The Great River Road is one of America's most scenic and historic drives, following the Mississippi River through 10 states from Minnesota to Louisiana. This RV trip offers breathtaking views, charming river towns, rich history, and diverse landscapes.

1. Route Overview

• Length: ~3,000 miles
• States Covered: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana
• Best Time to Travel: Spring and fall for mild weather and stunning scenery

2. Must-See Stops Along the Route Minnesota – The Headwaters

• Itasca State Park – Visit the source of the Mississippi River.
• Minneapolis/St. Paul – Explore the riverfront, museums, and Minnehaha Falls.
• Red Wing – A picturesque town known for Red Wing boots and pottery.

Wisconsin & Iowa – River Bluffs & Historic Towns

• La Crosse, WI – Great river views and historic downtown.
• Effigy Mounds National Monument, IA – Ancient Native American burial mounds.
• Dubuque, IA – Visit the National Mississippi River Museum and take the Fenelon Place Elevator for amazing views.

Illinois & Missouri – Mark Twain Country

• Galena, IL – Historic streets, Ulysses S. Grant's home, and wineries.
• Hannibal, MO – Birthplace of Mark Twain, home to Tom Sawyer's Cave.
• St. Louis, MO – Visit the Gateway Arch, eat BBQ, and explore Forest Park.

Kentucky & Tennessee – Music & Culture

• Columbus-Belmont State Park, KY – Civil War history along the river.
• Memphis, TN – Walk down Beale Street, tour Graceland, and visit Sun Studio.

Arkansas & Mississippi – Southern Heritage

• Arkansas Post National Memorial – The first European settlement in Arkansas.
• Vicksburg, MS – Tour Vicksburg National Military Park, a key Civil War site.
• Natchez, MS – Known for antebellum mansions and historic charm.

Louisiana – The Big Finish

• Baton Rouge, LA – Visit the Old State Capitol and explore Cajun cuisine.
• New Orleans, LA – End your trip with jazz, Creole food, and the historic French Quarter.

3. RV Camping & Accommodations

• Best Campgrounds:
  • Itasca State Park (MN) – Stay near the river's source.
  • Pikes Peak State Park (IA) – Incredible bluff-top views.
  • Tom Sawyer's RV Park (AR) – Located right on the river in West Memphis.
  • Bayou Segnette State Park (LA) – Great access to New Orleans.
• Boondocking Options:
  • National forests and public lands along the route.
  • Harvest Hosts for unique stays at wineries and farms.

4. Tips for an Epic Great River Road RV Trip

• Follow the green pilot wheel signs – These mark the official Great River Road route.
• Take scenic detours – Explore charming river towns and historic sites.
• Try local cuisine – Enjoy fresh fish in Minnesota, BBQ in Memphis, and Cajun flavors in Louisiana.
• Visit in fall for foliage – The bluffs and forests along the river explode with color.
• Plan for river ferries – Some areas require short ferry crossings.