When most RVers think of hitting the road, their minds immediately jump to the spring or summer months. Understandably so, as those seasons offer some of the best weather of the year. Plus, they can make traveling simply wonderful. But, it’s important not to dismiss fall though as an ideal time of year to hit the road. Fall traveling can mean fewer crowds, more park availability, and more fun to be had in the outdoors as temperatures drop and leaves change. In fact, there are several areas around the country that shine most in the fall.
When considering your next RV excursion, don’t discount autumn as an excellent time to plan for a trip. Witnessing the leaves change colors as Mother Nature paints the landscape in fiery hues never stops being breathtaking. In fact, it’s hard to snap a bad photo when your RV’s backdrop is bursting with fairytale fall foliage. If you want to enjoy the best of late September through November, like scenic drives, picture-perfect overlooks, and crisp weather–then get the family together and go RVing. On the road is really the best way to experience the season in all its glory.
We can assure you there is plenty of fall family fun to be had both off the grid or at the campground. Here are five fantastic, photo-worthy fall RV destinations around the country to fill your Instagram grid or your family photo albums.
Newport, Rhode Island
Set on Aquidneck Island, Newport is a beautiful harbor city in the state of Rhode Island. It’s known as a sailing town with plenty to do, and that’s a true assessment. There is also some seriously inspiring scenery. Without a doubt, you’ll want to enjoy a therapeutic walk through Fort Adams State Park and take advantage of the numerous wineries in the area; you should also drive through the beautiful countryside to soak it all in.
Take your RV down Route 4, south from Providence, to enjoy some breathtaking views. With the trees changing in the fall you’d better have your camera ready or a full charge on your phone. Rhode Island is packed with RV parks, so you’ll have no problem finding a place to set up camp and relax after a busy day if only to scroll through the dozen, possibly hundreds, of insta-worthy images you managed to capture.
Campgrounds Nearby:
Meadowlark RV Park Ashaway RV Resort Melville Ponds Campground & RV ParkHood River, Oregon
A port city on the Columbia River, which acts bisects states of Oregon and Washington, Hood River provides some of the most alluring sights to see in all of the Pacific Northwest. Don’t get so caught up in looking around at the ancient old-growth forests that you forget to take several pictures while you’re there. As a bonus, there are plenty of RV parks right on the river for maximum convenience. Whether you’re driving a Class B or pulling a Fifth Wheel, there’s a spot waiting for you in the shadow of Mt. Hood.
Experience all that this wonderful place has to offer by booking a longer stay, like a week or two. Hiking, rafting, kayaking, and fishing are all common activities that require a little more than a few days to embrace and enjoy. A week long getaway to the PNW (Pacific Northwest) is a trip you won’t regret. Nearby cities and towns, such as Portland, are home to quality microbreweries. The accompanying culinary scene offers plenty to love, too with many farm-to-table options. Eat, drink, and be merry! The fall months provide some of the most spectacular views when the leaves turn, meaning you’d better be ready to dive into your adventures.
Campgrounds Nearby:
Gorge Base Camp RV Park Tucker Park Wind Mountain RV Park & LodgeDoor County, Wisconsin
Located just east of Green Bay, Wisconsin on a peninsula, Door County provides an extremely unique experience. The peninsula is full of state parks, beaches, and RV parks. If you’re a hiker, cyclist, or water and beach-lover, you’ll find Door County to be a dreamy place. Imagine blazing colored leaves that fade from red to orange to yellow, and dot the paths and water’s surface as they fall from the trees. There’s no way you can visit the area and not capture an image, or several images, worth sharing.
Don’t know what to check out first? No worries, it can be slightly overwhelming. Try the Cana Island Lighthouse for a bird’s eye view. From there you can head to Whitefish Dunes State Park, Peninsula State Park, Potawatomi State Park, or Mud Lake State Wildlife Area and take in the sights at the ground level. After adventuring, try a traditional Door County fish boil at White Gull Inn. Scandinavian settlers started this cooking method over a century ago, and it’s just as delicious today.
Campgrounds Nearby:
Big Lake Campground Ahnapee River Trails Campground Timber Trail CampgroundBar Harbor, Maine
Maine offers a lush, awe-inspiring landscape that is beyond photogenic–it’s cinematic. Trust us, you’ll want to pull the RV over often to take in the sights and snap several pictures. Simply put, Bar Harbor should be at the top of your list for Maine RVing. Situated just east of Acadia National Park, the city gives you access to the exquisite Frenchman Bay and the magical sunsets and sunrises that bookend each day.
RV parks are located in or around the breathtaking Acadia National Park or right in Bar Harbor if you want to be closer to the water and all the recreation it has to offer. Fall is a great time to miss the crowds, and you’ll get to see the best performance from Mother Nature as the trees turn quickly at the start of Autumn. You can split your time between the national park and the harbor city’s coastal charm. Watch your Instagram feed evolve along with the foliage around you.
Campgrounds Nearby:
Narrows Too Camping Resort Bar Harbor Campground Hadley’s Point CampgroundRoanoke, Virginia
Sitting alongside the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia is the charming little city of Roanoke. With the Blue Ridge Mountains and George Washington and Jefferson National Forest so close, RV parks are scattered all around the area surrounding Roanoke. You can spend your day driving along the scenic parkway and hiking in the beautiful mountains all while watching the season show off around you. Your camera roll will be happy and full after you return from this RV trip with photos the family will really want to see.
You can also take in the art galleries, museums, and interesting shops offered in town while you’re RVing around Roanoke. Let’s face it, if you’re in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the fall, you’re probably a “leaf peeper,”–someone who travels to photograph and see North America’s glorious transition season. With the leaves turning, you’ll see some of the most vibrant fall colors of any place in the nation. Though Texas hill country has recently entered the scene as a new RV fall destination, the Blue Ridge will never lose its spot as one of the best places to bask in fiery colors.
While you’re in the Blue Ridge, plan several hikes. Some Appalachian hikes are easy, quick, and suitable for all ages to hike. Once at the summit or overlook, take a selfie or set up the self-timer. Crop it, caption it, and hit post as quickly as you can. Then, sit back as the likes roll in.
Campgrounds Nearby:
Dixie Caverns and Campground Explore Park Middle Creek CampgroundWant more stops along your adventure? Here are 5 more destinations perfect for viewing fall foliage. Make sure to tag us in your posts or use the hashtag #campingworldrv so we can see you on the road.
What’s your favorite fall RV destination? Leave a comment below!