Tag: Cumberland Island National Seashore

10 Amazing Places to RV in September 2026

September is made for RV travel. Discover 10 amazing places to visit this month, from New England’s fall foliage and Louisiana’s Cajun Coast to Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 and Newport’s Wine & Food Festival.

Is not life a hundred times too short for us to bore ourselves?

—Friedrich Nietzsche

In his well-known book “Beyond Good and Evil” in which the above quote appears, German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche explored the idea of morality in a changing society.

Nietzsche rejected what he perceived as false morals—values that benefitted the few while harming the majority. He pushed instead for applying free will to our lives and being honest about our motivations. To follow a predetermined set of rules, he argues, is often against our nature, and undercuts the joy of living.

Nietzsche’s words invite us to reevaluate our obligations, nudging us toward the things that excite and inspire us in life.

A September invitation to live a little

Life is too short to keep putting off the things that inspire us

And perhaps that is exactly what September travel is about. After the heat and crowds of summer, the road begins to open up again, offering cooler mornings, changing landscapes, festivals, wildlife, and places that invite us to slow down and stay awhile.

We don’t need another list of places we should visit; we need destinations that remind us why we travel in the first place. So, with Nietzsche’s challenge in mind, here are 10 places worth pointing the RV toward this September—not because you have to go but because life is too short to keep putting off the places that make you curious.

Why September?

When the road opens up again

September may be one of the best months of the year to point the RV toward somewhere new. Summer’s heat begins to loosen its grip, the crowds thin, and destinations from the East Coast to the Rockies begin their gradual transition toward fall. Just as important, September brings something that doesn’t appear on a weather chart: festivals, local events, harvest traditions, and other experiences that give us a reason to stop rather than simply pass through.

For RVers, that combination is hard to beat. The road is still wide open but the frantic pace of summer has begun to fade. And that makes September a perfect time to go looking for something a little different—places and experiences that remind us there is still plenty of life left to live.

Explore more monthly RV travel ideas

Planning an RV trip for another month? Check out my recommendations for the best places to travel in July and August or revisit my September 2025 and October 2025 recommendations for even more ideas for the road ahead.

Helen, Georgia, embraces its Bavarian heritage with alpine-style buildings nestled in the North Georgia mountains. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Helen’s Oktoberfest

Where Georgia goes Bavarian

Tucked into the North Georgia mountains, Helen looks like a small Bavarian village transplanted to the American South. Half-timbered buildings, German restaurants and shops, and the Chattahoochee River give the town a distinctive character. But each fall, Helen turns that Bavarian theme into one of the country’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebrations.

Helen’s Oktoberfest has been a tradition for more than 50 years, filling the town with German music, polka dancing, traditional food, and plenty of festive spirit. The 2026 celebration begins with a parade on September 12 and continues Thursday through Sunday throughout September. For RVers, September offers a particularly good combination: cooler mountain temperatures, fewer crowds than October’s daily festivities, and an opportunity to explore the surrounding North Georgia countryside.

RV tip

  • Reserve your campsite early, especially for weekends.
  • Consider a weekday visit for a more relaxed experience.
  • Leave time to explore Helen’s surrounding mountain roads, waterfalls, and scenery.
Fresh Louisiana shrimp—an essential taste of the Cajun Coast and a highlight of Morgan City’s annual celebration. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Taste the Cajun Coast

Where shrimp, oil, and Louisiana culture meet

Morgan City sits along the Atchafalaya River Basin where Louisiana’s seafood and oil industries have shaped the character of the community. Each September, the city celebrates that heritage with the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival, now in its 91st year.

Held September 3–7, 2026, the five-day celebration combines Cajun culture with live music, arts and crafts, children’s activities, three parades, fireworks on the river, and the moving Blessing of the Fleet. Historic events and Mass in the Park connect the celebration to the community and the industries that have sustained it. For RVers, it’s a chance to experience a side of Louisiana that goes well beyond the usual tourist destinations.

RV tip

  • Reserve your RV site early for festival weekend.
  • Allow time to explore the Atchafalaya region beyond Morgan City.
  • Come hungry. Seafood is part of the experience.
Historic Savannah, where moss-draped live oaks and graceful architecture create the unmistakable charm of Georgia’s oldest city. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Savannah, Georgia

Southern charm beneath a canopy of Spanish moss

Savannah’s historic streets, shaded squares, and Spanish-moss-draped live oaks make it one of the South’s most atmospheric cities. While September won’t bring colorful fall foliage, it does bring a welcome break from the worst of summer’s heat and humidity. It’s a good month to slow down and experience Savannah on foot, from its historic district to its riverfront and leafy neighborhoods.

Leave time for some of Savannah’s enduring favorites. Leopold’s Ice Cream has been serving its celebrated ice cream since 1919 and remains a local institution. September’s more forgiving weather also makes it easier to explore the city and surrounding Lowcountry without fighting summer’s crowds and heat.

RV tip

  • Stay at an RV park outside the historic district and use local transportation to explore downtown.
  • Start your sightseeing early while temperatures are cooler.
  • Save room for ice cream at Leopold’s.
Stowe Community Church framed by the brilliant colors of autumn, capturing the timeless charm of Vermont’s Green Mountains. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Stowe, Vermont

Where autumn begins to paint the mountains

Stowe sits at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, along Route 100, one of New England’s classic fall drives. September marks the beginning of Vermont’s celebrated leaf-peeping season while hiking, fishing, and paddling offer plenty of reasons to linger before winter arrives.

The changing foliage is the star attraction but Stowe has plenty to keep you busy between scenic drives. Hike to the aptly named Horrid Observation Site for sweeping views of the Champlain Valley, wander through Percy Farm Corn Maze, or visit the Trapp Family Lodge where Vermont meets an enduring piece of Austrian heritage.

RV tip

  • September is the beginning of leaf season, so reserve your campsite early.
  • Allow extra time for Route 100—you’ll want to stop often.
  • Check campground access and site length if traveling with a larger RV.
Woodstock, New York, a longtime artists’ community where bohemian character and Catskill charm meet. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Woodstock, New York

Where music history meets Catskill autumn

Woodstock may be forever associated with the legendary 1969 music festival but the festival actually took place about 1½ hours away in Bethel. Woodstock got the name anyway and over the decades the Catskills town has developed its own bohemian identity with galleries, independent shops, and a thriving arts scene.

September is also when the Catskills begin their transition toward fall with peak foliage generally arriving from late September into early October. That makes this a particularly rewarding destination for an RV road trip. Wander Tinker Street, Woodstock’s lively main street, then take to the surrounding roads as the mountains begin their annual display of color.

RV tip

  • Late September weekends can be busy, so reserve ahead.
  • Allow extra driving time for scenic Catskill roads.
  • Don’t confuse Woodstock with Bethel when planning your visit.
Sand sledding across the wind-sculpted dunes of Monahans Sandhills State Park in West Texas. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Monahans Sandhills State Park

Where Texas feels a little like the Sahara

Four thousand acres of wind-sculpted dunes make Monahans Sandhills State Park one of the most unexpected landscapes in Texas. The rolling sand is dotted with hardy Harvard oaks whose tiny above-ground growth hides root systems that can reach 90 feet deep. Visitors can explore the dunes, visit the interpretive center and museum, picnic, camp, or try the park’s most popular pastime—sand surfing.

September brings a welcome break from the worst of West Texas’ summer heat, making it a good time to experience this remarkable landscape. For RVers, the park also offers the chance to camp right in the midst of a landscape that feels far removed from the highways and towns of West Texas.

RV tip

  • Bring plenty of water and sun protection; the dunes offer little shade.
  • Check RV site availability and hookups before arriving.
  • Bring or rent a sand disk and try your hand at sand surfing.
Wild horses roam freely across the beaches and maritime forests of Cumberland Island National Seashore. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Cumberland Island, Georgia

Wild horses, empty beaches, and a forgotten story

Cumberland Island National Seashore is one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the world where wild beaches, maritime forests, and free-ranging horses create a rare sense of wilderness. History adds another layer, most dramatically at the ruins of Dungeness, the Carnegies’ extravagant 59-room Queen Anne-style mansion. Its ruins tell a fascinating story of wealth, privilege, hardship, and sacrifice.

September is a good time to experience Cumberland Island as the intense summer heat begins to ease. The island is accessible only by ferry or private boat, so your RV becomes the comfortable basecamp on the mainland while you spend a day—or longer—exploring on foot or bicycle. Come for the solitude and scenery but stay for the stories.

RV tip

  • Reserve ferry tickets well in advance.
  • Leave the RV on the mainland; no private vehicles are allowed on the island.
  • Bring water, food, and comfortable walking shoes for a full day of exploration.
Hoover Dam towers above the Colorado River, a remarkable feat of engineering that transformed the Southwest. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Hoover Dam

Where human ambition meets the Colorado River

Straddling the Arizona-Nevada border, Hoover Dam remains one of America’s great engineering achievements. Completed in 1935 after five years of construction, the massive concrete dam tamed the Colorado River, providing water, flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power while creating Lake Mead.

September is a good time to visit because the brutal summer heat of the Mojave begins to ease, making it more comfortable to explore the dam and surrounding landscape. For RVers, Hoover Dam also makes an interesting stop between destinations with spectacular views of the Colorado River, Lake Mead, and the rugged desert surrounding them.

RV tip

  • Check current RV parking restrictions before arriving.
  • Visit early in the day to beat the heat and crowds.
  • Allow time for the scenic drive across the dam and surrounding viewpoints.
Driving Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 through a spectacular landscape of red-rock cliffs, high plateaus, and open desert. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12

One road, a thousand reasons to stop

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is one of America’s great road trips, threading through a spectacular landscape of red-rock cliffs, high plateaus, forests, and wide-open desert. Connecting Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef country, the route delivers extraordinary scenery mile after mile with small communities such as Boulder providing a glimpse of authentic rural Utah along the way.

September may be the perfect time to drive it. Summer’s heat is fading, the high country begins hinting at fall, and the cooler temperatures make hiking and exploring far more enjoyable. For RVers, the beauty is in slowing down—camp in a state park, pull off at a scenic overlook, and let the road dictate the pace rather than rushing to the next destination.

RV tip

  • Allow at least two or three days rather than treating Byway 12 as a drive-through.
  • Check road grades, weather, and RV restrictions before traveling.
  • Reserve popular campgrounds ahead, especially in September.
Newport’s Cliff Walk follows the rocky shoreline, blending sweeping Atlantic views with the grandeur of Gilded Age mansions. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival

Gilded Age grandeur meets coastal New England

Newport, Rhode Island, is famous for its spectacular Gilded Age mansions where families such as the Vanderbilts once displayed extraordinary wealth. The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms offer a glimpse into that lavish era, while the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk adds a completely different experience with sweeping views of the Atlantic.

The 21st Annual Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, September 18–20, 2026, adds another reason to visit. Renowned chefs, wine tastings, live music, and entertainment turn a September weekend in Newport into a celebration of food and history. Cooler temperatures also make September an excellent time to explore the mansions, waterfront, and surrounding coastal roads.

RV tip

  • Reserve an RV site well ahead for festival weekend.
  • Plan your mansion visits in advance; you won’t see them all in one day.
  • Allow time for the Cliff Walk and Newport’s historic waterfront.

The road ahead

September reminds us to savor the journey

There is a certain magic in the air as August turns into September.

The season begins to ripen. Fruit trees grow heavy with red apples, leaves turn golden, and fields yield pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and peppers. Grape vines hang heavy with clusters of newly turned black and golden grapes. Everywhere, nature seems to be reminding us that change can be beautiful.

Perhaps that’s why September is such a wonderful month to travel. The road is still open, the days are comfortable, and there is always something new waiting around the next bend.

Enjoy your days and love your life, because life is a journey to be savored.

Grab the keys and let’s go RVing.

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Editor’s note

This article was originally published in August 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. Conditions, access, and amenities may change over time, so please verify current details before planning your trip.

To maintain transparency and editorial independence, this website contains no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just firsthand RV travel experiences and practical information for fellow travelers.

Cumberland Island: Wild Horses, Historic Estates, and Untamed Beauty

Just offshore from St. Marys lies Cumberland Island, a place where wild horses roam windswept beaches and history lingers among moss-draped ruins. It’s a barrier island that feels beautifully untamed—part wilderness, part living museum, and wholly unforgettable.

Step back in time on Cumberland Island where the sweeping legacy of the Carnegie family still shapes the landscape and imagination. As you wander past weathered ruins and quiet, long-abandoned settlements you can almost sense the lives that once unfolded here—planters and laborers, industrialists and islanders all woven into the island’s layered history.

Along the way, watch for the island’s wild, free-roaming horses, graceful reminders of Cumberland’s untamed spirit. With its wide, unspoiled beaches, whispering maritime forests, and deeply rooted past, Cumberland offers a rare chance to move between wilderness and history in a single, unforgettable landscape.

Yet Cumberland is more than a museum frozen in time—it is a living, breathing island shaped by tides, storms, and seasons. Salt air drifts through the trees, shorebirds patrol the surf, and quiet trails lead to hidden corners where nature and history intersect. Whether you arrive for a day trip or linger overnight, the island invites you to slow down, listen closely, and let its stories reveal themselves at their own pace.

This enduring legacy is beautifully captured in Cumberland Island Celebrates 50 Years as a National Seashore which honors the preservation of this coastal treasure. Furthermore, the vivid descriptions in Cumberland Island: Wild, Pristine Seashore highlights the raw, untouched beauty that continues to define the landscape today.

St, Marys waterfront dock © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ferry access and visitor tips

Getting there is part of the adventure

Cumberland Island remains wonderfully remote—accessible only by boat from the waterfront dock in downtown St. Marys. The 45-minute ferry ride is part of the experience, gliding across the Intracoastal Waterway as marsh grasses ripple in the breeze and pelicans skim the surface of the water. Along the way, you’ll catch glimpses of winding tidal creeks, wide saltwater horizons, and often dolphins, shorebirds, or rays—an enticing preview of what awaits on the island.

Operated by a concession service, the passenger ferry runs multiple departures throughout the day, year-round, making it simple to plan either a leisurely day trip or an immersive overnight stay on this wild, historic, and beautifully untamed barrier island.

Cumberland Island carefully limits visitation to no more than 300 people per day so advance reservations are essential if you hope to experience this wild landscape. Once ashore, you’ll quickly notice that the island moves at a different pace—there is no motorized transportation and most exploration on the southern end is done on foot along sandy roads and shaded trails.

A small number of bicycles can be brought over on the ferry for a modest fee, but otherwise, you should plan for a day of walking, wandering, and discovering. With cell service spotty at best the island offers a rare chance to truly unplug and settle into the rhythm of tides, trails, and untouched nature.

Feral horses on Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Wildlife on the island

Nature reigns here

Much of Cumberland Island’s open, grassy landscape is shaped by the movements and grazing of the feral horses and deer that roam freely across the island. The horses descended from domesticated animals abandoned here in the 1700s live entirely without human care, guided instead by the island’s seasons, weather, and resources. Their presence deepens Cumberland’s sense of wildness and reinforces its character as a landscape that still follows its own rhythms.

While hiking or biking, it’s important to observe them from a safe distance and give them the right of way allowing these iconic creatures to move undisturbed through their historic home.

The horses are most often seen grazing in sunlit fields, resting beneath live oaks, or silhouetted against the surf along the beach at low tide. Over generations, they have adapted to the island’s environment—enduring heat, storms, and the challenges of finding fresh water. Though they appear gentle they are still wild animals with unpredictable behavior especially around foals. Watching them from afar, moving slowly across the landscape as their ancestors did centuries ago is one of the most powerful and unforgettable encounters Cumberland Island offers.

Dungeness ruins © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

History of the island

Step into the past

History seems to whisper from every corner of Cumberland Island and the Ice House Museum is an ideal starting point for understanding its layered past. Originally built to store the enormous blocks of ice shipped in to support the opulent Carnegie estate, the sturdy coastal structure has been thoughtfully repurposed as a small but compelling museum.

Inside, carefully curated exhibits trace the island’s story from its earliest inhabitants through the colonial era and the rise of the Stafford and Carnegie legacies. Together, they offer visitors a grounded, accessible introduction to the people and events that shaped this remarkable barrier island.

From 1733 when General James Oglethorpe first claimed the island for the English through its later transformation into a landscape of grand estates and working plantations the museum offers a compelling window into centuries of life on Cumberland. The island’s very name carries a royal imprint honoring William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland and son of King George II adding another layer of intrigue to its already storied past.

Shortly after the Revolutionary War, General Nathanael Greene selected the site of an old hunting camp once owned by General Oglethorpe to build his home. Though Greene passed away before construction was complete, his wife, Catherine Greene and her second husband, Phineas Miller, carried forward his vision ultimately creating the elegant four-story mansion known as Dungeness.

By the time of the Civil War, the estate had become the centerpiece of a sprawling Sea Island cotton plantation reflecting both the wealth and ambition of its owners while leaving a lasting imprint on the island’s history.

While the Dungeness mansion itself has long since disappeared, the Tabby House nearby stands as the island’s oldest surviving structure. Thought to have been the Millers’ temporary residence during the mansion’s construction it was later remodeled to serve as the business office for the Carnegie estate providing a tangible connection to the families and history that helped shape Cumberland Island’s storied landscape.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Dungeness and the Carnegie legacy

Ruins that whisper grandeur

In 1882, steel magnate Thomas Carnegie acquired most of Cumberland Island and built a grand replica of a Scottish castle on the site of the original Dungeness mansion retaining its historic name. Following Thomas’s death in 1886, his wife Lucy Carnegie continued to use the estate as a seasonal retreat for many years. Over time, however, the once-magnificent showplace fell into disrepair and a devastating fire in 1959 reduced the building to a skeletal ruin—still one of the island’s most striking and evocative landmarks, a haunting reminder of the opulence that once graced the island.

Eventually, the Carnegie family deeded the majority of their land to the National Park Service and today roughly 90 percent of Cumberland Island is protected as a national seashore. In keeping with the Carnegies’ wishes that the land remain undeveloped, the island has been preserved as a pristine national treasure offering miles of hiking trails, sandy beaches, and quiet dirt roads—a rare chance to experience both natural beauty and rich history in one extraordinary setting.

Lucy Carnegie also gifted several other mansions on the island to her children leaving a lasting family legacy. Her daughter Margaret Ricketson inherited Greyfield which has since been converted into an all-inclusive inn still owned and operated by Carnegie descendants. Today, Greyfield is not only a charming place to stay but also a site of historic intrigue—it served as the secret reception location for John F. Kennedy Jr. and Caroline Bessette’s wedding adding a modern touch of celebrity to the island’s storied past.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tours and landmarks

A journey through time and place

The Cumberland Island ferry also makes a second stop at Sea Camp Dock, the gateway for visitors planning to stay overnight at the island’s primitive campground. This dock is also the departure point for the Lands and Legacies Tour, the island’s only motorized excursion. Lasting five to six hours, the tour travels in a 10-seat van along roughly 30 miles of unpaved roads shuttling participants to the north end of the island with stops at many of Cumberland’s most significant cultural and natural landmarks.

Only small backpacks or bags are permitted on the tour—no hard coolers or camera tripods—so plan accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience while exploring this untamed and historic landscape.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Plum Orchard Mansion

Elegance frozen in time

Tour highlights include Plum Orchard Mansion, a wedding gift from the Carnegies to their eldest son, George Carnegie, and his bride, Margaret. Guests on the tour are welcomed inside this magnificent 30-room Classical Revival–style home where elegant architecture, period furnishings, and sweeping views of the island provide a rare glimpse into the grandeur and refined lifestyle of the Carnegie family’s Cumberland estates.

After George Carnegie passed away in 1921, his widow sold the furnishings and abandoned the mansion. Later, the youngest Carnegie sister, Nancy, made Plum Orchard her home. Remarkably, the estate featured running water and electricity long before such amenities were common elsewhere. Inside, visitors can still glimpse a swimming pool, a squash court, and numerous artifacts left behind by Nancy and her second husband, Dr. Marius Johnston, offering a vivid and tangible window into life on the island during the early 20th century.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Stafford Plantation

Progressive roots of the island

The next stop on the tour is the Stafford Plantation, a site that predates the Carnegie era. Robert Stafford, the island’s largest plantation owner opposed slavery in principle even while owning enslaved workers. He ensured they received an education in reading, writing, and arithmetic and provided both a church and a hospital reflecting a progressive approach to plantation life that left a lasting mark on Cumberland Island’s history.

Stafford encouraged his workers to earn money beyond their assigned duties and to save it fostering a measure of independence and self-sufficiency. Though he never married, he fathered two mixed-race families and left them substantial trust funds to secure their futures. One of his daughters, Nancy Stafford, went on to become one of the first African American doctors leaving a remarkable legacy of resilience, education, and achievement that continues to inspire.

Lucy Carnegie later purchased the Stafford Plantation from Stafford’s heirs and gifted it to her eldest son, William, upon his marriage. After a fire destroyed the original Stafford mansion on January 5, 1900, William built a new home on the same site.

The Lands and Legacies Tour also stops at the plantation cemetery where Robert Stafford, his mother, and his sister are laid to rest offering visitors a poignant and tangible connection to the island’s deep and layered history.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Settlement: Life after the Civil War

Stories of resilience and community

After the Civil War, Stafford’s freed slaves migrated to the northern part of the island establishing a small community they called The Settlement. At the same time, returning Union soldiers shared stories of the island’s mild southern winters sparking interest in seasonal tourism and creating a market for hotels that would soon cater to visitors seeking the island’s charm and climate.

Developers soon saw the residents of The Settlement as a ready source of labor and many families purchased lots for just $11 building homes and working nearby. When the Great Depression shuttered the island’s hotel industry, many residents left in search of opportunities on the mainland, marking the end of an era for this once-thriving, close-knit community.

Today, only a handful of buildings remain at The Settlement providing a rare window into the lives of Cumberland Island’s post–Civil War community. Among them is the First African Baptist Church famously remembered as the site of John F. Kennedy Jr. and Caroline Bessette’s wedding reception linking the island’s rich history to a modern moment of celebrity intrigue.

Another surviving structure is the Beulah Alberty Home. Beulah, a college-educated schoolteacher and daughter of one of The Settlement’s original homeowners returned to the community to establish a school for local children, assist with legal matters, and support residents earning her the affectionate title of “Mayor of The Settlement.” Though the house is unfurnished, it contains historical photographs and visitor restrooms providing both a personal and practical connection to the community’s enduring legacy.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The island’s magic

Where nature and history collide

It’s impossible to overstate the charm and mystique of Cumberland Island, a place largely free of vehicles where only hikers and cyclists traverse its trails. Here, feral horses roam freely, wildlife thrives, and history whispers from every ruin and mansion giving the island a timeless, almost magical atmosphere that belongs as much to nature and the past as it does to its visitors.

Spending time on Cumberland invites a slower, more attentive way of exploring. Every sandy beach, moss-draped oak, and crumbling estate encourages reflection and discovery. As one visitor put it, “On Cumberland, you don’t just see history—you feel it under your feet, in the wind, and in the quiet moments between the waves.”

Whether watching a herd of horses move gracefully across the dunes, tracing the walls of a centuries-old mansion, or pausing to listen to the call of a distant bird, the island teaches that travel is at its richest when you let yourself linger and absorb your surroundings. Cumberland Island is more than a destination—it’s a journey into the heart of both nature and human story where every step feels like a connection to something enduring and extraordinary.

Experiencing Cumberland Island at a leisurely pace—walking its trails, observing its wildlife, and pausing to explore its historic sites—reminds us that the true reward of travel comes not from rushing to check destinations off a list but from giving ourselves the time to connect deeply with place, history, and the rhythms of the natural world.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in February 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.

13 Perfect East Coast Destinations for an RV Road Trip

The East Coast of the United States is packed with charming coastal towns, historic cities, and spectacular beaches making it a must-see destination for any traveler. An RV road trip is a perfect way to soak up the endless opportunities this coastline has to offer.

The East Coast of the United States is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty offering road trippers a mix of charming small towns, vibrant cities, and stunning coastal escapes. From the colonial streets of Virginia to the sun-soaked beaches of Florida, each stop brings its own unique story, sights, and flavors.

Traveling in an RV adds freedom and flexibility letting you follow your own schedule, stay close to attractions, and enjoy the comfort of bringing your accommodations with you. Morning coffee on your own deck, evening sunsets over the ocean, and the ability to explore hidden gems along the route make an East Coast RV road trip both relaxing and endlessly rewarding.

No matter if you have days, weeks, or months or want to stay in just one state or visit several, there is something to suit all travelers.

I’ve curated this list based on popular itineraries focusing on spots that are accessible by RVs, offer unique experiences, and pair well for multi-day drives. They’re presented roughly north to south for easy sequencing. Each includes key highlights and why it’s road-trip worthy.

Boston © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Boston, Massachusetts

Historic city known for its role in the American Revolution

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Historic heart of America with walkable neighborhoods—park outside the city and use public transit to avoid congestion.
  • Must-do highlights: Walk the Freedom Trail; catch a Red Sox game at Fenway; ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands for a quick escape.

Historic Boston should be high-up on any east coast road trip itinerary. As the capital and largest city in Massachusetts, Boston is one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in the U.S. One of the most popular activities is following the Freedom Trail which takes visitors around many important Boston landmarks including the Paul Revere House and Boston Common. Other free activities include exploring the beautiful university campuses at Harvard and MIT as well as the unique Massachusetts State Capital Building.

The Breakers, Newport © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Newport, Rhode Island

Coastal city famous for its Gilded Age mansions, sailing culture, and historic charm

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Gilded Age mansions line cliffside drives, offering a glamorous pause with yacht-filled harbors.
  • Must-do highlights: Tour The Breakers mansion; hike the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk; sail the harbor for sunset views.

In the next state down, Newport, known as the City by the Sea makes a wonderful change from the big city. The spectacular 3.5-mile cliff walk offers panoramic views of the sparkling ocean and Gilded Age mansions. There are miles of beaches and nearby hiking trails to explore, and the city has a vibrant art scene and excellent restaurants to enjoy.

Urbana Oyster Festival © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Urbana, Virginia

Charming colonial waterfront, historical buildings, and Urbana Oyster Festival

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Scenic drives, walkable historic charm, and the lively Urbanna Oyster Festival that celebrates Virginia’s coastal heritage.
  • Must-do highlights: Stroll the historic district, visit the James Mills Scottish Factor Store enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Urbanna, Virginia, is a charming colonial port town on the Rappahannock River best known for its rich history and small-town hospitality. Each fall, the town comes alive during the famous Urbanna Oyster Festival held on the first weekend of November which draws thousands of visitors to celebrate Virginia’s state shell. The festival showcases everything oyster—from raw and roasted to stewed and fried—alongside parades, live music, arts and crafts, and maritime traditions that honor the Chesapeake Bay’s heritage. Beyond the festivities, Urbanna offers a historic downtown filled with 18th-century architecture, boutique shops, and waterfront views that make it a delightful year-round destination.

Historic Jamestown © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Jamestown, Virginia

First permanent English settlement in the Americas

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Combines history with scenic beauty making it an easy stop along Virginia’s Historic Triangle.
  • Must-do highlights: Walk through Historic Jamestowne and watch archaeologists at work, tour the full-size replicas of the Susan Constant, Godspeed, and Discovery ships, visit the re-created Powhatan village and colonial fort at Jamestown Settlement.

Jamestown is where America’s story began. Established in 1607 as the first permanent English settlement in North America, Jamestown offers two powerful ways to experience history: Historic Jamestowne, the actual archaeological site where ongoing digs reveal artifacts and the remains of the original fort and the nearby Jamestown Settlement, a living-history museum with full-size replicas of the three ships that carried settlers across the Atlantic, a re-created Powhatan Indian village, and a colonial fort. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of John Smith and Pocahontas while learning about the struggles and triumphs of the earliest colonists.

Colonial Williamsburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Williamsburg, Virginia

Living-history museum

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Living history museum, immersing visitors in 18th-century America with restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive exhibit.
  • Must-do highlights: Explore restored taverns, shops, and the Governor’s Palace.

Just a short drive from Jamestown is Colonial Williamsburg. Jamestown was always a troubled settlement and the capital of the colony of Virginia. But eventually, the colonial capital was moved to the better location of Williamsburg, and Jamestown was eventually abandoned. Today Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living museum in the US and a must to see. Colonial Williamsburg has numerous activities and re-enactors. It offers a step back to Revolutionary Virginia.

Charleston © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Charleston, South Carolina

Economic and cultural hub of the antebellum South

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Antebellum charm meets Lowcountry cuisine—stroll the battery or drive to nearby plantations.
  • Must-do highlights: Carriage tour of historic district; ghost walk at dusk; beach hop to Folly Beach.

With its colorful antebellum buildings draped in Spanish moss, it is difficult not to fall in love with Charleston. While not the capital city of South Carolina (that title goes to college-town Columbia), Charleston is the biggest city in the state and is constantly ranked among the best cities in the US. History buffs will enjoy a visit to nearby Fort Sumter and the nearby historic plantations such as Magnolia Plantation or Drayton Hall. If you somehow tire yourself of this charming city, the beautiful beaches at Isle of Palms or Folly Beach are close to the city.

Edisto Beach © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Edisto Beach, South Carolina

Known not only for its natural beauty

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Mix of relaxation and discovery—easy to reach by scenic back roads from Charleston yet far enough off the beaten path to feel like a hidden getaway.
  • Must-do highlights: Stroll or bike through Edisto Beach State Park, hunt for seashells along the shoreline, take a boat or kayak tour, enjoy freshly caught seafood.

Edisto Beach is one of the few remaining quiet, family-friendly beaches along the South Carolina coast offering a laid-back alternative to busier destinations like Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head. Known for its natural beauty and unspoiled shoreline, the area is perfect for travelers who want to relax, collect seashells and shark teeth, and enjoy wide stretches of sandy beach without the crowds. Nearby Edisto Beach State Park provides campsites, hiking and biking trails, and access to salt marshes teeming with wildlife.

Savannah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Savannah, Georgia

Oldest city in Georgia 

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Moss-draped oaks and squares beg for a slow drive with haunted vibes and Southern hospitality.
  • Must-do highlights: America’s oldest city with fort walls and cobblestone streets—pair with a beach drive south.

Along with Charleston, Savannah is another city that oozes southern charm with its cobblestone streets and Spanish-moss-laden oaks. Forsyth Park is a 30-acre green landscape right in historic downtown Savannah and is home to a huge fountain which is one of the most photographed spots in all of Savannah. The historic district of the city is one of the most beautiful and preserved in the U.S. but there are also lots of options for excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife throughout the city.

Jekyll Island Club © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Jekyll Island, Georgia

Blends natural beauty with Gilded Age history

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: A serene escape with 10 miles of unspoiled beaches, historic landmarks, bike-friendly paths.
  • Must-do highlights: Stroll along Driftwood Beach, tour the Jekyll Island Historic District and its Gilded Age mansions, visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

When people say Jekyll Island has a rich history, they mean it quite literally. Long before this island became a relaxed getaway for families, it served as the home to Jekyll Island Club, an ultra-exclusive winter retreat for the nation’s wealthiest people. (Do the last names Pulitzer, Vanderbilt, and Rockefeller ring a bell?) Today, 34 beautifully-preserved historic structures still stand on the former Club grounds including the Moss Cottage, Faith Chapel, and the old infirmary. A 60-minute Landmark Trolley Tour is one of the best ways to see all 240 acres of the historic district.

Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Cumberland Island, Georgia

Cumberland Island is preserved as a National Seashore

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: A secluded, ferry-only gem with wild horses and untouched beaches.
  • Must-do highlights: Explore the ruins of Dungeness Mansion and other historic structures camp at Sea Camp; hike the island’s trails through maritime forests and salt marshes.

Cumberland Island is Georgia’s largest and wildest barrier island offering an untamed escape into pristine beaches, maritime forests, and salt marshes. A large portion of the island is protected as Cumberland Island National Seashore where visitors can hike among ancient live oaks, explore historic ruins like the Carnegie family’s Dungeness mansion, and spot wild horses roaming freely along the shoreline. The island is accessible only by ferry from St. Marys which adds to its secluded and adventurous charm. With miles of untouched beaches, diverse wildlife, and a sense of isolation, Cumberland Island is a destination for those who want to disconnect and experience nature and history in its purest form.

Amelia Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

11. Fernandina Beach, Florida

Combines small-town charm with oceanfront relaxation

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: On Amelia Island, historic charm with Victorian homes and quiet beaches, ideal for a relaxed stop.
  • Must-do highlights: Tour Fort Clinch, stroll Centre Street’s shops, kayak Amelia River for dolphins.

Fernandina Beach located on Amelia Island is a charming coastal town that blends historic charm with seaside relaxation. Its historic downtown features brick streets, Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and a thriving local dining scene known for fresh seafood and Southern cuisine. Visitors can stroll along Amelia River waterfront, explore the Amelia Island Museum of History, or relax on the quiet beaches just steps away from town. Fernandina Beach also hosts festivals like the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival celebrating the region’s rich maritime and cultural heritage. With its combination of history, culture, and coastal beauty, Fernandina Beach offers a welcoming and picturesque stop for road trippers.

Daytona Beach © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

12. Daytona Beach, Florida

“The World’s Most Famous Beach” 

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Coastal hub with 23 miles of wide, driveable beaches, and a rich motorsport legacy.
  • Must-do highlights: Cruise the hard-packed sand, tour the iconic NASCAR track, or catch a race.

Daytona Beach is an iconic coastal city known for its wide, hard-packed sand beaches, motorsports, and vibrant entertainment scene. Famous as the home of the Daytona International Speedway, the city attracts racing fans from around the world for events like the Daytona 500 and Bike Week. Beyond racing, visitors can drive or walk along the 23-mile stretch of beach, explore Boardwalk Amusements, or enjoy local seafood and shopping. Daytona Beach also offers a variety of outdoor activities from surfing and kayaking to golfing and nature trails making it a versatile destination for families, thrill-seekers, and road trippers alike.

Kennedy Space Center © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

13. Cape Canaveral, Florida

NASA’s primary launch site for human spaceflight

  • Why it’s perfect for a road trip: Blends space exploration history with coastal charm, offering a unique mix of educational attractions and relaxed beaches.
  • Must-do highlights: Visit Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, explore rocket displays, the Apollo/Saturn V Center, and astronaut encounters.

Cape Canaveral is best known as a hub of space exploration and a gateway to the Atlantic coast’s stunning beaches. Home to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, visitors can experience the awe of spaceflight through interactive exhibits, historic spacecraft, astronaut encounters, and even rocket launches. Beyond its space attractions, Cape Canaveral offers beautiful beaches, boating, fishing, and nearby coastal towns for dining and shopping. It’s a destination that uniquely blends science, history, and seaside recreation making it both educational and entertaining for travelers of all ages.

Final thoughts

An East Coast road trip in an RV is the perfect way to experience America’s rich history, stunning coastline, and charming small towns at your own pace. From the colonial streets of Virginia and the quiet beaches of South Carolina to the wild barrier islands of Georgia and the vibrant shores of Florida, each stop offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

Traveling in an RV allows you to immerse yourself fully in each destination, whether it’s attending a lively oyster festival, exploring historic ruins, biking along scenic trails, or simply watching the sunset from your own deck. With freedom, flexibility, and comfort on your side, this East Coast journey promises unforgettable memories and countless opportunities to explore hidden gems along the way.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in October 2025. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.

Worth Pondering…

The journey, not the arrival, matters.

—T.S. Eliot

The 17 Best National Parks in the South

The southern United States is home to a diverse array of national parks, each offering unique landscapes, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities

When it comes to raw, unfiltered natural beauty, the southern United States doesn’t hold back, y’all. From wild horses trotting along coastal dunes to ancient caves carved beneath Kentucky soil and rugged mountain ridges cloaked in mist, the region is oozing with iconic (and surprising) national parks. It’s a place where Civil War battlefields meet tropical coral reefs and dense hardwood forests lead to stargazing expanses.

Visitation to southern U.S. national parks is booming—and for good reason. More travelers are craving slower, outdoorsy escapes and with the region’s year-round mild climate, diverse ecosystems, and easy access from major metro areas, these parks deliver in spades.

Here are 17 of the best national parks to explore in the South, each offering something truly one-of-a-kind.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina & Tennessee

Best for hiking

America’s most visited national park has earned its stripes with mist-covered peaks, wildflower-strewn meadows, and 800-plus miles of trails. Whether you’re up for a soul-cleansing trek to Clingmans Dome or a casual wildlife-spotting drive through Cades Cove, the Smokies serve up drama in every direction.

Spring blooms, summer greens, autumnal fireworks, and snowy winter vistas—every season has its own flair here. Want to see elk, black bears, or wild turkeys? Hit Cataloochee or Cades Cove early in the morning or near dusk for your best chance.

  • Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, wildlife spotting (black bears, elk), and camping
  • Why visit: Year-round accessibility, stunning vistas, and rich Southern Appalachian history

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2. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland & Virginia

Best for wild horse sightings

A barrier island shaped daily by wind and wave, Assateague is the untamed Atlantic at its most photogenic. It’s known for its roaming bands of wild horses believed to be descendants of shipwrecked Spanish mustangs. Visitors can walk the wide-open beaches, kayak through salt marshes, or explore the Over-Sand Vehicle zone (OSV, as it’s locally known) for a thrilling beach drive—just make sure your permit is properly affixed and you’ve brushed up on the regulations.

Bring binoculars because wild ponies aren’t the only leading characters here—migratory birds, dolphins, and even ghost crabs can make appearances.

  • Activities: Hiking, water activities, wildlife, viewing, fishing
  • Why visit: Unspoiled nature and wild horses
Padre Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

Best for beach activities

Padre Island National Seashore is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world stretching 70 miles with 65 miles of Gulf beach. The park covers over 130,000 acres of dunes, grasslands, beaches, and coastal prairie habitats, offering a pristine natural environment for wildlife and visitors alike.

The seashore is known for its wildlife conservation efforts especially as the most important nesting beach in the U.S. for the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle. Visitors can sometimes witness sea turtle hatchlings being released into the Gulf of Mexico.

Recreational activities include camping, fishing, windsurfing, birdwatching, beachcombing, and driving on most of the beach with four-wheel-drive vehicles. The seashore also includes unique environments such as the hypersaline Laguna Madre lagoon, tidal mud flats, and bird rookeries on small natural islands

  • Activities: Beach activities, hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping
  • Why visit: Endless stretches of sand and dune

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4. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Best for exploring the world’s longest-known cave system

Deep beneath the hills of south-central Kentucky lies a dark and dazzling underworld. Mammoth Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts more than 400 miles of mapped passageways making it the world’s longest-known cave system. The network has seen everything from Native American exploration to (fun fact!) tuberculosis patients seeking subterranean healing.

Above ground, the park’s 52,000 acres offer hiking, horseback riding, and paddling opportunities. But to truly experience the mystique of Mammoth, book a guided cave tour well in advance—these tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons.

  • Activities: Cave tours, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, and camping
  • Why visit: A subterranean adventure paired with scenic above-ground trails
Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Congaree National Park, South Carolina

Best for long-distance paddling

Congaree might not have towering peaks but it more than compensates with mystical swamplands and ancient hardwood forests. Home to some of the tallest trees in the eastern U.S. this national park is a haven for paddlers, birders, and anyone who appreciates a good dose of biodiversity.

The 15-mile Cedar Creek Canoe Trail is the marquee adventure—snaking through lush floodplains and offering a front-row seat to turtles, otters, and barred owls. Canoe or kayak rentals are available nearby and guided paddle tours only deepen the experience.

  • Activities: Kayaking, canoeing, hiking (boardwalk trails), and wildlife spotting
  • Why visit: Peaceful, less-crowded park with mystical swamplands and biodiversity

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6. Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, South Carolina

Best for a quick day trip

Charleston’s harbor is where the first shots of the Civil War rang out and you can relive that moment at Fort Sumter only accessible by boat. The site offers ranger-led talks and sweeping views of the city skyline and Atlantic waters.

Back on Sullivan’s Island, Fort Moultrie presents a broader look at 171 years of coastal defense history from the Revolutionary War through World War II. Seasonal living history programs and interpretive exhibits round out the educational (and picturesque) experience.

  • Activities: Historical tours and sightseeing
  • Why visit: Rich historical significance with scenic coastal views
Cowpens National Battlefield © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Cowpens National Battlefield, South Carolina

Best for American Revolutionary War history

On January 17, 1781, the Americans won a decisive battle against the better-trained British Army. The Battle of Cowpens was over in less than an hour. This battle was the event which started British General Cornwallis on his march north to his eventual surrender at Yorktown just nine months later. It was one of those special moments in time when destiny is forever changed. The march to Yorktown had begun.

  • Activities: Hiking the Battlefield Trail and exploring the Auto Loop Road
  • Why visit: Historical impact and natural beauty

8. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, Georgia

Best for Civil War history

A short drive from Atlanta, this battlefield park preserves the memory of the pivotal 1864 Battle of Kennesaw Mountain. Watch a cinematic masterpiece of an introductory film (Kennesaw: One Last Mountain), then set off on trails that weave through trenches and over ridgelines where Union and Confederate forces once clashed.

Living history events complete with musket fire and reenactors periodically breathe new life into this historic site. It’s a moving experience for history lovers and casual hikers alike.

  • Activities: Hiking, history tours, special events
  • Why visit: Historical importance and scenic beauty

9. Everglades National Park, Florida

Best for alligator spotting

Florida’s Everglades are really like nowhere else on Earth—a sprawling “river of grass” teeming with sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and toothy reptiles galore. Wildlife lovers will rejoice at the birding and alligator watching especially along Shark Valley’s 15-mile loop road (rent a bike or hop on the tram). Adventurous souls can go deeper: backcountry chickee camping (a raised platform above water), kayaking through mangroves, and even stargazing in designated dark sky areas are on the table.

  • Activities: Airboat tours, kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and camping
  • Why visit: Unique ecosystem with unparalleled opportunities to see alligators and diverse bird species
Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia

Best for pristine, undeveloped beaches

Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island is a pristine natural and historical gem accessible only by boat, primarily via a 45-minute ferry from St. Marys. Spanning 17.5 miles long and covering 36,415 acres it’s renowned for its undeveloped beaches, maritime forests, and over 9,800 acres of designated wilderness. The island hosts diverse wildlife including feral horses (150–200 descendants of 18th-century domesticated breeds), sea turtles, alligators, armadillos, and abundant shorebirds. Its ecosystems range from salt marshes to live oak forests draped in Spanish moss.

Visitors can walk the ruins of the Dungeness mansion and tour the 22,000-square-foot Plum Orchard Mansion, two early 20th-century Carnegie family estates.

  • Activities: Hiking, beach activities, and wildlife viewing
  • Why visit: Uutouched beauty and historical depth

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11. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Best for overnight adventures

Accessible only by boat or seaplane from Key West, Dry Tortugas feels like a national park on another planet. Its centerpiece, 19th-century Fort Jefferson, sits surrounded by turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs.

Snorkeling is a must but those who spend the night get the real magic: starlit skies, crashing waves, and a Robinson Crusoe-like solitude. Primitive camping requires advance permits and packing in everything—yes, everything.

  • Activities: Snorkeling, diving, camping, and exploring historic sites
  • Why visit: A tropical paradise with crystal waters and rich history

12. Biscayne National Park, Florida

Best for water adventures

Just beyond Miami’s skyline lies a tropical paradise few travelers know exists. Biscayne National Park is 95 percent water with snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, and paddleboarding all part of the adventure. Beneath the surface are shipwrecks and colorful reef systems while on land, Boca Chita Key offers a charming lighthouse and picnic-perfect grounds. History buffs can trace human presence back 10,000 years—from the Tequesta people to pineapple farmers and presidents who fished this park’s waters.

  • Activities: Snorkeling, paddling, cruises, and camping
  • Why visit: A water-centric park with vibrant marine life
Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

13. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Best for stargazing

In the remote reaches of West Texas, Big Bend National Park offers a cinematic landscape of desert cliffs, winding rivers, and star-drenched skies. As a designated International Dark Sky Park, it’s one of the best places in the US for stargazing. Take on the moderate Boquillas Canyon Trail for epic river views or hit the high-clearance backroads (with caution) to really get off the grid. Don’t forget water, a spare tire, and your sense of adventure.

  • Activities: Hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, backpacking, and stargazing
  • Why visit: Uncrowded with epic desert and mountain landscapes

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14. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Best for surprisingly diverse landscapes

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is home to the highest point in Texas—Guadalupe Peak—and a geological treasure trove of ancient reef fossils. It’s an under-the-radar spot for serious hikers and geology nerds alike offering everything from desert expanses to lush mountain forests. The 8.4-mile round-trip hike to Guadalupe Peak is strenuous but rewarding with switchbacks that reveal changing ecosystems and jaw-dropping summit views.

  • Activities: Hiking (Smith Spring, Devil’s Hall trails), horseback riding, and camping
  • Why visit: Remote with dramatic desert and mountain scenery
Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

15. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Best for a scenic drive

A quick escape (75 miles) from the nation’s capital, Shenandoah National Park stretches along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with 200,000 acres of tranquil forests and panoramic viewpoints. The showstopper here is Skyline Drive: a 105-mile ribbon of road that winds its way through the park’s highest ridgelines, ideal for fall foliage and Sunday drives. While the drive is a bucket-list item, hikers can tap into more than 500 miles of trails including a section of the famed Appalachian Trail and waterfall lovers will be spoiled with stunners like Dark Hollow Falls and Whiteoak Canyon.

  • Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, and camping
  • Why visit: Proximity to Washington, D.C. makes it ideal for day trips or weekend getaways

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16. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Best for soaking in thermal springs

Hot Springs combines natural beauty with old-school charm. In the heart of downtown Hot Springs, Bathhouse Row features ornate early-20th-century architecture and spa experiences steeped in history. The thermal waters are piped into facilities like the Quapaw Bathhouse where guests can indulge in modern wellness treatments with an old-world twist. Don’t leave without a stroll through the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum or a hike into the surrounding Ouachita Mountains for serene forest views.

  • Activities: Bathhouse tours, hiking, biking, and soaking in thermal waters
  • Why visit: Combines natural beauty with unique historical and wellness experiences
New River Gorge National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

17. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

Best for rugged landscapes

As the newest addition to the national park system, New River Gorge is already turning heads with its dramatic cliffs, thundering whitewater, and world-class rock climbing. The Appalachian biodiversity here is off the charts with rare bats, birds, and river critters calling the gorge home.

Whitewater rafting on the New and Gauley Rivers is the stuff of adrenaline-fueled dreams but hiking trails like Long Point and Endless Wall also deliver with forest views.

  • Activities: Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking, and bridge walks
  • Why visit: Thrilling adventures in a stunning Appalachian setting

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Worth Pondering…

However one reaches the parks, the main thing is to slow down and absorb the natural wonders at leisure.

—Michael Frome

The 25 Most Breathtaking Places in the U.S. and Canada to Visit in your Lifetime

These are 25 of the most breathtaking for RV travel

What is the most breathtaking place in America? To compile the most breathtaking places in the U.S. and Canada is an inherently subjective and impossible task but we’d like to think that this list at least scratches the surface of some of the extraordinary beauty the continent has to offer.

Focusing largely on national parks, mountains, beaches, deserts, and other natural wonders, my list is sure to inspire your next RV road trip. Join me for a journey to some of the most breathtaking places that you can visit in an RV from mountains that rival the Alps to red rock wonder with colorful layers to glorious underground caverns.

There are so many amazing places to see, I couldn’t possibly include them all in just one list. But, these breathtaking destinations are worth bumping to the top of your travel bucket list—whether you’re looking to relax on a beach, get off the grid, or explore a charming town—these are the most beautiful locations to consider.

Bryce Canyon National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon’s name is rather deceiving. Instead of containing a canyon what it does have are stone pinnacles that were formed naturally over time due to erosion from the stream and weathering during winter’s frost. Multiple points throughout this park offer a stupendous view, but your best bet is Bryce Point in the southern region. From here, you’ll have a prime viewing of all the amazing stone formations known as hoodoos scattered about the area.

>> Get more tips for visiting Bryce Canyon National Park

Jasper National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Jasper National Park, Alberta

Jasper can sometimes be overshadowed by its cousin to the south, Banff, but the park is the definition of wild and scenic. It’s the largest park in the Canadian Rockies as it has one million-plus more acres than Banff. Jasper is also host to a robust population of wildlife including black and grizzly bears, elk and moose, and big horn sheep and Rocky Mountain goats, making it a popular tourist destination for travelers to explore.

Organ Pipe National Monument  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Right along the U.S.-Mexico border, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument has the kind of scenery you’d expect when you picture the desert. The monument’s tall, skinny namesake cacti abound in every direction. Instead of growing with one massive trunk like the saguaro, the many branches of the organ pipe rise from a base at the ground. Take a ride down Ajo Mountain Drive for great views of the forests of Saguaro.

>> Get more tips for visiting Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Tulip fields © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

These farmlands are must-sees in the spring—namely in April which is the absolute best time to take a trip to this Pacific Northwest locale. That’s when all the bright, vibrant tulips are in full bloom and when you can enjoy the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. If you visit at the right time you’ll get to see not just tulips in all sorts of pretty, warm colors but also countless other flowers that add to the gorgeousness of the fields. During the festival, you can taste wine, enjoy strolling through gardens, sample barbecues, and feast your eyes on art exhibits.

Caverns of Senora  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. The Caverns of Senora

The Cavern is over seven and a half miles long but only two miles of trails are developed for tours. Five levels of the cave vary in depth from 20 feet to 180 feet below the surface. The Cavern is known for its stunning array of calcite crystal formations, extremely delicate formations, and the abundance and variety of formations. You’ll find helictites, soda straws stalactites, speleothems, stalagmites, and cave bacon. The cave is a constant 71 degrees with 98 percent humidity which makes it feel about 85 degrees.

>> Get more tips for visiting The Caverns of Sonora

Joshua Tree National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Step into Joshua Tree National Park and you won’t just feel like you’re in another country, you’ll feel as if you’re walking onto another planet. Filled with bizarrely-shaped plants indigenous to the region like the Joshua tree as well as ginormous boulders that rise hundreds of feet into the sky, the landscape has the appearance of a scene from a sci-fi flick. Joshua Tree National Park is a photographer’s, hiker’s, and climber’s dream while the village of Joshua Tree has a unique charm as an artists’ enclave home to an eclectic mix of nature lovers, artists, and hipsters.

>> Get more tips for visiting Joshua Tree National Park

Bernheim Forest  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, Kentucky

Are you looking to connect with nature? Bernheim is the place to do it. At 15,625 acres, Bernheim boasts the largest protected natural area in Kentucky. Bernheim contains a 600-acre arboretum with over 8,000 unique varieties of trees. Take a scenic drive through the forest on paved roads or bicycle around the Arboretum. Over 40 miles of trails weave their way through the forest at Bernheim.

>> Get more tips for visiting Bernheim Forest

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Arizona and Utah

Home to Lake Powell, The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a stunning region of blue water with a desert landscape and dramatic stone walls. One of the largest manmade lakes in the United States, this area is known for both land-based and water-based recreational activities. You can enjoy a summer’s day with perfect weather, cool water, amazing scenery, and endless sunshine. This is the perfect place to escape to and rent a houseboat, stay at a campground, or enjoy lodging and hop aboard a guided expedition.

>> Get more tips for visiting Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Canadian Rockies

One of the most spectacular and beautiful places you will find anywhere, the Canadian Rockies are huge, pristine wilderness with local gems such as Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Glacier, and Yoho National Parks. All five parks combined with three British Columbia provincial parks have been name as a single UNESCO World Heritage site for the unique mountainscapes found here. Not to mention the world-famous lakes in the region. You’ll have plenty to explore with Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, and Maligne Lake, all stunning and fed by the glaciers in the area.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Canadian Rockies

Cumberland Island National Seashore  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia

Cumberland Island National Seashore includes one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the world. The park is home to a herd of feral, free-ranging horses. Most visitors come to Cumberland for the natural glories, serenity, and fascinating history. Built by the Carnegies, the ruins of the opulent 59-room, Queen Anne-style Dungeness are a must-see for visitors.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Botany Bay  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

11. Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve, South Carolina

If you want to see the South Carolina coast the way the original settlers did, take a step back in time at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve on Edisto Island. The 4,600-acre preserve includes three miles of undeveloped beachfront. This wildlife management area exhibits many characteristics common to sea islands along the southeast coast: pine-hardwood forests, agricultural fields, coastal wetlands, and a barrier island with a beachfront. Only this tract has been left undisturbed.

>> Get more tips for visiting Botany Bay

Mesa Verde National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

12. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most unique national parks in the United States. This park preserves the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archeological sites that are hundreds of years old. Short hikes, scenic drives, and viewpoints make the to-do list but the best way to experience this park is to get up close to the cliff dwellings on a tour.

>> Get more tips for visiting Mesa Verde National Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

13. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

Spanning more than 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California’s largest state park and one of the best places for camping. A diverse desert landscape the park encompasses 12 wilderness areas rich with flora and fauna. Enjoy incredible hikes, crimson sunsets, and starlit nights, and view metal dragons, dinosaurs, and giant grasshoppers.

>> Get more tips for visiting Anza-Borrego State Park

Shenandoah National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

14. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park preserves a section of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. Skyline Drive is the main thoroughfare through the park, a road that twists and turns for 105 miles from north to south. For those who want to explore the park beyond Skyline Drive, 500 miles of hiking trails traverse the park.

 >> Get more tips for visiting Shenandoah National Park

Enchanted Rock in Texas Hill Country  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

15. Texas Hill Country, Texas

The Texas Hill Country boasts scenic landscapes replete with rolling hills, grasslands, rivers, lakes, charming small towns, and fields covered in numerous varieties of wildflowers such as bluebonnets, buttercups, and Indian paintbrushes. There are also over 50 wineries to explore, each with its own terroir and unique approach to winemaking.

 >> Get more tips for visiting the Texas Hill Country

Okanagan Valley  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

16. Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

The Okanagan is characterized by a dry, sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, and a series of lakes. The region receives less than 12 inches of rain and two inches of snow annually and is the hottest and driest place in Canada. On the horizon are mountains of green foliage, aqua-blue lakes, and, in the distance, rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see. With its mild, dry climate, the region is also popular with golfers, hikers, and bikers.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Okanagan Valley

Painted Churches  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

17. Painted Churches of Fayette County, Texas

As German and Czech immigrants arrived in Central Texas, they established a cluster of small communities that had one thing in common: their painted churches. The term painted comes from the elaborate faux-finished interiors. Gold-leafed, stone, and polished marble columns and ceilings are (upon closer examination) finely-fitted woodwork.

The terrain between the churches is winding and rolling and contains some of the best country views in the state. The Painted Churches are a sight to be seen. Go inside a plain white steeple church and you will find a European-styled painted church of high gothic windows, tall spires, elaborately painted interiors with brilliant colors, and friezes created by the German and Czech settlers in America.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Painted Churches

Columbia Icefield  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

18. Icefields Parkway, Alberta

Linking Lake Louise with Jasper is one of the most beautiful journeys on the planet—the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). Rated as one of the top drives in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, the Icefield Parkway is a 145-mile stretch of highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields, and vast sweeping valleys.

The Icefields Parkway is dotted with more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock spires, and emerald lakes set in huge valleys of thick pine and larch forests. Glacier Sky Walk is a unique experience that puts you on a glass-floored observation platform 280 feet over the Sunwapta Valley.

Moody Mansion, Galveston © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

19. Galveston, Texas

With a year-round warm climate, a trip to the beach is almost a guaranteed fun time. Many beachgoers head to Galveston virtually any time of the year but the summer months are the most enjoyable bringing more visitors than any other time. Galveston Island is home to Moody Gardens as well as Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park. Galveston also offers numerous unique museums including The Bryan Museum, Texas Seaport Museum, Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum, and Galveston Railroad Museum.

>> Get more tips for visiting Galveston

Mount Robson Provincial Park Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

20. Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia

Mount Robson Provincial Park, the second oldest park in British Columbia’s park system is truly one of Canada’s crown jewels. The mountain for which the park is named guards the park’s western entrance. At 12,972 feet, Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, towers over the lesser surrounding peaks; this is one of the finest views in the Rocky Mountains. Just as the early trappers, hunters, and explorers felt in awe at the mountain’s magnificence, travelers today experience the same feelings.

Museum of Appalachia  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

21. Museum of Appalachia, Clinton, Tennessee

The Museum of Appalachia is a living history museum, a unique collection of historic pioneer buildings and artifacts assembled for over a half-century. The Museum portrays an authentic mountain farm and pioneer village with some three dozen historic log structures, several exhibit buildings filled with thousands of authentic Appalachian artifacts, multiple gardens, and free-range farm animals, all set in a picturesque venue and surrounded by split-rail fences. Strolling through the village, it’s easy to imagine you’re living in Appalachia of yesteryear cutting firewood, tending livestock, mending a quilt, or simply rocking on the porch, enjoying the glorious views.

>> Get more tips for visiting Museum of Appalachia

Natural Bridges National Monument  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

22. Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

Formed by the power of water in a place where water is all but absent, three stone bridges in the Utah desert have been protected as a national monument since 1908. Since natural bridges are formed by running water, they are much rarer than arches which result from a variety of other erosion forces. A nine-mile one-way loop drive connects pull-outs and overlooks with views of the three huge multi-colored natural bridges.

>> Get more tips for visiting Natural Bridges National Monument

La Connor  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

23. La Conner, Washington

La Conner is one of those places that people love to visit—time and time again. The reasons are many but one that stands out is that there are so many things to do in and around La Conner. A waterfront village in northwestern Washington, La Conner is nestled beside the Swinomish Channel near the mouth of the Skagit River. La Conner is a unique combination of a fishing village, an artists’ colony, eclectic shops, historic buildings, and a tourist destination. Relax by the water, enjoy fine restaurants, and browse through unique shops and art galleries.

>> Get more tips for visiting La Conner

Elk Island National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

24. Elk Island National Park, Alberta

Elk Island National Park played an important part in the conservation of the plains bison. This island of conservation is 30 miles east of Edmonton along the Yellowhead Highway which goes through the park. Watch for wood bison to the south and plains bison to the north.

Explore the park by foot, bike, or car, and be on the lookout for wildlife. Bison and other mammals are most active at dawn and dusk when females travel with their young. Beyond bison be ready to glimpse deer, elk, coyotes, and the countless birds that call Elk Island National Park home. Many animals shelter in the trees during the warmest parts of the day.

Capitol Reef National Park Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

25. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

With beautiful scenic drives, thrilling hikes, historical sites, backcountry roads, slot canyons, and unique desert landscapes, Capitol Reef National Park is an unexpectedly amazing national park to visit. If you love the idea of leaving the crowds behind and exploring a vast, remote area, you have several options. Cathedral Valley with its sandstone monoliths and sweeping desert vistas is a beautiful, unique way to spend one day in Capitol Reef. Or you can Loop the Fold, another remote driving day along the waterpocket fold. There are also slot canyons to explore, low-traffic hiking trails in remote areas of the park, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in Utah which you can see right from your car.

>> Get more tips for visiting Capitol Reef National Park

Worth Pondering…

“Where are we going, man?”

“I don’t know, but we gotta go.”

—Jack Kerouac, in On the Road

10 Amazing Places to RV in July 2023

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in July

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.

—Helen Keller

Throughout her life as an author and social reformer, Helen Keller motivated people around the world to overcome obstacles even in the most difficult circumstances. Despite losing both her sight and hearing when she was just 19 months old, she went on to become a prolific writer, lecturer, and disability rights advocate, helping found the American Civil Liberties Union and authoring hundreds of essays. Keller wrote these words of encouragement in her 1940 book Let Us Have Faith, calling upon us to take chances in life and trust in the path of discovery.

Glacial Skyway, Icefields Parkway, Alberta © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Welcome to July! While the sun and warmth may be reason enough to celebrate, there’s even more cause for jubilation in America’s neighbor to the north. Today is Canada Day, a holiday marking the Great White North’s independence from Britain. On July 1, 1867, a Dominion was formed through the British North America Act as approved by the British Parliament. It consisted of territories then called Upper and Lower Canada and of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The act divided Canada into the provinces of Ontario and Quebec and it included provisions for other colonies and territories to join in the future which made possible the growth of Canada into its present form. The act served as Canada’s constitution until 1982.

By terms of the Canada Act of 1982, the British North America Act was repatriated from the British to the Canadian Parliament and Canada became a fully independent country. At the same time, the name of the national holiday was changed to Canada Day. It is celebrated with parades, displays of the flag, the singing of the national anthem, O Canada, and fireworks. When July 1 falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following day.

July 1 is now commemorated annually nationwide from Halifax to Vancouver and everywhere in between. In honor of this historic occasion, today’s roundup touches on a variety of cultural histories in Canada and the United States.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in May and June. Also check out my recommendations from July 2022 and August 2022.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, Alberta

Travel to southern Alberta and you’ll uncover unique landscapes like badlands and hoodoos around lush green river valleys and literal writings on the stone around you. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park offers the natural scenery of the Milk River and the badlands but also significant cultural history.

The Visitor Centre trail is about 0.3 mile with great hoodoo views and information on upcoming events or tours. The park offers guided experiences throughout summer but you can visit for a hike or picnic any time of year. The Milk River is also a wonderful spot for a paddle.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. American History, Alive in Stone

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore near Keystone. Sculpted by Danish-American Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln Borglum, Mount Rushmore features 60-foot sculptures of the heads of four United States presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The entire memorial covers 1,278.45 acres and is 5,725 feet above sea level.

South Dakota historian Doane Robinson is credited with conceiving the idea of carving the likenesses of famous people into the Black Hills region of South Dakota in order to promote tourism in the region.  Robinson’s initial idea was to sculpt the Needles; however, Gutzon Borglum rejected the Needles site because of the poor quality of the granite and strong opposition from environmentalists and Native American groups. 

Mount Rushmore National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

They settled on the Mount Rushmore location which also has the advantage of facing southeast for maximum sun exposure. Robinson wanted it to feature western heroes like Lewis and Clark, Red Cloud, and Buffalo Bill Cody but Borglum decided the sculpture should have a more national focus and chose the four presidents whose likenesses would be carved into the mountain.

After securing federal funding construction on the memorial began in 1927 and the presidents’ faces were completed between 1934 and 1939. Upon Gutzon Borglum’s death in March 1941 his son Lincoln Borglum took over construction. Although the initial concept called for each president to be depicted from head to waist, lack of funding forced construction to end in late October 1941.

The National Park Service (NPS) took control of the memorial in 1933 while it was still under construction and has managed the memorial to the present day. It attracts nearly three million people annually.

>> Get more tips for visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Best of the Rockies

When it comes to the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park has it all. From the soaring limestone walls of Maligne Canyon to the breathtaking views of Athabasca Falls and crystal clear Pyramid Lake, Jasper National Park is filled with sensational activities for the hiker, kayaker, and all-around outdoors enjoyer could ever want.

Located at the foot of Pyramid Mountain, Pyramid Lake is one of the most picturesque places to see in Jasper. This kidney-shaped lake is the perfect spot to relax on the beach or picnic at the log frame pavilion.

Icefields Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Named in honor of a British nurse who saved the lives of many soldiers during the First World War, Mount Edith Cavell is one of the most recognizable mountaintops in Jasper National Park. Here, you can hike along different trails that lead you to some fantastic panoramic views.

If scenic road trips are your thing, you’re definitely going to want to drive the Icefields Parkway. Named after the Columbia Icefield and the glaciers that reside there, this enchanting stretch of highway passes through Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, and is one of the most remarkable routes in Canada.

So tour the world’s most accessible glacier, get front row seats to a diverse range of wildlife including elk, bears, and bighorn sheep and dive into massive mountain peaks, vast valleys, and forests filled with extraordinary evergreens.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Where nature and history meet

If you should know one thing about Cumberland Island, know this: The southernmost barrier island in Georgia with its 18 miles of unspoiled beach and acres of breathtaking natural beauty is more than sand and sea.

People obviously appreciate Cumberland for the peace and quiet, the recreation, the beaches, the camping, and whatnot. But they might not know—unless they’ve either done some reading or taken a ranger-led tour—that there’s history here. This place has been an integral part of practically every era in American history—and pre-American history.

Dungeness ruins, Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visitors can walk the ruins of the Dungeness mansion and tour the 22,000-square-foot Plum Orchard Mansion, two early 20th-century Carnegie family estates.

Cumberland Island is accessible by ferry only. Reservations for the 45-minute ferry ride are recommended. Board the ferry to Cumberland Island in St. Marys, a historic small town located on the Georgia coast approximately midway between Jacksonville, Florida and Brunswick, Georgia.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Badlands Astronomy Festival

South Dakota is home to Badlands National Park which boasts exciting fossil beds and unique geologic formations. In 2023, the Badlands National Park’s annual Astronomy Festival which is held in partnership with the NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium will take place from July 14 through July 16.

Per the National Park Service, “Novices and experts alike will enjoy the spectacular dark night skies of Badlands National Park at public star parties each evening. During the afternoon each day, a variety of family-friendly activities will provide opportunities for visitors to learn about the night sky, the sun, and space exploration.”

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Astronomers (and their telescopes) from the Black Hills Astronomical Society, Badlands National Park, Dark Ranger Telescope Tours, and the University of Utah will be on hand throughout the festival to lead guests in for day and night observations.

This free event is made possible through funding and support from the Badlands Natural History Association, NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, Dark Ranger Telescope Tours, Black Hills Astronomical Society, The Journey Museum and Learning Center, International Dark Sky Association, University of Utah, Badlands National Park Conservancy, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, and Badlands National Park.

>> Get more tips for visiting Badlands National Park

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Ocmulgee Mounds

It’s been more than two years since West Virginia’s New River Gorge became America’s most recent national park and since then outdoor recreation has continued to soar in popularity. NPS manages more than 400 sites across the United States but less than 20 percent (63) are national parks with the scale and amenities that can support heavy visitation. Currently, 20 states do not have a national park.

There are many benefits to having a national park. They can be a boon for regional tourism and bring federal resources for conserving land that may be vulnerable to development or invasive species.

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

So where could the next national park be? The U.S. is full of worthy candidates. But national parks are created through congressional legislation and there are many considerations including available infrastructure such as roads and restrooms. Community advocacy can help fuel the effort. With strong local and federal support, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park stands a good chance of becoming America’s 64th national park.

The verdant human-made knolls here are a vivid window into more than 17,000 years of Indigenous habitation. The ancestral homeland of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is a leading contender for the next national park slot thanks to a robust community initiative and bipartisan support in Congress. “We know that our ancestors are buried in this land and national park status would establish protections,” says Tracie Reevis, director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park & Preserve Initiative.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Exploring Carlsbad Caverns

If you’re a fan of geology or just want to see something incredibly unique, it’s hard to top Carlsbad Caverns. The main attraction of this area is the caverns themselves and there are tons of guided tours available. Tour guides point out particularly interesting features, teach you about \the formation and history of the area, and help you stay safe as you explore these naturally formed caves.

The visitor center is also quite impressive. If you’re a fan of documentaries, you’ll love the 16-minute Hidden World video presentation that they play every 30 minutes. This will give you additional information about the caverns so you can more fully enjoy your experience once you’re in them. The center also has exhibits about the native plant and animal species as well as hands-on learning experiences about the geology and history of the area. And of course, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop and buy some fun souvenirs.

>> Get more tips for visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Black’s BBQ, Lockhart © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Travel to Texas for beef brisket 

Travel to Texas and you’ll quickly learn something important about the locals: they know their barbecued meats. So when they line up for four or more hours to get some, it has to be special. That’s the situation at Austin’s Franklin Barbecue six days a week. Through the Franklin’s menu includes pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and more, the main attraction is its smoked beef brisket.

The team here keeps it simple rubbing the meat with a mix of salt and black pepper then cooking it low and slow in oakwood smoke until it’s fall-apart tender and encased in a thin, salty crust. It’s a juicy, smoky Texas classic, judged best-in-class by Texans themselves. 

Texas BBQ © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

You could drive to Lockhart, the state-legislated Barbecue Capital of Texas and be back in the time it takes to get into Franklin’s. But the queue is good fun; you can have a beer and meet some friendly Texans while you wait—and damn, that brisket is good.

Franklin Barbecue can now be shipped to your home anywhere in the United States. Get the best brisket in the known universe without standing in line. 

Learn to smoke meat like a pro! Aaron Franklin teaches you how to fire up flavor-packed Central Texas barbecue including his famous brisket and more mouth-watering smoked meat.

>> Get more tips on the best of Texas BBQ

Meaher State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Delta Boardwalk at Meaher State Park

The construction is complete on the Gateway to the Delta Boardwalk at Meaher State Park. The park is part of the Alabama Birding Trails Coastal Trail Series making the boardwalk a great place to bird watch.

The Coastal Birding Trail features six birding loops in Baldwin and Mobile counties totaling over 200 miles. Each loop covers different ecological regions representative of the northern Gulf Coast and enables birders to experience different bird species within each region.

Stop number 26 on the Coastal Alabama Birding Trail, Meaher State Park’s 1,327-acres are situated in the wetlands of north Mobile Bay and is a multi-use scenic park with picnic areas, 61 RV camping sites, 10 improved tent sites all with full hook-ups and a shower house with laundry facilities for overnight visitors. A boat ramp and fishing pier will appeal to every fisherman.

Meaher State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Stop at the gate house to pay a nominal $3 entrance fee and then drive to the shell road which runs a quarter mile to the aforementioned boardwalk. Park here (there is a chain across the shell road at this point) and walk on toward the boardwalk that extends out into Mobile Bay.

In winter, watch for Swamp and White-throated Sparrows as you approach the boardwalk. Herons, egrets, and gulls can be seen from the boardwalk and Least Bittern (summer) and Clapper Rail. In winter, American White Pelicans find this a favorite spot as do large rafts of waterfowl.

In summer, this is a great place for terns including Gull-billed Tern. In addition, Least Terns often gather on the railings of the boardwalk offering excellent views. On the south side of the island looking west into the bay there are often White Ibis. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron can be frequently seen near the entrance eating crabs.

>> Get more tips for visiting Meaher State Park

Chile peppers © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. New Mexico considers roasted chile as official state aroma

The sweet smell of green chile roasting on an open flame permeates New Mexico every fall wafting from roadside stands and grocery store parking lots and inducing mouth-watering visions of culinary wonders.

Now one state lawmaker says it’s time for everyone to wake up and smell the chile.

Sen. Bill Soules’ visit with fifth grade students in his southern district sparked a conversation about the savory hot peppers and the potential for New Mexico to become the first state in the nation to proudly have an official state aroma, a proposal now being considered by lawmakers.

“It’s very unique to our state,” the Las Cruces Democrat said of roasting chile. “I have tried to think of any other state that has a smell or aroma that is that distinctive statewide, and I can’t think of any.”

Chile peppers © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

For New Mexico, chile is more than a key ingredient for every meal. It’s life. It’s at the center of the official state question—Red or green?—and is one of the state’s official vegetables.

New Mexico produced more than 60 percent of the U.S. chile pepper crop in 2021 and is home to Hatch, an agricultural village known as the Chile Capital of the World for the unique red and green peppers it has turned out for generations. The famous crop also is used in powders, sauces, and salsas that are shipped worldwide.

>> Learn more about New Mexico’s famed chiles

Worth Pondering…

If I had my way, I’d remove January from the calendar altogether and have an extra July instead.

—Roald Dahl

The Best National Parks to Visit in July

Wondering where to travel in July? Why not opt for a nature getaway and visit one of America’s National Parks in July!

The national parks are a treasure—beautiful, wild, and full of wonders to see. But there’s more to experience than taking in gorgeous scenery from your vehicle or lookout points. National parks are natural playgrounds, full of possible adventures.

The most famous offerings of the National Park Service (NPS) are the 63 national parks including Arches, Great Smoky Mountains, and Grand Canyon. But there are 424 NPS units across the country that also includes national monuments, national seashores, national recreation areas, national battlefields, and national memorials. These sites are outside the main focus of this guide.

The list of national parks to visit in July is wonderfully diverse. Visit Carlsbad Caverns, go hiking in Lassen Volcanic, spend some time in the tranquil forests in Sequoia and King Canyons National Parks, and explore one of the most underrated US national parks, Theodore Roosevelt.

In this guide, I cover five great parks to visit plus four bonus parks.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

About this National Park series

This article is part of a series about the best national parks to visit each month. In this series, every national park is listed at least once and many are listed multiple times. It is a series of 12 articles, one for each month of the year.

These articles take into account weather, crowd levels, the best time to go hiking, special events, road closures, and my personal experiences in the parks. Based on these factors, I picked out what I think are the optimal times to visit each park. Since I haven’t been to all of the national parks I include only the parks we have visited on at lease one occasion.

For an overview of the best time to visit each national park, check out my Best National Parks by Season guide. This guide will cover the best time to visit each national park based on these factors. First are the links to my posts about the best parks to visit, month-by-month. This is followed by a list that illustrates the best time to visit each national park based on weather and crowd levels. Please note this overview will be posted following the completion of this 12 month guide in February 2024.

And at the end of this article, I have links to the other guides in my Best National Parks by Month series.

Lassen Volcanic National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visiting the National Parks in July

July is the busiest month of the year to visit the national parks. The weather is warm, the days are long, and many people are hitting the road for summer vacation.

By July, all of the national parks are fully open with the last high mountain roads opening by early July. So, you can pretty much visit any park you want. However, some parks are very hot this time of year (particularly across the south and into the American Southwest) and some are extremely crowded (Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, and Great Smoky Mountains make this list). You won’t see these parks on my list for July but there are some parks with lower crowds and great weather that make excellent picks this month.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The information I provide for each national park does not include temporary road closures, since these dates are constantly changing. Roads can close in the national parks at any time, so I recommend getting updates on the NPS website while planning your trip. 

Best National Parks in July

Lassen Volcanic National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Location: California

This national park protects Lassen Peak, the largest plug dome volcano in the world. In Lassen Volcanic you’ll see steaming fumaroles, pretty lakes, colorful landscapes, and Lassen Peak.

Snow lingers on the roads and trails at the higher elevation of the park into June and sometimes into early July. If you want to hike to Lassen Peak and have full access to the park, July is the earliest time of the year when this is possible.

Cool fact: Lassen Volcanic National Park one of the only places in the world where you can see all four types of volcanoes: shield, stratovolcano, cinder cone, and plug.

Lassen Volcanic National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Lassen Volcanic in July: By early July, the roads and trails in the higher elevations of the park open, so this is about the earliest you can visit Lassen Volcanic and have full access to the park. Plus, the weather is pretty much perfect this time of year.

Weather: In July, the average high is 72°F and the average low is 40°F. Rainfall is low.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 5:30 am and sunset is at 8:40 pm.

Top experiences: Walk Bumpass Hell Trail (isn’t that the best name for a hiking trail?), capture the reflection of Lassen Peak in Manzanita Lake, go for a scenic drive on Lassen Park Highway, visit Kings Creek Falls and Mill Creek Falls, visit Devils Kitchen, and hike to the top of Lassen Peak.

Lassen Volcanic National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: Hike to the summit of Brokeoff Mountain for panoramic views of the park. Note, this hike is best attempted in late summer to early fall when the trail is free of snow.

How many days do you need? One day is just enough time to see the highlights but plan on spending two to three days here to hike several more trails and thoroughly explore the park.

Plan your visit

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2 & 3. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks

Location: California

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks sit side by side in central California. Filled with alpine peaks, deep canyons, and the largest trees in the world, you should spend several days here.

Kings Canyon preserves a glacially carved valley (named Kings Canyon) and Grant Grove which is home to General Grant, the second largest tree in the world.

Sitting right beside Kings Canyon is Sequoia National Park. It is here that you will walk among towering sequoia trees and see the largest tree in the world, the General Sherman.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Kings Canyon & Sequoia in July: July is the busiest month of the year to visit but the weather is great.

Weather: The average high is 83°F and the average low is 65°F. Rainfall is very low.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is 5:40 am and sunset is 8:05 pm.

Top experiences: Visit Grant Grove and drive Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, visit Zumwalt Meadows, see the General Sherman Tree, hike Moro Rock, and visit Crescent Meadows.

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate experience: Explore the backcountry of Kings Canyon National Park. 77 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail/John Muir Trail runs through Kings Canyon National Park making this a top backpacking destination in the U.S.

How many days do you need? Spend a minimum of one day in each park.

Plan your visit

Theodore Roosevelt National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Location: North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a picturesque wilderness of grasslands and badlands. Bison, feral horses, pronghorns, and elk roam the landscapes, hiking trails meander through the colorful bentonite hills, and scenic roads take visitors to numerous stunning overlooks.

This national park is made up of three separate units: the South Unit, the North Unit, and the Elkhorn Ranch Unit. Of the three, the South Unit is the more popular. In the North Unit, the views of the badlands are beautiful, there are several short, fun trails to hike, and there is a very good chance you will spot bison and other wildlife right from your car.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Theodore Roosevelt in July: For those seeking out a little solitude in nature, the somewhat out of the way location of Theodore Roosevelt National Park can be a blessing in disguise. While many national parks are battling traffic congestion and parking problems during the peak summer season, you may see more bison than people during your time at this amazing national park. While summer is the busiest time at the park, though by national park standards, it’s still not very busy. 

Weather: Summer also brings the warmest weather with high temperatures averaging in the 80s, and sometimes into the 90s. Rainfall is relatively low with about 2 inches of rain falling in July.

Sunrise & sunset (South Unit): Sunrise is at 5 am and sunset is at 8:50 pm. The South Unit is in the Mountain Time Zone and the North Unit is in the Central Time Zone.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Top experiences: Hike the Caprock Coulee Trail, enjoy the view from Sperati Point and the Wind Canyon Trail, drive the Scenic Drive in both units, visit the Petrified Forest, hike the Ekblom and Big Plateau Loop, and visit River Bend Overlook.

How many days do you need? If you want to explore both the North and South Units, you will need at least two days in Theodore Roosevelt National Park (one day for each unit).

Plan your visit

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Location: New Mexico

An underground fantasy land of limestone chambers, stalactites and stalagmites, and long, twisting tunnels is located in the Guadalupe Mountains of New Mexico.

From late May through October you can watch the Bat Flight program. At the Bat Flight Amphitheater, grab a seat and watch as the bats emerge by the thousands from the natural entrance of the cave. The best time to see the bats is in August and September when the baby bats join the show. The Bat Flight Program takes place every evening and it is weather dependent.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Carlsbad Caverns in July: To watch the Bat Flight Program when bats emerge by the thousands from the natural entrance of the cave.

Weather: In July, the average high is 91°F and the average low is 67°F. July is one of the wettest months of the year with 2 inches of rainfall. The average temperature throughout the cave is 68°F and the relative humidity remains close to a constant 100 percent.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 6:20 am and sunset is at 7:40 pm.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Top experiences: Tour the caverns on your own or on a ranger-guided tour. You can also go star gazing, hike a surface trail, or go on a scenic drive. 

How much time do you need? A half to a full day is all you need to explore the caverns on your own and/or take a ranger-guided tour.

Plan your visit

Bonus! 4 NPS sites to visit in July

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

National park-like amenities tell the story of America’s most infamous active volcano. Gorgeous wildflower-packed views of the volcano can be enjoyed in spots like Bear Meadows while those seeking a closer view of the crater rim may drive to the Windy Ridge viewpoint or even summit the rim of the 8,365-foot volcano with a permit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore includes one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the world. The park is home to a herd of feral, free-ranging horses. Most visitors come to Cumberland for the natural glories, serenity, and fascinating history. Built by the Carnegies, the ruins of the opulent 59-room, Queen Anne-style Dungeness are a must-see for visitors.

Cedar Breaks National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cedar Breaks National Monument

At first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking this is Bryce Canyon National Park. It looks almost identical to its more famous national park cousin which is located about an hour to the east. Yet with less than a quarter of the annual visitation of Bryce, this small but mighty national monument makes a worthy alternative for those seeking color-packed canyon views stretching across three miles at an elevation of around 10,000 feet.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Encompassing over 1.25 million acres, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area stretches for hundreds of miles from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah. Outdoor activities are what Glen Canyon is all about. There is something for everyone’s taste. 

More Information about the National Parks

Best National Parks to visit by month

January: Best National Parks to Visit in January
February: Best National Parks to Visit in February
March: Best National Parks to Visit in March
April: Best National Parks to Visit in April
May: Best National Parks to Visit in May
June: Best National Parks to Visit in June
July: Best National Parks to Visit in July
August: Best National Parks to Visit in August
September: Best National Parks to Visit in September
October: Best National Parks to Visit in October
November: Best National Parks to Visit in November
December: Best National Parks to Visit in December

Worth Pondering…

Earth and sky, woods and fields, lakes and rivers, the mountain and the sea, are excellent schoolmasters and teach some of us more than we can ever learn from books.

—John Lubbock

The Best National Parks to Visit in May

Wondering where to travel in May? Why not opt for a nature getaway and visit one of America’s National Parks in May!

The national parks are a treasure—beautiful, wild, and full of wonders to see. But there’s more to experience than taking in gorgeous scenery from your vehicle or lookout points. National parks are natural playgrounds, full of possible adventures.

The most famous offerings of the National Park Service (NPS) are the 63 national parks including Arches, Great Smoky Mountains, and Grand Canyon. But there are 424 NPS units across the country that also includes national monuments, national seashores, national recreation areas, national battlefields, and national memorials. These sites are outside the main focus of this guide.

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Planning a trip to the U.S. national parks in May and don’t know which ones to visit? May is a beautiful time to visit the national parks now that the snow has melted across most of the country and roads have reopened. In this guide, I cover five great parks to visit plus five bonus parks and a road trip that links several of these parks together.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

About this National Park series

This article is part of a series about the best national parks to visit each month. In this series, every national park is listed at least once and many are listed multiple times. It is a series of 12 articles, one for each month of the year.

These articles take into account weather, crowd levels, the best time to go hiking, special events, road closures, and my personal experiences in the parks. Based on these factors, I picked out what I think are the optimal times to visit each park. Since I haven’t been to all of the national parks I include only the parks we have visited on at lease one occasion.

For an overview of the best time to visit each national park, check out my Best National Parks by Season guide. This guide will cover the best time to visit each national park based on these factors. First are the links to my posts about the best parks to visit, month-by-month. This is followed by a list that illustrates the best time to visit each national park based on weather and crowd levels. Please note this overview will be posted following the completion of this 12 month guide in February 2024.

And at the end of this article, I have links to the other guides in my Best National Parks by Month series.

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visiting the National Parks in May

May is an awesome time to visit the national parks. By May, warmer weather settles across most of the US. The snow has melted, the grass is green, the trees have leaves, and most roads are now open.

There are a handful of national parks that close their roads in late fall for snowfall and these roads don’t reopen until mid to late spring (or even early summer for some parks). You can still visit these parks in March and April but it is not until May that you have access to the full park.

May tends to be a busy month to visit the national parks but crowds are still lower than the summer months. If you want warm weather without massive crowds, May is a good time to plan your national parks trip.

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

IMPORTANT NOTE: The information I provide for each national park does not include temporary road closures since these dates are constantly changing. Since roads can close in the national parks at any time, I recommend getting updates on the NPS website while planning your trip. 

Best National Parks in May

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Shenandoah National Park

Location: Virginia

Shenandoah National Park preserves a section of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. Skyline Drive is the main thoroughfare through the park, a road that twists and turns for 105 miles from north to south. For those who want to explore the park beyond Skyline Drive, 500 miles of hiking trails traverse the park.

Why visit Shenandoah in May: This is the best month to see wildflowers blooming in Shenandoah National Park. Plus, the weather is warm, the trees have leaves, and the entire park is lush and green.
Weather: The average high is 66°F and the average low is 46°F. Rainfall averages about 4.5 inches per month through the year and May is no different.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 6 am and sunset is at 8:20 pm.

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Top experiences: Drive Skyline Drive and visit the overlooks, hike to the top of Bearfence Mountain, visit Dark Hollow Falls, enjoy the view from Hawksbill Mountain, hike to Mary’s Rock, and hike a section of the Appalachian Trail.

Ultimate adventure: For the ultimate adventure, hike Old Rag Mountain, a 9-mile loop trail.

Old Rag is generally considered a challenging route. The best time to hike this trail is May through October. You’ll need to leave pups at home—dogs aren’t allowed on this trail. From March 1-November 30, visitors to Old Rag Mountain including hikers on the Saddle, Ridge, and Ridge Access trails will need to obtain an Old Rag day-use ticket in advance.

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How many days do you need? You can drive the length of Skyline Drive in one day visiting the overlooks and hiking a trail or two. For a more leisurely experience or to do several more hikes, plan on spending two or more days in Shenandoah.

Plan your visit

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Saguaro National Park

Location: Arizona

Saguaro National Park is composed of two distinct districts: The Rincon Mountain District (East) and the Tucson Mountain District (West). Saguaro is a hot place to visit in May. So, why am I recommending it? Because this is the best time to see the Saguaro cactus in bloom.

The Saguaro cactus begins blooming in late April with peak blooming season in May. By the end of May into the first week of June, the blooming season ends.

Why visit Saguaro in May: To see the Saguaro cactus in bloom.

Weather: In May, the average high is 93°F and the average low is 60°F. Rainfall is extremely low.

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 5:30 am and sunset is at 7:15 pm.

Top experiences: Drive Bajada Loop Drive, hike Valley View Overlook Trail and Desert Discovery Nature Trail, see the Signal Hill Petroglyphs, and drive the Cactus Forest Drive. Just outside of the park is the Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum which is well worth the time.

How much time do you need? You will need two days to see the highlights of Saguaro National Park, one for each unit. With more time, you can go backpacking or hike the longer, more challenging hiking trails and visit the above mentioned Arizona Sonoran Desert Museum.

Saguaro National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Plan your visit

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Mesa Verde National Park

Location: Colorado

Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most unique national parks in the United States. This park preserves the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archeological sites that are hundreds of years old. Short hikes, scenic drives, and viewpoints make the to-do list but the best way to experience this park is to get up close with the cliff dwellings on a tour.

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Mesa Verde in May: In May, the roads reopen in the park and ranger-guided tours of the cliff dwellings begin for the year. The weather is fantastic and crowds are lower than what you would see here during the summer months.
Weather: The average high is 70°F and the average low is 43°F. Rainfall is low.
Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is 6 am and sunset is 8:15 pm.

Top experiences: Take a ranger guided tour of a cliff dwelling, see the Spruce Tree House, hike the Petroglyph Point Trail, drive Mesa Top Loop, explore the Far View sites, and hike the Point Lookout Trail.

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How many days do you need? One to two days are all you need to take a cliff dwelling tour and go on the scenic drives through the park. Consider spending a night or two in Morefield Campground just four miles from the park entrance. With 267 sites there’s always plenty of space and the campground rarely fills. 

Plan your visit

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Congaree National Park

Location: South Carolina

Congaree is hot and humid in May and with higher levels of mosquitoes, it’s not a great time to visit the park unless you want to see the synchronous fireflies.

With over 2,000 species found world-wide, there are only three species of synchronous fireflies that can be found in North America. Every year, Congaree National Park hosts synchronous fireflies for approximately two weeks between mid-May and mid-June. During this time visitors can experience an awe-inspiring display of synchronous flashing while the fireflies search for a mate. This special and unique phenomenon is extremely popluar. 

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

In order to protect critical firefly habitat and provide optimum visitor experience, tickets are required to enter the park during for this event. A set number of vehicle passes are issued for each evening of the event. Vehicle passes for this event are distributed by lottery hosted at www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300008.

Why visit Congaree in May: To see the synchronous fireflies.

Weather: The average high is 83°F and the average low is 60°F. On hotter than normal days, the high temperature can get up into the high-90s. In terms of rainfall, this is one of the drier months to visit the park but now that it is getting warmer expect humid weather. Mosquitoes can also be bad this time of year.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 6:20 am and sunset is at 8:20 pm.

Top experiences: Walk the Boardwalk Loop Trail, go canoeing or kayaking on Cedar Creek, hike the Weston Loop Trail, and hike to the General Greene Tree.

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ultimate adventure: For the ultimate adventure, go on a multi-day canoe trip on the Congaree River.

How much time do you need? One day in Congaree is all you need to see the highlights. Walk the boardwalk trails and go for a canoe trip on Cedar Creek.

Plan your visit

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Tennessee and North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. The ridgeline of the Great Smoky Mountains runs through the center of the park and it is here that you will find some of the tallest peaks in eastern North America.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. In 2022, 13 million people visited this park. Second place wasn’t even close (that would be Grand Canyon with 4.7 million visitors).

In May of 2022, 1.3 million people visited this national park (you read that right…1.3 million people in one month). To put that into perspective, that’s about the same number of people that visited Capitol Reef National Park all year! And Capitol Reef was the 21st most visited national park lastt year.

And May isn’t even the busy time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The busy season is the summer months and peak visitation is July with 1.6 million visitors.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Great Smoky Mountains in May: For great weather and lower crowds than the summer months.

Weather: The average high is 68°F and the average low is 45°F. Rainfall is about average for the year with the park receiving about 7 inches of rain.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7 am and sunset is at 8 pm.

Top experiences: Enjoy the view from Clingman’s Dome and Newfound Gap, hike the Alum Trail to Mount LeConte, drive through Cades Cove, and drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How many days do you need? You can drive the park’s main roads and visit the highlights of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in one day. To explore the parks more fully plan three to four days and avoid Cades Cove on the weekend. Trust me on that one.

Plan your visit

1 more National Parks to visit in May

Pinnacles National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park was included in my series for the best parks to visit in April since that month is a great time to see wildflowers in the park. The weather in May is very good with average high temperatures in the low 80s and low rainfall but this tends to be the busiest month to visit Pinnacles so keep that in mind while planning your trip.

Bonus! 4 NPS sites to visit in May

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore includes one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the world. The park is home to a herd of feral, free-ranging horses. Most visitors come to Cumberland for the natural glories, serenity, and fascinating history. Built by the Carnegies, the ruins of the opulent 59-room, Queen Anne-style Dungeness are a must-see for visitors.

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

Known as an iron plantation, Hopewell Furnace illustrates how mining and producing iron ore spurred the United States to economic prosperity. Visitors to this Pennsylvania site can see demonstrations and hike the surrounding area which was originally farmland.

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park

On the banks of the Pedernales River in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the LBJ Ranch tells the story of America’s 36th President beginning with his ancestors until his final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch.

El Malpais National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Malpais National Monument

The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais National Monument offers solitude, recreation, and discovery. Explore cinder cones, lava tube caves, sandstone bluffs, and hiking trails.

May road trip idea

In 10 days, you can drive point-to-point from Washington DC to Gatlinburg, Tennessee visiting three national parks along the way—Shenandoah, New River Gorge, and Great Smoky Mountains. You can also drive the Blue Ridge Parkway from Shenandoah to Great Smoky Mountains.

Blue Ridge Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

More Information about the National Parks

Best National Parks to visit by month:

January: Best National Parks to Visit in January
February: Best National Parks to Visit in February
March: Best National Parks to Visit in March
April: Best National Parks to Visit in April
May: Best National Parks to Visit in May
June: Best National Parks to Visit in June
July: Best National Parks to Visit in July
August: Best National Parks to Visit in August
September: Best National Parks to Visit in September
October: Best National Parks to Visit in October
November: Best National Parks to Visit in November
December: Best National Parks to Visit in December

Worth Pondering…

However one reaches the parks, the main thing is to slow down and absorb the natural wonders at leisure.

—Michael Frome

The Best Things to do this Spring in Georgia

Spring in Georgia is the perfect time to bask in perfect weather at festivals celebrating music, art, food, and local traditions

Spring in Georgia brings blooming flowers, warmer days, and activities of all kinds. Spring is an undeniably beautiful time of year to visit Georgia. From March to May the average low of 65 degrees F and an average high of 80 degrees F is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, camping, and strolling through the state’s many parks and botanical gardens. Spring break trips offer perfect opportunities to explore new places and attend events throughout the state.

From outdoor adventures that take advantage of the great weather to favorite events that only happen once a year, here are nine of the best things to do around the state this season.

Beach on Cumberland Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Go to the beach

Georgia’s beaches are among its best resources. Plan a getaway to explore some of Georgia’s 15 barrier islands, including…

Golden Isles

Nestled on the Georgia coast, midway between Savannah and Jacksonville lies the mainland city of Brunswick and its four barrier islands―St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island. 

The port city of Brunswick is laid out in a formal grid similar to Savannah’s with city streets and squares still bearing their colonial names. Explore the historic area which is enjoying a renaissance and features shops, restaurants, and beautiful homes reflecting a variety of styles dating from 1819.

Fort Frederica National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Drive to St. Simons Island. Check out Fort Frederica National Monument, the archaeological remnants of the island’s first European settlement or make your way to Neptune Park, an oceanfront park next to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse that offers a playground, picnic area, casino, and pool. Cannon’s Point Preserve features 660 acres of greenery and Late Archaic shell rings dating back to 2500 BCE.

Since 1928, Sea Island has been known as an exceptional destination featuring five miles of private beach, a Beach Club, tennis center, Yacht Club, and Shooting School as well as three championship golf courses including the home of the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic.

Jekyll Island Club © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

With 10 miles of sandy beaches, four golf courses, a 250-acre Historic Landmark District and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island has been a family-favorite state park destination for 75 years. 

In 1886, Jekyll Island was purchased to become an exclusive winter retreat known as the Jekyll Island Club. It soon became recognized as “the richest, most inaccessible club in the world.” Club members included such notable figures as J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, William K. Vanderbilt, and Marshall Field. Today, the former Club grounds comprise a 240-acre site with 34 historic structures. The Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark is one of the largest restoration projects in the southeastern United States.

Jekyll Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Plan your trip with these guides to the Golden Isles and Jekyll Island:

Tybee Island

Tybee Island is a family-friendly beach town 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. Rent a cute cottage, go on a dolphin tour, dig into fresh seafood, and much more. Those traveling with RVs and tents can stay at River’s End Campground and RV Park which is a few blocks from North Beach. There are more than 100 sites with full hookups, cozy cabins, and primitive sites. Campground guests will enjoy convenient amenities and comforts of home like a 24-hour laundry room, a fully equipped fitness center, the island’s largest swimming pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island National Seashore is the largest and southernmost barrier island in Georgia offering visitors more than 17 miles of secluded white, sandy beaches. Wild horses and other island wildlife roam freely throughout the ruins and along the beach. Glimpses of the Carnegie lifestyle can be easily imagined throughout the ruins of Dungeness, Plum Orchard, and Greyfield Inn.

Cumberland Island is accessible by ferry only. Reservations for the 45-minute ferry ride are recommended. Board the ferry to Cumberland Island in St. Marys, a historic small town located on the Georgia coast approximately midway between Jacksonville and Brunswick.

Dungeness Ruins, Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Plan your trip with these guides to Cumberland Island:

2. Attend a spring arts or sports event

Just as daffodils, dogwoods, and azaleas flourish in the spring in Georgia so do outdoor arts and sports events. Pick any city and you’ll likely find a spring event to enjoy.

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

International Cherry Blossom Festival

Each March, Macon becomes a pink, cotton-spun paradise as over 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees bloom in all their glory.The International Cherry Blossom Festival is a perennial favorite held March 17-26, 2023 that features art exhibitions, rides, and performances. 

The Creek Indians were the first inhabitants of the area that would later become known as Macon, settled by Europeans in 1809. Celebrate the Native American tribes that called the Macon area home at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, a site dating back 17,000 years. The site has North America’s only reconstructed Earth Lodge with its original 1,000-year-old floor as well as the Great Temple Mound.

Georgia Music Hall of Fame in Macon © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

In the 1960s, Macon was ground zero for the music industry thanks to Capricorn Records and artists like the Allman Brothers Band and Otis Redding. Learn about the band that called Macon home at The Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House, the Tudor-style home that Berry, Duane, and Gregg lived in with their family and friends. It has a large collection of guitars and band memorabilia.

The Blessing of the Fleet

Each spring, Darien holds The Blessing of the Fleet Festival for the captains of local shrimp boats. The largest event of its kind on the East Coast, it’s also a great time to get some exercise with the 5K run, admire arts and crafts, watch fireworks, and salute seagoing ships during the maritime parade. The 55th Annual Blessing of the Fleet on the beautiful, historic Darien Waterfront is set for April 21-23, 2023.

Savannah Historic District © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Savannah Music Festival

The annual 17-day springtime festival (March 23-April 8, 2023) is Georgia’s largest musical arts event featuring up to 100 productions. Established in 1989, Savannah Music Festival features artists from all genres including classical, jazz, folk, country, and rock. 

Savannah’s Historic District is sprinkled with 22 historic squares, stunning period architecture, and beautiful cobblestone streets, each with unique elements and stories. Take a walk down America’s Most Beautiful Street, Jones Street, take photos in front of the iconic Forsyth Fountain, and stop at places like Chippewa Square, best known as the site of the bench scene from the movie Forrest Gump.

Plan your trip with this Guide to Savannah.

Hank Aaron, a Braves legend

Atlanta Braves

Take in an Atlanta Braves game at Truist Park. The Braves open at home on April 6, 2023 against the San Diego Padres. The Braves’ first homestand of the season will continue with three more games against the Padres and a three-game set against the Cincinniti Reds. 

The Braves baseball team was moved to Atlanta in 1966 from stints in Boston and Milwaukee. It’s the longest continuously operating franchise in Major League Baseball. In their years as an organization, the team has won four World Series (most recently in 2021). Legends like Hank Aaron helped make the team what it is today.

In March 2017, the Atlanta Braves officially moved to their new home at Truist Park (formerly SunTrust Park). It’s surrounded by The Battery, an entertainment complex with restaurants, stores, concert venues, and a hotel.

Laura S. Walker State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Masters

Tickets to the legendary golf tournament in Augusta are hard to come by but even if you don’t have tickets there is plenty to do off-course during Masters Week April 3-9, 2023. 

Established along the Savannah River in 1736, Augusta was once home to cotton production which helped it become the state’s second largest city. These days, much of the city’s industry surrounds the medical fields and technology thanks in part to nearby Augusta University. The city is home to Augusta National and the Masters Golf Tournament as well as the birthplace of legends like James Brown. A thriving arts community, plentiful outdoor exploration, and locally owned restaurants only add to its appeal for travelers.

Spring blossoms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Delight in spring blooms

Spring color pops out early in Georgia especially sunny yellow daffodils and cheery pink cherry trees and tulip magnolias. Trace the season’s progression through the rainbow of colorful flowers, trees, and bushes that burst onto the scenery from their winter slumber. From the North Georgia Mountains to the coast you can explore a gorgeous array of gardens expertly created to showcase the season’s best.

See the largest daffodil display in the nation at Gibbs Gardens in Ball Ground in early March. More than 200 varieties of early, mid, and late bloomers cover 50 acres of hillsides and valleys.

Experience the beauty of 20,000 azaleas in bloom at Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain during Spring FlowerFest March 25-May 7, 2023.

Spring blossoms © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend at the 16th annual Picnic in the Garden in the Pecan Groove at Hills and Dales Estate in LaGrange on May 13, 2023 featuring a picnic spread contest, live music, pony rides, and yard games. Explore the historic Ferrell Gardens which are one of the best-preserved 19th-century gardens in America.

The Savannah Botanical Garden includes nature trails, a picturesque pond, and an archaeological exhibit among the formal and natural displays. Enjoy the Southern charm of the historic Reinhard House, the sweet sounds of songbirds, and wander along a path that explores camellias, ferns, and a children’s garden. Admission is free.

Georgia Welcome Center © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Take a culinary tour of the state

You can’t say we don’t eat well in Georgia! Go in search of fresh flavors this spring on a culinary trip across the state.

Food Festivals

Georgia’s spring food festivals offer a huge menu of options. A few choices include:

  • Georgia Strawberry Festival, Reynolds, April 22, 2023
  • Vidalia Onion Festival, Vidalia, April 20-23, 2023
  • Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival, Hiawassee, May 13, 2023
  • Taste of Alpharetta, Alpharetta, May 11, 2023

Pick-your-own Farms

Grab a bucket and head to one of Georgia’s many pick-your-own farms for a true Southern springtime tradition. The whole family will have fun picking their favorite springtime treats fresh from farms throughout the state.

Springtime in Georgia means warmer temperatures, blooming flowers, and…strawberry season. The official strawberry season can stretch from late April to July 4th in Georgia with the best picking from May to mid June.

Adairsville Historic District © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Food Tours

Eat your heart out in Georgia where restaurant and dining options range from casual to fine dining and you’ll find all types of cuisines—especially Southern. Dig in to the South’s best barbecue smoked to perfection and matched with mouthwatering sides like baked beans and macaroni and cheese. Peel and eat sweet, wild Georgia shrimp served with a basket of warm hush puppies while a sea breeze carries away the cares of the day.

Check out one of the many food tours like Atlanta Food Walks, Taste of Thomasville Food Tours, or Savannah Taste Experience.

Georgia Welcome Center © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Taste of Thomasville is a three-hour progressive lunch though downtown Thomasville that starts in the courtyard of The Gift Shop. Participants and the tour guide walk to award-winning food establishments in the downtown area. Between the food establishments, the participants learn the history, culture and stories that make Thomasville a unique town. 

Take a three-hour walking and tasting tour through the gardens and historic, cultural landmarks of the squares of Savannah, the Hostess City of the South. Savannah Taste Experience food tours will open your palate through bites and tastings at distinctive restaurants, extraordinary specialty food stores, and other notable eateries while providing a local’s perspective on culture, history, and architecture of Savannah. 

Getting out on the water at Stephen S. Foster State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Get out on the water

Enjoy the great outdoors around Georgia, especially the lakes, rivers, and ocean.

Lake Life

Georgia’s Lake Country boasts two expansive lakes with more than 15,000 acres of water (Oconee and Sinclair) and more than 10 golf courses nestled in the neighboring communities of Eatonton, Greensboro, Madison, and Milledgeville.

Closer to Atlanta, Lake Lanier welcomes boaters and fishermen. Lakes Burton, Rabun, Hartwell, and Blackshear are also worth exploring.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Exploring the Okefenokee Swamp

Take a walk on the wild side at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. This pristine 680-square-mile wilderness is an ecological wonder. The main entrance to the National Wildlife Refuge is located near Folkston.

Hike the Chesser Island Boardwalk to the Owl’s Roost Tower for an unparalleled view of the swamp prairies and the Okefenokee Wilderness. The Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center is a perfect place to begin your Okefenokee experience―talk to refuge staff and volunteers about recreational opportunities, recent wildlife sightings, and take a guided boat tour with knowledgeable naturalists or rent a canoe or kayak and set out on your own.

Take advantage of the discounts on multi-day, multi-entrance passes to Okefenokee Swamp Park in Waycross and Okefenokee Adventures in Folkston to experience boat tours, train rides, nature shows and the incredible scenery of the fascinating swamp environment.

Brasstown Bald with fall colors © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Plan a road trip

What’s a better time to start planning a getaway by car or RV? Decide what you want to see whether it be coast or mountains, cities or small towns. Follow the 41-mile Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway through the mountains, drive along US-17 to coastal communities from Richmond Hill to Darien or taste your way through the state on Georgia Grown Trail 37.

Surrounded by the beauty of Chattahoochee National Forest, the 40.6-mile Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway winds through the valleys and mountain gaps of the southern Appalachians. From the vistas atop Brasstown Bald to the cooling mists of waterfalls, scenic wonders fill this region. Hike the Appalachian Trail or fish in a cool mountain stream. Enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and piedmont. Several scenic overlooks and interpretive signs are features of this route.

Georgia Grown Trail 37 is Georgia’s first officially branded agritourism highway created to spotlight the agricultural bounty and beauty found in Southern Georgia. Featuring over two dozen agritourism hotspots and out-of-the-way shopping adventures, Georgia Grown Trail 37 takes you on a tasty adventure through small towns and family farms. You will find olive farms, vineyards and wineries, U-Pick berries and produce, unique farm products, and specialty shops. Take I-75, Exit 39, East or West.

Hunt for murals © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Hunt for murals

Looking for colorful walls to photograph? You’re in luck. Atlanta has hundreds of murals in every corner of the city especially around Cabbagetown and Old Fourth Ward. Savannah also has its own usually commissioned by art galleries and non-profits to beautify their buildings. Macon also has upped its game in terms of public art, with murals, sculptures, and Little Free Libraries around town. Don’t miss the mural in Dublin which honors the civil rights movement and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

8. Tour a brewery, cidery, or distillery

The Peach State has a thriving scene for craft beverages as new breweries and distilleries are opening every year in every corner of the state. No matter where you go, plan on having a designated driver.

A brewery © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Breweries

They may be found in old warehouses where the grind of machinery has been replaced with liquid gold and the sound of good times or in new wide-open spaces.

Atlanta has the most craft breweries including big-name ones like Sweetwater and those with multiple locations like Monday Night. But there are many breweries in other cities and towns like Macon Beer Company, Creature Comforts in Athens, and Eagle Creek Brewing in Statesboro. Grab a bite with your pint at a brewpub, like Good Word Brewing and Public House in Duluth.

Located within walking distance of college dive bars, Creature Comforts Brewing Co. hangs out in a former car dealership and auto repair shop on the edge of downtown Athens. Try its Tropicalia and see why it’s considered one of the top IPAs in the country.

Macon © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Downtown Macon has been making a resurgence thanks in part to breweries like the Macon Beer Company. This spot playfully uses the city’s name in the name of its beers such as Macon Love, Macon Plays and, of course, Macon Money.

Taking its name from the coastal Georgia Island, Jekyll Brewing has paved the way for craft breweries in the northern suburb of Alpharetta. And on the topic of branding you may be amused by the names of their beers such as Hop Dang Diggity, Southern Juice, Cooter Brown, and ‘Merican Amber.

Cideries

The gluten-intolerant can rejoice as there are also cideries around the state. Urban Tree Cidery is located on Atlanta’s Westside with a taproom to sample their varieties. Treehorn in Marietta is another favorite as is Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge. If you’re looking for a low-alcohol option, Cultured South on Atlanta’s West End brews the popular Golda Kombucha.

A distillery © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Distilleries

Distilleries also are open to visitors to offer a glimpse into how your favorite spirits are made. Atlanta has the ASW Distillery, Old Fourth Distillery, and Independent Distilling distilleries. Dalton Distillery and Dawsonville Distillery both specialize in legal white lightning. Richland Rum in Richland and Brunswick crafts the only single-estate rum in the United States made from Georgia-grown sugar cane.

Moonshine and other spirits © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Moonshine

Whether you go all in and tour a moonshine maker’s distillery or you attend a local festival named after the famous drink, Georgia is a great place to start your moonshine journey.

In the summer, classic cars and their owners head to the Georgia mountain town of Hiawassee for the annual Georgia Mountain Moonshine Cruiz-In. The three-day event features live mountain music, a real moonshine still, arts and crafts vendors, automotive vendors, and hundreds of classic cars.

Visit Blairsville in September for the Moonshine Market Arts & Crafts Show featuring regional vendors, live music, food, beer and spirits, and distillery tours. 

A winery © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Wineries

Georgia is more than just craft beer and moonshine. The Peach State has its fair share of wineries especially clustered around the North Georgia Mountains. Muscadine and fruit wines are produced as well as well-known varietals.

Kaya’s Winery and Tasting Room in Dahlonega are built atop a ridge that is 1,600 feet above elevation and offers panoramic mountain views in North Georgia. Enjoy wine made from estate-grown grapes with a view from the covered deck.

On the Helen side of the North Georgia Mountains are a number of wineries but Yonah Mountain Vineyards & Winery is frequently listed as a favorite. The namesake mountain rises into view from the tasting room inspiring the logo that makes the rounded peak look like a bear’s back. Experience their tastings which showcase chardonnay, merlot, malbec, pinot noir, and sauvignon blancs. The wine cave tour is what makes Yonah Mountain completely unique, the only known one in the state.

Georgia Welcome Center © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Bike the trails

Gear up with your helmet and two wheels to explore the state. There are plenty of paved bike paths for beginner or expert riders.

The Silver Comet Trail rails-to-trails path connects Atlanta to the Alabama state line and is accessible from the cities of downtown Rockmart and Cedartown. Bikers, runners, hikers, skaters, and horseback riders use the trail for recreation and commuting. The Silver Comet Trail begins at the intersection of South Cobb Drive and the East-West Connector in Smyrna and runs all the way to the Alabama border. There, it meets the Chief Ladiga trail in Alabama. 

The Carrollton GreenBelt is the largest greenspace and greenway conservation project ever undertaken in the city of Carrollton’s almost 200-year history. The 18-mile long linear city park is the largest paved loop trail system in Georgia and provides residents and visitors a unique escape.

The Chattahoochee Riverwalk in Columbus runs 15 miles alongside the water offering views of the whitewater rapids and a connection to the National Infantry Museum. By foot or on bike, you will skirt the cityscape, examine historic monuments and markers, and take in the wild beauty of the rolling river and native wildlife. Geocachers can take on the RiverWalk GeoTour, the first of its kind in the world with 31 challenging geocaches with collector game pieces including three coins.

Worth Pondering…

Come with me into the woods. Where spring is advancing as it does no matter what, not being singular or particular, but one of the forever gifts, and certainly visible.

—Mary Oliver, Bazougey

The Least Visited U.S. National Parks

These least-visited national parks in the U.S. have all of the beauty and none of the crowds

Currently, there are 63 national parks in the U.S., alongside countless more national monuments, national recreation areas, national seashores, and national historic sites overseen by the National Park Service (NPS). These protected spaces represent some of the most important natural and cultural landscapes in the country.

The NPS recently released its latest annual visitation data which will help us (and you) decide where to plan your next hike, whether you’re looking for a communal vibe, or a more secluded and isolated experience.

With almost 13 million visits last year, the Great Smoky Mountains remain undefeated when it comes to the most visitors of any national park. But other, no less spectacular parks see a fraction of those numbers. If you want to head off the beaten path, here are 21 of the least visited NPS service sites in the U.S.

Tumacácori National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tumacácori National Historic Park

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 38,786

The oldest Jesuit mission in Arizona has been preserved in Tumacácori National Historic Park, a picturesque reminder that Southern Arizona was, at one time, the far northern frontier of New Spain. The San Cayetano del Tumacácori Mission was established in 1691 by Spanish Jesuit priest Eusebio Francisco Kino, 29 miles north of Nogales beside the Santa Cruz River. Jesuit, and later Franciscan, priests ministered to the O’odham Indians and Spanish settlers until 1848.

>> Get more tips for visiting Tumacácori National Historic Park

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 50,017

Hubbell Trading Post is the oldest operating trading post in the Navajo Nation. The Arizona historical site sells basic traveling staples as well as Native American art just as it did during the late 1800s.

Aztec Ruins National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Aztec Ruins National Monument

State: New Mexico

2022 visits: 50,396

Aztec Ruins National Monument is the largest Ancestral Pueblo community in the Animas River Valley. In use for over 200 years, the site contains several multi-story buildings called great houses, each with a great kiva—a circular ceremonial chamber—as well as many smaller structures. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Aztec Ruins National Monument

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

State: Pennsylvania

2022 visits: 57,238

Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is the best-preserved iron plantation in North America. Hopewell Furnace consists of a mansion (the big house), spring and smokehouses, a blacksmith shop, an office store, a charcoal house, and a schoolhouse.

>> Get more tips for visiting Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site

El Morro National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Morro National Monument

State: New Mexico

2022 visits: 60,501

Rising 200 feet above the valley floor, this massive sandstone bluff was a welcome landmark for weary travelers. A reliable year-round source of drinking water at its base made El Morro a popular campsite in this otherwise rather arid and desolate country.At the base of the bluff—often called Inscription Rock—on sheltered smooth slabs of stone, are seven centuries of inscriptions covering human interaction with this spot.

>> Get more tips for visiting El Morro National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Chiricahua National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 61,377

The most noticeable natural features in Chiricahua National Monument are the rhyolite rock pinnacles for which the monument was created to protect. Rising sometimes hundreds of feet into the air, many of these pinnacles are balancing on a small base, seemingly ready to topple over at any time.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cumberland Island National Seashore

State: Georgia

2022 visits: 64,387

There is only one place on Earth where you can find wild horses, secluded white beaches, live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and the skeletal remains of a once-famous mansion. Cumberland is one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands along the Georgia coast. The National Park Service protects almost 36,000 acres of the island including miles of unspoiled beaches.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Saratoga National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Saratoga National Historic Park

State: New York

2022 visits: 70,742

Site of the first significant American military victory during the Revolution, the Battle of Saratoga is considered among the most decisive battles in world history. Here in 1777 American forces met, defeated, and forced a major British army to surrender, an event which led France to recognize the independence of the United States and enter the war as a decisive military ally of the struggling Americans.

Natural Bridges National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Natural Bridges National Monument

State: Utah

2022 visits: 71,249

Formed by the power of water in a place where water is all but absent, three stone bridges in the Utah desert have been protected as a national monument since 1908. Since natural bridges are formed by running water, they are much rarer than arches which result from a variety of other erosion forces. A nine mile one-way loop drive connects pull-outs and overlooks with views of the three huge multi-colored natural bridges.

>> Get more tips for visiting Natural Bridges National Monument

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 78,557

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument contains an imposing four-story building dating from the late Hohokam period probably 14th century and contemporary with other well preserved ruins in Arizona such as the Tonto and Montezuma Castle national monuments. The structure was once part of a collection of settlements scattered along the Gila River and linked by a network of irrigation canals. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

Appomattox Court House National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Appomattox Court House National Historic Park

State: Virginia

2022 visits: 83,483

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park encompasses approximately 1,800 acres of rolling hills in rural central Virginia. The site includes the McLean home where Lee made his formal surrender and the village of Appomattox Court House, the former county seat for Appomattox County. The walking tour allows you to see all buildings which are original to the site, and have been restored to their original condition. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park

State: Texas

2022 visits: 87,386

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park tells the story of America’s 36th President beginning with his ancestors until his final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch. This entire circle of life gives the visitor a unique perspective into one of America’s most noteworthy citizens by providing the most complete picture of any American president.

>> Get more tips for visiting Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site

State: New York

2022 visits: 100,665

See the place where Franklin D. Roosevelt was born and buried in Hyde Park at the Home of Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site. The home is also the location of the first presidential library.

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

State: South Dakota

2022 visits: 105,776

Commemorating the Cold War, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site offers visitors a history of the U.S. nuclear missile program and their hidden location in the Great Plains. The site details U.S. foreign policy and its push for nuclear disarmament.

Tuzigoot National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tuzigoot National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 116,639

Built atop a small 120 foot ridge is a large pueblo. Tuzigoot is Apache for crooked water; however, it was built by the Sinagua. With 77 ground floor rooms this pueblo held about 50 people. After about 100 years the population doubled and then doubled again later. By the time they finished building the pueblo, it had 110 rooms including second and third story structures and housed 250 people. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Tuzigoot National Monument

Coronado National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Coronado National Memorial

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 131,359

The site of the Coronado National Monument features panoramic views of the United States-Mexico border and the San Pedro River Valley which was the route believed to have been taken by the Francisco Vásquez de Coronado expedition. If you’re interested in life in this region before the Coronado Expedition, take a tour of the Coronado Cave. For those looking to stay above ground, the scenic overlook at Montezuma Pass (elevation 6,575 feet) provides breathtaking views of the San Raphael Valley, the San Pedro Valley, and Mexico.

>> Get more tips for visiting Coronado National Monument

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

State: Arizona

2022 visits: 133,317

This stretch of desert marks the northern range of the organ pipe cactus, a rare species in the U.S. The organ pipe cactus can live to over 150 years in age, have up to 100 arms, reach 25 feet in height, and will only produce their first flower near the age of 35.

>> Get more tips for visiting Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park

State: Georgia

2022 visits: 155,242

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon is a significant Native American landmark dating back over 10,000 years. Visitors can learn about the Mississippian culture, climb atop the seven mounds, and even go inside one of the mounds’ Earth Lodge. Eight miles of walking trails wind through the park including by the namesake river. The park is making efforts to become a national park and hosts annual events like the fall Ocmulgee Indian Celebration (31st annual; September 16-17, 2023).

El Malpais National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

El Malpais National Monument

State: New Mexico

2022 visits: 162,755

The richly diverse volcanic landscape of El Malpais National Monument offers solitude, recreation, and discovery. There’s something for everyone here. Explore cinder cones, lava tube caves, sandstone bluffs, and hiking trails. Known as the badlands in Spanish, El Malpais was used by early Spanish map makers to describe areas of volcanic terrain. El Malpais preserves an ancient volcanic landscape and a history of human habitation.

>> Get more tips for visiting El Malpais National Monument

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Congaree National Park

State: South Carolina

2022 visits: 204,522

Some of the tallest trees on the east coast are located inside Congaree which was named after the Native American tribe that used to reside in the area. Unlike many hardwood forests, Congaree was largely spared by the lumber industry in the late 1800s and was eventually designated as a national monument and then a national park. The terrain includes the forest, the Congaree River, and the floodplain.

>> Get more tips for visiting Congaree National Park

Cowpens National Battlefield © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cowpens National Battlefield

State: South Carolina

2022 visits: 212,534

Cowpens National Battlefield commemorates a decisive battle that helped turn the tide of war in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. On this field on January 17, 1781, Daniel Morgan led his army of tough Continentals, militia, and cavalry to a brilliant victory over Banastre Tarleton’s force of British regulars. The battle at the Cow Pens is one of only a few successful double envelopments in history.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cowpens National Battlefield

These 21 lesser-known and visited parks have minimal visitors, plenty to do, and much-needed peace and quiet. Consider adding these least-visited national parks to your 2023 list of road trip destinations.

Worth Pondering…

When your spirit cries for peace, come to a world of canyons deep in an old land; feel the exultation of high plateaus, the strength of moving wasters, the simplicity of sand and grass, and the silence of growth.

—August Fruge