Written by Rex Vogel, RVing with Rex explores North America one meaningful place at a time through destination guides, history, slow travel, and thoughtful storytelling. Drawing on years of RV travel and firsthand experience, the site helps readers move beyond simply seeing places to truly experiencing them.
Explore the guide to find some of the best in February camping across America
Looking for the perfect place to park your RV this month? With so many options across America, choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or trying it out for the first time, these campgrounds are worth your attention. Once you’ve found the ideal spot, you can explore RV options, learn about different types of RVs, and plan your next road trip—maybe even fall in love with the lifestyle enough to consider full-time RV living.
I didn’t select these parks at random. With more than 25 years of experience traveling the highways and byways of the U.S. and Western Canada, I’ve learned what makes an RV campground truly exceptional. From breathtaking views and thoughtful amenities to friendly staff and spotless facilities, it’s the little things that make a big difference. These 10 campgrounds represent the very best February destinations for RV travelers.
So, sit back, relax, and start planning your next adventure. Each of these parks has been personally visited and handpicked by RVing with Rex for their outstanding experiences.
Planning a trip for a different month? Check out my monthly RV park recommendations, including January 2026, February 2025, and March 2025 for more top destinations.
1. Lost Dutchman State Park, Apache Junction, Arizona
Lost Dutchman State Park is your gateway to amazing Sonoran Desert experiences and memories. Named after the fabled lost gold mine, Lost Dutchman State Park is located at the base of the Superstition Mountains on Apache Trail (SR-88), 5 miles northeast of Apache Junction.
The campground has 138 sites: 68 sites with electric (50/30/20 amp service) and water and the remainder non-hookup sites on paved roads for tents or RVs. Every site has a picnic table and a fire pit with an adjustable grill gate. There are no size restrictions on RVs. Well-mannered pets on leashes are welcome. Five camping cabins are situated perfectly so visitors can take advantage of both the sunrise and sunset right from the porch.
2. Hollywood Casino RV Park, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Hollywood Casino RV Park offers tranquil beauty of the outdoors with waterfront views and on-site shuttle service to the casino with three restaurants. The park is big-rig friendly featuring 80 back-in sites and 14 back-to-back pull-through sites.
Our site backs to a treed area on a bayou and is in the 55-60 foot range with 50/30-amp electric service, water, sewer, and cable TV. All interior roads and sites are concrete. Site amenities include metal picnic table and BBQ grill on concrete slab and garbage canister.
3. Palm Springs/Joshua Tree KOA, Desert Hot Springs, California
Palm Springs/Joshua Tree KOA offers guests a variety of amenities is a resort-style setting. The 287 back-in sites are 65-feet in length plus extra wide. 50/30 amp electric service, water, and sewer are centrally located back of center. Fast-speed Internet system works well and locating satellite for TV is a breeze. Interior roads are asphalt and sites gravel.
Desert Hot Springs area Natural Therapeutic Hot Springs is where the campground derives its healing waters for its large swimming pool and three hot tub spas. Other amenities include pickleball courts, billiard and recreation room, fitness room, library, playground, card and puzzle room, and dog park.
Bounded by the waters of the St. Charles, Copano, and Aransas bays, 314-acre Goose Island State Park is a coastal delight. Popular with Winter Texans during winter months, birders during spring and fall migration, and campers year-round, Goose Island State Park is located 10 miles north of Rockport, off State Highway 35. Developed RV campsites in a secluded, wooded area and bayfront area are available. Most sites offer water and electricity; six sites are full-service. Amenities include a fire ring, outdoor grill, and picnic table.
This southern Georgia state park is known for being one of the primary entrances to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp. The camping is great and comfortable here and the paddling and photographic opportunities are top notch. Add to that the fact that the fishing in the lake is excellent for warmouth, bluegill, catfish, and chain pickerel. Choose from 65 campsites with electricity, nine cottages, a lodge, or pioneer camp and be ready for a really cool experience.
6. Lake Osprey RV Resort, Elberta, Alabama
A new destination luxury RV resort, Lake Osprey is located near the sugar-sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast. The resort offers 147 RV sites located within a nature preserve next to Soldiers Creek Golf Club. Each RV lot has an extra-long 16-foot x 75-foot concrete pad, lighted pedestal, and lake or courtyard view. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and laundry.
Situated near the beautiful Tucson Mountains, Rincon Country West has 1100 spaces, including deluxe, pull-through RV sites, and a train depot. Amenities include full hookups with 30/50 amp electric, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, gated entry, private mailboxes, gated entry, laundry, showers, heated pool and spas, exercise room, woodworking shop, pottery room, lapidary room, card room, arts and crafts and sewing rooms, billiard room, tennis, pickleball, shuffleboard, and bocce ball.
Easy-on, easy-off (Interstate 12, Exit 22), Lakeside RV Park is big-rig friendly with 127 back-in and pull-through sites. Our back-in site was in the 55-60 foot range with 50/30-amp electric service, water, and sewer centrally located. Site amenities include picnic table and fire pit. The park features a beautiful 17-acre fishing lake, large pool with lounge chairs, family game room, laundry facilities, enclosed dog park, children’s playground, modern bath facilities, free Wi-Fi, and two large lake-view open air pavilions. All interior roads and sites are concrete.
9. Palm Canyon Campground, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Borrego Springs, California
Located within Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Palm Canyon campground has approximately 120 campsites and 6 group campsites. There are 51 RV campsites with full hookups. Each campsite has a table, fire ring, and grill. Several campsites also have shade structures. Campground amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, showers, RV dump station, group camping, and hike/biking camping.
Palm Canyon campground is just a few miles from the town of Borrego Springs. It is also located next to popular hiking trails (including the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail) and about a mile from the Visitor Center. Outdoor activities include biking, hiking, photography, picnicking, exploring historic sites, OHVing, and wild flower and wildlife viewing.
The resort is RV sites in one area and park models in another. The RV resort is well laid out and well maintained. The sites are spacious with long concrete pads and pario with crushed gravel to park your toad. The amenities are great! Four pools, a fitness center, baseball field, and many tennis and pickle ball courts.
Concluding thoughts
RV camping is more than just a way to travel; it’s a craft, a carefully curated experience shaped by attention to detail, thoughtful planning, and a love for the open road. The campgrounds highlighted here are not only destinations—they are reflections of quality in action. From the serene desert vistas at Lost Dutchman State Park to the luxury comforts of Lake Osprey RV Resort, each location demonstrates that excellence is never accidental.
As John Ruskin wisely noted, “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort.” These parks have earned their place on this list through intentional design, attentive management, and a commitment to providing RV travelers with memorable experiences.
As you plan your next February adventure—or any adventure—remember that the magic of RVing often lies in the small details: a well-maintained campsite, a quiet sunset over the water, or a friendly staff member who goes the extra mile. With a little effort and thoughtful planning, every journey can be elevated into a truly exceptional experience. Whether you are chasing winter sunshine, exploring hidden corners of the country, or simply enjoying the freedom of the road, these campgrounds prove that quality experiences await those who seek them intentionally.
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.
The Okefenokee Swamp moves to its own rhythm—a vast, dark-watered world where cypress knees rise like sentinels and every ripple tells a story. Here, travel isn’t about rushing; it’s about slowing down, noticing, and becoming part of the landscape itself.
In the Okefenokee Swamp, time moves differently. Here, travel isn’t measured in miles or checklists but in moments—quiet ripples, cypress shadows, and the patient rhythms of a landscape that refuses to hurry.
The Okefenokee Swamp does not reward haste. It resists it. Unlike destinations built around itineraries, attractions, or “must-see” lists, the Okefenokee offers something quieter and far more demanding: time, patience, and attention. In that sense, it stands as a living counterpoint to modern travel culture—and a near-perfect embodiment of what slow travel truly means.
In Slow Travel and RVing: A Growing Alignment, the idea of moving with intention rather than urgency is central. The Okefenokee reinforces this philosophy from the moment you arrive. Roads narrow. Cell service weakens. The landscape flattens and stretches outward replacing motion with stillness. You don’t pass through the swamp quickly; you ease into it. Even the air feels unhurried—thick, warm, and humming with insects and birdsong. Here, travel stops being about distance covered and becomes about presence.
Lessons in patience: Cypress, water, and the long view
Slow down, observe, and let the swamp reveal its rhythm
The swamp itself teaches patience. Cypress trees rise from dark water like ancient sentinels, their reflections barely disturbed by the slow glide of a turtle or the quiet ripple of an alligator slipping beneath the surface. Nothing happens quickly in the Okefenokee yet everything is always happening. It’s a place where the reward comes not from checking off experiences but from learning to be still long enough to notice them.
This echoes the lesson explored in The Long View: What Slow Landscapes Teach Us about Travel. The Okefenokee doesn’t reveal itself all at once. It unfolds over hours—sometimes days—as your senses recalibrate. The more time you give it, the more it gives back. Bird calls begin to distinguish themselves. Patterns in the water emerge. You start to recognize individual trees, stretches of open prairie, and the subtle shifts in light that signal changing weather or time of day. The landscape trains you to observe rather than consume.
Unlike iconic national parks that often overwhelm with scale or spectacle, the Okefenokee’s power is quieter and more intimate. It doesn’t demand awe; it invites relationship. A slow paddle through the swamp feels less like sightseeing and more like participation. You are not above or apart from the landscape—you are within it, moving at its pace, subject to its rhythms. This is slow travel at its most honest: a mutual exchange between traveler and place.
Enter gently, explore fully, and move at the swamp’s pace
As explored in Okefenokee Adventures at Stephen C. Foster State Park: Stargazing, Swamp Spirits & RV Comfort, there are multiple ways to experience the Okefenokee, each offering its own rhythm and perspective. This vast landscape—one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders and the largest blackwater wetland in the South—does not reveal itself all at once. Instead, it invites a gradual unfolding, rewarding those willing to move slowly and stay awhile.
Stephen C. Foster State Park, on the southern edge of the swamp, provides one of the most accessible and immersive gateways. Here, RV travelers, paddlers, and wildlife watchers find a balance of comfort and remoteness. Spanish moss–draped trees reflect off dark, still waters, while cypress knees rise from the swamp like quiet sentinels. From this base, visitors can glide through narrow channels, scan open prairies, and observe alligators, turtles, deer, raccoons, and a remarkable variety of birdlife—including herons, ibis, wood storks, and red-cockaded woodpeckers. When night falls, the absence of artificial light reveals some of the darkest, most star-filled skies in the region.
The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge expands this experience further. Its vast network of boardwalks, observation towers, and guided routes allows visitors to move deeper into the ecosystem while minimizing impact. Covering more than 438,000 acres, the refuge protects a living mosaic of wetlands where patience is rewarded with quiet encounters and a growing awareness of the swamp’s intricate rhythms.
To the north, Laura S. Walker State Park offers another perspective—smaller in scale but rich in atmosphere. Canoeing, hiking, and lakeside wandering provide opportunities for reflection and unhurried exploration reinforcing the idea that the edges of the Okefenokee can be just as meaningful as its interior.
Together, these access points shape a slow travel experience rooted in presence rather than movement. Whether arriving by RV, canoe, or foot, the Okefenokee encourages travelers to ease their pace, observe closely, and allow the landscape itself to set the rhythm of the journey.
The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge: Landscape, wildlife, and conservation
A vast wetland of wonder, home to rare wildlife and timeless rhythms
The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge forms the heart of this vast wetland and is the headwaters of the Suwannee and St. Marys rivers. Covering 353,981 acres of National Wilderness Area within its boundaries, the refuge is a Wetland of International Importance. It provides habitat for threatened and endangered species including the red-cockaded woodpecker, indigo snake, and wood stork as well as a wide variety of other wildlife.
The refuge is also world-renowned for its amphibian populations from frogs to salamanders which thrive in its complex network of cypress swamps, prairies, and peat beds. Visitors can explore its boardwalks, observation towers, and paddling routes to experience these ecosystems up close but all activities emphasize minimal impact to preserve the refuge’s delicate balance. Here, slow travel means observing, listening, and moving quietly through a landscape that has evolved over thousands of years.
Where the swamp’s ancient rhythms teach us patience and perspective
In The Painted Desert: A Case Study in Slow Travel, the emphasis is on how landscapes shaped over deep time ask us to reconsider our own sense of time. The Okefenokee operates on a similar wavelength though in a wetter, more enclosed form. Its peat beds have been forming for thousands of years. Its ecosystems evolved through cycles of fire, flood, and renewal that dwarf human timelines. Standing there, it becomes difficult to maintain the illusion that our schedules or plans matter very much at all.
This perspective shift is one of slow travel’s greatest gifts. The Okefenokee doesn’t entertain; it humbles. It reminds you that travel is not about escape but about recalibration—about remembering your place within a much larger, older system. Even the simple act of walking a boardwalk or paddling a canoe becomes meditative when stripped of urgency.
For RV travelers in particular, the Okefenokee offers a natural extension of the slow travel ethos. Staying nearby, lingering for several days, and returning to the swamp at different times of day allows the experience to deepen. Morning fog, midday heat, and dusk all reveal different personalities of the same place. The longer you stay, the more layered the experience becomes.
Settle in, linger longer, and let the swamp shape your pace
Camping in the Okefenokee is less about amenities and more about immersing yourself in the rhythms of the swamp. How you camp shapes how you experience the landscape and slow travel is easiest when your base allows time, flexibility, and connection.
Stephen C. Foster State Park
A serene base for paddling, wildlife, and star-filled nights
Reservations are recommended for guided boat tours of the famed swamp. Sunset and night tours may be available. More adventurous visitors may wish to rent canoes, kayaks, or jon boats for further exploration including a trip to historic Billy’s Island. Fishing is excellent particularly for warmouth, bluegill, catfish, chain pickerel, and bowfin. Boating is dependent upon water levels. Stargazers will appreciate the particularly dark skies.
RV camping: 79 sites, 55 with water and electricity. Multi-night stays allow you to experience the swamp at different times of day—morning mist, midday sun, and dusk’s golden light—without the rush of moving campsites.
Things to do & see: Boating, paddling, fishing, daily boat tours, stargazing, hiking, birding, nature photography.
Directions: From Fargo, drive 16 miles northeast on SR 177
Seasonal and timing tips – Stephen C. Foster State Park
Knowing when to visit Stephen C. Foster State Park can make all the difference in experiencing the Okefenokee at its most vibrant, comfortable, and rewarding.
Spring: Spring is one of the most rewarding times to visit Stephen C. Foster State Park. Mild temperatures, rising water levels, and increased wildlife activity make paddling and wildlife viewing especially rewarding. Birds are highly active, wildflowers begin to bloom, and the swamp feels alive with movement and sound.
Summer: Summer brings intense heat, humidity, and insects making it the most challenging season for visitors. Early morning and evening are the most comfortable times to explore particularly for paddling or wildlife observation. Despite the discomfort, summer reveals the swamp at its most vibrant—lush, green, and teeming with life—making patience and preparation essential.
Fall: Fall offers some of the best conditions for visiting. Cooler temperatures, fewer insects, and calmer waterways create ideal conditions for paddling, photography, and longer days outdoors. Wildlife remains active and the swamp takes on a quieter, more reflective character.
Winter: Winter is the most tranquil season at Stephen C. Foster State Park. Cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer visitors make it ideal for those seeking solitude. Migratory birds arrive and the clear air enhances visibility across the swamp. While nights can be cold, daytime exploration is comfortable and peaceful, rewarding travelers who come prepared.
A quiet lakeside retreat for reflection, wildlife, and slow exploration
Located near the northern edge of the Okefenokee Swamp, this park is home to fascinating creatures and plants including alligators and carnivorous pitcher plants. The park’s lake offers opportunities for fishing, swimming and boating, and kayaks and bicycles are available for rent. The 18-hole Lakes Golf Course features a clubhouse, golf pro, and junior/senior rates.
RV camping: 44 sites with water and electricity. These sites provide a reflective edge of the lake for walking, birdwatching, and observing early morning fog.
Things to do & see: Hiking, biking, birding, boating, fishing, geocaching, kayaking, and golf.
Directions: From Waycross, drive east on US-82 and south on SR-166 for a total of 10 miles
Seasonal and timing tips – Laura S. Walker State Park
Timing your visit to Laura S. Walker State Park helps you enjoy the swamp’s wildlife, weather, and quiet moments at their best.
Spring: Mild temperatures, rising water levels, and active wildlife make spring one of the best times to visit. Birdlife is especially abundant and paddling conditions are comfortable and rewarding.
Summer: Hot, humid, and buggy—summer is the most challenging season. Early-morning or late-evening exploration is best and visitors should be prepared for intense heat, high humidity, and insects.
Fall: Cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and calmer conditions make fall an excellent time for paddling, photography, and extended outdoor exploration.
Winter: Quiet and uncrowded, winter offers crisp air, excellent visibility, and a more contemplative experience though colder temperatures and fluctuating water levels require preparation.
Move intentionally, observe deeply, and linger without rush
Multi-night stays allow you to experience the swamp at different times of day.
Bring binoculars, field guides, and journals to enhance observation and reflection.
Respect wildlife and the environment—stay on designated sites and minimize light and noise at night.
Camping in the Okefenokee is not just about where you stay—it’s about how you stay. By choosing sites that allow lingering, pacing your exploration, and aligning with the swamp’s natural rhythms, your visit transforms into true slow travel.
Practical slow travel tips for the Okefenokee
Simple strategies to see more, linger longer, and move at the swamp’s pace
Experiencing the Okefenokee at a slow pace is best enhanced with a few mindful strategies. For RV travelers, staying multiple nights at Stephen C. Foster State Park allows you to experience the swamp at different times of day—morning mist, midday sun, and the warm glow of dusk all reveal unique rhythms of the landscape. RV access provides comfort without rushing, giving you the freedom to linger and observe.
For those who prefer immersion on the water, canoes and kayaks offer the quietest, most intimate connection with the swamp. Glide slowly through narrow channels and open prairies; even the faintest ripple of a paddle enhances your awareness of the swamp’s subtle sounds and movements. Guided paddling tours through the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge provide context for the swamp’s ecology and history while still allowing space for quiet observation.
Wildlife viewing is most rewarding at dawn and dusk when alligators, herons, and songbirds are most active. Boardwalks and observation towers make it possible to explore sensitive habitats without disturbing them, perfect for slow walkers who want to linger over details—watching dragonflies skim the water, noticing cypress knees rising like sentinels, or following a bird’s call through the swamp.
Timing your visit with the seasons also enhances slow travel. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures, vibrant wildlife activity, and comfortable paddling conditions. Summer, while hotter, rewards patience and careful pacing, reminding visitors that slowing down is not only a mindset but also a necessity.
Finally, plan your routes with intention rather than ambition. Instead of trying to “see it all,” allow yourself to settle into a few key areas and revisit them at different times. The swamp reveals its richness gradually, and the longer you stay, the more it offers in observation, reflection, and connection.
Patience offers connection, insight, and the lasting calm of the swamp
In a world increasingly optimized for speed, the Okefenokee remains stubbornly unoptimized—and that is precisely its gift. It does not bend to our timelines or expectations. Instead, it asks us to slow down enough to meet it on its own terms. In doing so, it offers something increasingly rare in modern travel: a sense of connection that lingers long after the journey ends.
Slow travel isn’t about doing less; it’s about seeing more. And few places illustrate that truth as clearly, or as quietly, as the Okefenokee.
Enjoyed this article? Share it with friends and your social network to inspire their next adventure!
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.
Explore the guide to find some of the best in December camping across America
Where should you park yourself and your RV this month? With so many options out there you may be overwhelmed with the number of locales calling your name.
Maybe you’re an experienced RV enthusiast, maybe you’ve never been in one—regardless, these RV parks are worth your attention. After finding the perfect campground, you can look into RV prices, the different types of RVs, and learn how to plan a road trip. Who knows, maybe you’ll love it so much you’ll convert to full-time RV living.
I didn’t just choose these RV parks by throwing a dart at a map. As an RVer with more than 25 years of experience traveling the highways and byways of America and Western Canada—learning about camping and exploring some of the best hiking trails along the way—I can say with confidence that I know what makes a great RV campground. From stunning views and accommodating amenities to friendly staff and clean facilities, the little things add up when you’re RV camping. And these campgrounds are truly the cream of the crop.
Here are 10 of the top RV parks and campgrounds to explore in December: one of these parks might be just what you’re looking for. So, sit back, relax and get ready for your next adventure at one of these incredible RV parks!
RVing with Rex selected this list of parks from those 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 November. Also check out my recommendations from December 2024 and January 2025.
Discover why sun-seeking snowbirds and long-term RV park guests flock to this pet-friendly oasis hidden in the Desert of San Jacinto Valley in Southern California. With more than 320 days of sunshine, Golden Village Palms RV Resort is known for over 60 seasonal activities aimed at those 55+, ranging from water volleyball to pickleball and ballroom dancing. When it’s time for a little me time, visit the fitness center, putting green, or one of the pools and spas.
Poche’s RV Park is a Cajun campground located approximately 5 miles north of Breaux Bridge. Poche’s sits on 93 beautiful acres and has 85 full concrete slab RV sites with full hookups which include electric (30 and 50 amp at each site), water, sewer, and Wi-Fi. Most sites back up to a pond to where you can walk out of your RV and start fishing within a few feet. Poche’s also has five different size cabins for rent to accommodate any size family.
Located throughout the property are five different fishing ponds which total roughly 51 acres of water. Within the ponds you can catch largemouth bass, bream, white perch, and several different types of catfish. You can also rent a paddle boat or single and tandem kayak to explore the ponds or bring your own.
The clubhouse is a 5,000 square feet recreation building with a complete wrap-around porch over the water on Pond 3.
3. Hollywood Casino RV Park, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Hollywood Casino RV Park offers tranquil beauty of the outdoors with waterfront views and on-site shuttle service to the casino with three restaurants. The park is big-rig friendly featuring 80 back-in sites and 14 back-to-back pull-through sites. Our site backs to a treed area on a bayou and is in the 55-60 foot range with 50/30-amp electric service, water, sewer, and cable TV.
All interior roads and sites are concrete. Site amenities include metal picnic table and BBQ grill on concrete slab and garbage canister.
4. McArthur’s Temple View RV Park, St. George, Utah
McArthur’s Temple View RV Park is a fairly typical older park with level sites and average spacing. Public areas are well maintained. Staff is professional and friendly. Excellent Wi-Fi with handheld router you take to your site for your own personal hotspot at no extra charge. Cable RV is available along with full-service amenities. Trash can at each site. Easy access from I-15 but far enough to keep noise level low.
5. Vista Del Sol RV Resort, Bullhead City, Arizona
This area has needed a new 5-star RV resort and in November 2015 a new Roberts resort opened with paved streets. The 88 wide concrete sites are terraced both back-ins and pull-in in the 65 foot range with paved sites and patios. The pull-in sites face to the west-northwest with views of the hills and mountains as well as Bullhead City, Laughlin, and the Colorado River. 50/30/20-amp electric service, water, sewer, and cable TV are conveniently located.
Resort services include Wi-Fi, two pools, one spa, fitness room, billiards/game room, daily activities, Doggie Park, gated entry, and clubhouse with commercial kitchen and serving area for groups. Within this gated 55+ community one can also purchase a 400 sq. ft. model home or a manufactured home in varied sizes.
This park has 41 pull-through and back-in RV sites with 30- and 50-amp hookups. The pet-friendly, RV park features several amenities such as high-end restrooms, showers, a modern laundry facility, barbecue grills, a swimming pool, and an on-site dog park near a beautiful pavilion. The park is conveniently located off Interstate 10, less than 20 miles west of downtown Mobile. Nearby attractions include Bellingham Gardens and Home, a 65-acre garden with year-round blooms; Battleship Memorial Park which includes the U.S.S. Alabama and the U.S.S. Drum, a submarine; and the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, the first Catholic parish on the Gulf Coast, established in 1703.
Big rig friendly with 100 foot long pull-through sites and utilities centrally located. This 5-star park is easy-on, easy off, a pleasant place to stop for a night, a week, or longer. It’s a great place to stop while traveling east or west on I-10 (Exit 45) or visiting northwestern Florida. This park is not listed in Good Sam.
This southern Georgia state park is known for being one of the primary entrances to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp. The camping is great and comfortable here and the paddling and photographic opportunities are top notch. Add to that the fact that the fishing in the lake is excellent for warmouth, bluegill, catfish, and chain pickerel. Choose from 65 campsites with electricity, nine cottages, a lodge, or pioneer camp and be ready for a really cool experience.
A 12 acre park, Sunny Acres RV Park offers big sites and lots of space. The park is away from interstate noise with access to I-10, I-25, and US-70. Amenities include large 40 foot wide sites, wide gravel streets throughout park, full hookups with 30 or 50 amp electric service, cable TV, free high speed Internet, laundry facilities, and private restrooms and showers.
Jamaica Beach RV Resort is across the street from the beach on Galveston Island with wide open views of the Gulf. The park offers 181 pull-through sites with full hookups, concrete pads, picnic table at every sites, and all-inclusive amenities like a 700-foot-long lazy river. Other park amenities include a relaxing beach pool, family pool, indoor infinity hot tub, outdoor hot tub, splash pad, 3 laundry facilities, 3 shower houses, and pickleball courts.
Explore the island destination Galveston at Jamaica Beach RV Resort. Enjoy a luxurious stay at an RV site or cottage only a five-minute walk from the beach. Spend your stay enjoying the extensive amenities available like the 700-foot lazy river, pickleball courts, infinity spa, outdoor theater, and more. In Galveston, enjoy bird watching, biking, hiking, and fishing.
Final thoughts
RV camping in December 2025 offers a chance to embrace the season’s magic whether you’re seeking sunny coastal escapes, vibrant desert landscapes, or cozy winter retreats surrounded by snow. With thoughtful preparation—insulating your RV, securing reservations early for popular campgrounds, and packing for varied weather—you can create a holiday adventure tailored to your style.
From festive RV parks decked out in holiday cheer to tranquil natural settings, there’s a perfect destination for every camper. Hit the road, immerse yourself in the winter wonder, and make this December an unforgettable journey.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in November 2025. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.
Worth Pondering…
Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort.
Step into a world where ancient waters mirror the stars, swamp legends stir after dark, and RV travelers find unexpected comfort at the edge of the wild
If you ever want to feel like you’ve driven your RV straight off the edge of the map and into the deep, breathing heart of the South aim your wheels toward Stephen C. Foster State Park. Tucked into the western edge of the Okefenokee Swamp this remote state park makes the perfect home base for anyone craving a mix of dark-sky serenity, swamp-side adventure, and alligator encounters that feel like they belong in another era.
We rolled in at dusk, our RV rumbling along the tree-lined road as Spanish moss swung gently over the windshield. The swamp was already speaking—frogs calling, insects buzzing, and something big splashing just far enough away not to be seen. As the last light faded, the sky cracked open with stars reminding us why this is the Southeast’s only gold-tier International Dark Sky Park.
But before settling into camp, it helps to understand the wild, ancient place that surrounds it.
The Okefenokee is not just a swamp—it’s a presence
The Okefenokee is a world unto itself—438,000 acres of tannin-rich, tea-colored water winding through prairies, cypress forests, and vast, untouched wetlands. Its name, derived from a Native term often interpreted as “Land of Trembling Earth” reflects a landscape that seems to shift beneath your feet where floating peat mats quiver and hidden channels lead deep into ancient wilderness. As the largest blackwater swamp in North America, the Okefenokee is biologically rich and visually surreal home to alligators basking on sun-soaked logs, sandhill cranes calling across open marsh, and lily-filled expanses that glow gold at sunrise.
Remote, quiet, and barely touched by modern development, this is a place where nature still feels primordial—and where every ripple, shadow, and drifting mist hints at stories far older than the park itself.
Blackwater gets its color from tannins—natural “tea” steeped from centuries of decaying leaves, pine needles, and peat. Instead of the muddy murk many imagine, the Okefenokee’s water is surprisingly clear beneath its amber tin, transforming the swamp into a realm of reflections. On calm mornings the surface becomes a sheet of liquid light mirroring cypress spires, Spanish moss, and drifting clouds with such precision that the line between water and sky nearly disappears.
This mirror effect is more than beautiful—it’s disorienting in the most magical way. Paddle a canoe through one of the narrow trails and you’ll feel as though you’re floating through a doubled world with trees rising above and perfectly replicated below. Even wildlife seems suspended in this luminous dimension: alligators glide like shadows, herons appear twice, and golden light at sunrise turns the dark water into polished bronze. In the Okefenokee, blackwater isn’t darkness—it’s a lens, magnifying the swamp’s quiet brilliance.
Blackwater gets its name from tannins—natural “tea” steeped from centuries of plant decay. Instead of muddy murk, the water is actually clear and reflective creating mirror-perfect scenes of cypress trees and Spanish moss.
In the Okefenokee, wildlife isn’t an add-on. It’s the main attraction.
The Okefenokee is one of North America’s great strongholds of biodiversity—a refuge where ancient species still thrive in a landscape largely unchanged for millennia. More than 15,000 American alligators call the swamp home slipping silently through the prairies and canals like living relics. Overhead, sandhill cranes trumpet across wide marshes while barred owls echo from the cypress shadows with their unmistakable call.
Turtles sun on half-submerged logs, otters weave playfully through the tea-dark water, and white-tailed deer appear at the edge of floating peat islands. In spring and summer, the Okefenokee explodes with life: dragonflies shimmer blue and green, tree frogs chorus through humid evenings, and swallow-tailed kites carve graceful arcs across the sky. This is a place where wildlife dictates the rhythm of the day—and where encounters, whether dramatic or quiet, feel like glimpses into a wilder, older South.
Seasons shape the Okefenokee’s moods—and your experience
The Okefenokee is a year-round destination but each season offers a different personality. Late fall through early spring is widely considered the best time to visit when cooler temperatures keep bugs at bay and wildlife is more active in the open sun. Winter brings crisp mornings, crystal-clear reflections on the blackwater, and some of the swamp’s most peaceful paddling conditions.
Spring is spectacular for birdlife—swallow-tailed kites return, wading birds nest, and wildflowers brighten the prairies. It’s also prime time for spotting alligators warming themselves along the banks.
Summer offers lush vegetation and dramatic afternoon clouds but it also brings heat, humidity, and mosquitoes making early morning outings the most comfortable.
No matter when you go, the swamp rewards patient travelers: quiet dawns, golden light, and the chance to experience one of America’s most ancient landscapes at its most intimate.
Home base: RV camping at Stephen C. Foster State Park
A peaceful, intimate RV experience
For travelers who want comfort without leaving the heart of the swamp, Stephen C. Foster State Park offers an ideal basecamp. The renovated campground caters to RVs of all sizes with electric and water hookups, level pads, and shaded sites tucked among towering pines and cypress fringes. Waking up here means stepping out your door to boardwalks, wildlife sightings, and the serene sounds of the swamp.
Beyond convenience, the campground provides easy access to paddling trails, wildlife observation areas, and the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center where exhibits detail the history, ecology, and folklore of the Okefenokee. Evenings are perfect for stargazing, as the park’s designation as an International Dark Sky Park ensures minimal light pollution and dazzling views of the Milky Way. Whether you’re seeking adventure by day or quiet reflection by night the RV campground at Stephen C. Foster makes the swamp approachable without sacrificing its wild charm.
Into the wild: Exploring the Okefenokee Swamp
Enter the swamp, and leave the ordinary behind
Stepping into the Okefenokee is like entering another world—an intricate labyrinth of cypress-lined waterways, floating peat islands, and endless marshes that seem to stretch to the horizon. Whether by canoe, kayak, or guided boat tour exploring the swamp up close immerses you in its quiet, primeval rhythm. Paddling down narrow trails you might catch glimpses of herons stalking the shallows, alligators drifting just beneath the surface, or deer stepping cautiously along hidden banks.
Each turn brings a new scene: mist rising off the blackwater at dawn, dragonflies flashing like jewels over sun-dappled marsh, and the call of the swamp echoing through ancient trees. Here, the modern world fades away leaving only the pulse of nature and the timeless dance of light and shadow on liquid amber. For those willing to venture beyond the boardwalk, the Okefenokee rewards curiosity, patience, and a sense of wonder with unforgettable encounters in one of America’s most remarkable wildernesses.
It’s a stargazer’s paradise—quiet, deep, and steady
Stephen C. Foster State Park is a rare gem for stargazers earning its designation as an International Dark Sky Park thanks to minimal light pollution and wide, open views over the swamp. On clear nights the Milky Way stretches overhead in brilliant detail, planets glow like jewels, and meteor streaks sometimes trace fleeting paths across the velvet sky.
The reflective blackwater amplifies the effect doubling the celestial spectacle in mirror-like pools that shimmer beneath cypress spires and Spanish moss. Even simple constellations take on a new life here framed by the silhouettes of ancient trees and the quiet chorus of nocturnal wildlife. For campers, canoeists, or anyone lucky enough to pause under these stars the Okefenokee transforms from a mysterious swamp into a cathedral of night, a place where the universe feels closer and the world’s worries drift away with the dark water.
Daytime adventures beyond the water
Adventure awaits on every boardwalk and trail
While the waterways of the Okefenokee are undeniably its signature feature the land around Stephen C. Foster State Park offers plenty of adventures for those who want to explore on foot or by land. Boardwalks and nature trails wind through cypress groves, pine forests, and marsh edges providing opportunities to spot turtles, deer, and a variety of birds without leaving dry ground.
Hiking trails like Trembling Earth Nature Trail, Green Trail and Swamp Island Trail reveal historic remnants of logging roads and old canals hinting at the human history intertwined with the swamp’s wild character. Wildlife observation platforms and elevated overlooks allow for quiet photography sessions or simply soaking in the swamp’s unique beauty. Even casual strolls bring the chance to discover wildflowers, dragonflies, and the delicate patterns of sunlight filtering through moss-draped branches.
Nearby trails in Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Step beyond the park and discover hidden corners of the Okefenokee
If you’re willing to leave the state park and explore the Refuge’s upland trail system, here are some accessible and scenic options:
Canal Diggers Trail (~ 0.63 miles): Parallels the Suwannee Canal; good for birdwatching and quiet nature time.
Cane Pole Trail (~ 0.35 miles one way): Accessible boardwalk; leads to an observation platform/overlook.
Chesser Island Boardwalk & Homestead Trail (~ 0.79 miles for boardwalk + ~0.47 for the homestead loop): These let you walk through cypress forest, scrub-shrub zones, and toward the historic island homestead.
Tips for hiking the trails
Prepare well, and the swamp reveals its secrets
Exploring the Okefenokee on foot can be as rewarding as paddling its waterways but the swamp has its quirks. A few simple tips can help you stay comfortable, safe, and make the most of every trail.
Wear waterproof or sturdy shoes since some parts are damp or may flood.
Early morning or late afternoon are great times for wildlife spotting (birds, turtles, deer).
Bring bug spray especially in warm months.
Carry a map or get one from the visitor center—the swamp’s edge trails and boardwalks can feel disorienting after a while.
Stephen C. Foster State Park is more than just a place to park your RV—it’s a gateway to the Okefenokee’s wonders. Here are ten must-do activities all accessible from the campground:
Paddle the Suwannee Canal – Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the heart of the swamp spotting alligators, herons, and other wildlife along the way.
Sunset Boat Tour – Join a guided tour for breathtaking evening light and a chance to hear swamp folklore from knowledgeable guides.
Trembling Earth Nature Trail – Walk the elevated boardwalk to get a close look at the swamp’s interior and its mirrored waters.
Stargazing at the park – Take advantage of the dark-sky designation for Milky Way views, planets, and shooting stars.
Wildlife photography – Early mornings offer perfect light and quiet for capturing herons, deer, turtles, and other swamp residents.
Visitor Center exhibits – Learn about the swamp’s ecology, history, and legends at the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center.
Upland Pine Trail – Take a short hike through drier pine forests for a contrasting perspective on the Okefenokee ecosystem.
Chesser Island Boardwalk – Explore historic sites and elevated trails that wind through cypress forests and marshes.
Fishing from the bank or boat – Try your luck for bass, bream, or catfish in the park’s calm waters.
Relax at your campsite – Sometimes the best adventure is soaking in the quiet, listening to the swamp’s sounds, and watching wildlife from the comfort of your RV or campsite.
From paddling to hiking to simple relaxation, the campground puts the swamp—and its countless experiences—right at your doorstep.
Reflections from the water’s edge and beneath the stars
There are places you visit and there are places you feel. The Okefenokee is the latter—an ancient, breathing wilderness that leaves its mark long after you’ve driven away.
Staying in your RV at Stephen C. Foster State Park gives you the rare ability to experience the swamp’s rawness by day and its stillness by night. As you sit by the fire or beneath a sky thick with stars, it’s easy to hear echoes of Stephen Foster, the park’s namesake, whose music captured the spirit of the South.
As Foster famously wrote: “All the world is sad and dreary… everywhere I roam.” But here in the Okefenokee, the world feels anything but dreary.
And when you watch dawn rise over the swamp—mist curling, birds calling, blackwater shining—you might remember another line: “I’m going back to the old folks… far, far away.”
Because this place feels far away in the best possible way: untouched, quiet, timeless.
For RV travelers seeking a rare blend of tranquility, adventure, and wonder, the Okefenokee calls softly—but unmistakably.
If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in November
Your own path you make with every step you take. That’s why it’s your path.
—Joseph Campbell
Renowned for popularizing the concept of the “hero’s journey” in storytelling (in which the hero goes on an adventure, learns a lesson, and returns transformed), writer and mythologist Joseph Campbell posits here that we can’t follow someone else’s footsteps to success, happiness, or fulfillment. There is no set template for how a life should be lived: It is your life, after all, and you must make each step of the way uniquely your own.
Echoing Joseph Campbell’s wisdom that each step forges a unique path, RV travel embodies the essence of crafting one’s own journey unbound by a prescribed route or societal blueprint. Much like the hero in Campbell’s narrative, RV travelers embark on adventures that shape them—each mile driven, each campsite chosen, each detour embraced becomes a step toward self-discovery.
Whether navigating the winding roads of Georgia’s Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway or pausing to marvel at the vastness of the Canyonlands National Park, the RV journey is not about following a map laid out by others but about carving a personal trail through the world’s wonders. Every decision, from the rig’s maintenance to the destinations chosen, reflects the traveler’s individuality transforming the open road into a living testament to a life uniquely lived.
Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in September and October. Also check out my recommendations from November 2024 and December 2024.
An evolution of Urbanna Days that began in 1957, the Urbanna Oyster Festival (68th annual, November 7-8, 2025) as we know it today hosts over 50,000 people in the square mile town over two days. Visitors flock from all over to celebrate the oyster!
In 1988 it were designated as the “official” oyster festival of the Commonwealth of Virginia and maintain that title today.
Come by BOAT or come by LAND! The charming Town of Urbanna closes it’s streets for this big celebration of everything OYSTER! Its foodie heaven with over 50 food vendors and every kind of OYSTER! Raw, steamed, roasted, Rockefeller, fried, stewed, oysters in a pot pie and festival food fare like BBQ and crab bisque!
Arts and crafts, antique auto show, children’s activities, and live bands are spread throughout the town. The town marina offers historical boats and exhibits on the conservation of the Chesapeake Bay, watermen, and the oyster industry.
This celebration of one of the South’s top crops offers a unique autumn attraction for up to 75,000 attendees each year in Colfax, Louisiana. Held on the first full weekend in November (November 7-8, 2025), the Louisiana Pecan Festival typically kicks off on Friday with Children’s Day which features a petting zoo, rock walls, games, and other free family-friendly activities. Festival attendees will enjoy a parade, live music, arts and crafts booths, a cooking contest, carnival rides, and fireworks throughout the weekend.
Visitors can sample and purchase pecan specialties including pies, pralines, jams, and candies as well as catch numerous live performances by the Louisiana Pecanettes dance team composed of local high schoolers. This event is also a great place to gobble goodies like funnel cakes, fried chicken and alligator on a stick from vendors.
Canyonlands National Park is one of Utah’s Mighty Five, yet it is an underrated gem. Nonetheless, its picturesque surroundings, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and lower crowds than other Utah national parks make this underrated gem worth a visit despite being an overlooked National Park for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
November is one of the least-crowded months to visit the Canyonlands. Although November may be cold with an average high of 50°F and a low of 33°F the days are ideal for outdoor adventures and exploration. Also, now is the perfect time to drive on the White Rim Road because obtaining a permit is easy.
The park is divided into four districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the River. Each district has its own unique charm and opportunity for sightseeing and adventure. A trip to Canyonlands in November has something for everyone including driving, cycling, hiking, camping, stargazing, and ranger programs.
November is a wonderful time to visit Zion National Park. The weather during the day is ideal for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, canyoneering, and nature and wildlife photography.
With average highs of 64 degrees and lows of 37 degrees Fahrenheit, the days are warm and the mornings and evenings are chilly. This is a lovely break from the intense summer heat and the weather is just perfect for enjoying Zion’s best hikes.
Yes, the shuttle to Zion National Park operates in November but it does so less often and for fewer hours a day. There are many opportunities to see wildlife including mule deer, Bighorn sheep, and migratory birds. What more? Leaf peepers are in for a treat in November as the fall colors make the park even more eye-striking.
Socorro, New Mexico is the perfect place to visit for nature and bird-watching lovers in November. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is near the town famous for its Bosque del Apache Festival Of The Cranes in eatly December. It is a breathtaking spectacle of nature. Thousands of sandhill cranes and geese migrate here for winter from the north.
Standing on pencil-thin legs, sandhill cranes have a captivating elegance. They spread their wings with stately grace. They dance and take flight swaying against the sky. Their large bodies are covered with brownish-gray feathers and their heads are strikingly white and red.
The colors of the feathers are not intense. Rather, they’re subdued, reminiscent of the colors of dry grasses. This is for a good reason: the bland colors of the feathers blend with the colors of the meadow making the cranes difficult to spot by a potential predator. And there are plenty of those as numerous coyotes gather in the area hoping for an easy meal.
After sunset, waves of cranes are approaching from all sides. Birds flock to the refuge’s shallow swamps to survive the night safely.
At dawn, they take flight to feed at the surrounding fields and water reservoirs.
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is also worth seeing because of its hiking trails where you can spot coyotes, deer, eagles, and hawks. Best of all, Albuquerque is just a one hour drive north.
A quiet haven tucked into the rolling hills of southern Arizona, Patagonia is surrounded by some of the richest biodiversity in the state. The area is a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers, and those seeking peaceful natural beauty. Just a short drive from town, Patagonia Lake State Park offers a calm, scenic spot for kayaking, fishing, or swimming with views of tree-lined shores and distant hills.
Nearby, the Sonoita Creek Preserve, one of Arizona’s best riparian habitats, is a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts because the preserve draws rare and migratory birds. Even more birdlife awaits at the Paton Center for Hummingbirds, a beloved spot for catching views of colorful species. For those craving wide-open scenery, the back roads surrounding Patagonia lead to historic ghost towns, quiet ranches, and panoramic vistas of the Santa Rita Mountains. With its blend of water, wildlife, and wide skies, Patagonia remains one of Arizona’s most captivating and underrated nature escapes.
Georgia’s mountains refuse to be overshadowed by its spectacular beaches, so it’s no wonder millions of travelers make their way to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest every year. Encompassing nearly 867,000 acres, the national forest is home to miles of freshwater streams and rivers, waterfalls, numerous campgrounds, and plenty of space to hike and breathe in the fresh mountain air. For epic views, drive the 40-mile Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway through valleys and mountain passes with stops at scenic overlooks along the way.
Perhaps best known as the gateway city to pristine Cumberland Island, the coastal town of St. Marys draws visitors with a host of natural attractions. Three rivers—the St. Marys, the Crooked, and the North—and the Cumberland Sound come together here making it a popular destination for fishing and boating. Birdwatchers flock here, too, as they travel Georgia’s Colonial Coast Birding Trail along which more than 300 species have been spotted.
New gardens and walking paths enhance the downtown, home to a charming bookstore (Once Upon a Bookseller), a vibrant art gallery (Old Towne Gallery), and a handful of antiques dealers. Continue on foot to the nearby St. Marys History Walk and discover local history—from Timucua settlements in the 1500s to the shipbuilding industry of the 19th and 20th centuries—from a series of interpretative panels set along the shaded trail.
Discover more about the town’s maritime legacy at the St. Marys Submarine Museum where you can get a feel for life aboard a sub, or walk with a guide from Molly’s Old South Tours to explore St. Marys’ legacy of lawlessness from centuries past (tours are also available on Cumberland Island).
Ever wanted to paddle through a real swamp without worrying about getting lost?
Stephen C. Foster State Park is your gateway to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp. This park sits at the edge of one of the oldest and most preserved freshwater systems in America.
The night sky here earned it certification as a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park. That means the stargazing is so good, you’ll see stars you never knew existed!
Renting a canoe or kayak lets you explore the blackwater canals lined with cypress trees. Those cypress knees poking up from the water look like tiny swamp creatures watching you pass. Alligators sun themselves on logs, barely giving you a glance as you paddle by. Just keep a respectful distance, and they’ll do the same!
The guided boat tours take you deeper into the swamp with rangers who know all its secrets. They’ll point out plants and animals you might miss on your own.
Birders, bring your binoculars—over 230 bird species have been spotted here. The eerie call of barred owls asking “Who cooks for you?” echoes through the trees at dusk.
The boardwalk trail lets you experience the swamp without getting your feet wet. Spanish moss hangs from the trees like nature’s own decorations.
Camping here means falling asleep to a symphony of frogs and waking to mist rising off the water. It’s like camping in another world—one that’s been here long before us.
10. Savor the South at Charleston’s Food & Wine Classic 2025
From November 14-16, 2025, Charleston comes alive with the Food & Wine Classic, a three-day culinary celebration that brings together world-renowned chefs, culinary icons, and top beverage experts. Experience over 40 dynamic events including live cooking demonstrations, wine and cocktail seminars, and interactive panel discussions led by stars like Emeril Lagasse, Maneet Chauhan, Tyler Florence, and Charleston’s own Mike Lata and Rodney Scott.
The Grand Tasting Pavilion, the festival’s centerpiece, invites guests to sample offerings from more than 100 wineries, distillers, and local restaurants. Special curated experiences such as the Pearls of the Coast Oyster Roast and the Southern Living Lowcountry Tailgate blend Charleston’s coastal charm, Southern BBQ, and exceptional cocktails into unforgettable gatherings. This premier Food & Wine event captures the rich food culture and legendary hospitality of the Lowcountry, promising inspiration and indulgence in an iconic setting
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in October 2025. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.
Final thoughts
November 2025 is a prime time for RV adventures with autumn’s vibrant colors, milder crowds, and comfortable weather perfect for exploring diverse landscapes from desert trails to coastal shores. Expect daytime highs in the 60s°F, cooler nights, and occasional festivals or wildlife migrations to enrich your journey.
Pack layers for variable conditions and check forecasts to avoid early storms or closures at higher elevations. With quieter campgrounds and scenic drives, this month offers a blend of natural beauty and practical amenities making it an ideal season to embrace the freedom of RV travel before winter arrives.
Worth Pondering…
In November, the trees are standing all sticks and bones. Without their leaves, how lovely they are, spreading their arms like dancers. They know it is time to be still.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
State parks are fantastic for wildlife enthusiasts offering a range of ecosystems and species to observe. Here are some standout state parks known for exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
State parks across the United States offer wildlife enthusiasts unparalleled opportunities to observe diverse species in their natural habitats. From the rugged deserts of Nevada’s Valley of Fire to the lush wetlands of Florida’s Myakka River, these protected areas showcase a remarkable range of ecosystems teeming with life.
Whether it’s spotting desert bighorn sheep scaling rocky cliffs, marveling at alligators gliding through swamps, or catching a glimpse of a bald eagle soaring above ancient forests, state parks provide accessible gateways to connect with nature. With trails, scenic drives, and guided tours tailored for wildlife viewing, these parks cater to adventurers and casual observers alike, making them must-visit destinations for anyone passionate about the natural world.
Beyond their biodiversity, state parks are vital for conservation, preserving habitats for endangered and iconic species while offering educational experiences about local ecosystems. Parks like Custer in South Dakota or Stephen Foster in Georgia not only harbor animals like bison and alligators but also foster a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature. Visitors can hike through pristine wilderness, paddle along serene waterways, or camp under starlit skies, all while encountering wildlife in settings ranging from coastal dunes to mountain lakes.
By following park guidelines such as maintaining safe distances and visiting during dawn or dusk for peak animal activity wildlife lovers can ensure respectful and memorable encounters, making state parks enduring sanctuaries for both animals and those who seek to admire them.
As you plan your next road trip save some room on the itinerary for one of the following state parks each one boasting its own unique array of indigenous flora and fauna.
Custer State Park, located in the Black Hills of southwestern South Dakota, is a renowned 71,000-acre preserve celebrated for its abundant wildlife, scenic drives, and broad array of outdoor activities. The park is home to one of the largest publicly-owned free-ranging bison herds in the world (about 1,300–1,500 animals) as well as elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, deer, coyotes, wild burros, prairie dogs, and many bird species. Wildlife observation is particularly popular along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road where ‘Buffalo Jams’ are common as herds cross the route.
Custer State Park is also known for its annual Buffalo Roundup each fall (September 26, 2025) where herds are managed and some bison sold at auction. The park features diverse accommodations from historic lodges and modern cabins to campgrounds and equestrian facilities. The park is open year-round and autumn visits afford stunning fall colors and active wildlife.
Custer State Park is especially recommended for those seeking close encounters with wildlife, scenic landscapes, and a wide variety of outdoor experiences. For the best wildlife viewing, visit early in the morning or late in the day. The park is an outdoor paradise for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike.
Visitors are often delighted by the park’s famous “begging burros” which approach vehicles and interact with travelers.
Why visit: Home to over 1,300 bison, this 71,000-acre park in the Black Hills offers a frontier-like experience with prairies, pine forests, and granite cliffs. Wildlife includes elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, wild turkeys, and the famous begging burros.
Highlights: The Wildlife Loop Road offers prime opportunities to spot bison often approaching vehicles especially at dawn or dusk. Hiking trails like Cathedral Spires or Black Elk Peak provide chances to see bighorn sheep and elk in rugged terrain. The park’s clear skies also make it ideal for stargazing complementing nocturnal animal sightings like bats or owls.
Tips for wildlife viewing: Keep a safe distance from bison (at least 100 yards) as they can be unpredictable. Bring binoculars for spotting distant animals like mountain goats on cliffs. Visit early morning or late evening for peak wildlife activity. Reservations for camping or lodging such as at Sylvan Lake Lodge are recommended especially in summer given the park’s popularity.
Stephen C. Foster State Park is a 120-acre state park located within the Okefenokee Swamp serving as a primary western entrance to this extensive wetland wilderness. The park is renowned for its exceptional dark skies certified by the International Dark Sky Association making it one of the best locations in the southeastern United States for stargazing.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a range of activities including guided boat and pontoon tours, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, biking, and wildlife photography. The swamp hosts a rich array of wildlife such as alligators, turtles, black bears, various wading birds, and the rare red-cockaded woodpecker.
The park offers facilities like tent, trailer, and RV campsites, cottage rentals, an interpretive center, the 1.5-mile Trembling Earth Nature Trail, and 25 miles of waterways for exploration. The park’s campground is highly rated for its seclusion and proximity to wildlife making it a great base for extended stays. Its dark sky status enhances nocturnal wildlife observation and stargazing.
Why visit: As the gateway to the 402,000-acre Okefenokee Swamp this park is a biodiversity hotspot with alligators, black bears, and over 200 bird species including wading birds like herons and egrets. The swamp’s cypress forests and Spanish moss create a unique habitat for carnivorous plants and other wildlife.
Highlights: Canoeing or kayaking through the swamp, birdwatching, and spotting alligators in their natural habitat.
Tips for wildlife viewing: Wildlife especially alligators, birds (e.g., herons, ibis), and mammals like otters are most active early morning or late afternoon. Schedule boat tours or hikes around these times for the best sightings.
The park’s iconic herd of 500–700 bison roams the grasslands
Antelope Island State Park is the largest island in Utah’s Great Salt Lake renowned for its dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife—including a free-roaming bison herd—and accessible outdoor recreation near Salt Lake City. The park is connected to the mainland by a seven-mile causeway and features beaches, mountain trails, a marina, campgrounds, and the historic Fielding Garr Ranch.
The island supports over 600 bison, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, coyotes, and is a world-class birding destination attracting millions of waterfowl annually. Free-roaming bison are a signature attraction with wildlife viewed from hiking trails, roads, or at the visitor center.
Expansive views of Great Salt Lake, mountain backdrops, white-sand beaches, and sunset vistas from Frary Peak and Buffalo Point draw nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The park offers 36 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, horseback riding, paddling, cycling, sailing, beach swimming, and year-round camping. The northern part of the island is more developed for these activities.
Why visit: Located on the Great Salt Lake, this 42-square-mile park is a “Noah’s Ark” for wildlife hosting bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, and coyotes. The bison herd is easily visible from roads or campsites and hiking trails offer chances to see bighorn sheep in the hills. The annual bison roundup is a unique event to observe herd management.
Highlights: Bison and bighorn sheep sightings, hiking, and horseback riding for wildlife viewing.
Tips for wildlife viewing: The 7-mile Davis County Causeway and park roads like White Rock Bay Loop are excellent for spotting bison grazing, pronghorn in fields, and shorebirds along the lake’s edge. Drive slowly (25 mph) to avoid startling animals.
Unique desert wildlife including Peninsular bighorn sheep, coyotes, kit foxes, desert tortoises, and over 200 bird species
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California’s largest state park renowned for its diverse desert landscapes, unique geology, outstanding spring wildflower blooms, and accessible palm oases. Located in eastern San Diego County near Borrego Springs, it offers more than 600,000 acres of wilderness with sweeping badlands, canyons, slot canyons, cacti, rugged hills, and dramatic vistas.
Over 130 trails showcase the park’s geology including easy family hikes and strenuous treks with panoramic views such as the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail—leading to an oasis of native fan palms, and the Oriflamme Canyon Trail for elevated vistas. Slot canyons and badlands formations are a highlight with marked trails for safe exploration.
The Galleta Meadows area near Borrego Springs features over 130 large steel sculptures by Ricardo Breceda depicting prehistoric animals and mythical creatures.
In early spring, the park transforms with spectacular wildflower blooms after winter rains attracting visitors for colorful displays of sand verbena, desert sunflower, and more.
The park is home to bighorn sheep (“borrego”), roadrunners, and over 80 migratory bird species. Lush palm oases such as Borrego Palm Canyon are prominent stops for wildlife viewing.
As an International Dark Sky Park, Anza-Borrego is a premier California destination for stargazing. Desert nights offer some of the best celestial views in the region.
Why visit: Spanning 600,000 acres, this is California’s largest state park and a haven for desert wildlife like bighorn sheep, coyotes, javelina, and jackrabbits. Its 110 miles of hiking trails and 12 designated wildlife areas offer ample viewing opportunities, while the night sky provides exceptional stargazing. The park also features over 500 fossil types and 130+ giant metal animal sculptures.
Highlights: Desert hikes, bighorn sheep sightings, and paleontological significance.
Tips for wildlife viewing: Look for Peninsular bighorn sheep (best in Borrego Palm Canyon or Hellhole Canyon, early morning), kit foxes (nocturnal, near washes), and desert tortoises (spring/fall, low elevations). Bird highlights include greater roadrunners, Swainson’s hawks (migratory, spring), and western bluebirds in oases.
Rivers, lakes, marshes, prairies, and hammocks support abundant wildlife
Myakka River State Park located near Sarasota, Florida, is one of the oldest and largest state parks in the state covering about 37,000 acres of wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands. The Myakka River, a designated Wild and Scenic River, flows for 14 miles through the park offering a vital habitat for alligators, water birds, and countless other native species.
The park is famous for its rich biodiversity with abundant opportunities to spot alligators, deer, water birds (herons, ibis, vultures, eagles), and other Florida wildlife from boardwalks overlooking the Upper Myakka Lake and river.
Over 39 miles of loop hiking trails explore live oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, prairies, and wetlands. Horseback riding and biking are also popular on the park’s extensive trail system.
The park features North America’s first public treetop trail—a suspension bridge 25 feet up among the trees and a 74-foot tower offering panoramic views.
Flat-bottomed boat tours on Upper Myakka Lake provide close encounters with wildlife and narrated insights. Safari tram tours are available December through May for a guided backcountry experience. Tickets are sold on-site and operate weather permitting.
Why visit: One of Florida’s largest state parks at 37,000 acres, it features wetlands, prairies, and hammocks teeming with alligators, roseate spoonbills, sandhill cranes, and manatees. The park’s river and lakes are ideal for spotting wading birds and reptiles.
Highlights: Canopy walkway for birdwatching, airboat tours for alligator and manatee sightings, and biking the park’s trails for deer and wild hogs.
Tips for wildlife viewing: Expect to see American alligators (abundant, especially at Deep Hole), wading birds (roseate spoonbills, great egrets, wood storks), white-tailed deer, wild hogs, river otters, and occasional bobcats. Bird highlights include limpkins, bald eagles, and sandhill cranes (winter). Rare sightings include Florida black bears or manatees in the river.
A rich coastal ecosystem with beaches, maritime forests, wetlands, and freshwater lakes
Spanning over 6,150 acres in Gulf Shores, Alabama, this coastal park features pristine beaches, maritime forests, wetlands, and freshwater lakes, hosting diverse wildlife such as alligators, bobcats, shorebirds, and sea turtles. Expect American alligators, bobcats, river otters, white-tailed deer, red foxes, and gopher tortoises. Birds include ospreys, bald eagles, brown pelicans, and migratory species like northern gannets. Loggerhead sea turtles nest on beaches (May-August).
The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system named the best recreational trail in the U.S. by USA Today in 2023 spans 28 miles of paved paths through forests, marshes, and dunes. Spot deer, foxes, coyotes, alligators, and shorebirds.
Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Lake Shelby or Middle Lake to explore wetlands for alligators, river otters, and waterfowl like great egrets. Guided tours with Gulf Coast Journeys or Wild Native Tours enhance wildlife spotting.
The Gulf State Park Campground (496 RV/tent sites, plus primitive options) is ideal for dawn/dusk wildlife observation near Lake Shelby or marshes. Sites include water/electric hookups, restrooms, and showers.
Why visit: This 6,500-acre park along the Gulf Coast features beaches, marshes, and pine forests, hosting alligators, ospreys, herons, and sea turtles. Its diverse habitats, including freshwater lakes and coastal dunes, support a wide range of species.
Highlights: Fishing pier for pelican and dolphin sightings, kayaking Lake Shelby for alligators, and the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail for birdwatching.
Tips for wildlife viewing: Alligators, bobcats, otters, and birds like ospreys, brown pelicans, and great blue herons are most active early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and crowds are minimal. Schedule hikes, bike rides, or kayak trips during these times for optimal sightings.
Excellent spot for observing desert-adapted species in their natural environment
Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada is the state’s oldest and largest park, famous for its vibrant red sandstone formations, scenic roads, petroglyphs, and iconic hiking trails. It’s located about an hour northeast of Las Vegas making it an accessible day trip and a premier destination for hiking, photography, and outdoor recreation.
Despite its desert appearance, Valley of Fire State Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Desert bighorn sheep (rams and ewes), coyotes, desert kit fox, black-tailed jackrabbit, spotted skunk, wood rat, and antelope ground squirrels.
The Fire Wave Trail is a 1.5-mile out-and-back that trail leads to colorful, swirling sandstone reminiscent of Arizona’s famous Wave with vivid red, pink, and orange bands. This area is closed for hiking June–September due to extreme heat hazards.
Mouse’s Tank Road features sweeping desert vistas framed by towering red and orange rock formations and is renowned for its photo opportunities. Wildlife such as desert bighorn sheep are sometimes seen from the road
Why visit: This 40,000-acre park is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, renowned for its vibrant red sandstone formations and diverse desert wildlife. It’s a haven for wildlife lovers, hosting desert bighorn sheep, kit foxes, coyotes, and a variety of reptiles like sidewinder rattlesnakes and chuckwallas. The park’s arid landscape also supports unique birds such as roadrunners and red-tailed hawks.
Highlights: Hiking trails like Mouse’s Tank for bighorn sheep sightings, especially in early morning or late afternoon. The Fire Wave trail offers stunning geology and chances to spot lizards and jackrabbits. Petroglyph sites add a cultural layer to wildlife exploration. The park’s low light pollution makes it ideal for spotting nocturnal animals like bats under starry skies.
Tips for wildlife viewing: Always maintain a safe distance from animals, bring binoculars for better observation, visit during dawn or dusk for peak activity, and check park websites for trail closures or safety alerts.
These parks offer diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, making them must-visit destinations for nature enthusiasts
Take only memories
A wildlife trip to a state park makes for a welcome alternative to urban life and the computer screen. But to stand your best chance of spotting some gems and avoiding harm to the park’s natural life, leave no trace.
Keep quiet and stay still where possible
Dress in natural tones and don’t wear scent
Keep your distance and never feed wildlife
Take only memories (and photos); leave only footprints
And don’t forget to look at the clouds
Worth Pondering…
Nature is a mutable cloud which is always and never the same.
Explore the guide to find some of the best in February camping across America
Where should you park yourself and your RV this month? With so many options out there you may be overwhelmed with the number of locales calling your name.
Maybe you’re an experienced RV enthusiast, maybe you’ve never been in one—regardless, these RV parks are worth your attention. After finding the perfect campground, you can look into RV prices, the different types of RVs, and learn how to plan a road trip. Who knows, maybe you’ll love it so much you’ll convert to full-time RV living.
I didn’t just choose these RV parks by throwing a dart at a map. As an RVer with more than 25 years of experience traveling the highways and byways of America and Western Canada—learning about camping and exploring some of the best hiking trails along the way—I can say with confidence that I know what makes a great RV campground. From stunning views and accommodating amenities to friendly staff and clean facilities, the little things add up when you’re RV camping. And these campgrounds are truly the cream of the crop.
Here are 10 of the top RV parks and campgrounds to explore in February: one of these parks might be just what you’re looking for. So, sit back, relax and get ready for your next adventure at one of these incredible RV parks!
RVing with Rex selected this list of parks from those 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 January. Also check out my recommendations from February 2024 and March 2024.
1. Edisto Beach State Park, Edisto Island, South Carolina
Edisto Beach State Park offers access to the Atlantic Ocean and beach. It also provides access to the saltwater marsh and creeks. An environmental education center highlights the natural history of Edisto Island and the surrounding ACE Basin.
The trails wind through Edisto Island’s maritime forest of live oak, hanging Spanish moss, and palmetto trees. During your walk you may see white-tailed deer, osprey, or alligators.
112 RV and tent camping sites with water and 20/30/50 amp electrical service is available ocean-side and near the salt marsh. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for park guests near the office area and in the Wi-Fi room located adjacent to the office.
This southern Georgia state park is known for being one of the primary entrances to the legendary Okefenokee Swamp. The camping is great and comfortable here and the paddling and photographic opportunities are top notch. Add to that the fact that the fishing in the lake is excellent for warmouth, bluegill, catfish, and chain pickerel.
Choose from 65 campsites with electricity, nine cottages, a lodge, or pioneer camp and be ready for a really cool experience.
3. Indian Waters RV Resort and Cottages, Indio, California
Indian Waters RV Resort is located in the Coachella Valley City of Indio, an area that includes the desert cities of Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, and La Quinta. Recently renovated, this beautiful property has added cottages, a second pool, lighted pickleball courts, 50 amp electric and city sewer service to all sites, resurfacing of roads and sites, enhanced Wi-Fi, and a complete make-over for the clubhouse.
Today, Indian Waters with its desirable location and numerous amenities, is one of the best and most affordable, five star, state-of-the-art RV resorts in the Palm Springs/Coachella Valley area. With 274 full service sites, Indian Waters RV Resort offers two distinct landscaping themes for its concrete level sites: grass and desert landscape. The typical RV site is approximately 35 feet wide and 60 feet deep with two concrete pads, one for your RV and one for your toad/tow vehicle.
Located at the cross roads of I-75 and I-10, Lake City is a 24-acre RV park with 67 pull-through sites. A pleasant campground with most sites under the live oak and Spanish moss, Lake City is big-rig friendly with sites in the 75-foot range and utilities centrally located. Amenities include complimentary cable TV and Wi-Fi, 24-hour laundry facility, large clubhouse with commercial kitchen, and dog run. Due to low hanging limbs and the draping Spanish moss not all sites are suitable for high profile rigs.
Choose from nearly 500 RV sites with full hookups and paved pads at Gulf State Park, with options to set up lakefront or in the woods. It’s ideal for hikers who can access the 25-mile Hugh Branyon Backcountry Trail at several points throughout the campground where park naturalists are available to offer guided nature walks. (If you’re a hiking enthusiast or new to hiking, here are some of the best hiking trails to check out.)
Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort features citrus trees throughout the park and offers pull-through RV Sites with full 30/50-amp hookups, grassy luxury sites, and new RV sites with a patio and fireplace. Whether you want to relax by one of the two pools, soak in the hot tubs, play a round on the nine-hole putting green, or join in the activities, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.
Two solar shade structures allow guests to camp under a patented structure that produces solar energy. The structures shade more than two acres of the campground giving visitors room to park RVs on 30 covered sites.
Lazydays, a full-service RV dealership with a service department is located next door. Other campground amenities include a bar and grill, meeting rooms, fitness center, three off-leash dog parks, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Recently expanded, A+ Motel and RV Park offers 134 all-concrete RV sites and 35 motel rooms. Amenities include 30 and 50 amp dual hookups, cable and Wi-Fi, water and sewer, stocked fishing pond with fountain, family swimming pool, adult swimming pool with self serve bar, 2 laundry facilities, ½-mile walking area, and dog run area.
A+ is centrally located near Calcasieu “Big” Lake and other fishing destinations, Creole Nature Trail All American Road, the Boudin Trail, and Lake Charles. The park is located 2 miles south of I-10 (Exit 21).
8. Hollywood Casino RV Park, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
Hollywood Casino RV Park offers tranquil beauty of the outdoors with waterfront views and on-site shuttle service to the casino with three restaurants. The park is big-rig friendly featuring 80 back-in sites and 14 back-to-back pull-through sites.
Our site backs to a treed area on a bayou and is in the 55-60 foot range with 50/30-amp electric service, water, sewer, and cable TV. All interior roads and sites are concrete. Site amenities include metal picnic table and BBQ grill on concrete slab and garbage canister.
Wake up to sunshine, sea breezes, natural beauty, and a panoramic view of the Corpus Christi Bayfront at Sea Breeze RV Community/Resort. Sea Breeze RV is a clean and quiet resort that features 50/30-amp electric service, water, and sewer. Interior roads and sites are gravel. Phone service is available. There are bay view sites and a private lighted fishing pier. The pool is heated and complete with a waterfall and a beautiful view of the Corpus Christi skyline.
There is a large laundry room with exercise equipment, TV Lounge, bathrooms, and showers. A large fully equipped clubhouse is used for planned seasonal activities. Wi-Fi is available. From our long 75-foot pull-through site we enjoyed a panoramic view of Corpus Christi Bay with the causeway and city skyline and amazing sunrise and sunset!
The resort is RV sites in one area and park models in another. The RV resort is well laid out and well maintained. The sites are spacious with long concrete pads and patio with crushed gravel to park your toad. The amenities are great! Four pools, a fitness center, baseball field, and many tennis and pickle ball courts.
Worth Pondering…
Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort.
If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in February
When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.
—Helen Keller
As you step into a new month, consider what doors have opened and closed in your life and reflect (without judgment) on the ways in which those changes have affected you. Being mindful in this manner can help you take ownership of your day-to-day narrative, allowing you to write the story you want to tell.
Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in January. Also check out my recommendations from February 2024 and March 2024.
The Rio Grande, which marks the border between Texas and Mexico is a core feature of the Big Bend Country landscape. With 196 miles of free-flowing Wild and Scenic River, the Rio Grande makes for a relaxing multi-day paddling trip. Hop into a canoe or kayak and follow the river as it winds through limestone canyons with walls up to 1,500 feet high.
For a beginner-friendly journey, try the Boquillas Canyon float. Starting from the Rio Grande Village put-in, this stretch covers 33 river miles with up to Class II rapids. Most paddlers complete the trip in two to four days depending on flows and headwinds. If you only have time for a day trip, paddle upstream from the Santa Elena Trailhead into the canyon then float back. When you need to cool off, eddy out and take a dip in a swimming hole along the river or in the quiet waters of Terlingua Creek which flows into the Rio Grande near the same trailhead.
Saguaro National Park on Tucson‘s outskirts attracts visitors with its iconic enormous cactus and spectacular desert landscape. With entry prices ranging from $15 to $25 it’s an affordable alternative to Arizona’s most popular national park, the Grand Canyon. Far from the crowds of the Grand Canyon and although it is one of Arizona’s most underrated and overlooked national parks, it is well worth visiting for anyone seeking serenity and adventure.
Saguaro has two districts each offering an array of scenic drives, hiking trails, and chances to see a wide variety of species in the stunning Sonoran Desert. Saguaro National Park has something to offer everyone whether one wants to enjoy lush mountain scenery or the iconic sight of cacti dotting the desert landscape.
Now is the perfect time to explore the breathtaking beauty of Picacho Peak State Park. Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert just off of I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson, this iconic park offers expansive desert views, great winter and spring weather, and countless opportunities to connect with nature.
Whether you’re an avid hiker seeking adrenaline and a challenge or prefer a more laid back outdoor experience, Picacho Peak has something for everyone. The trails here range from beginner-friendly paths to steep climbs that reward experienced hikers with panoramic views of the desert’s rugged beauty.
The spacious campground makes it easy to extend your adventure and experience all that Picacho Peak has to offer. Winter and spring provide ideal conditions for birding enthusiasts with a variety of species to spot among the saguaros and palo verde trees. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls the park home. Grey foxes, javelina, and desert mule deer are just a few of the fascinating animals you might encounter during your visit.
The Bryce Canyon Winter Festival has something for everyone. There will be free clinics, demos, and tours. Events may be subject to change due to snow and weather conditions but the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival will be held regardless of snow conditions. The 2025 Festival will be held on February 15, 16, and 17.
Activities will include cross country ski tours, snowshoe tours, crafts for kids, cookie decorating, photography clinics, watercolor painting, snowshoe/walk tours, wildlife tracking, and making leather journals.
Las Cruces is located in the southern region of New Mexico, just 41 miles north of the Mexico/US border. With more than 110,000 residents, Las Cruces is New Mexico’s third most populated city. With this many people, Las Cruces provides a diverse variety of services and activities in one place. You’ll find the Farmers and Crafts Market of Las Cruces, shopping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and bird watching.
Visit nearby Hatch, the Chile Capital of the World where farmers grow some of the best peppers on Earth.
Explore historic Mesilla, 5 minutes south of Las Cruces. Mesilla was once the capital of the Confederate Territory of Arizona during the Civil War. Today, you’ll find historic buildings and museums as well as unique shopping and delectable restaurants.
This 120-acre preserve comes equipped with nine cottages and more than fifty campsites providing guests with an opportunity to marvel at the constellations in the dead of night—but in terms of daytime activities, it’s tough to beat a guided kayak tour. Led by a local ranger, this idyllic activity provides an opportunity for visitors to spot fascinating fauna like the black bear, barred owl, and American alligator with more than 10,000 of the latter residing within park limits.
Florida’s Space Coast which includes Cape Canaveral and Titusville among other towns sits right along the Atlantic Flyway and is a haven for winter birding with roughly 40 great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail sites to explore.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge here support more threatened and endangered species than any other refuges in the continental US and are home to such species as bald eagles, wood storks, warblers, songbirds, roseate spoonbills, and so much more.
To date, 358 bird species have been identified at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge where the 7-mile-long, self-drive Black Point Wildlife Drive makes it easy to journey deep into the refuge. Stop and get out of your car at lookout points along the way to see birds, alligators, and other wildlife, or wander along one of six hiking trails popular with winter birders.
Alabama is not known for many high tourism areas but the 60 miles of Gulf Coast is probably the most popular in the state. Although there are a few towns that occupy this small piece of coast, the entire stretch is often commonly referred to as Gulf Shores.
Visitors come to Gulf Shores for a lot of reasons from lying on the white sand beaches to adrenaline pumping adventure sports from historic forts and naval vessels to a coastal wildlife reserve. But only in the know travelers visit for good eating. Gulf Shores is the best place in the world to eat Royal Red Shrimp and they are certainly a bucket list item!
Royal Red shrimp are a rare deep water shrimp that are typically found 40 to 60 miles offshore. The waters off of Alabama are known to be the sweet spot for the delicious delicacy.
Royal Reds are large, and as the name suggests, a deep crimson color. They are known for their exceptional tenderness and their rich, salty-sweet flavor.
The legacy and history of San Antonio began with a simple ceremony when, in 1718, Franciscans and Spanish representatives established the first mission. Within 13 years, five were located along the San Antonio River. The mission’s purpose was to acculturate and Christianize the native population and make them Spanish citizens. Today, visitors can retrace the footsteps of the mission Indians and friars. And, possibly, meet descendants of those first inhabitants.
Four Spanish frontier missions part of a colonization system that stretched across the Spanish Southwest in the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries are preserved here. They include Missions San José, San Juan, Espada, and Concepción. The park containing many cultural sites and natural areas was established in 1978.
Gulf State Park is a wonderful destination for experiencing nature and enjoying the beach. You can engage in a wide range of activities such as saltwater fishing, sunbathing on the beach, hiking and biking on the fantastic trails, and learning about the environment at the nature center. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or education, this state park has something for everyone.
This park is perfect for anglers as it offers various fishing options. You can enjoy saltwater fishing off the pier or freshwater fishing from Lake Shelby. The park has several fish species including bass, bream, catfish, croaker, king mackerel, speckled trout, and redfish. Fishing is an excellent activity for those who want to experience the park’s natural beauty, view the wildlife, and even catch dinner.
This state park has more than 29 miles of paved trails and boardwalks. These trails exhibit the park’s several unique ecosystems. The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail system connects Orange Beach and Gulf Shores and several trails are part of this system.
Worth Pondering…
May the joy of today, bring forth happiness for tomorrow—and may the cold Alberta air stay up north!
Located in the southeast corner of Georgia, the Okefenokee Swamp spans around 700 square miles and is the largest swamp in North America. The swamp includes a wide range of habitats including wet and dry prairies, cypress swamps, winding waterways, and forested uplands.
Folkston is located in the heart of beautiful Southeast Georgia, 7 miles east of the main entrance of Okefenokee Swamp Wildlife Refuge. Folkston is filled with Southern hospitality and charm. From the historic downtown district to the swamp lands of the Okefenokee, there is something for everyone.
The city sits on the eastern edge of the Okefenokee Swamp, the land of the trembling earth, one of Georgia’s natural wonders. Folkston is home to one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. The swamp is teeming with wildlife and flora you won’t find anywhere else. Carnivorous pitcher plants, alligators, and a seemingly endless variety of birds make Folkston the perfect place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Once I began to research, I decided that Laura S. Walker and Stephen C. Foster State Parks need to be visited in conjunction with the Okefenokee Swamp, as one of its entrances is also in Folkston.
Folkston, in southeast Georgia, is the perfect place to unwind. From the history, culture, and ecology of the Okefenokee Swamp to the historic Downtown and the relaxing Southern hospitality of a bed & breakfast and RV park. Railroad enthusiasts love the frequent trains that pass through town. Folkston’s hidden treasures are many. It was here we set up camp at the aptly-named Okefenokee RV Park.
The City of Folkston was created simply because the Savannah, Florida, and Western Railroad needed a station there. At that time, the city was known as the station. The first train passed through in 1881.
Most of the early settlers came from nearby Center Village. These settlers built homes and stores near the platform that was used for railroad passengers. Once the city began to grow, a city name other than the station was definitely needed. Thus, the settlement was named for Dr. William B. Folks of Waycross, Georgia. It was officially incorporated as a city on April 3, 1895 even though the first school was built one decade earlier in 1885.
In 1901, Folkston replaced Traders Hill as the county seat of Charlton County. Folkston soon became the commercial center of the county. The Old Train Depot has been restored and houses the Okefenokee Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority of the City of Folkston and Charlton County. Residents and visitors alike cherish this historic landmark. Along with the train depot, the Folkston Funnel Train Platform brings many visitors train watch.
Aside from the many historic landmarks and the Folkston Funnel Platform, the Okefenokee Swamp attracts thousands of visitors each year.
But Laura S. Walker State Park was the initial reason for driving our RV 20 miles east of Kingsland on I-95 to Folkston where we camped at Okefenokee RV Park.
Laura S. Walker seemed quite small when we first arrived compared to the other parks I’ve been to recently but that’s just because I didn’t realize how spread out it was.
The initial entrance gives you two options, going straight into the RV parking and their group summer camp rental or left to the picnic areas, big group shelters, and amenities.
Something this state park offers that none of the others I’ve visited is a dog park. It was fairly large too with a couple benches and a splattering of trees.
Two sand volleyball courts were also in the main section of the park as well as a large playground right on the edge of the lake and exercise equipment for a full body workout.
Heading over to where the boat ramp disappears in the water there is a gazebo with a fan.
I was very excited by this and after I explored everywhere went back to it so I could enjoy sitting under it for a while. It gave me the chance to enjoy the fresh air while both having a constant breeze, albeit warm, and not having the sun blasting down on me.
As I sat and ate a snack, I could hear the laughter of the families playing in the park’s small sand beach. It’s even roped off to keep people from swimming out too far and to keep the boats from coming in too close. A disclaimer though, there are no lifeguards at this swimming spot so please make sure you are safe if you choose to swim here.
If swimming doesn’t interest you, there are two main trails at Laura S. Walker State Park, the Lake Trail and the Big Creek Nature Trail with a couple small connecting trails.
Though I didn’t make it this far on the Lake Trail (because I primarily walked the other one and then ran out of time) there is a boardwalk that passes by an egret rookery with a wildlife observation platform. That is something I would like to come back and see and photograph.
Critters and plants that can be found on the trails at Laura S. Walker State Park are snakes, alligators, pitcher plants, gopher tortoise, otters, saw palmettos, and a variety of pine and oak.
The main thing I found unique about this state park is there is one primary entrance but if you know where to go there are other parking lots around the back of the lake with a separate boat ramp, entrance to the lake trail, and more group shelters for parties.
I discovered these hidden gems on the way to take a peek at The Lakes Golf Course at Laura S. Walker State Park.
This 18-hole course features three different lakes and accommodates both junior and adult players.
Using Okefenokee RV Park in Folkston as our home base we continued our exploration of Okefenokee with a day trip to Suwannee River Visitor Center at Fargo and Stephen C. Foster State Park (West Entrance), a distance of 160 miles return. Both entrances to Okefenokee are located within the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.
Stephen C. Foster State Park is located on Jones Island, 18 miles northeast of Fargo on State Highway 177. The Suwannee River which flows past this park is the main outlet of Okefenokee Swamp. Stephen Foster, who wrote the song Way Down Upon The Suwannee River is the namesake for this preserve.
This is the only entry point to Okefenokee Swamp with overnight RV accommodations. The campground at Stephen Foster State Park offers 64 campsites with water, electrical, and cable TV hookups. Amenities include rest rooms with hot showers, laundry facilities, fire rings, picnic tables, and a small store.
There are numerous sites suitable for large rigs; however, extreme care is required when navigating the interior roads. The park offers nine overnight cabins for your non-RVing friends as well as a marina with rental boats and a trading post that supplies fishing and picnic paraphernalia.
A half-mile wheelchair-accessible nature trail includes a boardwalk and a sampling of the trembling earth so characteristic of the Okenfenokee. A visitor’s center has interpretive exhibits. But the best way to see the swamp is by water. There are 25 miles of well-marked water trails within the swamp. A horsepower limit applies to water craft.
You can take a guided tour of the swamp or rent a powered johnboat to see Billy’s Island, once the site of the Okefenokee’s largest settlement during the cypress-logging era. It is estimated that more than 431 million board feet of timber was taken from the area between 1909 and 1927. The only remnants of the logging today are rusted and ruined equipment. But the swamp is still alive.
Also a popular fishing area, anglers try for jack fish, bream, and catfish.
A water trail also leads to Minnie’s Lake, another popular fishing area amid the towering cypress trees adorned with Spanish moss.
Make sure to stop by the Suwannee River Visitor Center where you can learn about the area wildlife. Located in Fargo, southwest of Stephen Foster State Park and backed by Spanish-moss draped trees, the Suwannee River Visitor Center overlooks a bend in the black-water river where people can fish and launch boats.
Inside, visitors learn that tannic acid produced by decaying vegetation is what gives the river its tea color and that unlike other reptiles, mother alligators actively care for their babies. Animal displays include a black bear, bobcat, fox squirrel, otter, snakes, fish, and numerous birds, including a wood stork.
A short film takes visitors on a leisurely trip through the river and swamp, highlighting flowers, insects, misty morning fog, and the many creatures that call the waters home. The center also includes exhibits on the timber industry, local history, and energy efficiency.
The Suwannee River Visitor Center is operated by Stephen C. Foster State Park.
Worth Pondering…
Way down upon the Swanee River, Far, far away That’s where my heart is turning ever That’s where the old folks stay All up and down the whole creation, Sadly I roam Still longing for the old plantation And for the old folks at home
