Cooler temperatures, fall foliage, pumpkin lattes, the first hints of snow flurries, and the upcoming holidays. What could be better than enjoying all the wonderful aspects of autumn while on the road in an RV? If you’ve ever wanted to see all those famous fall hotspots throughout the country, now is your chance to hit the open road and take it all in. From Maine to Colorado, we’ve got the top five autumn destinations for RV travelers.
- Skyline Drive – Few places in the country have the majestic beauty of Virginia’s Skyline Drive in the Shenandoah National Park. Enjoying the Blue Ridge Mountains at their seasonal peak is truly a treat, and camping in your RV is easy with three conveniently located campgrounds: Mathews Arm Campground at mile 22.1, Big Meadows Campground at mile 51.2 and Loft Mountain Campground at mile 79.5. Remember to adhere to the 35 mph speed limit along this scenic thoroughfare. You’ll be rewarded with glimpses of deer and other wildlife.
- San Juan Skyway – If you’re ready to head west, the San Juan Skyway in Colorado is a great way to explore the Centennial State. The route begins in Durango and winds its way through Ouray, Telluride and Cortez, allowing you see to see the most beautiful mountains and desertscape that the nation has to offer. RV campgrounds are conveniently located in Durango, Dolores, Gunnison, Montrose and plenty of other areas along the way. Don’t miss Red Rock Bluffs, Mesa Verde National Park and the cliff dwellings of the Pueblo Native Americans.
- Coconino National Forest – One of Arizona’s most beautiful areas and a gem for any RV traveler, this forest offers all the joys of autumn, complete with Ponderosa pines, as well as desert, canyons and lakes. Campgrounds can be found in Flagstaff and Sedona. Not to miss is the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive, General Crook Trail Loop and the Elden Pueblo Archeological site.
- Ozark Mountains – This huge mountain range spans areas of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Kansas and is known for having some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the country. The first peak foliage period beings on October 14th and the second on October 26th. RV enthusiasts should plan a foliage viewing tour in the Sylamore District of the Ozarks, as well as Glade Top Trail.
- Arcadia National Park – It’s no secret that Maine has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, but seeing this national gem in the height of autumn will truly be an experience to remember. The park is on Mount Desert Island and you’ll want to find an RV park in Bar Harbor, which is a site in and of itself with its array of bars, restaurants and shops. Take Route 3 right to the park and be sure to drive along Park Loop Road and check out Sieur de Monts Springs. To warm up from the brisk Maine breezes, stop at Jordan Pond House for a hot cup of tea or get your body temperature up with a hike on Flying Mountain.