best rv road trips in the west

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 .

RV Itinerary West Coast – 26 Epic Places To Stop

The west coast is a gorgeous place that is perfect for exploring by RV in the United States. The only problem? Knowing where to go and what to see. That’s where our RV Itinerary West Coast comes into play.

This post is brought to you by  Good Sam parks.

Below, we’ve compiled all of our favorite west coast stops into one easy-to-read road trip itinerary plan. This outline is sure to help you start planning your own west coast adventure. Whether you change things up to meet your own needs and wants or stick to the plan exactly, you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring this incredible part of the country. 

Table of Contents

Stop 1: San Diego, CA

San Diego is a must-see location in SoCal. There are tons of amazing things to see and do in the city, and the culture of the place is unique and interesting. 

We recommend spending at least three to four days in San Diego, but you could easily fill two weeks in the area. Some of our favorite things to do in the city include the San Diego Trolley Tour, San Diego Seal Tour, USS Midway Museum, San Diego Zoo, and San Diego Botanical Garden. 

For even more recommendations of things to do in San Diego, check out our post:  15 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in San Diego With Kids .

Where to Eat

Where to stay.

• Campland on the Bay

Stop 2: Los Angeles, CA

As you move north, the next must-visit spot is Los Angeles. We recommend stopping for at least 4-5 days here, but a whole week (or even two) wouldn’t be uncalled for. 

Los Angeles may not be the prettiest city in the world, but it certainly is exciting, and it’s jam-packed with excellent attractions. These include the famous Hollywood sign, Malibu, the Santa Monica Pier, the Walk of Fame, California Science Center, and Venice Beach. Of course, you’ll also want to take a day to visit Disneyland while in the area. 

Want more ideas for things to do in Los Angeles? Check out our post:  The 36 Most Epic Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids .

• Orangeland RV Park

Stop 3: Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs is next on our list. This beautiful area has plenty to see, and we think it’s best to spend at least three to four days exploring. Some might even find they need more time. 

Some of the best things to do in and around Palm Springs include the amazing Joshua Tree National Park, Coachella Valley Preserve, the Canyon Ladder Hike, and Anza Borrego Desert State Park. 

• Palm Springs RV Resort

Stop 4: Death Valley National Park

Despite its name, Death Valley National Park is actually a beautiful place that everyone should visit at least once. We recommend spending two or three days in the park if possible. 

Not sure what to do during your visit? You’ll want to check out Badwater Basin, Dante’s View, and Devil’s Golf Course. More ideas can be found in our post:  14 Awesome Things to Do in Death Valley National Park. 

• Stovepipe Wells

Stop 5: Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park are sister parks that often get overlooked. We get it; Yosemite is the one that everyone talks about—but trust us when we say these parks are worth seeing and can even fill two or three entire days. 

In Sequoia, we recommend seeing the General Sherman Tree, visiting the Giant Forest Museum, and hitting some hiking trails. During your time in Kings Canyon, be sure to see the General Grant Tree, drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, and check out Grizzly Falls. 

More info on both parks can be found in our post:  19+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Sequoia National Park .

• Lemon Cove Village RV Park

Stop 6: Morro Bay

Need some beach time? Morro Bay is the perfect place for you. This small town is located right on the beach and is the perfect place to enjoy the salty air and explore tide pools. 

In our opinion, it’s best to spend two days in this adorable town in order to have time to walk the beach, try your hand at surfing, and explore the awesome aquarium. You could fill more time in the area by driving over to San Luis Obispo. 

• Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort

Stop 7: Big Sur

One of the prettiest places in the state of California, you absolutely must make a stop to see Big Sur. The beautiful rolling hills and amazing coastline are unlike anything else we’ve ever seen in this country. 

In order to check out the great hiking trails and incredible beaches in this area, we think you should spend a couple of days here at the very least. 

See what there is to do in Big Sur in our post:  18 Fun Things to Do in Big Sur California . 

• Marina Dunes RV Resort

Stop 8: Pinnacles National Park

Hike through caves and incredible rock formations at Pinnacles National Park. This one is a smaller park but is still worth visiting, and we could easily fill a couple of days exploring the park.

While in Pinnacles, make sure to hike the Juniper Canyon Trail for some amazing views. You might also want to see the Balconies Cliffs-Cave Loop for more awesome views and a hike through a cave (watch for bats!). 

If you want more info on Southern California, check out our post:  11 Awe-Inspiring Things to Do in Southern California . 

• San Benito RV and Camping Resort

Stop 9: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is another one of those must-see locations that should be included in all west coast road trips. The views here are awe-inspiring, the hikes are incredible, and there is so much to see and do that you will definitely want to spend five, six, or even more days there. 

One of our favorite things to do in Yosemite National Park is the Mist Trail. In fact, this might even be one of the best hikes we’ve ever done anywhere. More amazing Yosemite experiences can be found in our post:  21 Epic Things to Do in Yosemite National Park with Kids . 

• Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort

Stop 10: San Francisco, CA

Historic sites, awesome museums, and lovely historic homes make San Francisco an interesting place to visit. We spent several days in the San Francisco area, and we feel one would need at least four to five days to really get a feel for the place. 

Some of the best things to do in this city include checking out Chinatown, seeing the most crooked street in America, strolling Pier 39, and touring museums. We also highly recommend driving over to Muir Woods and Point Reyes Seashore. 

Want more ideas? Check out our post:  17 Unforgettable Things to Do in San Francisco with Kids . 

• Marin RV Park

Stop 11: Lake Tahoe

When you finish checking out San Francisco, escape the hustle and bustle of the big city by heading to the gorgeous Lake Tahoe. We could spend many days relaxing in this area, but if you’re on a tight schedule, you could probably stay for just a few days and still have a blast. 

We highly recommend doing some paddle boarding or kayaking out on the lake. Hiking and biking around the lake are also great options. Of course, you might want to try your hand at skiing in the winter. 

Those who need more suggestions should check out our post:  32 Spectacular Things to Do in Lake Tahoe . 

• Tahoe Valley Campground

Stop 12: Russian River Valley

Russian River Valley is another fantastic escape into nature, Russian River Valley is the perfect place to go for some fun in the water. You see, the main attraction here is the beautiful Russian River, which offers opportunities for tubing and swimming that the whole family can enjoy together. 

We recommend spending at least two or three days in the area, but you’ll want more if you plan to drive into Santa Rosa or any nearby town. 

• Russian River Brewing Company
• River Bend Resort

Stop 13: Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg may not be the biggest city in California, but it is still one that is worth stopping for. Here you can check out the amazing Glass Beach, where bits of colorful sea glass litter the sand. You can also visit Russian Gulch State Park from this location. 

To do these things, you will need at least two or three days in the Fort Bragg area. Of course, it’s always possible to find more fun, so staying longer is not a bad choice. 

• Pomo RV Park and Campground

Stop 14: Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Redwood trees are some of those things you really need to see for yourself to understand just how spectacular they are. This state park features a lovely forest made up of plant giants, and we recommend giving yourself a few days to really explore the place. 

While in the area, make sure to drive to the town square and herb shop in Arcata. Other spots that are worth day trips include the Loleta Cheese Factory in Loleta and Humboldt Cider Company in Eureka. 

• Loleta Cheese Factory
• Humboldt Cider Company
• Ancient Redwoods RV Park

Stop 15: Redwoods National Park

For more redwoods fun, be sure to take the time to visit Redwoods National Park to view the redwood forest. It should be noted that this park is not like most other national parks in that it is spread out with multiple sections along the coast. If you want to see the entire park, you will need several days to do so, but even just seeing one section is worthwhile. 

Really, any section you choose to visit will be fantastic. We especially enjoyed the Fern Canyon trail because this is where scenes from one of the  Jurassic Park  movies were filmed. 

• Kamp Klamath RV Park Campground

Stop 16: Lassen Volcanic National Park

Another wonderful national park, Lassen Volcanic National Park, is an awesome place to explore. Give yourself at least one full day in the park, and plan to stay longer in order to see “the most beautiful waterfall in California” at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.

During your time in the national park, make sure to watch the video in the visitor center to learn about the different volcanoes found in the park. After that, drive the length of the park to admire the many volcanoes. Making time for a hike is also a good idea!

More awesome ideas for a Northern California road trip can be found in our post:  12 Epic Things to Do in Northern California . 

• Hat Creek Resort & RV Park

Stop 17: Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is a stunning place that you will definitely want to visit. Take a day to drive around the lake and take in all the amazing views. Add an extra day to do some hiking.

While parked near Crater Lake, make sure to head a bit south to see Lava Beds National Monument. This awesome park offers guests the opportunity to explore 20+ caves. Make sure you bring your own headlamp, as they are pricey at the visitor center!

• Waterwheel RV Park and Campground

Stop 18: Southern Oregon Coast

The Oregon coast is 100% magical, and we highly recommend exploring as much of it as you possibly can. That’s why this itinerary includes three stops along the coast. 

You will want to plan at least three to four days for your southern Oregon coast stop. During this time, you should visit and hike the beautiful Humbug Mountain State Park, take in the views at Coquille Point, explore the small town of Bandon (and get some food and ice cream there), and hop on a boat with Jerry’s Rogue Jets. 

• Tony’s Crab Shack
• Cranberry Sweets and More
• Face Rock Creamery
• Cypress Hills RV Campground

Stop 19: McKenzie River National Recreation Area

Once you get a taste of the Oregon coast, it might be tempting to stay on the coast, but trust us when we say you won’t want to miss the McKenzie River National Recreation Area. 

The scenery here is breathtaking, and the city of McKenzie Bridge has some fun stuff to check out. We especially love the Dee Wright Observatory, the Blue Pool, and the Waterfall Loop. One could easily fill two or three days exploring this gorgeous place. 

Want to learn more about this magical place? Check out our post:  How To Spend 3 Amazing Days In Mckenzie River Oregon .

• McKenzie General Store
• Eugene Premier RV Resort

Stop 20: Mid Oregon Coast

After your visit to the recreation area, you will head back west and check out the middle of the Oregon coast. We think it’s best to plan to spend three to five days here, depending on what you plan to see. 

First, you definitely want to see the town of Florence and try your hand at sandboarding. The sand dunes in the Oregon Sand Dunes National Recreation Area are also great for riding ATVs and even sledding.

You will definitely want to take the time to see Thor’s Well and make sure to do some tidepooling while you’re there. Newport and Yacht are both cool beach towns that are fun to explore as well. 

• Yachats Brewery
• SeaPerch RV Resort

Stop 21: Portland, OR

We love visiting Portland, Oregon. It has such a great vibe and so many great things to do and places to eat. Some of the best things to see while in the city include Powell’s Books, the International Rose Garden, and Forest Park. That said, we have a lot more ideas listed in our post:  32 Epic Things to Do in Portland with Kids . 

We also really enjoyed exploring outside of town and highly recommend driving the Hood River Fruit Loop. If you aren’t sure where to stop along the loop, check out our post:  The 10 Best Stops on the Hood River Fruit Loop . 

• Voodoo Doughnut
• Blue Star Donuts
• Pip’s Original Donuts and Chai
• Afuri Ramen and Dumpling
• Slappy Cakes
• Salt and Straw
• Bollywood Theatre
• Sandy Riverfront RV Resort

Stop 22: Northern Oregon Coast

After Portland, you’ll return once again to the coast. This time you’ll be exploring the northern part of the coast, and you should plan a stay of three or four days at least. 

While you’re on the northern coast, we highly recommend seeing the town of Tillamook and trying the ice cream and cheese at Tillamook Cheese Factory. Visits to the adorable towns of Seaside and Cannon Beach are also in order. The tide pools at Indian Beach are fantastic, and Ecola State Park offers lovely views of the pacific ocean and sea stacks. Finally, make sure to visit the  Goonies  house in Astoria. 

More great Oregon coast info can be found in our post:  26 Oregon Coast Road Trip Stops You Don’t Want to Miss . 

• Buoy Brewery
• Astoria Brewing Company
• Pelican Brewing
• Public Coast Brewing
• Cannon Beach RV Resort

Stop 23: Mount Rainier National Park

A beautiful place, Mount Rainier National Park is a must-see for anyone taking a west coast road trip. Unfortunately, because of snow in the winter and fog on certain days throughout the year, it can be difficult to see the mountain. Still, it is worth a try, as the mountain and the park are magnificent. 

In addition to seeing Mount Rainier, we also recommend taking a day trip to see Mount St. Helens and learning all about the relatively recent eruption of this volcano. We especially enjoyed exploring the lava tubes in this park. 

If you choose to do both parks, we recommend allowing two to three days for this stop. 

• Rainier Wings / Packwood RV Park

Stop 24: Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an interesting stop because it is such a diverse park. Here, you can explore a rainforest, gorgeous beaches, mountains, and waterfalls. Make sure you give yourself at least three days so you can see all of the different environments, as each one has its own special kind of magic to offer. 

Not sure what to do in the park? We recommend the Hall of Mosses Trail, Ruby Beach, and Sol Duc Falls area. More suggestions can be found in our post:  12 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in Olympic National Park .

• Hoquiam River RV Park

Stop 25: Seattle, WA

Seattle is an awesome city with a unique history that is worth learning about located in Washington State. Spend at least a couple of days here in order to give yourself time to explore the many great attractions the city offers.

To learn about that aforementioned history, we recommend a stop at the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. Of course, you will want to get a photo in front of the Space Needle and visit Pike Place Market, Don’t forget to play on the playground located outside of the Museum of Pop Culture, and if you can swing it, a visit to the Museum of Pop Culture is also worth putting on your to-do list. 

• Issaquah Village RV Park

Stop 26: North Cascades National Park

Last but definitely not least, we must add North Cascades National Park to our RV travel lineup. This is an incredibly beautiful park that offers amazing views, bright blue waters, fun hikes, and lots of opportunities for wildlife viewing. 

Some of our favorite things we did in this park were Diablo Lake Overlook, Blue Lake Trail (where the kids could get in the water), and the challenging Sahale Glacier Trail. 

You can learn more about our visit to North Cascades in our post:  17 Amazing Things to Do in North Cascades National Park . 

• Grandy Creek RV Campground

There you have it, an itinerary that will help you know where to go as you explore the beauty of the west coast. Happy trails, and we’ll see you down the road!

More Info Check Out:

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Everything You Need to Know About Good Sam Rentals

Benefits of Having Good Sam TravelAssist

12 Fun and Exciting Things To Do In Olympic National Park

17 Amazing Things To Do In North Cascades National Park

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18 Fun Things To Do In Big Sur California [Maps Included]

26 Oregon Coast Road Trip Stops You Don’t Want To Miss

32 Epic Things To Do In Portland With Kids [Itinerary Included]

9 Awesome Things To Do In West Yellowstone

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East Coast RV Trip Itinerary – 16 Awesome Stops To Make

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The ultimate RV road trip in the American West

A trip by RV is the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime experience for a memorable Western USA road trip .

So if you're looking for a road trip that will leave you with unforgettable memories, buckle up and get ready for 21 days of total freedom!  

Road trip map

Road trip summary, day 1-2 : san francisco.

Your trip to the American West begins with your arrival in the San Francisco, a city known the world over for its tolerance and social and cultural diversity. 

Take advantage of your free day to explore its many small neighborhoods, all of which can be easily visited on foot and by public transit. 

To get to Fisherman's Wharf, be sure to ride the famous historic cable car, which has been transporting San Francisco residents for more than a century. 

Finally, don't leave the city without crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, emblem of the city. 

Whether you're walking or pedaling, try to be there in time to watch the sunset!

And if you pay close attention, you may even catch a glimpse of a whale. 

USA by Motorhome

Day 3 : monterey (136 km).

In the early afternoon, pick up your RV rental in San Francisco .

It's time for the ultimate RV road trip to begin! Your first destination is Monterey, a typical California coastal town . 

As you don't have far to drive today, check out 17-Mile Drive, a private scenic route with paid access. 

It passes through one of the richest and most famous residential districts on the west coast , offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.   

RV RENTAL PRICE COMPARISON TOOL

Day 4 : pismo beach (271 km).

Your road trip continues with Pismo Beach, a stopover town known for its beaches and dunes. 

Aboard your RV, you will have the chance to follow the Pacific coast along one of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world: Highway 1. 

Between dizzying cliffs and picturesque ocean scenery, you will be amazed by the beauty around you, guaranteed!

This short overnight stop will allow you to fully enjoy this iconic Californian coastal road and its many scenic viewpoints.

Among others, don't miss the stunning and rugged Pfeiffer Beach as well as Bixby Bridge, the most photogenic of all American bridges. 

Day 5-6 : Los Angeles (240 km)

You're on your way to the destination that best embodies the famous American dream!

The city is huge and the public transit system is tedious. But don't worry, even when travelling by !!! RV!!!, it is possible to get around in the City of Angels without too much trouble.

When you arrive, park near the famous Hollywood Boulevard and spend a few hours walking along the Walk of Fame, immersing yourself in the crazy atmosphere. 

If you're interested in show business and want to play paparazzi, you'll be happy to know that Hollywood Boulevard is the starting point for several guided tours of the homes of stars. 

Finally, devote part of your second day in the city to soaking up some sun on Venice Beach, a very bohemian seaside neighbourhood.

Be prepared to meet all kinds of people: musicians, dancers, fitness buffs, painters, vendors, fortune tellers, and much more. 

Day 7 : Kingman (570 km)

Today will be a very special day, as you will take the mythical Route 66 towards its historic heart: Kingman.

Stop off on the way in Calico, a ghost town founded during the Gold Rush era, which was completely restored in the 1950s as a tourist site. 

Then, a little further on, you'll find the famous Bagdad Café from the Percy Adlon film. Stop in this iconic spot for a few pictures and a little pick-me-up.

Continue to Oatman, a former mining town filled with history, ghosts, and tourism options .

Today the town is home to less than 130 people, but a large population of wild burros, descendants of the beasts of burden brought to the area by long-ago miners, wander freely through the streets!

Then, hang on to the wheel of your RV and make your way towards the Sitgreaves Pass, a magnificent stretch of old Route 66, which winds through breathtaking desert landscapes. 

At the end of the day, near Kingman, stop at Cool Springs Station, a former camp and service station built in the early 1920s.

Burnt to the ground in the 1960s, it was completely rebuilt in 2001 to the delight of passing tourists. 

Day 8-9 : Grand Canyon (274 km)

This morning, a true natural wonder awaits you!

You will be staying on the south rim of the Grand Canyon, where the most beautiful attractions are to be found. It is also much more accessible than the north rim.

But first, you simply must treat yourself to a helicopter tour. Enjoy a bird's eye view of the canyon, from its more-visited south rim to the wilder and less accessible north rim. It's a unique chance to see the whole canyon, and definitely the experience of a lifetime!

The next day, begin your exploration at Mather Point, the most beautiful viewpoint in the park. You will be left speechless by the vastness of the landscape before you.

From here, you can continue your discovery of the park on foot along the South Rim Trail. 

At the end of the day, take your RV along Desert View Drive to Desert View Point, where a beautiful sunset awaits you. 

Day 10 : Monument Valley (288 km)

Today holds more excitement in store, this time in the heart of the Far West.

First, head to Forrest Gump Point on Highway 163. Made famous by the character played by Tom Hanks, this iconic spot offers a most spectacular view. 

After a few photos, head to the heart of the valley, where an entry fee is required. 

As you are traveling by RV, the best way to explore it is to book a tour with a Navajo guide.

Your guide will lead you to the foot of the most beautiful geological formations and take you to places otherwise inaccessible to tourists. 

This will be a great opportunity to learn all about Native American history and culture, and you may even get to visit a traditional house.

You're sure to take away lasting memories of this day. 

Day 11 : Lake Powell (212 km)

Today's destination is Lake Powell, an artificial lake of a startling blue!

But first of all, you simply must visit two must-see attractions of the American West. 

In the morning, head to Antelope Canyon, a true masterpiece of nature, created by erosion.

The only way to visit this natural wonder is with a guided tour, booked months in advance. Be sure to plan ahead, because magical moments await you! 

Then make another stop at Horseshoe Bend, the famous horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River.

A short 20-minute walk leads to an overlook with stunning views: you'll never want to leave!

Head for your campground in Lake Powell at the end of the day.

But before settling in for the night, make sure you don't miss the sunset at Wahweap overlook. 

Day 12-13 : Bryce Canyon (234 km)

Your tour continues with another classic of the American West: Bryce Canyon and its famous amphitheater of rocky spires and pillars called hoodoos. 

These pillars, formed by erosion, create a one-of-a-kind landscape. 

The best way to explore the park is a walk along the Rim Trail, an easy trail that follows the edge of the cliff, offering a multitude of viewpoints. 

And if you want to go down into the amphitheatre for a close look at the hoodoos, the combination of the Navajo Loop Trail and the Queen's Garden Trail is a must! 

Day 14 : Zion (134 km)

Your next destination is Zion National Park.

To get there, you will need to take the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, one of the most beautiful scenic routes in the U.S.

This 16-kilometre stretch of road will take you up and down switchbacks at an altitude of 1,130 to 2,700 metres, through a two-kilometre-long tunnel and delivers spectacular views.

Since you are travelling by RV, you will have to purchase a tunnel permit of $10 in addition to the park entry fee. Rest assured, it is well worth the expense!

Just before the tunnel, don't miss the Canyon Overlook Trail, a 30-minute hike that leads to a breathtaking panoramic view!

Day 15-16 : Las Vegas (280 km)

Next you head for the largest city in the State of Nevada.

Renowned for its numerous casinos, its extravagant hotels, its theaters and for being a mecca of entertainment, for many Las Vegas is a dream come true!

One thing is certain: you won't be bored here! 

Be sure to go to the top of the observation tower at the Strat. 

With a height of 350 meters, it offers the most beautiful view of the famous Strip.   

Day 17 : Mammoth Lakes (514 km)

After two days in the City of Sin, hit the road again for the fresh air of the great outdoors. 

The resort town of Mammoth Lakes is a real paradise for outdoors enthusiasts, in winter and summer alike.

Make sure you take the time to do the short 4-km round-trip Crystal Lake Trail.

Day 18-19 : Yosemite (520 km)

After a short break, get back behind the wheel and head to one of California's most iconic national parks.  

To get there, you will need to take Tioga Road, a scenic high mountain road that runs through the northern section of the park and offers a breathtaking variety of landscapes. 

When it comes to nature, Yosemite Valley will not disappoint: dizzying cliffs, powerful waterfalls and giant sequoias await you. 

Must-see attractions include the impressive, winding drive to Glacier Point , which leads to a spectacular viewpoint of the same name, and the famous Tunnel View.

Hiking enthusiasts are also sure to enjoy themselves, no matter what level of difficulty they are looking for. 

Day 20 : Napa Valley  (310 km)

This morning, set a heading for the last leg of your trip: Napa Valley.

Renowned for its numerous vineyards, this region is the perfect place to end a road trip in the American West on a high note!

If you are interested in wine, opt for a guided tour. This alternative will allow you to enjoy the tastings without having to drive. 

Enjoy your last day, and don't take any unnecessary risks!

Day 21 : San Francisco (75 km)

Head back to San Francisco to return your RV. 

It's time to make your way to the to the airport for your flight home.

Your vacation is over, but you return home with hearts filled with beautiful memories.

An enthusiast of both our vibrant cities & great oudoors, my life revolves around travel & adventure. It's a no brainer that I have to share the wonders & secrets of my neck of the woods with other travelling souls. Enjoy the journey!

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RVing with Rex

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

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

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

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

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

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

Badlands National Park : South Dakota

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

Great Smoky Mountains National Park : North Carolina and Tennessee

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

Banff National Park: Alberta

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

Charleston : South Carolina

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

Bryce Canyon National Park : Utah

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

Blue Ridge Parkway : North Carolina and Virginia

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

Sedona : Arizona

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

Joshua Tree National Park : California

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

Zion National Park : Utah

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

Wells Gray Country : British Columbia

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

Boston Freedom Trail : Massachusetts

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

Scenic Byway 12 : Utah

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

Green Mountain Byway: Vermont’s Route 100

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

Dead Horse Point State Park : Utah

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

Tombstone: Arizona

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

Jekyll Island Club Resort : Georgia

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

Santa Fe : New Mexico

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

Remember the Alamo : San Antonio, Texas

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

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge : Georgia

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

Canyon de Chelly National Monument : Arizona

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

Mesa Verde National Park : Colorado

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

Red Rocks State Park : Sedona, Arizona

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

Monument Valley : Arizona and Utah

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

My Old Kentucky Home State Park : Kentucky

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

Mitchell Corn Palace : South Dakota

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

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument : Washington

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

Shiner : Texas

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

Gulf State Park: Alabama

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

Icefields Parkway: Alberta

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

Cherohala Skyway : North Carolina and Tennessee

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

Catalina Highway : Arizona

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

Myakka River State Park : Florida

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

Natural Bridges National Monument : Utah

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

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument : Arizona

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

San Antonio Missions : Texas

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

Incline Railway : Chattanooga, Tennessee

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

Lassen Volcanic National Park: California

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

Okanagan Wine Region : British Columbia

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

Cedar Breaks National Monument : Utah

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

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park : Alberta

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

Lake Powell : Utah and Arizona

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

Creole Nature Trail : Louisiana

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

Grand Canyon National Park : Arizona

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

Jasper National Park: Alberta

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

Congaree National Park : South Carolina

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

Black Hills : South Dakota

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

Blue Bell Ice Cream : Brenham, Texas

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

Colonial Williamsburg : Virginia

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

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

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

Ohio Amish Country : Holmes County

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

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

Worth Pondering…

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

The Wandering Road

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 Itinerary for a Western US Road Trip

The American West has been the backdrop for centuries of lore, and for good reason. The region is packed with soaring peaks and rugged passes, wide deserts and alluring oases, high alpine meadows and long winding rivers. Our RV itinerary for a Western US road trip was developed to see it all and get a true slice of our beloved Western landscapes.

This trip begins and ends in Denver, creating a loop through most of Utah and Colorado. Each campground is a treasure in itself and is close to many noteworthy spots such as National Parks for additional days of adventure.

Recommended: Mountain States Road Trip

1. Rifle Gap State Park , Colorado

• 3 hours’ drive from Denver

To kick off our Western US RV itinerary, we’re taking you west of Denver. Located at approximately 6,000 feet of elevation, Rifle Gap State Park is set amidst a high semi-arid landscape of pinyon-juniper woodlands and sagebrush shrubland, all surrounded by piñon and cedar-covered mountains. The park is home to a great deal of wildlife including mule deer, elk, and great horned owls. The park is situated alongside a reservoir with clean, clear waters. Some of the best scuba diving, boating, swimming, water skiing, and fishing in Colorado can be had here. There is also plenty of hiking through the park and adjacent region. Wintertime brings plenty of cold weather activities like ice fishing and cross-country skiing. There are 89 campsites that can accommodate tents, small trailers, RVs, and pop-up campers.

Reserve a Campsite

2. Green River State Park , Utah

• 2.5 hours’ drive from Rifle Gap State Park

The second stop on our RV Itinerary in the Western US is Green River State Park, a destination for river runners, golfers, and wildlife lovers alike. The park is an entrance point for the 120-mile float through Labyrinth and Stillwater Canyons. This section is rated for beginners and intermediate boaters and takes you through stunning desert and canyon country. Anglers can cast a line for catfish, carp, and four unique native fish that are threatened with extinction and protected, although these fish should be released.

The community fishing pond also has Largemouth Bass, Rainbow Trout, and BlueGill. The park also has a challenging nine-hole golf course, and many major attractions are within a two hours drive, including Arches and Canyonlands. The campground has 51 sites, including a cabin, and is shaded by tall cottonwood trees that attract numerous bird species.

Book Your Spot Today

Recommended: Itinerary: New England RV & Camping Trip

3. Great Salt Lake State Park , Utah

• 3 hours’ drive from Green River State Park

What RV trip out west itinerary could be complete without a stop off at the Great Salt Lake? This iconic piece of Western Americana is actually a remnant of the much larger lake that spanned an astonishing 20,000 square miles during the last ice age. The modern lake is about 75 miles north to south, and 35 miles east to west. Learn all about the lake and its history at the visitor center. Visitors can also go boating, kayaking, or swimming in the waters, or go for a walk along its shores. The campgrounds are located on the southern edge of the lake and have picnic areas and pleasant views of the harbor and lake. There are a handful of campsites, including five RV sites, so get your spot now!

Reserve Your RV Site

4. Escalante Petrified Forest State Park , Utah

• 5 hours’ drive from Great Salt Lake State Park

Set along rolling hills of varied color, with a deep blue lake at its center, Escalante Petrified ForestState Park is classic arid southern Utah topography. In addition to the beauty of the area and the park’s proximity to Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, the big attraction at Escalante Petrified Forest is of course the fossilized trees. The wood is kaleidoscopic in color, which was created over millions of years. The helpful visitor center has fantastic displays with petrified wood, petrified dinosaur bones, ammonite, and shell fossils to learn more about the park’s unique and deep history. Take one of the short hiking trails and enjoy expansive vistas of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. Afterward, go fishing, boating, or canoeing in Wide Hollow Reservoir. There are 20 campgrounds and an RV park.

Make Your Reservation

Recommended: Itinerary: Blue Ridge Parkway RV Road Trip

5. Mancos State Park , Colorado

• 6.5-hour drive from Escalante Petrified Forest State Park

This last section of the RV Itinerary Western US takes you back up into a part of the Rockies. Nestled within the majestic San Juan Mountains, Mancos State Park is an inviting southwest Colorado destination. Visitors come for the excellent fishing and camping, and pleasant year-round temperatures. Its location is also convenient to visit Mesa Verde National Park, just 14 miles away. Sleep beneath the Ponderosa pines that dot the campgrounds and extend into the surrounding forest. Go for a hike, spot local wildlife, or simply kick back and enjoy the view of the glistening lake and mountains. There are 25 basic RV sites and two yurts.

6. Ridgway State Park , Colorado

• 2.5 hours’ drive from Mancos State Park
• 5 hours’ drive to Denver

The final stop on this RV Itinerary Western US is set in a peaceful and sunny part of Colorado dubbed the “Switzerland of America.” Ridgway State Park beckons outdoor lovers far and wide. The mountain scenery creates the backdrop for an extensive trail system and plenty of wildlife viewing. The five-mile long reservoir is beloved for boating, fishing, jet skiing, and swimming. There are 232 RV sites and three yurts for rent.

Book Your Campsite Today

Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!

24 Epic Western US Road Trips for Your Bucket List!

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Planning to explore the western United States? These epic western US road trips are a fabulous way to discover the diverse and beautiful landscapes for which the west is famous.

Majestic mountain parks studded with alpine lakes. Vast expanses of desert. One of the most beautiful coastlines on the planet. A plethora of lively cities and laid-back towns. You’ll find all these and much more in the western USA.

From the Rockies to the American Southwest and the California coast, there are many iconic road trip routes from which to choose.

While we’ve done numerous Western US road trips, for this round-up of the best western US road trip ideas, we asked travel blogging colleagues to chime in with their favorites as well, to give you a wide variety of options for your next adventure on the great open road.

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. For more details, refer to our disclosure .

From the great national parks of the west to vibrant cities, our western US road trip itineraries offer diversity and excitement.

Our amazing US West road trip itineraries will make you want to load up the car and head out on an adventure immediately.

Let’s get started discovering the most amazing road trips in the west!

California Highway One Road Trip Between Los Angeles And San Francisco

One of the most popular road trips in California (and arguably in the United States!) is Highway 1 between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Sometimes known as the Pacific Coast Highway road trip, this iconic west coast road trip adventure is on many travelers’ bucket list.

This 450-mile drive along the California coast has everything you could want in a road trip, and you can drive it in either direction.

While you could easily spend weeks exploring everything along this route,  4-5 days is a good length  to experience the highlights.

California is known for having lovely weather most of the year, but any time from April to October is ideal for this road trip. Late spring is a particularly nice time, with bright green hillsides and lots of wildflowers.

No matter what you like to do, you’ll find countless things to see and experience throughout this drive.

The two California cities that book-end the drive, LA and San Francisco, are iconic destinations you’ll definitely want to explore!

Take a cruise of the San Francisco Bay, explore Golden Gate park, walk (or bike) the Golden Gate Bridge, and tour Alcatraz in San Francisco.

In Los Angeles, hike up to the Hollywood sign, explore Hollywood, enjoy the beach and Ferris wheel in Santa Monica, and discover the many museums and gardens.

Animal lovers will enjoy spotting elephants seals, sea otters, whales, and dolphins along the coast. If you look up, you might even spot the endangered California condor, with its massive wingspan!

There are dozens of hikes in the many state parks and along the beaches for every skill level.

Santa Barbara is one of the best stops on the Pacific Coast Highway , and you’ll love exploring the charming towns of the Central Coast, from Pismo Beach to Morro Bay and Cambria .

Probably the most famous stretch of this drive is Big Sur , a 90-mile portion between San Simeon and Carmel-by-the-Sea that boasts the most unforgettable views.

Here you can see the famous Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, and Hearst Castle.

Make sure you spend some time at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and marvel at the stunning redwoods, and visit beautiful Pfeiffer Beach.

To the north of Big Sur, Monterey offers excellent whale-watching and a world-class aquarium. South of Big Sur, the little seaside village of Cambria makes for a lovely stop!

And don’t forget about the food! Take advantage of all the local seafood restaurants and fill up on some amazing cuisine along the way.

Suggested by Stefanie of Open Road Odysseys

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks Road Trip

For one of the best road trips in the western US, head to the beautiful states of Wyoming and Montana. 

On this road trip, you will explore the stunning Grand Teton National Park and the unique  Yellowstone National Park . They are two of the most iconic national parks in the western USA !

Start your journey in either Jackson Hole, Wyoming, or Gardiner, Montana. This road trip is approximately 150 miles.

A week is a good estimate of the amount of time you will need to explore this area.

The best time to take this road trip is from mid-May until late September. The reason for this is that many of the facilities and roads in the Tetons are closed during the winter months.

Jackson Hole is the closest town to Grand Teton National Park. 

When in Jackson Hole, visit Jackson Town Square for a great place to walk around, shop, and dine.

After exploring the town of Jackson Hole, make your way to Grand Teton National Park.

This park is famous for its stunning Teton range. The Tetons are a great place to take in scenic views, and go hiking, biking, fishing, and rafting.

After exploring the Tetons, you will be on your way to the popular Yellowstone National Park. 

See Old Faithful, The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Lamar Valley, and Mammoth Springs. Look for herds of bison and other wildlife!

The closest town to Mammoth Springs is Gardiner, the North Entrance of Yellowstone.

Get your picture taken at the Roosevelt Arch and explore this cute, western town to end your epic road trip. 

Suggested by Kim of Traveling Swansons

If you are looking to rent a car for your Western US road trip, consider  Discover Cars ! They scour multiple providers to get the best price for you, including brands like Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Budget, and Sixt. Check prices and availability on car rentals now!

the Oregon Coast: One of the Best Western US Road Trips!

The Oregon Coast is truly a beautiful stretch of the West Coast and is a great place to go on a road trip.

You can start your road trip anywhere along the coast, but the ideal starting point is at the very southwestern corner of Oregon, near Brookings, from where you can work your way up to Astoria, in the very northwestern corner.

To travel the entire coast, it’ll be just over 300 miles, and you can fully experience it in 5-6 days.

Though the coast is beautiful year-round, the best time of year to visit Oregon is the summer months, as the weather is warmer, and the sun tends to be out more often.

Even just the drive along Highway 101 on the coast is unbelievably beautiful.

Starting in southwestern Oregon, your first stop should be Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. Here one of the best things to see is Natural Bridges, a unique and beautiful rock formation over the Pacific Ocean.

About 3 hours north, stop in Florence at Sand Master Sandboarding to rent sandboards and enjoy some time boarding down the Oregon Sand Dunes.

Next, in Yachats, you’ll find the famous Thor’s Well, a sinkhole on the coast that seems to be bottomless.

For one of the most unique and beautiful places along the Oregon Coast, head to Cape Kiwanda. This phenomenal location has sand dunes and red sandstone rock formations.

Cannon Beach, Seaside, and Astoria will be the final stops on your Oregon road trip.

Here you’ll find some of the beautiful filming locations for popular movies like The Goonies. These are some of the most popular places on the coast, so they’ll likely be fairly busy.

If you’re planning a road trip in the Western U.S., you should definitely consider the Oregon Coast!

Suggested by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

Los Angeles to Southern California Deserts Road Trip

The Southern California deserts offer spectacular scenery, old west history, and diverse hiking opportunities. With several parks to visit, a road trip is the ideal way to enjoy the desert vistas.

Los Angeles makes the perfect start and end point for this loop trip, especially if you are flying into the area.

This epic California desert road trip itinerary covers 851 miles, and you’ll need a minimum of 7 days to do justice to all the parks. Of course, if you can spend longer, you can do more hikes, and take in more desert sunrises and sunsets (they tend to be amazing!).

It’s a desert road trip, so the cooler months of the year are the best time for this trip: any time from late fall to early spring is great.

Starting from LA, make your way to Death Valley National Park , where you can gape at the badlands from Zabriskie Point, drive up to Dante’s View for panoramas, walk the salt flats in the Badwater Basin, and hike the dunes at Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes.

If you have the time, do a short detour to Lone Pine en route to Death Valley. Here you can explore the beautiful Alabama Hills, in the high desert. The rock formations are spectacular!

Next, you’ll visit another beautiful California desert national park, Joshua Tree . Your driving route takes you through the Mojave National Preserve, where you can visit a historic railroad depot and climb even higher Kelso Dunes.

Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its enormous boulder formations and strange-looking Joshua trees. Hike, go rock climbing, and visit old west ranches and remnants of mines.

All of these parks offer excellent night sky observing. You’ll be amazed at the number of stars you can see on moonless nights!

Take a city break in Palm Springs , known for its mid-century modern architecture, resorts and spas, and shopping and dining. Try a date shake, tour a wind farm, or visit desert botanical gardens.

Your final stop on this deserts road trip is Borrego Springs. Explore Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California’s largest state park. If you visit in the spring of a good bloom year, you will be treated to fantastic wildflower displays here.

After you complete your explorations of the park, return to Los Angeles to complete your road trip.

Suggested by Dhara of Roadtripping California

Washington State National Parks Road Trip

This  Washington State road trip  is great if you only have one week to spend in Washington State, and you enjoy hiking, but you aren’t an incredibly experienced hiker. It’s roughly 550 miles total.

This road trip begins and ends in Seattle and is best done during late spring, summer, or early fall.

Once you grab your rental car in Seattle, head to Mount Rainier National Park. This incredible park surrounds glacier-capped, 14,410-foot Mount Rainier.

You can admire Mount Rainier from the Sunrise Visitors Center, which can easily be reached by car. There are also many incredible hikes to take in Mount Rainer National Park.

The Grove of Patriarchs is also a must-do in Mount Rainier National Park. The trees here are estimated to be over 1,000 years old, and they are HUGE.

The next stop on your road trip will be Olympic National Park. Here, the Quinault Rainforest will be the first highlight to visit.

Then, drive to Kalaloch Beach, which is home to “The Tree of Life.” Ruby Beach is also close by and worth a visit, thanks to its unique landscape and rock formations.

The Hoh Rainforest is also worth visiting, as are the La Push beaches just outside of Forks, Washington. At Hoh, be sure to stroll the Hall of Mosses Trail!

After you’ve had your share of hiking, and the outdoors, head back to Seattle for a day of fun exploring the city!

From the Pike Place Fish Market to “The Fremont Troll” to the Seattle Center, there are plenty of fun things to do and see in Seattle before you head back home. 

Suggested by Lindsey of Have Clothes, Will Travel

Utah Road Trip

The state of Utah is full of magnificent canyons, red rock formations, and other scenery, and one of the best ways to see it is by taking a road trip from Moab to Zion.

Stop at lots of slot canyons in Escalante along the way, and then end with the thrilling Angels Landing hike in Zion National Park.

For this road trip, you’ll need to drive a distance of at least 400 miles, and plan on about 7 to 10 days.

Utah is nice any time of year, although you might want to avoid going in the mid-summer months (July and August) because of the excessive heat.

Moab has lots of its own things to see, including the Arches National Park and a wide variety of canyons, dunes, and hoodoos.

The Corona Arch trail is a good lesser known hike outside of the national park.

Dead Horse Point State Park is also a must visit!

Some of the best places to stop between Moab and Zion are the slot canyons in Escalante: Zebra Slot, Peekaboo Canyon, and Spooky Gulch.

The canyons are stunningly beautiful, and they’re just now starting to become popular to visit. Now is the time to go before the crowds!

Other good things to see on the way from Moab to Zion include the Lower Calf Creek Falls (one of Utah’s nicest waterfalls), the hoodoos at Devils Garden (also in Escalante), and the Utah Highway 12 Scenic Byway near Bryce.

Once you reach Zion National Park, you’ll want to spend a few days doing some of the best hikes in the park, like Observation Point, The Narrows, and Angels Landing.

They are bucket list quality hikes, but if you are looking for easier trails, you will find those in Zion as well, along with exceptional scenery.

Suggested by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy

Southern Colorado Road Trip

Colorado is an amazing state to visit, and one of the best western US road trips takes you to three national parks in Southern Colorado. 

For this Colorado road trip, start in Alamosa and end in Montrose, for about 600 miles of driving.

The best time to do this road trip is early summer or early fall, when the weather is mild.

Eight days allows you to see a good number of the attractions along the route without feeling rushed.  

After you rent a sand sled in Alamosa, spend your first day riding the dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park. 

Drive to Mesa Verde National Park the next day, stopping at Chimney Rock or Canyons of the Ancients National Monument on your way.

Stay at the Farview Lodge in Mesa Verde. It is worth it to see the sunrise and sunset over the park! 

Spend day 3 exploring Mesa Verde. Go on a guided tour to see one of the cliff dwellings up close, drive the Mesa Top Loop to learn about the people that lived here, and take a hike to explore the landscape.  

All aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad on day 4! This train takes you on a scenic ride to Silverton to spend a few hours exploring and back to Durango. 

Next, drive the famous Million Dollar Highway to Montrose. Stop at Silverton for a mine tour and Ouray to soak in the hot springs. 

Spend days 6 and 7 hiking the north and south rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. 

Take a day trip to Colorado National Monument to see the unique rock formations and hike, to end this amazing southern  Colorado road trip . 

Suggested by Caitlin of Twin Family Travels

Route 66 Road Trip: Santa Fe, New Mexico to santa Monica, California

Driving Route 66, known as the Mother Road, is a cherished bucket list item for many travelers. On this western US road trip, you can drive part of the iconic route, through three of the western states: New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

While you can drive it in either direction, it’s fun to end in Santa Monica on the California coast, where you can pose for a photo with the marker that says “end of the trail.”

At about 1,000 miles, this road trip is best done over several days: at least a week, but more is deal, because the route is packed with epic destinations and lots of landmarks.

Any time from late fall to early spring is the best time for this section of Route 66, because quite a bit of the route is through the desert.

In Santa Fe, check out the historic La Fonda on the Plaza Hotel. The historic Route 66 passed quite close to the hotel. Other than the plaza, New Mexico’s capital offers lots of museums and markets.

Explore Albuquerque and Gallup on your way to Arizona. In Albuquerque, don’t miss the Old Town and the Sandia Peak Tramway. Its balloon festival is very popular as well.

Arizona has many miles of the original road still open. Flagstaff is the largest city along the route in Arizona. Don’t miss the Wigwam Hotel in Holbrook, and the many vintage cars along the way.

Route 66 in California runs through the desert in the eastern part of the state. Here you can stop at many ghost towns and iconic attractions like Roy’s Motel and Cafe in Amboy.

Stop at Elmer’s Bottle Ranch, an iconic California roadside attraction, before making your way to San Bernadino, where you can see the other Wigwam Hotel and the very first McDonald’s, now a museum.

Pasadena is a fun stop, with many Route 66 attractions as well as a lively Old Town. Then it’s on to Santa Monica, where you will find the “End of the Trail” sign on the pier.

Suggested by us

Road Trip the Southern California Coast

One of the best road trips in the United States is traveling the Southern California coast, a 220-mile drive that starts in San Diego and ends in Santa Barbara.

Though this region is lovely at all times of the year, a spring, summer, or fall trip is ideal so that you can enjoy the sunshine and beaches.

If you’d like to make a lot of stops, plan at least seven to ten days for this road trip! 

In San Diego , you can spend a few days exploring and checking out the popular attractions, like the San Diego Zoo, Coronado Island, Cabrillo National Monument , Seaport Village, and Balboa Park .

Next, drive up to Temecula, where you can visit some of the best wineries in Temecula , Southern California’s wine country.

After wine tasting, you can drive to Los Angeles, to visit Disneyland in Anaheim, Beverly Hills, or the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Or you can opt for a scenic route along the coastline, stopping at beach cities like Huntington Beach and Long Beach. 

Next, stop in Ojai for some relaxing hiking, olive oil tastings, and spa days in this laid-back town before heading to Santa Barbara.

If you have the time, you can also do a day trip to Channel Islands National Park: ferries run from Ventura or Oxnard.

In Santa Barbara, watch the sunset from Stearns Wharf, check out the wineries and breweries in The Funk Zone, and see famous buildings like the County Courthouse of Santa Barbara! 

Suggested by Brittany of Travel by Brit

New Mexico Road Trip

Starting and ending in Albuquerque, this 550-mile  road trip in New Mexico   is the ultimate American Southwest experience.

To enjoy New Mexico best, plan for 5 to 7 days during spring and fall, when the temperatures are mild, explore the numerous archaeological sites, appreciate the rich culture, and admire the fantastic scenery.

Upon arriving in Albuquerque, the state’s largest city, head to Acoma Pueblo for your first day. A Native American pueblo settled on a mesa top, Acoma Pueblo is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the US.

Spend the second day exploring the ruins of Chaco Canyon, an important cultural center for Ancestral Puebloans during the 10 to 12th centuries. Wander the large complex and picture the life of the Pueblo people.

Head to Taos, known for its historic adobe buildings, on the third day. The surrounding Southern Rocky Mountains make Taos an ideal destination for hiking in the warm months and skiing in winter.

On day four, visit Bandelier National Monument, with its fascinating multi-story cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo.

On the fifth day, explore the Pueblo-style architecture and former 17th-century Spanish colony architecture of Santa Fe, New Mexico’s capital, before returning to Albuquerque.

For further Pueblo cliff dwellings, add a trip to Arizona’s Canyon de Chelly National Monument and the Mesa Verde National Park in southern Colorado, and turn the 5-day itinerary into a 7-day road trip. 

Suggested by Patricia of Ze Wandering Frogs

Road Trip to Grand Canyon and Page, Arizona, from Las Vegas

Visit the jaw-dropping Grand Canyon and check out the natural wonders in Page on this 740-mile road trip that starts and ends in Las Vegas .

The best time of year to do this road trip is fall through spring, when outside temperatures are pleasant during the day.

Plan on about 6-7 days for the best experience: there’s a lot to see and do!

Just an hour south of the Las Vegas Strip lies the Hoover Dam. This man-made wonder is a feat of modern engineering.

You can either choose the free experience of parking at one of the open lots next to the top of the dam, or you can pay to park in the garage and enjoy the paid indoor tour. 

The Hoover Dam is a great stop on your way to the Grand Canyon, one of the main highlights of the road trip.

While you can stay overnight in nearby Flagstaff, it’s a better experience to stay at one of the lodges inside Grand Canyon National Park, which allows you to see both sunrise and sunset over the canyon.

For the best experience of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, plan to spend two nights in the park. Do the scenic drives along the rim, hike, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Your next stop is a  hike in Antelope Canyon  in Page, Arizona. All visitors here have to pre-book a guided tour with an approved tour company.

Also worth seeing in Page are Horseshoe Bend State Park and Lake Mead. Horseshoe Bend is an amazing viewpoint, where the Colorado River forms a picture-perfect horseshoe.

Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are among the best places to visit in Arizona .

Plan to spend two nights in Page to experience all the sights.

On your way back toward Las Vegas, stop at Zion National Park. You can drive through it during the low season (December through February) or take the tour buses between sightseeing stops.

In order to see at least most of the park by vehicle, plan to spend one night in the town of Springdale.

Just an hour outside Vegas, stop at Valley of Fire State Park to experience the magnificent red rock formations. You can simply do the scenic drive through the park, or get out and explore on foot.

Suggested by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

Road Trip from Los Angeles to Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks, California

A 6-day adventure from Los Angeles to two of the country’s top national parks, a Sequoia and Yosemite road trip combines wide open roads with beautiful views, natural scenery (some of the best in the world!), and abundant wildlife.

The best time to do this road trip tends to be between May and September, when the weather is warm, and roads are not snowed in.

To get the most out of your trip, plan for at least 6-7 days, spending three days in each national park. 

Sequoia and Yosemite lodging are plentiful and diverse so you have your pick of hotels, campgrounds, and everything in between when it comes to accommodation.

For the most scenic route from Los Angeles to Sequoia National Park, take the I-5 North to Wheeler Ridge, where you’ll take the Golden State Highway (CA-99).

After Bakersfield, turn right on CA-65 until you reach the General’s Highway into the national park. This drive is 204 miles and takes about 3.5 hours.

Some attractions to see along the way include Angeles National Forest, Fort Tejon Historic Site, Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, Zalud House, and Slick Rock Recreation Area.

Once in Sequoia, be sure not to miss the General Sherman Tree, the Giant Forest Museum, and Moro Rock.

Yosemite is about 200 miles from Sequoia and the drive takes about four hours.

Be sure to stop in Fresno and check out area attractions such as Forestiere Underground Gardens and the Fresno County Blossom Trail in season. Wild Water Adventure Park is also great if you’re traveling with kids.

And of course, once you reach Yosemite, you’ll want to visit the top attractions in the park, like Yosemite Falls, Tunnel View, Glacier Point, and El Capitan Meadow.

The Mist Trail is a must-hike to enjoy Vernal and Nevada Falls, and you can drive Tioga Park Road if you visit when it is open.

Suggested by Jenna of Up and Away

Southern Idaho Road Trip

If you’re looking for a great less-touristy road trip in the Western USA,   head over to Southern Idaho .

With 8 days, you’ll start in Boise, the capital and the most populous city in Idaho, and you’ll end in Idaho Falls, for a total of 321 miles.

The best time for this road trip is between late spring and fall, for warmer weather and abundant sunshine.

Plan on 2 days in Boise, where you’ll want to wander downtown, do some paddleboarding (or kayaking) at Esther Simplot Park, hike the Old Oregon Trail, and visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary.

Then, drive southeast to Thousand Springs State Park. Make sure to stop at Malad Gorge Unit and the Ritter Island Unit. Take your time to do some hikes and see the waterfalls.

At the end of the day, stop at Banbury Hot Springs to soak in the natural hot springs. You can stay there overnight.

Next, head to Twin Falls, where you can admire the Shoshone Falls and the Perrine Coulee Falls, walk under the Perrine Memorial Bridge, and relax at the Centennial Park. Plan on staying 2 days in Twin Falls.

On the next day, drive north to Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve. Stop at Idaho’s Mammoth Cave and Shoshone Ice Cave on your way. You can stay for a day or two to explore the Craters of the Moon.

The next day, arrive in Idaho Falls. Walk along the river and admire the waterfalls.

If you still have time, you can drive south to visit Lava Hot Springs, Soda Springs, and Bear Lake (at the border of Utah) before returning to Idaho Falls to end your trip.

Suggested by Emilie of Love Life Abroad

Road Trip from Crater Lake, Oregon, to Seattle, Washington

This road trip begins in Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, and ends in Seattle, Washington, for a total driving distance oif 568 miles.  

Plan for 4+ days, depending on how many stops you plan to make and how many sights you plan to see.

The best time of year for this road trip is July through September, to ensure all roads are fully open. 

Crater Lake is an ideal place to take in nature and fully explore the outdoors.  You will have out-of-this-world views when hiking up the side of the crater.  

Swimming is another favorite pastime, located off the Cleetwood Cove Trail. The crystal blue waters are remarkable against the dramatic backdrop.

From Crater Lake National Park, take US Route 97 headed north to Leavenworth, Washington.  

Along the way you will get gorgeous views of the Columbia River from Maryhill State Park. Also, slightly further north on this stretch of road you will notice the beautiful wind turbines in the distance.

Leavenworth is a unique Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains. While here, you must take a stroll down Front Street to fully appreciate this colorful city. 

Leavenworth is also widely known for having the world’s largest Nutcracker Museum, which holds over 7,000 varieties of nutcrackers.

Heading on I-90W, take a short detour about 40 minutes outside of downtown Seattle. Here you will see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Washington.  

Snoqualmie Falls is free of charge to visit, and is easily accessible with viewing platforms. There is also a Railway Community Park nearby in Snoqualmie with a historic train depot. This worthy detour you will find to be one of the trip highlights.

Seattle has so many fun things to do! While here, enjoy the Emerald City by visiting famous landmarks such as Pike’s Place Market and the Space Needle.

If you like marine life, don’t miss the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and watch the salmon swim upstream. 

To fully appreciate Seattle, plan for two days at a minimum.

Have time to extend your vacation? Continue your road trip to Port Angeles Washington just outside of Seattle, and take a ferry to beautiful Victoria in British Columbia .

Suggested by Erin of Erin’s Travel Tips

Montana: Billings to Glacier National Park Road Trip

Montana has a plethora of beautiful city and natural sites to visit, although the distances between places can be long.

You’ll need a minimum of 6 days for this Montana road trip, with at least 4 days on the road between Billings and Whitefish and 2 days in Glacier National Park.

However, to do it right, you should extend, with at least 6 days on the road and 4 or more days in Glacier. You could easily spend a week in Glacier National Park if you have the time!

Given the large distances in Montana, the trip will cover approximately 600 miles and take at least 10 hours of on-road time.

The best months for this road trip tend to be July to early October, when the Going to the Sun road in Glacier NP is open.

Outside these months, you’ll be limited in where you can drive in Glacier, but you can hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe your way into many park areas. 

Starting this trip in Billings, take a quick trip outside the city to visit the National Monument commemorating the battle of Little Bighorn and pay your respects to the US and Native warriors who fell here so many years ago.

After your visit, set off east from here along I-90, taking in the massive cattle ranches en route.

Make a stop at Pompey’s Pillar National Monument to view the signature of William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame) on the sandstone pillar. The pillar also features lots of petroglyphs.

Spend the night in Bozeman and enjoy the restaurants and old western feel of the town. Be sure to check out the Museum of the Rockies for its incredible dinosaur exhibit (famous as a scene from Jurassic Park) before heading towards Butte, Montana.

In Butte, discover its copper mining history and explore its historic buildings and museums. You can even dine at the oldest continuously operating Chinese Restaurant in the US, Pekin Noodle Parlor.

The following morning, head north towards  Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site , a working cattle ranch operated by the National Park Service. After your visit, continue to Missoula to dine, explore, and spend the night.

After you leave Missoula, head north towards Flathead Lake. If you have time, you can do the scenic drive through the National Bison Range.

Regardless, be sure to stop or look east at the beautiful Mission Mountains on your way. Make your way to Whitefish by evening. Be sure to check out downtown Whitefish and grab a sandwich at the Wich Haus.

If you are here in the summer, you’ll want to wake early to explore Glacier National Park.

Several days can easily be spent wandering the trails in the park. Drive the Going to the Sun Road!

Book a stay at one of the lodges or campsites in the park: lodging fills up months in advance, so plan ahead.

Suggested by Anwar of Beyond my Door

Road Trip from San Francisco to Crescent City, California

From coastal redwoods to wine country and dramatic beach cliffs, it doesn’t get much more breathtakingly diverse than road-tripping from San Francisco to Crescent City.

Direct, the journey can take just 6.5 hours over 355 miles on Highway 101. However, this  Northern California scenic drive  is about 450 miles with the detours outlined here.

Spread the journey over at least 5 days to fully appreciate all the small towns, trails, and beaches along the way.

Setting off from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, explore the incredible Muir Woods National Monument before taking the coastal Highway 1.

Many dramatic twists and turns later will take you to Point Reyes. Point Reyes is worthy of a good day or two of exploration, from the scenic lighthouse walk (if it’s open and not shrouded in fog!) to the calm inlet of Tomales Bay. 

You can stick along Highway 1 for the full Northern California experience. However, this is where you should head inland for a couple of days to experience the best Napa and Sonoma wine counties have to offer.

Advance bookings are required at many wineries for tastings, but there’s plenty to stop, see, and taste along the way besides wine. Take the Silverado Trail or some of the lesser-used back roads for the complete and picturesque wine country experience. 

Ready for some more curvy mountain roads? The northern Pacific Coast Range makes for some dramatic driving.

Take a cut through the Hendy Woods Scenic Drive, and you’ll hit the rugged but exceptionally beautiful Mendocino Coast.

Visit the famous Fort Bragg Glass Beach (if there’s any glass left!) and enjoy the dramatic coastal cliffs before descending back to Leggett and the junction of the northern end of Highway 1. 

Next up are the Redwoods National and State Parks, covering a vast area of northern California.

Your journey really starts once you hit the Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Make sure you turn off the 101 to experience the Avenue of the Giants scenic drive.

Many visitors choose to break up their journey with a stop in Eureka before continuing the dramatic journey through to Crescent City.

Highway 101 essentially runs through the redwood forests, so you can see plenty by car, but do get out and explore some of the trails.

The drive can be done at any time of year but do look out for wildfires in the summer that may lead to route closures and possible landslides in the winter.

Fog can also wreak havoc with the pretty coastal views in summer, and you’ll, of course, hit summer vacation traffic in July and August, making the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall the best time for this drive.  

Suggested by Keri of Family Road Trip

Colorado Road Trip Through Rocky Mountain National Park

This epic Colorado road trip covers some of the most popular destinations in the state on a loop starting and ending in Denver.

Discover beautiful mountain scenery and enjoy Colorado’s best cities on this road trip, for which you should ideally allow 7-10 days. On a 10-day trip, you can spend three days exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.

The trip is 383 miles total, and is best done in the very late spring, summer, or fall, when Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park is open.

Start your trip by discovering Denver, Colorado’s capital and one of the top places to visit in Colorado . Visit the art museum and botanic gardens, and stroll LoDo: Downtown Denver is home to several dozen shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

In nearby Morrison, be sure to visit the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Even better, take in a show or concert in the theatre for an unforgettable experience.

Explore Boulder, a lively university town with a walkable downtown, before heading to Estes Park, the eastern entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Spend at least a couple of days exploring charming Estes Park and the magnificent mountain scenery in the park. Enjoy hiking or biking, view the beautiful lakes, look for moose, and admire wildflowers or fall colors in season.

Drive Trail Ridge Road to Grand Lake on your way to the charming mountain town of Breckenridge. in “Breck,” stroll the historic district: its main street is adorable. Explore hiking trails or go for drives to take in the views.

If you have the time, do a side trip to Vail, arguably Colorado’s most famous ski resort. It’s beautiful in any season!

Then drive southeast to Colorado Springs, where you can drive to the top of Pike’s Peak for panoramic views, and explore picturesque Garden of the Gods Park before returning to Denver to complete the loop.

Best of Oregon Loop

Starting in Portland or Salem, you can easily visit the impressive range of Oregon’s diverse terrain in a short time. 

This loop covers a distance of 530 miles.

You’ll want to spend a minimum of 3 days on this beautiful road trip, though the trip is best enjoyed over a full week or more.

For the best road tripping weather in Oregon, aim for June through September. 

First, be sure to enjoy the restaurants and sights in Oregon’s largest and most popular city: Portland. The city is famous for its many gardens and museums.

Next, head east on I-84 through the impressive Colombia River Gorge and its many waterfalls to the trendy windsurfing town of Hood River. 

Stop by local apple farms as you head south through Mt. Hood National Forest and pass numerous mountain peaks on your way to Central Oregon.

After pursuing your favorite outdoor adventure activities around Bend, make your way back over the mountain range to Silver Falls State Park. Here you can see 10 or more waterfalls on one trail – and even walk behind two of the falls! 

Continue back into the  Willamette Valley  and explore Oregon wine country around McMinnville, Oregon. Take your pick of scenic vineyards for wine tasting.

Once you’ve had your fill of pinots and cabernet sauvignons, continue west just one hour to reach the Oregon Coast.

Climb the dunes at Pacific City and when you’re ready, make a stop at the Tillamook Cheese factory on your way back to Portland.

Suggested by Michelle of Intentional Travelers

Highway 395 Road Trip in California

California’s Highway 395, tucked on the eastern side of the Sierra Nevadas, provides beautiful mountain views and dynamic scenery throughout its 344 miles.

This nine-day road trip will take you from Death Valley National Park to Yosemite National Park, with plenty of jaw-dropping vistas along the way.

October is the perfect time to explore this little slice of heaven: Death Valley will be a manageable temperature, Yosemite’s eastern entrance near Highway 395 will still be open (with the heavy snowfall it receives, this entrance is closed for at least half the year), and the eastern Sierra Nevadas will be covered with beautiful autumnal foliage.

Start in Death Valley National Park , spending three days on experiencing iconic sights like Zabriskie Point, a unique rock formation amongst swirling badlands, or Badwater Basin, with salt flats that stretch out over 200 square miles.

Next on your trip is the Alabama Hills, a striking landscape of enormous monzogranite boulders, sitting at the foot of the towering Sierra Nevadas (including the tallest mountain in the lower contiguous United States, Mount Whitney!).

After a day of outdoor adventures here, you’re ready to move on to a couple of days in Mammoth Lakes, a charming ski town with easy access to the mountains and several amazing natural hot springs.

To cap off your trip, drive through the Tioga Pass entrance of Yosemite National Park to enjoy three days of exploring some of the most dramatic scenery in the United States, including the granite behemoth El Capitan or Yosemite Falls.

Suggested by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Eastern Oregon Road Trip

An  Eastern Oregon road trip  is perfect for desert lovers who live in the Pacific Northwest, but don’t want to travel too far away!

You’ll start and end in Bend, Oregon, for a 400-mile loop.

Plan on 3-5 days for this road trip. The best time to visit is early summer or early fall.

Eastern Oregon is considered a high desert climate, with tons of examples of volcanic activity, curious rock formations, wild prairie land, and wildlife.

Some of the most iconic stops on this route include Tumalo Falls and Smith Rock (Bend), The Painted Hills, Crane Hot Springs, and the Newberry National Volcanic Monument.

If you enjoy landscape photography, you will love the colorful Painted Hills, considered one of the “seven wonders of Oregon.” Smith Rock is also on the list.

This trip is ideal for outdoor lovers because, besides outdoor activities, there’s not much else! 

Eastern Oregon is quite serene, making it a perfect getaway spot to avoid more crowded areas of Oregon.

You can easily plan a shortened road trip for a 400-mile loop between Bend, Burns, John Day, and then a return to Bend.

For accommodations, you can find limited Airbnb rentals in smaller towns like Burns, John Day, and Mitchell. Bend will give you the most options for accommodations and hotels.

Or go boondocking on this trip: much of the area is on National Forest and BLM land, where dry camping (camping with no running water or toilets available) is legal. Come prepared with your camping supplies to make the most of your trip!

Suggested by Emily of The Mandagies

Utah’s Mighty 5: One of the Best Western US Road Trips

Utah’s “Mighty 5” makes for a classic western US road trip, one that is on the bucket lists of many outdoor enthusiasts. It includes Utah’s five national parks: Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion.

You can start the itinerary in Salt Lake City and end in Las Vegas, or vice versa.

The road trip is about 900 miles total, and if you enjoy hiking and the outdoors, you should plan on about 10 days.

Late spring or early fall are the ideal times for the Mighty 5 road trip. Winters can get too cold, and summers sweltering hot.

Arches National Park is known for its stunning red rock formations and its natural arches, and is one of the best places to visit in Utah .

Delicate Arch is the most famous arch in the park, well worth the hike. Also don’t miss Double Arch and the Windows.

If you have the time, visit the beautiful Dead Horse Point State Park on a day trip from Moab.

Canyonlands National Park is large and lesser visited. Most people spend their time in the Island in the Sky district, which is close to Moab. If you have the time, the Needles district is also worth visiting.

If you have the time, visit Goblin Valley State Park and Little Wild Horse Canyon, located on the route between Moab and Capitol Reef.

Capitol Reef National Park features gorgeous rock formations and arches, and the drive through the park is the easiest way to take in all the best sights. Hickman Bridge is a must-do hike.

Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its hoodoos. Drive along the rim and stop at the iconic viewpoints: Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point. The Queens Garden and Navajo combination trail is not too long and very picturesque.

Zion National Park contains a couple of the country’s most epic hikes: Angel’s Landing and The Narrows. While these two hikes are considered very challenging, the park also offers shorter and easier hikes.

Northcentral Arizona: Road Trip from Phoenix to Page, AZ

Road tripping through the spine of Arizona offers a little bit of everything: marvelous red rock mountains, ancient cliff dwellings, Navajo culture, and sparkling waters flowing through slot canyons. 

This road trip from Phoenix to Page and back to Phoenix is 720 miles total. Plan on at least 7 days for the best experience.

Spring and fall are the best times to embark on this road trip adventure. Summers are brutal in the south, and winters are cold in the north.

Phoenix is the most accessible starting point for those flying in. After touring America’s fifth-largest city, head north towards Sedona, stopping at Montezuma Castle National Monument en route to marvel at ancient cliff dwellings. 

You can easily spend days in Sedona, hiking through endless trails featuring jaw-dropping scenery, shopping at Tlaquepaque Village, and seeing the sunset at Airport Mesa. 

Continue north towards Page, detouring for Grand Falls, a 181-foot muddy waterfall in the middle of the desert. This seasonal attraction is best viewed in spring or after heavy rains.

Adventures in Page, Arizona  are abundant! Experience Navajo culture in the vast beauty of Arizona’s nature.

Get the million-dollar photo shot of Antelope Canyon, kayak Lake Powell to discover hidden slot canyons, and soak in views of Horseshoe Bend and Glen Canyon Dam. 

Detour at the town of Cameron to drive the entirety of Grand Canyon National Park, one of America’s most iconic natural landmarks.

Now it’s time to head back to Phoenix. If you have an extra day, tack on Saguaro National Park near Tucson, just two hours south of Phoenix.  

Suggested by Catherine of Nomadicated

Las Vegas to Denver Road Trip

A   Las Vegas to Denver road trip  provides ever changing views across four states, plenty of hiking opportunities, and two bustling cities to explore.

The entire journey can be completed in as little as a week, but allowing 10 days will mean more time to explore at each location.

For the best weather and low crowds, aim for an early May departure.

Begin your 930-mile road trip with a day in exciting Las Vegas , discovering the many themed hotels and the Bellagio fountains on the Strip .

Next, head into Arizona, where you’ll be able to ride on the iconic Route 66 to Flagstaff.

From there, head north to the Grand Canyon’s south entrance to see one of the most awe-inspiring natural landmarks in the United States.

The next stop is Monument Valley, on the border of Arizona and Utah: the spires and buttes here have been featured in many movies including John Ford’s westerns and Forrest Gump.

Continue north to Moab, Utah, where you’ll explore two more national parks, the sprawling Canyonlands National Park and the popular Arches National Park.

Pause for a day in Grand Junction, Colorado, to visit the Dinosaur Journey Museum and the Colorado National Monument, before taking the scenic I-70 towards Denver.

Stop for a visit at Red Rocks Park in Morrison, Colorado, before cruising into Denver, where museums, shopping, and dining await.

Suggested by Natalie of Cosmos Mariners

Arizona: Grand Canyon to Sedona Road Trip

A great road trip in the western US is from the Grand Canyon to Sedona.

The drive from the Grand Canyon to Sedona is about 120 miles. Fall and spring are the best times for this road trip, to avoid the warm summer temperatures.

This road trip can be done in as few as three days, but if you would like more time for hiking in either location, you can spend five days or more.

At the Grand Canyon, you should start your day at the Visitor Center. Here, rangers will have helpful information about current conditions and the best hiking trails for your group.

There are also exhibits here with information about the Grand Canyon’s wildlife and geology. You can also access some of the beautiful viewpoints and the Rim Trail from the Visitor’s Center.

If you’re looking for an adventurous day at the Grand Canyon, you can bike the Hermit’s Rest Road, go on a mule ride down into the canyon, or take a helicopter ride over the canyon.

As you make your way to Sedona, stop at Bearizona Wildlife Park, visit the historic district in downtown Flagstaff, and explore the Tuzigoot National Monument.

In Sedona, there is a really fun downtown area as well as miles and miles of trails to explore. The  hiking trails in Sedona  are the highlight of this area. The beautiful red rocks, vortexes, and caves make Sedona an incredible place to spend time hiking.

Some of the most popular hikes in Sedona are Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Devil’s Bridge, Airport Mesa, and Soldier’s Pass.

Suggested by Candice of CS Ginger

More American West Travel Inspiration

• The Great National Parks of the West
• The Best West Coast Weekend Getaways
• Must-Do Day Trips from Las Vegas
• National Parks to Visit from Vegas

MORE US TRAVEL INSPIRATION

Looking to explore the eastern part of the country? Check out our round of the best East Coast road trips to take, from the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Florida Keys and New England.

We also have a round-up of the most iconic USA road trips : you have to take these in your lifetime!

Want to get away for short breaks on the east coast? We’ve compiled a list of the most exciting  East Coast weekend getaways  from which to pick your next escape.

Love the vibrancy of US cities? Check out our article on the  best USA weekend trips . From NYC and Boston to New Orleans, San Diego, and  Las Vegas , you’ll find excellent options for your next city break.

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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Best RV Road Trips: 9 Top Routes Around the USA

I’ve been to all 50 states, 49 of them in an RV. There are beautiful places to explore all around the United States, but there are some great places that surpass the rest.

The type of routes that make you feel like you’ve won the life lottery. The ones that make you ask, “Is this even real life?!” 

Whether you’re a full-time RVer or planning a family vacation for the summer, you may be feeling overwhelmed at the options of where to go next and wondering which roads are the best and most scenic to enjoy through RV travel.  

After over 50,000 miles behind the wheel and exploring every corner of this country, I’ve compiled the best RV road trips for you to explore!

Length of Route: Approximately 1,650 miles from Seattle, Washington to Los Angeles, California Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Summer/Fall

Imagine cruising down the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California, with practically perfect moderate temperatures year-round. There’s no need for AC, just roll the windows down and inhale that salty ocean breeze.

Welcome to the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the best road trips in North America.

To be fair, this route can be as beautiful as it is challenging to drive, depending on the size of your RV. There are many sections along the PCH that are not big rig friendly. 

While the weather is moderate compared to other parts of the country, you can expect some freezing temperatures in the winter or even early spring in some parts of the Pacific Northwest along the route. 

Most folks are surprised to learn that the summer months are actually one of the least desirable times to visit California due to what the locals call ‘May Gray’ or ‘June Gloom’.

The marine layer tends to be thick and chilly, making the roads more dangerous to drive and less scenic.

PCH Must-See Sites

• Olympic National Park, WA
• Cape Disappointment State Park, WA
• Cannon Beach, OR
• Natural Bridges, OR
• Trees of Mystery, CA
• Redwood National Park & State Park, CA
• Fort Bragg, CA
• Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
• Big Sur, CA 
• Pismo Beach, CA
• Santa Monica Pier, CA

PRO TIP: Drive the route from North to South for the most spectacular views.

Length of Route: Approximately 125 miles from Fernandina Beach to Daytona Beach (continue on Highway 1 to Key West, 540 miles) Best Time of Year to Go: Winter

There’s really nothing like RVing in Florida during the winter. While folks shovel snow up north, you’re walking barefoot on the beach or soaking in the historical sites along Florida’s east coast. 

This route includes the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway (72 miles), as well as surrounding must-see cities and sites.

A1A and Coastal Florida Must-See Sites

• Fernandina Beach
• Little Talbot Island State Park
• Guana Tolomato Matanzas 
• Saint Augustine
• Fort Matanzas National Monument
• Daytona Beach

BONUS: Continue south on Highway 1 across the famous Seven Mile Bridge to the Florida Keys and end your journey in Key West (#8). Be sure to sightsee in Miami (#7), and kayak in Crystal River to see the manatees!

3. blue ridge parkway.

Length of Route:  Approximately 450 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Shenandoah National Park Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

Known as America’s favorite drive, this road trip belongs on the bucket list of every RVer. But like many scenic parkways, there are windy curves, mountains to traverse, and tunnels to go through.

It’s crucial to know your rig’s height and not to push your tow vehicle’s limits over the passes of Tennessee, North Carolina, and Virginia.  

Blue Ridge Parkway Must-See Sites

• Gatlinburg, TN
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Asheville, NC
• The Blowing Rock, NC
• Roanoke, VA
• Skyline Drive/Shenandoah National Park

4. The Grand Circle of National Parks

Length of Route: Approximately 1,370 miles roundtrip Best Time of Year to Go: Spring

You may have heard of the Utah 5, but did you know you can easily expand that itinerary to include parks in Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona? 

This is one of the best RV road trip routes for the National Park geeks.

Must-See Sites

• Zion National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Arches National Park
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Telluride, CO
• Mesa Verde National Park
• Shiprock, NM
• Petrified Forest National Park
• Grand Canyon National Park
• Lake Powell

5. National Parks of the Northwest

Length of Route: 476 miles from Jackson, Wyoming to West Glacier, Montana Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

Pack up the kids and get them away from the screens. I guarantee the views out the windows of this route will be better than any new TikTok trend. 

This route involves a bit more planning to time it out just perfectly. You want to avoid the peak season summer crowds at Yellowstone but not arrive too late to Glacier National Park to drive the Going to the Sun Road . I would say late summer or early fall will be your best bet for this trip. 

Northwest Parks Must-See Sites

• Jackson, WY
• Grand Teton National Park
• Yellowstone National Park including: Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone Canyon, Grand Prismatic Spring
• Bozeman, MT
• Glacier National Park

6. Tour of New England

Length of Route: 761 miles from Newport, Rhode Island to Burlington, Vermont Best Time of Year to Go: Fall

The only downfall of traveling this route is you’ll have a hard time keeping it on the road when you want to be sightseeing around every corner.

While the West gets a lot of credit for epic road trips, the beauty of the Northeast is often underrated for its road trip potential.

• The Cliff Walk Newport, RI
• Cape Cod National Seashore
• Boston, MA 
• Portland, ME
• Acadia National Park
• White Mountains, NH
• Green Mountains, VT
• Burlington, VT

7. The California Loop

Length of Route: Approximately 2,200 miles from Sacramento, California roundtrip Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Summer

Being born and raised in California, I can honestly say you could spend an entire lifetime exploring the Golden State and not be able to see and do it all, but the California Loop hits the highlights.

This scenic route could take you a couple of weeks or a few months to complete!

• Yosemite National Park
• Sequoia National Park/Kings Canyon National Park
• Eastern Sierras
• Death Valley National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Palm Springs
• Los Angeles
• Santa Barbara – side trip to Channel Islands National Park
• San Francisco
• Napa Valley

8. Arizona Road Trip

Length of Route: Approximately 1,300 miles roundtrip from Tucson Best Time of Year to Go: Spring/Winter

Join the snowbirds and take a tour of Arizona. Like the California Loop, this Arizona road trip hits a lot of the popular destinations while taking you from South to North, East to West, and back. 

• Saguaro National Park
• Kartchner Caverns
• Casa Grande National Monument
• Montezuma Castle National Monument
• Meteor Crater Natural Landmark
• Winslow – don’t forget to stand on the corner! 
• Monument Valley
• Antelope Canyon
• Organ Pipe National Monument

I may have saved my personal favorite of the best RV trips for last because nothing says ‘road trip’ more than this next one.

9. Route 66

Length of Route: 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California Best Time of Year to Go: Summer/Fall

The Mother Road. The ultimate All-American road trip, Route 66. When you think of a nostalgic road trip driving off into the Western sunset, you probably imagine a scenic drive along Route 66. 

While most of the original road has been surpassed by I-40, you can still step back in time along a surprisingly 85% preserved original route that starts in downtown Chicago and ends at the famous Santa Monica Pier in Southern California.

FUN FACT: Oklahoma has the most drivable miles of Route 66 than any other state. 

The original Route 66 road is RV friendly, although it can sometimes be a bit bumpy and riddled with potholes. But I think that adds to the nostalgia of it, and forces you to slow down and soak it all in.

Route 66 Must-See Sites

• Chicago, IL
• Springfield, IL – Abraham Lincoln Historical Sights
• The Route 66 Museum and Welcome Center in Litchfield, IL
• Henry’s Rabbit Ranch, IL
• Saint Louis Arch, MO
• Meramec Caverns, MO
• Galena, KS – Inspiration for the Disney Pixar film Cars
• The Blue Whale – Catoosa, OK
• Oklahoma Route 66 Museum
• The Midpoint Cafe & Sign – Adrian, TX 
• Cadillac Ranch – Amarillo, TX
• The neon lights of Tucumcari, NM
• Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Delgadillo’s Snowcap – Seligman, AZ
• The ghost town of Oatman, AZ (*note – the original route is a windy and narrow mountain road, so proceed with caution).
• The End of Route 66 at the Santa Monica Pier, CA

You could spend a week or a month soaking in all of the sites of Route 66. There’s no wonder it’s one of the best RV road trips. My best piece of advice is to take your time to see it all.

Go slow, read the signs, take touristy pictures, talk to the locals, and support the businesses that are still serving the small towns along the route. Go back to a simpler time along the Mother Road.

Best RV Road Trips for Beginners

There are countless popular destinations and beautiful scenery to be seen all around the United States, but the above road trips are a great way to get you on the open road!

If you’re a beginner RVer, remember to slow down and take your time planning. Also, try to avoid a strict schedule. This is the best way to have a pleasant trip and ensure you aren’t overwhelmed with the logistics and unpredictability of RV life.

Instead, you’ll be sure to fully enjoy the places you see and make tons of priceless memories on some of the best roads in the US.

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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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5 Great RV Road Trip Routes in the United States

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

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

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

California loop

Distance: 2,226 miles

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

A. Anza-Borrego State Park

B. Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland State Park.

C. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

D. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

E. Point Reyes.

F. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

G. Klamath National Forest.

H. Shasta National Forest.

I. Lake Tahoe.

J. Grover Hot Springs.

K. Yosemite National Park.

L. John Muir Wilderness.

M. Death Valley.

N. Joshua Tree National Park.

Rocky Mountains

Distance: 2,826 miles

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

A. Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho.

B. Craters of the Moon Monument, Idaho.

C. National Elk Refuge, Wyo.

D. Grand Teton National Park, Wyo.

E. Yellowstone National Park, Mont.

F. Glacier National Park, Mont.

G. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, Mont.

H. Devil's Tower National Monument, Wyo.

I. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colo.

J. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colo.

K. Mesa Verde National Park, Colo.

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

Distance: 2,332 miles

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

A. Chicago, Ill.

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

C. Lincoln's Tomb, Ill.

D. St. Louis, Mo.

E. Mark Twain National Forest, Mo.

F. Galena Mining and Historical Museum, Kan.

G. Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum, Okla.

H. Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, Okla.

I. Palo Duro State Park, Texas

J. Cadillac Ranch, Texas

K. Route 66 Auto Museum, N.M.

L. Red Rock State Park, N.M.

M. Petrified Forest National Park, Ariz.

N. Meteor Crater, Ariz.

O. The Grand Canyon, Ariz.

P. Los Angeles, Calif.

New England loop

Distance: 1,515 miles

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

A. Adirondack State Park, N.Y.

B. Green Mountain National Forest, Vt.

C. White Mountain National Forest, N.H.

D. Allagash Wilderness Waterway State Park, Maine

E. Acadia National Park, Maine

F. Minute Man National Historic Park, Mass.

G. Salem, Mass.

H. Boston, Mass.

I. Cape Cod, Mass.

J. Jamestown, R.I.

K. Fort Adams State Park, R.I.

L. Mystic Seaport, Conn.

M. Hammonasset State Park, Conn.

N. Fort Hale Park, Conn.

O. Ferris Lake, N.Y.

Distance: 5,776 miles

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

A. Savannah, Ga.

B. Ocala National Forest, Fla.

C. Big Cypress National Preserve, Fla.

D. Everglades National Park, Fla.

E. Apalachicola National Forest, Fla.

F. Blackwater River State Park, Fla.

G. De Soto National Forest, Fla.

H. New Orleans, La.

I. Kisatchie National Forest, La.

J. Houston, Texas

K. Sam Houston National Forest, Texas

L. Ouachita National Forest, Ark.

M. Ozark National Forest, Ark.

N. Memphis, Tenn.

O. Nashville, Tenn.

P. Cherokee National Forest, Tenn.

Q. Chattahoochee National Forest, Ga.

R. George Washington National Forest, Va.

S. Virginia Beach, Va.

T. Myrtle Beach, S.C.

U. Hilton Head, S.C.

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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!

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Your Guide to the Best U.S. RV Road Trips

Last updated Aug 15, 2024

There’s no better way to explore the U.S. than embarking on a cross-country RV trip! Whether you want to see the Rocky Mountains or drive along the historic Route 66, we have the perfect road trip options for you. Check out the six best U.S. RV road trips below!

California Road Trip

Gulf coast road trip, new england road trip, pacific northwest road trip, rocky mountain road trip, route 66 road trip.

• Total Distance: ~820 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: 16.5 hours
• Locations: Anaheim, Los Angeles, Sequoia National Park, Yosemite National Park, San Jose, Monterey, Big Sur

California has major cities, beautiful beaches, and impressive national parks. Whether you’re cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) or making pit stops at must-see beaches and mountain ranges, embarking on a California RV trip affords plenty of unique opportunities to discover all The Golden State has to offer.

Anaheim, CA

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From theme parks to regional parks, there’s so much to see and do in eclectic Anaheim . Enjoy quick access to major attractions including beaches and theme parks by staying at Anaheim Harbor RV Park . Take a step into “The Happiest Place on Earth”—the original Disneyland —which offers plenty of options for RV parking . Get up close with natural wildlife at regional parks near Anaheim like Santiago Oaks Regional Park , Yorba Regional Park , or Featherly Regional Park . Or spend an evening touring some of Anaheim’s best breweries !

Los Angeles, CA

Get your PCH road trip rolling with a stop in Los Angeles ! Not only is the weather warm year-round, but there are plenty of things to do in L.A. Embrace the nice weather by relaxing on the beach, shopping near the coast, or walking along the Santa Monica Pier at Santa Monica Beach . Be the ultimate tourist and hit up favorites like the Griffith Observatory , Hollywood Sign , and the Hollywood Walk of Fame . And enjoy some delicious Korean BBQ in Koreatown before hitting the road again.

Sequoia National Park

Before making your way further north, RVing in California has to include a trip to the rugged foothills of Sequoia National Park . Named after its massive sequoia trees—including the world’s largest tree, General Sherman —the park serves as a great place for outdoor camping, backpacking, and watching wildlife . Plus, Sequoia National Forest is home to over 1,000 miles of natural trails for you to hike, including Long Meadow Grove’s Trail of 100 Giants !

Yosemite National Park

Visited by over 3.5 million tourists each year, Yosemite National Park is a renowned spot and one of the best places for outdoor enthusiasts going on a West Coast RV road trip. Go horseback riding on stock-use trails, raft down the Merced River, or rock climb the rough cliffs of the Tuolumne Meadows . Or appreciate the park’s biological diversity—including shimmering waterfalls and deep glaciers—by hiking to observation sites like Yosemite Falls or Tunnel View .

San Jose, CA

Go road-tripping in California down to San Jose for vibrant cultural experiences and top attractions! Hike and bike through high-elevation trails featuring deep caverns and towering redwoods at Castle Rock State Park . Appreciate exhibits celebrating Japanese art and culture at the Japanese American Museum of San Jose , or browse the shops and restaurants down at Vietnam Town . Or dare yourself to walk down the haunting hallways of the Winchester Mystery House .

Monterey, CA

If you’re looking for seaside recreation with the bonus of seafood, add Monterey to your RV road trip itinerary. Go sailing, whale watching, or cast your line off the Old Fisherman’s Wharf pier. See marina wildlife up close such as California sea lions, bay ghost shrimp, or apple anemones at Monterey Bay Aquarium . Or pull out a chair for Monterey seafood with Salmon Tacos at Crab House , Calamari Steak at Cafe Fina , or Sandbar Cioppino at Sandbar & Grill .

Big Sur, CA

Gorgeous beaches, lush forests, and rocky cliffs are just a few of the features that make Big Sur special. Go hiking or relax on the sandy shores of Pfeiffer Beach just off the trails of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park —which offers RV-friendly campgrounds. Observe marine life at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary . Experience the Big Sur coastline up close, watch the sunset from the shore, and more at Limekiln State Park . And end your trip by marveling at the McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park .

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• Total Distance: ~1,320 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: 20.5 hours
• Locations: Corpus Christi, Houston, Kisatche National Forest, Biloxi, Panama City Beach, Orlando

It’s hard to imagine an RV road trip that doesn’t include travels along the sunny Gulf Coast. Whether you’re hoping to RV near Disney World or take a dip in the ocean, a Gulf Coast road trip is perfect for a family summer vacation or an adventurous spring break!

Corpus Christi, TX

Trade in the open road for some relaxation time at beaches in Corpus Christi . Windsurf, swim, camp, and explore the lagoon at Padre Island National Seashore . Discover popular attractions and learn about the Navy’s history onboard the USS Lexington . Squeeze in some time with marine life like sandbar sharks, green sea turtles, or Atlantic stingrays at Texas State Aquarium . Or head into town for great Corpus Christi food at Republic of Texas Bar & Grill , Doc’s Seafood & Steaks , or La Playa Mexican Restaurant & Cantina .

Houston, TX

There’s so much to do in Houston , you may want to stay longer just to fit it all in! Visit renowned tourist attractions like the Space Center Houston , Houston Zoo , The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston , and the Battleship Texas Foundation . Soak up some sun at one of the many beaches near Downtown Houston . And don’t forget to hit up amazing Tex-Mex restaurants in Houston like Pappasito’s Cantina , Los Tios , and Armandos .

Kisatchie National Forest

Want to move your motorhome vacation away from the beach? Make your way into Louisiana and spend some time navigating the lush wilderness at Kisatchie National Forest . With plenty of RV-friendly camping areas , park your camper and take a few days to hike, bike, horseback ride, canoe, and more. You can always pop into nearby Alexandria if you need a further change in scenery, too!

Not only can you hit the beach and swim in the warm Gulf of Mexico waters near the city of Biloxi , but there’s plenty to do in town, as well. Learn about the Gulf Coast’s seafaring and seafood history at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum . Test your luck at Beau Rivage Casino . Take in amazing Mississippi views at the landmark Biloxi Lighthouse . And get your hands on some of the best seafood in Biloxi with Cajun specials from The Reef , Taranto’s Crawfish , and Half Shell Oyster House .

Panama City Beach, FL

One of the best summer vacations in Florida, Panama City Beach is perfect for spring breakers and families alike. You can experience waterfront recreation ranging from snorkeling and diving to swimming with dolphins in PCB. Strap into heart-racing thrill rides like The Dragon Wagon, The Vertical Accelerator, or The Cobra at Cobra Adventure Park . See oddities, watch a 7D movie, and find your way out of a mirror maze at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum . Or stay out all night at one of many Panama City Beach dance clubs !

Orlando, FL

Orlando is one of the most RV-friendly cities and a great starting or ending point for your RV vacation! Visitors can spend several days at theme parks alone with fantastic destinations in Orlando like Disney World , Universal Studios , The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , and SeaWorld . Or you can head north to camp, fish, kayak, horseback ride, and more at Ocala National Forest .

• Total Distance: ~730 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: 14.5 hours
• Locations: Bar Harbor, Bristol, Lincoln, Cape Cod, Mystic, Catskill

Looking for the best East Coast RV trips with scenic drives? Add the Northeast Atlantic to your travel itinerary—especially if you plan to travel in autumn! You’ll discover lighthouses, quaint oceanside towns, and tons of Colonial charm by RVing in New England.

Bar Harbor, ME

The small town of Bar Harbor is known for its natural charm and wonderful views! Park your RV at Bar Harbor Campground and spend some time hiking through the mountains and wandering the shoreline at Acadia National Park . Once you’ve hiked, biked, and rock climbed to your heart’s desire, head into town for great Maine seafood like Ahi Tuna Poke from Geddy’s or a Lobster Roll from Thirsty Whale Tavern .

Bristol, ME

The historic villages of Bristol Mills, Chamberlain, New Harbor, Pemaquid, and Round Pond all make up the quiet New England town of Bristol , giving you plenty to see and do! Head to the lighthouse at Pemaquid Point for beautiful views of the Gulf of Maine. Find a spot near the water where you can park your travel trailer at Lake Pemaquid Campground . Or enjoy fresh seafood selections like Oysters, Lobster Chowder, or the Crab Cake Plate at Muscongus Bay Lobster .

Lincoln, NH

Set right in the middle of White Mountain National Forest , you’ll never want to leave Lincoln once you visit. From the scenic views of Kancamagus Highway (also known as NH-112) to walking through the amazing Ice Castles , there’s a little something for everyone in this New Hampshire town. If you want more adventurous activities, go ziplining with Alpine Adventures or spend a weekend skiing and snow tubing at Loon Mountain Resort .

Cape Cod, MA

Navigate the stunning Massachusetts coast in your RV and make your way into Cape Cod ! A breathtaking spot to visit, you’ll find a plethora of sandy beaches, golf courses, and seaside diners here. Dip your toes in the water or relax under the sun at Chapin Memorial Beach . Learn about the true tale of the sunken Whydah Gally pirate ship and its treasure at the Whydah Pirate Museum . Or get acquainted with the city by visiting each of Cape Cod’s 14 lighthouses !

Located near the Connecticut-Rhode Island border, the small town of Mystic is filled with history, great views, and good food. Check out the Charles W. Morgan , the last wooden whaleship in the world, located at the Mystic Seaport Museum . Go hiking or bird-watching for Hooded Mergansers and Red-bellied Woodpeckers at the Peace Nature Sanctuary . Try traditional New England seafood like the Crunchy Buttermilk Cod at S&P Oyster Restaurant , or grab delicious slices of Hawaiian and BBQ Chicken Pizza at the film-featured Mystic Pizza .

Catskill, NY

Drive up into Hudson Valley to the city of Catskill , where you can experience all kinds of outdoor recreation. Enjoy boating, picnics, and Hudson River views by stopping at Dutchman’s Landing Park . Make your way across the river to fish, trap, and learn more about upland and wetland habitats at Rogers Island . Or, if you want to spend more time in the mountains, set up at Brookside Campground and head into the valleys of Kaaterskill Wild Forest , where you can see the two-tier Kaaterskill Falls .

• Total Distance: ~950 miles
• Locations: Olympic National Park, Seattle, Portland, Roseburg, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lake Tahoe

The Pacific Northwest’s dense forests and gorgeous streams are not only ideal for van life road trips , but also for RV travelers seeking an outdoorsy road trip. Though you’ll spend a lot of time in national parks and forests from Washington to Northern California, you’ll also get the chance to stop in bigger cities along the way.

Olympic National Park

Just a few hours from Seattle sits Olympic National Park , one of the most beautiful national parks in the Pacific Northwest. With outdoor activities like boating, fishing, climbing, and camping, there’s no shortage of things to do while you’re there. Have a small travel trailer shorter than 21 feet? Set up camp for the night right in the park! If you’re hauling a big rig, hop over to Cove RV Park instead to unhitch your travel trailer.

Seattle, WA

With the views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier , and plenty of RV campgrounds , road trippers will love visiting Seattle . Pick up a coffee from the original Starbucks location . See panoramic views of Downtown Seattle and nearby mountains at the top of the iconic Space Needle . Check out local craft stores, farmers, and buskers, or watch a fish-throwing show at Pike Place Market . And don’t forget to explore eclectic exhibits about science fiction, gaming, film, and more at the Museum of Pop Culture !

Portland, OR

Park your RV and explore all that quirky Portland has to offer! Take a peaceful walk through curated collections of magnolias, peonies, camellias, and more at the Lan Su Chinese Garden . Attend keeper talks and participate in animal activities at the Oregon Zoo . Stop for craft beer at one of Portland’s breweries, such as Zoiglhaus Brewing Company , Culmination Brewing , or Occidental Brewing . And of course, no Pacific Northwest RV trip would be complete without stops at Multnomah Falls and Mt. Hood .

Roseburg, OR

Whether you’re coming from the north or south on your RV road trip, the city of Roseburg is a great place to stop! Not only is this small town set in the scenic Umpqua River Valley , but there’s plenty to keep you busy. Tour vineyards and taste fine Oregon wines at Abacela Winery or Spangler Vineyards . Grab your golf clubs and hit the green at Stewart Park Golf Course . Or take a short drive to go camping, hiking, and kayaking with gorgeous views of crystal clear water at Crater Lake National Park .

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Located in Northern California, make a stop at Lassen Volcanic National Park . Here, you can spend the day hiking more than 150 miles of California trails to see volcanic peaks and mountain meadows—and be sure to stop by the hydrothermal areas while you’re there! Of course, you can go fishing, boating, and skiing in this national park, as well. When you’re done for the night, head back to your campground for some incredible stargazing !

Break out your bathing suit and get to the sparkling waters of Lake Tahoe ! Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, or hiking around the lake. Enjoy camping and boating at Emerald Bay State Park . At night, break out some s’mores for the campfire and sleep under the stars. And if you’re planning a winter RV trip, be sure to hit the ski slopes in Tahoe !

• Total Distance: ~1,040 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: 19.5 hours
• Locations: Sawtooth National Forest, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Medicine Bow National Forest, Rocky Mountain National Park, White River National Forest

If you’re searching for some of the best national park road trips , look no further than the Rockies! Follow the Rocky Mountains from Idaho to Colorado to see some of the most beautiful natural wonders America has to offer.

Sawtooth National Forest

A Rocky Mountain RV trip promises breathtaking views and frequent adventure along the way, and Sawtooth National Forest delivers on both fronts! Here, you can spend the day hiking, horseback riding, watching herds of elk, and more. Once you’ve had your fill of nature, head into Stanley, ID , and explore the charming downtown area. Grab a Buttermilk Flapjack Stack for breakfast or sip on the House Cider at the old-fashioned saloon at Mountain Village Restaurant .

Yellowstone National Park

You could spend weeks weaving through the geologic wonders at Yellowstone National Park ! See the famous geyser Old Faithful , go camping in the backcountry, and catch a glimpse of black bears, moose, and bison. No matter what you choose to do or where you plan to stay, just be sure to make a reservation ahead of time, as Yellowstone RV parks fill up fast.

Grand Teton National Park

Get your fix of hiking among alpine glaciers, boat down the Snake River , go cross-country skiing, and more at Grand Teton National Park ! This wintery getaway is home to over 300 species of birds and 1,000 species of plants, including staggering conifers. If you want to experience even more of the diverse Wyoming landscape after you leave, head west to go camping, hiking, and picnicking in the striking plateaus of Shoshone National Forest .

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests

You’ll be logging lots of time in your RV as you move between spots in Wyoming and Colorado, but you’ll eventually find yourself in the Medicine Bow and Routt National Forests . Spanning across both states, this is a great spot for outdoor activities like mountain biking , ice fishing , snowboarding , and horseback riding . Just be sure to take a break and look out over the Sierra Madre Mountains and Mt. Zirkel Wilderness Area from the nearby Libby Flats Observation Area !

Rocky Mountain National Park

Enjoy the views at 12,000 feet on Trail Ridge Road and remember to look up at the clear skies while exploring Rocky Mountain National Park . This is another stop where you could spend weeks immersed in wilderness, so give your trailer a break and go camping in Colorado for a while! You can also make a quick supply run in Estes Park —and while you’re there, grab a bite to eat at Mountain Home Cafe or try rotating Colorado favorites like Rocky Mountain Trout at The Grubsteak Restaurant .

White River Nation al Forest

White River National Forest is the perfect place to either kick off or end your road trip through the Rockies. Take in the gorgeous views of the mountains, get your fill of fishing , go bird watching, and more! If you want to explore more of the Rocky Mountains, visit nearby Aspen or Breckenridge for some skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.

• Total Distance: ~2,120 miles
• Estimated Drive Time: 32 hours
• Locations: Chicago, Spring
• field, St. Louis, Springfield, Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Tucumcari, Albuquerque, Flagstaff, Grand Canyon National Park, Kingman, Barstow

When you think of hitting the open road with your RV, Route 66 likely comes to mind. This road trip destination is considered the best road trip across the U.S. due to the variety of terrain, attractions, and its place in American pop culture . This ultimate cross-country RV trip takes you from Illinois to Southern California, spanning more than 2,000 miles.

Chicago, IL

The perfect Route 66 RV trip starts out in Chicago —which has enough to keep you busy for a few days! Snap a picture at “The Bean” in Millennium Park . Ride on the Centennial Wheel, Drop Tower, or Wave Swinger at Chi-town’s Navy Pier . Stroll through Downtown Chicago to check out luxury shops and restaurants along The Magnificent Mile . Grab a slice of Chicago deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s . Or sip on a Goose IPA while taking a tour of the brewery and tap room at Goose Island .

Springfield, IL

After arriving in Springfield , you’ll find a variety of family-friendly activities to enjoy. While a Route 66 road trip isn’t well-known for its nature stops, Flower City is full of attractive hiking spots like the Interurban Trail and Wabash Trail . If you packed your bikes, don’t miss out on cycling at Lost Bridge Trail ! And while you’re in Springfield, be sure to pay a visit to historic spots like the Lincoln Tomb and Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum .

St. Louis, MO

Traveling to St. Louis is great for sightseeing on Route 66 thanks to iconic spots like the Gateway Arch ! Discover highway memorabilia, trails, and scenic picnic spots by parking your RV at Route 66 State Park . In the mood for a thrill? Take on rides like American Thunder, Boomerang, and Fireball at Six Flags . Looking for a more peaceful getaway? Immerse yourself in the beautiful Missouri Botanical Garden . Or if you need some refreshments, grab some of your favorite brews while taking a tour of the famous Anheuser-Busch Brewery .

Springfield, MO

That’s right, another Springfield stop—but this time in Missouri! Take a guided ride through underground Ozark caves at Fantastic Caverns . Walk through hostas and daylilies or visit the butterfly house at Springfield Botanical Gardens . Try some Springfield barbecue from great restaurants like City Butcher & Barbecue , Bubba’s BBQ , and Whole Hog Cafe . Or pull over and celebrate the city known as the birthplace of Route 66 at the Route 66 Car Museum .

Oklahoma City, OK

After you hit Missouri, you’ve got to make time to explore Bricktown in Oklahoma City ! This Downtown OKC entertainment district has everything you need—including shopping, dining, and nightlife. Set up camp at Oklahoma City RV parks like Rockwell RV Park , Roadrunner RV Park , or Twin Fountains RV Resort . Then, discover the origins and charm of banjos at the American Banjo Museum . Get acquainted with Wild West culture at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum . And before continuing on Route 66 from Oklahoma City , spend time at top family-friendly attractions like Frontier City and the Oklahoma City Zoo .

Amarillo, TX

Get another stamp on your Route 66 passport when you cruise through the Route 66 Historic District in Amarillo . Make a pit stop to compare camper specs on your motorhome at the Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum . Head to one of the most popular attractions in Amarillo— Cadillac Ranch —for a quick photo op with graffitied Cadillacs. If you want to spend more time in this historic city, stay the night at Route 66 campgrounds at one of the many Amarillo RV parks . Or enjoy a stay in a rustic cabin or go “glamping” at breathtaking Palo Duro Canyon State Park !

Tucumcari, NM

The city of Tucumcari brings you right to the “Heart of the Mother Road.” This entrance point to the desert is full of diners, museums, and 1950s neon sign nostalgia! Learn about the history of Tucumcari at the Tucumcari Historical Museum and Mesalands Dinosaur Museum & Natural Sciences Laboratory . Grab a Roast Beef Dinner, Chicken Teriyaki, or Patty Melt at Del’s Restaurant . Then, spend the night appreciating hand-painted murals and hot showers at Mountain Road RV Park before hitting the road again.

Albuquerque, NM

After arriving in Albuquerque , set up camp and take advantage of dog parks, sand volleyball courts, a swimming pool, and more at the Route 66 RV Resort . Looking for some fun in Albuquerque? Have close encounters with exotic animals at ABQ BioPark , schedule a hot air balloon flight , check out prehistoric drawings on a hike at Petroglyph National Monument , or ride over stunning Albuquerque valleys on New Mexico’s historic Sandia Peak Tramway .

Flagstaff, AZ

Located in the heart of Coconino National Forest , make a stop on your RV adventure at Flagstaff ! In this Arizona city, visitors can keep busy with outdoor recreation while taking in gorgeous views. Take a ranger-led hike to see unique rock formations like Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte , or tour Lava River Cave . View distant stars and galaxies from the world’s first International Dark Sky City at Lowell Observatory . Or make your way into town for craft beers at Flagstaff Brewing Company .

Grand Canyon National Park

Although not technically part of Route 66, you can’t skip out on a trip to Grand Canyon National Park ! Countless cacti, magnificent gorges, hiking and horseback riding, and hundreds of species of birds await you on your Grand Canyon road trip. Take advantage of Grand Canyon hikes and recreational fishing on the Colorado River. If you want to stay the night in the park, consider staying at Mather Campground . Here, you can catch the vibrant sunset and sunrise over the canyon before moving on to your next stop!

Kingman, AZ

Known as the “Heart of Historic Route 66,” the city of Kingman is a classic RV destination. Break out your poodle skirt and indulge in an old-fashioned milkshake at Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner . Looking for a drink with a little more bite? Have a taste of specialty rums like the Gold Miner Dark Rum and Gold Miner Agave Rum while touring Desert Diamond Distillery . Or learn more about the local area by visiting exhibits featuring Northwestern Arizona heritage at the Mohave Museum of History & Arts .

Barstow, CA

California offers infinite RV activities with lots to do along the way—and Barstow is the ideal place to stop if you’re looking for a spot between Arizona and California with great views of the Mojave Desert! Pull off and check out the sand dunes, Joshua trees, and wildflowers, or stay the night at one of the RV-friendly campgrounds at Mojave National Preserve . Or learn about the original “Main Street of America” at Barstow’s Route 66 “Mother Road” Museum .

Need a safe place to store your RV while you’re not traveling these RV routes? Extra Space Storage has self storage facilities throughout the U.S. with secure RV storage options . Find a storage unit near you !

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Get Lost On The Best RV Road Trip Routes In The USA

• Last updated on June 9, 2021

Kurt Spurlock

The memories of my first RV road trip are all positive. I was about 14 years old, school was out for the summer, and dad had just bought a used class A to get some fun family vacations in the books.

There’s just nothing quite like road tripping in an RV. Hitting the road with your big floating fortress, carrying everything you need with you. Using the toilet at 70 mph. You know. RV’ing.

We took our RV down to Florida, and from time to time would take it to races at Road Atlanta or Barber Motorsports Park. Little did I know I had barely seen the tip of the iceberg that is RV road trips in the USA.

The adventures that follow are some of the best the country has to offer. From the breezy beaches of Key West to the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean and everything in-between.

• Florida On Down: US Hwy 1 To Key West
• California Loop Pt. 1: Cruising The Coast
• California Loop Pt. 2: The Inland Experience
• Oregon’s Pacific Coast Byway
• Grand Canyon And Beyond: Southwest Parks Loop
• The Montana Classic RV Road Trip

How To Choose An RV Road Trip Route

Before we break into the routes themselves, let’s get a quick disclaimer out of the way: Most RV owners will need to plan a route out in advance rather than solely rely on GPS to navigate between stops.

That’s because for some of the destinations below (like Glacier National Park), there are strict size and weight restrictions on certain access roads that prohibit larger rigs from entering.

And if I’m being honest, even if certain roads didn’t have restrictions, you still wouldn’t want to drive anything over a smaller class B on them.

Tight, twisting mountain roads, unmaintained forest service roads, and even some railroad crossings can pose a threat to rigs with longer wheelbases and extended rear ends. Don’t be that rube who held up traffic for two hours trying to squeeze a 40-foot rig around a rocky cliff.

Trace your route on a map and read through the vehicle restrictions on the websites of any national parks you’ll visit.

Speaking of parks, you’ll also want to decide whether you’ll be staying in a dedicated RV park or choosing to boondock at each stop.

If you’re not familiar with the concept, boondocking is essentially parking your RV in a wilderness area without any hookups or amenities like showers and restrooms. Basically treating your camper like a big ol’ luxurious tent. Boondocking is a great way to experience nature: Just you, your campmates, and a quiet piece of land well off the beaten path.

Ok enough of that… Let’s hit the road.

1. Florida On Down: US Hwy 1 To Key West

If you’re not familiar with US Highway 1 (a.k.a. The “Overseas Highway”), you’re in for a treat.

Long miles on the interstate can get tedious. Long miles surrounded by emerald green and blue water (broken up by the occasional small island town), could go on forever as far as we’re concerned.

US Hwy 1 begins at the southern tip of Florida and extends (over the ocean) for 113 miles, hopping from island to island starting with Key Largo and running all the way down to your destination, the infamous Key West.

Set up your rig in any one of the local RV parks or campgrounds and get ready to do some exploring. Warm breezes, swaying palm trees, and pastel-colored homes line every street. There’s a ton to see and do, but relax: You’re on island time now.

The Ideal RV Road Trip For…

Anyone in need of a tropical getaway they can access via RV. We recommend planning to stay in Key West for at least a full week to get your fill of frozen drinks and ocean breezes. Add a few extra days if you want to explore the Everglades on your way down or back.

Key Stops Ideas

Hemingway House: It’s the most popular tourist attraction in Key West, and worth dedicating a few hours to for an afternoon tour. Walk around the breezy veranda, get a look into Hemingway’s own writing room, envy his luxurious backyard pool, and spend time with some six-toed cats.

Dry Tortugas National Park: Located roughly 70 miles offshore from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is home to some of the best fishing, snorkeling, and boating opportunities in the country. You’ll need to catch a ride on the Yankee Freedom Ferry to get there (thrill seekers can also charter a seaplane), but once you’ve arrived you’ll have no shortage of things to do.

Anything on a sailboat: No RV road trip to the Florida Keys is complete without spending some amount of time on a sailboat. Whether you charter a snorkeling trip, go fishing, or just want to do some exploring of the surrounding islands, make time to go sailing at least once.

2. California Loop Pt. 1: Cruising The Coast

California is the third-largest state in the country, and happens to have the third-longest coastline as well behind Alaska and Florida.

That means you’ve got 840 miles of sandy beaches, ocean views, and coastal towns to explore before you can say you’ve seen it all.

The beautiful thing about a California coast RV road trip is that you can turn it into whatever you want depending on where you choose to stop.

Want to see the best of California’s famous coastal cities? Start in San Diego and work your way up through the beautiful beaches of Orange County, explore Los Angeles, then motor on up the coast until you hit the Golden Gate Bridge.

Fancy a little more natural beauty and outdoor recreation? The central coast from Ventura up to Monterey is home to some of the most breathtaking views in the world and is packed full of great spots to camp, hike, swim, and paddle in places like Big Sur and El Capitan State Beach.

And, of course, if you’ve got the time or the inclination, you can add another week or two to your trip and connect to the Oregon Coastal loop in the list below.

How much time ya got? I’d give this one at least three weeks if not a full month. A few days in each major city, and five or more in the parks. Reservations will be your main challenge to work around, so this one will definitely take some serious planning ahead of time.

Key Stops Ideas:

Big Sur: Big Sur is hands-down my favorite place in the world. There’s just nothing quite like the elemental beauty of this pristine stretch of California coastline. There are a few different sites you can park an RV, so finding a spot shouldn’t be an issue as long as you make a reservation ahead of time. I’d plan on spending at least five nights here, but you could easily do several weeks and discover something new every day.

San Francisco: It’s crowded, it’s expensive, and its streets aren’t exactly RV-friendly, but exploring San Francisco on foot or with your tow-behind is a must. Prouse the thrift stores in the Haight-Ashbury, eat fresh-caught seafood for lunch in Fisherman’s Wharf, and catch a show at the historic Fillmore concert venue.

Redwood National and State Park: Redwood allows RVs, but limits vehicles to between 24 and 28 feet long depending on which of the three campgrounds you’re considering. Their RV spots don’t have hookups, and will absolutely require a reservation. Still, if you can work a few days in Redwood into your itinerary, few places offer such a direct and rewarding connection to nature, and a chance to glimpse the tallest trees in the world is not to be missed.

3. California Loop Pt. 2: The Inland Experience

California might be most famous for its laid-back coastal charms, but some of its greatest treasures are waiting to be found about 100 miles inland.

This RV road trip is all about linking together some of the countries most unique natural wonders for weeks of exploration that are as scenic as they are varied.

Starting from the otherworldly Joshua Tree National Park, this route skips along from there to the barren beauty of Death Valley National Park. Once you’ve had your fill of the hottest place on the planet, it’s time to move on up to the cooler temperatures and lush vegetation of Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks.

Round out a few weeks of playing in the dirt with the pristine views and creature comforts of Lake Tahoe. Put your feet up at one of the RV resorts on the southern end, or just drive right across the state line into Nevada and spend a few nights at one of the popular casino resorts.

You should spend at least three nights each in every park on this route, and more than that if you’ve got the time. It’s an epic trek, so give yourself at least three weeks to a month on the road to get the most of it.

Joshua Tree National Park: Whether you start or end this National Park parade in Joshua Tree is up to you, but don’t you dare skip it. RV camping in Joshua Tree feels like camping on another planet. The views are quiet and expansive, the boulder-scattered landscape is surreal, and the stars you’ll see above your nightly campfire are like nothing you’ve ever experienced.

Sequoia National Park: Redwoods National Park may have the world’s tallest tree, but Sequoia is home to the biggest . Trust me, pictures of “General Sherman” just don’t it justice. There’s a ton to explore in Sequoia, but honestly just being humbled by standing at the 37-foot-wide base of a 2,500-year-old tree is worth the price of admission.

Yosemite National Park: You could easily spend a month in Yosemite and have barely scratched the surface of all this place has to offer. Endless miles of hiking trails, countless freshwater swimming holes to be discovered, and all the rock-climbing you can stand are just a few of the experiences Yosemite has on offer.

4. Oregon’s Pacific Coast Byway

Didn’t quite get enough epic West Coast views on your way up from California? Why stop there?

This nearly 400-mile stretch of US Hwy 101 snakes along the coast of Oregon, taking short breaks between breathtaking views of coastline and lush farmland to dip into quaint beach and fishing towns you’re sure to love.

The rugged Oregon coast has something for everyone. Watch skilled captains navigate the hectic waters of the Columbia River Bar, spend lazy days on beautiful beaches, or try your hand at guided fly fishing trips.

The Ideal RV Road Trip For…

Oregon’s Pacific Coast Byway is an ideal quick six-day getaway, or a great option to extend trips coming from California or Washington. Plan to stay a night or two at each point of interest, and try to resist the urge to plant permanent roots in Cannon Beach if you’ve got obligations back home.

Cannon Beach: It’s recognized as one of National Geographic’s 21 Best Beaches in the World, and also made their list of “The World’s 100 Most Beautiful Places.” Take in the majesty of Haystack Rock, the colorful biodiversity of the nearby tidepools, or head into town to check out local restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Yaquina Bay: Home to the historic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, this picturesque stretch is famous for its wildlife viewing which includes everything from herds of barking sea lions to seasonal whale watching. 

Port Orford: As the southernmost town on your Oregon RV road trip, Port Orford is the ideal spot to set up camp and unwind for a few days. Do some cycling on the Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway, watch the seals play in Port Orford Heads State Park, or try your hand at fly fishing in one of the town’s several nearby rivers and creeks.

5. Grand Canyon And Beyond: Southwest Parks Loop

Majestic views, epic hikes, and impossible rock formations carved by time over thousands of years are just a few of the experiences you’ll find on this essential RV road trip.

The American Southwest is a unique landscape that is perfect for exploring from your home base on wheels. You’ll love breaking up the buzzing excitement of thousands of tourists with the peaceful highway stretches between each of these world-famous destinations.

This trip starts exploring around Grand Canyon National Park before heading north through the rugged beauty of Kaibab National Forest and up into Zion National Park. Once you’ve gotten all the outdoor recreation you can stand in Zion, you’ll push on through Dixie National Forest, pass over the sweeping canyonlands of Utah, and land in Arches National Park just outside of Moab.

Complete the loop whenever you’re ready by headed back toward the Grand Canyon, following the winding highway through Monticello and taking in all the expansive desert views your heart can stand as you skirt around the Oljato Monument Valley.

I’d give this one at least three weeks. You’ll want to spend a full week around the Grand Canyon, and (depending on how much you like to hike) about the same for Zion. Bryce Canyon is a shorter stop, and personally I could spend a decade in Moab exploring the biking and offroading trails.

Moab: Arches National Park is one of the most popular in the country, so both its camping spots and viewing areas fill up fast, especially over weekends. Consider breaking up your time at Arches by exploring the city of Moab. This is an offroad mecca, and a great place to explore via Jeep, dirtbike, mountain bike, or white water raft!

Hell’s Backbone Road: If you’re in a compact rig like a campervan or a smaller class C, consider mixing up this RV trip with a scenic detour on your way to Arches National Park. Hell’s Backbone is a 35 mile stretch of gravel road that is widely considered the most scenic in the state. Check the weather before you go though. You should only attempt this when the skies are clear and the ground is good and dry.

Sedona: Located just two hours south of Grand Canyon National Park, consider breaking up your time in the area with a night or two in Sedona. The landscape around this city is something you’ve just got to experience for yourself, whether on one of the cities open air tour busses or on foot through hundreds of miles of hiking trails that wind up through the surrounding hills.

6. The Montana Classic RV Road Trip

It’s almost a rite of passage in the RV traveler’s realm:

Linking two of the country’s most iconic and beautiful destinations, both of which happen to be in Montana.

The Montana Classic RV trip begins in what is arguably the most iconic National Park in the world: Yellowstone National Park. The majesty of Yellowstone’s geologic features (Old Faithful Geyser, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone) is rivaled only by the wildlife itself. Grey Wolves, Grizzly Bears, Moose, Bison, and Wolverines are just a few of the species you’ll want to see (but not touch) during your stay in the park.

Just when you think you’ve had your fill of natural beauty, it’s time to get back on the road and head north to Glacier National Park. Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see here, but remember to check the restrictions we mentioned earlier before trying to drive your rig through the park.

If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing like two weeks in pristine National Parks to boost your spirit of adventure, so consider adding a third week to your itinerary and heading on up north to Alberta to take in all that is Banff National Park as well.

368-653 miles

The Perfect RV Road Trip For:

Two-three weeks. These are both massive, beautiful destinations, and you’ll need about a week in each. If you’ve got more time (and a valid U.S. passport) you’ll be too close to the Canadian border to skip driving up into Banff National Park.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Look, Yellowstone National Park is huge. Over 2.2 million acres if you want to get specific. You’re going to want to see everything, and you absolutely should… BUT… If you don’t see anything else, make sure you see this epic series of waterfalls crashing through a glorious canyon. This one puts the Grand Canyon to shame in my book.

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Chances are you won’t be able to drive your RV up this epic mountain pass, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip Going-to-the-Sun Road. Book yourself a guided tour and leave the driving to someone else so you can enjoy the views.

The Icefields Parkway: If you do choose to head up to Alberta, don’t miss the chance to drive along the Icefields Parkway, taking in striking mountain views of the Canadian Rockies jutting up from emerald-green glacial lakes. You’re going to want to pull over more times than you can count, and you absolutely should.

The Bottom Line

The USA is as defined by its diverse cities as it is by its emblematic national and state parks. An RV is the perfect vessel to see it all. Part rugged camper, built for respite in even the wildest places. Part luxury accommodation, filled with as many amenities and modern conveniences as you please.

If adventure is what you seek, we recommend splitting your search between both cities and parks along the way .

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The Best RV Road Trip Routes in the USA

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Mountain Directory: A Guide for Truckers, RV and Motorhome Drivers (affiliate disclosure) This valuable resource provides the locations and descriptions of over 700 mountain passes and steep grades in 22 states. Vital information for anyone driving a large or heavy vehicle.

RVs are a great way for you to enjoy a road trip in the best style possible. The least favorite part of road tripping enthusiasts is sleeping in a tent, on the ground. However, when you are traveling in an RV, you can get the comfort of a small home as you are driving from one spot to the other.

Still, RVs are not like off-road cars. While a good RV can indeed handle some off-the-beaten-track routes, they may not be able to handle any extremes. So, what routes should you take that are RV-friendly? Here are a couple of ideas.

1. Rocky Mountains

The route may go through mountains and craters, but the roads are perfect for RVs. There are many national parks and forests for you to go through, as well as spectacular views of glaciers, canyons, and dunes. It takes you through so many landscapes that you will feel like you are passing from one season to another in just a matter of days.

To go through the Rocky Mountains route, you’ll need at least 8-10 days. However, to fully enjoy the experience, you might want to give it around 12-14 days. Hiking through the Rocky Mountains is highly relaxing, and there are many tourist spots along the way that you might want to enjoy. 

Bear in mind that there are also deserted areas, so you’ll want to have your recovery tools around just in case. This includes winches , traction mats, and whatever you may need. 

2. California Loop

Are you a fan of visiting national parks and camping in the wilderness with your RV? In that case, you might want to give the California Loop a try. For RVers seeking relaxation, this 14-stop loop will take you through multiple states and national forests, lakes, and hot springs.

It can take anything from 10 to 14 days to finish this route – stops and visiting around included. Some stops are worth booking beforehand, such as the Grover Hot Springs. 

If you are a big fan of hot weather, you might stop in Death Valley – also known as Furnace Creek. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated as you are passing through as, at 134°F (57°C), it holds the record for the hottest place on Earth.

3. The Big Sur Coastal Highway

If you are a fan of driving with a view of the beaches, then you might want to consider giving the Big Sur Coastal Highway a try. Going between southern and northern California, this route will give you a gorgeous view of the coast of California. The beaches also allow for camping, if you stop in the right spots. 

The route itself is quite short – and with its 115 km, it will likely take only a couple of hours to continuously drive it. However, if you are road tripping, you will want to take your time for the stops. To fully enjoy this route, you need about two days – which is perfect for a weekend getaway.  

4. Route 66

Route 66 is an American classic and a route that everyone wants to do at least once in their life. The long strip of road is perfect for RVs, and since you will be stopping in numerous towns, you’ll have plenty of places to stock up your vehicle. 

If the only thing you do is drive and sleep, then you can finish route 66 in about 8 days . However, you might want to make a couple of stops around the way, to actually visit. There are countless roadside attractions, diners, and museums along the road – so with this in mind, you might want to take two weeks to fully enjoy this route. 

5. Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are new at overlanding or road tripping in your RV, then you might want to try out the Blue Ridge Parkway. It takes at least a week to do this route, but considering the number of intriguing spots along the way, you might want to take a couple of days extra. 

The infrastructure of the road is highly supportive and easy to drive through, making it perfect for new RV owners. Certain areas can have high traffic during summer days, but you will likely get out of them soon. Considering the number of breathtaking sceneries you’ll come across, the potential trouble is highly worth it. 

6. Southwest Parks Loop

If you have it on your bucket list to see the Grand Canyon at least once in your life, then you might want to try the Southwest Parks Loop. The American Southwest is the perfect place, packed with unique landscapes that you will enjoy. 

Rugged rocky hills and gorgeous national forests followed by the beautiful canyons will leave you awed. You might finish this route in 10 days, but you should take at least two weeks to fully enjoy it. 

The Bottom Line

The United States has a lot to offer to RV owners. You just need to pick the route that you want to go on. And remember, take your time – these routes can be finished fast, but it’s best to enjoy them at a slower pace.

Ferenc Elekes has been a devout overlanding enthusiast for many years. During that time, Ferenc has explored 75 countries on six continents, with overland travel involved in 40 countries on three continents. From his trusty 2006 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado with a roof-top tent, he’s blogged about experiences that can only be found in the remotest regions on Earth. Follow him over at: www.overlandsite.com

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13 Scary RV Locations in the USA

By: Author The Drivin' & Vibin' Team

Posted on September 3, 2024

Cruising down the highway in your RV is all about freedom, fun, and finding those killer camp spots. But sometimes, the road takes a twist into the spooky side, and you end up in places that make you question if you’re in a horror movie.

These 13 spots across the U.S. aren’t just scenic—they’re downright eerie.

So, buckle up, buttercup, and get ready for a ghostly ride!

1. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado

Ever seen The Shining ? Yeah, this is THAT hotel.

The Stanley Hotel is creepy with a capital “C.” Phantom piano tunes, ghosts who didn’t check out, and lights flickering on their own? You might find yourself wishing you could hit “reverse” on that RV of yours.

But hey, at least you’ll have a story to tell around the next campfire!

2. The Bridgewater Triangle – Massachusetts

This place is like the Bermuda Triangle’s weird cousin. The Bridgewater Triangle is all about UFOs, Bigfoot sightings, and spooky Native American spirits.

Set up camp here, and you might start thinking every rustle in the bushes is something out of this world. But who doesn’t love a little mystery, right?

3. Bodie Ghost Town – California

Bodie is an old ghost town frozen in time—and possibly cursed. Take a rock or even a pebble from here, and you might find yourself on the wrong end of some bad luck.

The silence here is deafening, and as the sun dips low, the town’s empty streets feel like the set of a post-apocalyptic movie.

Maybe keep that RV locked tight tonight.

4. Mount St. Helens – Washington

Mount St. Helens is a real beauty, but with a dark past. Since the 1980 eruption, folks have reported hearing voices on the wind and spotting shadowy figures in the trees.

It’s a jaw-dropping place to visit, but don’t be surprised if you get goosebumps that have nothing to do with the cold.

5. The Myrtles Plantation – St. Francisville, Louisiana

Welcome to The Myrtles Plantation, where Southern charm meets ghostly glamour. With a dozen ghosts reportedly calling this place home, it’s more like “haunted home” than “home sweet home.”

The RV parks nearby are peaceful enough, but you might find yourself checking the shadows for a few extra guests.

6. Clinton Road – West Milford, New Jersey

Clinton Road is like a real-life horror flick. Phantom trucks that chase you, ghost kids who appear in your rearview mirror, and all sorts of weirdness?

This road is basically the jackpot of spooky. It’s isolated, so when you park your RV, don’t be shocked if you suddenly feel like you’re the star of your own scary movie.

7. Joshua Tree National Park – California

Joshua Tree’s got those Insta-worthy views, but also a dash of the otherworldly. UFO sightings? Check. Mysterious lights in the sky? Double check.

Camping here is gorgeous by day, but at night? Well, let’s just say those stars might not be the only things watching you.

8. Salem – Massachusetts

Salem is the OG spooky town, thanks to those infamous witch trials. The energy here is as thick as the fog rolling off the harbor.

Sure, the RV parks are cozy, but the town’s history might have you sleeping with one eye open—especially around Halloween when things get extra witchy.

9. The Bell Witch Cave – Adams, Tennessee

The Bell Witch Cave is the ultimate spooky hideout. The legend of the Bell Witch is the stuff of nightmares, and the cave is said to be her lair.

If you’re brave (or crazy) enough to camp nearby, just know that the dark might bring more than just nightfall.

10. Devil’s Den – Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg is haunted AF, and Devil’s Den is ground zero for ghostly encounters. Soldiers’ spirits are said to roam these rocks, reliving battles long past. RVing near this spot is a history buff’s dream, but don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve got company, even when you’re alone.

11. The Crescent Hotel – Eureka Springs, Arkansas

The Crescent Hotel isn’t just haunted—it’s extra haunted.

Ghosts here are practically the staff!

The RV park nearby offers a chill place to crash, but with the Crescent Hotel just up the hill, don’t be shocked if you hear a bump in the night—or a ghostly whisper.

12. Helltown – Boston Township, Ohio

Helltown is basically the creepiest place you can think of. Abandoned and eerie, it’s got urban legends out the wazoo—Satanic rituals, mutant creatures, you name it.

Parking your RV here might just make you feel like you’ve signed up for a real-life horror story. Proceed with caution, my friend.

13. Area 51 – Nevada

Area 51 is like the holy grail of weirdness. Aliens, government conspiracies, and who knows what else? The surrounding desert is mysterious enough without all the UFO lore.

Rolling through here in your RV might make you rethink that strange light in the sky—or wonder if it’s time to phone home.

How Brave Are You?

RVing is all about the adventure, but sometimes that adventure comes with a side of spooky. These 13 spots aren’t just destinations—they’re experiences you’ll never forget (even if you want to).

So, grab your courage, hit the road, and prepare for some seriously creepy campfire tales. Safe travels, but don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA

To be honest with you,  we hate paying for camping . There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).

You should give it a try!

As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours.  Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.

Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site! 

We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state).  Access the list by submitting your email below:

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12 Best Road Trips in the Midwest

The midwest portion of the u.s. is often called flyover country, but make no mistake, this region is gorgeous from the ground — and that means a lot of great rving opportunities..

• 1.1 1. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota
• 1.2 2. Badlands to Black Hills, South Dakota
• 1.3 3. Route 66, Illinois
• 1.4 4. Milwaukee to the Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
• 1.5 5. Flint Hills, Kansas
• 1.6 6. Parke County, Indiana
• 1.7 7. Historic Hills Scenic Byway, Iowa
• 1.8 8. U.S. 12 Heritage Trail, Michigan
• 1.9 9. The Ozarks, Missouri
• 1.10 10. Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway
• 1.11 11. Antique Alley, Indiana
• 1.12 12. Lake Superior Circle Tour
• 1.13 Ready to Plan an RV Trip? Here's the tool we use:

Miles of sun-kissed farmland and crystal clear lakes frame the view out your windshield while some of the slower scenic routes — from the rolling Flint Hills of Kansas and Ozark mountains in Missouri to the tranquil covered hedges of Indiana and thundering waterfalls in Minnesota — can be seen just off the exit ramp.

No matter if it's a week-long journey around the rocky shores of Lake Superior or a quick day trip to a local state park, the United States' middle corridor has plenty to offer outdoors enthusiasts and backyard explorers alike. Here, some of the best Midwest road trips to get your wheels turning, thanks, in part, to the folks at BestLife.com .

1. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota

Start : Duluth, Minnesota

End : Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota

Distance : 145 miles

From Duluth, drive Highway 61 alongside the rocky beach of America's largest Great Lake, Lake Superior. The trip up Minnesota's North Shore is short — just under 150 miles — but there's plenty to see. If it's summer, explore the beaches with black sands (Black Beach) and pink pebbles (Iona's Beach), or pull over at Gooseberry Falls State Park  to take a dip in the pool at the base of a spectacular  waterfall  or hike the 18 miles of trails. There are several other panoramas along the way, including your last stop at  Grand Portage State Park by Canada's border — as well as gorgeous views via a two-mile gondola ride in Lutsen. 

2. Badlands to Black Hills, South Dakota

Start : Badlands, South Dakota

End : Black Hills, South Dakota

Distance : 130 miles

The Badlands has an otherworldly feel to it thanks to its multicolored peaks and vast volcanic rock landscape. Go slow and take your time meandering down the 40-mile scenic byway (SD 240), especially during dusk when the national park turns molten gold and dusty pink. From here, continue on to Rapid City for an overnight before exploring the  Black Hills National Forest the next day. This 1.2 million-acre region is home to some of America's must-see sites, such as Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Further north beyond Sturgis, Bear Butte State Park  is a beautiful place for a hike, and a sacred spot for Native Americans.

3. Route 66, Illinois

Start : Chicago, Illinois

End : Collinsville, Illinois

Distance : 300 miles

Route 66 is one of the quintessential American road trips, and no chapter of it is so charming — and underrated — as its path through Illinois, where there's enough retro kitsch to give you Instagram content for days. The Mother Road begins at the Route 66 sign on E. Jackson Boulevard in Chicago. You'll meander 300 miles south to St. Louis, passing 1940s diners, antique stores, gas stations, and drive-in movie theaters straight out of a vintage advertisement. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the almost 30-foot-tall Gemini Giant  in Wilmington, Illinois.

4. Milwaukee to the Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Start : Milwaukee, Wisconsin

End : Wisconsin Dells

Distance : 121 miles

Kick off the journey in Milwaukee, Wisconsin's brewing capital, where you can tour the  MillerCoors Brewery  and  Pabst Mansion , the former 19th-century home of Pabst Brewing founder Captain Frederick Pabst. Then, three hours northwest, the Waterpark Capital of the World is the perfect family-friendly getaway. A few of the  Wisconsin Dells  parks merit superlatives: America's largest outdoor  water park  (Noah's Ark), America's largest resort water park (Wilderness Waterpark Resort), and America's largest wave pool (also at Wilderness Waterpark Resort) lie along your route. However, the outdoors activities in the area make it an autumn and spring destination, too: Be sure to stop by the  Wisconsin Deer Park , where kids can feed Wasa crackers to free-roaming deer. Be sure to check out this previous Off the Beaten Path report on the Dells from RV Lifestyle. 

5. Flint Hills, Kansas

Start : Flint Hills, Kansas

End : Wichita, Kansas

Distance : 190 miles

The 190-mile trip through the endless undulations of the Flint Hills is a spectacular sight almost any time of year, though spring and fall show the area's colors at their best. Soak up the scenery at the 11,000-acre Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve  outside of Strong City, or take a detour on Rte. 901 to visit the 8,600-acre  Konza Prairie research preserve . Head another two hours south to arrive in Wichita, Kansas' largest city that features craft breweries, a Frank Lloyd Wright house museum, and striking street art in the Douglas Design District.

6. Parke County, Indiana

Start : Tangier, Indiana

End : Bridgeton, Indiana

Distance : 55 miles

Indiana's Parke County winds through 31 covered bridges, making it a spectacularly scenic drive — especially in October, when the Covered Bridge Festival draws local artisans, craftspeople, and farmers to showcase their produce and goods during peak fall foliage. Make sure to look out for the horse-drawn carriages frequently spotted in the countryside as well as the 19th-century general stores, mills, and log cabins in small towns like Mansfield and Bridgeton. 

7. Historic Hills Scenic Byway, Iowa

Start : Moravia, Iowa

End : Donnellson, Iowa

Distance : 110 miles

This route is full of historic sites, including Iowa's oldest courthouse and the state's only Civil War battlefield. But this area of Iowa also boasts three state parks, including a resort state park. It's worth taking a couple of days to drive the 110 miles of the highway, since there's so much to do, from fishing on the River Water trail and canoeing in the Lacey-Keosauqua State Park  to checking out the 100-plus Amish and Mennonite businesses around Drakesville and Bloomsfield.

8. U.S. 12 Heritage Trail, Michigan

Start : New Buffalo, Michigan

End : Detroit, Michigan

Distance : 180 miles

For one of the Midwest's quirkier road trips, consider the US 12 Heritage Trail , a.k.a. “Michigan's Largest Garage Sale.” Admittedly, this one takes some timing — the sale happens over a long weekend in August each year — but it's worth clearing your calendar for. Over three days, vendors line a 180-mile stretch of highway from New Buffalo to Detroit selling everything from antiques to homegrown vegetables. And no, the “heritage trail” distinction has nothing to do with Americans' love of a good bargain: It refers to the ancient Native American  trail the highway now covers (even further back, it was a part of a mastodon corridor, which drew the indigenous people who hunted them).

9. The Ozarks, Missouri

Start : Sullivan, Missouri

End : Lake Ozark, Missouri

Distance : 310 miles

With about 310 miles of routes and eye-popping side trips, Missouri's beautiful Ozark mountains, forests, and lakes offer up a bounty of natural attractions. Explore the  Onondaga Caves , the remnants of a sea that once covered the region, camp in the 1.5-million acre  Mark Twain National Forest , or bear witness to history at the  Indian Trail Conservation Area , which includes a stretch of the Trail of Tears. Be sure to check out this previous RV Lifestyle Off the Beaten Path report on Missiouri's caves. 

10. Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway

Start : Blakely, Minnesota

End : Ortonville, Minnesota

Distance : 287 miles

This 287-mile trip is a highlight reel of Minnesota's rivers and waterfronts. You can see it from behind the steering wheel, or make a pitstop and hike the trails in the six state parks that intercept  the byway . The area has a rich history as homeland to the Dakota people, whose name for the area is “Mni Sóta Maḳoce” (“the land where the water reflects the sky”); learn about their traditions and history at the  Lower Sioux Agency . There are also farm museums, historical homes, and Minnesota's oldest brewery,  August Schell Brewing Company .

11. Antique Alley, Indiana

Start : Richmond, Indiana

End : Knightstown or Portland, Indiana

Distance : 80 miles

T he so-called  “Antique Alley” of eastern Indiana is an 80-mile loop where more than 1,200 antique dealers have set up shop. The Historic Richmond Depot District, a thriving neighborhood in Richmond with some great restaurants, is worth an afternoon lunch stop before setting out to shop. Choose from two different trails: Trail one takes you from Richmond west to Knightstown via the Historic National Road U.S. 40, then back to your starting point on SR 38. The star attraction: Cambridge City, with two blocks of shops including 13 antique stores. The other trail takes you north from Richmond to Portland on US 27, with 25 antiques shops dotting the roadside.

12. Lake Superior Circle Tour

End : Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Distance : 1,300 miles

If you have some time, take the long way around Lake Superior on the Circle Tour , a 1,300-mile stretch of stunning shoreline in Wisconsin, Ontario, Minnesota, and Michigan. Mid-June is a great time to catch festivals before summer's peak tourist season begins, but if don't mind cooler temps, late September is ideal for seeing the leaves change. If you can't make the entire tour, any of the individual state segments merit a vacation of their own, as you can see in the video we did below for Superior's Wisconsin and Minnesota north shore. 

Ready to Plan an RV Trip? Here's the tool we use:

Planning an RV Trip has never been easier than with  RV TripW izard . It is a comprehensive tool that Jennifer and I use whenever we are planning a trip. It works seamlessly with all our devices and gives us access to the info we need on where to stop, what camping is nearby and what we should do in an area.

Best of all, you can try it for free to see how it will fit into your trip planning process.

Published on 2020-01-12

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.

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• Holiday Inspiration /
• Road Trips /

The best of the west road trip

When the weather gets cooler it’s time to start your winter road trip adventure at the top end of Western Australia and chase the sun. Not only is there warm weather but the nature, food and incredible scenery is unforgettable.

This 7-10 day journey will take you through the rugged outback, stunning coastlines and some of the best National Parks Australia has to offer, so just bring your holiday mode and get ready to explore. To make your planning easy, we've put together a road trip with the best spots you can’t miss!

Stop number one - Onslow

Starting off this long desert road trip with a touch of a coastal setting in Onslow. A popular stop for holidayers heading up to Karratha and a great place to kick off your relaxed holiday. Come and stay with us at  Discovery Parks – Onslow  and do as much – or as little – as you please. A town enriched in its history of pearling, cattle farming and especially gold mining, visit Goods Shed Museum to learn all about this. Take it easy at either Sunrise or Sunset beach or take part in one of the many water activities. Catch your dinner at Five Mile Pool, a top place to go mud crabbing and come back to park to use our camp kitchen where you can show off your catch of the day!

Onslow to Pilbara – 4 hours  

Next stop,  Discovery Parks – Pilbara, Karratha  just four hours from Onslow, you will find your true outback experience. Karratha is the perfect base to explore the natural beauty of  the region. Karratha means ‘good country’ in the language of the local Indigenous community and you’ll be awestruck by the raw, natural treasures of the Pilbara in Australia’s North West. The massive gorges, crystal clear rock pools and waterfalls of Karijini National Park are a must-see. Just off the coast, the Dampier Archipelago and Mackerel Islands offer world-class boating, fishing, diving and snorkelling, while the seasonal natural phenomenon, Staircase to the Moon, is extraordinary. Our holiday park’s excellent accommodation choices and facilities are perfect for resting up at the end of a long day.

Pilbara to Port Hedland – 3 hours  

A short three hour drive and you’ll arrive at Port Hedland, the second largest town in the region.  Discovery Parks – Port Hedland  is a great base for outdoor adventures, from off-road driving to coastal walks and endless fishing hot spots. Located on a water-front location in Port Hedland it offers direct beach access, or you can enjoy easy explorations of the Pilbara Region of Western Australia's rugged North West. Visit the world's largest bulk tonnage export port, perfect for fishing, crabbing, and whale watching. The town is famous for its impressive resource industry so take a BHP Billiton Iron Ore Tour or a Reef Walk to discover Port Hedland’s rich ecosystem. Rich in Indigenous culture and bursting with wildlife, discover the diverse experiences this unique town has to offer.

Port Hedland to Broome – 6 hours

Pack the snacks and queue the great playlist cause your next stop, Broome, is a six hour drive away.  Discovery Parks - Broome  is the only park in town located on the beach, with uninterrupted views over the turquoise waters of Roebuck Bay. After waking up to the gentle crashing of waves on the shore, head for a cuppa at the Town Beach Cafe on site. When you're ready, lace up your boots and take on this adventure. You can explore this town in the sky, ocean or land by plane, boat or car with incredible tours taking you through all the hidden treasures. The warm temperatures and tropical feeling will draw you straight to the iconic Cable Beach, an incredible landscape that stretches over 22kms where white sand meets bright blue water. Make sure you experience the sundowner Camel Tours, it's the perfect way to end your day - just make sure you don’t forget your camera, there will be plenty of photo opportunities on your ride. 

Broome to Lake Kununurra – 10.5 hours

Lots of people love to leave the best thing till last and that’s exactly what we have done on this road trip. Lake Kununurra is shared by swimmers, anglers, bird watchers and water sports enthusiasts alike and is the gateway to some of Western Australia’s most remarkable natural attractions. Although it is a long drive, there is so much to see and do on the way up. Let  Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra  be your final home away from home, set on 10 acres of Australian bushland this is the only park on the edge of the lake. Boasting breathtaking waterfront views you can relax with friends or settle along the banks and enjoy the sunset show nature puts on as a feeling of calm envelops you. Around the park take a dip in the pool to cool off and cook up a storm in the BBQ areas provided. Check out the unusual rock formations of Mirima National Park and the incredible Bungle Bungle Ranges in Purnululu National Park or take a sunset cruise on Lake Argyle. Enjoy the heat on your back, soaking up some final sunrays before heading home and having a toast to what has been a trip of a lifetime.

Jump in the car and head off on a great Aussie adventure! Get ready to see the best of the West.

EXPLORE OUR PARKS IN WA

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• Burrill Lake, Ulladulla
• Emerald Beach
• Harrington Beach
• Horseshoe Lagoon
• Lake Hume, New South Wales
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• Moama Waters
• Narooma Beach
• Pambula Beach
• Alice Springs
• Discovery Resorts - Glen Helen
• Discovery Resorts - Kings Canyon
• Airlie Beach
• Coolwaters, Yeppoon
• Discovery Resorts - Undara
• Fraser Street, Hervey Bay
• Mount Surprise
• Rockhampton
• Tannum Sands
• Adelaide Beachfront
• Barossa Valley
• Kangaroo Island
• Lake Bonney
• Port Augusta
• Roxby Downs
• Streaky Bay Foreshore
• Whyalla Foreshore
• Cradle Mountain
• Mornington Hobart
• Lake Hume, Victoria
• Mildura, Buronga Riverside
• Mount Buffalo
• Nagambie Lakes
• Warrnambool
• Bunbury Foreshore
• Bunbury Village
• Coogee Beach
• Discovery Resorts - Lake Argyle
• Discovery Resorts - Rottnest Island
• Kalgoorlie Goldfields
• Lake Kununurra
• Margaret River
• Perth Airport
• Pilbara, Karratha
• Port Hedland
• Swan Valley
• Woodman Point

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