Unlocking Life’s Greatest Adventures: The Bucket List Journey
Once you retire from punching the clock, it is time to hit the road in your RV or travel trailer. You likely have quite a few stops to check off your bucket list. Studies have shown you can save money by visiting these places in an RV or travel trailer. Here are the top places of interest in the USA; these 50 locations nationwide should be on your bucket list to consider adding to your upcoming vacation.
Disney World
FLORIDA
You may have visited Disney World with your kids or even your grandkids in the past. However, visiting Disney World as a retiree without children is entirely different. You will be able to experience the attractions, rides, and other park events in a way you have never done before – especially with all the new additions and improvements that Disney continues to make year after year.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort in Orlando is a haven for retirees, designed to cater to large groups and RVs. Each site is equipped with premium amenities like picnic tables and charcoal grills, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely outdoor meal. The full hookups ensure a comfortable stay, especially when you have multi-day passes to explore the Disney parks at your own pace.
Plan your adventure: Disney World
New York City
NEW YORK
You cannot enjoy everything New York City offers in a single day or even on a single trip. For instance, you can enjoy a one-day sightseeing tour of the city or participate in a group tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You could also visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum or the Metropolitan Museum of the Arts.
You may even want to see a Broadway show or go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Everyone should experience Times Square at least once – especially when the sun goes down and the entire street lights up before your very eyes. You cannot park an RV in city spaces for over 24 hours, but there are nearby RV parks that you can consider – such as the year-round RV camping at Camp Gateway in Brooklyn or Liberty Harbor RV Park in New Jersey.
Plan your adventure: New York City
Yellowstone National Park
WYOMING
You can spend countless hours traveling throughout Yellowstone National Park, enjoying and experiencing all that this amazing vacation spot has to offer. Perhaps you want to camp in the backcountry. On the other hand, seeing the Old Faithful geyser in person may be on your bucket list.
Regardless of your reason, you should add this national park to your bucket list of RV trips. The Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park in West Yellowstone, Montana, offers a variety of full hookup options—including sewer, water, and cable—in addition to 30-50 amp electric service. Its layout lets you enjoy views of the wooded areas and lakefront during your stay.
Plan your adventure: Yellowstone National Park
Mount Rainier
WASHINGTON STATE
Few peaks outside the Rocky Mountains have such a high peak as Mount Rainier. If you want high adventures, being 14,000 feet above sea level will fulfill that goal. For an extreme experience, you could even hike up the side of an active volcano during your stay.
There are no RV camping sites available with hookups within this park. However, you can go to White River or Cougar Rock for an RV dry camping experience. It is best to use an off-site campground for your overall accommodations and visit Mount Rainier as a trip highlight.
Plan your adventure: Mount Rainier
Grand Canyon National Park
ARIZONA
Visiting the Grand Canyon is already on your bucket list. However, it should be near the top of that list! The South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park is easier to access and open year-round. With an average elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level, it is an unforgettable sight and experience.
Just wait until sunset to see the starry sky in a way you may never have seen before due to Arizona’s low light pollution rate. There are plenty of campgrounds and RV parks available, including the Mather Campground in Grand Canyon Village and the Zion River Resort in Virgin, Utah.
Plan your adventure: Grand Canyon National Park
New Orleans
LOUISIANA
Whether you want to have fun or learn a lot on your vacation, New Orleans is another great place to add to your bucket list. If you want a taste of the jazz-filled nightlife, head to the French Quarter or Bourbon Street. You can also enjoy a little art and culture at Jackson Square or the first-class architecture and history of the 18th-century St. Louis Cathedral.
Don’t forget about Mardi Gras each year in late February/early March. Perhaps scheduling your trip around when Mardi Gras starts will allow you to truly experience New Orleans at its peak. The French Quarter RV Resort is a popular choice for RV travelers, but the Pontchartrain Landing RV Park is another feasible option to consider as well.
Plan your adventure: New Orleans
The Kentucky Derby
KENTUCKY
The Kentucky Derby horse race is held on the first Saturday in May each year, ending the two-week Kentucky Derby Festival. For years, fancy hats and seersuckers have been worn to this race, making it a popular attraction and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people.
Perhaps you can show up to the Kentucky Derby in your own “derby outfit” to blend in and sip on a mint julep while watching the race. You could even head to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail when the race is over to spend some time at the local distilleries. The Derby Park Expo Five, Louisville South KOA, and the Trackside RV Park are just some available options for extended accommodations.
Plan your adventure: The Kentucky Derby
Nashville Music City
TENNESSEE
The city of Nashville is an attraction simply because of all the historical elements and entertaining attractions found within it. For instance, you can visit the Grand Ole Opry or Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum to taste music history.
While you are there, you could even see the Tennessee homes of several celebrities and country music stars, such as Toby Keith and Martina McBride.
Even a night trolley tour allows you to see the city illuminated after dark. The Safe Harbor RV Resort or Two Rivers RV Park has comfortable and spacious RV sites with first-class amenities and hookups.
Plan your adventure: Nashville Music City
Niagara Falls
NEW YORK
Have you ever seen waterfalls taller than 160 feet that flow more than 2.2 liters per second? If you have visited Niagara Falls, you can answer that question with a resounding “YES!” If that is not your answer, do yourself a favor and add this to your bucket list.
You may need a passport to travel, but it will be worth it to realize that Niagara Falls is essentially an international boundary that separates the United States from Canada. If you have seen it in daylight, then you will love to see it illuminated at night. The Niagara Falls State Park and the Branches of Niagara Campground & Resort are great choices for RV accommodations during your stay.
Plan your adventure: Niagara Falls
Joshua Tree National Park
CALIFORNIA
The Arch Rock Trail is still one of the most popular parts of the Joshua Tree National Park. It is only a half-mile hike, so you can get the fresh air and exercise you need without feeling exhausted and stuck out in the wilderness. Quite a few tourists enjoy taking pictures or selfies while standing in Arch Rock. However, there are many other rock formations that you can enjoy just as much (if not more) by taking the time to enjoy the scenic route of the entire trail. The Jumbo Rocks Campground and the Belle Campground are relatively close, so you have multiple options for RV parking accommodations.
Plan your adventure: Joshua Tree National Park
Dollywood
TENNESSEE
Whether or not you’re a fan of Dolly Parton, a visit to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a must. Even if you’re passing through on your RV road trip, Dollywood’s diverse range of attractions, which are a testament to its popularity among tourists and family vacationers, will pique your interest. From entertaining dinner shows and thrilling amusement parks to engaging tours and luxurious resorts, Dollywood has something for everyone.
There is no RV park in Dollywood, but there are plenty of options nearby—such as Up the Creek RV Camp, which has full hookups, 30/50 amp power, and a picnic table at each campsite.
Plan your adventure: Dollywood
St. Augustine
FLORIDA
St. Augustine is over 450 years old, making it the oldest town in the United States. If you want to focus on history, you can explore the Spanish colonial architecture throughout the city. On the other hand, if you spend quality time on the water, you can try deep-sea fishing.
The nightlife is also ready and waiting for you, with many nightclubs and restaurants available. The Anastasia State Park is a popular place for RV travelers and road trip vacationers to stay when they visit this city. It would help to consider the North Beach Camp Resort and the Compass RV Resort.
Plan your adventure: St. Augustine
Rocky Mountain National Park
COLORADO
Adding Colorado to your bucket list of RV vacation ideas is nearly impossible without writing down Rocky Mountain National Park. As you head towards the Bear Lake Trailhead, you can enjoy the abundance of lily pads in Nymph Lake.
Adventurous retirees may enjoy a little quality time whitewater rafting during their stay. If you simply want to enjoy the sights and shops, Downtown Estes Park is a perfect location to consider. Another perk is that this national park comes with its own RV campground accommodations—especially within the Manor RV Park.
Plan your adventure: Rocky Mountain National Park
Key West’s Mallory Square Dock
FLORIDA
You have seen a sunset when you have seen the sunset at Key West. Key West’s Mallory Square Dock is the perfect place to experience it firsthand. Crowds of people will join you, but it is also the central location of several festivities. You never know which street artist, conch vendor, acrobat, or even professional clown you will run into while you are there. It will also allow you to enjoy all Florida offers – perhaps even looking for your next retirement home.
Consider Boyd’s Key West Campground when you are ready to find a campground or RV park. It offers deluxe waterfront views, excellent cell reception, and a short drive away from restaurants, shops, and museums to enhance the excitement of your trip.
Plan your adventure: Mount Rainier
Glacier National Park
MONTANA
You may need to spend more time driving on the road than you originally planned, but a trip to Glacier National Park is worth the trip. The park is captivating and fantastic to witness firsthand. Historically, it is a cornerstone of the first international peace park worldwide – helping to celebrate the peace and friendship between the U.S. and Canada.
Your jaw will likely drop when you see the Going-to-the-Sun Road for the first time and look over the 50 miles of glaciers, landscapes, and cascading waterfalls along the way. Depending on the length of your RV, you may need to park at the entrance.
Plan your adventure: Grand Canyon National Park
Smithsonian Museums
WASHINGTON DC
You do not need to be a history fanatic to put the Smithsonian Museums on your bucket list of RV road trips. The fact that there are 11 different museums and galleries within the Smithsonian area alone is a significant selling point. From American history and air & space to the Archives of American Art and African-American history, there are so many gems you can dig up during a single trip to the Smithsonian.
For a hassle-free visit to the Smithsonian, we recommend parking your RV or travel trailer as close to Washington DC as possible and then taking the metro to the museum. Cherry Hill Park, the closest campground to Washington DC, offers full hook-up sites all year round, making it a convenient and comfortable base for your visit.
Plan your adventure: Smithsonian Museums
Hoover Dam
NEVADA
You may not be interested in seeing the Hoover Dam. However, once you stand in front of the highest concrete arch dam in the country, you will change your mind. Nearly 7 million people visit the Hoover Dam each year. In addition to its height of 726’, this amazing tourist attraction contains 4.4 million cubic yards of concrete and generates 2,080 megawatts of power with its 17 hydraulic turbines.
If you want an amenity-filled campground where you can park your RV, consider Lake Mead RV Village or the Boulder Beach Campground.
Plan your adventure: Hoover Dam
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
SOUTH DAKOTA
You may have seen Mount Rushmore on TV or in the history textbooks. However, those images pale in comparison to the real-life experience. There is so much history wrapped up in this massive sculpture. For instance, the artist Gutzon Borglum died seven months before it was completed, but his son finished it. The presidential faces are 60’ high, and dynamite was used to remove 90 percent of the granite from their rock faces.
The Rushmore Shadows RV Resort is only 20 minutes away. This pet-friendly campground includes a convenience store, playground, restaurant, bar, and the Coon Hollow Trailhead.
Plan your adventure: Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Garden of the gods
COLORADO
A highlight of Colorado Springs is known as the Garden of the gods. In addition to its awe-inspiring beauty and captivating appeal, you can turn your visit into an adventure. For instance, you can participate in a Jeep tour that will take you through the beautiful sandstone rock formations. You could even climb or hike within the Garden of the gods to literally live life on the edge. Even during the winter months, the snow-capped peaks in this area are still worth the trip.
This natural attraction also has its own RV resort with comfortable accommodations. You could also stay at Barr Camp, Lone Duck Campground, or Fountain Creek RV Park.
Plan your adventure: Garden of the gods
Crater Lake National Park
OREGON
Nearly 500,000 people travel to the Crater Lake National Park annually. If you genuinely want to see the marvelous side of this tourist site, you must go during the 3-4 months when there is no snow on the ground. The park has old-growth forests, volcano remnants, and evergreen trees. However, the main attraction is Crater Lake – the deepest lake in the U.S. You can also get a good look at Phantom Ship, an ancient rock formation in the middle of the lake that stands 170 feet above the water.
The park also has two separate campground areas: Mazama and Lost Creek. RVs are only allowed at the Mazama campground, while Lost Creek is a tent-only campground.
Plan your adventure: Crater Lake National Park
Grand Teton National Park
WYOMING
The Grand Teton National Park is one of Wyoming’s most popular tourist sites. You will be able to explore a variety of forest communities within the same area. For instance, there is an abundance of migratory bird species that fill this park throughout the year. You may travel there inside your RV or travel trailer, but you will spend most of your time exploring the great outdoors there.
There are several first-class RV parks and campgrounds in the area that you can choose from when you arrive – including Teton Peaks Lodge & RV and Squirrel Meadows Guard Station.
Plan your adventure: Grand Teton National Park
Huntington Beach State Park
SOUTH CAROLINA
If you would rather spend quality time post-retirement with a fantastic view of Myrtle Beach, then Huntington Beach State Park is a beautiful stop to add to your list of options. The secluded sandy beaches allow you privacy and peace that you will not necessarily find at busier beaches throughout the country. You could even enjoy a little surf fishing or bird watching to add to the tranquility of the overall experience.
There are quite a few RV parks and campgrounds to choose from, such as Cypress Camping Resort, Briarcliff RV Resort, and Carolina Pines RV Resort.
Plan your adventure: Huntington Beach State Park
Acadia National Park
MAINE
One of the most popular national parks in the country is Acadia National Park. If you enjoy taking long hikes or nature walks, it should be at the top of your list. Keep in mind that Cadillac Mountain—which is featured within the Acadia National Park—is the tallest mountain on the coast. The diverse collection of coastal trails will keep you busy and may even convince you to make a few repeat trips in the future.
For a memorable group camping experience, Acadia National Park offers three excellent campgrounds: Schoodic Woods, Blackwoods, and Seawall. Each campground has its unique charm, ensuring a delightful stay amidst nature.
Plan your adventure: Acadia National Park
Golden Gate Bridge
CALIFORNIA
Visiting a bridge may not be that exciting. However, the people who agree with that misconception usually have yet to see or drive across the Golden Gate Bridge. The team that built the bridge first broke ground in January of 1933 after an overflow of setbacks and hurdles.
The two primary cables on the bridge are the visual highlights of this masterpiece – especially since they are more than 7,650 feet long and help more than 27,500 parallel wires stay connected. Remember to park at the Northeast Side Parking Lot to walk across the bridge. Otherwise, you can enjoy the scenic drive across and then head for the Golden Gate Trailer Park or Marin Park for overnight accommodations.
Plan your adventure: Golden Gate Bridge
Death Valley Super Bloom
CALIFORNIA
The name “Death Valley” truly fits most of California’s areas. However, a “super bloom” occurs at least once every decade when a beautiful shower of pink, purple, and yellow wildflowers emerges from nowhere. A photograph does not do this marvel any justice; it must be experienced firsthand. During your retirement years, you can see it for yourself and enjoy the ambiance of the mountainscape.
You can camp within the Death Valley National Park or even the Furnace Creek Campground for a cozy and comfortable place to spend the night.
Plan your adventure: Death Valley Super Bloom
Napa Valley
CALIFORNIA
The life of a retiree is further enhanced with an occasional glass of fantastic wine. There are few places in the U.S. that you can visit for this delicious glass, and none is better than Napa Valley. Studies show that Napa Valley welcomed over 3.8 million visitors in 2018 alone. Since there are more than 400 wineries throughout Napa County, you have your pick of the winery (or wineries) you want to tour.
You will also enjoy taking the scenic route in your RV or travel trailer to enjoy the natural beauty of the vineyards and other marvelous sights. Once you call it a night, you can go to the Napa Valley Expo RV Park for full access to water & sewer hookups and a comfortable campground site.
Plan your adventure: Napa Valley
NASCAR at Talladega Superspeedway
ALABAMA
Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or just curious about the sport, a trip to the Talladega Superspeedway is an experience that will ignite your senses. Picture yourself amidst a roaring crowd of tens of thousands, the thunderous engines, and the adrenaline-pumping race. It’s an event that should be on every travel enthusiast’s bucket list. And the best part? You can extend your stay and explore the plethora of activities, attractions, and events in the area.
North Park is not just a place to park your RV for extended stays; it’s a haven of comfort and coziness. With premium amenities that will make you feel right at home, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a thrilling day at the Talladega Superspeedway.
Plan your adventure: NASCAR at Talladega Superspeedway
Colonial Williamsburg
VIRGINIA
Colonial Williamsburg has more than enough history interwoven within It to please any history buff or RV vacationer for many years. Within the Historic Williamsburg area, you are just a short drive away from popular tourist attractions such as Yorktown and Jamestown. You can also enjoy shopping for quality deals at the Prime Outlets or having plenty of fun at either of the nine golf courses available throughout the city.
The American Heritage RV Park features more than 70 acres of woodlands and lush green meadows, which you can enjoy during your retirement travels. Each campsite offers RV travelers full hookups with 30-amp and 50-amp service options.
Plan your adventure: Colonial Williamsburg
Redwood National Park
CALIFORNIA
One of the most humbling experiences you could ever have in nature is at the Redwood National Park. Coast redwood trees can potentially grow up to 300’ in height and live for 2,000 years. Standing among this natural beauty and superiority will make anyone realize how small they are in the grand scheme. Hikers and bikers love this park for its 200 miles of available trails and paths.
There is a campsite within the park for RVs, travel trailers, and tents. However, consider the Elk Country RV Resort & Campground or the Redwood Meadows RV Resort.
Plan your adventure: Redwood National Park
Las Vegas Strip
NEVADA
Nearly 500,000 people travel to the Crater Lake National Park annually. If you genuinely want to see the marvelous side of this tourist site, you must go during the 3-4 months when there is no snow on the ground. The park has old-growth forests, volcano remnants, and evergreen trees. However, the main attraction is Crater Lake – the deepest lake in the U.S. You can also get a good look at Phantom Ship, an ancient rock formation in the middle of the lake that stands 170 feet above the water.
The park also has two separate campground areas: Mazama and Lost Creek. RVs are only allowed at the Mazama campground, while Lost Creek is a tent-only campground.
Plan your adventure: Las Vegas Strip
Freedom Trail
MASSACHUSETTS
The Freedom Trail in Boston is one of the country’s popular collections of historical landmarks. Within a two-mile walk marked with a red brick road, you can pass such landmarks as Paul Revere’s home, the Old State House, the Old North Church, the Old South Meeting House, and the site of the Boston Massacre.
The complete walking trail covers 16 locations filled with historical significance. Over 3 million people take this self-guided tour each year, which takes an average of 90 minutes to complete but can easily be extended into an all-day affair.
You can choose from several campgrounds and RV parks near Freedom Trail, including the Cape Anne Campsite and Winter Island Park Campground.
Plan your adventure: Freedom Trail
Denali National Park & Preserve
ALASKA
If you want a captivating view of a landscape and a beautiful body of water, then the Wonder Lake at Denali National Park & Preserve should be on your bucket list. You can also visit the Sony Hill Overpass to see herds of caribou roaming about or Sable Pass to see a grizzly bear from a safe distance.
There are also plenty of hiking trails and nature walks that you can enjoy during your stay – such as the Horseshoe Lake Trail or the Taiga Loop Trail.
The park has RV campgrounds, but electrical and water hookups are not included. It is also not a practical option for RVs longer than 40 feet.
Plan your adventure: Denali National Park & Preserve
Jack Daniel’s Distillery
TENNESSEE
If you love drinking whiskey, consider adding Jack Daniel’s Distillery to your bucket list. The Dry County tour focuses on the educational side of the whiskey-making process, but other tour options include whiskey samples. You could upgrade to the “Taste of Lynchburg” package, which provides a two-course meal and tour.
You will also receive a commemorative photo of your group as a souvenir. The distillery is located nearly 2 hours from Hohenwald’s Oliver Travel Trailers factory, where you can stop for a tour.
You can reserve a campsite at the Tim Ford State Park campgrounds if you need overnight accommodations.
Plan your adventure: Jack Daniel’s Distillery
Gulf of Mexico
FLORIDA
There is so much that a retiree can do during an RV road trip in Florida near the Gulf of Mexico. For instance, you could cross deep-sea fishing off your bucket list by spending an afternoon with experienced guides on a chartered boat.
If you are a dolphin lover, you should sign up for the Dolphin Encounter Tours, which explore different parts of the Gulf as well. These tours allow you to see the porpoises dance through this massive body of water.
There are also plenty of RV parks and campgrounds that will keep you comfortable during your stay near the Gulf of Mexico – including Grayton Beach and Henderson Beach State Parks.
Plan your adventure: Gulf of Mexico
Stone Mountain Park
GEORGIA
The biggest highlight of Stone Mountain Park that attracts tourists throughout the year is the Confederate Memorial Carving of Jefferson Davis, General Robert E. Lee, and General Thomas Jackson. The top of the mountain is 825’ high and provides visitors with a captivating view of Atlanta.
There are also many activities and attractions you can enjoy while you are there – such as the Summit Skyride, Quarry Exhibit, and Songbird Habitat.
The park also offers comfortable accommodations and amenities for vacationers and RV travelers, including fire rings, clean showers, picnic tables, and laundry facilities.
Plan your adventure: Stone Mountain Park
Meteor Crater
ARIZONA
The Meteor Crater is a stunning sight – especially when you do the math. The crater is 550’ deep, has a 1-mile diameter, and a circumference of 2.4 miles. This tourist venue has educational and entertaining activities to keep you busy and engaged during your stay. For instance, you can enjoy the 4D experience room, the wide-screen movie theater, or outdoor observation trailers.
The Meteor Crater RV Park has more than 70 RV sites available, all with all the necessary amenities—such as a full laundry facility, showers, Wi-Fi Internet access, and a convenience store. If you have time, you can also enjoy the starry sky when the sun goes down.
Plan your adventure: Meteor Crater
Palace of Fine Arts
CALIFORNIA
If you love architectural masterpieces, consider visiting the Palace of Fine Arts on your RV vacation stops bucket list. This place was over 100 years ago and was inspired by Roman and Greek architecture. Regardless of the vantage point, it is a work of art to examine closely.
During the day, you can enjoy standing at the foot of the lagoon or near the giant pillars. Come back at night for a different perspective when the Palace of Fine Arts is fully illuminated.
The San Francisco RV Resort has over 160 sites with beautiful views for RV travelers. Most sites have full hookups unless you decide to stay by the ocean.
Plan your adventure: Palace of Fine Arts
White Sands National Monument
NEW MEXICO
Known as the largest gypsum dune field in the world, the White Sands National Monument is something you must see to believe or even try to describe in words. The 8-mile Dunes Drive will take you from the visitor center to the field center.
There are plenty of fun activities to keep you busy, including sand play, sunset tours, and moonlight hikes. During your stay, you may even see an African Oryx roaming the dunes.
To enjoy a backcountry camping experience, you should make a reservation at the Primitive Backcountry Campsites.
Plan your adventure: White Sands National Monument
San Antonio Missions
TEXAS
Another historical experience to add to your bucket list of RV road trips is the Missions in San Antonio, such as Mission San Jose or Mission Concepcion. Six different missions will keep you busy as you explore the broad scope of the National Historical Park. Whether you enjoy studying history or want to marvel at architecture, there is something enjoyable here for almost everyone who visits.
If you need a campground or RV park for nightly accommodations, you should consider reserving a spot at Hidden Valley RV Park. This park is open all year long and offers 30/50 amp service at full hookup sites, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of pet-friendly walking roads.
Plan your adventure: San Antonio Missions
City of Asheville
NORTH CAROLINA
Another city filled with engaging experiences is Asheville, North Carolina. For instance, you can visit and take a tour of the Biltmore House—a 175,000 sq. ft. mansion with 33 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. During the spring and summer months, you will take many pictures when you see the diverse collection of greenery at the North Carolina Arboretum or enjoy a scenic whitewater paddling session down the French Broad.
The Asheville Bear Creek RV Park offers free Wi-Fi, a heated pool, and other common amenities. However, it is only one of the many different RV parks and campgrounds available to Asheville visitors throughout the year.
Plan your adventure: City of Asheville
Boundary Waters
MINNESOTA
If you plan to visit the northeastern region of Minnesota, consider stopping at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Over 1,200 miles of canoe routes will keep you busy on the water. For those who prefer to enjoy quality time on land, though, 12 unique hiking trails are worth the trip.
RVs and travel trailers are widely available, and more than 2,000 designated campsites are available. Remember, more than 250 backcountry campsites outside the wilderness area offer camping, fishing, and over 1,500 miles of canoe routes to enjoy.
Plan your adventure: Boundary Waters
Northern Lights of Fairbanks
ALASKA
The culinary side of Juneau, Alaska, has made it a popular magnet for tourists in recent years. However, the Northern Lights (also referred to as the “aurora borealis”) in Fairbanks remains one of the state’s most popular bucket list items. The key is to travel to Fairbanks, Alaska, during the winter season (November-April). It is always dark during this season, so you will have total exposure to the Northern Lights during your trip.
You can reserve accommodations for your RV at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground or even the Chena River Wayside.
Plan your adventure: Northern Lights of Fairbanks
Fantastic Caverns
MISSOURI
If you are trying to think of something fun to do with your RV in Missouri, then you are obviously not thinking about the Fantastic Caverns. This ride-thru cave has been a major attraction in Springfield, Missouri, for decades. You will take a 55-minute cave tour that drives along a one-mile route and will give you a front-row seat to view some of the most captivating cave formations in the entire country.
If you need a place to camp overnight or park your RV, head over to Cooks RV Motor Park or even the Paradise in the Woods RV Park. You will have full access to hookups and pull-up/back-in options for your RV or travel trailer.
Plan your adventure: Fantastic Caverns
Taughannock Falls State Park
NEW YORK
New York may not be the perfect state for RV travel. However, once you reach the Taughannock Falls State Park, you will realize why that is a misconception. If you travel here during the summer, you can enjoy the outdoor concert series hosted by the park. For a jaw-dropping experience, take a hike to see the ancient gorge and captivating waterfalls.
Pet lovers enjoy this state park as a campground because a two-pet maximum is enforced. Regardless of the season, there are a host of activities to stay involved, including cross-country skiing and hiking trails.
Plan your adventure: Taughannock Falls State Park
National Corvette Museum
KENTUCKY
A popular feature of Bowling Green, Kentucky, is undoubtedly the National Corvette Museum. This facility, which first opened in 1994 and is located on a 55-acre campus, is designed for classic car fans and history buffs. It is highly recommended that you reserve at least 1-2 hours to enjoy the museum and its overall ambiance.
When planning your RV road trip, though, remember that this museum does not allow pets unless they are ADA-defined service animals.
Bowling Green has several campgrounds and RV parks that you can choose from – including the Beech Bend Campground or the Bowling Green KOA Holiday RV Park.
Plan your adventure: National Corvette Museum
Wright Brothers National Memorial
NORTH CAROLINA
The Wright Brothers Memorial was designed to recognize and honor the location of the Wright Brothers’ first official flight in 1903. It became the first federal park to include a permanent public structure. It is a visual work of art—especially considering that the 60-foot granite monument is hollow with a granite floor. Quite a few celebrities have visited this national memorial over the years, so you would be adding your name to an elite list of stars by visiting it yourself.
The OBX Campground and Joe & Kay’s Campground are two local options to consider when selecting a place to spend the night.
Plan your adventure: Wright Brothers National Memorial
Historic Route 66
ILLINOIS
You may have heard the song about Route 66 or even seen it featured in movies. However, until you and your RV meet this iconic drive in person, you cannot even imagine the full scope of this experience. Keep in mind that Route 66 stretches from Illinois to California, covering over 2,450 miles of highway.
If you want to learn even more about this amazing stretch, feel free to visit the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac during your stay.
There are plenty of RV parks and campgrounds that you will pass along the way – such as the Route 66 RV Resort in Albuquerque.
Plan your adventure: Historic Route 66
Cathedral Gorge State Park
NEVADA
Nevada is full of artificial attractions, especially considering all that “The Strip” in Las Vegas has to offer. If you are interested in natural attractions, visit Cathedral Gorge State Park. You will get a front-row seat to explore unique yet dramatic patterns in the natural formations caused by years of erosion. The natural landscapes make the trip worthwhile for most outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
There are more than enough opportunities to get in a good workout – especially considering the 4-mile walking trail or the easy access to local caves.
There is also a limited quantity of campground sites with water and electric hookups for visitors.
Plan your adventure: Cathedral Gorge State Park
Cody Night Rodeo
WYOMING
This rodeo capital of the world is a magnet for cowboys, cowgirls, and rodeo fans around the globe. There is a rodeo every summer night in Cody, Wyoming—a tradition kept up for over 75 years. Perhaps you have never been to a rodeo and would like to scratch it off your bucket list. On the other hand, you may have been to other rodeos but never a Cody Night special.
Either way, it is highly recommended that you add this trip to your bucket list of upcoming RV vacations. When all is said and done, you can at least say that you experienced it for yourself.
Plan your adventure: Cody Night Rodeo
Trace State Park
MISSISSIPPI
If you want to escape city life’s noise and chaos, consider opting for the quiet yet tranquil experience of the Trace State Park. Quite a few tourists and tourism groups agree that this state park is a perfect choice for the naturalist traveler. You can enjoy the seemingly endless miles of scenic trails for hiking or the captivating hardwood forests.
As a bonus, you could even visit Tupelo if you are an Elvis Presley fan since that was the legend’s birthplace. Pets are not allowed, so keep that in mind before traveling with your canine or feline companions.
Plan your adventure: Trace State Park