Top 5 RV-Friendly National Parks to Visit
Published on Sep 25, 2024There's nothing quite like hitting the open road in your RV and exploring the natural wonders of America's national parks. Whether you're seeking rugged mountain peaks, serene lakes, or breathtaking forests, the U.S. has a wide variety of RV-friendly national parks waiting to be explored. To help you plan your next adventure, we've rounded up the Top 5 RV-Friendly National Parks that offer accessible campsites, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)
Why Visit:
Yellowstone is the crown jewel of America's national parks, known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal wonders like Old Faithful, and abundant wildlife. With its sprawling meadows, pristine lakes, and the towering Grand Tetons nearby, Yellowstone is a paradise for nature lovers and RVers alike.
RV-Friendly Details:
- Campsites: Yellowstone offers several campgrounds with RV accommodations, including the popular Fishing Bridge RV Park, which offers full hookups for RVs up to 40 feet.
- Things to Do: Explore geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. Don't miss a drive through Lamar Valley for a chance to spot bison, elk, and even grizzly bears.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September.
2. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
Why Visit:
Few places in the world can match the awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. The sheer size of the canyon, combined with the colorful layers of rock, make it a bucket-list destination. Plus, there's nothing quite like watching the sun set or rise over the canyon's edge.
RV-Friendly Details:
- Campsites: The Trailer Village RV Park on the South Rim offers full hookups and can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet in length. This is the only RV campground within the park with such amenities.
- Things to Do: Take in the views from the South Rim or explore the less-visited North Rim. Hiking, rafting, and mule rides are popular ways to experience the park.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November for fewer crowds and comfortable weather.
3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina)
Why Visit:
As America's most-visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains offer stunning vistas, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The mist-covered peaks and diverse wildlife make this park a must-see for RV travelers looking for beauty and adventure.
RV-Friendly Details:
- Campsites: The Cades Cove Campground and Elkmont Campground are two RV-friendly campgrounds that accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though they don't offer hookups. However, the park's scenic beauty more than makes up for the lack of hookups.
- Things to Do: Explore historic homesteads in Cades Cove, hike to the scenic Clingmans Dome, or take a leisurely drive along the Newfound Gap Road.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, but fall offers stunning foliage.
4. Zion National Park (Utah)
Why Visit:
Zion's towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and emerald pools offer an extraordinary backdrop for RVers looking to explore one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest. Zion is an adventure lover's paradise, with incredible hiking trails and breathtaking views.
RV-Friendly Details:
- Campsites: Watchman Campground near the park's south entrance is RV-friendly with electric hookups and can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet. Early reservations are a must as this campground fills up quickly.
- Things to Do: Don't miss hiking Angels Landing, one of the most thrilling hikes in the country, or strolling along the Narrows to cool off in the Virgin River.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October, but avoid peak summer months for fewer crowds and more pleasant temperatures.
5. Acadia National Park (Maine)
Why Visit:
For East Coast RVers, Acadia National Park offers the perfect blend of rugged coastline, forested mountains, and sparkling lakes. The park is a haven for those who enjoy hiking, biking, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
RV-Friendly Details:
- Campsites: Blackwoods Campground and Seawall Campground both accommodate RVs up to 35 feet but offer limited hookups, so be prepared for a more rustic camping experience.
- Things to Do: Hike or bike the Carriage Roads, take in the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, or enjoy a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road.
- Best Time to Visit: Late summer to early fall for cooler weather and vibrant fall colors.
Tips for RV Camping in National Parks:
- Make Reservations Early: National parks are incredibly popular, and campsites—especially RV-friendly ones—book up months in advance. Be sure to reserve your spot as soon as possible.
- Check RV Size Limits: Each park and campground has its own RV size limits, so always double-check that your RV fits within the park's requirements.
- Pack for All Weather: Weather can be unpredictable in many national parks, so it's a good idea to pack for both warm and cold conditions, no matter the season.
- Bring a Generator (if allowed): Not all national park campgrounds offer hookups, so a portable generator can be a lifesaver for keeping your RV powered during your stay.
Ready to Hit the Road?
With your RV prepped and these stunning national parks in mind, it's time to start planning your next adventure. At Bent's RV, we have a wide selection of RVs to suit every type of traveler, whether you're a solo adventurer or a family seeking outdoor fun.
Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast or just starting your RV journey, we're here to help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs. Visit one of our locations or check out our online inventory to find the RV that will take you on your next unforgettable adventure!
Visit Us:
Boutte, LA: (985) 214-2838
Albany, LA: (225) 877-2368
Let Bent's RV help you discover the freedom of the open road and the beauty of America's national parks!