rv trips 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.

Travels with Ted

10 Epic Bucket List RV Road Trips in the US

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

I’ve lived in an RV since 2016, and traveled thousands of miles across the country (and into Mexico and Canda). In this guide to the best bucket list road trips in the USA, I share my favorite RV road trips.

Ready to start planning your own RV trip across America? Let’s get started.

• 1.1 Renting an RV
• 1.2 Finding Campgrounds
• 1.3 Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip
• 2.1 Olympic Peninsula
• 2.2 Utah National Parks
• 2.3 Route 66
• 2.4 California’s Pacific Coast
• 2.5 Blue Ridge Parkway
• 2.6 South Florida
• 2.7 Upper Peninsula of Michigan
• 2.8 Columbia River Gorge
• 2.9 Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
• 2.10 North to Alaska

Planning your RV Road Trip

If you already an experienced or full-time RVer, go ahead and skip down to the bucket list RV road trips . Otherwise, here are some key planning tools to utilize before your first RV trip.

Renting an RV

If you do not already own an RV, it is best to rent a rig for your first RV road trip in the USA. A rental RV allows you to test drive the type, layout and travel style of an RV before you make a large investment.

RVshare allows you to rent fifth wheels, travel trailers and motorhomes directly from local owners. They have every type of rig available, and you can filter by price and features to pick the perfect RV.

Finding Campgrounds

After you’ve secured an RV, you need to find places to sleep. Fortunately, there are several great apps to help you find campgrounds and RV parks in the USA. If you are visiting an area during the peak season (i.e. Winter in Florida) you will need to make campground reservations in advance.

However, if you are traveling during less busy times, it is best to leave a few open days between reservations so you can be more spontaneous.

To find RV parks and campgrounds, download the AllStays Camp & RV app ($9.99). The AllStays app has an interactive map that allows you to find campsites directly along your route.

AllStays has the most comprehensive list of campgrounds and RV parks for people RVing in the USA. The app also shows truck stops, dump stations and RV services so you can easily find fuel and supplies.

For free RV camping , use the Campendium website to find no cost RV campsites. Free camping is a great way to save money and find more secluded locations.

However, most free campsites do not offer water, electric or sewer hook-ups, so you should be prepared to “rough it.” If you plan on dry camping or boondocking at free campsites, choose a rental RV that has a generator on board.

If you are planning an extended RV round trip, consider joining one or more RV membership clubs to enjoy discounted camping fees.

Buying Gear for your RV Road Trip

The last step in the planning process for an RV road trip is buying all the gear you need. Review our Amazon list of must have RV supplies and either buy them or verify that your rental RV comes equipped with the proper gear.

I also highly recommend buying a road trip journal to record your adventures and experiences RVing in the USA.

10 Best RV Road Trips in the USA

Olympic peninsula.

Driving highway 101 around the Olympic Peninsula is a short but sweet RV road trip. The complete Olympic Peninsula rod trip is just over 300 miles, so it can easily be completed in a few days.

On the other hand, there is so much to see in this region you could also stay for weeks. The main attraction on the Peninsula is Olympic National Park which features a lush rain forest, stunning mountain peaks, crystal clear lakes and the Pacific Coast.

There are plenty of RV campground options in the area. There are several private campgrounds just off highway 101 and there are 10 campgrounds in the National Park that can accommodate RVs.

Most National Park campsites are designed for RVs up to 21 feet long, and none of them accept rigs over 35 feet. If you plan to camp in the park, make sure to travel in a smaller RV.

While the National Park is the main feature, there are several other sights to see along this route. For incredible views, take a side trip to Cape Flattery, the most northwesterly tip of the contiguous 48 states.

To reach Cape Flattery, first head to the town of Neah Bay from highway 112. In Neah Bay, go as far west as you can, follow signs to Cape Flattery Road and head south. After 7.7 miles the road will take you to the trail head parking lot.

Don’t forget to stop in Neah Bay and purchase a Makah Recreation Pass , which is required to hike on the trail. The trail is an easy 1.5 mile round trip that winds through the forest and ends in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Utah National Parks

Utah has five National Parks with jaw dropping scenery. Combining all five parks into a single road trip is an unforgettable adventure, and one of my personal favorite experiences RVing in the USA.

Start your adventure in Zion National Park then drive on Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands. Allot at least 2 days in each park to make sure you have ample time to hike and relax. Since most of the trails in National Parks are not pet-friendly, this is not a great RV road trip with dogs.

All of the Utah National Parks, except Canyonlands, have RV-friendly campgrounds that can be reserved in advance. Reservations are accepted 6 months ahead of time and should be made exactly 6 months in advance for summer reservations.

None of the NPS campgrounds offer electric hook-ups, so RVers looking for more comfort should stay in private campgrounds near the parks. Reservations for RV parks also need to be made at least six months in advance to guarantee availability.

Don’t forget to add a few Utah State parks into your road trip itinerary. Dead Horse Point State Park, located just outside of Canyonlands, offers dramatic views of the Colorado River and the pinnacles of Canyonlands.

This state park has two campgrounds with 30 and 50 amp electric outlets. An hour from Zion, Sand Hollow State Park is a great summer stop if you are looking to get in the water.

The main feature of this state park is a refreshing reservoir with boat rentals. Their Westside campground also offers spacious campsites with full hook-ups.

Route 66, also know as the Mother Road, is the most iconic and celebrated RVing route in the USA. Historic Route 66 covers over 2,400 miles, starting in Chicago and ending at Santa Monica, California.

For the classic experience, I would recommend sticking to the westernmost portion of the route. This area features many kitschy attractions that will take you back in time. Start your journey in Amarillo, TX and take Route 66 all the way to the Pacific Ocean in California.

There are many RV campgrounds along historical Route 66. Simply use the AllStays app to find campgrounds with good reviews at your desired stopping points.

State park campgrounds are a good option if you are looking to incorporate more outdoor adventures into your road trip. Consider camping at Santa Rosa Lake, Homolovi Ruins and Malibu Creek State Parks.

Hualapai Mountain Park, 11-miles off of the road in Arizona, offers a great break from the desert. The campground sits in the Hualapai Mountain Range, so you can enjoy views of the desert below from a cooler elevation.

You want to take your time driving down Route 66, so you have plenty of time to stop for roadside attractions and detours. Starting in Amarillo, check out the Cadillac Ranch, an art installation made using old Cadillac cars.

During your RV road trip, stop at the ghost town of Oatman, Arizona that has a friendly local population of wild burros.

California’s Pacific Coast

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) hugs the Pacific Coast of California for 650 miles. The route is best driven from north to south, so you are on the ocean side of the road for the entire drive.

This coastal road trip is not for the faint of heart. The route features winding turns, small shoulders and big drop offs. I would recommend this RV road trip for more experienced drivers not first time RVers. Drive slow and plan short days to keep this drive fun and safe.

There are several state park campgrounds and private RV parks available along Highway 1. Spend a few days at the San Francisco RV Resort just outside of the city. This resort is pricey, but it features stunning ocean views, full hook-ups and easy access to the city.

Also stop at Doheny State Beach campground in Dana Point. This campground does not have any hook-ups, but there are campsites available right on the beach.

One of the most iconic stops along the California Coast is Big Sur. Plan to spend at least a few days of your road trip exploring this area.

The hike to McWay Falls should definitely be on your travel and adventure bucket list. The trail is less than a mile, but the views are incredible. You can access the trail head directly off of Highway 1.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches through the mountains from Afton, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina (my home state). This road is an iconic route for people RVing in the USA.

There are plenty of overlooks and the speed limit never exceeds 45 mile per hour, making for a leisurely RV road trip. The route has many sweeping curves, but is generally easy to drive without many tight turns. The vistas are stunning during the peak fall season when the leaves are changing, but be prepared for crowds during this time.

There are eight National Park Service Campgrounds on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Most of these campgrounds do not have hook-ups, but they offer potable water, bathrooms with flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings and RV dump stations.

These campgrounds are open from May to October for a fee of $20 per night. If you are looking for higher-end accommodations, there a plenty of private RV parks a short drive off the parkway. Near Asheville, North Carolina, spend a night or two at the stunning mountaintop RV sites at Mama Gertie’s Hideaway Camp.

Views and hiking are the two main features of the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of our favorite hikes in the area is Crabtree Falls. The trail head is located at milepost 339.5.

There are two trail options: an easier 3 mile out and back hike on the same trail or a more strenuous 3.5 mile loop trail that climbs a ridge above the falls. The main feature of the hike is the 70 foot waterfall but there are also beautiful wildflowers in the early summer.

South Florida

If you are looking for a winter destination to RV in the USA, look no further than the Sunshine State. While many RVers park in one spot for the winter, a Florida road trip is a much better adventure.

I recommend starting your Florida road trip near Everglades National Park and driving down the Florida Keys.

Start your trip at the Miami Everglades RV Resort, a full hook-up RV park near the Everglades that offers amenities including a pool and game room. In the Keys, Sunshine Key RV Resort is another high-end RV park located right on the water.

For a more affordable camping option in the Keys, stay at Bahia Honda State Park which offers campsites with electric for $38 per night. Be sure to make your campground reservations six to twelve months in advance to avoid being stuck without a place to stay.

If you make it all the way to Key West, consider leaving your RV behind for the day to visit Dry Tortugas National Park. The park which is an island 70 miles west of Key West is only accessible by boat or seaplane.

Daily ferries shuttle visitors from Key West to the park, or you can arrive in style by flying in with Key West Seaplane Adventures. Once you arrive, you can spend the day swimming, snorkeling and exploring the 19th century fort.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (The U.P.) is a beautiful natural playground for campers RVing in the USA. Summer is the best time to visit when you can count on warm, pleasant weather.

The U.P. is accessed from I-75 on the lower peninsula of Michigan. From there, you can plan your own route around the U.P.

Straits State Park is a great place to start and end your U.P. RV road trip. Located right after the bridge onto the Upper Penninsula, 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. There are also plenty of private campgrounds on the U.P. for the remainder of your road trip.

Just 10 minutes from Indian Lake State Park is The Big Spring ( Kitch-iti-kipi ) . The natural spring has crystal clear blue water that makes for a beautiful photo opportunity.

While you can’t swim in the spring, the park offers a self-operated observation raft that you can take out onto the water. Through observation windows on the raft floor, you can see trout swimming below. Also, don’t forget to eat a Pasty, a local meat pie delicacy.

Columbia River Gorge

The drive along the Columbia River Gorge is one of the most scenic drives in the Pacific Northwest. The gorge reaches heights of 4,000 feet, and the river serves as the boundary between Oregon and Washington.

I recommend starting in Troutdale, Oregon and driving on Interstate 84 to at least Hood River. This trip is a very short drive, but you can extend the trip by taking detours over the river to the Washington side.

This is a perfect first time RV road trip, allowing you to drive just 30 minutes between RV parks.

In Troutdale, stay at the Sandy Riverfront RV resort. This full hook-up campground offers direct access to the Sandy River where you can swim and float on hot summer days.

At the end of your trip, stay at the Blue Barn Grill & RV park on the Washington side of the river. In between, small RVs (20 feet max) can stay at the Eagle Creek campground within the National Scenic Area.

Even though the Columbia River Gorge is a short trip, it is not lacking in activities. There are stunning waterfalls, local breweries and hundreds of hiking trails to explore. One can’t miss hike along the gorge is Beacon Rock.

The trail is a one-mile hike up the 848 foot Beacon Rock, the core of an ancient volcano. The hike involves many switchbacks and steep drop-offs, but handrails make it safe for even casual hikers. At the top you are rewarded with vast views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

If you are looking to incorporate both city life and the great outdoors into your RV road trip, consider driving from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. The drive from Las Vegas to the south rim is just over four hours, but you can spend a significant amount of time at each destination.

If you are renting an RV , you can take a round trip route so you can fly in and out of Las Vegas. Alternatively, this trip can be combined with a Utah National Park or Route 66 road trip for a longer adventure.

There are many large RV resorts around Las Vegas that offer pools, outdoor activities and shuttles to casinos. If you want to stay right on The Strip, camp at Circus Circus RV Park. The campground offers full hook-up sites on the Circus Circus property, and campers have access to all the same amenities as hotel guests.

Once you reach the Grand Canyon , stay at the Trailer Village campground which offers full hook-up RV sites close to the south rim of the canyon.

Don’t forget to stop along the way to the canyon and explore Arizona a little more. Stop in the town of Chloride for some history and culture. The old silver mining town now features some interesting art with many residents creating junk art sculptures on their property.

Just outside of town, park the RV and walk 1.5 up a rough dirt road to see the murals of Chloride miner, Roy Purcell. Painted in 1966, these murals are a sight to see, covering 2,000 square feet of rocks and granite.

North to Alaska

Once you have completed some shorter road trips RVing in the USA, consider upping your road trip game and driving to Alaska. Leaving from Washington state, you can drive through British Columbia and The Yukon to reach Alaska.

Allow an absolute minimum of one month for this RV road trip, so you have plenty of time for driving and exploring. Ideally, this RV road trip would take two to three months so you have plenty of time to explore Western Canada as well.

On the route to Alaska, you will find plenty of RV parks off the highway. The AllStays app will help you find campsites in the US, as well as Canada.

Once you arrive in Alaska, the whole state is your campground. Alaska is one of the few places in the USA where it is legal to camp almost anywhere. Check out Call to Wander’s post for some Alaska campsite recommendations.

Once you reach Alaska, be sure to make it to Denali National Park. The park features Denali, the highest peak in North America, as well as plentiful wildlife.

The only entrance to the park is 240 miles north of Anchorage off Alaska Highway 3. There are RV-friendly campgrounds within the park, so you can enjoy the experience of camping right beside the natural wonders.

If you are new to RV travel, download our free RV setup and departure checklists to guide you when parking and packing up the RV.

Also, save our list of 250 road trip questions to help pass the time while you are driving.

Ready to hit the road and go RVing in the USA? Comment below to tell us which RV road trip is on the top of your bucket list.

Happy Camping!

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 .

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5 Great RV Road Trip Routes in the United States

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RV camping is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to explore the United States. Few modes of transport allow travelers to cover so much distance for little money while coming face-to-face with the nation's natural treasures.

We've come up with five route suggestions for folks looking to hit the road and tour America's most beautiful natural preserves.

» Learn more: The beginner’s guide to renting an RV

California loop

Distance: 2,226 miles

California offers a cornucopia of natural beauty, from towering redwood forests to dusty deserts to breathtaking seascapes and shorelines. This 14-destination loop will take RV travelers across the entire state. While we start our journey just northeast of San Diego and go in a clockwise loop, you can use any location as your starting point. We've highlighted some of the top nature and camping destinations across California, but feel free to improvise as there is no shortage of parks and preserves in the Golden State.

A. Anza-Borrego State Park

B. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park.

C. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

D. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

E. Point Reyes.

F. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

G. Klamath National Forest.

H. Shasta National Forest.

I. Lake Tahoe.

J. Grover Hot Springs.

K. Yosemite National Park.

L. John Muir Wilderness.

M. Death Valley.

N. Joshua Tree National Park.

Rocky Mountains

Distance: 2,826 miles

The Rocky Mountains stretch over 3,000 miles from New Mexico to British Columbia and offer a life's worth of exploration opportunities. You could spend weeks at Yellowstone and Grand Teton alone. We've chosen just a few of the more popular destinations and suggest you set aside a hefty chunk of time for this trip. Again, the locations are ordered clockwise, but you can jump in at the most convenient destination. We begin in southern Idaho.

A. Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho.

B. Craters of the Moon Monument, Idaho.

C. National Elk Refuge, Wyo.

D. Grand Teton National Park, Wyo.

E. Yellowstone National Park, Mont.

F. Glacier National Park, Mont.

G. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Mont.

H. Devil's Tower National Monument, Wyo.

I. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colo.

J. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colo.

K. Mesa Verde National Park, Colo.

L. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colo.

Distance: 2,332 miles

The classic American road trip, Route 66 spans from Chicago to Los Angeles. Unlike the other trips we list here, Route 66 is less a nature excursion and more a nostalgic cruise along a collection of museums, diners and roadside attractions. Route 66 has hundreds of potential stops; we've chosen just a few. If you plan on taking Route 66 both away from home and back toward it, remember to leave plenty of attractions for the return trip.

A. Chicago, Ill.

B. Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum, Ill.

C. Lincoln's Tomb, Ill.

D. St. Louis, Mo.

E. Mark Twain National Forest, Mo.

F. Galena Mining and Historical Museum, Kan.

G. Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum, Okla.

H. Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, Okla.

I. Palo Duro State Park, Texas

J. Cadillac Ranch, Texas

K. Route 66 Auto Museum, N.M.

L. Red Rock State Park, N.M.

M. Petrified Forest National Park, Ariz.

N. Meteor Crater, Ariz.

O. The Grand Canyon, Ariz.

P. Los Angeles, Calif.

New England loop

Distance: 1,515 miles

A road trip around New England offers a balanced blend of verdant forests, rocky seascapes, colonial history and gorgeous seaside towns. We start our loop in upstate New York, heading east and north into the parks of upper New England. After Acadia, head south along the coast for breathtaking ocean views. A collection of historic New England towns (Salem, Cape Cod and more) will provide a break from the greenery and a lesson in American history. Pick up the route at the location closest to you.

A. Adirondack State Park, N.Y.

B. Green Mountain National Forest, Vt.

C. White Mountain National Forest, N.H.

D. Allagash Wilderness Waterway State Park, Maine

E. Acadia National Park, Maine

F. Minute Man National Historic Park, Mass.

G. Salem, Mass.

H. Boston, Mass.

I. Cape Cod, Mass.

J. Jamestown, R.I.

K. Fort Adams State Park, R.I.

L. Mystic Seaport, Conn.

M. Hammonasset State Park, Conn.

N. Fort Hale Park, Conn.

O. Ferris Lake, N.Y.

Distance: 5,776 miles

The Southern states have plenty to offer in terms of nature, culture and relaxation. A satisfying southern RV expedition will sample forests, beaches and everything in between. This loop starts in historic Savannah, drops down into Florida and meanders along the Southern coast before launching back east into Tennessee and Virginia. The last leg of the journey comprises a series of beaches for a proper cool down at the end of a long journey. Of course, you can begin anywhere along the route and eventually end up back where you started.

A. Savannah, Ga.

B. Ocala National Forest, Fla.

C. Big Cypress National Preserve, Fla.

D. Everglades National Park, Fla.

E. Apalachicola National Forest, Fla.

F. Blackwater River State Park, Fla.

G. De Soto National Forest, Fla.

H. New Orleans, La.

I. Kisatchie National Forest, La.

J. Houston, Texas

K. Sam Houston National Forest, Texas

L. Ouachita National Forest, Ark.

M. Ozark National Forest, Ark.

N. Memphis, Tenn.

O. Nashville, Tenn.

P. Cherokee National Forest, Tenn.

Q. Chattahoochee National Forest, Ga.

R. George Washington National Forest, Va.

S. Virginia Beach, Va.

T. Myrtle Beach, S.C.

U. Hilton Head, S.C.

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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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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!

More Info Check Out:

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Things to Do in Boston with Kids

8 Travel Memberships Worth Having

The Best RV Camping in Northern California

7 Amazing Michigan Campgrounds On Lakes To Stay At This Summer

19 RVing For Beginners Tips You Will Want To Know

RV Itinerary West Coast – 26 Epic Places To Stop

15 Awesome New Mexico RV Parks Worth A Visit

Why You Should Rent Out Your RV And How To Do It

25 Exciting and Fun Things To Do In Myrtle Beach, SC

Top 14 Maine National Parks and State Parks To Visit

Top 8 Best Amusement Parks In NJ

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk NJ (What To Know When Visiting)

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14+ Things to do in Gettysburg

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36 Essential RV Travel Tips Every RVer Needs to Know

Are you ready to hit the open road in your RV?

Before you set off on your adventures, it’s crucial to have the right RV travel tips and RV accessories up your sleeve.

As a seasoned RVer, I’ve learned that preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

In this comprehensive RV travel guide, we’ll dive into 36 must-know RV travel tips and hacks , covering everything from pre-trip planning to campground etiquette to making the most of your adventures with kids in tow.

Whether you’re an RV beginner or a seasoned veteran, these travel tips will help you make the most of your time on the road.

Pre-Trip RV Travel Tips

Before hitting the road, taking time to plan ahead is essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

From researching your destination to creating a comprehensive checklist and mapping out your route, these pre-trip RV travel tips will help you stay organized and prepared for anything that comes your way.

1. Research Your Destination: Scout it Out Before You Go

Before setting out on any RV adventure, it’s important to spend some time researching and planning your trip.

Things to research and check include campground amenities, reviews, and availability to ensure that your chosen location meets your needs.

Consider the weather and seasons when planning your trip, as some destinations may be more enjoyable during specific times of the year. (Also don’t just assume that everything is open year-round, as many destinations including up north or in the mountains close down for the winter season, which can extend into late fall and early spring.)

Also, don’t forget to look for nearby attractions and activities that align with your interests, such as hiking trails, fishing spots, or cultural landmarks.

2. Create & Use a Checklist: Tick-Tock, It’s Checklist O’Clock

Creating and using a comprehensive checklist is a must if you don’t forget anything.

List all the necessary food, medications, clothing, bedding, kitchenware, and toiletries you’ll need for your trip.

Remember to include RV-specific items like hoses , leveling blocks , and a tire pressure gauge.

Some RVers like to have different lists for each packing category, personally though, I find it easier to just have one master list to work from, so I have everything I need for the trip in one place.

Also, don’t forget to check that you have all your important travel documents, such as your ID, vehicle registration, insurance papers, and passport, if you plan on crossing a border before departing.

3. Plan Your Route: Map Your Adventure

Another important RV travel tip is to plan your route ahead of time, as this will help ensure a stress-free RV journey.

Utilize RV-specific GPS like this popular one on Amazon or route-planning apps to find the most suitable roads for your vehicle.

Take into account road conditions, tolls, and low clearances that may affect your travel.

Factor in fuel stops and rest areas along the way to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.

4. Make Reservations in Advance: Don’t Get Left Out in the Cold

RV travel and camping are more popular than ever, which makes reserving you’re campsite as early as possible more important than ever.

Popular campgrounds fill up quickly, as it’s not uncommon for national and even state parks to fill up months in advance, especially around major holidays, think Fourth of July, Labor Day, and Memorial Day.

So make sure to book your camping spots as early as possible to not only secure a site but also to snag one of the better campsites, personally, I always look for waterfront options.

Before making that reservation though, make sure you’re aware of the campground’s cancellation policies in case your plans change unexpectedly.

5. Check Weather Forecasts: Weather or Not

Before embarking on your RV trip, check the weather forecasts for your planned route and destination.

Being aware of potential adverse conditions like storms, extreme heat, or cold will help you prepare accordingly.

Pack appropriate clothing, gear, and emergency supplies based on the expected weather.

If severe weather is predicted, consider adjusting your travel plans to ensure the comfort and safety of you and your passengers.

RV Travel Tips (Maintenance & Safety)

Making sure your RV is in tip-top shape and prioritizing safety are crucial aspects of any successful RV road trip.

In this section, we’ll cover essential maintenance and safety RV travel tips that every RVer should know.

6. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks: Fix It Before It Fails

Performing regular maintenance checks is a must to keep your RV in good working condition and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Before each trip, take the time to check your fluids and batteries to ensure they are at the proper levels.

Inspect belts, hoses, and filters regularly for signs of wear or damage, and replace them as needed.

It’s also important to perform regular inspections of the RV roof and slide-outs, paying close attention to seals and caulk to ensure the camper is watertight, as it’s always easier to fix a compromised seal or caulk with home court advantage.

I’ve found keeping all these RV maintenance tasks and inspections in my head challenging, because of this, I keep an RV maintenance log and schedule to help me stay on top of it all.

7. Check Tire Pressure & Tread: Tread Wisely

Maintaining proper tire pressure and tread depth is critical for the safety and performance of your RV.

Regularly check your tire pressure using a reliable tire gauge like this popular one on Amazon that doesn’t require batteries , and inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended level.

Inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear, damage, or objects lodged in the tread.

Replace tires when the tread depth reaches the minimum safe level, the U.S. Department of Transportation recommends replacing tires when they reach 2/32″ . A common way to check this is to place a penny facing down inside the tire’s tread, if you can see the top of Lincon’s head, it’s probably time to replace your tires.

8. Know Your RV’s Dimensions & Weights: Size It Up

Knowing your RV’s dimensions and weights is critical for safe and legal travel.

RV Lengths & Weights You Should Know:

• Overall RV Length (With and Without the Tow Vehicle)
• Fully Loaded Weight
• Cargo Carrying Capacity
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

It’s important to be aware of height, length, and width restrictions on the routes you plan to take, as some roads, bridges, and tunnels may have limitations that could impact your RV.

It’s also important to ensure that your RV is not overloaded, as this can cause safety issues and put undue stress on your vehicle’s components.

Make sure to distribute weight evenly throughout your RV for better handling and stability on the road.

9. Practice Safe Driving: Drive Smart

Driving or towing an RV, while manageable for most drivers with a little practice, requires a different skillset, careful attention to detail, and extra caution, due to the longer length and extra weight.

So before heading out, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your RV’s size, weight, and handling characteristics.

Take the time to practice driving or towing your RV in a safe, open area to gain confidence and develop a feel for its unique dynamics.

Adjust your driving speed to accommodate your RV’s size and the road conditions, as larger vehicles require more time to accelerate, brake, and turn.

Allow extra space for turning and stopping, and be mindful of your RV’s tail swing when maneuvering in tight spaces.

Use extra caution in high winds and mountainous terrain, as these conditions can affect your RV’s stability and handling substantially.

It’s also really important to maintain a safe following distance and be mindful of your RV’s height when navigating underpasses or low-hanging branches.

10. Install & Properly Maintain Safety Devices: Staying Safe on the Road

Installing and maintaining safety devices in your RV can provide peace of mind and protect you and your family.

Equip your RV with smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers, and check them regularly to ensure they’re in good working order.

Also make sure the camper has proper ventilation to prevent gas leaks and buildup, which can be dangerous in confined spaces.

Plus, it’s also a good idea to add a backup camera and tire pressure monitoring system for added safety and convenience, if you’re RV didn’t come with those features standard, which most don’t.

• See the best affordable RV backup camera system I’ve found, which is the AMTIFO Wireless Backup Camera.
• See the best affordable tire monitoring system I’ve found, which is the Tymate RV Tire Pressure Monitoring System

11. Have an RV Tool Kit: Ready, Set, Repair

Having a well-stocked RV tool kit on hand can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected repairs or maintenance needs.

Include essentials like a jack, lug wrench, pliers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and a multimeter.

Don’t forget to pack spare fuses, light bulbs, and batteries, as well as duct tape, zip ties, and a can of WD-40 for quick fixes.

Having these tools readily available can help you tackle minor issues and avoid costly roadside assistance calls.

If you’re starting from scratch, this basic tool kit from DEKOPRO on Amazon is a great place to start.

12. RV Appliance Check: Keep It Cooking

Before setting out on your trip, conduct a thorough check of all your RV’s appliances to ensure they are functioning properly.

Test your refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, and air conditioning unit, and address any issues or malfunctions before hitting the road.

Also, make sure your water heater, pump, and tanks are in good working order, and familiarize yourself with the operation of your RV’s generator, if your camper has one.

13. Have Emergency Plans: Better Safe than Sorry

Having emergency plans in place before an emergency can help you navigate unexpected situations with confidence and minimize potential risks or danger.

Create a communication plan that includes emergency contact information for family members, friends, and roadside assistance services.

Develop an evacuation plan that outlines escape routes and designated meeting points in case of fire, severe weather, or other emergencies.

Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures and pack a well-stocked first aid kit tailored to your family’s needs.

14. Invest in an Emergency Beacon: Safety Signal

Investing in an emergency beacon can provide an added layer of safety and peace of mind, especially when traveling in remote areas or off-grid locations with no cell service.

Emergency beacons, such as personal locator beacons (PLBs) or satellite messengers, allow you to send distress signals and communicate your location to emergency responders in case of an emergency situation.

If you do choose to invest in an emergency beacon be aware that most require a monthly subscription plan for service.

It’s also important to make sure to familiarize yourself with the device’s operation and regularly test and maintain it to ensure it’s ready when you need it most.

Campground Etiquette & Setup RV Travel Tips

When arriving at a campground, be mindful of your surroundings and fellow campers.

Practicing good campground etiquette and following proper setup procedures can help ensure a pleasant experience for you and everyone around you.

15. Follow Campground Rules: Don’t Be a Rule Breaker

When staying at a campground, make sure to familiarize yourself with and follow the established rules to ensure a harmonious experience for everyone.

Respect quiet hours and noise levels, which are typically posted at the campground entrance or office.

Keep in mind that sound can travel easily in outdoor settings, so be mindful of your volume, especially during early morning or late evening hours.

If you’re traveling with pets, adhere to the campground’s pet policies, which may include leash requirements, designated pet areas, and waste disposal guidelines.

Lastly, avoid cutting through other campsites as a shortcut, as this can be seen as disrespectful and an invasion of privacy.

16. Practice Good Neighbor Habits: Campground Manners

Practicing good neighbor habits goes a long way in creating a positive campground atmosphere.

Keep your campsite tidy and clean by properly disposing of trash, storing food and supplies, and keeping your area free of clutter.

Be friendly and respectful to fellow campers.

If you notice a neighbor in need of assistance, such as helping with setting up equipment or providing a tool they may have forgotten, it’s always nice to offer your help.

However, it’s also important to always respect others’ privacy and personal space, as some campers may prefer a more solitary experience.

Being a good camp neighbor basically boils down to the golden rule, which is “Do to others what you would have them do to you”.

17. Master RV Parking & Leveling: Park Like a Pro

Mastering the art of RV parking and leveling isn’t as hard as you think if you’re an RV beginner.

Before arriving at your campsite, learn how to back your RV into a site safely.

Practice in an open area, using your mirrors and a spotter if necessary, until you feel confident in your ability to maneuver your RV in tight spaces.

Once parked, use leveling blocks and or jacks to ensure your RV is stable and level.

A level RV not only provides a more comfortable living space but also helps your refrigerator and other appliances function properly.

Don’t forget to chock your wheels to prevent your RV from rolling, particularly if you’re parked on an incline.

18. Set Up Utilities Properly: Utility Check

Setting up your RV’s utilities properly is important for both your comfort and the safety of your equipment.

When connecting to electrical, water, and sewer hookups, follow the proper procedures outlined in your RV’s manual or the campground’s guidelines.

For electrical connections, use an RV surge protector appropriate for your camper’s amperage to safeguard from power fluctuations.

When connecting your water hose, ensure it is clean and free of leaks to prevent water waste and potential damage to your RV or the campground’s facilities.

It’s also not a bad idea to use an inline RV water filter and a pressure regulator .

If your RV has a sewer connection, use a high-quality sewer hose like this one from Camco and secure it properly to prevent leaks or spills.

Maintain clean and leak-free hoses by storing them in a designated compartment and replacing them when necessary.

19. Campfires & Firewood: Campfire Fundamentals

Gathering around a campfire is a quintessential part of the camping experience, but it’s important to follow proper campfire etiquette and safety guidelines.

Before starting a fire, check the campground’s rules and local fire regulations to ensure that campfires are permitted.

Always use designated fire pits or rings.

When collecting firewood, follow the campground’s guidelines, as some may require you to purchase firewood on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species.

If allowed to gather your own wood, collect only fallen, dead branches, and never cut live trees or branches.

Keep your fire small and manageable, and always have a bucket of water or sand nearby to extinguish the flames if necessary.

Before retiring for the night or leaving your campsite, ensure that your fire is completely extinguished, dousing it with water and stirring the ashes until they are cool to the touch.

RV Living & Organizational RV Travel Tips

Living in an RV can be a fun and adventurous experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to space limitations and organization.

To make the most of your RV living, it’s important to develop practical strategies for maximizing storage space, simplifying daily tasks, and maintaining a clutter-free environment.

In this section, we’ll explore a range of RV travel tips for RV living and organizations designed to help you create a functional and comfortable home on wheels.

20. Maximize Storage Space: Unlock Hidden Storage

Maximizing storage space is crucial when traveling in an RV, as every square inch counts.

To make the most of your limited space, utilize vertical storage solutions like shelves and organizers.

Install hooks, pegboards, or magnetic strips to keep items like cooking utensils, tools, and toiletries easily accessible and off countertops.

Add multi-functional furniture with built-in storage, like storage ottomans for added storage.

It’s also helpful to store smaller items in labeled bins or containers, as this helps to keep you organized.

For even more RV storage ideas, check out our blog post “ 47 RV Storage Ideas to Maximize Your Space for Compact Living “.

21. Simplify Meals & Cooking: Easy Eats

Simplifying your meals and cooking routine can make RV living more enjoyable and less stressful.

Plan your meals ahead of time and prep ingredients before your trip to save time and reduce food waste.

Use versatile appliances like slow cookers and instant pots, which allow you to create delicious, one-pot meals with minimal effort and cleanup.

These appliances are also great for conserving energy and minimizing heat generation inside your RV.

Stock your pantry with non-perishable staples and emergency food, such as canned goods, dried pasta, and trail mix.

This ensures that you always have a meal on hand, even if you’re unable to visit a grocery store or don’t feel like making a big meal.

22. Conservation & Managing Waste: Waste Not, Want Not

Managing waste and practicing conservation is always important but it’s even more important when traveling in an RV.

When it comes to your RV’s waste tanks, use biodegradable, RV-safe treatment drops or chemicals to break down waste and prevent odors.

Regularly monitor your tank levels and dispose of waste at designated dump stations, following proper procedures to avoid spills or contamination.

Implement water-saving techniques when washing dishes or showering, such as using a basin to collect water while washing and taking shorter showers.

You might even want to try a military shower for ultimate shower water conservation, where you quickly wet your body, turn off the water while you soap up, and then rinse off quickly.

As this shower method drastically reduces water usage, making it ideal for RV travel where resources can be limited or when you’re boondocking ( more on this later ).

You can also install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to further reduce water consumption.

23. Staying Connected & Entertained: Stay Plugged In

One of the main benefits of RV travel and getting back to nature is unplugging, however, it’s still important to stay connected.

To help with this it’s a good idea to invest in a reliable Wi-Fi booster designed for RVs like this popular weboost option on Amazon or a mobile hotspot, as this will help to maintain access to the internet for communication and entertainment.

However, because of the remote nature of RV travel and camping, unless you plan on investing in satellite internet like Starlink , there will be times when you can’t find a signal.

Because of this, before embarking on your RV travels, its a good idea to download offline maps, guides, and entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, or e-books, to enjoy during times when internet access may be limited or unavailable.

Don’t forget though that the whole point of RVing is exploration and getting out of your daily routines, which probably involves a lot of tech and screen time.

So take advantage of your surroundings by exploring local attractions, hikes, and events.

Boondocking & Off-Grid RV Travel Tips

Boondocking, or camping off-grid without hookups, is an increasingly popular way to experience the freedom and solitude of RV camping.

However, while boondocking offers the opportunity to explore remote locations and immerse yourself in nature, it also requires careful planning and preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

In this section, we’ll delve into essential boondocking and off-grid RV travel tips to help you make the most of your adventures.

24. How to Find Boondocking Spots: Off-grid Roaming

Boondocking can be a great way to enjoy RVing as well as save some money by avoiding expensive campsites.

However, there are many factors you need to consider when boondocking and one of the most important and sometimes challenging (especially on the East Coast) is finding a place to boondock.

This is where apps and websites come in like Campendium , FreeCampsites.net , or iOverlander , which are resources dedicated to locating free or low-cost off-grid campsites.

These resources often include user reviews, photos, and detailed information about each site.

Beyond these apps and websites though, public lands, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land are always good places to check, as these areas often allow boondocking for a specified number of days.

It’s important to verify stay limits and restrictions before setting up camp though, respect posted private property signs, and obtain any necessary permits or permissions before camping on public lands if required.

25. Conserve Power & Water: Sustain Your Stay

One of the most important practices when boondocking is conserving power and water, as most boondocking sites lack RV hookups.

This means you’ll be relying solely on your RV’s self-contained resources.

The good news though is that there are many things you can do to conserve resources to extend your stay.

Best Ways to Conserve Power While RV Camping & Boondocking:

• Install or add additional roof-mounted solar panels.
• Invest in portable solar panels for more flexible power options.
• Upgrade your RV house batteries from lead acid to AGM or lithium.
• Invest in portable power banks to provide additional auxiliary power.
• Invest in a portable 30-amp or 50-amp RV generator .
• Convert old incandescent RV lighting to modern LED lighting.
• Use a battery monitor to keep track of your electricity usage and battery levels to promote more mindful usage.
• Unplug phantom loads by unplugging devices like TVs, microwave ovens, and chargers that continue to draw power even when turned off.
• Limit inverter use and turn off when not needed, as inverters which convert DC battery power to AC for household devices are inefficient and draw more power.
• Whenever possible, cook outside using a portable gas stove or grill to keep the interior cooler reducing the need for air conditioning.
• Instead of relying on air conditioning, use windows and vents to create a cross-breeze during cooler parts of the day to maintain comfortable temperatures.
• Since water pumps use electricity, conserve water to minimize pump use.

Best Ways to Conserve Water While RV Camping & Boondocking:

• Implement water-saving techniques like using a basin to wash dishes, taking military showers, and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.
• Instead of running water, use a spray bottle to rinse dishes.
• Place a container in the shower to catch water as it warms up.
• Install a water miser on your RV to automatically recycle the water while you’re waiting for warm water.
• Install low-flow faucets and shower heads.
• Use paper plates to reduce the need for dishwashing.
• Buy one-gallon jugs of drinking water when stocking up on groceries to add additional water supply to your camper.
• Set up a system to capture and purify rainwater for non-potable uses like watering plants, washing outdoor gear, or flushing toilets.
• Consider eating more plant-based meals, which generally require less refrigeration and water for cooking compared to meat-based dishes.
• Make sure everyone in the RV including children understands the importance of water conservation and practices these water-saving tips.

26. Practice “Leave No Trace” Principles: Leave it Better than You Found it

Whether RVing, camping, or just taking a stroll through nature, it’s all our responsibility to maintain the beauty and integrity of these natural areas, not only for our enjoyment but for the enjoyment of future generations.

So make sure to pack out all trash and dispose of it properly, either in designated receptacles or by taking it with you when you leave.

It’s also important to use existing campsites and fire rings whenever possible to minimize your impact on the environment.

If you must build a campfire, keep it small and contained within an existing fire ring, and ensure it’s completely extinguished before leaving.

It’s also important to respect fire bans and follow local regulations to prevent wildfires.

27. Prepare for Emergencies: Ready for Anything

Preparing for emergencies is crucial when boondocking, as you will more than likely be far from immediate assistance.

Because of this, you should have a well-stocked first-aid kit like this one on Amazon , as well as prescription medications, and any items specific to your family’s needs.

You should also pack emergency supplies like extra food, water, and warm clothing in case of unexpected situations or extended stays.

It’s also a good idea to have backup communication devices, such as a satellite phone or two-way radio, to stay connected in areas with limited cell service.

Finally, always make a friend or family member outside of your camping party aware of your general location and direction of travel, in case search and rescue need to locate you in an emergency situation.

28. Utilize Reflective Window Covers: Reflect & Conserve

Utilizing reflective window covers can help regulate the temperature inside your RV while boondocking.

These covers reflect sunlight and heat, keeping your RV cooler during hot days and reducing the need for air conditioning.

In colder weather, reflective window covers can also help insulate your RV, retaining heat and minimizing the need for heating.

Choose covers that are specifically designed for RV windows and are easy to install and remove as needed.

29. Pre-cool Your Food & Refrigerator: Start Cool, Stay Cool

Pre-cooling your food and refrigerator before embarking on a boondocking trip can help conserve power and ensure your food stays fresh longer.

Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting and allow it to run for several hours or overnight while still connected to shore power.

This will help your refrigerator maintain its temperature more efficiently once you switch to off-grid power sources like 12V, propane, or a generator.

In addition, try to minimize the number of times you open your refrigerator door while boondocking to prevent cold air from escaping.

30. Pack Extra Water Containers: Water Wise

Packing extra water containers is a great way to extend your boondocking stays and ensure that you have a sufficient supply of fresh water.

In addition to your RV’s built-in water tank, bring along several portable water containers like jerry cans that you can fill up before heading to your boondocking site.

These containers can be used for drinking water, cooking, and hygiene purposes, and can also serve as a backup supply in case of emergencies or unexpected situations.

Choose containers that are durable, easy to transport, and rated for drinking water like this popular option on Amazon.

Tips for RV Traveling with Kids

Traveling with kids in an RV can be a great way to create lasting family memories and introduce your children to the joys of outdoor adventure and travel.

However, it also comes with its own set of challenges, from keeping kids entertained during long drives to ensuring their safety and comfort in new environments.

In this section, we’ll explore a range of RV travel tips specifically tailored to families with children.

31. Create a Kid-friendly Space: Kiddie Corner

Creating a kid-friendly space in your RV can help children feel more comfortable and engaged during your travels.

Designate a specific area for play, such as a dinette or a corner of the RV, and equip it with age-appropriate toys, games, and books.

This will give your kids a sense of ownership and provide them with a familiar space to retreat to when needed.

For sleeping areas, use bed rails or safety harnesses to prevent falls and ensure a secure sleeping environment.

Provide each child with their own storage space, such as a dedicated drawer or cubby, to help them stay organized and maintain a sense of personal space within the RV.

32. Plan Kid-friendly Activities: Fun for the Little Ones

Planning kid-friendly activities is key to keeping your children entertained and engaged during your RV adventures.

Research campgrounds and destinations that offer amenities like playgrounds, pools, or kid-friendly attractions.

This will give your children opportunities to burn off energy and socialize with other kids.

Best Ways to Entertain Kids While RV Traveling:

• Hold a mini-scavenger hunt around the campsite using natural items like leaves and rocks.
• Create a travel journal where they can write and draw about their experiences each day.
• Organize a photo challenge with a list of items or scenes they have to capture on camera.
• Bring along board games and card games for evening entertainment.
• Set up a portable projector for outdoor movie nights under the stars.
• Teach them to use binoculars for bird watching or stargazing.
• Have a craft kit ready for making friendship bracelets or simple art projects.
• Download audiobooks or podcasts suitable for children to listen to during long drives.
• Play classic car games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions.”
• Use educational apps on tablets that can teach them about the geography or history of your travel locations.
• Organize nature walks to explore and learn about the local environment.
• Plan simple cooking activities where they can help make meals or snacks.
• Provide them with a map and compass for a basic lesson in navigation.
• Create a “treasure box” filled with small toys or treats they can earn through good behavior or completing educational tasks.
• Play educational games that involve the places you’re visiting, like state capitals or landmark trivia.
• Engage them in planning the itinerary by letting them pick activities or stops for the day.
• Have them help with navigating by reading road signs and tracking progress on a map.
• Bring a small, portable pool for quick and easy fun at the campsite.

33. Maintain a Routine: Rhythm of Life

Just like adults, kids crave routine.

Maintaining a routine while traveling in an RV can help provide a sense of stability and normalcy for your kids.

Stick to regular meals and bedtimes as much as possible, even if your daily activities vary. This will help regulate your children’s energy levels and ensure they get enough rest.

Schedule daily quiet time or naps to give everyone a chance to recharge and relax.

Plan educational activities or road-schooling lessons to keep your kids learning and engaged during travel days.

34. Involve Kids in RV Life: Campers in Training

Involving your kids in RV life can help them feel more connected and invested in your travels.

Assign age-appropriate chores, such as sweeping the floor or organizing their personal belongings, to give them a sense of responsibility and ownership.

Teach them about RV maintenance and safety, such as checking tire pressure or properly disposing of waste, to help them understand the importance of taking care of your home on wheels.

Encourage your kids to help plan trips and activities, giving them a voice in the decision-making process and fostering a sense of excitement and anticipation.

35. Pack Essential Kid Gear: Child’s Play

Packing essential kid gear is a way to ensure your children’s comfort and well-being during your RV travels.

Bring favorite comfort items, such as blankets or stuffed animals, to help your kids feel secure and at home in new environments.

Stock up on healthy snacks and drinks to keep your children nourished and hydrated during long drives or outdoor activities.

Have a well-stocked first-aid kit with kid-friendly medications, such as pain relievers and antihistamines, to address any minor health issues that may arise.

36. Prioritize Safety: Safe & Sound

While safety is always important when RV traveling, when there are kids on board it becomes even more important.

Teach your children essential RV safety rules and emergency procedures, such as how to exit the RV quickly in case of fire and how to call for help.

Use appropriate car seats or restraints for younger children while driving to ensure their safety on the road.

Monitor your kids closely during campfire and outdoor activities, ensuring they understand the importance of staying a safe distance from flames and respecting wildlife.

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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Plan Your Family Vacation

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, near Miam i , 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 in the Everglades. 

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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RV Bucket List: 20 Road Trips for Retirees

Posted: February 5, 2024 | Last updated: February 5, 2024

20 RV Roadtrips for Adventurous Retirees

1. The Ozark Mountains

Highway 21, arkansas.

There may not be a more beautiful sight than seeing the leaves change colors in the Ozark mountains. If your sense of adventure includes a challenging drive, then the mountain roads should fit the bill. Plus, there is no shortage of fresh air to offer a long needed relief from years in a (possibly) stuffy office.

(Image via Instagram )

2. U.S. Highway 163

Monument valley, arizona.

The majestic stone buttes jutting out of the flat Western landscape are a symbol of the American West. Highway 163 runs through 64 miles of this gorgeous terrain in Navajo Nation. Goulding's Campground is on the Utah side if you want to camp nearby.

(Image via Flickr )

3. Garnet Byway

Missoula, montana .

There's plenty of Big Sky country to drive through and plenty of places to camp—including one of our favorite RV Parks, the Polson Motorcoach and RV Resort . You can also trek around Glacier National Park while you're there. You'll never have a dull sight in view!

4. Route 66

Take a step into the past with the all-American Route 66. The roads are lined with businesses that hearken back to its heyday in the 1960s. It's also got no shortage of campgrounds and RV parks. There are entire websites devoted to helping you find a place to stay across the eight states that the classic highway winds through.   

Florida Keys

This gorgeous highway runs along the Florida Keys and features the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, as part of its 120-mile span. There are plenty of places to camp down, like Grassy Key RV Park & Resort or Geiger Key Marina . The Florida Keys offers plenty of fishing and watersports that you may not have bothered to do with children, but you're free now, so enjoy!

I-81 through Virginia is a classic American highway. With mountains, caverns, and historic locations, you'll always have somewhere to stop and smell the roses. From the Lexington KOA to Shenandoah Valley Campground , you'll never be worried about where to park, either.

West of Denver

I-70 is a favorite among road trip enthusiasts. The transcontinental highway was originally supposed to have Denver as its Westernmost point until lobbying pushed it through Utah. That's sort of ironic since the stretch West of Denver is generally regarded as the best part.  This will be a worry free trip. Due to its popularity, I-70 has attracted many amenities.  From Tiger Run RV Resort in Colorado to Butch Cassidy Campground near Aurora Utah, there are plenty of places to rest to your heart's content.

8. The Great U.S. 50 Yard Sale

Lots of people take road trips to connect with the country they live in and getting to know its people may well be one of the best ways to do that. The Great U.S. 50 Yard Sale is this sort of trip. Of course, there are bountiful places to camp on a road that stretches across the country, from Lake Haven Mobile Home Park in Maryland to Lake Tahoe KOA in California.

Mississippi Gulf Coast

U.S. 90 runs along the Southern United States. Nearly all of it travels through country worth seeing, but the Mississippi Gulf Coast is phenomenal. There is plentiful opportunity to participate in pastimes like fishing, golfing, and coastal casinos. Plus, the highway is positively teeming with RV camps like Majestic Oaks RV Resort and Bay St. Louis RV Park .

10. Scenic Route 100 Byway

This 138-mile stretch of road runs through 20 towns across Vermont and the spine of the Green Mountain.  A statewide ban on billboards gives you some of the greatest views you'll ever have of the gorgeous land we inhabit. One of the many RV parks you might check out along the route is Lazy Lions  located in Graniteville/South Barre. 

(Image via Wikipedia )

11. The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is mostly known as a hiking trail (a truly epic journey of over 2,000 miles). But, for those who can't get away from it all for that long or are unable to walk that far, the good folks at Road Trip USA put together a series of maps that hew pretty close to the hiking trail and still let you take the journey from northern Maine down to Georgia. 

This incredible route takes you on a 400-mile trip across some of the most beautiful terrain that Montana has to offer. From Pompeys Pillar National Monument (the one spot on the Lewis and Clark expedition to actually be marked) to the State Parks at Billings, your eyes will always be met with wonders along the way. 

(image via Flickr )

13. Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a designated All-American Road . This section of California SR1 runs from Mendocino County in the north all the way down to Orange County in the south. Be ready for perfect weather, redwoods, striking cliffs, and the majesty and drama of the Pacific Ocean.

14. Northern U.S. 1

Route 1 isn't just for driving through the Keys. It's actually the longest north-south road in the U.S. Through several long stretches it ventures inland, then travels alongside the Atlantic toward the north, especially in New England and Maine. If you're looking for a tour of the East Coast, consider this option!

15. Billy the Kid National Scenic Byway

If you're a fan of the Old West, you'll want to check out this 84-mile All-American Road through New Mexico. The Byway runs through ranches, ghost towns, mining camps, and more. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by scenery like Sierra Blanca, which is lovely enough without considering its historical interest.

16. Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway

This 512-mile loop runs through Colorado and Utah and encompasses an incredible array of prehistoric wonders. These wonders include the Dinosaur National Monument (an area with over 800 paleontological sites), the Natural Bridges, Arches National Park, Canyonlands, and the Flaming Gorge. There's obviously plenty to see and do here!

17. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

This one may not be the biggest drive in the world. In fact, you may want to let someone else do the actual driving, depending on how many tours you plan on taking. But, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is informative, fun, and a great way to learn more about an American classic!

(image via Instagram )

18. Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway

This 43.4-mile highway runs through northern Arizona. It starts at Jacob Lake and continues through dense forests of evergreens at Kaibab National Forest until it ends at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. From there, you can hike the Bright Angel Point Trail or drive around the canyon area itself. There's plenty of exploring to be done!

19. Olympic Peninsula

Highway 101 is an enormous, 330-mile loop around the entire Olympic Peninsula. Nearby towns like Port Townsend and Sequim are worth stopping by, but the real draw here is the scenery. Old-growth forests in Olympic National Park, Quinault Rain Forest, Puget Sound, and the mountains of the Olympic Range all make this route one of National Geographic's favorite drives on the planet!

20. Seward Highway

Seward Highway is a 125-mile stretch that runs from Seward to Anchorage. The traffic here is so low that Alaska's highways don't have to comply with Interstate Highway design standards, as long as they meet current and probably future traffic demands. The road may be seldom-traveled, but that doesn't mean it's rough. In fact, the highway is frequently cited as one of the most scenic roads in the country.

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U.S. Coastal Road Trip Vacation Ideas

The road trip is a quintessential american getaway, and these california and new england coastal routes take you past spectacular scenery, plus luxurious places to spend the night..

by American Express Travel®

May 28, 2024

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When the weather’s fine, there’s an eagerness to get outdoors. If you’re looking to hit the road without roughing it, you can uplift your getaway with stays at Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection properties.*

Each day brings scenic views and new adventures while each evening you can pull over and settle in for an indulgent stay. After all, Platinum Card® Members can enjoy an exclusive suite of benefits including a room upgrade upon arrival, when available†, guaranteed 4pm check-out, a $100 credit which varies by property, to use toward eligible charges, such as food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges, and daily breakfast for two when booking a Fine Hotels + Resorts® property through Amex Travel. When staying at least two nights with The Hotel Collection, Platinum and Gold Card Members get a $100 credit, which varies by property, to use toward eligible charges, such as food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges, and a room upgrade upon arrival, when available. †

We’ve mapped out road trip itineraries for the California and New England coasts that hit a variety of Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection properties ready to welcome you with comforts and benefits. You could cruise from New York to Connecticut then hug the coast up to Maine, taking in the charms of lighthouses and gilded-age mansions and the taste of fresh lobster. Or zigzag your way down from the vineyards of Sonoma County past San Francisco and along the rugged Pacific coastline towards the beaches of San Diego, where the surf’s up and the sun’s out.

Whichever route calls to you, keep in mind that you earn 5X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with your Platinum Card through AmexTravel.com . You also have the option to use Membership Rewards® Pay with Points for all or part of your prepaid hotel and prepaid car rental making it easier to turn your road trip daydreams into a reality.*

† Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.

New England Road Trip

If you’re taking the scenic route from New York City to Maine, prepare for a stunning coastline and picturesque stops ahead. Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection properties are more than a stop along the way — they’re an entirely elevated take on a road trip.

Start in New York City with ➊ The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel as your base. Built in 1881, this landmark property is where untold history meets timeless heritage.  Enjoy a crisp cocktail in Manhattan’s living room at The Bar Room and end your night at Le Gratin, where you can use your $100 credit on a Lyonnaise-inspired meal in courtesy of chef Daniel Boulud.

Once you’re ready to make the city-to-country switch, head pretty much due north through Connecticut. After you drop your bags at ➋ Mayflower Inn and Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection , in Washington, CT, take advantage of early 12pm check in (when available) and stroll along one of the state’s beautiful beaches. There are 58 landscaped acres of woodland and gardens where you can stretch your legs, with even more time to explore when you take advantage of guaranteed 4pm checkout. When it’s time for a bite, chef-in-residence April Bloomfield’s farm-to-table menus provide nourishment worth writing home about. 

If directly on the water is where you prefer to be, make your way east to the New England coast and park yourself for the night (or longer) at Newport, RI’s ➌ Brenton Hotel . Pick a room overlooking the Newport harbor and, once settled, head out to absorb the old glamour of Newport’s Gilded Age mansions and the sea air. Take your meals with an ocean-side view at The Living Room, or “LR” as the locals say, where you can take advantage of your $100 credit.

Nantucket bound? Book at ➍ The Wauwinet,   in Nantucket, MA, for access to extraordinary private northeast beaches. Savor one of Nantucket's best wine programs and take a 50-minute cruise on The Wauwinet Lady to the waterfront TOPPER'S restaurant, where you can apply your $100 credit toward dinner. Life on the water is good—extend that goodness by taking advantage of 4pm check-out.

Making your way further north will land you at the ➎ Mandarin Oriental, Boston , located in the heart of Boston’s chic Back Bay neighborhood. Use 12pm early check-in (when available) to drop your bags and explore the city’s finest shopping, cultural venues, and restaurants. After a packed day of sightseeing, use your $100 credit at Boston’s first and longest running five-star awarded spa and indulge in expansive serene spaces, including the Crystal Steam Room.

Once you’ve hit Boston, you’re almost at Maine, and Maine in the summer is magic. The ➏ Inn by the Sea , in Cape Elizabeth, is a local beach landmark offering a classic charm and gold-standard service. Hike, swim, boat, explore — and then put your $100 credit, with a 2-night stay, toward the hotel spa’s signature Sea Waves massage. You can also check out the nearby historic lighthouses or spot wildlife at Great Pond. 

California Road Trip

The drive along the California coast is a legendary one that can be done again and again, in so many ways. Whether you’re starting from the Bay Area and heading south, or doing San Diego to San Francisco, the Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection properties dotting the path are an excellent place to rest between the miles—and make your Golden State road trip truly memorable.

If your starting point is the Bay Area, why not immerse yourself in Sonoma wine country at ➊   Hotel Healdsburg , featuring bespoke artwork, ceramics, and furniture by local artists and designers. Open your room’s French doors to a private balcony overlooking the garden, town plaza, or countryside. Bike around Sonoma County and sample transatlantic wine tastings. Take advantage of your $100 credit, with a 2-night stay, at the vibrant Dry Creek Kitchen, where you can choose from an extensive wine list highlighting some of Sonoma’s best.

Burrowed in San Francisco’s South of Market neighborhood, ➋ InterContinental, San Francisco puts you within walking distance of the Theater District and Union Square. After a day full of sightseeing activities – museum visits, the Ferry Building, maybe even a cable car ride or a tour of Alcatraz Island – treat yourself to a fine-dining meal at Luce, where you can use the $100 credit, with a 2-night stay.  

For a change of scenery and decidedly less urban stay, make the 50-minute drive to ➌ Rosewood Sand Hill in Silicon Valley, where five-star luxury meets California calm. All accommodations come with balconies or terraces with breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Take a horseback ride at Glenoaks Equestrian Center or use your $100 credit toward meal at the award-winning Madera. 

The central coast feels like the American Riviera once you hit ➍ Alila Ventana Big Sur , where the sky, the sea, the mountains, and the redwoods all converge. Wake up to views of this natural beauty from your secluded suite with a private balcony, one of the villas or glamping options at the resort. Use your $100 credit toward a meal on the outdoor deck at Sur House or a picnic basket for the next day’s drive further south; treatments in an outdoor cabana at the resort’s Spa Alila are another tempting option.

Heading further down the coast, you'll want to brake in the tranquil town of Santa Barbara. Take in the serene backdrops of vineyards, ocean views, and coastal countryside from the ➎ The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara . The Mediterranean architecture and laid-back charm will inspire you to slow down and appreciate every moment, which is even easier thanks to guaranteed 4pm check-out. You might explore the coast on horseback, splash around two beaches, and use your $100 credit at the locally sourced restaurant Angel Oak.

The ➏ Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach  is perched on 175 stunning acres that encompass a private beach club, three pools, an oceanfront spa, and restaurants. Finish off a day in paradise with a nightcap around the fire pit, and make the most of guaranteed 4pm check-out hitting the greens at Monarch Beach Golf Links.

When you’ve reached San Diego, don’t worry, you’re not done yet. The ➐ Fairmont Grand Del Mar feels like an entire vacation on its own with four heated pools, golf, an outdoor fitness center, self-guided hiking trails, plus some of California's prettiest beaches. Extend your time on the coast, and in the lap of luxury at Fairmont, with guaranteed 4pm check-out.

Get more out of your road trip

Convenient car rental protection when you need it. Enroll your American Express® Card in  Premium Car Rental Protection ◊ . Your Card will be charged one flat rate per rental period, not per day like rental companies may charge. Fees, coverage limits, and coverage areas apply.

Eligible Platinum Card Members can enjoy complimentary premium status for car rental programs as well as additional benefits and discounts. Each status program has a set of benefits for eligible Platinum Card Members and way to claim them. Log into your Platinum Card account to view your specific Car Rental Privileges . Enrollment required. Terms and limitations apply.

Global Dining Access by Resy gives eligible Card Members special access to sought-after restaurants across the globe when you add your eligible Card to your Resy profile. Access to exclusive reservations, premium dining experiences, Priority Notify, and more, all from Resy app. Terms apply.

When you Shop Small , you’re not just supporting neighborhood favorites – you’re investing in the community. When you’re a local or visiting, explore our map to find small businesses near you.

◊ Premium Car Rental Protection is underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company, Administrative Office, Phoenix, AZ. Coverage is determined by the terms, conditions, and exclusions of Policy AX0610 or Policy PCRP-IND and is subject to change with notice. Coverage is not available for ride-sharing companies that allow individuals to rent out their personal vehicle. This document does not supplement or replace the Policy. Premium Car Rental Protection is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc., California license number 0649234.

Must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly.

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The Hotel Collection Program:  The Hotel Collection (THC) benefits are available for new bookings of two consecutive nights or more made through American Express Travel with participating properties and are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer and Business Gold Card, Platinum Card ®  Members, and Centurion ®  Members. Additional Card Members on Consumer and Business Platinum Card Accounts, and Additional Card Members on Consumer and Business Centurion Accounts are also eligible for THC program benefits. Delta SkyMiles ®  Gold and Platinum Card Members are not eligible. Bookings must be made using an eligible Card and must be paid using that Card, or another American Express ®  Card, in the eligible Card Member's name, and that Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked. Room upgrade is subject to availability and is provided at check-in; certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade. The type of experience credit or additional amenity (if applicable) varies by property; the experience credit will be applied to eligible charges up to $100. Advance reservations are recommended for certain experience credits. Benefit restrictions vary by property. Benefits are applied per room, per stay (with a three-room limit per stay). Back-to-back stays booked by a single Card Member, Card Members staying in the same room or Card Members traveling in the same party within a 24-hour period at the same property are considered one stay and are ineligible for additional THC benefits (“Prohibited Action”). American Express and the Property reserve the right to modify or revoke the THC benefits at any time without notice if we or they determine, in our or their sole discretion, that you have engaged in a Prohibited Action, or have engaged in abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with your THC benefits. Benefits cannot be redeemed for cash and are not combinable with other offers unless indicated. Benefits must be used during the stay booked. Any credits applicable are applied at check-out in USD or the local currency equivalent. Benefits, participating properties, and availability and amenities at those properties are subject to change. To be eligible for THC program benefits, your eligible Card Account must not be cancelled. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card.

$200 Hotel Credit: Basic Card Members on U.S. Consumer Platinum Card Account are eligible to receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when they or Additional Platinum Card Members use their Cards to pay for eligible prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings made through American Express Travel (meaning through amextravel.com, the Amex® App, or by calling the phone number on the back of your eligible Card) or when Companion Platinum Card Members on such Platinum Card Accounts pay for eligible prepaid bookings for The Hotel Collection made through American Express Travel (meaning through amextravel.com, the Amex® App, or by calling the phone number on the back of your eligible Card). Please note, access to the benefit may take up to 24 hours to take effect on your Card after Account opening. Purchases by both the Basic Card Member and any Additional Card Members on the Card Account are eligible for statement credits. However, the total amount of statement credits for eligible purchases will not exceed $200 per calendar year, per Card Account. Fine Hotels + Resorts® program bookings may be made only by eligible U.S. Consumer Basic Platinum and Additional Platinum Card Members. The Hotel Collection bookings may be made by eligible U.S. Consumer Basic and Additional Platinum Card Members and Companion Platinum Card Members on the Platinum Card Account. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Card Members are not eligible for the benefit. To receive the statement credits, an eligible Card Member must make a new booking using their eligible Card through American Express Travel on or after July 1st, 2021, that is prepaid (referred to as "Pay Now" on amextravel.com and the Amex App), for a qualifying stay at an available, participating Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection property. Bookings of The Hotel Collection require a minimum stay of two consecutive nights. Eligible bookings must be processed before December 31st, 11:59PM Central Time, each calendar year to be eligible for statement credits within that year. Eligible bookings do not include interest charges, cancellation fees, property fees or other similar fees, or any charges by a property to you (whether for your booking, your stay or otherwise).  

Statement credits are typically received within a few days, however it may take 90 days after an eligible prepaid hotel booking is charged to the Card Account. American Express relies on the merchant’s processing of transactions to determine the transaction date. The transaction date may differ from the date you made the purchase if, for example, there is a delay in the merchant submitting the transaction to us or if the merchant uses another date as the transaction date. This means that in some cases your purchase may not earn the statement credit benefit for the benefit period in which you made the purchase. For example, if an eligible purchase is made on December 31st but the merchant processes the transaction such that it is identified to us as occurring on January 1st, then the statement credit available in the next calendar year will be applied. Statement credits may not be received or may be reversed if the booking is cancelled or modified. If the Card Account is canceled or past due, it may not qualify to receive a statement credit. If American Express does not receive information that identifies your transaction as eligible, you will not receive the statement credits. For example, your transaction will not be eligible if it is a booking: (i) made with a property not included in the Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection programs, (ii) not made through American Express Travel, or (iii) not made with an eligible Card. Participating properties and their availability are subject to change. If American Express, in its sole discretion, determines that you have engaged in or intend to engage in any manner of abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with this benefit, American Express will not have an obligation to provide and may reverse any statement credits provided to you. If a charge for an eligible purchase is included in a Pay Over Time balance on your Card Account, the statement credit associated with that charge may not be applied to that Pay Over Time balance. Instead, the statement credit may be applied to your Pay In Full balance. Please refer to  AmericanExpress.com/FHR  and  AmericanExpress.com/HC  for more information about Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection, respectively. 

5X Membership Rewards ®  Points Platinum Card:  Basic Card Members will get 1 Membership Rewards ®  point for each dollar charged for eligible purchases on their Platinum Card ®  or an Additional Card on their Account and 4 additional points (for a total of 5 points) for each dollar charged for eligible travel purchases on any Card on the Account (“Additional Points”), minus cancellations and credits. Eligible travel purchases are limited to: (i) purchases of air tickets on scheduled flights, of up to $500,000 in charges per calendar year, booked directly with passenger airlines or through American Express Travel (by calling 1-800-525-3355 or through AmexTravel.com); (ii) purchases of prepaid hotel reservations booked through American Express Travel; and (iii) purchases of prepaid flight+hotel packages booked through AmexTravel.com. Eligible travel purchases do not include: charter flights, private jet flights, flights that are part of tours, cruises, or travel packages (other than prepaid flight+hotel packages booked through AmexTravel.com), ticketing or similar service fees, ticket cancellation or change fees, property fees or similar fees, hotel group reservations or events, interest charges, or purchases of cash equivalents. Eligible prepaid hotel bookings or prepaid flight+hotel bookings that are modified directly with the hotel will not be eligible for Additional Points.

Bonuses that may be received with your Card on other purchase categories or in connection with promotions or offers from American Express cannot be combined with this benefit. Any portion of a charge that the Basic Card Member elects to cover through redemption of Membership Rewards points is not eligible to receive points. Additional terms and restrictions apply.

Merchants are assigned codes based on what they primarily sell. We group certain merchant codes into categories that are eligible for Additional Points. A purchase with a merchant will not earn Additional Points if the merchant’s code is not included in an Additional Points category. Basic Card Members may not receive Additional Points if we receive inaccurate information or are otherwise unable to identify your purchase as eligible for an Additional Points category. For example, you may not receive Additional Points when: a merchant uses a third-party to sell their products or services, a merchant uses a third-party to process or submit your transaction to us (e.g., using mobile or wireless card readers), or you choose to make a purchase using a third-party payment account or make a purchase using a mobile or digital wallet.

To be eligible for this benefit, the Card Account must not be cancelled. If American Express, in its sole discretion, determines that you have engaged in or intend to engage in any manner of abuse, misuse, or gaming in connection with this benefit in any way American Express may remove access to this benefit from the Account. For additional information, call the number on the back of your Card or visit americanexpress.com/rewards-info for more information about rewards.

5X Membership Rewards Points for Business Platinum Card:  You will get one point for each dollar charged for an eligible purchase on your Business Platinum Card ®  from American Express. You will get 4 additional points (for a total of 5 points) for each dollar spent on eligible travel purchases. Eligible travel purchases include scheduled flights and prepaid flight+hotel packages made online at AmexTravel.com, minus returns and other credits. Additionally, eligible travel purchases include prepaid hotel purchases made through American Express Travel, over the phone with our Travel Consultants or made online at AmexTravel.com, minus returns and other credits. Eligible travel purchases do NOT include non-prepaid hotel bookings, scheduled flights and prepaid flight+hotel packages over the phone, vacation packages, car rentals, cruise, hotel group reservations or events, ticketing service, cancellation or other fees, interest charges, purchases of travelers checks, purchases or reloading of prepaid cards, or purchases of other cash equivalents. To be eligible for the 5x Membership Rewards ®  points, you must both reserve and charge the travel purchase with the same eligible Business Platinum Card ® . To modify a reservation you must cancel and rebook your reservation. You can cancel and rebook your reservation on AmexTravel.com or by calling a representative of AmexTravel.com at 1-800-297-2977. Cancellations are subject to hotel cancellation penalty policies. If hotel reservations are made or modified directly with the hotel provider, the reservation will not be eligible for this 5X Membership Rewards ®  point benefit. To be eligible to receive extra points, Card account(s) must not be cancelled or past due at the time of extra points fulfillment. If booking is cancelled, the extra points will be deducted from the Membership Rewards account. Extra points will be credited to the Membership Rewards account approximately 6-10 weeks after eligible purchases appear on the billing statement. Bonuses you may receive with your Card on other purchase categories or in connection with promotions or offers from American Express may not be combined with this benefit. The benefits associated with the Additional Card(s) you choose may be different than the benefits associated with your basic Card. To learn about the benefits associated with Additional Card(s) you choose, please call the number on the back of your Card.

Merchants are assigned codes based on what they primarily sell. We group certain merchant codes into categories that are eligible for additional points. A purchase with a merchant will not earn additional points if the merchant’s code is not included in an additional points category. You may not receive additional points if we receive inaccurate information or are otherwise unable to identify your purchase as eligible for an additional points category. For example, you may not receive additional points when: a merchant uses a third-party to sell their products or services; or a merchant uses a third-party to process or submit your transaction to us (e.g., using mobile or wireless card readers); or you choose to make a purchase using a third-party payment account or make a purchase using a mobile or digital wallet.

Please visit  americanexpress.com/rewards-info  for more information about rewards.

Pay with Points:  To use Pay with Points, you must charge your eligible purchase through American Express Travel to a Membership Rewards ®  program-enrolled American Express ®  Card. Eligible purchases through American Express Travel exclude non-prepaid car rentals and non-prepaid hotels. Points will be debited from your Membership Rewards account, and credit for corresponding dollar amount will be issued to the American Express Card account used. If points redeemed do not cover entire amount, the balance of purchase price will remain on the American Express Card account. Minimum redemption 5,000 points.

See  membershiprewards.com/terms  for the Membership Rewards program terms and conditions.

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Car Rental Privileges: Avis, Hertz, National: Consumer Platinum Card® Members, Corporate Platinum Card® Members and Business Platinum Card® Members are eligible to receive complimentary status in the following programs: Avis Preferred®, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®, and/or National Car Rental® Emerald Club. Additional Platinum Card Members on Consumer and Business Platinum Accounts are also eligible for this benefit. Companion Platinum Cards® on Consumer Platinum Card Accounts and Additional Gold and Additional Business Expense Cards on Business Platinum Card Accounts are not eligible to receive this benefit. Benefits provided to Platinum Card Members are subject to each car rental company’s terms and conditions, including age restrictions, and require enrollment in each car rental program through your American Express online account to receive benefits. Payment must be made using the Platinum Card. Platinum Card Members are required to enroll in Avis Preferred, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Emerald Club memberships to receive the car rental program benefits. Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® is a registered trademark of Hertz System, Inc. Minimum rental age is 25 (exceptions apply). Minimum age to join Hertz Gold Plus Rewards is 21. Standard rental terms and conditions apply. National collects Frequent Flyer Tax Recoupment Surcharge to cover the federal tax on the cost of the miles awarded at the time of rental. Discount applies to base rate only. Taxes (including GST), other governmentally authorized or imposed surcharges, license recoupment/air tax recovery and concession recoupment fees, airport and airport facility fees, fuel, additional driver fee, one-way rental charge, and optional items are extra. Renter must meet applicable age, driver, and credit requirements. Advance reservation required. May not be combined with other discounts. Availability is limited. Subject to change without notice. Blackout dates may apply. National’s Emerald Club and Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and their services require a signed Master Rental Agreement to be on file. Please note that the Car Rental Privileges program available to Platinum Card Members is a separate program from the Premium Car Rental Protection insurance product offered by American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. and underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

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Are These the Best RV Road Trips in the U.S.?

We’re always trying to bring you great routes to travel, but we just came across a list of what just may be the best rv road trips in the u.s..

• 1 We’re always trying to bring you great routes to travel, but we just came across a list of what just may be the best RV road trips in the U.S.
• 2 National Parks & Highway 12 (Salt Lake City to Grand Canyon)
• 3 The Blues Highway (Nashville to New Orleans)
• 4 Pacific Coast Highway (California)
• 5 Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon)
• 6 The Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West of U.S. Highway 1
• 7 What About the Florida Keys?
• 8 Blue Ridge Parkway (West Virginia to Tennessee)
• 9 Adirondacks (NYC to The Finger Lakes)
• 10 Ohio’s Amish Country Byway (Ohio)
• 11 Black to Yellow Route (Wyoming)
• 12.1 CLICK HERE to read a fascinating mystery you can learn about on the Natchez Trace involving Meriwether Lewis, of Lewis and Clark fame
• 13 New ebook from Mike and Jennifer Wendland – the Natchez Trace

The list we’re talking about was compiled by the good folks at TripSavvy.com . To make it easy for you to read, we put the list below.

Of course, the proverbial $64 million question is: are these actually the best RV road trips in the U.S.? Let us know in the comments below!

National Parks & Highway 12 (Salt Lake City to Grand Canyon)

Drivers who head southbound from Salt Lake City, Utah will pass a playground of gorgeous national parks stretching to neighboring Arizona. Highway 12 Scenic Byway is a 122.9-mile route that’s regarded as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. It is a designated “All-American Road” that stretches from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon National Parks. That means a wide range of breathtaking views, from desert red rock and alpine forest.

Visitors might want to consider a stop at Anasazi State Park and the Anasazi ruins that date back to 1050 A.D. and are located in Boulder, Utah. Continue on to the incredible Grand Staircase-Escalante where you might want to consider parking your RV for the night at Yonder Escalante , which offers plenty of RV sites. From there, continue on with visits to Bryce and Zion National Parks, before finishing at the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

The Blues Highway (Nashville to New Orleans)

Highway 61 is also known as “The Blues Highway.” It is recognized as the famous road written about by dozens of blues artists, and road trippers will travel through a piece of history and enjoy a wide variety of scenic views.

Starting in Nashville (which we documented a trip to a while ago here ), home to country music’s most famous stage and the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum , continue on to Memphis, where Elvis Presley fans can fully immerse themselves in the King of Rock n Roll’s life. After a visit to Graceland , head on to Mississippi and finally New Orleans, where the French Quarter has long inspired musicians, writers, and artists.

Pacific Coast Highway (California)

Stretching along most of California’s coast, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the best-known coastal drives in the country. RVers who start in Dana Point, California will travel through Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and San Francisco. Road travelers will pass stunning cliffs, the iconic Hearst Castle, and redwood forests. Many consider a hike down Fern Canyon , where part of “Jurassic Park: Lost World” was filmed, a must. Be sure to check out some of these previous RV Lifestyle posts for more.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon)

Looking for an alternative to the PCH that's just as jaw-dropping as the famous California drive? Try Oregon. Starting in Astoria, RVers will travel down the Oregon coast for 363 miles before ending near Brookings. Along the way, travelers will pass by endless options for sand and surf, including Cannon Beach and Whaleshead Beach. Hikers may want to spent some time in less-crowded state parks, like Cape Lookout and Samuel Boardman State Scenic Corridor, or walk under the world’s largest eucalyptus tree (at almost 70 feet tall) along Myrtle Tree Trail .

The Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West of U.S. Highway 1

U.S. Highway 1 is the ideal choice for those looking to experience picturesque views of pristine beaches, sunsets, and palm trees as they pass through charming cities and end at one of the most scenic drives in the nation. Begin with some golf in St. Petersburg at the historic Vinoy Renaissance Resort and Golf Club before heading south to Cape Coral where you can take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Head to Fort Lauderdale for picturesque sunsets, then on through the swaying coconut palms of Islamorada. Finally, you will drive across the Overseas Highway and the crystal clear waters of the Florida Keys, ending in Key West.

What About the Florida Keys ?

Do you want to hit Key West, the Everglades National Park, and all the other great things the Keys have to offer? Well, we have just the thing for you. Jennifer and I love traveling to the Keys, so we've created a complete 7-Day RV Adventure Guide: Florida Keys . This downloadable guide includes a suggested itinerary and a list of the best RV parks along the way.

We also have a 7 -Day RV Adventure Guide to Florida's Atlantic Coast and Florida's Gulf Coast . If you're interested in all three, you should check out our Florida RV Travel Guide Bundle .

Blue Ridge Parkway (West Virginia to Tennessee)

It's not hard to see why the Blue Ridge Parkway has the nickname of “America's Favorite Drive.” The 469-mile route offers the best of the Appalachian range, connecting Virginia's Shenandoah National Park with North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Suggested route: Start at the northern entrance in Rockfish Gap, Virginia, then drive south, passing through Roanoke before entering North Carolina. Of course, Asheville is a popular stop.

Adirondacks (NYC to The Finger Lakes)

We have fallen in love with the Adirondacks and New York State. There are mountains, raging rivers, deep gorges, gorgeous lakes and hiking that can’t be beat. Then there is the beautiful Finger Lakes area and, of course, America’s top-rated state park, Letchworth State Park.

Covering a whopping 6 million acres, the world is your oyster when it comes to the outdoors and there's no shortage of hiking and biking trails as well as intimate villages and historical sites.

Along the way, RVers can visit numerous vineyards with tasting rooms in the Finger Lakes wine region. After a beautiful drive through New York state’s rolling hills, RVers will enter the quaint village of Aurora and feel at ease with the calming waters of Cayuga Lake and pristinely restored historic homes that make up the lakeside luxury boutique resort at the Inns of Aurora.

Be sure to check out our Adirondack RV Adventure video below!

Ohio’s Amish Country Byway (Ohio)

Amish Country Byway in Ohio boasts views of natural landscape along winding curves and rolling hills that make it one of the most beautiful backdrops for a road trip. It’s a charming country byway that will offer a great selection of Amish country cooking, old-world artisan shops, and historic sites detailing the history of Amish and German people. Those who feel adventurous might want to get out and explore the Mohican-Memorial State Forest for a few hours.

Black to Yellow Route (Wyoming)

The Black to Yellow Route starts on I-90 traveling from Wyoming’s Black Hills in the northeastern corner to Yellowstone National Park in the northwest portion of the state. The route allows road travelers to see the nation’s first national monument and first national park while enjoying charming towns and scenic byways along the way. Consider a stop in Sheridan, a beautiful small town filled with western history (including The Mint Bar, which was built in 1907 and became a famous cowboy bar) and a growing brewery and distillery scene. You will likely also want to spend some time in Cody. Be sure to check out a video we did on Cody below!

Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi to Tennessee)

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile recreational road and scenic drive through three states. It roughly follows the “Old Natchez Trace” a historic travel corridor used by American Indians, “Kaintucks,” European settlers, slave traders, soldiers, and future presidents. Today, people can enjoy not only a scenic drive but also hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping along the parkway.

Explore the many waterfalls including Fall Hollow Waterfall and Jackson Falls, where you can stretch your legs and go for a cool swim. Quaint towns like Leiper’s Fork offer plenty, such as unique galleries and artisanal boutiques. at the Loveless Café on milepost 444 is a must—this former roadside motel serves fluffy biscuits, pies, and iconic Southern cooking. 

CLICK HERE to read a fascinating mystery you can learn about on the Natchez Trace involving Meriwether Lewis, of Lewis and Clark fame

New ebook from mike and jennifer wendland – the natchez trace.

The Natchez Trace Parkway  will capture your imagination, soothe your jangled travel nerves, open your mind and inspire you with the history that unfolded along its 444 miles.

Each of the 7 Days of the ebook has:

• Suggested Mileposts to explore
• Places to Eat in each area of the 7 sections
• Campground descriptions and links
• Links to all the special places and information
• Links to videos that show more in detail
• and a lot of highlighted information for each section

PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a printed, hard copy guide.

Whether you want to follow the footsteps of explorers, discover natural beauty, or visit historic sites, the Trace has something to grab your attention and leave you eager to see what’s at the next milepost.

You can see why this is one of our favorite US routes to explore.  We’ve traveled it a half dozen times!

Published on 2022-07-20

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

4 Responses to “Are These the Best RV Road Trips in the U.S.?”

July 21, 2022at8:56 am , Paulette Burdick said:

Please stop the political adds and the advertising that is devisive.

July 22, 2022at4:09 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Hi Paulette – Mike does not permit any political ads on his site. Zero. So if you are seeing political ads, that is because you must have visited some sort of political site, and are being tracked that way. The dynamic ad placements are based on the viewers search history- so that is why you are seeing them. Hope that helps – Team RV Lifestyle

July 21, 2022at8:18 am , Joan Harman said:

RE: The Blue Ridge Parkway article-I think you mean to say westERN Virginia and not West Virginia. The Blue Ridge Parkway does not cross into WV (unfortunately).

July 22, 2022at12:26 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

thanks for that typo catch – will share so we can fix! Team RV Lifestyle

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 Everything You Need To Know About RV Detailing

• Maintenance, Modifications and Repairs

How To Start Detailing Your RV

Surprisingly, everything you need to know about RV detailing boils down to four simple things: motivation, time, tools, and materials. We will take a closer and provide everything you need to detail your RV like a pro. But before we dive in, let’s get a better understanding of the project itself.

I want to set the stage and talk about what detailing is with respect to your RV. First off, just think of the last time your car was detailed. Generally speaking, car detailing is checking off a list of areas.

For example:

• Vacuum the seats, carpets, and entire interior
• Clean and polish the dashboard, vents, instruments, and trim
• Wipe down all cloth, leather, and floor mats
• Go over the inside and outside of all windows
• Wash, dry, and wax the exterior
• Clean and polish all tires and rims

That is a very simple and basic list. Not so bad…right? I mean, it is the exact same procedure for the RV.

Car versus RV detailing

The difference between the car and RV detailing is dramatic…the size of the RV detail project is enormous. With that in mind, the only thing to know about RV detailing is this: unlike detailing a car, the RV detailing experience can be brutal and exhausting. And it’s highly doubtful it will be completed in a few hours, let alone a few days. After a few years of ownership, you may have noticed beyond camping, a significant amount of time and money is devoted to equipment and repairs.

An RV is a gigantic home on wheels, and more often than not, with each mile driven, something is coming loose to some degree. Seams separate, and crud, road grime, and bug guts are entombed with precision on the grill, lights, back of mirrors, and any other forward-facing parts of the RV…and that is just the exterior.

Similarly, the interior of the RV is a gigantic container of dust, small rocks, pet hair, crumbs, dried dead bugs, unidentifiable stains on the countertop, black crust scorched into the stovetop from food eaten long ago, and…one lost, dirty kid sock.

Know what you want out of detailing your RV

All in all, objectively look at your RV. Take note of what you see and at the same time embrace how it makes you feel. The time and money spent on detailing is an investment devoted to future trips and memorable moments with family and friends.

After all, everything you need to know about RV detailing boils down to how it looks when the glistening behemoth lumbers round the campground saying to everyone there…look at me…MY 5-Star Hotel Room on Wheels…looking good!!

Know how to get ideas, tools and products to detail your RV

All things considered, look around for other ideas, tools, and products for detailing your RV. There is no lack of ideas, how to videos and relevant websites to explore. First thing to remember, RVers are smart and savvy. Above all, they know how to save time and money making the old RV look new again.

Break your products down into two categories. Interior. Exterior. That is to say, look around for the best products and don’t overlook what others have used. In other words, do research before starting. There are smart and savvy RVers on forums such as IRV2. Take some time to look through. 

Know your limitations 

To be sure, unlike detailing a car, everything you need to know about RV detailing can be exhausting. Whenever you undertake this yourself, you will save money since professional detailing of something this massive will cost you a bundle. 

A complete detail of the exterior includes: washing; waxing; as-needed resealing roof, window and side walls; cleaning awnings; dressing tires; and steam cleaning the engine and generator compartments

A complete detail of the interior is nothing short of a thorough deep cleaning: wiping, washing, dusting, and vacuuming the seats, carpets, and entire interior top to bottom. Then you should clean and polish the dashboard, vents, instruments, and trim, plus tend to the upholstery, ceilings, shower, toilet, sinks, and drawer and closet interiors.

On the other hand, with prices for everything going up, professional detailing is not immune. Typically, most places charge per linear foot, or they offer several packages to choose from. Either way it means you will be paying anywhere between $500 and $1,500 depending on detailing limited to exterior, interior, or both. Also there are mobile detailing/cleaning contractors.  

I can only tell you that the taste of satisfaction erupts when you step back and witness previously subdued points along the surface burst forward in bold detail. And that’s to say nothing of, fresh, sparkling, colorful parts coming together against the background canvas of YOUR glistening RV all mounted on squeaky-clean wheels and tires. 

Detailing your RV is prevention

Once you get your RV looking new again, plan time for yearly detailing and waxing. As much as you would want to, there is no way of maintaining your RV in perfect condition. In spite of that, you can meticulously maintain it . At the same time, once you establish a great base coat of wax, it becomes easier and quicker to refresh it each time.

A secondary plus of detailing your RV is prevent defense. To put it differently, since you are up close and personal, you inspect the health of corner seams, the wear and tear of all window seals, look for hints of delamination top to bottom, and find any other issues along the way. Above all, don’t overlook high impact areas: cargo door latches, entry steps, slide out-covers, and window weep holes . 

Your RV looking good is sustained through countless cycles of a maintenance routine. Given these points, you are investing in future trips and memorable moments with family and friends. After all, no matter where you get your products, exercise thoughtfulness while you cook up your shopping list.

Finally, everything you need to know about detailing your RV is this: every RV owner should take enormous pride in the glistening behemoth lumbering around the campground saying to everyone there…look at me…MY 5-Star Hotel Room on Wheels has arrived. 

Once done, take a step back and admire your hard work. Snap tons of pictures and share it on IR2 Forum – What did you do to your RV today? ALL that hard work deserves a spotlight. 

Make sure you keep track of all your RV maintenance and repairs with an online tool such as RV LIFE Maintenance . Not only can you keep all of your documents in one place, but you’ll also receive timely reminders when maintenance is due to help you avoid costly repairs and potentially serious accidents.