RV travel is a rapidly growing lifestyle, with approximately 65 to 72 million Americans planning to hit the road in an RV they own, rent, or borrow. Whether you are looking for family fun, outdoor exploration, or a luxury escape, there is a destination and vehicle type to suit your needs.
Top Domestic Trip IdeasThe following locations have been highlighted as premier destinations for RV enthusiasts across the United States:
Coastal & Southern Escapes- Hilton Head, South Carolina: A top choice for a "luxury vacation" where travelers can enjoy upscale amenities while renting an RV.
- Florida RV Resorts: Popular for white sandy beaches and proximity to lagoons. Specific recommendations include Anastasia State Park and resorts near Palm Springs like Emerald Desert RV Resort.
- Southern Charm Tour: Experience the "down-home cooking" and music of the South by visiting destinations like Skidaway Island State Park in Georgia or Paris Mountain State Park in South Carolina.
- Flagstaff, Arizona: A favorite dog-friendly mountain town perfect for those traveling with pets.
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas: Regularly described as a "hiker's paradise" and a must-visit for active RVers.
- Capitol Reef National Park, Utah: Another scenic Western destination that is highly rated for dog-friendly road trips.
- National Icons: Many family-oriented trips focus on North American landmarks such as Mount Rushmore and various active geysers.
Europe offers a diverse array of landscapes and well-maintained facilities for those looking to take their RV adventure abroad.
Region | Key Highlights | Activities |
|---|---|---|
The Alps | Scenic passes in France, Switzerland, and Italy. | Hiking, cycling, and paragliding. |
Iberian Peninsula | Coastal drives in the Algarve (Portugal) and Costa Brava (Spain). | Cultural city tours and natural parks. |
Scandinavia | Norwegian fjords, Swedish forests, and Danish beaches. | Exploring winding roads and "wild camping". |
Eastern Europe | The Dalmatian coast of Croatia and Slovenian Julian Alps. | Visiting cascading lakes and historic cities. |
Matching your vehicle to your group size and destination is essential for a fun experience.
- For Families: Fifth Wheels offer spacious, multi-level living, while Class C Motorhomes are versatile mid-size options with over-cab bunks.
- For Solo Travelers or Couples: Class B Motorhomes (camper vans) are compact, easy to drive, and ideal for city camping or reaching remote fishing spots.
- For Extended Travel: Class A Motorhomes provide a luxurious, bus-like experience that is fully self-contained.
- For First-Timers: Travel Trailers are lightweight, towable options that are perfect for weekend getaways.
- Dog-Friendly Travel: Many RVers find the lifestyle to be a "fountain of youth" for older pets. Flagstaff, AZ, and Pechanga Resort are noted for being particularly welcoming to dogs.
- Hunting & Fishing Base Camps: RVs are increasingly used as "outdoor base camps" for hunting and fishing trips, especially specialized 4x4 camper vans that can handle rough terrain.
- Industry Events: Attending RV shows is a great way to find destination inspiration and the latest gear. Major upcoming shows include the Great American RV & Camper Super Show and regional showcases in Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Myrtle Beach.