8 of America’s Most Scenic Routes and Where to Camp Along the Way

One of the beautiful things about America is that it’s so different from place to place. The west coast looks nothing like the east coast, and all parts in-between are entirely unique, giving adventurers the feeling they’ve experienced the whole world within 50 states. And as the old adage goes, ‘it’s not about the destination, but more about the journey.’ So, jump off the interstate for a while, and take one of these eight scenic routes. You won’t regret it.

Pacific Coast Highway

California’s legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs from San Francisco to San Diego, primarily (and aptly) right along the coast. The scenery is breathtaking, with cliffs and beaches—plus plenty of awesome taco places to stop at along the way. Started in the 1930s, the PCH is meant to be traversed slowly to take in the towering trees and endless skylines. Without stopping, the entire length of the PCH takes about 10 hours to drive, but plan for longer because stopping to soak in the sea views is encouraged. The PCH is busiest in July and August, but the weather is perfect from late spring through fall.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Overseas Highway

US Highway 1 (often called the “Highway that Goes to Sea”) starts in Miami and strings together the Florida Keys. That means the Overseas Highway is really a unique band of connecting bridges. The 113 miles of roadway features 42 bridges that play leapfrog from key to key in the form of concrete and steel arches. From beach bars to water sports and deep-sea fishing, this journey through the Florida Keys a beautiful way to escape the winter doldrums of the north. In 2009, the US Federal Highway Administration named the Overseas Highway Florida’s first All-American Road.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Blue Ridge Parkway

Nestled high in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and the Carolinas, the nearly-500 miles of twists and turns of the Blue Ridge Parkway offer exceptional mountain views. And not just in the summer months, either. The colors of fall explode in a spectrum across the ridges, and there are lots of ski resorts open in the winter. World-renowned for its biodiversity, visitors can expect to encounter a wide array of vegetation and wildlife along their journey.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Trail Ridge Road

Do you want a good view of wildlife? Trail Ridge Road, winding through the Rocky Mountain National Park, is the highest continually-paved road in the state. Coming in at 48 miles long, it starts at Estes Park on the east side of the park and traces a path to Grand Lake on the west. It’s not uncommon to find herds of elk or even an occasional moose on the road. (Friendly reminder: never approach wildlife. Maintain respect for them and their surroundings.) Regardless if you start in the east and work your way through to the west side of the park, or in reverse, you can expect to climb nearly 4,000 feet in just a few minutes. In fact, 11 miles will have you traveling above the treelines.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Park Loop Road

New England isn’t to be missed, especially in the fall. Maine, in particular, has some wild, beautiful countrysides to explore. You can get a good glimpse of it while driving along Park Loop Road. Located near Bar Harbor, this 27-mile road navigates you through Acadia National Park and offers several beautiful overlooks as you’re traveling. It’s the go-to scenic drive that connects Acadia’s lakes, shoreline, and mountains – you’re not going to want to miss this one.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Highway 101

Get ready! The Pacific Coast Highway 101 runs the length of the coast of Oregon. This incredible single road will run you through old forests with giant redwoods, glorious beaches with scenic coastlines, over several grandiose bridges, and wind you around several national parks. If you’re looking for the ultimate RV road trip for the whole family, look no further.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Arizona State Route 89A

Not all routes are hundreds of miles long. Take State Route 89A in Arizona, for example; it runs just under 84 miles. However, the views you’ll see along the way will have you stopping far more regularly. From Prescott to Flagstaff, you’ll cross Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon and take in all of the gorgeous red rocks, towering sandstone formations, and dense pine forests. The Grand Canyon isn’t far from Flagstaff if you need more convincing. Everyone loves a two-for-one trip.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Ocean Drive

In the nation’s smallest state, Rhode Island, this 10-mile route may be short, but the views are nothing short of breathtaking. The views not only encapsulate the ocean and its shores but also the houses. This historic district used to be a favorite vacation spot of the fabulously wealthy. As a result, there’s a lot of fantastic architecture to take in as you drive—including former homes of the Astors and Vanderbilts. You’ll even pass by Hammersmith Farm, where Jackie Kennedy spent her childhood.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

The only thing left to do now is hit the road for some serious sightseeing! Visit a Camping World to find the perfect RV. Buy, trade-in, or rent and RV and try out the RV lifestyle. Visit your local Camping World and get ready to see the splendor of the United States.