Best RV Camping Destinations for September 2026

September is one of the best months for RV travel. Discover 10 memorable RV camping destinations where cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the first signs of fall make the journey especially rewarding.

Plan your early fall road trip with the best RV camping destinations for September 2026. Discover mountain escapes, coastal retreats, scenic parks, and hidden gems that come alive as summer fades and a new season begins.

September is one of the most rewarding months for RV travel. Summer crowds begin to thin, temperatures become more comfortable, and many destinations take on a different character as the first signs of autumn appear. From mountain forests beginning to change color to quieter lakeshores and scenic highways, September invites travelers to slow down and enjoy the journey.

After 30 years exploring the highways and backroads of the United States and Western Canada, I’ve learned that memorable camping destinations are about more than where you park for the night. The locations featured here have all been personally visited and selected for the experiences they offer during September when many places are at their most enjoyable.

Camping at Columbia Riverfront RV Park in Woodland, Washington with the Columbia River just beyond the RV. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Columbia Riverfront RV Park, Woodland, Washington

A peaceful riverfront retreat in the Pacific Northwest

Developed by former RVers in 2006, Columbia Riverfront RV Park is a 5-star, big-rig-friendly resort located on ten beautifully maintained acres along the sandy shoreline of the Columbia River. During our stay, we enjoyed a spacious pull-in site with river views from our windshield, making this a relaxing stop in the Pacific Northwest.

September is an ideal time to experience the area as summer crowds fade and cooler temperatures return. The park offers full hookups including 50/30/20-amp service, water, sewer, and cable, with large pull-through sites available. Located just 22 miles north of Portland near I-5 in Woodland, it provides a peaceful base for exploring the Columbia River region.

Camping at Hidden Lake RV Park in Beaumont, Texas, with a peaceful lakeside setting and plenty of room to relax. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Hidden Lake RV Park, Beaumont, Texas

A quiet lakeside stop on the Gulf Coast

Hidden Lake RV Park offers RV travelers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature in southeast Texas. With 72 spacious pull-through and back-in sites, the park provides plenty of room for larger rigs while maintaining a relaxed atmosphere. Lakeside sites, shaded areas, a nature trail, and catch-and-release fishing create the kind of setting where RVers can slow down and enjoy a few quiet days away from the highway.

September is a great time to visit as the intense summer heat begins to ease and the Gulf Coast becomes more comfortable for outdoor exploring. The park offers full hookups with 30/50-amp service at every site along with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, laundry facilities, and private shower rooms. Located near Beaumont, Hidden Lake RV Park makes a convenient base for exploring southeast Texas while providing a peaceful place to unwind at the end of the day.

Camping at My Old Kentucky Home State Park in Bardstown, Kentucky, surrounded by the history and rolling landscapes of Bluegrass Country. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Bardstown, Kentucky

Where history, music, and Kentucky charm meet

Few places capture Kentucky’s heritage like My Old Kentucky Home State Park. The Federal Hill mansion built between 1812 and 1818, was home to the Rowan family for three generations and later inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home, Good-Night!” Visitors can tour the historic home, stroll the grounds, and experience the history and traditions that make this one of Kentucky’s most beloved landmarks.

September is an ideal time to visit as summer heat fades and the first hints of fall begin to appear across the Bluegrass region. RVers can stay in the 39-site campground with utility hookups, showers, restrooms, and a dump station. Located near Bardstown, the park offers a memorable blend of history, scenery, and easygoing RV travel.

Camping at Eagles Landing RV Park in Auburn, Alabama, a peaceful country setting just minutes from Auburn University. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Eagles Landing RV Park, Auburn, Alabama

A peaceful base near the heart of Auburn

Located just a mile from Auburn University and less than two miles from Jordan-Hare Stadium, Eagles Landing RV Park offers RVers a convenient location without sacrificing a quiet country atmosphere. It’s an ideal stop for travelers wanting easy access to Auburn’s attractions, dining, and events while still having a comfortable place to relax after a day of exploring.

September brings pleasant late-summer conditions to Alabama, making it a great time to enjoy the area before the busier fall season arrives. The park offers a variety of RV sites including large concrete pull-throughs and gravel back-ins with options ranging from basic hookups to full-service sites with 50-amp power. Shaded sites and a peaceful setting make Eagles Landing a comfortable stop in the Southeast.

Camping at Barnyard RV Park in Lexington, South Carolina, with spacious sites and a convenient base for exploring the Midlands. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Barnyard RV Park, Lexington, South Carolina

A comfortable base for exploring the Midlands

Barnyard RV Park offers RV travelers a convenient and comfortable stop in the heart of South Carolina’s Midlands region. With 129 level, grassy sites, paved interior roads, and most sites designed as pull-throughs, the park easily accommodates larger RVs including those traveling with a toad. Located just outside Columbia, it provides a quiet place to settle in while remaining close to city attractions and services.

September is a great time to explore South Carolina as summer heat begins to ease and outdoor activities become more enjoyable. Sites include full hookups with 30/50-amp electricity, water, sewer, and cable, along with Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a dog park. A weekend visit also offers the chance to experience the large Barnyard Flea Market located adjacent to the park.

Camping at Jack’s Landing RV Resort in Grants Pass, Oregon, a comfortable stop surrounded by the beauty of southern Oregon. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Jack’s Landing RV Resort, Grants Pass, Oregon

A convenient stop in southern Oregon

Jack’s Landing RV Resort offers RV travelers a comfortable and well-maintained stop along Interstate 5 in Grants Pass. The landscaped property features paved roads, concrete sites, and a welcoming setting with mature trees throughout the park. Big-rig friendly pull-through sites up to 75 feet, along with convenient access from the highway, make it a practical choice for travelers exploring southern Oregon.

September is an excellent time to visit the region as summer crowds begin to fade and cooler temperatures make outdoor exploring more enjoyable. The park offers full hookups with 30/50-amp service, water, sewer, and cable, along with restrooms, showers, laundry, a small gym, and recreation area. While its location near I-5 means some highway noise, the convenience and amenities make Jack’s Landing a reliable RV stop.

Camping at Jekyll Island Campground in Georgia, surrounded by maritime forest and the quiet coastal beauty of the Golden Isles. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Jekyll Island Campground, Georgia

Coastal beauty and history along Georgia’s Golden Isles

Jekyll Island offers RV travelers a chance to slow down and experience one of Georgia’s most unique coastal destinations. From the haunting beauty of Driftwood Beach to historic sites, bike paths, and quiet island landscapes, Jekyll Island invites visitors to explore at an unhurried pace. The campground’s wooded setting on 18 acres provides a convenient base for discovering this special corner of the Georgia coast.

September is an ideal time to visit as summer crowds begin to thin and cooler temperatures make beach walks, cycling, and sightseeing more enjoyable. The campground offers 175 sites ranging from tent camping to full-hookup RV sites with pull-through options along with Wi-Fi, showers, laundry facilities, and cable TV. Located near Driftwood Beach, it combines the convenience RVers need with the natural beauty that makes Jekyll Island memorable.

Camping at Aspen Grove RV Resort in Tremonton, Utah, with spacious sites and a comfortable base for exploring northern Utah. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Aspen Groove RV Resort, Tremonton, Utah

A comfortable stop in northern Utah

Aspen Grove RV Resort is a newer, well-maintained park that delivers the kind of details RV travelers appreciate after a long day on the road. The spacious concrete sites are mostly level, with plenty of room between sites and landscaped green space that creates a more open, comfortable feel. Its clean facilities and thoughtful design make it a welcome stop for both overnight travelers and those wanting to stay longer.

September is an excellent time to explore northern Utah as temperatures become more comfortable and the changing season begins to add color to the surrounding landscapes. The park offers convenient full hookups, easy access, and large sites designed for today’s bigger RVs. Whether stopping for a night or using it as a base to explore the area, Aspen Grove provides a relaxing RV experience.

Camping at the RV Park at Rolling Hills Casino and Resort in Corning, California, an easy and comfortable stop along northern California’s I-5 corridor. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. RV Park at Rolling Hills Casino and Resort, Corning, California

A convenient stop along California’s I-5 corridor

Located just off Interstate 5 in Corning, the RV Park at Rolling Hills Casino and Resort offers a convenient and comfortable stop for travelers exploring northern California. With all pull-through sites, long spaces that accommodate rigs up to 75 feet, and easy highway access, it is designed with today’s RV travelers in mind. Guests can also enjoy nearby amenities including the casino, golf course, and clubhouse facilities.

September is a great time to travel through this region as summer heat begins to ease and northern California becomes more comfortable for exploring. The park offers 96 full-hookup sites with 30/50-amp electricity, water, and sewer, along with Wi-Fi access and laundry facilities nearby. With 24-hour security and a convenient location, Rolling Hills is a dependable overnight stop or base along the I-5 corridor.

Camping at Las Vegas RV Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, a comfortable base for exploring the excitement of the city and surrounding desert. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Las Vegas RV Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada

A comfortable base for exploring the desert city

Las Vegas RV Resort offers RV travelers a convenient place to stay while experiencing the energy of one of America’s most famous destinations. Located just a short distance from the excitement of The Strip, the 378-site resort provides easy access to entertainment, dining, and nearby attractions while offering a quieter place to return after a day of exploring.

September is an ideal time to visit Las Vegas as temperatures begin to ease and outdoor adventures in the surrounding desert become more enjoyable. The resort offers full-hookup back-in and pull-through sites, along with amenities including Wi-Fi, a pool and spa, fitness center, laundry facilities, pet area, and 24-hour patrol. For RVers wanting to experience Las Vegas without leaving their home comforts behind, this resort provides a convenient urban stay.

Concluding thoughts & reflections

September: A season made for slowing down

September has always felt like a special time for RV travel. The rush of summer begins to fade, temperatures become more comfortable, and the road takes on a different rhythm. It is a month when travelers can linger a little longer, explore without the peak-season crowds, and appreciate the subtle changes that signal a new season.

The destinations featured here reflect the many ways RVers can enjoy September—from coastal escapes and historic landmarks to quiet campgrounds and convenient stops along the journey. Each offers something different but all share one common quality: they provide an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the experience of getting there.

After 30 years of RV travel, I’ve learned that the most memorable trips are rarely about how many miles we cover or how many places we check off a list. They are about the moments in between—a quiet morning with coffee outside the RV, a scenic drive taken without hurry, or discovering a place we might otherwise have passed by.

September is an invitation to do exactly that. Find a destination, take your time, and enjoy the journey.

Looking ahead

Looking ahead to your next season on the road? You may also enjoy my RV camping recommendations for July and August along with the September 2025 and October 2025 campground roundups for additional ideas and inspiration for future trips.

Enjoyed this article?

Share it with friends, fellow RVers, or your social network to inspire their next adventure.

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.

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.

Enjoyed this article?

Share it with friends, fellow RVers, or your social network to inspire their next adventure.

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.

Your 2026 RV Bucket List: Top Destinations and Best Campgrounds Month by Month

Plan your year on the road with this month-by-month guide to America’s top RV destinations and campgrounds from scenic getaways to hidden gems ensuring every trip in 2026 is unforgettable

2026 is the perfect year to hit the open road and experience the United States in all its seasonal glory. This month-by-month RV guide pairs unforgettable destinations with the best campgrounds and RV parks giving you the inside track on where to go, what to do, and where to stay along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or embarking on your first long-term journey this guide will help you plan trips that balance scenic adventure with comfort and convenience.

Each month brings a new opportunity to chase the country’s most captivating landscapes. Spend winter exploring sun-soaked deserts and mild coastal escapes, spring hiking through vibrant wildflower fields and national parks, summer enjoying high-altitude lakes, mountain trails, and cooler climates, and fall savoring fiery autumn foliage and harvest festivals. Every stop highlights not just the must-see sights but also carefully selected campgrounds and RV parks—places where you can relax, recharge, and truly connect with nature.

From iconic national parks to hidden gems off the beaten path, this guide ensures you won’t miss the beauty, culture, and seasonal experiences that make each month unique. Inside, you’ll find tips on the best places to park your RV, scenic routes to follow, local attractions to explore, and practical advice to make every leg of your journey smooth and memorable. Whether your goal is adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, this is your ultimate 2026 RV bucket list—designed to inspire and guide your year-round travels from coast to coast.

Buckle up as I guide you through the best RV spots for each month of 2026 complete with must-visit attractions and insider tips to make your adventure unforgettable!

Let’s start the journey with January exploring the top winter RV destinations, campgrounds, and seasonal experiences to kick off your 2026 adventures in style.

Lost Dutchman State Park, Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

January — Desert escapes in Arizona
Start the year under sunny skies and towering saguaros

Start the New Year beneath Arizona’s endless blue skies exploring RV-friendly destinations like Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, and Sedona.

With January’s crisp, sun-soaked days, it’s an ideal month for winter camping at standout parks such as Lost Dutchman, Catalina, and Usery Mountain. Here, towering saguaros, golden light, and vivid sunsets shape every evening into a postcard moment.

For those seeking adventure, RVing in the Sonoran Desert offers boundless possibilities—from wandering the cactus forests of Saguaro National Park to discovering remote beauty in Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. And if you time it right, you can join thousands of travelers at the iconic Quartzsite RV Show and lively swap meets turning your January getaway into a one-of-a-kind desert pilgrimage.

Must-visit attractions

Don’t miss the iconic saguaro forests of Saguaro National Park where winding trails showcase the desert’s majestic flora. Explore the striking red rocks and scenic vistas of Sedona or hike the rugged beauty of Catalina State Park. For a touch of history and culture, stroll through Tucson’s Old Pueblo district and make time for the quirky treasures and bustling energy of the Quartzsite RV Show and swap meets.

Insider tips for January in the desert

Beat the midday warmth by hitting popular trails early and always carry extra water—even in winter. Reserve coveted state park sites well ahead of time as January is prime season for snowbirds. If you’re heading to Quartzsite arrive a day or two before the show to secure the best boondocking spots and avoid heavy traffic. And don’t forget a lightweight jacket—desert nights can still dip into the chill.

Where to camp

Arizona offers a range of camping options from well-equipped state parks to remote desert hideaways perfect for RVers seeking sun, scenery, and adventure.

  • Tucson KOA, Tucson
  • Rincon Country West RV Resort, Tucson
  • Catalina State Park, Tucson
  • Campground USA, Apache Junction
  • Monte Vista RV Resort, Mesa
  • Usery Mountain Regional Park, Mesa
  • Buckeye Ranch RV Resort, Buckeye
  • River Sands RV Resort, Ehrenberg
  • Westwind Golf & RV Resort, Yuma
Highlands Hammock State Park, Florida © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

February — Coastal charm in Florida
Winter warmth along Florida’s sparkling shores

Swap winter’s chill for sun-soaked skies and sparkling waters along Florida’s Gulf and Atlantic coasts, a top pick for RV travelers seeking warmth, relaxation, and scenic beauty. From the vibrant energy of the Florida Keys to the pristine beaches of Naples and the Tampa Bay area, February offers the perfect mix of coastal adventures and laid-back escapes.

February is ideal for beachside camping at gems like Bahia Honda State Park where turquoise waters meet soft sandy shores and sunsets paint the horizon in vivid hues. Along the Gulf Coast, Honeymoon Island, Fort De Soto Park, and Collier-Seminole State Park provide shaded campsites, waterfront views, and easy access to walking trails, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

Must-visit attractions

Catch world-famous sunsets at Mallory Square, wander the historic streets of St. Augustine or Key West, cruise the Overseas Highway, and sample fresh seafood at local eateries. For nature lovers, the mangrove trails of Honeymoon Island and Key Largo offer incredible birdwatching and wildlife experiences.

Insider tips

February is peak season so reserve RV spots early. Plan beach visits and popular trails for early mornings to enjoy quieter conditions and pack layers for cooler evenings. Combine kayaking, biking, and sunset cruises for a multi-day adventure along Florida’s stunning coastlines, balancing relaxation with exploration.

Where to camp

  • Boyd’s Key West Campground, Key West
  • Bluewater Key RV Resort
  • Johnny Roger RV Resort, Marathon
  • The Tides RV Resort, Palmetto
  • Riverbend Motorcoach Resort, La Belle
  • Carrabelle Beach RV Resort, Carrabelle
  • Fort De Soto Campground, Tierra Verde
Lady Bird Johnson Regional Park near Fredericksburg, Texas © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

March — Hill Country wonders in Texas
Where bluebonnets, limestone hills, and adventure meet

As spring awakens across the Lone Star State, March is the perfect month to explore the rolling hills, blooming wildflowers, and warm breezes of Texas Hill Country. From the charming streets of Fredericksburg to the rugged beauty of Enchanted Rock, this region blends outdoor adventure, history, and culinary delights for an unforgettable RV escape.

RVers can set up camp at scenic spots like Pedernales Falls State Park with riverside sites perfect for fishing, hiking, and stargazing or stay at one of the cozy Fredericksburg-area RV resorts which offer easy access to wineries, boutique shops, and local attractions.

Must-visit attractions

No visit to Hill Country is complete without wandering the streets of Fredericksburg where German heritage, boutique shops, and local restaurants create a welcoming small-town vibe. Hike or climb Enchanted Rock, the massive pink granite dome that rewards adventurers with sweeping 360° views. Wine enthusiasts can explore the Texas Wine Trail savoring reds, whites, and rosés at acclaimed local wineries while food lovers enjoy authentic Texas barbecue across Fredericksburg and nearby towns. History buffs will appreciate the LBJ Ranch and National Historical Park where the home, ranch grounds, and museum exhibits provide insight into the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Insider tips

March is peak wildflower season so aim for early morning hikes to see the hills in full bloom. Reserve RV sites in advance especially in the popular Fredericksburg-area. Evenings can be cool, so pack layers, and leave time for leisurely wine tastings, BBQ stops, and day trips to Enchanted Rock and nearby attractions.

Where to camp

  • Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park, Fredericksburg
  • Firefly Resort, Fredericksburg
  • Fredericksburg RV Park, Fredericksburg
  • Buckhorn RV Resort, Kerrville
  • Medina Highpoint Resort, Medina
  • Camp Fimfo, New Braunfels
  • Treeside RV Resort, New Braunfels
  • Stone Oak Ranch RV Resort, Georgetown
  • Longhorn RV Resort, Niederwald
Zion National Park, Utah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

April — National Parks in Utah
Spring adventures amid stunning sandstone formations

April is prime time for RV travel in Utah when crisp spring air, blooming desert flora, and smaller crowds make exploring the iconic landscapes a true pleasure. It’s the perfect month to embark on a road trip through the Mighty Five: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches—each offering dramatic red rock formations, scenic drives, and unforgettable hiking trails.

Set up your RV near Moab where sunrise illuminates towering sandstone arches and panoramic trails invite exploration. Other excellent RV-friendly camping options include Zion’s Watchman Campground, Bryce Canyon National Park’s North Campground, and nearby state parks or private campgrounds offering full hookups and easy access to the parks.

Must-visit attractions

Experience the ethereal hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, hike through the narrow slot canyons and towering cliffs of Zion, and explore the vast canyons and mesas of Canyonlands. Don’t miss the scenic drive along Capitol Reef’s Scenic Byway or the famous arches and rock formations that make Arches National Park one of the most photographed spots in the West. For a touch of adventure, try hiking, biking, or off-road excursions around Moab for a full red rock experience.

Insider tips

Spring weather in Utah can be unpredictable so pack layers and be prepared for cool mornings and warm afternoons. Reserve campgrounds early—especially in Moab and Zion—as April is popular with RV travelers and hikers. Start hikes early to avoid the midday sun and take advantage of quieter trails and viewpoints for stunning photography and a more peaceful experience.

Where to camp

  • Portal RV Resort, Moab
  • Moab KOA Holiday, Moab
  • Sun Outdoors Arches Getaway, Moab
  • Village Camp Moab, Moab
  • Thousand Lakes RV Park, Torrey
  • Capitol Reef RV Park & Glamping, Teasdale
  • Zion River Resort, Virgin
  • Zion White Bison Resort, Virgin
  • Gateway Luxury RV Resort, La Verkin
  • Bryce Valley Ranch RV and Horse Park, Cannonville
  • Grand Plateau RV Resort, Kanab
  • Dark Sky RV Campground, Kanab
The Floral Clock, Frankfurt, Kentucky © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

May — Bluegrass & Bourbon Country in Kentucky
A scenic journey through horse country and historic distilleries

May is the perfect month to explore Kentucky when spring has painted the rolling hills of the Bluegrass Country, horse farms, and Bourbon Country in lush green and mild temperatures make RV travel comfortable. From scenic countryside drives to historic towns, bourbon trails, and outdoor adventures, Kentucky offers a mix of natural beauty, culture, and Southern charm.

Set up your RV at Mammoth Cave National Park, the world’s longest cave system where campgrounds provide easy access to hiking trails, canoeing on the Green River, and guided cave tours. For a quintessential Bluegrass experience, consider camping near Lexington or Bardstown where horse farms, bourbon distilleries, and charming small towns await.

Must-visit attractions

Ride through the rolling hills of the Bluegrass Region stopping to admire historic horse farms and grazing thoroughbreds. Explore Mammoth Cave with its awe-inspiring underground formations and guided tours or hike the trails of Red River Gorge for natural sandstone arches and panoramic overlooks. Tour Kentucky bourbon distilleries, sample local cuisine, and wander the quaint streets of Bardstown or Lexington for history, shops, and Southern hospitality. Don’t miss the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville on the first Saturday of May where you can experience world-class horse racing, festive pageantry, and a true American tradition.

Insider tips

May is ideal for outdoor activities but spring showers are common so pack rain gear and layers for cooler mornings and evenings. Book campgrounds early especially near Mammoth Cave, Red River Gorge, or Louisville if attending the Derby as May is popular with RVers and event-goers. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to explore trails and horse farms capturing the Bluegrass Region at its most picturesque.

Where to camp

  • Grandma’s RV Park, Elizabethville
  • Whispering Hills RV Park, Georgetown
  • Little Patvh of Heaven Campground, Bardstown
  • My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campground, Bardstown
  • Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington
  • Renfro Valley RV Park, Mount Vernon
  • Cave Country RV Campground, Cave City
  • Oh! Kentucky RV Park & Campground, Berea
  • Cummins Ferry RV Resort, Salvisia
  • Duck Creek RV Park, Paducah
El Malpais National Monument, New Mexico © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

June — High Desert adventures in New Mexico
Red mesas, open skies, and endless desert trails

June is a fantastic time to explore the high deserts, dramatic landscapes, and cultural richness of New Mexico. With warm days and clear skies, RV travelers can combine natural beauty with historic towns, unique cuisine, and vibrant local culture. From the red rocks of national parks to the adobe charm of Santa Fe, June showcases the Land of Enchantment at its best.

Set up your RV near iconic destinations such as Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Bandelier National Monument, White Sands National Park, or El Morro National Monument where campgrounds provide convenient access to hiking, stargazing, and striking desert landscapes. El Malpais National Monument is a must-visit for its lava flows and sandstone bluffs. For a more immersive cultural experience, stay near Santa Fe or Albuquerque where arts, history, and Southwest cuisine abound.

Must-visit attractions

Explore the natural wonders of Carlsbad Caverns, hike the cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument and wander the otherworldly gypsum dunes of White Sands National Park. Discover the rugged lava flows and sandstone formations at El Malpais National Monument, and marvel at the historic inscriptions and ancient pueblo ruins carved into the cliffs at El Morro National Monument. Don’t miss the charming adobe streets, art galleries, and historic plazas of Santa Fe or sample authentic New Mexican cuisine—where roasted green chile, traditional enchiladas, and local flavors are a highlight of any visit. In Hatch, known as the chile capital of the world, taste the iconic Hatch green chile and pick up fresh roasted peppers at roadside stands or local markets.

Insider tips

June can bring warm desert days, so pack sun protection and plenty of water for outdoor adventures. Reserve RV sites near popular national parks and monuments early as this is a popular month for travelers. Plan a day trip to El Malpais from a nearby campground and time your visit to Hatch for the chile harvest or local festivals to experience the full flavor of New Mexico. Evenings are perfect for stargazing in the high desert, where dark skies reveal a spectacular view of the Milky Way.

Where to camp

  • Rusty’s RV Ranch, Rodeo
  • Rose Valley RV Ranch, Silver City
  • Santa Fe Skies RV Park, Santa Fe
  • Taos Monte BelloRV Park, Taos
  • Route 66 RV Resort, Albuquerque
  • Bud’s Place RV Park, Carlsbad
  • Hacienda RV Resort, Las Cruces
  • Sunny Acres RV Park, Las Cruces
  • Las Cruces KOA Journey
La Connor, Washington © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

July — Pacific Northwest road trip
Lush forests, rugged coastlines, and scenic byways

July is the ideal month to escape into the cool, green beauty of the Pacific Northwest where towering evergreens, misty waterfalls, and rugged coastlines create one of the country’s most unforgettable summer RV experiences. In Oregon, RV travelers can wander through lush forests, chase iconic waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, and explore dramatic coastal viewpoints along Highway 101—all under comfortably warm midsummer skies.

Cross into Washington and continue your journey across a landscape defined by mountains, rainforest, and volcanic history. The Olympic Peninsula offers everything from moss-draped trails in the Hoh Rain Forest to wide, tranquil beaches at Rialto and Shi Shi. Farther east, RV campers will find excellent access to Mount Rainier National Park where wildflower meadows, glacial vistas, and scenic drives make for spectacular summer days. Venture south to witness the powerful story of rebirth at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument where viewpoints and interpretive centers highlight the 1980 eruption’s impact.

Both states deliver exceptional July RV travel with abundant campgrounds, cool evenings, and bucket-list scenery at every turn.

Must-visit attractions

From Oregon’s iconic Columbia River Gorge where waterfalls plunge through emerald canyons to the rugged viewpoints and sea stacks along the Oregon Coast, July offers endless scenic highlights. In Washington, the wonders continue with the mossy trails and glacier-capped peaks of Olympic National Park where you can wander from rain forest to coastline in a single day. Journey south to Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument to witness the dramatic landscape reshaped by the 1980 eruption, then head east to the alpine meadows and sweeping panoramas of Mount Rainier National Park—a must-see for wildflower lovers and mountain scenery enthusiasts alike.

Insider tips

July is peak season so reserve popular campgrounds well in advance. Coastal mornings may bring fog but afternoons usually clear to reveal postcard-worthy views. Bring layers—temperatures drop quickly near the coast and in higher elevations especially around Mount Rainier.

Where to camp

  • Mounthaven Resort, Ashford, WA
  • KOA Journey, Port Angeles, WA
  • Toutle River RV Resort, Castle Rock, WA
  • Sea Perch RV Resort, Yachats, OR
  • Bay Point Landing, Coos Bay, OR
  • Pacific Shores Motor Coach Resort, Newport, OR
  • Turtle Rock RV Resort, Gold Beach, OR
  • South Beach State Park Campground, OR
  • Fort Stevens State Park Campground, OR
  • Silver Falls State Park Campground, OR
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

August — Mountain magic in Colorado
Alpine peaks, wildflower meadows, and crisp mountain air

August is Colorado at its finest—warm, sunny days, crisp alpine nights, and mountain scenery so vivid it feels painted. RV travelers flock to the Centennial State this month for high-elevation escapes, wildflower-filled meadows, and the refreshing coolness of the Rockies. Whether you’re cruising along scenic byways, settling into a lakeside campground, or exploring charming

Must-visit attractions

Start in Rocky Mountain National Park where Trail Ridge Road climbs above the clouds and offers sweeping tundra views. Wander through Estes Park for elk sightings and classic mountain charm then continue to the Maroon Bells near Aspen—one of the most photographed landscapes in the country. Head south to Great Sand Dunes National Park where towering dunes rise dramatically against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Explore the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park where centuries-old ancestral Puebloan structures offer a fascinating window into the past. Explore the dramatic cliffs and deep chasms of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park or soak in the natural hot springs of Pagosa Springs and Glenwood Springs. Don’t miss the artsy vibes of Crested Butte, the alpine lakes around Ouray, or the historic mining routes of the San Juan Skyway.mountain towns, Colorado delivers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Insider tips

August can still bring afternoon thunderstorms especially at higher elevations—plan hikes early in the day and be off summits by early afternoon. Many of Colorado’s most scenic roads and mountain passes like the Million Dollar Highway can be narrow and steep; take your time and consider leaving the RV at camp for day trips. Wildflowers peak in early August in places like Crested Butte and the San Juans, so bring a camera. And thanks to cooler alpine nights, this is one of the best states for comfortable summer camping.

Where to camp

  • Morefield Campground. Mesa Verde National Park
  • Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Park, Estes Park
  • Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA, Estes Park
  • Colorado: West View RV Park, Dolores
  • The Views RV Park and Campground, Dolores
  • Durango RV Resort, Durango
  • Ouray KOA Journey, Ouray
  • Colorado Springs KOA Holiday, Colorado Springs

September — Classic New England charm
New England’s iconic beauty in the gentle glow of fall

September ushers in one of the most magical times to explore New England as cooler temperatures and the first hints of fall color transform forests, coastlines, and historic towns. It’s a month tailor-made for RV travelers who love crisp mornings, scenic drives, and destinations rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From rugged shores to mountain summits, September showcases New England at its finest.

Newport, Rhode Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Must-visit attractions

Begin your journey in Acadia National Park where granite peaks, sparkling harbors, and the scenic Park Loop Road capture the rugged soul of the Maine coast. Wander through Bar Harbor for lobster rolls and waterfront strolls before cruising south to Newport, Rhode Island where Gilded Age mansions, cliffside walks, and sailing culture highlight the region’s seaside elegance. Head inland to the New Hampshire Lakes Region, home to Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake where calm waters and rolling hills create an idyllic late-summer escape. From there, ride the legendary Mount Washington Cog Railway climbing above the treeline to the highest peak in the Northeast for sweeping views. Don’t miss a stop in Boston where cobblestone streets, historical sites, and world-class museums offer a vibrant blend of past and present. As September deepens, make your way to Vermont where covered bridges, red barns, and early-season foliage begin to set the hills ablaze with color.

Insider tips

September is shoulder season in many New England destinations—crowds are lighter but weekends can still book quickly especially in Acadia and Vermont. Coastal mornings can be foggy so plan photography and scenic drives for late afternoon. The Mount Washington Cog Railway can be chilly even in early fall so bring layers for the summit. And for the best early foliage, aim for higher elevations in northern Vermont near Stowe, Smugglers’ Notch, or the Northeast Kingdom.

Where to camp

  • Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, Bar Harbor, ME
  • Camden Hills State Park Campground, Camden, ME
  • Normady Farms Family Camping Resort, Foxboro, MA
  • Apple Island Resort, Hero, VT
  • Quechee/Pine Valley KOA, White River Junction, VT
  • Little River State Park, Waterbury, VT
  • Sugar Ridge RV Village & Campground, Danville, VT
  • Lafayette Place Campground at Franconia State Park, Franconia, NH
  • The Bluffs RV Resort, Freedom, NH
  • Countryside RV Park, Griswold, CT
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

October — Fall color through Virginia & North Carolina
Autumn ablaze along the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah

October brings a spectacular display of fall foliage to Virginia and the Carolinas transforming the Appalachian Mountains into a tapestry of fiery reds, golds, and deep amber tones. For RV travelers, this region offers some of the most iconic autumn drives in America—perfect temperatures, sweeping vistas, and mountain roads that wind through forests glowing with color. Whether you’re chasing overlooks, hiking leaf-lined trails, or exploring charming mountain towns, October in the southern Appalachians is a true seasonal highlight.

Must-visit attractions

Start your journey in Shenandoah National Park where Skyline Drive stretches for 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains offering dozens of overlooks drenched in fall color. Continue south onto the legendary Blue Ridge Parkway often called “America’s Favorite Drive” where rolling ridgelines, tunnels, and photo-worthy stops appear around every bend. Farther southwest immerse yourself in the misty forests of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most biodiverse park in the country and one of the best places to witness autumn’s brilliance. Cap off your trip with a drive along the Cherohala Skyway, a high-elevation route connecting North Carolina and Tennessee known for its sweeping mountain panoramas, crisp alpine air, and far fewer crowds than its famous neighbors.

Insider tips

October is peak leaf season so aim to drive early to avoid crowds at popular overlooks. Elevation plays a big role in foliage timing—higher elevations along the Parkway and Skyway turn earlier, while lower valleys peak later in the month. Expect cooler temperatures and potentially windy conditions on ridgelines; layers are essential. For the best balance of color and comfort, mid-October is often the sweet spot across much of the region.

Where to camp

  • Luray RV Resort and Campground, Luray, VA
  • Shenandoah Valley Campground, Verona, VA
  • Big Meadows Campground, Shenandoah National Park, VA
  • Shenandoah River State Park, Bentonville, VA
  • Rivers Edge Mountain RV Resort, Murphy, NC
  • Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort, Lake Toxaway, NC
  • Happy Holiday RV Village, Cherokee, NC
  • Tanglewood RV Campground, Clemmon, NC
Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

November — Southern comfort in South Carolina & Georgia
Charleston, Savannah, and the heart of Southern charm

November brings mild temperatures, bright blue skies, and a lingering touch of fall color to South Carolina and Georgia making it a perfect month for RV travelers seeking coastal beauty, historic charm, and low-country flavor. This is the season when the heat and humidity fade, crowds thin out, and the region’s natural and cultural treasures shine. From moss-draped oaks to quiet beaches and serene waterways, November invites you to slow down and savor the coastal South.

Must-visit attractions

Begin in Charleston where cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and world-class cuisine offer a welcoming blend of history and hospitality. Wander the historic district, tour Fort Sumter, or stroll the iconic Battery seawall. Continue south into Savannah, Georgia with its live oaks, elegant squares, and historic storytelling, and explore the River Street waterfront for charming shops and cafes. Just offshore, Cumberland Island beckons with pristine beaches, wild horses, and maritime forests—accessible by ferry for a quiet island adventure.

Nature lovers will delight in the sprawling Okefenokee Swamp, a vast wetland teeming with wildlife, boardwalk trails, and canoeing opportunities. Wrap up your journey in northern Georgia where places like Tallulah Gorge, Amicalola Falls, and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains still glow with late-season foliage.

Insider tips

November is shoulder season along the Carolina and Georgia coasts ideal for smaller crowds and easier campground reservations. Ocean waters may be cooler but beach walks and island excursions are perfect this time of year. For Cumberland Island, reserve ferry tickets in advance. If exploring the Okefenokee Swamp, plan for early departures and bring insect repellent. Northern Georgia’s mountain nights can be chilly so pack layers and enjoy the final bursts of fall color.

Where to camp

  • Ocean Lakes Family Campground, Myrtle Beach, SC
  • Carolina Pines, Conway, SC
  • Camp Lake Jasper, Hardeeville, SC
  • Hilton Head Island Motorcoach, Hilton Head Island, SC
  • Savannah Lakes RV Resort, Hardeeville, SC
  • Big Rig Friendly RV Resort, Columbia, SC
  • Skidaway Island State Park Campground, Tybee Island, GA
  • CreekFire RV Resort, Savannah, GA
  • River Vista RV Resort, Dillard, GA
  • Willow Valley RV Resort, Rabun Gap, GA
  • Crossing Creek RV Resort, Blairsville, GA
  • Talona Ridge RV Resort, Ellijay, GA
  • Winding Waters Riverfront RV Resort, Cartersville, GA
  • Crooked River State Park, St. Marys, GA
Tahquitz Canyon, Palm Springs, California © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

December — Sun & surf in Southern California
From the Pacific coast to desert escapes, winter in warmth

December is a delightful time to escape winter chill and soak up the sun in Southern California where mild temperatures, sparkling coastlines, and festive holiday vibes make for an unforgettable RV getaway. From the golden beaches of Los Angeles and San Diego to the rugged desert landscapes inland, Southern California offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and year-round outdoor adventure.

Must-visit attractions

Kick off your journey along the Pacific Coast from Santa Monica to La Jolla where sandy beaches, tide pools, and coastal boardwalks invite exploration. Visit San Diego for its historic Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and world-famous zoo or enjoy whale watching along the coastline.

Inland, the Coachella Valley and Palm Springs offer a desert playground of golf courses, art galleries, mid-century architecture, and hiking in nearby mountains. Explore Joshua Tree National Park for iconic rock formations, desert trails, and starry night skies. Don’t miss Temecula where rolling vineyards make for a perfect wine-tasting stop. For a sweet seasonal treat, stop in Julian, a charming mountain town famous for its historic gold-mining district and legendary apple pies.

Insider tips

December mornings and evenings along the coast can be cool so pack layers while desert areas like Joshua Tree and Palm Springs are sunny but can have chilly nights. Beaches are quiet and perfect for long walks, photography, and wildlife watching. Desert hikes are best mid-morning to afternoon and wine tasting or exploring vineyards in Temecula is ideal on sunny winter days. Popular spots like Palm Springs and Joshua Tree fill quickly over the holidays so make campground reservations well in advance.

Where to camp

  • Mission Bay RV Resort, San Diego
  • Campland on the Bay, San Diego
  • Sun Outdoors Dan Diego Bay, Chula Vista
  • Costa Vista RV Resort, Chula Vista
  • Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort, San Dumas
  • Coachella Lakes RV Resort, Coachella
  • Paradise RV Park, Desert Hot Springs

Final thoughts — A year on the road
A journey through landscapes, culture, and time

A year of RV travel is more than a collection of destinations—it’s a journey of discovery, reflection, and connection. From the sun-drenched deserts of Arizona to the autumnal splendor of the Appalachian Mountains, each month has offered its own rhythm, landscape, and story.

Traveling by RV allows us to slow down, immerse ourselves in nature, and witness the small details that often go unnoticed from the highway.

As John Muir once said, “The mountains are calling and I must go.” Whether you answered that call in Colorado, New England, or the Pacific Northwest, the mountains, rivers, and deserts became more than scenic backdrops—they became companions along the journey.

The road also teaches us patience and resilience echoing Ralph Waldo Emerson’s reminder: “Life is a journey, not a destination.” In every sunrise over the Gulf Coast, every desert sunset in New Mexico, and every starlit sky in Utah, there is a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the moment.

And, perhaps most importantly, RV travel is a celebration of freedom and curiosity. As Henry David Thoreau observed, “Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves.” Every twist of a scenic byway, every new town explored, and every campsite chosen has been an opportunity to embrace discovery, both outward and inward.

From coastlines to mountains, deserts to rivers, this year has shown that the open road offers endless stories, memories, and lessons. Wherever the wheels turn next, let each journey be guided by curiosity, gratitude, and the simple joy of being in motion.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 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.

Best RV Destinations: RVing through the Seasons – Your Year-Round 2026 Guide

From sunny deserts to sun-soaked shores, discover the perfect RV destination every month. Your 2026 adventure awaits—season by season, mile by mile.

There’s something magical about exploring America from the comfort of your RV. Each month brings its own palette of colors, landscapes, and experiences—whether it’s the desert glow of Arizona, the vibrant wildflowers of spring, or the fiery reds of autumn in New England. 2026 is your invitation to chase the seasons, capture breathtaking vistas, and discover the country one stop at a time.

From the towering red rock cliffs of Zion National Park, to the misty trails of the Great Smoky Mountains, to the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon, this year-round guide will help you plan your route, highlight the best seasonal experiences, and give you ideas for perfect photo stops along the way.

Cathedral Rock, Sedona, Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

January – Desert escapes & mild winter weather

Kick off the year in Arizona’s sun-drenched deserts, where quiet trails, towering red rocks, and clear skies make every photo frame perfect.

January invites you to embrace the warm glow of the Southwest—one of the most rewarding ways to begin a new year on the road. With mild temperatures, crisp air, and wide-open desert skies, this month sets the stage for relaxed exploration and unrushed travel. Start your journey in the Verde Valley where Sedona’s red rock formations take on a soft winter radiance and the surrounding desert offers peaceful, crowd-free hikes.

From there, follow sunlit highways west to Las Vegas where the surrounding desert landscapes—Valley of Fire, Lake Mead, and the Mojave—shine brightest in winter’s gentle light. Continue your journey north to Mesquite and St. George, Utah, a gateway to even more red rock beauty and sunny winter trails. Each stop delivers stunning vistas, quiet overlooks, and plenty of opportunities for early-year photography.

January scenic highlights

  • Sedona & Verde Valley (AZ) – Red-rock retreat in the heart of Arizona
  • Las Vegas desert region (NV) – Desert wildlands just beyond the glimmer of the Strip
  • Valley of Fire State Park (NV) – A blazing world of sandstone wonders
  • Mesquite (NV) – Sun-soaked days and a slower desert pace
  • St. George (UT) – A bright blend of red cliffs, culture, and outdoor adventure

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Verde Ranch RV Resort – Camp Verde, AZ
  • Oasis RV Resort – Las Vegas, NV
  • Mesquite Trails RV Resort – Mesquite, NV
  • Settlers Point RV Resort – Washington, UT

As the winter sun continues to warm the Southwest, February turns attention eastward to the sunny Gulf Coast where beaches, bayous, and coastal towns come alive with springtime charm.

Alabama Gulf Coast © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

February – Coastal retreats along the Gulf

Chase winter sun along the Gulf Coast and Florida Keys capturing tranquil beaches, charming coastal towns, and migratory birds in your lens

February is the ideal month to hug the Gulf Coast in search of sunshine, soft waves, and relaxed coastal living. Start your journey along the Florida Gulf Coast where places like Fort Myers, Naples, and the Tampa Bay area offer mild temperatures, clear skies, and endless opportunities for seaside walks and sunset photography. The beaches are quieter this time of year and the coastal wildlife—from pelicans to dolphins—adds life to every shoreline.

Heading west, the Gulf unfolds into a rich blend of culture and coastal beauty. Over in Gulf Shores and nearby Dauphin Island, quiet winter beaches, nature trails, and bird-rich marshes offer a serene stretch of coastline perfect for relaxed exploration. Explore Mobile, Alabama with its deep Mardi Gras heritage or continue to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, a small, artsy beach town with charming streets and waterfront viewpoints. Farther along, Louisiana’s Cajun Country offers a completely different rhythm—wander the streets of Breaux Bridge and Lafayette, savor local cuisine, and cruise the bayous where moss-draped cypress trees create one-of-a-kind photo backdrops.

If you’re seeking something wild and scenic, drive the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road where coastal marshes, wildlife refuges, and sweeping Gulf views deliver a quieter, more natural version of the shoreline. And of course—if your timing aligns—Mardi Gras celebrations across the Gulf bring color, energy, and uniquely Southern culture to the roadsides and town squares.

February scenic highlights

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Fort De Soto Park Campground – St. Petersburg, FL
  • The Tides RV Resort – Palmetto, FL
  • Gulf State Park Campground – Gulf Shores, AL
  • Meaher State Park Campground – Spanish Fort, AL (near Mobile)
  • Buccaneer State Park – Waveland, MS (near Bay St. Louis)
  • Poche’s RV Park & Fish-N-Camp – Breaux Bridge, LA
  • Sam Houston Jones State Park – Lake Charles, LA

As February’s Gulf Coast adventures wind down, March beckons with the blooming deserts and rugged canyons of Arizona where wildflowers, saguaros, and historic trails await RV travelers.

Mexican poppies along Pinal Parkway, Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

March – Warming days in the Desert Southwest

Spring blooms transform Arizona’s deserts into a riot of color—perfect for vibrant RV snapshots and desert hikes

March is one of the most rewarding months to explore the American Southwest. The winter chill begins to loosen its grip, wildflowers wake in soft waves of yellow and purple, and the desert offers that perfect balance of warm days and cool, quiet nights. This is when the Sonoran landscape feels most alive—sunlit, fragrant, and inviting—making it an ideal time to wander its storied roads and rugged trails.

Your journey might begin along the legendary Apache Trail where volcanic cliffs twist beside mirror-calm lakes and every curve reveals another postcard-worthy canyon view. The route leads you past the shimmering blue waters of Canyon Lake, a perfect stop for a scenic shoreline walk or a desert-sunset boat cruise.

Farther along, the reconstructed streets of Goldfield Ghost Town offer a playful taste of Arizona’s mining past—complete with saloons, dusty boardwalks, and Superstition Mountain rising dramatically behind it. A few miles beyond, the tiny outpost of Tortilla Flat greets travelers with its famous old-west ambiance, historic stagecoach roots, and walls papered with thousands of dollar bills left by visitors from around the world.

As you approach the Superstition Mountains, spring color spills across Lost Dutchman State Park turning hikes like Siphon Draw into immersive walks through desert bloom and frontier lore.

Continue south and the terrain shifts into the broad, open foothills of Oro Valley where Catalina State Park sits cradled beneath the Santa Catalinas. In March, the air is clear, the birdlife abundant, and the trails—lined with creosote, cholla, and early wildflowers—feel tailor-made for warm afternoons. The season is equally ideal for visiting Saguaro National Park where thousands of saguaros stand like silent sentinels across two distinct districts. Whether you’re winding through the Rincon foothills or exploring the rocky ridges west of Tucson, the desert is at its best right now.

Not far away, Sabino Canyon channels the snowmelt-fed waters of Sabino Creek creating rare, seasonal cascades and cool pools tucked between sunlit walls. It’s one of Tucson’s springtime treasures—perfect for a leisurely tram ride or a deeper canyon hike.

As you drift toward the Phoenix area, the vast network of Maricopa County’s regional parks opens up miles of spring-perfect exploration. The soft hills around Usery Mountain glow with poppies while Cave Creek Regional Park offers big skies, quiet trails, and a true sense of desert solitude—ideal for the kind of crisp mornings only March can deliver.

Balance the outdoor adventure with moments of culture and calm at Mission San Xavier del Bac, the dazzling “White Dove of the Desert.” Its cool interior and centuries-old artwork contrast beautifully with the bright desert around it. And to end your month on a slower, more artistic note, spend an afternoon in Tubac, a welcoming village where galleries, cafés, and leafy river paths make spring feel like it moves just a little more gently.

March scenic highlights

  • Apache Trail – One of Arizona’s most scenic byways, winding through volcanic cliffs and desert lakes with classic Old West charm
  • Canyon Lake – A striking emerald reservoir framed by towering canyon walls, perfect for photography, lakeside walks, and boat cruises
  • Goldfield Ghost Town – A photogenic Old West–style mining town offering unique frontier character beneath the dramatic Superstition Mountains
  • Tortilla Flat – A tiny, historic stagecoach stop with quirky charm, rustic buildings, and sweeping desert vistas
  • Lost Dutchman State Park – Golden wildflowers and rugged trails in the shadow of the iconic Superstition Mountains
  • Catalina State Park – Expansive desert landscapes, birdlife-rich trails, and early spring blooms at the base of the Santa Catalinas
  • Saguaro National Park – Fields of towering saguaros and classic Sonoran Desert scenery at its springtime best
  • Sabino Canyon – Seasonal creeks, canyon walls, and shaded riparian pockets ideal for hiking and photography
  • Usery Mountain Regional Park – Desert poppies, panoramic views, and standout trails like Wind Cave
  • Cave Creek Regional Park – Quiet desert hills, wide-open skies, and excellent wildlife viewing
  • Mission San Xavier del Bac – A stunning historic mission offering art, architecture, and peaceful courtyards
  • Tubac – An artsy, historic village perfect for slow wandering, gallery visits, and early-spring relaxation

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Usery Mountain Regional Park Campground – Mesa, AZ
  • Cave Creek Regional Park Campground– Cave Creek, AZ
  • Lost Dutchman State Park Campground – Apache Junction, AZ
  • Campground USA – Apache Junction, AZ
  • Catalina State Park Campground – Oro Valley, AZ
  • Rincon Country West RV Resort – Tucson, AZ

As the Sonoran Desert blooms fade, April shifts the journey north to Utah where towering red rocks, scenic byways, and the Mighty 5 invite exploration and adventure.

Kodachrome Basin State Park, Utah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

April – Exploring Utah’s Mighty 5 and beyond

April brings perfect weather for hiking, canyoneering, and capturing Utah’s iconic red rock landscapes at their springtime best

April is prime time for exploring Utah’s vast red rock landscapes. With spring temperatures perfect for hiking and sightseeing, this month invites RV travelers to experience not just the Mighty 5—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—but also a collection of nearby wonders that reveal the state’s lesser-known splendor.

Start in Kanab, often called “Little Hollywood” for its cinematic landscapes. This charming town provides an ideal base for exploring the surrounding parks and offers a taste of western history, colorful cliffs, and wide-open desert skies. From there, head to Kodachrome Basin State Park where towering sandstone spires rise dramatically from the desert floor providing one of Utah’s most photogenic spring landscapes. Not far away, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park showcases vibrant pink sand stretching across rolling desert hills, a uniquely stunning backdrop for sunrise or sunset photography.

Further east, venture to Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area where turquoise water winds through red rock canyons. Scenic drives and boat trips reveal hidden coves and sweeping desert vistas perfect for early spring photos. Nearby, Monument Valley offers the classic cinematic red rock mesas and buttes that have defined the American West for generations and seeing them in April’s soft light is unforgettable.

Of course, no April itinerary is complete without experiencing the Mighty 5. Zion National Park delights with its red sandstone cliffs and winding canyons while Bryce Canyon amazes with hoodoos bathed in soft spring light. Arches and Canyonlands offer dramatic rock formations and endless hiking trails and Capitol Reef invites exploration of its colorful cliffs, orchards, and historic Fruita district.

From epic vistas to quiet desert valleys, April in Utah is a photographer’s paradise, a hiker’s delight, and a perfect month for RV adventurers seeking both iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

April scenic highlights

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Dark Skies RV Park – Kanab, UT
  • Grand Plateau RV Resort – Kanab, UT
  • Portal RV Resort – Moab, UT
  • Sun Outdoors Arches Getaway – Moab, UT
  • The View Campground – Monument Valley, UT
  • Wahweap Campground & RV Park – Page, AZ
  • Antelope Point RV Park – Page, AZ

After a month of Utah’s red rock wonders and iconic national parks, May invites RV travelers eastward to the rolling hills, rivers, and coastal charms of Kentucky and the Carolinas.

May – Rolling countryside and coastal charms

May is perfect for exploring America’s heartlands and coastal beauty—historic towns, gentle rivers, and spring blooms await on a relaxed RV adventure

May brings warm, inviting weather to the central and coastal regions of Kentucky and the Carolinas making it ideal for RV travel. Begin in central Kentucky where the Bluegrass region unfolds in rolling hills dotted with horse farms and historic towns. Explore quaint communities like Lexington and Bardstown where bourbon distilleries, Civil War history, and local markets provide a taste of the region’s rich culture. Meander along scenic byways following the Kentucky River or past miles of blooming farmland capturing the essence of spring in America’s heartland.

Heading east toward North Carolina, the Piedmont region offers charming small towns, historic sites, and riverfront escapes. Wilmington on the coast provides a blend of colonial history, tree-lined streets, and access to nearby barrier islands with sandy beaches. Along the way, the Outer Banks beckon with wide sandy shores, lighthouse views, and springtime bird migrations.

Crossing into South Carolina, the coastal Lowcountry shines. Charleston dazzles with cobblestone streets, historic plantations, and colorful waterfronts. Explore Beaufort for charming marsh views and heritage sites and Hilton Head Island for serene coastal trails. No coastal tour of the Carolinas would be complete without a stop at Myrtle Beach, a vibrant seaside destination offering wide sandy beaches, boardwalk fun, spring festivals, and endless photo opportunities along its bustling coastline.

From horse farms in Kentucky to barrier islands along the Carolinas, May offers a gentle, scenic RV adventure filled with cultural stops, riverside views, and flowering landscapes—perfect for travelers who prefer easy drives, historic charm, and the soft beauty of spring.

Bluegrass Country, Kentucky © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

May scenic highlights

  • Lexington & Bluegrass Region (KY) – Rolling horse farms and bourbon country
  • Bardstown (KY) – Historic downtown, distilleries, and local culture
  • Kentucky River Scenic Byway (KY) – Gentle river views and rural landscapes
  • Wilmington (NC) – Historic streets and access to barrier islands
  • Outer Banks (NC) – Sandy beaches, lighthouses, and springtime wildlife
  • Charleston (SC) – Historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and waterfront charm
  • Beaufort, SC) – Coastal Lowcountry town with marsh views and historic sites
  • Hilton Head Island (SC) – Beaches, biking trails, and serene coastal landscapes
  • Myrtle Beach (SC) – Vibrant boardwalk, sandy beaches, and spring festivals
  • Lowcountry plantations & coastal marshes (SC) – Cultural history and springtime beauty

Suggested RV Parks & Campgrounds

  • Whispering Hills RV Park – Georgetown, KT
  • Grandma’s RV Camping – Shepherdsville, KT
  • Cape Hatteras/Outer Banks KOA – Rodanthe, NC
  • Ocean Lakes Family Campground – Myrtle Beach, SC
  • Hilton Head Island Motorcoach – Hilton Head Island, SC
  • James Island County Park Campground – Charleston, SC

As spring blooms fade along the Bluegrass and coastal Carolinas, June turns the journey westward toward Colorado’s alpine peaks and California’s towering sequoias and volcanic landscapes.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

June – Colorado & California National Parks

From Colorado’s alpine peaks to California’s towering sequoias and volcanic landscapes, June offers unforgettable vistas for your RV journey

June is the perfect month for alpine escapes and western adventures. In Colorado, the high country beckons with cool breezes, wildflower-filled meadows, and sweeping mountain vistas. Explore Mesa Verde National Park and Rocky Mountain National Park where jagged peaks, serene alpine lakes, and endless hiking trails make for memorable days under sunny skies. Whether driving along scenic byways or tackling mountain trails, the grandeur of the Rockies is unmatched in early summer.

Heading west into California, the landscape transforms dramatically. In Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks massive trees soar toward the sky and deep canyons reveal the power of nature sculpted over millennia. A visit to Lassen Volcanic National Park introduces a different kind of awe—boiling springs, steaming fumaroles, and rugged volcanic peaks framed by alpine forests. Scenic drives along California Highway 49 take you through historic gold country, past rolling foothills and towering peaks, offering countless photo opportunities and side hikes into untouched wilderness. The Mount Shasta area adds a dramatic northern highlight with glacier-tipped peaks, waterfalls, and peaceful alpine meadows that feel miles from the modern world.

From the high-altitude splendor of Colorado to the ancient forests and volcanic wonders of California, June in the western United States provides endless options for hiking, photography, and unforgettable RV adventures.

June scenic highlights

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Morefield Campground – Mesa Verde National Park, CO
  • Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA – Estes Park, CO
  • Sequoia Resort & RV Park – Badger, CA
  • Red Bluff KOA Journey – Red Bluff, CA
  • Jackson Rancheria Casino RV Park – Jackson, CA
  • Mount Shasta KOA/Mount Shasta – Mt. Shasta, CA

As June’s western peaks and giant sequoias fade from view, July turns eastward to the rivers, historic towns, and coastal charms of Virginia and West Virginia.

July – Virginia & West Virginia: Rivers, history, and lowland adventures

July brings warm summer days perfect for exploring rivers, historic towns, and scenic lowlands along the East Coast

July is ideal for RV travelers exploring the rivers, historic sites, and coastal charms of Virginia and West Virginia. Start in West Virginia with the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve where the New River carves deep canyons through sandstone cliffs. Summer offers rafting, kayaking, hiking, and iconic views from the famous New River Gorge Bridge. Nearby, Babcock State Park provides classic West Virginia charm with riverfront trails, the historic Glade Creek Grist Mill, and peaceful woodland camping.

Cross into Virginia where history and rivers intersect. The Historic Triangle—Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown—offer immersive colonial history, living history museums, and beautiful waterfronts along the James and York Rivers. Further east, the Chesapeake Bay region invites RV travelers to explore maritime towns, seafood shacks, scenic byways, and coastal parks, including beaches, marshes, and kayak-friendly waterways.

From river adventures to living history, July in Virginia and West Virginia balances summer fun, culture, and scenic landscapes. Cooler mountain excursions are saved for later in the fall, allowing travelers to focus on waterways, historic towns, and lowland vistas.

Historic Jamestown, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

July scenic highlights

  • New River Gorge National Park & Preserve (WV) – Whitewater rafting, cliffside trails, and iconic bridge views
  • Babcock State Park (WV) – Historic Glade Creek Grist Mill, riverside trails, and woodland scenery
  • Historic Triangle – Jamestown, Williamsburg, Yorktown (VA) – Colonial history, museums, and waterfronts
  • Chesapeake Bay Region (VA) – Coastal towns, seafood, rivers, and bay views
  • Rivers of Virginia & West Virginia – New River, James River, York River – boating, kayaking, and scenic drives

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • The Outpost at New River Gorge – Fayetteville, WV
  • Rifrafters Campground – Fayetteville, WV
  • American Heritage RV Park – Williamsburg, VA
  • Thousand Trails Williamsburg – Williamsburg, VA
  • Bethpage Camp-Resort – Urbanna, VA
  • Cheaspeake Campground – Chesapeake, VA 
  • Sun Outdoors Cape Charles – Cape Charles, VA

As the heat of mid-summer settles in, August leads you westward to cooler mountain air and refreshing coastal breezes in the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest.

Mount St. Helens, Washington © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

August – Cool Mountain & Coastal Retreats

Beat the summer heat with high-elevation escapes and NW coastal adventures where crisp mountain air meets breathtaking vistas

August calls for high-elevation and northwest coastal retreats to escape the peak summer heat. Northern Rockies beckon with alpine lakes, verdant meadows, and forested trails offering the perfect backdrop for hiking, photography, and relaxing in the cool mountain air. Yellowstone National Park provides geothermal wonders, wildlife spotting, and dramatic landscapes while Glacier National Park showcases pristine alpine lakes, jagged peaks, and scenic drives along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Further west, Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks in Washington provide lush forests, glacier-fed rivers, and rugged coastal vistas. A visit to Mount St. Helens offers insight into volcanic landscapes with hiking trails and interpretive centers that highlight the area’s dramatic recovery. Across the Sierra Nevada, alpine meadows, flowing streams, and shaded forest trails provide refreshing relief from summer heat with countless spots for photography, fishing, and short hikes.

The Oregon and Washington coasts are ideal for RV travelers seeking dramatic seascapes, sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns. Scenic drives along the Pacific coastline allow for leisurely stops at lighthouses, tide pools, and waterfront restaurants making August a perfect month to combine mountain air with coastal exploration.

August scenic highlights

  • Northern Rockies – Alpine lakes, verdant meadows, forest trails
  • Yellowstone National Park (WY/MT/ID) – Geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife
  • Glacier National Park (MT) – Dramatic peaks, Going-to-the-Sun Road, alpine lakes
  • Mount Rainier National Park (WA) – Glacial peaks, wildflower meadows, and hiking trails
  • Olympic National Park (WA) – Rainforests, mountains, and Pacific coastline
  • Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument (WA) – Volcanic landscapes and interpretive trails
  • Sierra Nevada (CA/NV) – Alpine meadows, flowing streams, and forest trails
  • Oregon & Washington Coast – Lighthouses, beaches, tide pools, and scenic coastal towns

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Red Rock RV Park – Island Park, ID
  • West Glacier RV Park – West Glacier, MT
  • Mounthaven Resort – Ashford, WA
  • Toutle River RV Resort – Castle Rock, WA
  • Sea Perch RV Resort – Yachats, OR
  • Bay Point Landing – Coos Bay, OR
  • Sparks Marina RV Park – Sparks-Reno, NV

As the cool mountain and coastal retreats of August fade, September leads eastward to the first golden hues of New England, the Adirondacks, and Door County where early fall colors beckon along lakes, forests, and scenic byways.

Stowe, Vermont © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

September – Fall Foliage Begins

Early autumn brushes New England, the Adirondacks, and the Upper Midwest with its first golden tones—perfect for peaceful drives, lakeside reflections, and crisp morning hikes

September is when the earliest colors of fall quietly emerge across the northern tier of the country. In New England, birches begin to yellow, maples hint toward scarlet, and cool nights usher in the first whispers of the season. Vermont’s Green Mountains and New Hampshire’s White Mountains provide soft, early color while western Massachusetts’ Berkshire hills glow under gentle autumn light.

To the west, New York’s Adirondack Mountains—one of the first major regions in the East to transition—offer shimmering lakeside vistas and roadside forest scenes around Lake George, Schroon Lake, and the High Peaks. The combination of deep blue lakes and warm early fall hues creates some of the most photogenic scenery of the season.

Farther north, Maine’s coastal villages, lakes, and wilderness regions begin their turn as well, offering a beautiful blend of rugged shoreline and early autumn color. And across the Great Lakes, Wisconsin’s Door County—often among the first in the Midwest to show color—begins its transition as cherry orchards and hardwood forests tint the peninsula with amber and gold.

September is a month of subtlety—beautiful, uncrowded, and ideal for hiking, scenic drives, paddling, and photography before peak foliage arrives.

Scenic highlights

  • Adirondack Mountains (NY) – Early-season color around Lake George, Lake Placid, Schroon Lake, and the High Peaks
  • Green Mountains (VT) – Soft golds and early reds along backroads, farms, and small mountain towns
  • White Mountains (NH) – Crisp mornings, scenic byways, and early color along mountain ridges
  • Coastal & Inland Maine – Warm hues beginning to show in Acadia’s forests, lakes region, and northern woods
  • The Berkshires (MA) – Rolling hills, cultural towns, and gentle early-autumn foliage
  • Door County (WN) – Cherry orchards, shoreline cliffs, and hardwood forests glowing with early amber

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Lake George RV Park – Lake George, NY
  • Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA Holiday – Wilmington, NY
  • Apple Island Resort – South Hero, VT
  • Littleton/Franconia Notch KOA Holiday – Lisbon, NH
  • Laurel Ridge Camping Area – East Otis, MA
  • Acadia National Park/Blackwoods Campground – Bar Harbor, ME
  • Peninsula State Park Campground – Fish Creek, WI

As early fall colors fade in New England and the northern lakes, October turns the journey

southward to the Appalachians, where the Smokies, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Shenandoah Valley blaze with peak autumn splendor.

Cherohala Skyway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

October – Peak autumn in the Appalachians

October showcases the full splendor of autumn, painting the Appalachians, Smokies, and Blue Ridge Parkway in fiery reds, golds, and amber hues

October is the month when the eastern mountains truly come alive. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park bursts into color with misty mornings and vibrant canopy views perfect for photography and hiking. Nearby, the Cherohala Skyway offers sweeping overlooks through hardwood forests ablaze with autumn tones while the Blue Ridge Parkway provides mile after mile of iconic fall vistas along rolling ridgelines and valleys.

For a quieter, almost mystical experience wander the ancient groves of Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest where towering old-growth trees are framed by fiery leaves under soft October light. The Shenandoah Valley complements these highland views offering riverside reflections, covered bridges, and charming towns cloaked in fall color. From scenic drives to hikes and overlooks, October is the pinnacle of leaf-peeping season in the East.

Scenic highlights

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN/NC) – Misty mornings, vibrant canopy, scenic hiking trails
  • Cherohala Skyway (TN/NC) – Sweeping overlooks and forested mountain passes
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (VA/NC) – Endless autumn panoramas, historic overlooks, and photo opportunities
  • Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest (NC) – Ancient old-growth trees and quiet woodland beauty
  • Shenandoah Valley (VA) – Rivers, covered bridges, and charming historic towns

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Luray RV Resort and Campground – Luray, VA
  • Rivers Edge Mountain RV Resort – Murphy, NC
  • Mountain Falls Luxury Motorcoach Resort – Lake Toxaway, NC
  • Happy Holiday RV Village – Cherokee, NC
  • Sun Outdoors Pigeon Forge – Seviereville, TN
  • Two Rivers Landing RV Resort – Seviereville, TN

As the fiery autumn colors of the Appalachians fade, November leads you southwest to the warm deserts and charming small towns of the southern U.S. where mild days and golden light await your RV adventures.

Joshua Tree National Park, California © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

November – Desert & Southern Sun

Mild southern climates offer sunny hikes, quiet campgrounds, charming small towns, and spectacular stargazing for late-year RV escapes

November is the perfect month for escaping colder northern temperatures and chasing mild sunshine. Southern California’s deserts beckon with dramatic landscapes at Anza-Borrego State Park, a designated Dark Sky Park ideal for night photography and stargazing. Nearby, the historic town of Julian offers a charming detour with its famous apple pies, quaint shops, and scenic mountain views. Joshua Tree National Park draws visitors with towering rock formations, iconic desert flora, and wide-open skies perfect for sunrise and sunset photography.

The Texas Hill Country provides gentle rolling hills, unique rock outcrops like Enchanted Rock, and small towns such as Fredericksburg offering wine tasting, historic exploration, and scenic drives. Heading west, New Mexico’s Santa Fe and Albuquerque immerse RV travelers in desert culture with adobe architecture, vibrant art markets, and colorful landscapes. For a truly otherworldly experience, White Sands National Park stretches across brilliant white gypsum dunes offering dramatic photography and serene desert solitude.

Quiet roads, mild temperatures, charming towns, and starlit skies make November ideal for RV travel, photography, and savoring the slower pace of the season.

Scenic highlights

  • Southern California – Anza-Borrego State Park (Dark Sky Park), Julian (famous apple pies), Joshua Tree NP, desert vistas, and sunset photography
  • Texas Hill Country – Enchanted Rock, Fredericksburg, scenic drives, and small-town charm, and wine tasting
  • New Mexico – Santa Fe, Albuquerque, desert art and culture
  • White Sands National Park (NM) – Expansive dunes, brilliant gypsum landscapes, and solitude

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • The Springs at Borrego RV Resort and Golf Course – Borrego Springs, CA
  • Borrego Palm Canyon Campground – Anza-Borrego State Park, CA
  • Coachella Lakes RV Resort – Coachella, CA
  • Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park – Fredericksburg, TX
  • Firefly Resort – Fredericksburg, TX
  • Santa Fe Skies RV Park – Santa Fe, NM
  • Route 66 RV Resort – Albuquerque, NM

After savoring the mild southern sun and desert landscapes of November, December leads you deeper into Arizona’s Sonoran Desert where The Old Pueblo, iconic saguaros, and quiet winter light offer a serene close to the year.

Catalina State Park, Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

December – Sonoran Desert retreats

Close the year in the warm, serene landscapes of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert where mild days, cacti-studded vistas, and quiet backroads make for the perfect winter RV escape

December is the ideal month to explore the Sonoran Desert around Tucson, Phoenix, and surrounding valleys. Mild winter temperatures make hiking desert trails, photographing saguaro forests, and enjoying local cuisine both comfortable and rewarding.

Tucson, known as ‘The Old Pueblo’ delights visitors with its vibrant culinary scene, blending traditional southwestern flavors, and Mexican influences. Saguaro National Park showcases the iconic cacti and quiet winter vistas while Sabino Canyon offers shady trails, flowing desert streams, and photo-worthy mountain views. Don’t miss Catalina State Park with its forested desert trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Charming towns like Carefree and Scottsdale offer galleries, holiday events, and small-town desert culture. Quiet desert roads, panoramic vistas, and soft winter light make December perfect for reflection, photography, hiking, and savoring the desert’s peaceful winter atmosphere.

Nearby, Apache Trail winds past Canyon Lake, Goldfield Ghost Town, and Tortilla Flat, offering a mix of history, water vistas, and rugged desert landscapes. Lost Dutchman State Park in the Superstition Mountains provides striking rock formations and memorable hikes.

Scenic highlights

  • Saguaro National Park (Tucson, AZ) – Iconic cacti and winter desert trails
  • Sabino Canyon (Tucson, AZ) – Shaded trails, desert streams, and mountain views
  • Catalina State Park (Tucson, AZ) – Forested desert trails, wildlife, and scenic hikes
  • Apache Trail (Canyon Lake, Goldfield Ghost Town, Tortilla Flat) – Historic route, water views, and rugged desert scenery
  • Lost Dutchman State Park (Superstition Mountains) – Rock formations, hiking, and photography
  • Phoenix & Sonoran Desert Landscapes – Desert drives, sunset photography, and mild temperatures
  • Carefree & Scottsdale (AZ) – Small-town charm, art galleries, and holiday events
  • Tucson Cuisine – Southwestern flavors, Mexican influence, and farm-to-table dining

Suggested RV Parks & campgrounds

  • Catalina State Park Campground – Tucson, AZ
  • Rincon Country West RV Resort – Tucson, AZ
  • Tucson KOA Resort – Tucson, AZ
  • Campground USA – Apache Junction, AZ
  • Monte Vista RV Resort – Mesa, AZ
  • Usery Mountain Regional Park – Mesa, AZ

December – Closing thought

From the quiet trails of the Sonoran Desert to starlit skies and charming desert towns, December offers a peaceful finale leaving your year-long RV journey full of memories and inspiration for the road ahead.

A year in quotes: Inspiration for every month on the road

January – Desert Beginnings

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” — Lao Tzu

February – Gulf breezes & Cajun Country

“Wherever you go becomes a part of you somehow.” — Anita Desai

March – Arizona wildflowers & desert trails

“Earth laughs in flowers.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

April – Utah’s mighty red rock wonders

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” — John Muir

May – Coastal charm in the Carolinas

“Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

June – Alpine vistas of the West

“The mountains are calling and I must go.” — John Muir

July – Rivers, history & wild country

“Time is a river which carries me along, but I am the river.” — Jorge Luis Borges

August – Peaks & Pacific Northwest cool

“Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit.” — Edward Abbey

September – Early colors of New England & the North

“Autumn…the year’s last, loveliest smile.” — William Cullen Bryant

October – Peak color in the Appalachians

“And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.” — Oscar Wilde

November – Quiet deserts & southern sunshine

“Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

December – Sonoran light & winter calm

“Stillness is the altar of spirit.” — Paramahansa Yogananda

Year-round RV adventures – Reflections & inspiration

As the year winds to a close, your RV journey through America’s diverse landscapes—from snowy peaks to sunny deserts, from northern lakes to southern sun—leaves a trail of memories that capture the essence of travel, discovery, and the freedom of the open road.

Each month offered its own unique beauty: spring wildflowers in Arizona, the grandeur of the Mighty Five, the coastal charm of the Carolinas, the alpine splendor of Colorado and California, and the fiery fall colors of New England and the Appalachians. Winter’s quiet deserts reminded us that even at the end of the year there is still wonder waiting to be explored.

“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man.” — Heraclitus
This year-long journey echoes Heraclitus’s wisdom: each trip, each sunrise, and each path taken transforms both the landscape and the traveler. Revisiting familiar roads from Lake Powell to the Sonoran Desert offers new perspectives, a reminder that travel is as much about the journey within as it is about the places we visit.

Ralph Waldo Emerson reminds us, “Life is a journey, not a destination.” In the RV, every mile, every campsite, every quiet moment beneath the stars becomes part of a living story—a narrative of discovery, gratitude, and connection with the natural world.

As 2026 draws to a close, the memories of winding scenic byways, starlit desert skies, and the kaleidoscope of seasonal colors create a tapestry of experiences to cherish. Whether planning next year’s adventures or reflecting on those past, remember that the road is always open, and the world remains full of places to explore, stories to collect, and sunsets to admire.

Traveling through the seasons reminds us that the journey never truly ends—it simply turns the page to the next adventure.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 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.

10 Amazing Places to RV in September 2025

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

In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.

—Aristotle

Aristotle spent much of his life observing the world closely from the stars in the sky to many creatures of land and sea. These words come from his biological writings wherein he argued that even the most innocuous parts of the natural world—such as bugs, leaves, and dirt—reveal something beautiful when we look closely. Nature doesn’t work by accident; everything has a purpose and even the smallest parts contribute to the larger whole.

More than 2,000 years later, the ancient Greek philosopher’s sentiment still rings true: Grandiosity isn’t required for something to be awe-inspiring. Sometimes, life’s greatest marvels are found in the simple things.

Grandiosity often conjures images of towering mountains or sprawling cities but the quiet allure of RV travel reveals awe in life’s simpler moments. Picture the open road stretching ahead where each mile unfurls new landscapes—rolling hills, quiet forests, or a starlit desert sky. In the unhurried rhythm of RV life, the marvel lies not in chasing monumental destinations but in savoring the journey itself: a roadside diner’s warmth, the crackle of a campfire, or the fleeting connection with a fellow traveler. This understated freedom transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary proving that wonder thrives in the humble act of moving through the world at your own pace.

When the summer ends and temperatures begin to cool, September becomes a great month to travel. Not only does it have plenty to offer with scenic road trips but traveling in September also means better prices, smaller crowds, and events unique to this time of year. With so many options available, I’ll help you discover the best places to travel in September.

September is the start of shoulder season meaning milder temperatures and a more comfortable time for sightseeing. Destinations from the East Coast to the Rockies also get ready for fall with gorgeous landscapes and fewer crowds.

If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, you can find many festivals and major cultural, film, and food events throughout September. Whether you’re into movies, food, fashion, or folklore, September travel helps you pair sightseeing with authentic experiences you won’t find at other times of the year.

September offers the perfect balance: cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and enough daylight for exploring. National parks like Zion offer hiking and wildlife-spotting.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in July and August. Also check out my recommendations from September 2024 and October 2024.

Lake Powell © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Page, Arizona

Page is a dream destination for lovers of water, rock, and sky. Located near the Utah border, Page is the jumping-off point for some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the Southwest. Just minutes from downtown, Horseshoe Bend provides jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River from a sheer sandstone cliff. The area is especially magical at sunset when the light turns the rock a deep copper.

Just as close is Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon carved over millennia into flowing, narrow passageways that are perfect for photographers and explorers alike.

Page also provides easy access to Lake Powell, a massive reservoir where visitors can kayak, swim, boat, or just lounge by the shoreline surrounded by red rock buttes. Wahweap Overlook offers expansive views across the lake and the surrounding desert. With its mix of water recreation, dramatic geology, and striking vistas, Page is an essential stop for anyone who wants to experience Arizona’s most iconic natural wonders up close.

2. Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway

Alabama Gulf Coast © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Alabama is one of the most underrated beach states in the U.S. and its Coastal Connection National Scenic Byway celebrates the state’s 50 miles of Gulf Beach and nearly 70 miles of bay beaches. From Daphne, the scenic byway heads south until it hits its barrier island, Dauphin Island and then follows the coast west. The route then turns north and eventually finishes in Mobile County, at a small community called Grand Bay.

This road trip is a great way to explore Alabama’s beaches but take time to find the beauty in its sand dunes and marshlands, too. The state has more than 12,000 acres of protected lands where travelers can enjoy bird-watching and hiking: the Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and Gulf State Park to name a few.

Hoover Dam © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Hoover Dam

Sitting on the border of Arizona and Nevada, Hoover Dam is an iconic landmark and a marvel of engineering in the U.S. Construction of the dam along the Colorado River was completed in 1935 and it was named after Herbert Hoover who was involved in the project. The dam’s purpose was irrigation, flood control, hydroelectric power, and providing water to Southern California.

Construction of the dam proved to be quite challenging. Before it could be built, the Colorado River had to be rerouted and canyon walls had to be blasted with dynamite. Over the course of 5 years and the labor of around 21,000 workers, the dam was finished. Today, it remains an awe-inspiring man-made wonder that created Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the U.S.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of those incredibly popular parks that you need to see at least once. The pretty cream, pink, and red canyon has been slowly carved by the Virgin River over the course of millions of years. Zion is perfect for hikers of all skill levels offering everything from small paved hikes to adrenaline-rushers like Observation Point, the Narrows, and Angel’s Landing (the park’s most famous hike). 

I highly recommend exploring the otherworldly slot canyons during your time here. Taking a kayak river trip is a great use of time as well. You’ll find a handful of RV campgrounds in and around Zion National Park but since this too is a wildly popular destination be sure to make your reservations well ahead of time.

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

5. Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration in Macon

Celebrate the cultures of the Southeastern Native Americans at the Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park September 13-14, 2025. This free family friendly event will feature traditional dance, cultural crafts, storytelling, educational programs, live demonstrations, music, and dance. Native American arts and crafts vendors will be selling crafts and food.

The celebration honors the Muscogee people who consider Ocmulgee Mounds their ancestral homeland. Recognized as one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society, this homecoming event brings together various Native American tribes, blending both traditional and contemporary elements to celebrate the beauty and vital contributions of Native Peoples to Georgia and the Southeast.

Visitors will also have the chance to rediscover Ocmulgee Mounds, the Earth Lodge, the Visitor Center Museum, trails, and the park’s natural beauty.

Stephen Foster State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Okefenokee Swamp campground re-opens

If you love wildlife and water, here is great news! Nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anglers can once again camp at Stephen C. Foster State Park near Fargo, Georgia. Serving as the western entrance to the beloved and mysterious Okefenokee Swamp, this remote park offers 52 campsites including 19 with full hook-ups and three ADA sites with easy access to comfort stations.

During the day, visitors can take guided boat tours, go fishing, or rent a kayak to look for alligators and other creatures that call this enormous wetland home. At night, listen for owls, watch bats soar overhead, and admire some of the darkest skies in the U.S. Stephen C. Foster State Park continues to upgrade its facilities including cottage renovations which are currently underway.

Vogel State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Vogel State Park

Did you know one of Georgia’s oldest and most beloved state parks sits at the base of Blood Mountain?

Vogel State Park has been making family memories since the 1930s. The 22-acre Lake Trahlyta sits like a mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains.

Swimming here in summer feels like you’ve found your own private mountain oasis. The beach area has enough sand to build castles without fighting for space like at crowded beaches. Renting a pedal boat and cruising around the lake is old-fashioned fun that never gets old.

The 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Trail gives you a workout and rewards you with an overlook of the park.

Fall is the superstar season here when the mountains burst into a riot of reds, oranges, and golds. The drive to the park along Wolf Pen Gap Road becomes a tunnel of color.

The park’s CCC-built cottages have that rustic charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. They were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Those young men knew how to build things to last!

Miniature golf, hiking, fishing, and relaxing—Vogel has all the ingredients for a perfect getaway. The campground fills up fast in summer and fall, so book early or risk disappointment.

Scenic Byway 12 © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Utah’s Scenic Byway 12

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 connects five national parks and monuments offering more geological eye candy per mile than anywhere else in America. The route passes through some of the most stunning red rock country on Earth and camping in Utah state parks costs just $20-25 per night. Many campgrounds offer views that would cost $500 per night at luxury resorts.

The small towns along the route like Boulder, Utah (population 226) offer authentic western experiences without the tourist markup. Local cafes serve massive portions for under $12, and many offer box lunches perfect for all-day hiking adventures. The route includes free access to incredible viewpoints like the Dixie National Forest overlooks and countless pullouts where the views are as good as any paid attraction.

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Wall to Wall

The small town of Wall serves as the gateway to Badlands National Park, a surreal landscape of eroded cliffs, colorful buttes, and sprawling prairie grasslands. From there, the 39‑mile Badlands Loop Scenic Byway winds through some of the park’s most dramatic scenery. The round trip to and from Wall takes about 1.5 to 2 hours but it’s worth allowing extra time to stop and explore.

Stop at Big Badlands. Overlook for a sweeping view of the striped rock formations then stroll along the Window Trail, an easy boardwalk leading to a natural “window” framing the rugged landscape beyond. Keep an eye out for prairie dogs and if luck is on your side you might spot bighorn sheep scaling the cliffs. The park is also rich in fossils preserving the remains of ancient mammals that once roamed the land.

After completing the loop, drive back to Wall and stop into Wall Drug, a famous roadside attraction offering 5-cent coffee, freshly-made donuts, and quirky photo ops to make your South Dakota road trip even more memorable.

Colonial Williamsburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Williamsburg

History buffs will adore Williamsburg, Virginia and if they happen to be beginner RVers they might just love it even more. This little town is so full of historical sites and attractions that one could easily spend a week here and still not see it all. On top of that, Williamsburg is relatively easy to navigate and offers all of the amenities RVers need for a comfortable stay. 

The Colonial Williamsburg Living History Museum is there, as are counterparts like Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, and Yorktown Battlefield. All of them are fascinating and well worth seeing. 

Of course, you’ll also appreciate that the abundance of nearby campgrounds makes it easy to stay in the area. Nearby Machicomoco State Park features 27 campsites many with electric and water hookups. You’ll appreciate that sites are so well spaced making it easier for first-timers to back in. 

Worth Pondering…

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

There is a ripening of the season as fruit trees grow heavy with red apples; leaves turn golden to reveal a harvest of pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and peppers in the field; and grape vines hang heavy with clusters of newly turned black and golden grapes.

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

Grab the keys and let’s go RVing

10 Amazing Places to RV in September 2024

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

All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.

—Walt Disney

In many ways, the creation of Mickey Mouse and Disneyland—the happiest place on Earth—is the embodiment of dreams coming true. Almost everything Walt Disney introduced to the world first began as a dream. A pioneer of feature-length cartoons, he had to develop innovative advancements in cinema sound, technicolor, and cameras to make his ideas a reality.

But to bring a vision to life also requires courage, and lots of it. We all have dreams and like Disney we may face obstacles on our way to pursuing them—but we should never let fear be one of them.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in July and August. Also check out my recommendations from September 2023 and October 2023.

Spotted Lake © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Spotted Lake

Throughout the winter and spring, British Columbia’s Spotted Lake appears much like any other mountain lake. But summertime brings about a magical change when its evaporating waters give way to a spectacular polka-dotted array of colorful mineral deposits.

The reason? Spotted Lake is an endorheic basin (meaning it has no evident outlet) so the lake is refilled each year with mineral-packed snowmelt from the surrounding Okanagan Valley. As temperatures rise, the lake water evaporates leaving behind a series of yellow and teal-colored mineral deposits that materialize in a circular pattern across the lake bed.

Located a few miles north of the border with Washington State, Spotted Lake has long been known as Khiluk by the region’s First Nations peoples who consider the waters a sacred site known for their healing properties. During World War I, the lake’s minerals were harvested to manufacture ammunition though it has since been returned into the hands of tribal members who work to maintain the lake’s ecological beauty. While a fence has been erected as part of the preservation efforts, several vantage points along Canada’s Highway 3 offer stunning views of this otherworldly attraction.

Chattanooga © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Chattanooga

There’s no way around it, Chattanooga is a town for active people. Nestled between two mountains at a bend in the Tennessee River, the city of 182,000 has a competition going on most every weekend including both a full and a half Ironman (September 29, 2024) along with plenty of hiking, whitewater kayaking, and fishing for the more laid-back. While the outdoors is a big draw here, the top-notch food, drink, and hotels are no afterthought, either. 

Don’t miss stirring up some foam via kayak on the rapids of the Tennessee River Blueway, hang gliding at Lookout Mountain, and tackling the cracks of the Tennessee Wall, an epic crag on the rim of the Tennessee River Gorge. You can also head out for a great three-mile run on Bluff Trail which hugs the scenic edge of Lookout. And when you’re spent, there’s fried chicken and a long beer list waiting for you at Champy’s.

Sedona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Sedona

Sedona is a beautiful desert town that should be on your bucket list if it isn’t already. With its red rock formations, vibrant arts scene, and energy vortexes, Sedona is one of the most unique places in the world. Since Sedona is bang in the middle of high-desert Arizona, there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had. You could go trekking or rent a mountain bike. Popular trails are Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock.

Another must-do while there is a leisurely drive down Red Rock Scenic Byway. Go on a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of the spectacular scenery. If you want to take it slow, there are several spas and wineries in the area.

The weather is perfect for outdoor exploration during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).

Here are some helpful resources:

Scenic drive near Moab © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Moab

Tucked up in Utah’s red-rock desert between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab has two personas. Its Slickrock valleys, alpine peaks, and scarlet cliffs are perfect for thrill-seekers but also provide a peaceful environment for reflection and meditation. Moab offers everything from mountain biking to hiking, climbing, and canyoneering to rafting and horseback riding.

The breathtaking overlook at Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed viewpoints in the world. The whole area offers stunning views especially at sunset when the desert grows darker. Moab also boasts some of the darkest night skies on Earth making it a haven for stargazers. To truly enjoy this, you should try camping in Moab. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sun which illuminates the Entrada and Navajo Sandstone and creates an otherworldly experience.

The best times to visit Moab are from March to early May and from September to October.

Glen Canyon Dam © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Page, Arizona

Distinctive natural wonders and exciting outdoor activities await you in the picturesque town of Page. More than just a great natural destination, it’s an ideal starting point for all the activities in the Great American Southwest. Page offers plenty of outdoor activities and breathtaking natural attractions.

Lake Powell is just stunning with its artificial lake surrounded by beautiful red rock formations and it is a must-visit. You can have a blast swimming, kayaking, boating, and exploring the area. Be sure to check out Antelope Canyon which has breathtaking rock formations nearby. If you’re interested, the Glen Canyon Dam offers guided tours. Horseshoe Bend offers the most incredible views of the Colorado River from a 1,000-foot ledge. Page is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking.

The best times to visit Page are mid-April to early June in spring and mid-September to October in fall.

St. Mary’s © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. St. Mary’s, Georgia

St. Mary’s is a beautiful coastal community and the gateway to Georgia’s famed Cumberland Island, only an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida. You can take the ferry to Cumberland Island where you’ll find plenty of fishing, hiking, and wildlife, or hang around the peaceful village. Visit the St. Mary’s Submarine Museum, the only one of its kind in Southern Georgia or the Plum Orchard Mansion, originally built by Lucy Carnegie for her son and his wife.

If you love the outdoors, you won’t want to miss Crooked River State Park’s hiking, camping, and nature center. Those wishing to stay somewhere more central can take in the front porch charm of the Spencer House Inn. If you’re looking for delicious dining, enjoy Locals Dockside or the Southern Riverwalk. And, if you’re looking for a unique tour, enjoy the St. Mary’s Murder, Mayem, and Mimosas Walking Tour, complete with an assassination plot and cocktails at noon.

Valley of the Gods © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Valley of the Gods

Not a national park or monument, Valley of the Gods is publicly-managed Bureau of Land Management (BLM) territory in a setting surrounded by four national monuments, two national and Utah state parks, and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area with fingers from Lake Powell. It’s a land of great beauty that epitomizes both the American West and science fiction movie landscapes. Tighten your grip on the steering wheel and turn onto the drop, while everyone else gasps at once.

They will be gasping not at the steep drop down to ford the creek but from the towering Seven Sailors Butte filling the earth to the sky. Let the passengers gawk, drivers need to watch the Lime Creek crossing. This is the eastern beginning to a 17-mile twisting, climbing, and turning but readily accessible drive looping through a valley of dramatic red rock buttes, rolling desert landscape, and a smattering of brush and wildflowers

Corpus Christi © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Corpus Christi

This coastal city in South Texas was recently named a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community and September 6-7 (2024) brings an event that combines art and music. “We invite visitors and residents to MusicWalk, a musical takeover of the Corpus Christi downtown monthly ArtWalk. This celebration brings the flavor, culture, and vibrance of Corpus Christi to life,” Emily Zertuche, interim music commissioner, says.

The festival features over 60 local musicians across multiple outdoor stages and local venues, dozens of food trucks, live mural paintings, a classic car show, pickleball courts, and over 100 local vendors and pop-up shops.

Corpus Christi also boasts beaches, the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington Museum, and the Art Museum of South Texas.

Savannah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Savannah

Savannah is a fabulous September getaway filled with farmers’ markets, events, and outdoor experiences. Savannah is large but it feels like a quaint small town.

Stroll through the Victorian district to admire the unique architecture or check out Starland District which is packed with galleries, shops, and eateries.

Beat the Halloween season rush in September by taking a ghost tour to explore the spooky side of Savannah.

Explore the local art scene at The First Savannah Art Walk of the Season, enjoy a free jazz concert during Savannah Jazz Festival (September 18-22, 2024), or get a glimpse into some of Savannah’s cultural heritage through food and music at Fiesta Latina.

September events you shouldn’t miss are Turtle Hatching Two-Night Weekends, Labor Day Festivities at Fort McAllister State Park, and Unity in the Community: Food Truck Expo.

Get the real taste of local produce at Forsyth Farmers Market and explore one of the best-preserved brick fortifications in the U.S. at Fort Pulaski where the entrance is free on September 23, 2023, to mark National Public Lands Day. 

The Breakers, Newpost © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Newport

Newport is renowned for its opulent Gilded Age mansions and September provides an excellent opportunity to explore their grandeur. Visit iconic mansions like The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms and step back in time to an era of grandeur and elegance. Take a stroll along Newport’s famous Cliff Walk, a 3.5 mile scenic pathway that hugs the shoreline and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you visit towards the end of September, you can attend the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival (September 19-22, 2024). Indulge in culinary delights prepared by renowned chefs, sample a wide selection of wines, and enjoy live music and entertainment.

But Newport has delicious local seafood year round.

Worth Pondering…

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

There is a ripening of the season as fruit trees grow heavy with red apples; leaves turn golden to reveal a harvest of pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and peppers in the field; and grape vines hang heavy with clusters of newly turned black and golden grapes.

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

Grab the keys and let’s go RVing

Prost! Here Are the Best Places to Celebrate Oktoberfest in America

It’s time to dust off your dirndl and lederhosen

Oktoberfest first began in 1810 as a celebration of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen’s wedding. The original celebration lasted five days and the people of Munich had events such as horseback riding and days of drinking.

The event officially became a celebration of the anniversary of the prince before becoming an annual festival that grew more extensive and more prominent over the years. The event has also caught on in the rest of the world where it’s celebrated globally.

Shiner, Texas © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Though the name of the yearly festival is Oktoberfest, the event takes place every year in the middle of September and ends the first week of October. Oktoberfest typically lasts 16 days ending the first Sunday of October but if it goes past October 3rd, it goes to 17 or even 18 days.

However, if a trip to Europe doesn’t work for you this fall, don’t fret: There are many great places closer to home where you can get your fill of German food and beer.

To help you decide where to celebrate Germany’s famous fall event without traveling abroad, I’ve searched from sea to shining sea to bring you America’s best Oktoberfest events. Regardless of what your favorite part of Oktoberfest is, you’re bound to have a memorable experience at one of the celebrations this side of the Atlantic.

Helen © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Oktoberfest — Helen, Georgia

Festival dates: September 7-10, 14-17, and 21-24; daily from September 28-October 20, 2023

Nestled in Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the town of Helen was overlooked by tourists for years. They’d stop to top off their tanks on the way to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Brasstown Bald, or Georgia’s beloved Vogel State Park.

Then in 1969, a business owner had enough. He noted the region’s similarity to Bavaria where he’d been stationed while in the Army so he proposed: Transform sleepy Helen into an alpine village that appeared to be plucked right out of a German forest.

Slowly, the town changed its face adding half-timber facades, cobblestone alleys, and delicate gingerbread latticework and hand-carved details to eaves and rooflines. Soon after it became Alpine Helen; this year-round bit of Bavaria not too far north of Atlanta held its first Oktoberfest celebration.

Helen © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Nowadays, more than 500,000 visitors attend the two-month event. The Oktoberfest Parade kicks things off on September 9 culminating in a crowd at the Helen Festhalle where the Official Tapping of the Keg marks the true opening of Oktoberfest.

German-style bands from across the U.S. and Germany, more than 30 beers from local breweries and German brewmeisters, authentic Bavarian cuisine, traditional Alpenhorn instruments and plenty of folks in festive costumes make Helen’s Oktoberfest a memorable event.

Beyond the festival, visitors can peruse the town’s 100-plus boutiques and galleries or explore the nearby national forests and state parks.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Oktoberfest — Fredericksburg, Texas

Festival dates: October 6-8, 2023

You may be surprised to learn that several towns in Texas have deep German roots. Of them all, Fredericksburg serves as the state’s epicenter for all things Oktoberfest.

Since 1981, the whole town—and then some—have turned out every October to find the town’s Marktplatz transformed into a miniature Munich. Live polka and oompah bands play on five different stages and at this year’s Oktoberfest celebration musicians from Germany will add old home country authenticity to the music lineup.

There’s German fare (think: brats, kraut, wurst, potato pancakes, and made-to-order pretzels), plus a seemingly endless supply of beer from Germany’s own Paulaner (a brewery that provides one of six beers poured at Munich’s Oktoberfest) and Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu. Oktoberfest beers from breweries in Texas and beyond are also readily available.

Fredericksburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Younger attendees will enjoy plenty of kids’ games in the KinderPark. There’s also a pair of juried art and artisan exhibitions featuring work from the best of the Hill Country’s creative types. Other must-attend events include a family-friendly lederhosen and dirndl contest, a yodeling competition, and the Samuel Adams Beer Stein Hoist.

The Pedernales Creative Art Alliance organizes this Oktoberfest celebration. Proceeds from tickets which cost $20 each and are valid for three days of admission fund youth arts and music scholarships, community arts and musical programs, and more—another great reason to attend the festival.

When you’re not at Oktoberfest, check out central Fredericksburg. The whole town is decked out in German regalia and offers several boutiques on Main Street selling authentic German goods imported from Europe.

Bird-watching is popular in the Hill Country, too, so don’t forget to bring your binoculars when you head to Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park or the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Trapp Family Lodge © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Trapp Family Lodge Oktoberfest — Stowe, Vermont

Festival date: September 16, 2023

The hills come alive with the sound of Oktoberfest music when you celebrate at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe. Yes, it’s the same von Trapp family whose story was immortalized in The Sound of Music and a pair of German films: Die Trapp Familie and Die Trapp Familie in Amerika.

The family’s story begins in 1905 when the real Maria was born on a train to Vienna. It follows through to the early 1940s when the Trapp Family Singers toured the U.S. and then settled in Stowe where they found a farm with a view that reminded them of their beloved Austria. The family built a lodge and a life there extending their hospitality and grace to visitors from all over before eventually growing the property into a full-fledged resort.

This year marks the 14th annual Oktoberfest celebration at the property’s von Trapp Brewing Bierhall. During the one-day event, festivalgoers can listen to music from Germany’s Inseldudler band, drink beer from the von Trapp Brewery, and savor a spread of German and Austrian cuisine that’s bound to transport them to the Alps in a single bite.

Trapp Family Lodge © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

It’s a family-friendly affair and tickets (which range from $32 to $62 per person, depending on your age) include a lager and a commemorative mug for guests 21 and up. Those 20 and younger will receive a root beer with a commemorative mug.

Tickets are good for one of three sessions, each lasting two hours and 45 minutes so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy some bratwurst and sauerkraut, eggplant schnitzel with Jaeger sauce, potato pancakes and, of course, pretzels and beer.

Also, save time for exploring the rest of the property. Available activities include disc golf, hiking, mountain biking, and carriage rides. Remember to visit the nearby Ben & Jerry’s Waterbury Factory, too, to sample some of Vermont’s famous ice cream and learn how it’s made.

Savannah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Oktoberfest — Savannah, Georgia

Festival dates: Saturdays and Sundays from September 23-October 28, 2023

Oktoberfest in this historic Southern city proves that entertainment and hospitality are two things Savannah takes seriously.

The city’s Plant Riverside District, a 1912 power plant that’s been re-envisioned and restored to an elegant modern standard is home to high-end shopping, concert and comedy venues, delectable dining, and a quarter-mile riverfront walk with gorgeous views.

It’s also home to the city’s Oktoberfest, a multi-weekend celebration packed with beer tasting, fine German food, and several family-friendly events.

There’s a bratwurst-eating contest, music, and dancing. Plus, the whole of the Plant Riverside District is at your disposal. Check venue schedules for concerts and comedy shows that might pique your interest.

Oktoberfest spills beyond this entertainment district and you’ll find celebratory beers on offer at Southbound Brewing Company, Moon River Brewing Company, and other breweries in town.

Savannah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

While you’re in Savannah, spend time walking the city’s historical squares. They’re great places to soak up the charm and mystery of the city while walking off all the mouthwatering Southern fare you’ll eat while visiting. Also check out the multitude of galleries filled with local works, including fine art, and traditional Gullah crafts.

Haunted tours, pub crawls, haunted pub crawls (naturally), and history tours keep many visitors busy. However, if you’re in town for Oktoberfest you’ll also be there in time for other events that showcase the charm of Savannah and the low country.

Nearby Tybee Island’s Pirate Fest takes place the first weekend in October. The second weekend is the Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival. The Isle of Hope Art and Music Fest and the Savannah Film Festival both occur on the third weekend of October.

Worth Pondering…

Cheers to Okto-beer-fest!

10 Amazing Places to RV in September 2023

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

There’s no such thing in anyone’s life as an unimportant day.

—Alexander Woollcott

American drama critic Alexander Woollcott is known for instituting the Algonquin Round Table, a literary luncheon (held at the Algonquin Hotel in Manhattan in the 1920s) that hosted such luminaries as comedian Harpo Marx and writer Dorothy Parker. However, Woollcott’s life leading up to that point was remarkable: He went from a childhood in poverty to serving in the First World War to becoming a columnist for The New Yorker magazine. His surviving letters recount anecdotes from his life and the lives of his creative friends. His words here encourage us to see the value in the mundane and to treat each day as part of the rich experience of life.

September always feels like a reset. Summer isn’t technically over until later in the month but unofficially… we feel the shift. The temperatures are cooling and the days are growing shorter.

That doesn’t mean that the excitement of summer travel has to abruptly end. In fact, September is actually the best time to visit many popular destinations especially national parks. The shoulder season brings fewer crowds and lower temps with the more accessibility and, in some cases, a display of early fall colors.

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

Leaf pepping at the Trapp Family Lodge © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Leaf-peeping Vermont

Stowe is a classic New England town at the base of Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield. It is located on the 138-mile Vermont Route 100, one of the country’s coasting routes for what is referred to locally as leaf-peeping. The season runs from September through late October.

In addition to watching the leaves change, fall means hiking numerous trails, fishing off Lake Champlain, and paddling down the Lamoille River.

Horrid Observation Site offers gorgeous views (despite its name) of the Champlain Valley. Reaching the outlook requires a half-mile uphill hike but the payoff is a vast panorama of the Green Mountain National Forest and Champlain Valley. You can also go hiking with dogs on the trail.

Percy Farm Corn Maze is the perfect fall activity to do in Vermont. It is surrounded by gorgeous countryside creating beautiful views and picture opportunities. The maze is well-designed and the farm area also offers candies and syrups for sale.

Applegate Valley © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Applegate Valley wine country

The Applegate Valley wine country is found in the far southern reaches of Oregon running for 50 miles between the towns of Grants Pass and Jacksonville. It is home to some 18 wineries most of which offer wine tastings beside scenic vineyards growing in the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains. Wine drinkers will find a lot to enjoy from rich malbacs to smooth chardonnays while everyone should be able to appreciate the stunning views that surround quiet back roads that run through the region.

Jekyll Island © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Experience sea turtle season

With its unspoiled beaches, lush maritime forests, and peaceful marshes, Jekyll Island, a barrier island off the coast of Georgia, is a dream getaway for nature lovers and wildlife watchers—especially during sea turtle season.

The best time to see adult sea turtles is during nesting season which begins in May with nests often laid through mid-summer. Jekyll Island is one of the few places where you can experience up-close encounters with sea turtles. These gentle giants can weigh hundreds of pounds and adult females leave their saltwater and estuarine habitats to bring themselves onto the sandy beaches to lay eggs.

Sea turtle © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Sea turtle hatching season typically happens from August through October and is the best time to potentially witness turtle hatchlings emerge from their nest and scamper their way across the beach and into the ocean.

At the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, take a behind-the-scenes tour into the turtle hospital to learn about sea turtle care and treatment. To spot some sea turtle nests for yourself, head out on the center’s Night and Dawn Patrol programs with a field biologist. You can also take a guided Turtle Walk to learn more.

>> Get more tips for visiting Jekyll Island

Monument Valley © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Towering Monument Valley buttes display sunset spectacle

A sunset spectacle featuring two mitten-shaped rock formations plays out at Monument Valley on the Navajo Nation along the Arizona and Utah border. Twice a year, in late March and mid-September, spectators, photographers, and videographers get a visual treat. As the sun sinks, the West Mitten Butte’s shadow crawls across the desert valley floor before climbing up the side of the East Mitten Butte.

The spectacle draws people from around the world to Monument Valley Tribal Park which already is popular with tourists.

TV and movie critic Keith Phipps once described Monument Valley as having “defined what decades of moviegoers think of when they imagine the American West.” It is a frequent filming location including a number of Westerns by the late American film director John Ford as well as the 1994 Oscar-winning film Forest Gump. In the movie, the character played by Tom Hanks is seen running on the road to Monument Valley, the park’s impressive landscape in the background.

>> Get more tips for visiting Monument Valley

Cades Cove © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Cades Cove Loop

The Cades Cove Loop, a part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a must-see for history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors pass through an idyllic valley encircled by bears, deer, and wild turkeys, driving around the loop. People can spend time discovering the churches, log houses, and a functional gristmill, among the old structures that have been beautifully conserved.

Visitors can also use the loop’s picnic areas, hiking trails, and bicycle paths while taking in the breathtaking mountain views from the numerous overlooks. The Cades Cove Loop is a fascinating drive presenting an exceptional combination of scenic natural beauty and rich cultural legacy.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cades Cove

Bernheim Arboretum and Forest © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Kentucky Arboretums

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Clermont (just outside Louisville) is a sprawling natural space with expansive hiking and biking trails. Fishing, bird-watching, and geocaching are also popular within the park. 

The Arboretum in Lexington spans 100 gorgeous acres and is operated by the University of Kentucky, with guided tours offered May-September and self-guided tours available year-round.

The Boone County Arboretum was the nation’s first arboretum within an active recreation park setting—the specialized arrangements of plant collections exist along 2.5 miles of paved multi-use trails that wind through nearly 30 collection areas over their 121 acres. 

>> Get more tips for visiting Bernheim Arborteum

Gatlinburg © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg’s 407-foot Space Needle is its most iconic landmark. You ride a glass elevator to the top for sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding area. However, that is not all there is to enjoy here. Every fall, Gatlinburg hosts the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival beginning mid-September through November.

The notion that peak color season in the Great Smoky Mountains is in mid-October is a misconception. The colors of fall light up the Smokies for seven weeks or more moving from the peak elevations down to the foothills. The seven-week period generally runs from mid-September through the end of October.

Ober Gatlinburg’s 13th Annual OktOBERfest will be held from September 29–October 30, 2023. During this month-long celebration along with daily shows, the Seasons of Ober Restaurant switches to their OktOBERfest menu. Most of the food is German-inspired and is derived from recipes and cuisine from traditional Bavarian festivals. Offerings include schnitzel, bratwurst, strudel, turkey legs, salted pretzels, and sauerkraut.

Woodstock © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Woodstock, New York

It is often assumed the Woodstock Music Festival took place in the Catskills town of Woodstock but it took place in Bethel about 1.5 hours away. The 1969 summer festival got its name from the former, though, and Woodstock has since maintained a bohemian art scene.

In general, leaves in the Catskills and northern New York State peak between the last week of September and the first week of October making this an ideal part of the country to enjoy in the fall, especially from behind the wheel of your RV.

Do not miss Tinker Street, Woodstock’s main street, to explore all the independent boutiques, shops, and restaurants.

>> Get more tips for visiting Woodstock

Okanagan Wine Country © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Drink in the wine and sunshine in the Okanagan

Imagine a valley floor filled with a 170-mile-long lake, wildlife including bighorn sheep, cougars, and rattlesnakes, and rainfall of fewer than 12 inches a year but with the greatest concentration of wineries and orchards, you can imagine. The Okanagan Valley is the heart of British Columbia’s grape-growing region and boasts more than 130 licensed wineries. An ever-changing panorama, the valley stretches over 150 miles across distinct sub-regions, each with different soil and climate conditions suited to a range of varietals. 

Add to this the Okanagan’s natural beauty (it’s a hallowed summer-vacation spot for Western Canadians), its wide range of non-wine-related things for the whole family to do—from riding the century-old Kettle Valley Steam Railway and swimming in those pristine lakes to biking and hiking and its lush orchards selling juicy peaches and cherries on the roadside—and you’ve got a wine-country experience like no other.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Okanagan Valley

Buffalo Roundup © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival

Watch cowboys and cowgirls as they round up and drive the herd of approximately 1,300 buffalo at Custer State Park in western South Dakota. Not only is the roundup a spectacular sight to see, but it is also a critical management tool for maintaining a strong and healthy herd.

The Buffalo Roundup will begin at 9:30 a.m. MT on September 29, 2023, with the parking lots opening at 6:15 a.m. Be sure to arrive early if you want to pick your spot. Guests must stay in the viewing areas until the herd is safely in the corrals, generally around noon. Breakfast is available at 6:15 a.m. in both viewing areas. Lunch is served at the corrals once the buffalo are rounded up. There is a fee for both meals. 

Testing, branding, and sorting of the buffalo begins at 1 p.m. and lasts until approximately 3 p.m. Crews will work the remainder of the herd in October.

Worth Pondering…

We know that in September, we will wander through the warm winds of summer’s wreckage. We will welcome summer’s ghost.

—Henry Rollins

The Best National Parks to Visit in September

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

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.

September is one of the best months of the year to visit the national parks. The weather is fantastic across much of the US, the busy summer season is coming to an end and in some parks you can see the first of the fall colors. In this guide, I list five of the best national parks to visit plus four bonus parks.

Theodore Roosevelt 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.

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visiting the National Parks in September

In my opinion, September is one of the best months of the year to plan a national parks trip. In September, the weather is still warm and the snow has melted on the higher elevation trails. After Labor Day, crowds get lower in the national parks now that children are back in school.

During September, you can visit almost any national park and have a great experience. The parks in the northern half of the US are still relatively warm and the roads are still open. In warmer climates like Utah and Arizona, September is still a hot month to visit but not as bad as June through August especially if you can delay your visit to the end of the month. And in a few places, you can even catch the first fall colors at the end of September.

I recommend avoiding Everglades and Congaree in September as they tend to be hot, humid, and swarming with mosquitoes.

For this guide, I could have listed 30 great parks to visit in September since there are so many good options. Instead, I list five of the very best parks to visit with more suggestions at the end of this guide.

Let’s get started.

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 September

Theodore Roosevelt National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. 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 September: Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s weather is defined by the seasons. Summers are warm with occasional hot periods. Thunderstorms occur in the afternoons. Spring and fall are mild. Winters can be quite cold with high winds.

Weather: Although some days will be in the 80s, the average high is 74°F and the average low is 42°F. Rainfall is low with only 1.3 inches of rain falling in September.

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

2. 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 September: To watch the Bat Flight Program when bats emerge by the thousands from the natural entrance of the cave.

Weather: Carlsbad Caverns National Park has a semiarid climate with generally mild winters and warm to hot summers. In September, the average high is 83°F and the average low is 60°F. September is one of the wettest months of the year with 2.9 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

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. 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 traverse the park.

Shenandoah is a beautiful park to visit in September. From the viewpoints along Skyline Drive, you can gaze across the mountains and the valleys below.

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why visit Shenandoah in September: The fall colors begin the last two two weeks of September in the higher elevations. Plus, the weather is perfect for sightseeing and hiking.

Weather: The average high is 66°F and the average low is 58°F. On warmer than average days, it can get up into the high 70s. Rainfall averages about 5 inches per month through the year and September is no different.

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:20 am and sunset is at 6:30 pm.

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.

Shenandoah National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

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.

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

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

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Tennessee and North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. In 2022, over 12 million people visited this park. Second place wasn’t even close (that would be Grand Canyon with 4 million visitors).

This 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.

With over 100 species of trees that cover various elevations in the park, the peak time for fall colors lasts quite a while in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The trees first begin to change color at the higher elevations as early as mid-September. From early to mid-October, the colors slide down the mountains. Peak season comes to an end at the beginning of November when the trees at the lower, warmer elevations finally change colors.

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

Why visit Great Smoky Mountains in September: For great weather for hiking and the beginning of fall colors.

Weather: The average high is 70°F and the average low is 52°F. Rainfall is about 4 inches for September which is one of the driest months of the year. 

Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is at 7:40 am and sunset is at 7 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 weekends. Trust me on that one.

Plan your visit

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. 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.

Why visit Mesa Verde in September: Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Mesa Verde. There are fewer visitors in the park than during summer and cooler temperatures make conditions more comfortable for hiking and other activities. September brings sunny days, pleasant temperatures, and fewer rainy days.

Weather: The average high is 75°F and the average low is 48°F. Rainfall is low.
Sunrise & sunset: Sunrise is 6 am and sunset is 8:15 pm.

Mesa Verde National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

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.

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

Bonus! More parks to visit

As stated earlier, September is a great time to visit just about any of the US national parks.

In the east, September is a beautiful time of year to visit New River Gorge National Park.

In the west, the list is long and includes Pinnacles, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Grand Canyon, and Badlands.

September is still a bit warm for Utah’s Mighty 5 and the American Southwest but the later you go, the cooler it will be. I prefer October into November for these parks.

Bonus! 4 NPS sites to visit in September

Mount St. Helens Volcanic National 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.

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.

Aztec Ruins National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Aztec Ruins National Monument

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. 

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

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon, Georgia 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).

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 RV Camping September 2022

Explore the guide to find some of the best in September camping across America

But where should you park your RV? With so many options out there you may be overwhelmed with the number of locales calling your name.

Here are 10 of the top locations to explore in September. RVing with Rex selected this list of campgrounds and RV resorts from parks personally visited.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly RV park recommendations for the best places to camp in July and August. Also, check out my recommendations for September 2021 and October 2021.

Toutle River RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Toutle River RV Resort, Castle Rock, Washington

Toutle River RV Resort is a 5-star resort built in 2009. Toutle River has some standard features such as a general store, clubhouse, and heated swimming pool as well as unique, exciting amenities you won’t find in other places. They have red cedar barrel saunas, a disc golf course, a jumbo-sized croquet court, and a karaoke pavilion. There’s also a free do-it-yourself smokehouse for jerky and fish as well as an orchard on site with apples, pears, cherries, and plums that guests are welcome to pick.

Mount St. Helens © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The park offers 306 full hookup RV sites many offering 6,000 sq. ft. or more and up to 100 feet long. Masonry fire pits and BBQs are located throughout the park and all premium sites feature a fire pit, BBQ, and park-style picnic tables. These are truly beautiful sites. Conveniently located near Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Toutle River RV Resort is located off I-5 at Exit 52, easy-on, easy-off.

JGW RV Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

JGW RV Park, Redding, California

Our home base while touring the Redding area was JGW RV Park, a big-rig-friendly resort located 9 miles south of Redding on the Sacramento River. This beautiful 5-star RV park offers 75 sites with water, sewer, and 30/50-amp electric service centrally located. The majority of pull-through sites are back-to-back and side-to-side. Our site backed onto the Sacramento River. Interior roads are paved and in good condition with concrete pads.

Vogel State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Vogel State Park, Georgia

Vogel, one of Georgia’s oldest state parks, sits at the base of Blood Mountain inside Chattahoochee National Forest. The park is particularly popular during the autumn months when the Blue Ridge Mountains put on a colorful display of fall foliage. RV campers can choose from 90 campsites with electric hookups.

Jack’s Landing RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Jack’s Landing RV Resort, Grants Pass, Oregon

New in 2002, Jack’s Landing RV Resort offers 54 RV sites adjacent to Interstate 5 (Exit 58). The nicely landscaped park has paved roads and concrete parking pads. Jack’s Landing is big rig friendly with pull-through sites in the 70-75 foot range (also back-in sites) and conveniently located 30/50-amp electric service, water, and sewer connections, and cable TV. Paved sites and fairly wide paved streets. Pleasingly landscaped and treed. The main office has restrooms, showers, laundry, a gym, and a small ball court. The only negative is freeway noise.

Rain Spirit RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Rain Spirit RV Resort, Clarkdale, Arizona

Overlooking Tuzigoot National Monument and Verde River, Rain Spirit RV Resort is a new park with 63 full-service sites including 30/50-amp electric service, cable TV, and the Internet. Amenities include private restrooms/showers, a fitness room, laundry facilities, a recreation room, a library lounge, a pool and spa, and a dog run. This 5-star resort is a great home base from which to explore the historic town of Jerome, Sedona Red Rock Country, Old Town Cottonwood, and book an excursion on the Verde Valley Railway.

Oh! Kentucky Campground & RV Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Oh! Kentucky Campground & RV Park, Berea, Kentucky

Oh! Kentucky Campground & RV Park is an easy-on, easy-off I-75 at Exit 76. Our pull-through site was in the 75-foot range and level with utilities centrally located. The park offers 71 sites (all pull-through) with 50 and 30-amp electric service, water, and sewer.

Berea © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky, Berea is ranked among the top art communities in the U. S. Nestled between the Bluegrass region and the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains, Berea offers visitors over 40 arts and crafts shops featuring everything from handmade dulcimers and homemade chocolate to jewelry stores, art galleries, quilt-makers, and even glassblowing studios. Sculptures of mythical beasts, vibrantly painted open hands, and historic architecture are a few of the delights as one wanders the town and college.

iRVin’s RV Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

iRVin’s RV Park & Campground, Valemount, British Columbia

Big-rig friendly with pull-through sites in the 70-foot range, iRVin’s RV Park & Campground is a 5-star park with full-service sites including water, sewer, and electric power (choice of 30 or 50 amps). The park is nestled in the Robson Valley with a 360-degree mountain view, a quiet place where deer wander by occasionally. Wi-Fi worked well from our site (#27). No problem locating the satellite. iRVin’s is conveniently located one mile north of Valemount on Highway 5 en route to Alaska and an hour from Mount Robson and Jasper National Park.

Cedar Pass Campground © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Cedar Pass Campground, Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, the Cedar Pass Campground has 96-level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. Enjoy stunning sunsets, incredible night skies, and breathtaking sunrises from the comfort of your RV. Camping in Cedar Pass Campground is limited to 14 days. The campground is open year-round with limited availability in the winter season. Due to fire danger, campfires are not permitted in this campground, and the collection of wood is prohibited. However, camp stoves or contained charcoal grills can be used in campgrounds and picnic areas.

Buckhorn Lake RV Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Buckhorn Lake RV Resort, Kerrville, Texas

This upscale resort makes for a perfect home base to explore the Texas Hill Country. All sites are paved, have a paved patio, and offer satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and instant-on phone. Relax around the two heated swimming pools/spas. Tennis courts. Adult fitness center overlooking the creek.

While staying in the park, make it a point to see the “Club” section, a unique approach to the RV lifestyle. You’ll want to make this resort a repeat stop on your RVing agenda. On I-10, Exit 501 (Highway 1338), turn left, and scoot down a few hundred yards to the park on the left.

Wahweep RV Park and Campground © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Wahweep RV Park and Campground, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Page, Arizona

Centrally located at Wahweap Marina, the campsites are about one-quarter mile from the shore of Lake Powell. Wahweap offers plenty of fun with a wide variety of powerboats and water toys. You can also enjoy the restaurant, lounge, and gift shop at the Lake Powell Resort. This RV park/campground is a great place to enjoy the off-season solitude of Lake Powell. The campground offers 139 sites with 30 and 50-amp service, water, and sewer. Sites accommodate up to 45 feet. The season is an ideal time to visit nearby attractions including Rainbow Bridge, Antelope Canyon, Vermillion Cliffs, and Horseshoe Bend. 

Worth Pondering…

Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort.

—John Ruskin