rv trip united states

Travels with Ted

10 Epic Bucket List RV Road Trips in the US

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I’ve lived in an RV since 2016 and traveled thousands of miles across the country (and into Mexico and Canada). 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 are 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.

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

Many or all of the products on this page are from partners who compensate us when you click to or take an action on their website, but this does not influence our evaluations or ratings. Our opinions are our own.

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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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.

• Books & Merch
• Gear We Use
• National & State Parks
• Best RV Campgrounds in New Hampshire
• Best RV Campgrounds in NC Mountains
• Best Florida Beach RV Campgrounds
• South Dakota
• The Great Lakes
• Campers Swear By This Portable Device That Keeps Dogs Safe -The Best Portable Dog Fence for Camping (2024)
• Mosquitos and bugs
• Camping Clothes
• Camping Gifts
• Camping Internet
• 5 Best RV Backup Cameras for RV & Trailer
• 7 Best Screen Tents for Camping (2024)
• Best RV Campgrounds in California
• 5 Best Key West RV Parks
• 9 Best RV Campgrounds in New Jersey
• Camping Reservations
• Campground Comparisons
• Cheap or FREE RV Camping Sites
• Best RV Campground Memberships & Clubs
• Boondocking 101
• Boondocking Adventures
• RV Internet
• What Do Flamingos and Upside Down Pineapples Mean?
• Where to Find FREE or Cheap RV Sites Camping
• RV Winter Camping
• RV Show List for 2024
• 17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)

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

Comments are closed.

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Best RV Trips in the USA

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2024

Finding the best RV trips in the USA can be a challenge, but we share some of our favorite destinations to road trip in the US.

In an age where the aroma of adventure is fresher than the morning dew, RV travel has emerged as the flag-bearer of freewheeling exploration.

From bustling metropolises to the forgotten byways of the heartland, there’s nothing quite like the open road to fuel the soul. In this expansive guide, we are set to unfurl the country’s most enchanting canvas for RV enthusiasts, the United States.

Buckle up as we traverse the length and breadth of the nation’s most alluring landscapes, peppered with personal anecdotes, insider knowledge, and a passion for the road less traveled.

Why an RV Trip?

It’s not hard to see why RVing is rolling along so nicely these days. There’s a big sky full of reasons, five of which we’ll park right here.

1. Connect With Nature Without the Hassle

In a time-starved society, connecting with nature is like finding a deserted island in a tempest. RVs make the tranquility of wilderness accessible; they’re the Noah’s Ark for modern explorers, providing shelter and spectacle all at once.

With a self-contained home on wheels, there’s no need for tent-pitching marathons or packing and unpacking rituals. Nature’s at your doorstep and convenience is king.

2. Affordability and Flexibility That Breaks Travel Barriers

The new wanderlust anthem is sung with an RV key, unlocking destinations that may have remained dreams due to budget constraints. Their cost efficiency, coupled with unmatched flexibility in travel plans, allows people to chase horizons that once seemed pinned to the sky. The road becomes not just a pathway, but a liberating equation of time and cost.

3. Eco-Friendly Exploring

The green in traveling is usually a sign of seasickness, yet the verdant ties of RVs to eco-friendliness are undeniable.

With modern RVs featuring energy-efficient systems and the ability to venture off the beaten path without a carbon counterpart, they’re the new envoys of sustainable exploration. Where once gas-guzzling was the only road song, now efficiency and ecology lead the chorus.

4. The Luxury of a Home Away from Home

An RV is your home on wheels , wrapping you in familiar comforts as you roam. Boasting facilities for sleeping, whipping up your favorite meals, and taking a refreshing shower, it’s a blessing for groups and families. Substantial savings on hefty hotel and restaurant bills make it a wallet-friendly travel alternative.

5. Family Togetherness and Breathtaking Views

In an RV, the greatest sanctuary is the compound of your family, and the greatest gallery is the scenery that passes you by.

The road trip is the perennial Pilgrim’s Progress, where the stories shared and the sights seen etch memories that become the legends of your family lore. It’s an odyssey not just of distance, but of connection – connection to each other and the world outside.

Finding Your Perfect RV

Your RV travel adventures start with a good, reliable campervan.

If you’re looking to purchase or rent a new or second-hand RV, selecting the perfect campervan is crucial for optimizing your travel experience.

Check out a vast array of RVs on RVezy , an expansive platform for buying and leasing recreational vehicles. The platform offers a broad range of RVs from indulgent motorhomes to compact campervans that cater to various travel preferences and financial plans.

5 Best RV Trips Across the US

Get ready to kickstart your adventure boots, for we’re about to dive into the absolute must-do RV trips across the majestic US expanses!

1. Pacific Coast Highway: The Rhapsody of the Golden State

The Pacific Coast Highway , or the PCH, is more than just a road; it’s a serenade stitched in the cliffs of California. Starting in Orange County and ending at Leggett in Mendocino County, this winding marvel takes you through the heart of the Golden State, where beaches meet boulevards, and mountains whisper to the sea.

It’s a photograph that extends beyond the frame, with every twist and turn revealing a surprise collage of the iconic to the obscure. Hear the bark of the sea lions at San Simeon, marvel at the majesty of Big Sur , and lose track of time as the sun sinks into the ocean at Eureka.

California is home to some of the most unique hotels in the US , so make sure to stay in at least one of the quirky hotels in the state during your travel.

2. The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee, and North Carolina

If there’s a patch of paradise caught between states, it’s the Great Smoky Mountains. Embroidered monoliths shrouded in their eponymous mist beckon the intrepid RVer to an Appalachian ballet of beauty.

Follow the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic route that spans remarkably intact mountain forests. From the charm of Gatlinburg to the silent coves of Fontana, every step is a pageant of the Southern spirit.

Tasting a hot moonshine sip in the mountain hamlets or stopping by the Clingman Dome for a celestial portal above the clouds, the Great Smokies cast a spell that lingers long after the tires have turned. It’s truly a trip like no other!

3. Fall Foliage Tour of New England

In the Northeast, as summer is kissed goodbye, fall ushers in a theatrical transformation. New England must be on your US bucket list ; with its storied history and palette of turning leaves, hosts a festival that’s seemingly painted by the heavens.

Start your expedition in the crown of Maine , and weave your way down the coast, through the heart of New Hampshire and Vermont, crossing the fertile fields of Massachusetts and Connecticut before the final bow in Rhode Island.

The route is akin to an evolving fresco, as maple and oak trees unveil their kaleidoscope costumes. It’s a sensory overload – pause to sip cider in picture-perfect towns, listen to the stories of covered bridges, and savor the ephemeral beauty of nature’s grand finale.

4. The Florida Keys and Overseas Highway Adventure

Conjure the quintessential image of the RV lifestyle, and you might just frame it in the Florida Keys . A chain of sophisticated island sways linked by the Overseas Highway, the experience here is the epitome of laid-back luxury.

Start in Key Largo, the gateway to the Keys, and traverse the magic that is the Highway; a sun-soaked ribbon that defies the ocean.

Each island presents a melange of maritime charisma – weathered fisherman’s haunts, coral cays ripe for snorkeling, and the indomitable spirit of Key West .

The Conch Republic is a destination unlike any other, where the sunsets are celebrated in a daily parade down Duval Street and the fragrance of island blossoms is never far.

5. Alaska’s Seward Highway: The Last Frontier Beckons

Arguably one of the most awe-inspiring drives on the planet, Alaska’s Seward Highway is a portrait of rugged grandeur that whispers a symphony of the sublime.

Starting in Anchorage, traverse the Chugach Mountains and the sparkling shores of Turnagain Arm. The wilderness is your compass, and every mile is a chance to encounter the wild sheep scaling vertiginous crags, orcas breaching the cobalt bay, and bears patrolling the shores, as salmon leap upstream.

The route’s terminus is Seward, a coastal outpost that feels like the edge of the Earth, a portal to glacial cruise and the painting of the northern lights.

Where are you thinking of heading to? Let us know in the comments below!

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The Best RV Road Trip Routes: RVing Across America  

Seeking the best RV road trip routes to experience America’s awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural gems? From the iconic “mother road” Route 66 to the majestic Pacific Coast Highway and an epic tour of all 47 National Parks, there’s a road trip that will fit in any calendar ( and any budget) 

These top seven road trips will get you out on the open road. Before long, you’ll be surrounded by scenic landscapes and ready to make unforgettable memories. 

Get ready to explore cityscapes, natural wonders, and everything in between.

How to Enjoy RV Routes Worry-Free

Before we start, here are a few quick tips to help you enjoy your journey.

• Plan the right route: Before starting your trip, ensure your route is suitable for an RV your size. Next, confirm that you can complete the route in a reasonable time frame. You don’t want to drive all that way, but not have time to stop and savor the sights.
• Be prepared for unexpected stops: It’s inevitable. Something will go wrong with your RV on a road trip. So plan ahead. If you’re the handy type known for fixing up cars, then bring your tools along–or just secure roadside assistance through AAA or GoodSam . That way, you’ll have someone who can help if/when something goes awry. 
• Take your time: When you get to your destinations. Give yourself ample time to soak in the area, the beauty, and the culture of your stops. That’s where the real stories happen.

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#7: The Classic: Route 66

Photo courtesy of roadtrippers.com

It’s no longer printed on roadmaps. It can no longer take you all the way from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. But Route 66 is still the epitome of the undying free spirit that moves Americans from east to west and west to east. 

But even though parts of Route 66 are closed now , you can still drive through places like Oatman, Vegas, Springfield, and Galena to experience local attractions, museums, and markets that made the westward move possible. From national monuments like the Gateway in St. Louis, Missouri, to local attractions like the Cadillac Ranch, Route 66 speaks to the soul of every road trip with its novelty, history, and beautiful scenery. 

But before you travel the “Main Street of America,” you should know that there are sections that are in pretty bad shap e. You’ll have to use the interstate for those sections before rejoining the route at a better location. 

Trip Details:

• Distance: 2,448 miles
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 2-8 weeks 
• States crossed : IL, MO, KS, OK, TX, NM, AZ, and CA
• RV recommendation : Any
• Camping accommodations : KOA, Route 66 RV Parks and Resorts

#6: Your Pan-American Tour: US Highway

Photo courtesy of thrifty.com

The Great Northern Route of US Highway 2 is the epic road trip that takes you from sea to shining sea. The longest transcontinental road trip begins at the majestic Acadia National Park in Maine – one of the highest points in the continental US. Then, you’ll follow the trail of great trailblazers Lewis and Clark across to the Pacific Ocean at Olympic National Park. 

Along your 3,600-mile journey, you pass through several other national parks and sacred lands like the Badlands of North Dakota and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. You cross plains, lakes, and the Sawtooth Range until you’ve seen this country from sea to shining sea.

• Distance : 3,600 miles
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 2-4 weeks
• States crossed : ME, NH, VT, NY, MI, WI, MN, ND, MT, ID, and WA
• RV Recommendation : Any
• RV accommodations : Roadside Resorts, National and State Parks.

#5: The National Parks Route

Photo courtesy of drytortugas.com

If you’re an RV explorer who hates missing out on amazing views and breathtaking scenery, this next road trip route is for you. See all 47 National Parks on one epic road trip. 

• Ski down the Y-couloir at Rocky Mountain National Park. 
• Kayak the sea caves along the Acadia Atlantic coast . 
• Find glowing aquatic life as you scuba or snorkel off the Dry Tortugas in the Florida Keys. 
• Watch Old Faith erupt at Yellowstone National Park . 
• Stand in awe at the rim of the Grand Canyon. 

America’s incredible national parks are our national treasures. It’s time we experience what makes them so valuable. And do our part to pass them on to the next generation.

• Distance: 14,498 miles roundtrip 
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 3-4 months+
• States NOT crossed : AL, MS, LA, OK, KS, NE, MO, IA, IL, IN, PA, and VT
• RV Recommendation : Class B , Class C, Class A and travel trailers under 40 ft. 
• RV accommodations : National Parks

…okay, so not many people have 3-4 months to burn on vacation. Or maybe you’re taking the kids and don’t want to be on the road with them that long. 

So here’s a compromise. Take it one state at a time. Starting with Utah’s ‘Mighty Five’ National Parks. 

Save up to $1,200/year on RV storage & parking

#4: mighty five: utah’s national park circuit.

Photo courtesy of Utah.com

The ‘Mighty Five,’ Utah’s National Park Circuit, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Comprising:

• Canyonlands
• Capitol Reef
• Bryce Canyon 
• And Zion National Park

The circuit is a geological wonder, showcasing distinctive arches, canyons, rock formations, and plateaus. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a rock climbing aficionado, or a nature photographer, these parks offer activities to suit every preference. 

What’s more? These parks are close together. So traveling from one to the other is easier for younger children. (That also means you’ll have more time to explore in the parks during your RV trip and spend less time on the road) . 

• Distance: 900 miles 
• Time away (including sightseeing): 10 days-2 weeks
• States crossed: UT
• RV Recommendation: Class B, Class C, Class A, and travel trailers under 40 ft. 

#3: The Civil War Historic Itinerary

Not all RV vacations are for beauty and renewal. Sometimes they’re for teaching and reflecting. That’s what the Civil War Historic Route is for. It is purposefully short, focusing on key battles and points in the Civil War. 

Yes, there is beauty where green fields now lie hallowed by the brave men whose blood consecrated it. But instead of awe and wonder, let it inspire reflection and dedication to the remembrance of history and its lessons – lest we forget. 

Begin in Fredericksburg, where the Confederacy won a lopsided battle, and end at Gettysburg, taking your time in reflection as you retrace one of the bloodiest wars in our history.

• Distance : 140 miles 
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 3-10 days
• States crossed: VA, MD, and PA

#2: The Pacific Coast Highway Getaway

Photo courtesy of valisemag.com

There’s nothing like the open road to leave it all behind, much like there’s nothing like the beach to let it all go. So whatever huge life change you’re going through – a bad breakup, a job loss, a hard death – the perfect road for you is the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s not too sunny when you start in Olympia, Washington– but not too gloomy. 

Enjoy a stroll through the Hoh Rainforest before rolling down the windows and letting the aroma from the fields of sweet mint and lavender waft through your car. Be sure to clear your mind, so you can appreciate the simple beauty of the waves crashing on the rocks by the time you get to Sea Lion Caves. 

As you travel south, through Seattle and Northern California, the sun will begin to peek out, and you can enjoy Humboldt Redwood State Park and west coast sunsets all the way down to San Diego. 

• Distance: 1,675 miles 
• Time away (including sightseeing) : 5-10 days 
• States crossed : WA, OR, and CA
• RV Accommodations : National and State Park Campgrounds, Local RV resorts

#1: Absorb New England in the Fall

Photo courtesy of practicalwanderlust.com

You’ve got time to spare. And you’ve never seen the seasons fade into fall. But now that you’ve got time for a little leaf peeping, what better place than New England and Maine?

You’ll start at Eastport, travel Highway 1 South, and travel down Maine’s rocky coast all the way to Boston. 

The drive itself isn’t long. You could do it in a day if you want. But, instead, take your time stopping at places like Bar Harbor and the Historic Cherry Field – the blueberry capital of the world. 

• RV Recommendation : Class A-C, long trailers may have trouble.
• RV Accommodations : KOA and private RV parks

Before You Set Off on Your Adventure

We’ve traveled from one side of this country to the other–from mountain to coast and from sea to shining sea. And we didn’t even get to talk about what an unforgettable experience the Blue Ridge Parkway holds or the iconic Columbia River Highway – so remember those the next time you’re RV trip planning. 

But even the best RV road trips must come to an end . And as you unpack, you’re thankful that you can make these RV trips with your loved ones. Your RV gives you bonding experiences with those closest to you.

And you want that to last for years to come. 

That’s why, after you clean it out and perform the proper maintenance, you’ll want to look for a safe place to store your RV. 

You’ve been storing it in your backyard. Yet, after talking to other seasoned RVers on this trip, you now realize the importance of covered storage to prevent the oxidation that UV rays cause and lessen the chances of a limb or other debris falling on it and damaging the roof. 

That’s where Neighbor can help. 

Neighbor is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace where you can find safe, affordable storage that’s close to your home. 

You can browse the different spaces near you here .  

So, pack your bags, fuel up your RV, and hit the road. Your next RV adventure awaits!

Related Posts

How to plan a cross-country road trip effortlessly, the ultimate guide & itinerary for your next road trip to alaska, the 10 best road trips in the usa, the best los angeles to las vegas road trip itinerary, the best rv trip planner tools of 2024 (our top recs), the 15 best road trips from los angeles.

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RVing the USA: 48 States in 9 Months

I first learned of the RV lifestyle in college. My professor was a travel writer, and I got the idea while sitting in class, “I want to travel full-time and see all 50 states”.

It was a dream I couldn’t quit, and after years of career changes, saving, and a new fiance, I had a plan.

The new dream: See as many states as we can in our budget-friendly travel trailer with our senior pets, with the goal being all lower 48.

We left Idaho in November 2020, and by August 2021, we were popping champagne in Arkansas, our 48th state together.

Below, we’ll give our best advice, RV travel tips, and route planning hacks for RVing the USA.

Why You Should RV the USA

It’s not all about bragging rights, bucket list adventures, or filling up the sticker map.

It’s better than traveling via airplane.

If you’re wanting to get somewhere fast, one of the best ways is to travel via airplane. But some of our favorite memories were made in those flyover states.

Soaking in historic hot springs in Arkansas and watching fireflies dance over a field in Iowa. You’d miss all of this if you were buzzing by them at 30,000 feet.

It’s better than a road trip in a car.

Imagine never having to worry about forgetting to pack something or wondering if that hotel bed is really clean or not. That’s the benefit of traveling with a home on wheels versus a sedan.

Experiencing different cultures around the U.S.

I feel like I could have an enjoyable conversation with just about anybody in this country. I could bond with a good ol’ boy from Alabama talking about my first crawfish-eating experience while also being able to share my favorite hiking trail with a granola girl from Denver.

Traveling in an RV means meeting more people than you would via airplane or car. You’re hanging out in campgrounds and national parks and spending more time at gas station pumps.

RVs are a great ice breaker for people, and some of the best conversations I’ve ever had have been with other RV owners on a cross-country journey.

Discovering hidden gems.

When you’re traveling in an RV, you tend to go at a slower pace. So you have time to discover those hidden gems around our country.

The billboards start tempting you as you’re cruising along at 55 mph. Before you know it, you’re searching for aliens in Roswell or eating the best chicken fried steak of your life from a drug store in West Texas.

Challenges of RVing across the USA

It’s not all Instagram-worthy sunsets and twirling in wildflowers. RVing across the US is not for the faint of heart.

RVs are not fuel-efficient and tend to have big fuel tanks, so you’ll spend a lot of time and money at the pumps. (Use our RV cost gas calculator to estimate your RV trip fuel cost.)

Moving Too Fast

Moving at a fast pace means you’ll miss lots of things. The biggest regret we have with visiting all lower 48 states in less than a year was we missed so many interesting things we wanted to see!

Whether you’re driving a motorhome or even a camper van, parking tends to be a stressful experience. Plan ahead to ensure you have parking covered for things you want to see on the road.

The RV lifestyle is expensive, especially during the peak season of summer months.

Traveling with Pets

Not everywhere is pet friendly, and although it’s easier to travel with pets in an RV as compared to air or car travel, it still comes with safety concerns and extra planning. (You might also want to check out How to Go RVing with Cats ).

RV Repairs & Maintenance

\When you drive an RV down the road, it goes through the equivalent of a 5.0 earthquake. Things WILL break often, and never at a convenient time. Not to mention you’ll have to budget enough time for routine maintenance such as waxing your RV, greasing your bearings, and changing the oil in your motorhome or tow vehicle.

Should You Buy or Rent an RV?

There are both pros and cons to using an RV rental or purchasing your own RV for a cross-country road trip.

The pros of RV rentals are avoiding maintenance from wear and tear, which could be cheaper than purchasing based on your budget.

The con of RV rentals – it’s not your RV. You can only enjoy the comfort of your home as much as the rental company will allow. No permanent upgrades, painting, or anything that can’t be easily removed from the RV.

A big pro of owning an RV is it’s yours. You get to make your fifth wheel, travel trailer, or motorhome your own and travel with all the comforts of home! You can travel as long as you’d like, with the only time constraint being the ones you set yourself.

The obvious con is the cost of your RV . RVs can cost as little as a few thousand dollars or be more expensive than a house!

How to Plan to RV Across America

Creating a travel itinerary of the United States is no easy task. I sat down with a map of the country and a pencil with the intention of having to stay at least one night in every state.

Here are 5 crucial tips to start planning your RV trip across the US.

1. Research Where You Want to Go

Scroll Instagram for ideas, check Pinterest for inspiration, and read blogs for helpful tips. Make a non-negotiable list of places you have to visit.

2. Check the Weather for that Time of the Year

New England isn’t very enjoyable in January. Instead, plan to visit somewhere warm like the Florida Keys. Avoid Tornado Alley in the spring by enjoying Yellowstone National Park. Arizona in summer isn’t as pleasant as Glacier National Park.

3. Use a Calendar and a Pencil

A calendar will help you better keep track of dates when it comes time to make reservations. I’ve found not to get too attached to a plan until sites are booked, so use a pencil and some patience.

4. Map Your Route

You’re going to want a visual of your route, be sure to factor in elevation and traffic routes. Chances are Google is going to direct you through the heart of Atlanta. Consider an alternate route to a surrounding area to avoid the stress.

5. Research and Book Campgrounds

I personally use Campendium as a starting point to find National Parks, State Parks, RV parks, and free camping options. I then add one-night stops with membership programs such as Harvest Hosts , and Boondockers Welcome. Lastly, I research overnight stay rules in the city I’m interested in visiting to confirm we can use truck stops, Home Depot, Walmart parking lots, and other free overnight options . Then it’s time to book!

Best RV Road Trip Routes

I-40 & i-10.

These main highways that run west and east are the easiest for your first RV road trip, but not as scenic as other choices.

Nevertheless, there are still tons of great places to see along these routes. Including Joshua Tree National Park, Graceland, the Alamo, Saguaro National Park (shown above), and the Grand Ole Opry.

The ultimate road trip. You can still drive portions of the original Mother Road that runs from Chicago to Santa Monica, which have some of the best roadside attractions in the U.S.

Also, the Grand Canyon National Park is only about 60 miles off the route, the perfect place to add to your RV trip bucket list.

PCH (Pacific Coast Highway)

One of the most scenic drives in the U.S., the Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic road trip route that hugs the California coastline. It runs from Dana Point in Southern Cali to Leggett in Northern California (approximately 650 miles).

It’s one of the most challenging drives in an RV and is best done in a small motorhome. Portions of Highway 1 are extremely narrow, with steep cliffs. But you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and gorgeous beaches along the route.

Another iconic scenic coastal route is on the east coast and spans the length of Florida. The A1A stretches from Key West all the way to Fernandina Beach, Florida.

This road trip route offers breathtaking ocean views, charming beach towns, and a glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural beauty. There are many popular locations on this route, so be sure to book campsites early!

READ NEXT: Start planning your RV trip around the county with our nine best RV road trips in the USA .

6 tips for rving the usa.

Here are a few of my best tips for a successful RV trip around the US.

1. BOOK EARLY. This is number one for a reason. RVing has never been more popular!

2. KNOW YOUR RIG. Know both the height and length of your rig, and pay attention to warning signs on the road.

3. TRAVEL SLOW. Low and slow is the name of the game. Plan for short drive days of no more than 250 miles at a time. These travel habits will allow you ample time to enjoy the natural wonders you’re here to see and embrace slow travel.

4. TRAVEL WITH TOOLS. You don’t want to end up on the side of the road unprepared. You’ll need some RV essentials for maintenance and safety on your trip.

5. PAD YOUR SAVINGS. Make sure you have extra savings. You’re going to experience both good and bad unexpected expenses with this RV lifestyle. Tire blowouts, as well as unplanned adventures, are bound to happen.

6. SIGN UP FOR RV MEMBERSHIPS. Save on RV expenses where you can by joining RV discount clubs.

• A Good Sam membership gives you discounts at Camping World and offers fuel discounts at Flying J & Pilot stations.
• Sign up for campground discounts such as Passport America and Thousand Trails to save on camping spot costs.
• Don’t forget to ask for weekly discounts if you stay at a park longer than a week.

Whether it takes you six months or six years to see all lower 48 states, my biggest piece of advice I can give you is JUST DO IT!

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RELATED ARTICLES

• Best RV Road Trips: 9 Top Routes Around the USA
• What Stores Allow Overnight RV Parking?
• Best Discount Fuel Cards for RV Owners & How to Save at the Pump
• An Honest Harvest Hosts Review: Is It Worth It?

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Check out our guide to preparing for full-time RV living, including info on choosing an RV, the pros and cons of the lifestyle, RV gear, and more.

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Kerisa has been traveling the U.S. with her husband and fur kids in their 89 sq. ft. home on wheels since 2020 and has been to all 50 states. She is the copywriter/owner of Outside Voice Collective and blogger at the Traveling Tiongsons. You'll most likely find her behind the wheel on a scenic byway or relaxing around a campfire with a good glass of wine at the end of the day.

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Ultimate RV Trip Planner: A Guide to Planning your RV Road Trip

Post Updated June 2021

This post contains affiliate links, if you click one of them we may receive a small commission at no cost to you. For more information please read our disclaimer on affiliate links .

RV travel is one of the best ways to explore the United States! Planning an RV vacation can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the RV life. Not to worry! Two years of full time RV living taught me how to easily plan an RV adventure, and in this ultimate RV trip planner you’ll find a complete guide to planning your RV road trip!

Best Time to RV Across America

The good news is that you can RV the USA any time of the year. If you want to RV across the whole country then a shoulder season like Fall/Spring is best. Alternatively, you can plan your trip based on my seasonal recommendations for the best RV destinations below!

The best time for your RV vacation will depend on the type of scenery you’re interested in seeing. Below I share the best areas of the country for each season.

If you’d like to include Canada in your RV adventure I highly recommend it. Read about the best Canada road trips !

Summer RV Trips

Summer in the Pacific Northwest is absolutely glorious, and not to be missed. If you want to experience gorgeous forest waterfalls, pristine coastal scenery, and crystal clear mountain lakes then summer in Oregon and Washington is your best bet.

Fall RV Trips

New England is known for it’s striking fall foliage, where the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange, red, and yellow. Fall also brings milder weather to the humid east coast, and it’s a great time to explore the Eastern United States.

Winter RV Trips

Snow and ice make RVing much more difficult so for the winter months I’d recommend heading to the southern USA where temperatures are mild and comfortable.

Southern Florida is a popular winter RV destination, but be prepared to pay high prices for campsites and activities.

If you prefer a more affordable, and, in my opinion, more beautiful option, consider RVing the Southwestern United States. In the Southwest free and cheap campsites are plentiful, the dry air makes outdoor activities easier, and some of the most beautiful desert national parks become more accessible.

Death Valley and Joshua Tree National Parks are two excellent options for a winter RV vacation.

Spring RV Trips

Spring is when the high desert really shines, and this is a perfect time to explore all of the beautiful scenery in Northern Arizona and Utah.

If the Grand Canyon and Utah’s Zion National Park are on your bucket list then a springtime RV trip is the way to go!

Should you Rent an RV or Buy an RV for your RV Trip?

Whether you should rent or buy an RV for your USA RV travel is a very personal question. Here I’ll discuss some of the pros and cons of either choice!

How long is your trip?

If you’re only traveling for a week or two then renting an RV makes the most sense. While renting an RV is the more expensive option, it saves a lot of hassle, and is certainly more simple than purchasing an RV.

RV rentals provide you with the peace of mind that the RV is in good condition, and if you run into any mechanical issues the rental company will have you covered.

If you’re traveling for a month or more then you may want to consider purchasing an RV and re-selling it when you finish traveling. We met many travelers on the road who used this strategy for their RV journeys.

How Much Money can you Invest Upfront in your RV Trip?

The major advantage of purchasing a used RV then re-selling it is the fact that you can save the rental fees so that you will only be paying for travel costs (gas, campsites, etc), since you will recoup the cost of the RV at the end of your trip.

The downside to purchasing an RV rather than renting is that you will likely need more money upfront, and you will need to educate yourself on what to look for in a used RV. However, when you’re considering a savings of $7,000 or more (the amount you can expect to spend on a one month RV rental), it may be worth the extra hassle to buy and sell rather than rent.

Where to Rent an RV?

If you decide that RV rental is the best option for your trip then I recommend checking out the rentals on Outdoorsy.

Outdoorsy is a company that manages the rental of privately owned RVs when the owners are not using them.

Renting with Outdoorsy tends to be quite a bit cheaper than renting with a traditional RV rental company, and since you’re renting privately owned RVs you will have lots of different makes and models to choose from.

For more information check out this complete guide to RV rental in the USA!

Best RVs for Families, Singles, or Couples

Whether you’ve decided to rent an RV or purchase an RV for your RVing adventure, you’ll want to consider the type of RV that best meets your needs. RVs come in many shapes and sizes, and the RV you choose will directly impact the cost of your vacation, as well as the types of campsites you can visit on your travels.

Best RV for Family of 4

For families with children, a traditional motorhome makes the most sense, because they tend to provide the most space and the most sleeping options.

Class C motorhomes are an excellent option for families because they feature an over-cab bed that really makes the most of the space in the RV (plus kids love to sleep in these fun, lofted beds).

There are plenty of decent Class C motorhomes on the market, and if you’re purchasing an RV you should be able to find one for less than $20,000. Lazy Daze, Gulf Stream, and Jamboree are all brands to keep an eye out for when you’re searching for your class C RV.

Best RV for Couples

If you’re planning to travel as a couple, and you’re going to purchase an RV, then I am definitely partial to Toyota motorhomes for roadtripping the USA. Toyota motorhomes are micro-RVs, which means they are about the same size as a campervan but thanks to an over-cab bed they feel much more spacious than a campervan.

Read about why we chose a Toyota Motorhome for our RV travels here!

Toyota motorhomes are the best small RV, and they also hold their value well, making them easy to re-sell quickly. The downside to Toyota motorhomes is their age, as the last ones were built in 1993. This means that you need to VERY thoroughly inspect a Toyota motorhome before purchasing it.

If you’d prefer to purchase (or rent) something newer, a campervan is the best RV choice for a couple. Campervans have exploded in popularity lately, and for good reason! Campervans are smaller than traditional RVs, which means they are easier to drive, easier to park, and they get better gas milage than a motorhome.

Campervans are also cheaper than a motorhome, so you can easily find one for less than $15,000 if you’re planning to purchase an RV for your trip. Trusted campervan brands in that price range include Road Trek, Dodge Pleasure Way, and Horizon.

If you’re planning to rent an RV, Outdoorsy features LOTS of campervans, and they are cheaper to rent than a motorhome!

Best RV for Singles

If you’re planning to take a solo RV trip then your options are endless because the smallest RV options will work for you.

Campervans, converted mini-vans, SUVs with rooftop tents, and truck campers are all excellent choices for solo travelers since you won’t need as much space as a couple or family would. You can easily find an RV in this category for around $10,000.

If you’re renting an RV, you will be able to find most of these options on Outdoorsy, especially campervans!

For detailed information on all of the different types of campers, tips for purchasing a camper, and the very best tips and tricks for long term RV travel check out my Ebook- Nomads in Campers: A Step by Step Guide to Living Your Nomadic Adventure.

RV Trip Planner Apps

There are a few apps that make RV trip planning a breeze, and that we use CONSTANTLY on our RV road trips. If you’re the RV road trip planner for your family, then you need these four apps!

Google Maps

This is an app that most people already have on their phone, and if you don’t it’s free to download.

Click here to download Google Maps for Android , and click here to download Google Maps for Apple IOS .

After trying several different mapping apps that claimed to be “the best”, we always found ourselves using Google Maps as our primary mapping app. Google Maps has the most data of any mapping app, and that really makes a difference when you’re in remote areas of the US.

A sweet hack for Google Maps is to check when you’re going to lose cell phone coverage (use the next app in our list for this), and before you reach that point have Google Maps start the directions to your destination. Once you lose coverage Google Maps will still pick up your GPS signal, and it will complete the directions even though you no longer have cell service!

Maps.Me is a great secondary app for when you will be outside cellular coverage for long periods of time. It allows you to download maps to access when you’re offline.

Occasionally we will spend several days in an area with no cellular coverage, and in those cases Maps.Me is great as long as we remembered to download a map of the area before we lost coverage!

Coverage is a free and simple app that allows you to check where you will or will not have cell phone coverage. You can filter the maps by cellular carrier and signal type (LTE, 4G, etc), making it easy to figure out how good your cellular coverage will be in any location.

Trail Wallet

Trail Wallet ROCKS for budgeting your RV trip! This vacation budgeting app was designed by travel bloggers for travelers. It allows you to set a daily budget, or a budget for your entire trip, and it alerts you when you’re overspending.

You can select the categories and currency you want to use for your budget, and it’s free to download!

Best RV Camping Apps

There are two camping apps that will cover all of your RV trip planning needs. These are the only two apps we ever needed while RVing the United States (we certainly tried plenty of other apps, but these two were the BEST).

AllStays is not free, but it is WELL worth the cost. Allstays lists nearly every single official campground and RV park in the USA, both private and public. This app allows you to filter by all kinds of parameters including cost, facilities, campground type (BLM, KOA, etc.), and much more.

AllStays will help you find the best RV parks on your route, and it also lists free overnight parkings spots like Walmart, Cabelas, and casinos.

The app will use your GPS signal to locate all of the nearby campgrounds in seconds, and the provided campground reviews make it easy to choose a place to park for the night!

Unfortunately, this app is only available on Apple IOS at this time ( download it here ), but you CAN use the Allstays website on your Android phone to locate the same information.

iOverlander

iOverlander is the best RV app for finding free campsites. This app is free to download, and crowd sources its information. This means that real RV travelers contribute the GPS coordinates for places they camped, and you can contribute to the app as well!

iOverlander features reviews and photos of campsites, and it also lists services that are useful to RVers such as truck stops, mechanics, and dump stations.

We used iOverlander constantly to find good boondocking sites in both the United States and Mexico.

Best RV Campgrounds

In our experience the best RV campgrounds are not RV parks (in fact, we wrote a whole article about why we avoid RV parks ). Instead, we prefer state and federally run campgrounds which tend to be quiet, affordable, and beautiful!

With that said, sometimes you will have to bite the bullet and stay in an RV park. When this happens be sure to read the reviews beforehand, and don’t forget to ask about discounts! Tom often received a discount at RV parks for being a retired firefighter.

The AllStays app lists BLM, USFS, and state park campgrounds when you search for a campsite, and that’s the easiest way to find publicly owned campgrounds.

Check out this guide for all the information you need to find beautiful, affordable RV campsites!

Best RV Road Trip Routes

The most fun part of planning an RV road trip is choosing where you’ll go! There are so many incredible road trips in the USA it can be tough to choose one!

Here I’ll list our favorite US RV road trips by region. If you have a few months you may be able to do all of these in one trip!

Best RV Route in the Eastern United States- Gettysburg and the Blue Ridge Parkway

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is one of the famous historical sites in the United States. Here you can learn all about the history of the American Civil War, and walk the fields of Gettysburg, where one of the most infamous Civil War battles took place.

There are tons of RV parks around Gettysburg, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a campsite, though the camping in this area is quite expensive.

After Gettysburg make your way south to Shenandoah National Park where you can hop on the gorgeous Blue Ridge Parkway, America’s longest scenic highway!

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles, and I recommend taking 7 days for this road trip so you can really enjoy all the beautiful sights. The best time for this drive is in the fall when the trees will turn bright red and orange all along the parkway.

Best RV Route in the Southwestern United States- Joshua Tree National Park to Lake Tahoe via Highway 395

Highway 395 is my favorite US road trip for RVers! This spectacular drive begins in Joshua Tree National Park, then takes you north to Death Valley National Park, and along the mind blowingly beautiful Eastern Sierras to Lake Tahoe in California.

I can’t think of any other US road trip as jam-packed with beautiful scenery, while also offering plenty of uncrowded, quiet stops.

This route also features tons of gorgeous, affordable campsites, making it a great option if you’re RVing on a budget!

Be sure to stop in the Alabama Hills, just north of Bishop, CA. There you’ll find several BLM campgrounds that cost just $5 per night, and feature the most beautiful mountain views I’ve seen in ANY United States campground. (Just check out the view from our RV window in the picture below!)

I recommend giving yourself two weeks for this RV trip so you can spend a few days in each national park and still have plenty of time to visit the many sites along the highway (Bishop, the Alabama Hills, Mono Lake, and Lake Tahoe are all must-see stops)!

This drive is best done in the late spring because it will be cool enough to enjoy Joshua Tree and Death Valley, but still warm enough to avoid snowfall in the mountains!

Best RV Route in the Western United States- Highway 101 from Olympic National Park, WA to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, CA

Highway 101 runs along the Pacific Ocean from Washington all the way to southern California.

Most RVers only ever drive the southern portion of Highway 101 in California, and that is a huge mistake! Highway 101 is actually at its best along the Oregon coast, where the lack of mansions lining the coast means that you’ll actually get to ride along the ocean for most of the drive.

Also, Washington and Oregon both feature well-managed state park systems with beautiful, clean, and affordable RV campsites all along this route. While I do recommend you head all the way to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in California (the redwoods are AMAZING), prepare to be disappointed by the campgrounds there.

I recommend taking at least two weeks to complete this epic RV trip so you can spend time hiking, swimming, and really enjoying all of the scenery you encounter! This trip is best done in late spring, summer, or early fall, as the rest of the year will be cold and rainy in this area of the country.

Best RV Route in the Northern United States- Yellowstone and Glacier National Park

Yellowstone and Glacier are two of the most beautiful national parks in the United States, and you can visit them both in one epic RV vacation !

Begin this 962 mile journey in Yellowstone National Park, then make your way through Southwest Montana and up to Missoula. From Missoula you’ll make your way to Glacier National Park, and then loop back to Yellowstone.

Expect to encounter epic scenery, incredible wildlife, and plenty of delicious local food and drink options on this trip. There are many campgrounds along the route, but if you want to stay in the national parks reserve in advance- they fill up fast!

I recommend at least three weeks for this trip, and it should be done in the summer when you won’t have to worry about snow and ice.

Essential RV Road Trip Accessories

There are a few items that you must have with you for a successful RV road trip (no, a cute dog is not required, just highly recommended)!

These are especially important if you plan to spend any nights in remote, wilderness camping areas (BLM land, for example). In our experience, wilderness campsites are the most beautiful and peaceful campsites in America, so you’ll want to be able to enjoy them!

RV Leveling Blocks

You NEED leveling blocks for any RV road trip. These are an absolute essential item. Leveling blocks slip under the wheels of your RV to make sure that it’s completely level.

Keeping your RV level is really important because RV refrigerators don’t work like a normal, in-home refrigerator. RV refrigerators use an internal chemical reaction to cool them down, and the chemicals won’t combine properly unless your RV is level.

If you try to run your refrigerator when your RV is not level it will break, and RV refrigerators are one of the most expensive items in the entire RV.  A new RV refrigerator costs at least $1000 so be smart and keep your RV level!

Click here to check prices on leveling blocks!

Suitcase Style Portable Solar Panel

Solar power gives you so much more freedom in your RV adventures!

Why? Well, when you have solar power you don’t need to search out campsites with electrical hookups or run a loud, stinky generator to meet your basic power needs!

A 100 watt folding suitcase-style solar panel is plenty to run your RV’s basic necessities like your lights and your water pump. This panel easily clips on to your coach battery, so there’s no technical know-how required to use this free, clean power source!

Since this solar panel folds up and has a handle, it’s easy to transport. Another huge perk to a portable panel like this is that you can park in the shade, and then set the panel in the sun!

Click here to check prices on a suitcase style 100 watt solar panel!

Quality Camping Chairs

Camping chairs are SO important when you’re traveling by RV! Sure, a lot of campsites will have a picnic table, but that won’t allow you to sit around the fire, or turn your chair in the direction of the sunset, or take a nap outdoors…you get the idea.

Having a comfortable camp chair is an absolute must on an RV vacation. Once you’re parked in camp you don’t want to have to sit inside your RV all day!

There are two camp chairs that we always travel with, and that we highly recommend:

Zero Gravity Camp Chair

This is the most comfortable camp chair we’ve come across, and we always travel with at least one of these (sometimes two, because we end up fighting over the one)!

This chair reclines back far enough to allow you to take a nap, which means it’s also awesome for reading, sunbathing, and any other relaxing activity.

On a warm night you could easily put a pillow and blankets in this chair and sleep under the stars!

Click here to check prices on zero gravity camp chairs!

Director’s Camp Chair

This camp chair provides the best back support of any camp chair we’ve tried, so if you tend to run into back pain this is the chair for you!

This chair is sturdy, and the seat and backrest stay firmly in position, unlike most camp chairs which tend to buckle a bit under weight. This chair also has a side table with a cup holder, which is really convenient for morning coffee, afternoon beers, evening beers…

Click here to check prices on director’s style camp chairs!

Now you’re armed with plenty of information to prepare you for your first big RV trip!

For much more in depth information on camper travel around North America, check out our Ebook, Nomads in Campers , where we share all of our very best tips and tricks, and tons of other useful information to make your RV travels a success!

For information on taking your RV off the grid, check out my complete guide to RV dry camping and boondocking !

We traveled North America full time for two years in a Toyota Dolphin micro-RV! Read about our favorite RV destination, Baja California, Mexico !

We don’t just travel by RV! Last winter we spent 6 months traveling Southeast Asia with only carry on backpacks! Read all about that adventure here .

Every summer we return to the western United States for our favorite festivals, including Burning Man !

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About The Author

7 thoughts on “Ultimate RV Trip Planner: A Guide to Planning your RV Road Trip”

What a treasure trove of the most interesting and useful information. I plan on using all the apps. Wife and I starting soon with our new tiny camper. It will be ready next month. Maybe we will upgrade to a class c in the future. Thanks for people like who inspire all of use to venture out.

Jake and Cynthia

Thank you so much for the tips, just bought a Dolphin, here we go!

Yay!! Dolphins are the best 🙂 Always happy to hear from fellow Toyota Motorhome owners!

Thanks so much for the comment Jake! And congratulations on your new camper! Camper travel really is the best 🙂

Hola! I’ve been following your blog for a while now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Lubbock Texas! Just wanted to mention keep up the fantastic work!

This article was really helpful! We’re planning a 2 month road trip in our class C Winnebago from GA to….somewhere! We haven’t decided where to go yet but this gave me a few ideas. Also THANK YOU for the solar panel link! We don’t have solar and haven’t wanted to install it yet so we may buy this before we hit the road!

Hi Brianna! Glad this was helpful. We LOVE our solar panel, it’s so awesome getting free, clean power! 🙂

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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!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

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.

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Get the complete Organize Your RV Like a Pro Guide for brilliant organization RV hacks before you go!

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!

Drive Across America in an RV: The Best RV Routes, Maps, and Tools

Is there anything that compares to the exhilaration of an RV adventure? To drive across America from coast to beautiful coast? 

Of course, it helps if you have an inkling where you’re going and how you’ll get there. That’s where RV route planning tools, maps, and guides come in handy.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best resources available for exploration of the United States from sea to shining sea.

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The Best RV Route Planning Tools, Maps, and Guides

The best road trips start with a safe route that guides you from point A to point B. Most navigation apps, like Waze and Google Maps, were designed for standard cars, though.

If you’ve been driving an RV for any length of time, you know such routes aren’t always compatible with your vehicle. In some cases, a road perfectly fine for a small automobile poses a serious risk for RV navigation. 

Of course, finding an excellent RV route planning tool can prove easier said than done. Did you know that Apple has more than two million apps available  at the App Store? As you can imagine, cutting through the hype and finding the best RV route planning tool is far from easy. Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you. Here are three apps that’ll get you where you want to go in a safe, enjoyable way. 

Newmar’s RV Resorts Guide

When you’re in the midst of a road trip, you want to play it by ear. You don’t want to feel rushed to get to a RV-friendly campground because you don’t know where else to go.

Worse yet, you don’t want to make the mistake of relying on an app that gives you bad or outdated information. Especially when it comes to whether or not RVs are accepted at a destination. Or which hookups are available.

That’s where Newmar’s incredible 2024 RV Resorts Guide  comes into play.

This year’s guide boasts over 50 resorts across the United States. Plus, you’ll find a collection of getaway locations in Canada—new to the 2024 edition. Created based on suggestions from RV travelers, it’s got all of the tools you need to ensure the perfect accommodations every time.

Here’s what you’ll get inside:

• Highlights, contact info, and must-know information for each location
• Full-color photos and testimonials submitted by honest-to-goodness RVers
• Profiles of more than 50 resorts across the U.S. and Canada, organized by region

It comes in a mobile-friendly format that you can access from anywhere. So, stop stressing about where you’ll stay and start enjoying the romance of the road.

Mix it Up with Roadtrippers App

RV travel is about so much more than getting to a destination quickly. It’s about savoring the journey and finding many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path spots along the way. To get the most out of memory-making, give the app Roadtrippers  a whirl.

So many websites or travel apps lead their users to the same unimaginative tourist traps. But what’s the fun in that? Roadtrippers unlocks millions of the world’s most unexpected and fascinating places to its intrepid travelers. 

Your road trips will never be the same. And isn’t that a good thing?

How does it work? Just download the app on your smartphone. Then, plug in your point of origin and destination. Before you know it, you’ll have eclectic, funky trip ideas, no matter your route of choice.

What’s more, you’ll be able to:

• Set guidelines for the distance you’re willing to travel off route
• Book your stay on the app
• Calculate estimated fuel cost instantly
• Search for unique destinations using general categories and subcategories

If you’re looking to bring more creativity into your itineraries, Roadtrippers’ RV maps and RV routes are the easiest way to spice things up.

Get Practical with RV LIFE TRIP WIZARD

RV Life Trip Wizard offers excellent all-around RV trip planning tools. They put painstaking research into planning and finding the best RV-friendly driving directions. But their practical tools don’t stop there. They also help out with finding the ideal campground in a pinch. 

The Wizard allows you to calculate all your costs along the way, including food, fuel, and recreation. And you can map out your entire route ahead of time. 

But is it easy to use? 

Once you’ve downloaded the app, you can browse all the RV sites at your destination. That includes sites not affiliated with the app. What’s more, the app’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easier than ever to visualize and plan your intended route.

The advantages of the Wizard don’t stop there. It works on all devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. 

The app also:

• Allows you to tailor your preferences such as prioritizing campgrounds where you have a membership
• Download your trip onto your GPS 
• Print a summary of your trip
• Access useful information like complimentary overnight parking or recreational opportunities

What’s more, the app’s intuitive and easy to use. So, you won’t spend countless frustrated hours attempting to figure out how the app works.

Drive Across America

With the resources above, you’ll never have to worry about where to stay, play, or how much you’re spending. Get ready for the ultimate adventure while you drive across America with these fantastic apps. 

No matter where you want to travel or what type of recreational vehicle you have, there are excellent free resources to help you fully embrace the “good life.”

From guides to magazine articles, we’ve got everything you need to make your next vacation an epic adventure. Ready to get started? Check out our complimentary resources , designed to help you live the RV lifestyle to the fullest. 

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10 best us road trips to make in an rv.

Ah, road trips.

The stuff that dreams and epic movie scripts are made of.

Traveling the US in an RV opens up endless possibilities for adventure. So endless, in fact, that you might have trouble making a decision on where the heck to go!

Luckily (and with help from the great folk over at RVshare) I’ve compiled a list of the most historic, famous and best US road trips so that you can just pick one and get out there.

So whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-timer, all you’ve got to do is just read on and decide which is the next perfect trip for you.

Related Posts

• How to Save Money on Gas During a Road Trip
• 10 Lessons Learned from my 8 Month Vegan Road Trip
• 12 Easy Ways We Save Money When Travelling the US

This article was written in conjunction with RVshare and contains affiliate links, meaning Big World Small Pockets may receive a small commission on any purchases at no extra cost to you.

Great RV Road Trips You Can Take in a Weekend

Interested in packing your weekend itinerary full of scenic roads and must-see destinations? Then these short road trips serve up the best of both worlds in a tight time frame.

They’re perfect if you’re renting an RV from a rental network like RVshare , or if you just have to be back at work on Monday.

Get a Great Deal on an RV Rental here !

#1 Hermann Wine Trail

One of the shortest drives on this list of the best US road trips, is the Hermann Wine Trail, which offers plenty of time to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes of Missouri wine country, as you meander along the Missouri River for 20 miles, from Hermann to New Haven.

Though short in distance, the Hermann Wine Trail is chock full of things to do.

There are seven wineries and tons of monthly events along the route – more than enough to keep occupied for a few days!

#2 The Florida Keys

Looking for something a little more tropical?

Then the Florida Overseas Highway is ideal! Spanning the Keys from Key Largo to Key West, this best US road trip is roughly 100 miles in total.

Along this route you can enjoy snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and exploring state parks / museums, as well as the breathtaking views from each of the 42 bridges connecting the islands.

The Overseas Highway is easily one of the most scenic roads in the country, which certainly places it as one of the best US road trips you can take.

See How Much you Could Make by Renting your RV HERE !

#3 the alabama coast.

The Alabama Gulf Coast is home to some of the most historic sites in the US.

Tour the stately mansions and their gardens, or check out the World War II battleships and submarines instead.

The Alabama Coastal Connection also takes you on a cultural journey, through a fascinating and rich landscape in which Creole, French, and Spanish heritage all mix.

Start in Mobile and travel south along Route 98.

Then loop down and around the State’s many scenic byways.

#4 Cherohala Skyway

This entry on my list of the best US road trips takes you through the plains and mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina.

The 40-mile journey begins in Tellico Plains in southeast Tennessee. From here, you can then explore the many overlooks and rivers along the Skyway.

You’ll also wind through the Great Smoky Mountains, where there’s plenty of hiking and historical landmarks to enjoy.

Your trip ends in Robbinsville, North Carolina, home to the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, which is well worth a visit.

Don’t Forget These Items for Your Road Trip

• Kleen Kanteen Water Bottle
• Thermos Mug
• Sony A6000 Mirrorless Camera to capture all those memories
• Aux Cable for the tunes!

#5 Death Valley

Who can list the best US road trips and not mention Death Valley?!

From the world’s largest tree to the hottest and lowest place this side of the globe, Death Valley is certainly a world of extremes.

There’s a lot of ground to explore here, but a short weekend trip can take you from Los Angeles to Las Vegas through Death Valley and back in 14 hours.

Make sure to plan your route and research the climate ahead of time however – temperatures of up to 134 °F have been recorded out here!

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Long RV Road Trips

If you have more time on your hands and want to go on a longer adventure, then this opens you up to exploring some of the other best US road trips out there!

Even if you don’t have an RV, don’t rule a long road trip out.

You can easily rent one long-term from sites like RVshare .

Then all you need do is pack your bag and plan your route along one of these unforgettable journeys.

#1 Route 66

Route 66 is the epitome of the best US road trips.

Running from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California, this famed 2,448-mile journey charts the evolution of modern American culture.

Along the way you’ll explore cities, small towns and expansive landscapes.

Just don’t go too wild on buying souvenirs from the roadside landmarks and attractions.

There’s a lot of them and you might have trouble fitting all of your new purchases in your vehicle!!

#2 The Pacific Coast Highway

Another classic adventure on the must-do list of the best US road trips is the Pacific Coast Highway.

Deciding to undertake this journey gives you the perfect excuse take a little more time off from work, especially if you pair it with Route 66 as well!

Whilst enjoying the ocean breeze from this coastal highway, which runs from Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington, you’ll visit many popular cities and towns, as well as take in some of the most sweeping views the country has to offer.

If you have an equal appreciation for the sea and the forest, then this road trip is definitely one you can’t skip.

#3 Cross-Country Trip: Historic US-80

What better way to see the US than to travel across the entire south?

The remnants of what was once US-80 will now take you from sunny San Diego all the way east to Savannah, GA, during which you’ll travel through landscapes as diverse as deserts, plains and bayous.

Culture and cuisine are equally diverse along this road. Whether you love Tex-Mex, BBQ or crawfish, you’ll find plenty of mouthwatering eateries in every state along the way!

#4 Cross-Country Trip: The Great Northern

If the sweltering heat of the south is too much for you, then you can always opt to cross the country via the Great Northern, along the US-2, instead.

Totaling more than 2,500 miles from Washington to Maine, this is the longest trip on my list of the 10 best US road trips, but its length will allow you to encounter great prairies, mountains and even hardwood forests.

The Great Northern is definitely a road trip for nature lovers, where unforgettable vistas outnumber bustling towns and cities.

You’ll definitely love this route if you want some time to appreciate the natural beauty of northern America.

#5 The Atlantic Coast

While the east coast is rich with American history and picturesque scenery, the Atlantic Coast is one road trip you’re definitely better to plan ahead.

The trick being to avoid I-95 and stick to any detours and scenic byways instead.

If you do, you’ll journey through historic colonial sites and quintessential New England towns.

You’ll also find famed lighthouses, boardwalks and stunning landmarks along this 2,400-mile coastal adventure.

Depending on the direction you’re travelling, your trip will either end in Maine or Florida.

Travel Insurance for the US

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

The United States has so much to offer in the way of culture and natural beauty.

You could easily spend most of your life on the road here and still not experience all there is to do and see.

But it’s worth a shot right?!

Have you made any of these best US road trips before?

Or do you have your own favourite?

I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

13 thoughts on “ 10 BEST US Road Trips to Make in an RV ”

I would add Shenandoah to the list. I’m a HUGE proponent of the great American Roadtrip (actually did a big solo one from Philly to Oklahoma via Niagara Falls that was so fun), I would put driving Shenandoah in Virginia as one of my top 5 places to drive in the US.

Great post!

That’s a really great addition Stephanie that I hadn’t even thought about! You solo trip sounds epic too! Thank you so much for wetting our US road trip whistle even further!

Hi. We are 4 swedes doing our first RV trip in the US. We will be going from Orlando to Las Vegas. Any tips on what to see along the way? Thanks

In March, by the way.

Almost too many Leo! How long do you guys have?

I forgot… both Death Valley and Valley of Fire , Nevada are very interesting places for a road trip. Valley of Fire is even better in my mind, even tough it is smaller.

Thanks for the advice Robin, that’s so great to know you enjoyed them, Valley of Fire especially 🙂

We are thinking going to the Florida Keys in July/August. We know it will be really hot… Would you still recommend this road trip at that time of the year?

I’d definitely take climate into account Marco. It’s hard for me to advise about when people should make trips exactly. I personally love the heat, but others can’t stand it or aren’t used to it, so travelling from them in these conditions can be unbearable. I think it’s about judging what you’re used to and what you think you can deal with! 🙂

While it “feels” hot in Florida it is usually attributed to the humidity. Temperatures rarely get into the 90’s and the abundance of water activities along with air conditioning make it a great time to take your trip.

Thanks for the advice Tim – great info 🙂

Hi, Steph, we are planning to come over from Australia. There is 5 of us myself, my husband and our three children 9yrs, 7yrs and 4yrs. we are wanting to hire a motorhome and spend a month seeing all we can. Do you have any advise on routes/places that are a must. I want as much history, adventure and fun as possible. we will land in LAX and fly out from there as well, sowas thinking about doing a big lap around usa as well as stopping at Lake louise in Canada. Any advise for us would be much appreciated. 🙂

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9 Most Beautiful RV Campgrounds in the U.S., According to Experts

From New York to Key West, these expert-approved RV campgrounds in the U.S. offer stunning views and cushy amenities.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

For years, the stereotypical RV traveler was the baby boomer retiree, but these days, millions of Americans live in RVs — a growth that's been fueled by millennials and young families. It's a nationwide trend that exploded during the course of the pandemic, with Outdoorsy reporting a 4,500% increase in RV rental bookings in their 2020 travel trend report.

With plenty of newbies getting on board (literally) with RV life, there are a few practical things to know, like how to pick the right RV, what to pack, and mistakes to avoid. But, as any longtime RVer knows, half the battle is finding a campground that has the amenities you need, the space you crave, and the views you want. To cut out some of the legwork, we asked experts to share some of the best and most beautiful RV campgrounds they've ever experienced, and then added a few of our favorites — because one of the best things about a home on wheels is waking up to a million-dollar view.

Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor in Petoskey, Michigan

Courtesy of Sun Outdoors

If you're looking for small-town charm and easy access to water, look no further: Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor is a quick 10-minute drive west of delightful Petoskey, and sits on the shore of Lake Michigan. If hopping in the lake isn't your thing, enjoy the RV park's temperature-controlled pool and spa, or play tennis to your heart's content.

Bob Martin, a longtime RVer and president and CEO of Thor Industries , an RV manufacturer, notes, "The park is ideal for those traveling in large RVs and seeking extended stays." The sites can accommodate rigs up to 55 feet long and include Wi-Fi, cable, and a fire pit.

Zion River Resort in Virgin, Utah

Chances are you've seen photos of Zion National Park , an area renowned for its red cliffs, bizarre rock formations, waterfalls, and narrow gorges that seem to cut through the earth. Just minutes from the park's south entrance is Zion River Resort , complete with full RV hookups, grills, free Wi-Fi, and yes, views galore. Once you've fully experienced Zion National Park, use the campground as your home base to explore a little farther — Bryce Canyon National Park is just two hours northeast.

Schoodic Woods Campground in Winter Harbor, Maine

NPS / Sardius Stalker

This National Park Service campground isn't in the main part of Acadia National Park , but trust us, that's a good thing. You'll get all the pros — views and easy access to the park — without the crowds.

Jeremy Puglisi, cohost of The RV Atlas podcast, explains, "An anonymous donor developed this campground, bike paths, and facilities on the Schoodic Peninsula before turning over the property to the National Park Service."

Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio

The only thing better than spending the day at a 364-acre waterfront amusement park is being able to park your RV a few steps away and do it all again tomorrow. Martin says it's the norm for RVers at Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point , who also get early park entry and ticket packages. If amusement parks aren't your thing, head to the RV campground's Lake Erie beachfront or sit back and relax at your site, which has a full hookup, cable, and Wi-Fi.

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Lake placid/whiteface mountain koa in wilmington, new york.

Puglisi and his family, who live in New Jersey, think of the Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA as their "basecamp option #1 for any serious outdoor adventure in New York state's vast and magnificent Adirondack Park." The KOA sits at the base of Whiteface Mountain and is an easy drive from great fly-fishing spots, hikes, cliff jumping, and — when civilization calls — downtown Lake Placid.

But don't think that just because you're camping you won't have access to the finer things in life. At this particular KOA, there's a rec room, bike rentals, pool, mini golf, and special weekends that include music and activities.

Boyd's Key West Campground in Key West, Florida

You don't have to rent a beach house in Key West to get a spot right on the water. At Boyd's Key West Campground , located near the end of Highway 1, you can book a site right on the ocean and soak up the laid-back island vibes. The family-run RV campground has a pool and beach area, full hookup sites, and easy, breezy access to Duval Street and downtown Key West.

Rafter J Bar Ranch in Hill City, South Dakota

If you're craving ample elbow room, sprawling views, and cushy amenities, a visit to Rafter J Bar Ranch will do you good. You can plan your days with trips to Mount Rushmore (20 minutes away by car) and Crazy Horse Memorial (18 minutes away by car), but Puglisi says some of his family's favorite memories took place at the campground, which has a heated pool and hot tub. "We had a large, grassy field right in front of our site, and we played soccer and catch in a park-like setting surrounded by the beauty and stoic grandeur of South Dakota," he added.

Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

You've likely heard of Hilton Head Island, but you don't have to leave your RV behind to experience its renowned golf courses and Atlantic beaches. The RV sites at this campground have Wi-Fi and cable, and the property includes saunas, swimming pools, and a hot tub. When you want to venture out, head to the marina to pick up a jet ski, kayak, or paddleboard and cruise around the shore.

Salt Creek Recreation Area & Campground in Port Angeles, Washington

One of the most visually stunning RV campgrounds in the U.S. can be found in the Salt Creek Recreation Area on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. Puglisi says, "When we post pictures of the campground at the Salt Creek Recreation Area on social media, our followers flip out and demand to know where it's located. It's just that beautiful."

The campground sits on a bluff above the water, and there are tide pools and plenty of hiking, surfing, biking, and kayaking spots to be explored. If you can tear yourself away from this magical place, make a trip to Olympic National Park to get up close with the peninsula's temperate rain forests, wild coastline, and glacier-capped mountains.

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10 Unforgettable RV Road Trips in the U.S. for Families

Level up your next road trip with an rv or mobile home..

Road trips are a classic vacation idea for families , and hitting the road in an RV or mobile home is a great way to take the quintessential road trip experience to the next level. With an RV road trip, you’re literally bringing your hotel room along for the ride, so there’s no worrying about clean accommodations, packing and unpacking at each stop, or even finding a restaurant along the way. RVs also make it easier to bring the family pet or road trip with a baby , too. 

The Best RV Destinations and RV Vacation Ideas for Families

The best RV vacation ideas range from short weekend trips to weeklong (or longer) RV trips, and once you arrive at your destination you can park your RV, unhook your tow vehicle, and drive to local attractions. (If you opt for a drivable motorhome, you may want to tow a vehicle behind as a runaround vehicle.) Wondering where to go on your RV road trip? Here are the best RV destinations in the U.S. for all different kinds of families and interests. 

WHERE TO STAY: 10 Best Campgrounds and RV Parks for Families

1. Best RV Road Trip Route for Families with Little Kids

Orlando to west palm beach – 3 stops, 170 miles.

“Keeping everyone entertained is the key to a successful vacation,” says RV aficionado Amanda Adler of  SabbaticalfromSuburbia.com . And with world-renowned Orlando theme parks like the Harry Potter areas at Universal Studios and the Star Wars land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , not to mention white sand beaches , animal explorations, and family campgrounds overflowing with action-packed amenities, a Florida RV road trip truly offers something for every member of your traveling party. 

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Kick off your road trip route with a stay at one of the best Disney World hotels in Orlando ,  Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground , where your family will have access to a robust lineup of activities, including daily campfire sing-a-longs with Chip ‘n’ Dale, Disney movie nights, and convenient boat service to Magic Kingdom. 

Next, head south to the small town of River Ranch , where you can park your RV at a family glamping resort and dude ranch,  Westgate River Ranch Resort and Rodeo . The property offers everything a young cowpoke could possibly desire: a petting farm, airboat and swamp buggy rides, horseback riding, mini golf, rock climbing, and a thrilling  Saturday night rodeo .

Of course, no RV road trip to the Sunshine State would be complete without a visit to the beach. Head for South Florida, where you’ll have your pick of tropical beaches as you cruise along the Atlantic Ocean. Opt for a stop at the kid-friendly waters of  Carlin Park  in Jupiter or  Loggerhead Park  in Juno Beach , then check out real loggerheads at nearby Loggerhead Marinelife Center , a sea turtle conservation center.

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Make your home base for the last leg of your adventure the  West Palm Beach / Lion Country Safari KOA Journey , which offers the unique experience of camping next to hundreds of animals at the drive-thru  Lion Country Safari . Kids will delight in seeing water buffalo, alpaca, lions, and kudu roaming freely, making it the perfect finale to an unforgettable Florida family vacation in your RV.

2. Best RV Road Trip Route for Families with Big Kids and Tweens

Knoxville to asheville via pigeon forge – 3 stops, 270-mile loop.

This Appalachian RV vacation winds through the hollows of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, taking in Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain home and the quirky arts community of Asheville Start in Knoxville and head east to Pigeon Forge , where you will find the  Dollywood theme park . Thrill seekers in the family will love Dollywood’s roller coasters such as Lightning Rod , Thunderhead , and Wild Eagle , and adults will love watching craftsmen create hand-blown glass, candles, and artwork. Camp at  Pigeon Forge’s Jellystone Park  just two miles from Dollywood. 

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Monica Baer of  American Coach  recommends venturing deeper into the Smokies across the North Carolina state line to Asheville . The mountains surrounding Asheville are home to incredible hiking trails, many of which reward hikers with waterfall views . Those who’d like a scenic RV road trip through the mountains can hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop at any of the designated outlooks for sweeping vistas and gorgeous photo opportunities. For beer lovers, Asheville is a true treasure. With 100 local beers on tap, it’s known as one of the best beer towns in the country. RVers can spend the night at  Bear Creek  RV park and campground.

After exploring Asheville, head back to Tennessee for a stay at the  Lazy Llama Campground  in Chuckey . Owners Jerry and Carolyn Ayers allow campers to interact with the animals, whether it’s hiking with them on “Storytelling Llama Treks” or learning how to spin yarn and weave wool sourced from the llama.

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Chuckey is only 15 miles from historic Jonesborough , Tennessee’s oldest town, which promotes itself as “The Storytelling Capital of the World.” Every October the town hosts the  National Storytelling Festival  as well as other special events throughout the year. After swapping stories, head 80 miles west to complete the RV road trip loop at your starting point in Knoxville.

3. Best RV Destinations for Families with Teenagers

Central and southwest colorado – 4 stops, 750-mile loop.

Jeff Crider of  GoRVing.com  suggests taking teens two and a half hours southwest of Denver to  Royal Gorge Bridge and Park , which features America’s highest suspension bridge and zipline. The suspension bridge is 956 feet above the Arkansas River; zipline riders soar even higher at 1,200 feet above the water.   “If you get a little woozy reading this, you could also ride a gondola across the canyon,” Crider notes. 

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At the base of the canyon are more opportunities for family travel adventures , including whitewater rafting tours with  Echo Canyon River Expeditions  and historic train rides through the canyon on the  Royal Gorge Route Railroad . Set up basecamp at the  Royal Gorge/Cañon City KOA Holiday . 

After spending a couple of days in the Royal Gorge area, head further south to  Great Sand Dunes National Park  before venturing west on your RV vacation through the San Juan Mountains to Durango , where activities include  kayaking or rafting on the Animas River  and taking the  historic Durango Silverton train  to the 9,300-foot mining town of Silverton . Crider recommends the  United Campground in Durango  located on the banks of the Animas River. 

Durango is also a jumping off point to see ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings at  Mesa Verde National Park  and  Canyons of the Ancients National Monument , which contains the highest concentration of Native American archaeological sites in the U.S., including cliff dwellings, kivas, petroglyphs, and sacred springs.

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Head north from Durango on U.S. 550 (also known as the Million Dollar Highway ), one of the most scenic high-elevation RV road trip routes in the country. You’ll drive through forests filled with aspen and pine trees, visit Silverton, and go through the little town of Ouray —which has several of the best Colorado hot springs —before arriving at Montrose , which is a jumping off point for visits to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park . Stay at the  Ouray Riverside Resort , an 8,000-foot elevation campground with an onsite cafe, steakhouse, and Jeep rentals. 

4. Best RV Trips for Adults and Grown-Up Kids

Northern michigan lower peninsula – 4 stops, 150 miles .

Paige Bouma of  RV Trader  recommends an RV vacation in Michigan for adults and grown-up kids. “Michigan has so many state parks you can go to,” says Bouma, “and it offers a Recreation Passport you can use to see them all.”

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The northern portion of Michigan’s lower peninsula is not only heavily forested, but also features beautiful white sand beaches and sand dunes at  Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , a favorite Midwest road trip destination for families. The  Platte River Campground  offers RV sites and is close to the Riverside Canoe company , which offers canoe, kayak, tubing, and raft trips down the Platte. The resort town of Traverse City is nearby and known for its wineries and golf courses. 

From Sleeping Bear Dunes, one of the best RV destinations is two hours north along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Petoskey . Keep your eyes peeled for the state stone of Michigan, the Petoskey Stone, which are rounded pieces of fossilized coral that date back millions of years to when the area was covered by shallow seas.  Petoskey State Park  offers a long sandy beach on Lake Michigan, RV hookups, and plenty of hiking trails.

After your search for Petoskey Stones, step back in time at one of the most beloved Midwest family vacation destinations , charming  Mackinac Island . No vehicles are allowed on the island, so you’ll have to park your rig and take a ferry to visit. On the island you can enjoy horse and buggy rides, visit historical forts and museums, and even splurge with an overnight stay at  the Grand Hotel , incidentally one of the most kid-friendly family resorts in the country.

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Following your island adventure, set up basecamp at  Cheboygan State Park  on the sandy beaches of Lake Huron. Cheboygan offers RV sites as well as a teepee rental. 

5. Best RV Road Trip Route for Multigenerational Groups 

Boston to washington, d.c. – 4 stops, 460 miles.

Rae and Jason Miller, creators of  Getaway Couple , recommend Boston to Washington, D.C. , RV trips to please multiple generations. This four-stop multigenerational family vacation route is loaded with historical sites, interactive museums, and campgrounds perfect for large families to bond around the campfire. It doesn’t matter if the ages in your group range from toddler to grandparent; everyone will be pleasantly surprised by the activities on this RV vacation. 

NATION’S CAPITAL: The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C., with Kids

Start your East Coast family vacation at  Wompatuck State Park  in Hingham, Massachusetts . Take a day trip to the city of Boston to visit the Boston National Historical Park , Paul Revere House , Boston Massacre Site , and Fort Independence . For lunch, be sure to grab some famous Boston staples like clam chowder or a lobster roll. 

Next, drive 215 miles south for a New York family vacation through the Big Apple. Stay at  Battle Row Campground  on Long Island (or  Croton Point Park Campground  on the Hudson River north of the city if you’d prefer to keep your RV out of New York City ). While you’re here, be sure to visit the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site , the Van Cortlandt House Museum , and the Graffiti Hall of Fame . This mix of history will entertain every generation. 

Your next stop is less than 100 miles south in Philadelphia . Camp at the  Philadelphia South KOA  and take your family downtown to explore the city. Every generation will enjoy visiting the Liberty Bell , the Underground Railroad Museum , and recreating your own “Rocky” moment on the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art .

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Continue another 140 miles south to Washington, D.C., one of the best family vacation spots in the U.S. and a perfect place to cap off your RV vacation.  Cherry Hill Park  is the closest campground to downtown D.C. and is well maintained. There are countless things to see and do in the nation’s capital , including snapping a family picture in front of the White House, visiting the Lincoln Memorial , and taking in a few Smithsonian museums , all of which are free to the public. 

6. Best RV Road Trip Route for Foodies

New orleans to key west – 4 stops, 1,800 miles.

For foodies, Maddi Bourgerie of  RVShare  says one of the best RV vacation ideas is an old-fashioned Southern comfort food tour that starts in New Orleans . Park your RV at  New Orleans RV Resort and Marina  (formerly Pontchartrain Landing) for a resort that’s right on the water and offers a free shuttle into the French Quarter. Once in the Big Easy, you ca experience authentic jambalaya at Jacques Imo’s Cafe and treat the whole family to classic sugar-dusted beignets at Cafe du Monde . (Pro-tip: Dip your beignet in a cup of chicory coffee or hot chocolate for the kids). 

CAMPING WITH KIDS: How to Plan Your First Family Camping Trip

Next up is Memphis for slow-smoked barbecue at Central BBQ . The Elvis Presley Boulevard RV Park  is two blocks from Graceland and only a couple of minutes’ drive from all of Memphis’ major attractions.

Then it’s on to Charleston for famous fried chicken at Martha Lou’s Kitchen . The milk-battered fried chicken paired with lima beans and okra stew is a fan-favorite stop on this Southern food RV trip.  Lake Aire Campground  has full-service RV sites and family-friendly activities such as fishing from a private lake.

The fourth stop on your RV vacation is Savannah , a must-see city for foodies . Located in Savannah’s historic district, The Olde Pink House Restaurant answers all your Southern food cravings with pan-seared jumbo lump crab cakes, fried green tomatoes, and mac and cheese jalapeno poppers. The  Savannah South KOA  is in Richmond Hill , a small town on the southwestern edge of the city.

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Complete your culinary journey in Key West for fresh mahi-mahi at Ocean Grill and Bar and delicious key lime pie at Kermit’s Key West Lime Shoppe . Stay at  Boyd’s Key West Campground right on the water near Mile Marker 5. If you’re an American literature buff, don’t miss Key West’s Hemingway Home & Museum .

7. Best RV Road Trip Route for History Buffs

Alabama civil rights tour – 3 stops, 140 miles.

The cities of Birmingham , Montgomery , and Selma were all major epicenters of the Civil Rights Movement. Each city has numerous historical sites, museums, and other attractions that should be part of every American family’s education .

CIVIL RIGHTS LEGACY: Why Your Family Should Visit The Legacy Museum (and Where Else to Go)

Start in Birmingham and head to the  Birmingham Civil Rights Institute  for an overview of the Civil Rights Movement, where families can experience a rendition of a 1950s segregated city, a Freedom Riders bus, and the jail cell door from behind which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. penned his famous “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” Other important Birmingham sites include the Bethel Baptist Church , 16th Street Baptist Church , and Miles College . Support a Black-owned business at the Time Away RV Resort,  often used as a base camp for Civil Rights tours.

From Birmingham, head to Montgomery, the former home of Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., and other Civil Rights icons. Much of their history can be explored at the  Rosa Parks Library and Museum  as well as the  Dexter Parsonage Museum , former home of Dr. King. The  National Memorial for Peace and Justice  is the first national memorial to honor more than 4,400 African Americans killed by racial terrorist groups between 1877 and 1950. This solemn space is meant to allow people to gather and reflect on our nation’s long history of racial inequality. The  Montgomery KOA Campground  offers RV sites close to the historical locations.

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This educational RV road trip ends in Selma, best known for the Selma to Montgomery marches, beginning with “Bloody Sunday” on the Edmund Pettus Bridge on March 7, 1965. These marches were crucial to the eventual passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The act prohibited racial discrimination in voting, protecting the right to vote for racial minorities in the U.S. and especially in the American South.  Montgomery South RV Park  in Hope Hull, Alabama , has both RV sites and rental cabins.

8. Best RV Vacations for Mountain Scenery

Going-to-the-sun road in glacier national park, montana – 2 stops, 110 miles.

Completed in 1933,  Going-to-the-Sun Road  in Montana’s Glacier National Park offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America. Magnificent lakes line both ends of the road, including Lake McDonald on the west and the Saint Mary Lake on the east. “Right after the road opens in May or June, the drive is particularly scenic as melting snow creates numerous little waterfalls that splash onto the roadway,” notes GoRVing’s Jeff Crider.

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Glacier National Park also has many trails leading to glacier-fed lakes and waterfalls. The highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road is 6,646-foot Logan Pass . The road over the pass typically opens in late spring or early summer and closes with the first major snow in October or November. The  East Glacier KOA  in St. Mary offers RV and tent sites and is located one mile from the Glacier National Park entrance and the start of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. While Going-to-the-Sun Road can be driven in a single day, it’s best to allow at least two or three days to enjoy the scenery on your RV road trip. 

For an extended RV trip with additional lakes and glacier-covered mountain scenery, consider visiting Waterton Lakes National Park , which abuts Glacier National Park on the Canadian side of the border. Townsite Campground  is located on the water within the park and has drive-through RV sites with full hookups.

9. Best RV Destinations for Outdoorsy Families

National parks of the desert southwest – 6 stops, 800 miles .

This RV road trip includes stops at some of the most iconic sites of the American West, including the  South Rim of the Grand Canyon ,  Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park ,  Mesa Verde National Park ,  Arches National Park ,  Canyonlands National Park ,  Bryce Canyon National Park , and  Zion National Park . Activities include hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Evening astromony talks are typically also offered at many of the parks during the summer months as well. 

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First up on this RV vacation is the Grand Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of those iconic U.S. tourist attractions every kid should visit before they grow up . The South Rim is open year-round and offers the most famous panoramic views.  Trailer Village RV Park  is the only RV campground with full hookups located within the national park.

From the Grand Canyon, head northeast to Monument Valley on the Arizona/Utah border. This sacred land is part of the Navajo Nation and known for its red sandstone buttes.  The View Hotel and Campground  has RV sites and premium furnished cabins with excellent views of the famous rock formations.

Next on your RV road trip route are the Pueblo cliff dwellings found in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park, which preserves indigenous archeological sites dating back at least 700 years.  Morefield Campground  offers RV sites within the park, some with full hookups, and kids will love the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts. 

Head back into Utah and set up camp in Moab as a home base for both Arches and Canyonlands national parks, where your family can enjoy outdoor adventures like rock climbing, canyoneering, rafting, mountain biking, and more.  Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway (formerly Moab Valley RV Resort) features both RV sites and rental accommodations.

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Explorations of southern Utah continue at Bryce Canyon National Park, known for the alien-shaped hoodoos in its red rock amphitheater.  Sunset Campground  is a national park campground located inside the park within hiking distance of both Sunset Point and Inspiration Point . This is a fantastic location for sleeping in the park and taking advantage of the nighttime star talks and constellation tours .

The final stop is Utah’s Zion National Park. This park features a spectacular canyon with hiking along (and in) the Virgin River.  Zion River Resort  has riverside RV sites and offers a number of family-friendly activities as well as educational and archeology programs. 

10. Best RV Vacation Ideas for Sports Fans

Division i college football road trip.

There’s something special about the U.S. college football environment. Each weekend in the fall, thousands flock to their respective sport palaces, set up camp for the weekend, cook out or tailgate, play games, and cheer on their favorite team. It’s this atmosphere that makes college football’s stadiums among the best RV destinations for sports fans. 

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Traditionally college football games take place each Saturday, and at the largest stadiums RVs start arriving Friday night and stay until Sunday—giving you plenty of time to get to next week’s destination. The other benefit of traveling to college football games is it’s one of the most creative vacation ideas for teenagers because it allows you to sneak in a college tour on your RV trip. 

Instead of a single road trip route, here are four RV destinations known for their college football atmosphere.

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor is a great college town to visit filled with restaurants, parks, and culture. More than 100,000 fans pack Michigan Stadium on football Saturdays. Ann Arbor Pioneer High School offers RV parking  and is located across the street from the stadium. Spots include a small area for tailgating (enough for 10 to 20 people). 

Clemson University – Clemson, South Carolina

College football is almost a religion in the Southeastern U.S., and the cozy college town of Clemson in the corner of South Carolina is home to three national championships. The  Clemson RV Park at The Grove  is a campground with full hookups just four miles from campus and features tailgate bands every Friday night, catered meals included with your spot, and shuttles to and from games. Clemson is also close to Lake Hartwell and plenty of outdoor activities. 

University of Nebraska – Lincoln, Nebraska

Memorial Stadium is conveniently located near downtown Lincoln , making it easy for families to explore the area before and after the game. On game day there are a number of kid-friendly events including the Unity Walk , where players and coaches walk through the sea of fans, and the Nebraska Marching Band rehearsal one hour before the game. RVs can camp overnight in a designated lot  beginning Friday evenings until Sunday morning. 

University of Oregon – Eugene, Oregon

The Oregon Ducks play in Autzen Stadium along the Willamette River. Camping in the university’s RV lot is organized by the Boy Scouts and offers spectacular mountain and water scenery. Scouts are on hand starting Friday evening to help you park, and RVs can stay until Sunday morning. A portion of the parking revenue goes to the scouts to support camps, camping equipment purchases, and leader training.

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Usa rv road trip travel blog.

The Ultimate Western USA Road Trip Guide

Our 10-week rv route through montana, wyoming, and the pacific northwest – including detailed itinerary and expense breakdown.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Quick stats, cost breakdown.

The American west was made for road trips. We spent the better part of 10 weeks exploring this wonderland of big skies, open roads and small towns. Our early summer trek, first through the mountains and later along the coast, kept us in temperatures that peaked in the 70s. Such a difference from the summers of our recent past spent in the humidity of Washington, D.C. or the 100 degree+ temperatures of the Sacramento valley.

The route included some of our favorite places along with some new discoveries. While Montana will always have my heart, I have a new found appreciation for Idaho’s unsung beauty. And I think everyone should drive down the Oregon coast at least once.

Living in D.C. for so long, one of the small talk questions I got the most when people learned I was from California would be: “which coast is your favorite?” My default answer was always that I like the west, and I like the east, for different reasons. But if I am honest with myself, there is something that just feels right when I am in the western states. Maybe it’s the fresh air, maybe it’s all that space, maybe it’s the wild west and gold rush history that didn’t happen all that long ago. If you haven’t had a chance to get out there and see it for yourself, what are you waiting for?

Read on for a detailed account of our 10-week trip, including destinations, campground reviews, and costs to help you plan a road trip through the American west.

Looking for more travel ideas? Read my detailed coast-to-coast itinerary here or check out my other USA destination guides here .

• Days On the Road: 69.
• Miles Traveled in RV (not counting the additional miles put on the car when exploring): 3,427.
• States Driven Through: 6.
• National Parks Visited: Crater Lake National Park, Craters of the Moon National Monument, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, Redwood National and State Parks.
• Number of Campgrounds Parked At: 21 (9 county/state/national parks, 9 private, 3 free camping spots).
• Visitors: 9, for a total of 20 nights. Life at The Chateau became like adult summer camp!
• Repairs: Oil changes for both vehicles, sealant for a leaky roof seam. The Chateau got its first road scars after we backed it into a campsite all wrong and scratched the back bumper. Nothing serious, thankfully.
• Grand Total Travel Costs for 10 Weeks On the Road: (read later in post for more details): $6,6775

Campground Price Guide:

$ = Free $$ = $10-$30/night $$$ = $30 – $50/night $$$$ = Over $50/night

Departure: We kicked off the summer road trip by rolling out of Sacramento at the end of May 2019.

Klamath Falls Four Mile Flat Quarry – GPS: 42.431503, -122.160638 $ Review: We started the trip with some free camping. It was hard to find info about this spot online but it exceeded my expectations. Kind of middle of the nowhere. A rocky parking lot by the water with more camping spots tucked along a rough road. I would stay here again for a night but wouldn’t make this a destination in itself. Local attractions: Crater Lake National Park (about an hour away). Miles from previous location: 360 miles.

Sweet Roystone Hot Springs – 7882 N. Hwy 52 Sweet, ID 83670 $$ Review: A very nice family-owned campground with renovated bathrooms and wifi. My favorite part was the hot springs that you can access for a minimal fee. Local attractions: Boise. Miles from previous location: 400 miles.

Bellevue Riverside RV Park and Campground – 403 Broadford Road, Bellevue, Idaho $$ Review: An older, small private campground with lots of long-term guests. Good wifi and close proximity to Sun Valley. Local attractions: The charming towns of Hailey and Ketchum (the nation’s first ski resort and the final resting place of Ernest Hemingway), Craters of the Moon National Monument. Click here to read about our visit. Miles from previous location: 195 miles.

Jackson Area

Spread Creek – Forest Road 30290 $ Review: This is our favorite boon docking spot to date! No amenities, unbeatable views and an unmatched location for exploring the northern part of Grand Teton National Park. We stayed in spot #3 and it was great for our rig. The road to spots #5-10 gets really rough so might not be a good fit for larger RVs. Read more about our visit here. Local attractions: Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. Miles from previous location: 267 miles.

Kelly Gros Ventre Campground – 100 Gros Ventre Campground Rd, Kelly, WY 83011 $$$$ Review: After four nights of boondocking, we decided to try out our first National Park campground. We snagged a spot without a reservation. This is a nice woodsy spot with electric hookups but no showers. We found showers at the Colter Bay Campground and at a gym in town. There’s a great spot to see moose near the campground. Local attractions: Jackson, Grand Teton National Park. Miles from previous location: 44 miles.

West Yellowstone Baker’s Hole Campground – 3 mi NW of West Yellowstone on US 191 $$ Review: We were torn about where to stay during our visit to Yellowstone National Park. Our priorities were 1) staying as close to the park entrance as possible; 2) avoiding “parking lot” campgrounds and 3) paying a reasonable fee. This campground fit the bill! We found a first come first serve electric hookup site. No showers available. No cell service, either. Local attractions: West Yellowstone, Yellowstone National Park. Read my guide to help you avoid the crowds in Yellowstone here . Miles from previous location: 124 miles.

Cody Buffalo Bill State Park, North Fork Campground – near Cody, Wyoming off US 14 W/ US 16 W / US 20 W $$$ Review: One of the best state park campgrounds I have ever seen. Located about 15 minutes from downtown Cody. We were able to find a walk-up site with electricity but were told that it is hard to get in without a reservation later in summer. Nice views of the surrounding rocky cliffs (some of the formations reminded us of southern Utah). Coin operated showers. Local attractions: Cody is the quintessential wild west town. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 132 miles.

Livingston Osen’s RV Park – 20 Merrill Lane, Livingston, MT 59047 $$$ Review: We picked this campground for its proximity to downtown Livingston, which also made it a good launching point for exploring both Yellowstone and Bozeman, Montana. It is clean and well-maintained but the spots are pretty close together. Management closes the entrance gates at 9 pm each night but you can open and close them manually as needed. Local attractions : Ben and I love Livingston; it’s just about the perfect small town. It was the original gateway city to Yellowstone. Be sure to check out the Murray Bar and Neptune’s. Bozeman is about 30 minutes away. It’s a larger college town with a very walkable main street. Miles from previous location: 178 miles.

Helena Cromwell Dixon Campground – 15 miles west of Helena at MacDonald Pass off Highway 12. $$ Review: Quiet, rustic camping on the top of a mountain just outside of downtown Helena. Local attractions: The state capitol building is gorgeous. Visit quirky Lewis and Clark Brewery and Broadwater hot springs. Miles from previous location: 123 miles.

Great Falls Dick’s RV Park – 1403 11th St SW, Great Falls, MT 59404 $$$ Review: This is an urban campground with older facilities and lots of long term guests. That being said, it is the most convenient place to stay while exploring Great Falls. Local attractions: Great Falls feels like a city on the rise. Read my guide to the Electric City here. Don’t forget to visit the mermaids. Miles from previous location: 121 miles.

Kalispell Rocky Mountain Hi Campground – 825 Helena Flats Road, Kalispell 59901 $$$ Review: Glacier country is a whole other (unbelievably gorgeous) world. This campground is spacious and has a full laundromat on site. It gets busy with families and kids on the weekends. Local attractions: Glacier National Park, Whitefish, Kalispell. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 227 miles.

*** If you want, add a stop in Wallace, Idaho on your way to Washington. It’s a much-celebrated small town with a big personality that I look forward to visiting in the future.

Spokane Area Peaceful Pines – 1231 W 1st St, Cheney, WA 99004 Review: We stayed about 20 minutes outside of downtown Spokane in the sleepy college town of Cheney. This private campground is small with recently updated bathrooms and showers. We had some issues with the wifi connection. Local attractions : Spokane is an under-the-radar city with a charming waterfront and beautiful architecture. Read my guide to the city here. Take a day trip to the nearby resort town of Coeur D’Alene. Miles from previous location: 250 miles.

Yakima Area Horn Rapids Park – 78410 Overlook Dr, Benton City, WA 99320 $$ Review: Inexpensive and spacious with electric hookups. Kind of in the middle of nowhere, yet convenient for exploring Yakima wine country. Local attractions: Highly recommend stopping by some wineries (like WIT and Col Solare) or breweries (Bale Breaker) and a trip into Yakima proper for some of the award-winning tamales from Los Hernandez. Miles from previous location: 154 miles.

The Dalles Area Rufus Landing $ Review: Free boon docking on the river. I was surprised by how busy this gravel parking lot gets! We stayed here two nights. Local attractions : The Dalles is a quaint small town; there’s hiking in a state park nearby; Hood River is a good stop for breweries and outdoorsy fun. Miles from previous location: 120 miles.

Tillamook Air Museum Grounds – 5005 Highway 101 South, Tillamook, OR 97141 $$ Review: A no frills and inexpensive camping spot next to the tiny Tillamook airport and air museum. Super close to town. Local attractions: Tillamook was our first stop on the Oregon coast. Be sure to visit the famous Tillamook Creamery – it lives up to the hype. From this home base we also explored Cannon Beach and Pacific City. Click here to read my complete guide to the Oregon Coast. Miles from previous location: 157 miles.

Yachats Cape Perpetua Campground – 2200 US-101, Yachats, OR 97498 $$ Review: This is it. The perfect campground in the perfect coastal town. (As long as you don’t need cell service.) I fell hard for Yachats. Local attractions: Redwoods, fresh sea food, and tide pools galore. Click here to read my full guide to Yachats. Miles from previous location: 93 miles.

Coos Bay Bastendorff County Park – 63379 Bastendorff Beach Rd. Coos Bay, OR, 97423 $$$ Review: We were excited to get a last minute spot at this campground but it came with serious pros and cons. It’s a great location for checking out Charleston, North Bend, Coos Bay, and the surrounding area. It’s also very busy and crowded and the bathrooms leave much to be desired. Local attractions: Be sure to check out the nearby adorable beach towns of Florence and Bandon. Click here to read my complete guide to the Oregon Coast. Miles from previous location: 74 miles.

Brookings Sea Bird RV Park – 16429 Highway 101 South Brookings, OR 97415 $$$ Review: Truth be told, we planned to state at Harris Beach State Park but turns out everything was full because there was a kite festival that weekend (true story). Sea Bird is a small private campground with a mix of travelers and long term residents. Local attractions: There’s no shortage of stunning views along Oregon’s southern coast. Be sure to stop by Crazy Norwegian’s Fish and Chips in Port Orford. Miles from previous location: 107 miles.

Trinidad Emerald Forest Cabins & RV – 753 Patricks Point Drive, Trinidad, CA, 95570 $$$ Review: What a wonderful campground, with camping spots tucked in among tall evergreens! Great for families. Just outside of the quiet fishing town of Trinidad. Local attractions: It’s a short drive to Redwood National and State Parks or Eureka. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 86 miles.

Fortuna Area Van Duzen Campground – Swimmers Delight – 12 miles east of Highway 101 on Highway 36 $$ Review: This was a last minute find for us. While we only stayed for one night, this would be a fun spot to spend a long weekend. The spots are large and quite literally surrounded by giant redwoods. Local attractions: Soak up the nature, and visit the charming Victorian village (and dairyland) of Ferndale. Miles from previous location: 40 miles.

Fort Bragg MacKerricher State Park – West Pinewood Campground – three miles north of Fort Bragg on Highway 1, near the town of Cleone $$$ Review: IMHO this is the best place to stay in Fort Bragg, by far. Huge campsites within walking distance to the beach and only a short drive to downtown. However, in our experience, California state parks are more expensive to dry camp in than other states, and the amenities are limited. Local attractions: Fort Bragg is a charming coastal town with shops, restaurants and North Coast Brewing Co.. Enjoy fresh seafood, beach hikes, and wildlife watching. Read more about our visit here. Miles from previous location: 117 miles.

Arrival: We returned to Sacramento at the end of July 2019, just in time to see friends and family and then fly back to Washington, D.C. for a work trip.

Just like “normal” life, you can pretty much spend as little or as much as you want while living the full-time RV lifestyle. I was very curious to compare our costs during this leg of the trip with our expenses from April 2019, our mad dash across the country. (You can read about that itinerary and why we had to travel across the whole USA in one month here .)

And you guys, guess what? I think we are figuring out this whole full-time RV thing! In June and July, we stayed at several pricey campgrounds out of necessity while visiting popular destinations like the Tetons or the California coast. But we also found some great deals at state park campgrounds and boondocked whenever we could. We found our travel speed sweet spot, moving every five days or so and limiting drive days to around three hours (most of the time). That schedule helped us balance time for work with time for fun. We are loving how RV travel allows you to experience an area the way the locals do.

I added a new “health” category to our expense tracker this month. We had our first dog health scare this month when Hobbes had a flare up of a past back injury. I shared more about how we keep Hobbes healthy on the road in this blog post for the Pet Food Institute. My top recommendation for RVers (or anyone traveling with their dog) is to keep a file of past health diagnoses and vaccination records with you. It was so helpful to be able to share this information with the new-to-us vet so they had some context for his symptoms.

Western Road Trip RV Travel Expenses At a Glance:

10 Weeks/69 Days on the Road

Gas: $1,497 This included fuel for both The Chateau and our car. Let’s just say the difference in gas prices between Montana and the California coast was “significant”. Ouch.

Campground Fees: $1,922 This breaks down to $28/day. Not bad. We stayed at a mix of free campsites, state and national parks, and private campgrounds. This total also includes parking fees in the few cities we visited with parking meters. In comparison, we spent $1,300 for just 30 days in April.

Eating and Drinking Out: $1,585 Mostly includes meals in the $15-30 range (and lots of coffee). We admittedly spend a lot in this area since trying new restaurants is one of the best ways to get to know a new city, IMHO.

Entertainment: $282 A minor league baseball game, bowling, the Cody Nite rodeo, and visiting a dinosaur dig.

Groceries: $1,288 This number also includes random household supplies purchased along with groceries at Walmart.

Health and Wellness: $165 Mostly day passes for gyms (and showers)!

RV and Car Maintenance: $213 Oil changes, etc. Also includes some organizational supplies and a new ottoman!

Connectivity: $451 My phone plan, a wireless jetpack for wifi, and our mail forwarding service.

Grand Total: $6,775

This breaks down to $98/day or $1.98 per mile.

Our primary goal in embracing the full-time RV lifestyle is to see and experience as many new places as possible (rather than saving money) – and clearly that shows. Adjusting your speed of travel or avoiding eating and drinking out are the easiest ways to save money on the road.

I hope this information is helpful if you are planning to jump into fulltime RV living or just an extended road trip across the American west. Feel free to send me a comment or an email if you have any questions about the itinerary.

I am currently planning the next leg of our journey : fall in the USA’s upper Midwest… your recommendations would be much appreciated! Be sure to click here to read my latest dispatches from the road and follow me on Instagram for more updates!

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RV Classes: A Complete Guide for RV Beginners 2024

• The 2-in-1 12V 200Ah LiFePO4 battery with self-heating & BT
• Double active safety design for comprehensive safety
• Flame-retardant casing stops vertical burning from spreading in 10s

Do you know there are various RV classes or forms of motorhomes? There are smaller, medium-sized, basic tow trailers, and full-size trailers. RVs allow you to explore the various parts of the country while enjoying simple life luxuries such as bed, living space, bathroom, and kitchen. What is the right RV for your adventures? Let us guide you in understanding various types of RVs, and their advantages and drawbacks. Let’s dive in!

RV Classes Explained

There are different classes of RVs. The classes vary depending on the size, shape, and weight. The six commonly known RV classes are:

Class A Motorhomes- Class A RVs are fully equipped, luxurious, and spacious. They are ideal for individuals, families, or groups for long-term adventures or travels.

Class B RV- The B Class motorhomes are compact-sized, easy to drive, and fuel efficient. Due to their smaller size, they are ideal for couples and individual adventurers. They can accommodate essential features and amenities.

Class C RV- They are mid-sized motorhomes, suitable for families, and friend groups. It has enough sleeping spaces and comfortable living spaces. Class C’s are four-wheel drive and are easy to drive.

Fifth Wheels- Fifth wheel RVs are stable, spacious, and offer a luxurious experience to the users. However, it needs a truck for towing it.

Travel Trailers- The travel trailers are suitable for travelers who already own a capable vehicle that can tow. The towable travel trailers have various layouts and sizes.

Truck Campers- They are suitable for travelers who need a compact yet versatile camper with off-road capabilities. It is usually mounted on a pick-up truck.

Understanding Motorhome RV Classes for Beginners

Motorhomes are self-powered RVs that have their own engine and driving chassis.There are three classes of motorhomes, which are Class A, B, and C which are classified according to the chassis they are built on. Let’s explore various motorhome Classes plus the pros and cons of each class.

1. Class A RV

Class A motorhomes are the largest category of drivable RVs. They look like a bus with sizes ranging from 24 to 45 feet and weigh up to 30,000 pounds. They have a single chassis, usually with more than two axles. However, heavier class A motorhomes can have up to three axles.

The Class A RVs have a wide range of possibilities for the interiors. It is capable of accommodating luxuries similar to that of an average house.

Some of the items in Class A motorhomes include a king-sized bed, washer, dryer, two baths, a large living area with sofas, recliners, a dining table, fireplace, and television. Also, the kitchen is fully equipped with features such as oven, freezer, fridge, stovetop, microwave, and dishwasher.

The Class A RVs feature a large cargo capacity located above the chassis and underneath the camper space. The storage space can hold things like bicycles, sports equipment, lawn chairs, and so much more.

• Accommodates a wide range of basic and luxurious living amenities.
• It is very spacious and luxurious.
• It features a large storage space.
• It does not need a towing vehicle. However, it can tow another vehicle.
• The costs of purchasing a Class A motorhome are high.
• The costs of insuring, maintaining, and repairing Class A RVs are high.
• It is not fuel-efficient
• The driver may require special training and a special driving license.
• It may require specialized and designated parking for motorhomes, which may cause the user to incur additional high costs.

2. Bus Conversion (Skoolie Bus)

Just like the Class A motorhomes, bus conversion is simply built on a school bus body. Most of the bus conversions are DIY projects. However, there are professional companies that specialize in customizing the bus conversions. Bus conversions are approximately 20 to 45 feet and weigh around 15,000 to 35,000 lbs. It features basic amenities such as beds, kitchen, bathrooms, and living space.

• The initial investment cost of bus conversion is low compared to other types of RVs.
• School buses are made with high-quality materials thus they are highly durable.
• Skoolies or bus conversions are unique and you can be creative customizing it.
• The renovation and customization costs are relatively high.
• Due to their length, they are not easy to park, especially for new bus drivers.
• Most bus conversions, especially school buses, are not fuel-efficient.

3. Class B RV

The Class B RVs are among the smallest classes of motorhomes. They are usually known as campervans. They weigh approximately 6,000 to 8,000 pounds with a length of an average van. Due to their smaller size, they are capable of navigating remote terrains where other types of vans cannot reach.

Although agile, these campervans have limited interior spaces compared to larger motorhomes. Some of the features of a Class B RV include a small kitchen with a sink, minimal counter space, and a small cooktop.

Most of the Class B RVs have marine-style bathrooms combining features such as a toilet, shower, and sink in one room. Other features of the Class B RV are a sleeping area for two people and a storage area.

Class B RVs are suitable for adventurers on a budget and who want to explore more remote areas. It is ideal for singles, couples, or a small family.

• They are more fun as you can explore remote areas.
• Low costs of maintenance and repairs.
• They are economical in terms of fuel consumption.
• Does not require specialized training or a driver's license.
• Very limited storage and living spaces.
• Can only accommodate a limited number of people two adults and up to two children.
• Cannot accommodate larger appliances such as dishwashers, fridges, or laundry machines.

4. Class B+ RVs

The Class B+ RV lies somewhere between Class B and Class C. It has a relatively larger space than the B class. Typically, a class B+ RVs have the features of a van but it has a truck chassis.

Also, it features a wider and taller body than an ordinary van. It features slide-outs for more added storage and space.

It is agile like the Class B RV, capable of going to remote areas where other larger motorhomes cannot access. Additionally, Class B+ RVs are all-wheel drive allowing users more adventures in remote areas. It is a bit more spacious allowing up to four adults and smaller children.

• Easy to drive and convenient to park.
• Features an ample living, kitchen, and sleeping spaces.
• The bathroom facilities are separate and convenient.
• It is a all four-wheel drive for off-road experiences.
• It can accommodate various small-sized home appliances.
• Class B+ RVs are pricier than ordinary B class and some Class C RVs.

5. Class C RV

Class C RVs combine the best Class A and B features. They are significantly lighter and more compact than Class A but larger and feature more amenities than Class B. The size ranges between 20 to 28 feet and weighs around 10,000 and 13,000 pounds with a height of 10 feet. They are either constructed on a truck or van chassis.

The Class C RVs feature a private bedroom at the back of the RV. The over-cab space of the RV features a sleeping area for two and sofas, which can be folded into additional beds. It can accommodate up to eight people. You can expand the living space by pulling out the slide-outs.

The toilets and showers are separate making it more comfortable for more users. Other notable features include kitchen appliances such as dishwashers, a washing machine, a dining table, a television shelf, and an exterior door leading to the living space.

• It is reasonably affordable compared to Class A motorhomes.
• It has spacious sleeping and living areas.
• Features larger storage spaces compared to class B RVs.
• Has better fuel consumption efficiency.
• Equipped with basic amenities and comfort.
• Easy to maneuver than Class A RVs.
• The costs of repair, maintenance, and fuel for C-class RVs are high.
• It is fairly challenging to drive a C Class due to their relatively large body.
• Pricier than Class B motorhomes.

6. Super C Class RV

A Super C motorhome is an upgraded and heavy-duty Class C RV. Super C RVs are constructed on a heavy-duty truck chassis. Also, they are equipped with a strong diesel engine, which makes them ideal for withstanding heavy loads. The size of a Super C ranges from 33 and 45 feet.

The highlight of Super C motorhomes is the top bunk area over the cockpit used for sleeping or storage. It can accommodate up to seven people and it is perfect for traveling long distances.

• Adequate storage capacity below the floor.
• There are several slide-outs for increased space.
• Easy to drive and does not require specialized training or a license.
• They have high horsepower and remarkable torque, with a towing capacity ranging between 10,000 to 20,000 lbs.
• Super C Class are pricier than standard C class.
• Due to their large size, it is a bit hard to maneuver and park.
• Relatively high fuel consumption due to their high power needs and towing capacity.

Towable RV Classes

All towable RV Classes need a strong and capable tow vehicle. To tow efficiently, your towing vehicle or truck must be over a half-ton. The following are the common towable RV classes.

1. Pop-up Trailers

Pop-up trailers are the smallest type of RV. They do not have an engine. They are usually lightweight and easy to set up.

• They are cost-friendly and among the most affordable RVs.
• Pop-ups are lightweight and easy to tow.
• Easy storage. You can conveniently store it in your garage.
• They are safe to tow due to their compact size and lightweight nature.
• They are small in size. The user is limited to storage and living space.

2. Travel trailers

There are different types and sizes of travel trailers. Travel trailers are easy to set up. However, bigger travel trailers require a bigger and stronger tow vehicle. Most travel trailers are approximately 10 to 35 feet long.

• Travel trailers are more affordable than motorized RVs.
• Practical and easy to manage especially for people who don’t travel often.
• The cost of insuring and maintaining a travel trailer is minimal compared to a motorhome.
• Travel trailers depreciate slower than RVs.
• When not in use, you can rent out the trailer.
• Setting up campgrounds is hard and time-consuming.
• It is not the safest option on the road due to swaying.

3. Fifth Wheels

Fifth Wheel towable trailers are the largest Class of non-motorized RVs. They are also heavy and require a special hitch to mount it on the truck bed. Due to its heavy nature, you need an over one-ton truck to tow it safely.

Also, fifth wheels are more durable than other types of trailers. They offer a bigger living, sleeping, kitchen, and storage space making them ideal for full-time living. They are pricier compared to other types of towable trailers.

• They are safer to tow compared to travel trailers. The weight of the fifth wheel rests on the truck bed.
• More space and storage. Due to their massive size, fifth wheels have more space for beds, living, storage, and other essential amenities.
• Minimal maintenance costs than operating a motorhome.
• You must have a strong vehicle capable of safely towing the fifth-wheel.
• You cannot access the travel trailer while on the go.
• Requires a large storage space, which might cost a lot of money when not in use.

4. Truck Camper

Truck Campers are small-sized RVs usually mounted at the back of a pick-up truck. Most of the camper trucks have basic amenities such as a bed, kitchen, and bathroom. They can accommodate up to two people. You can remove the camper from the truck to suit your needs.

• They are versatile unlike the tow trailers.
• They are the most simplistic RVs with minimal maintenance requirements.
• Easy drivability due to the compact size and lightweight nature of the camper.
• Low depreciating value unlike other types of RVs and motorhomes.
• Easy to maneuver compared to trailers and fifth wheels.
• The space is limited for camper trucks. Can only fit two people.
• Not friendly to disabled people.
• It is hard and time-consuming to mount and detach the camper on the truck.

5. Hybrid Trailer

Hybrid RV trailers resemble a traditional fifth wheeler. It is a hybrid between a travel trailer and a pop-up camper. All the sides of a hybrid trailer are hard, except one side to allow pop-outs. The pop-outs have foldable beds. It allows the campers more space without exerting too much weight on the van. Hybrid trailers are suitable for traveling during warm weather.

• It is suitable for off-roads.
• You can access basic amenities such as solar power, water, beds, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
• Hard walls and heavy-duty canvas protect you against harsh weather.
• They are compact-sized and lightweight.
• They are more fuel-efficient compared to other RVs.
• Relatively easy and fast to set up
• Hybrid trailers are a bit pricey.
• Limited storage space.

6. Toy Haulers

Toy haulers are large travel trailers featuring a living space, bed, kitchen, and bathroom. The highlight of a toy hauler is that it allows you to bring a large toy such as a snowmobile, ATV, or bike. The toy haulers feature a door and a ramp at the back which is used for toy storage.

• They are extremely versatile as you can use it for storage, living, and camping
• Large storage convenient for carrying heavier toys allowing you to have more adventures.
• High resale value. They attract more value than other types of campers due to their versatility.
• They are a bit expensive in terms of purchasing, fueling, and maintenance.
• Not luxurious like other types of campers such as Fifth wheels.

7. A-Frame Trailer

Unlike the Pop-up camper, the A-frame trailer features foldable hard walls that are flat and compact for easy towing. When fully set up, they form an A shape. The pop-up roof provides additional space for sleeping. Although they are compact-sized, they take time to set up and tear down.

• Affordable than other types of RVs and trailers.
• Easy portability due to their foldable and compact nature.
• They are versatile and can be used for camping, outdoor activities, and tailgating.
• They are comfortable and convenient.
• It is challenging and time-consuming to set up and dismount it.
• They are not adequately insulated and can be uncomfortable during extreme hot or cold weather.
• It has limited storage space and amenities.

Comparison of the Various RV Classes

There are tons of RV classes and models in the market, which makes it daunting to find a perfect one. The following table will break down the outstanding features of the various RV classes.

Considerations When Choosing a RV Or a Trailer

There are several things you must consider when choosing the right RV or travel trailer for your adventures. The following are some of the key things to consider when choosing a perfect trailer or RV for your next adventure.

1. Your Budget

Recreational vehicles cost arm and length. Therefore, you will spend thousands or millions of dollars purchasing or leasing a recreational vehicle. Before you choose an RV, set aside a budget. Having a budget will restrict you from overspending.

2. Special Driver’s License

Some larger-sized RVs require specialized training and driving licenses. For instance, larger motorhomes such as heavy trailers, class A, and Class C will need specialized driver’s licenses.

3. Cost of Maintenance and Fueling

Most RVs have a reputation for high demand for fuel and high maintenance fees. However, some RVs have higher maintenance and fuel costs than others. Therefore, do your research before settling for any RV.

Remember, different RV classes have varying maintenance and costs of fuel. Additionally, the size and the shape of the trailer will have a varying amount of drag, thus affecting the fuel efficiency.

4. Registration and Licensing of RVs and Trailers

In some states, you must register and obtain a license to operate a recreational vehicle. Before purchasing the RV, check if there are any registration and licensing requirements in your state.

Key aspects that influence the type of license you will obtain for your RV include the age of the vehicle, length, weight, location of the engine, and the type of chassis. Check the respective regulations of the state before choosing the RV.

5. RV’s Storage Capacity

When choosing the RV, consider your storage needs. The bigger the motorhome, the larger the storage space. Smaller RVs have limited storage spaces.

When choosing a recreational vehicle, consider the RV length, floor plan, and height. Consider if you will travel with children and pets. The larger the family, the more need for storage space.

6. RV Storage or Parking Expenses

Where will you park the RV when it’s not in use? The bigger the recreational vehicle, the higher the storage costs. If you have enough space on your property, you can put up a storage shed for your RV or travel trailer. That way you can cut off storage costs. However, consider this before choosing an RV.

7. Towing Capacity

If you opt for a towable travel trailer, can your vehicle withstand the towing weight? Before you choose the RV trailer, ensure your car can support the weight of the trailer. Overloading will damage your vehicle.

Should You Buy an RV Or A Travel Trailer?

What’s the difference between a travel trailer and an RV? An RV or motorhome is driven with all its components and features, while the travel trailer is towed by another vehicle.

Motorhomes and travel trailers vary in sizes and features depending on your budget and customization requirements.

Which one should you buy? Here are crucial factors to consider in deciding whether to buy a travel trailer or a motorhome RV.

1. The Purchase Costs

The price margin between a travel trailer and a motorhome is big. The minimum cost of purchasing a motorhome is approximately $50,000 and runs up to millions of dollars.

Trailers are much more affordable, with prices ranging between $20,000 to $30,000. Therefore, your budget will guide you in deciding whether to choose a travel trailer or an RV.

2. Costs of Insurance

The costs of insuring a travel trailer are significantly lower compared to that of a motorhome or RV. Consult various insurers for customized insurance deals.

3. The Frequency of Usage

How frequently do you intend to use the RV or the travel trailer? This is a key factor to consider when deciding to buy an RV or a trailer.

If you travel often and for long distances, an RV is a good choice. However, if you intend to travel just a few times a year, a travel trailer is a better option.

4. Costs of Maintenance

Both the RV and travel trailer will require regular maintenance. Note that the costs of maintenance for the RV are higher compared to the costs of trailer maintenance.

You are likely going to spend thousands of dollars per year on the maintenance costs of a motorhome. The maintenance costs for the trailer are almost half of the RV.

5. Drivability and Comfort

RVs and motorhomes give you the luxury on-the-go experience. In most states, it is against the law to tow the travel trailer with people onboard.

If you are looking for ultimate luxury for your adventures, then a motorized RV is ideal. Also, some people are afraid of towing a trailer in the back due to swaying.

It’s a wrap for this detailed RV Classes guide. As you have read, there are several classes of RVs as well as towable trailers.

What do you prefer? If you are interested in buying or renting an RV, you can explore the various types discussed above. Consider crucial factors such as your budget, number of people to use the RV, frequency of travels, and travel distance.

Also, you take some of your top choices for a test drive to help you settle for the right one.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. do you require a specialized driver’s license for driving a motorhome.

Most smaller-sized RVs do not require a special driver’s license. However, larger RVs such as Class A, and travel trailers require the driver to have a special driving license. Check your State’s regulation regarding the RV driver licensing.

2. How can I tell if my vehicle is capable of towing a travel trailer?

First, understand your vehicle’s tow weight limit. Additionally, check the trailer’s GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) to help you determine the amount of load your vehicle can tow.

3. Is a Class A motorhome hard to drive?

Although challenging, driving a Class A motorhome is fairly manageable. However, you need special training and you should obtain a special driver’s license. Additionally, modern Class A RVs are equipped with cameras for easy navigation and visibility.

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