyone visiting Washington, D.C. Full-hookup sites are available, as are clean restrooms with showers. Of course, the swimming pool and playground are appreciated by kids!

Learn more about visiting Washington DC here:  Washington, D.C.: 8 Monuments, 4 Kids, 5 Miles, 1 Day

Virginia Beach, VA

The ultimate vacation destination, Virginia Beach is the perfect place to soak up some sun by the sea. Not only can you play in the sand and splash in the waves, but the city also has a lot to offer in the way of parks, museums, gardens, and other awesome attractions. Of course, you’ll also want to make sure to drive through the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel that allows you to drive your car  under the water !

• Virginia Beach Boardwalk
• First Landing State Park
• Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
• Norfolk Botanical Garden
• Military Aviation Museum
• False Cape State Park
• Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Cape Henry Lighthouse
• Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
• Virginia Museum of Contemporary Arts
• Mount Trashmore Park
• Ocean Breeze Waterpark
• Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
• Ferry Plantation House
• Children’s Museum of Virginia
• The Thoroughgood House

Doc Taylor’s Restauran t — Looking for a cheap and tasty meal? Doc Taylor’s Restaurant has you covered! This yummy diner may be a hole in the wall, but they really know how to cook. They are known for their delicious Eggs Benedict, but pretty much anything from the breakfast menu is sure to please. 

Holiday Trav-L-Park  — Your stay at this Virginia Beach park comes with FREE beach parking! You’ll also have a lovely full-hookup site and access to amenities such as an RV wash, dog park, pool, game room, mini-golf course, and more. 

Outer Banks, NC

Obviously, you will need to make a stop in North Carolina when planning east coast RV trips. What better place to do this than a visit to the Outer Banks? The barrier islands in the Outer Banks are the perfect place to escape for a while. The lighthouses, wild horses, and natural beauty of the place can make you feel like you’ve moved to another world entirely, and we’re certain you’ll leave the place feeling rejuvenated and ready for the next stop. 

• Wild Horses
• Lighthouses
• Jockey’s Ridge State Park
• Wright Brothers National Memorial
• North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
• Monument to a Century of Flight
• Sandy Run Park
• Springer’s Point Preserve
• Elizabethan Gardens
• Nags Head Woods Preserve
• The Lost Colony
• Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education

Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop  — Sometimes a simple sandwich is what you really want. Whenever that craving strikes, Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop in Manteo is the place for you. Their Italian sub is amazing, and the artichoke pasta salad is some of the best pasta salad out there!

Frisco Woods Campground  —  Located in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Frisco Woods Campground is the perfect place to stay when visiting Outer Banks. Here, you’ll find full-hookup, big-rig-friendly sites and amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, an onsite store, a playground and pool, and more. Of course, the fact that this is a waterfront park makes it even more appealing!

Charleston, SC

An adorable city with a special southern charm, Charleston is an excellent example of what South Carolina has to offer the world. The cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and pastel antebellum houses take you back to a bygone era. Tour one of those historic buildings, explore the historic forts or check out the aquarium. Whatever you do here, you’re sure to have a great time.  

• Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
• Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
• Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
• Angel Oak Tree
• Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
• Historic Charleston City Market
• South Carolina Aquarium
• Coyne Hall Plantation and Gardens
• Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum
• Joe Riley Waterfront Park
• Middleton Place
• The Charleston Museum
• Gibbes Museum of Art

Home Team BBQ  — Barbecue is a delicious treat that we like to enjoy once in a while, so when we saw Home Team BBQ right by where we happened to be at dinnertime, we had to give it a try. It was wonderful! We loved everything we tried, but the pulled pork and tots were especially yummy!

Lake Aire RV Park and Campground  — Located just 15 minutes from Charleston, Lake Aire RV Park, and Campground is a fantastic lodging choice. Not only is this park in a great location, but it also offers sites with full hookups, clean bathhouses, and a laundry room. Of course, the amenities such as a pool and playground are also pretty nice! 

Savannah, GA

Like Wilmington, Savannah has an almost magical feeling to it. Like Charleston, it’s a southern city if there ever was one, and the historic charm and Spanish moss found around every corner is just wonderful. On top of all that, the city boasts a variety of excellent tours, attractions, and food stops that simply cannot be missed. Oh, and Tybee Island is the perfect spot for a beach day!

• Old Town Trolley Tour 
• Savannah Belles Ferry
• Tybee Island Segway Tour
• Tybee Island Dolphin Tour
• The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
• Forsyth Park
• River Street
• Georgia State Railroad Museum
• Girl Scout First Headquarters
• Oatland Island Wildlife Center
• Jepson Center
• Savannah Children’s Museum
• Historic Civil War Homes

Maple Street Biscuit Company  — Everyone knows that biscuits are a southern food, so it only makes sense that the best biscuit ever would be found in the southern city of Savannah. That’s right, we think Maple Street Biscuit Company has the best biscuits of all time, and their biscuit sandwiches are to die for. 

Red Gate Campground & RV Park  — A big-rig-friendly park, Red Gate Campground & RV Park is the perfect home base for anyone hoping to explore Savannah. This campground has everything you need to be comfortable, including Wi-Fi, hookups, an RV wash, a swimming pool, and more. 

Learn more about visiting Savannah here:  21 Superb Things to Do in Savannah, GA With Kids

Augustine, FL

Another city with some incredible history behind it and a good amount of that lovely Spanish moss, St. Augustine is the final stop on our itinerary. Considering this is the oldest city in the United States, it should come as no surprise that it’s full of historic landmarks. Not only that, but the place also has a whole lot of tourist attractions that you’re sure to love. 

• Alligator Farm
• Marineland Dolphin Adventure
• The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
• Colonial Quarter
• Castillo De San Marcos National Monument
• St. Augustine Beach
• Old Town Trolley
• Pirate Museum
• Ghost Tours
• History and Architecture

Sunset Grille  — We loved this restaurant for its location right across from St. Augustine Beach. The ocean breeze, while we ate, was amazing, and the chowder fries were absolutely delicious. 

St. Augustine RV Resort  — Located just off of I-95, St. Augustine is the perfect place to visit. There are other attractions that are nearby to St. Augustine, such as Daytona Beach. Large full-hookup sites are perfect for any size rig, and the Wi-Fi, cable TV, laundry room, and clean restrooms help ensure you’re comfortable during your stay. 

Learn more about visiting St. Augustine here:  17 Exciting Things to do in St. Augustine with Kids

There you have it, an awesome east coast RV trip itinerary that ensures you see all the best places the east coast has to offer. You can’t go wrong by following this plan for east coast RV trips (and giving it some of your own personal touches). What are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!

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These New RV Vacation Packages Are the Ultimate Way to Explore National Parks

Choose from drives through the Grand Canyon, Crater Lake, or Canyonlands.

What better way to celebrate National Park Week (happening now) than by booking an RV trip that truly immerses you in the country's parks ?

Travel company Inspirato, which helps curate luxury experiences , is offering bespoke itineraries that explore both national and state parks in a Class A or C RV, ranging in size from 21 to 32 feet long.

The trips include a seven-night journey from Las Vegas through Bryce, Grand Canyon, and Zion ; an 11-night adventure from Seattle through Bend, Crater Lake, and Columbia River Gorge ; a 10-night getaway from Denver through Arches, Canyonlands, and central Colorado ; and a seven-night experience from Denver through Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, and Black Hills .

Each package features a personalized daily itinerary, pre-arrival grocery service, and around-the-clock roadside assistance. All the RVs are suitable for families or multigenerational gatherings, and dates can be chosen based on needs, with packages starting at $5,500.

The Class A RVs can comfortably sleep two adults and up to four children, while the Class C RVs can fit up to seven people. Both classes have a kitchen with a refrigerator, freezer, and an entertainment center featuring an LCD television, DVD player, radio, CD player, and MP3 adapter. (The Class A RVs also have an oven in the kitchen.) Of course, both come equipped with the essentials: air-conditioning, heating, a hot water heater, and a generator. A convenience kit (kitchen utensils, pots, pans, cups, and bowls) and sleeping kit (sheets, blankets, pillows, and towels) are also included.

The rate also includes a national park pass, if needed for the itinerary, and insurance of up to $1 million in damages.

As the pandemic hit last year, RV travel became a popular way to explore the country, with sales hitting record numbers last summer and rentals spiking during peak weeks .

Inspirato has a history of reinventing luxury travel. Last year, it introduced unlimited vacation rentals for $2,500 a month and a subscription service that allows access to some of the best hotels in the world.

Even better, Inspirato's American Road Trip Adventures aren't limited to national parks — the company also offers RV itineraries along the California coastline, Miami and the Florida Keys, Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe, and the Oregon coast and wine country.

Great RV Road Trip Ideas

Oh, and you should probably plan out a budget so you know how much you’ll be able to spend as you go. Our Cruise America travel experts will help you pick out the right unit for you, depending on the size of your party and to where you will be traveling. If you’re having a hard time deciding where you want to roam, you may find this list of some of the most popular RV road trip circuits, helpful:

Blue Ridge Parkway

This popular driving route traverses through close to five hundred miles of oh, so mountainous Appalachia. During the summer months travelers can experience some heavy traffic in certain areas, but the incredible scenery is more than worth the wait.

Route 66 is the consummate American road trip. Many are the movies, novels and music numbers that feature this famous stretch of highway … and it certainly does stretch … all the way from Southern California to Illinois!

Historic New England

For a diverse experience that includes both natural wonders and historic sites, take your rental RV on a tour of New England. It has a lot to offer RVers looking for a change.

New Orleans and the Gulf Coast

Over the last five years, New Orleans has experienced an incredible revival. The route through the Gulf Coast region isn’t one of the more common RV routes, but it makes for an excellent roadtrip in your rental RV. Prices have become manageable because of the tourism business experiencing a slowdown in recent years.

Yellowstone National Park and the Rockies

Yellowstone National Park is one of the world’s most visited RVing destinations, and is definitely worth a trip to Montana to see. It’s probably the most intriguing camping you’ll ever experience. Try to take advantage of the many scenic routes as you make your way to Yellowstone. Do your best to plan a scenic route that passes through other points of interest in the Rocky Mountain region, such as Rocky Mountain National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

The Great Lakes Region

For a spectacular midwest adventure, and using Chicago as a base, make a circuitous route along the American side of the Great Lakes, through the Upper Michigan peninsula. If you do end up planning a trip like this, be sure to take along any water-sports equipment you may have, like surfboards or paddleboards, as there are an abundance of beaches on this route.

Southwest Desert

The American Southwest is still the type of landscape worth exploring in your Cruise America rental RV. Though the region contains famous parks like the Grand Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. There are also some great urban areas of the Southwest, such as Santa Fe, New Mexico, which is known for its pueblo-style Native American architecture and a beautiful collection of arts.

Southeastern Seaboard

Traveling along the Southeastern coast of the United States is not unlike a New England RV trip, as the jaw dropping landscapes and the bustling urban areas create memories that will last a lifetime. As you travel, be sure to stay along the coastline, from Virginia down through the Carolinas, then on to Savannah with its southern charm, history and culture.

Columbia River Highway

This route makes for an excellent RV journey through the Pacific Northwest. You could start in Portland, Oregon , and make your way along the majestic Columbia River Gorge. As you travel, you will find all sorts of quality RV parks, as well as scenic points you’ll not want to miss.

Big Sur Coastal Highway

If you’re a fan of the ocean (and who isn’t?), the Big Sur Coastal Highway provides an ocean experience as you travel along the central coast of California, Every quaint little seatown along the route is unique, yet so similar. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore each of these little towns, with their singular qualities and adventures. These are just a few examples of trips you can enjoy with your family in your Cruise America rental RV. You will find that no matter where you roam, the journey is always just as enjoyable as arriving!

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7 of The Best RV Trips For Your Next Summer Vacation

Summer is all about hitting the road with your friends or family to explore somewhere new. As an RV owner, you probably value adventure. The U.S. has a plethora of outstanding wilderness destinations that are made easy to explore in your RV. Once you’ve decided to take a big trip, it’s time to plan where you want to go. If you need inspiration for some new RV trips, we are here to help. We chatted with some seasoned RVers and asked them their favorite places to explore in the U.S. as well as included some of our favorite destinations.

Figuring out your route can be stressful, but we’ve got you covered. If you want to stay safe and keep the good times rolling, try The Dyrt PRO , which allows you to download maps, plan your route, and find last-minute camping. Before you head out on your trip, make sure you and your RV are ready with these RV Vacation tips !

Below you’ll find must-visit destinations to explore this summer.

1. Drive to Alaska

Wherever you’re coming from, driving to Alaska is going to be one of the longer RV trips you can do, but the views along the way couldn’t be more worth it. You’ll likely drive through British Columbia, the Yukon and eastern Alaska coming from most regions of the contingent U.S. You’ll find striking views of surrounding mountains and valleys like no other place in the U.S. Spend some time in Anchorage where you’ll have the chance to learn about Alaska native cultures, can go flight touring or enjoy one of the incredible Alaska national parks nearby . The best time to visit is anytime between May and September.

2. South Dakota

Mt. Rushmore is a must-see in South Dakota, but don’t let that be your only item during your RV trip. Check out the Black Hills National Park which showcases incredible rock formations and panoramic views. Also check out Bear Country USA, a seasonal drive-through wildlife park with bears, wolves, elk and other animals native to North America. You’ll find fair weather in most of South Dakota any time between May and October.

3. Yellowstone and The Tetons

Yellowstone National Park and The Tetons are just 40 miles from one another, so it’s easy to see a lot of beauty in just a few days. Both parks offer incredibly diverse scenery. Grand Teton National Park has some of the most striking mountain scenery in the country, while Yellowstone’s geyser basin hosts a series of incredible technicolor hot springs. We recommend buying an annual national park pass to make seeing both parks worth it the journey. The best time to visit both of the parks is between mid-May to late September.

4. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is renowned for its northeastern beauty, and is known as the Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast. The park protects an abundance of habitats and the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline. RVers can enjoy 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads. The best time to visit the park is between late spring to early fall, though the park get very busy in summer, so expect crowds.

5. Vermont and New Hampshire

There are lots of places to explore in the northeast. Vermont and New Hampshire offer some of the most striking beauty. Check out Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont and of course the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Memorial day to mid-October are great times to visit this area. Don’t forget to check out Vermont’s famous breweries, like The Alchemist Stowe , during your RV trip.

6. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park offers some of the most unbeatable scenery in the U.S. Make sure to drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald and Logan Pass. Glacier National Park is an excellent RV trip, but the summer season doesn’t last long because the park is so far north. The best time to visit Glacier is between July and August. Days are warm and sunny, but nights can get chilly and drop into the 40s. Make sure to reserve your stay at an RV park up to a year in advance.

7. Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is famous for its diverse plant life and the beauty of its ancient mountains. You’ll never get bored on an RV trip to this national park. You’ll find opportunities to hike, picnic, go on horseback rides, see waterfalls and so much more. The best times to visit the park are summer and fall. Fall offers incredible autumn foliage .

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Emily Gallegos

Emily Gallegos is a travel-lover, backpacker and is generally curious about all this world has to offer. She grew up in the front range of Colorado where she fell in love with snowboarding, fishing and being outside as often as possible. She has studied Spanish in Spain and Argentina and has written for magazines in Boulder, CO such as Elevation Outdoors.

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