15 best RV sites in the US for a fall road trip

Lizzie DragonSeptember 22, 2021

15 best RV sites in the US for a fall road trip

Fueled up for fall? We’ve rounded up the best RV sites and campgrounds across the US for a scenic stay on your fall road trip. From luxury RV parks to simple state park campgrounds, there’s somewhere for everyone.

In this blog, we’ll break down our top 3 RV sites in each of these categories:

Keep reading!

Best RV parks

Leavenworth RV Campground

Location: Leavenworth, Washington

best rv sites in washington

Camp among the Cascade Mountains at Leavenworth RV campground. With 300 acres of forests and meadows, this RV site is a beautiful place to spend any season but especially fall. With onsite hiking trails, you don’t even have to go far to experience it all.

What to do

Lake Wenatchee State Park

Spanning 492 acres of clear blue water and beautiful mountain views, Lake Wenatchee State Park is the perfect place for a horse ride, picnic, and day of kayaking. The glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River are must-sees in the Northwest.

Leavenworth Reindeer Farm

Where are all the reindeer hanging out before Christmas Day? Well, rumor has it, they’re all at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. Book a tour at this family-run farm and get to know all about the endangered species, Woodland Caribou.

Icicle Gorge

Take a hike through the forest and around the Icicle River. The diverse landscape that makes up each side of the river makes this 3.5-mile trek is bound to keep your interest every step of the way.

What to drive

Ready to explore Washington? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Leavenworth!

Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park

Location: West Yellowstone, Montana

Only four blocks away from the entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park is a peak location for a fall stay. The surrounding areas offer some of the best fly fishing in the United States along with opportunities for endless outdoor recreation, site seeing, shopping, and dining.

What to do

Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

An AZA Accredited, Not-for-Profit Wildlife Park, Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is the best place to see Yellowstone Wildlife — grizzly bears, wolves, otters, raptors, and more!

Playmill Theatre

For over 50 years, Playmill Theatre has been providing fun, family-friendly entertainment. Take a break from all the site-seeing and wildlife-watching in Yellowstone, and sit down for some good, live theatre.

Yellowstone River

With so much to do and see in Yellowstone National Park, it’s nearly impossible to feature just one activity. That said, as the last major free-flowing river in the lower 48 states, we figured Yellowstone River was worth a mention. Fish for trout or hike the Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail.

What to drive

Ready to explore Montana? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near West Yellowstone!

Ancient Cedars RV Park

Location: Mesa Verde, Colorado

At Ancient Cedars RV Park, you can camp under the dark night sky and among the cedar trees and, during the day, play a round of mini-golf or go for a horseback ride. This pet-friendly RV site is located directly across from Mesa Verde National Park. Need we say more?

What to do

Ute Mountain Tribal Park

Named one of the “80 World Destinations for Travel in the 21st Century” by National Geographic, Ute Mountain Tribal Park is one worth exploring. Take a half-day or full-day tour where members of the Ute tribe guide you through tribal culture, pictographs, cliff dwellings, surface ruins, and artifacts around the park.

Cliff Palace

One of the largest cliff dwellings in the world, Cliff Palace was built by Ancestral Puebloans. The Cliff Palace Loop Road will take you past Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and other cliff dwellings overlooks. If you want to go inside any of these, however, you will need to book a tour.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Fall is the perfect time for a scenic drive. And even better? A scenic ride. Take a train ride through the Rocky Mountains on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad about an hour from the campsite.

What to drive

Ready to explore Colorado? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Mesa Verde!

Best glamping RV sites

Inn Town Campground

Location: Nevada City, California

glamping in nevada city
Image source: inntowncampground.com

For those who appreciate the joy of camping but the still crave comforts of home, Inn Town Campground is the place to stay. Their cozy tents offer electricity, heated mattress pads, a fan, comfy mattresses, private porches/balconies, and more!

What to do

Tahoe National Forest

Here, at Outdoorsy, we’re huge fans of National Forests. And what better place is there to experience the crisp air and changing colors of fall than in the trees? Take a hike or an e-bike ride through the pines of Tahoe National Forest.

Nevada City Winery

Visit the oldest operating winery in Nevada County, Nevada City Winery. With 27 wines for your tasting, you’re bound to find one (or 27) that tickles your fancy.

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

In 1965, Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park was created to preserve the exciting and controversial story of the largest hydraulic gold mining operation in the US. Now you can hike through the park and see the cliffs and streams formed by mining techniques and visit the ghost town of North Bloomfield.

What to drive

Ready to explore California? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Nevada City!

Fancy Camps

Location: Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

glamping in Florida
Image source: fancycamps.com

Fancy Camps host several campsites at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Their glamping tents are complete with heating, cooling, bedding, and decor that’ll make your stay comfortable and stylish.

What to do

Topsail Beach State Preserve

Located in Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Topsail Beach is a beautiful and nearby must-visit. With 3 miles of pristine beach, Topsail is great for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

Henderson Beach State Park

Wade in the warm gulf waters and bask in the sunshine at Henderson Beach State Park. And while you’re there, make sure to keep an eye out for turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds.

Underwater Museum of Art

The first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the U.S., the Underwater Museum of Art is 58-feet deep off the shore of Grayton Beach State Park. Schedule a dive to experience the art and all the marine life that inhabit it.

What to drive

Ready to explore Florida? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Santa Rosa Beach!

Collective Retreats Hill Country

Location: Wimberly, Texas

rv sites in texas
Image source: collectiveretreats.com

Park your rig and spend the night in the Hill Country at Collective Retreats. Not only do you get to stay in one of their stylish Summit Tents but you also get complimentary Gourmet S’mores at the nightly campfire, cooked-to-order breakfast, and so much more! Now, this is glamping.

The Hill Country not your thing? Check out other Collective Retreat locations.

What to do

Devil’s Backbone Scenic Drive

As we approach Halloween, this reportedly haunted road is the perfect drive. Tell some spooky stories as you breathe in the crisp air and take in the gorgeous Texas scenery.

Canyon Lake

Canyon Lake is a favorite in Texan with its vibrant blue color. If you dare, take the plunge in the 130-feet cold water or just take a boat ride as you enjoy the surrounding forest of oak and juniper trees.

Lost Maples State Natural Area

Lost Maples is known for its fall color, so it had to make the list! Though it’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Wimberly, it’s worth it for the changing scenery of the Uvalde bigtooth maples.

What to drive

Ready to explore the Hill Country? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Wimberly!

Best State Park RV sites

Makoshika State Park

Location: Glendive, Montana

best state parks for camping
Image source: fwp.mt.gov

Pine and Juniper trees and Badland formations decorate Montana’s largest state park, Makoshika State Park. With 28 RV sites and campgrounds, ranging from yurts to tipis to rustic campsites, it’s worth a stay.

What to do

Gunners Ridge Trail

Gunners Ridge Trail to Hungry Joe Overlook is a 4.4-mile trek that’ll take you past a river, through wildflowers, and to a gorgeous overlook. There are 13 trails within Makoshika State Park, ranging in difficulty, and all complete with interesting views.

Montana Dinosaur Trail

The Dinosaur Trails runs throughout the state of Montana. Across 14 locations, you can catch a glimpse of all the state’s historic discoveries, including the giants that once inhabited it.

Frontier Gateway Museum

Part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail, the Frontier Gateway Museum displays range from prehistoric times to the 20th century. You’ll find everything from turn-of-the-century gowns and armor to fossils and skeleton casts.

What to drive

Ready to explore Montana? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Glendive!

Pedernales Falls State Park

Location: Johnson City, Texas

best state parks for camping

If you’re looking to see some fall foliage in Texas, Pedernales Falls State Park is the place to be in late October through early November. If you decide to camp instead of glamp in the Hill Country, you can choose from primitive RV sites and campsites with electricity at the park.

What to do

Pedernales Loop

The Pedernales Loop Trail takes you across a river and through to an overlook. Even better, it’s dog and horse-friendly! Other notable trails include the Pedernales Falls, Twin Falls, and Wolf Mountain trails.

Texas Hill Country Wineries

With over 50 wineries scattered throughout the Hill Country, there’s somewhere to sit and have a sip from Austin to Fredericksburg. After a hike through Pedernales State Park, stop by Pedernales Cellars for stunning views and superb wines.

Texas White House

In Lyndon B Johnson National Historic Park, the Texas White House is a popular stop for all those interested in Texas history. This was the home of President Johnson and a center of political activity for over 20 years.

What to drive

Ready to explore Texas? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Johnson City!

Crystal Cove State Park

Location: Laguna Beach, California

best state parks for camping

Take the Pacific Coast Highway to Crystal Cove State Park. Here, you can book a waterside campsite or go backcountry camping. Whether you choose to hit the beach or head for the trails, there are so many ways to explore Orange County and all its beauty.

What to do

Moro Canyon

There are various routes through Moro Canyon, from any easy 3-mile trail to a strenuous 9-mile trek. Whatever trail you take, it’s a beautiful walk.

Thousand Steps Beach

Laguna Beach, California is home to many popular beaches. And if stairs don’t scare you Thousand Steps Beach is one of the best. There’s volleyball to play, caves to explore, and waves to be surfed (if the weather allows).

Pacific Marine Mammal Center

For 50 years, the Mammal Center has been rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing marine mammals and working to inspire ocean stewardship through all their conservation efforts. Stop by to see their California sea lions, Northern elephant seals, Pacific harbor seals, or Northern fur seal patients.

What to drive

Ready to explore California? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Laguna Beach!

Best RV resorts

Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort

Location: Belfast, Maine

rv sites in maine

If you love an ocean view during any season, Moorings Oceanfront RV Resort is the best RV site for your rig. Stay along Maine’s picturesque Penobscot Bay with every modern RV amenity you’ll ever need.

What to do

Belfast Harborwalk

A walk along the Belfast Harbor takes you through a working shipyard, city park, and garden. This short, scenic stroll will take you through to downtown where you can enjoy a meal and some shopping.

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park

Climb the lighthouse tower, wander through the art gallery, and visit the Fisherman’s Museum at Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park. Though it’s a bit of a drive to this historic lighthouse, it’s well worth it. However, if you’re looking for a lighthouse nearer Belfast, check out Fort Point Lighthouse.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast,” is one of the most visited National Park and for good reason. Here, the forest, mountains, and the sea collide to form the most awe-inspiring backdrop for hiking, fishing, and all outdoor recreation.

What to drive

Ready to explore Maine? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Belfast!

Seven Feathers RV Resort

Location: Canyonville, Oregon

rv sites near crater lake

Seven Feathers RV Resort has everything you could ever want on a pristine 23 acres. Test your luck at Seven Feathers Casino, work out in the fitness room, or relax in the heated pool. Then, venture out to all the parks and falls Oregon has to offer.

What to do

Cape Blanco State Park

Along the westernmost tip of Oregon, Cape Blanco State Park offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, over 8 miles of hiking trails, and a 19th-century lighthouse. With ocean views and the oldest standing lighthouse in the state, the park is rich in beauty and history.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake was formed 7,700 years ago by a violent volcanic eruption. Now, it exists as the deepest lake in the US. To explore it, you can hike the 90 miles of trails that take you through the forests of the park, leading to peaks that overlook the lake. Or take a boat tour!

Mill Creek and Barr Creek Falls

While you’re in the Crater Lake area, head southwest to Mill Creek and Barr Creek Falls. You can catch a glimpse of both on a 1.4-mile hike. Then, hit the road to other Oregon waterfalls!

What to drive

Ready to explore Oregon? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Canyonville!

Zion River Resort

Location: Virgin, Utah

rv sites near Zion National Park

Zion River Resort is nestled along the Zion River, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountains, AND just minutes from Zion National Park. It doesn’t get much better than this!

What to do

Zion National Park

One of the most popular parks in the country and the most visited National Park in Utah, Zion National Park should be on your bucket list. Without exaggeration, every inch of this park is a sight to behold.

Sand Hollow State Park

One of Utah’s newer state parks is one of its most popular. Kayak at Sand Hollow Reservoir or take an off-highway vehicle through the sand dunes. Whatever adventure you choose, with the surrounding sandstone cliffs, it’s bound to be a gorgeous one.

Toquerville Falls

A breathtaking oasis among the desert, Toquerville Falls is a refreshing change in scenery. Do note that you may need an off-roading vehicle to make the 11.7-mile journey.

What to drive

Ready to explore Utah? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Virgin!

Best roadside motels

And when you want to spend some time outside of your RV, why not stop at one of these iconic (and instagrammable) roadside motels? Don’t get us wrong, we love staying at RV sites, but sometimes you just want to retro style and comfort of a roadside motel.

Amigo Motor Lodge

Location: Salida, Colorado

retro motel in colorado
Image source: coloradocountrylife.com

Amigo Motor Lodge, a newly renovated boutique motel with 60-year-old bones, offers casual comfort at a reasonable price. And with Tuft and Needle mattresses and so much to do nearby, this is the perfect place to rest your head after a day of adventure!

What to do

Browns Canyon National Monument

Spanning over 20,000 acres of terrain, Browns Canyon National Monument is the ideal place for outdoor recreation in Salida. As it towers over the Arkansas River, hikers, anglers, and rafters will have optimal views of the Arkansas Valley and the Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains. 

Salida Hot Springs

Take a dip in the mineral-rich pools at Salida Hot Springs. For 80 years, the water has been piped directly to the pools from underground springs eight miles away. And today, it’s one of the largest indoor hot springs pools in the country!

Other nearby hot springs include: Mt Princeton, Cottonwood Hot SpringsJoyful Journey, and Valley View

Riverside Park

Pack a picnic and head to Riverside Park. There, you can enjoy a nice charcuterie board as you sit riverside. And when you’re tired of sitting go for a stroll around the park or climb the bouldering wall!

What to drive

Ready to explore Colorado? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Salida!

The Sunset Motel

Location: Brevard, North Carolina

retro motel in north carolina
Image source: ourstate.com

Explore the small town of Brevard as you stay at the cute, retro, and totally instagrammable, Sunset Motel. They boast the classic, roadside motel experience with friendly staff, clean rooms, and chairs outside, so you can get to know your neighbors.

What to do

Pisgah National Forest

With its forested slopes, white water rivers, countless waterfalls, Pisgah National Forest is a gorgeous and serene place to spend your fall days. Hike the hundreds of miles of trails and enjoy the sounds of nature. OR take a windows-down drive while blasting Taylor Swift’s Folklore.

Gorges State Park

With 7,500 acres of rugged land, Gorges State Park is full of backcountry activities. Among those activities are distance hiking, backpack camping, trout fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Translyvania Heritage Museum

This is a great place for history buffs. Exhibits throughout this 1890’s home turned museum, lead you through the history of Transylvania County.

What to drive

Ready to explore North Carolina? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Brevard!

Vagabond Hotel

Location: Miami, Florida

retro motels in miami
Image source: thrillest.com

When the New York Times called the Vagabond Hotel “retro chic,” they were right on the money. The hotel has reestablished its glamorous past as a fabled Rat Pack hangout it was in 1953. Book a room and stay in this vibrant community as long as you want!

What to do

Biscayne National Park

Fishing, lobstering, boating, kayaking, diving — you can do all the water activities in Biscayne National Park, even in the fall. 95% of the park is covered by water, making it the watery wonderland that it is.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

The biggest draw of Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is the historic 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse. Atop you can get spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, which are all the more beautiful at sunset.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

A National Historic Landmark, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a Gilded Age estate on Biscayne Bay. Surrounded by ten acres of formal gardens, a mangrove shoreline, and a rockland hammock, it’s as picturesque as it is historic.

What to drive

Ready to explore Florida? Here are a couple of RV rental options:

Find an RV rental near Miami!

Happy fall travels!

If you’re reading this the day that it was published, it’s September 22 aka the first day of fall — yay! Here’s to the changing autumn leaves, breaths of fresh fall air, and pumpkin spice lattes. We hope you find what you’re looking for at these RV sites and wish you the happiest fall travels!

Lizzie Dragon, Outdoorsy Author


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