Summer is the perfect time to hit the open road, fire up the RV, and explore the beauty and diversity of the American landscape. Whether you’re craving mountain escapes, coastal highways, or small-town charm, there’s a route or destination that’s perfect for your style of adventure. If you're planning your next big getaway, here are some of the best RV trips to take this summer.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
There are few drives as iconic as California’s Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Stretching from San Diego to San Francisco (and beyond), this coastal road offers dramatic ocean views, charming beach towns, and some of the most scenic campgrounds on the West Coast.
Must-see stops:
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Big Sur for towering cliffs and redwoods
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Monterey for marine life and quaint shops
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Santa Barbara for beach vibes and wine tasting
RV travelers will find plenty of campgrounds with ocean views, but book early—this route is popular for a reason.
2. The Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee & North Carolina)
If you’re looking for cooler mountain air, lush forests, and misty views, head to the Great Smoky Mountains. As the most visited national park in the U.S., this area offers endless hiking trails, scenic drives, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings.
Great RV stops include:
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Cades Cove Campground
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Smokemont Campground
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Riverfront private RV parks in Gatlinburg or Townsend
It’s ideal for nature lovers and families who want a mix of outdoor adventure and Southern hospitality.
3. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
If you want to escape the heat and crowds, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) is a hidden gem. Think pristine lakes, cool breezes, pine forests, and small towns that feel frozen in time.
Top attractions:
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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
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Tahquamenon Falls State Park
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Mackinac Island (no cars allowed—take a ferry and bike around!)
Lake Superior’s shoreline offers excellent RV camping options with cool evenings, starry skies, and the kind of peacefulness you can't find in big cities.
4. Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks
Utah is home to five jaw-dropping national parks, all within a few hours of each other—perfect for an epic RV road trip.
The Mighty Five includes:
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Arches
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Canyonlands
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Capitol Reef
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Bryce Canyon
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Zion
Each park has its own distinct scenery, from massive rock arches to narrow canyons and hoodoo-filled cliffs. Many parks offer RV-accessible campgrounds, but be prepared for desert heat—start hikes early and stay hydrated.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the Appalachian Highlands and is filled with overlooks, historic sites, and roadside charm.
Highlights:
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Shenandoah National Park
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Linville Falls
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Asheville, NC (for breweries, art, and the Biltmore Estate)
RV travelers love this route for its slow pace, sweeping views, and peaceful campgrounds nestled in the mountains.
6. Oregon Loop – Coast, Crater Lake & Cascades
Start your Oregon adventure along the coast, wind your way through the forests and dunes, and then head inland to Crater Lake National Park before looping back via the Cascade Range.
Top stops:
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Cannon Beach and the Oregon Dunes
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Crater Lake (America’s deepest lake)
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Bend, OR for craft beer and high desert fun
This route offers a little bit of everything—cool coastal breezes, alpine views, and funky towns perfect for refueling and exploring.
7. Glacier National Park (Montana)
If you want a truly awe-inspiring experience, Glacier National Park delivers big views and wild beauty.
Why go in summer?
Because the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road only opens in full during the warmer months—and it's a bucket-list drive for RVers. Just be sure to check size restrictions and book in advance, as RV space is limited in the park.
Campgrounds fill up fast, but nearby RV parks in towns like West Glacier and Columbia Falls make it easy to enjoy the area with modern hookups.
Tips for a Smooth RV Summer Trip
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Plan your route ahead of time – Summer is busy, so having a rough itinerary (with flexibility) helps.
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Reserve campsites early – Especially in national parks and along scenic highways.
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Pack for the season – Include layers, sun protection, and backup power/AC options for hot nights.
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Practice camp etiquette – Respect quiet hours, clean up after yourself, and be a good neighbor.
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Stay cool and hydrated – Especially in desert regions and high-altitude areas.
Hit the Road and Make Summer Memories
There’s something timeless about summer RV trips—the freedom to move at your own pace, discover hidden corners of the country, and wake up each day with a new view outside your window.
From coastal drives and desert wonders to mountain escapes and lakeside serenity, the road is calling. Choose a route, stock the fridge, and roll into summer adventure.
Happy travels—and don’t forget the marshmallows.