Category: Travel

After you tie the knot, the next thing you’re looking forward to is a getaway with your new spouse. Instead of spending hours in an airport, waiting to get to your destination, hit the road on your own schedule. This wedding season, turn your honeymoon into an RV adventure with RV Trader’s seven best honeymoon road trip destinations.

1. Santa Barbara, California

For a West Coast adventure, travel down California’s beautiful coastline along the Pacific Coast Highway. This 600-mile highway offers mountain and beach views, from San Francisco to San Diego.

If you don’t want to complete the whole trip, make seaside Santa Barbara your honeymoon home base. Known as “The American Riviera,” Santa Barbara has everything you need for a romantic getaway, including fine wine and upscale meals overlooking the ocean. Santa Barbara is also less than an hour away from day-trip destinations, such as Solvang, a slice of Denmark in California, and Ojai, a charming city known for its spas and local art galleries.

2. Key West, Florida

Cruise across the “Highway that Goes to Sea” when you road trip to the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway crosses Florida’s mainland to Key Largo, Key West, and other islands. As you travel along the many bridges connecting the keys, take in the picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and Gulf of Mexico from the large windshield and windows of your Class A motorhome.

Spend your honeymoon at the southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West. Key West has no shortage of luxurious resorts, if you want a break from your RV. You can also go snorkeling with your new spouse and take in the world-famous sunset from Mallory Square.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

The Great River Road is a scenic and historic route that spans 3,000 miles, from Minnesota to the tip of southern Louisiana. The green pilot’s wheel road signs will guide you across 10 states, as you make pit stops in state parks, riverside communities, and lively cities.

One of the most popular destinations on the Great River Road is The Big Easy, New Orleans. Opportunities for romance are around every corner in historic New Orleans, from the restaurants dishing out Creole and Cajun cuisine to horse-drawn carriage rides and evening strolls through the French Quarter. Let the live music on Frenchmen Street be the soundtrack to your honeymoon.

4. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Ranked on Cosmopolitan’s “The 13 Best Places to go on your Honeymoon in the Good Ol’ USA,” Santa Fe is an excellent getaway for couples. This southwestern city has a number of spas with tranquil treatments for two, complemented by pleasant panoramas. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and red-hued scenery from a local vineyard, Native American historic site, or open-air Spanish market.

Santa Fe is located near several scenic roads, including The High Road to Taos, Turquoise Trail, and Route 66. Of course, Route 66 is one of the most-popular scenic highways in the country. If you don’t do the full tour from Chicago to Los Angeles, you can still experience Puebloan culture, prairie vistas, and mountain ranges around Santa Fe.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” running 469 miles from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Along the Parkway are plenty of opportunities to take a break from the road and go for a hike or enjoy the panoramic views on a scenic overlook.

Asheville is a cozy mountain getaway at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Toast to your happily ever after at one of Asheville’s downtown breweries, many within walking distance so you can leave your motorhome or tow vehicle at the campground. Asheville is also a great honeymoon destination for thrill-seeking couples interested in mountain biking, ziplining, and hiking to waterfalls.

6. Newport, Rhode Island

Planning a honeymoon to the northeast? Set your sights on Rhode Island’s coastline. Savor succulent seafood at a romantic restaurant or a classic New England lobster shack when you travel to the City by the Sea. Spend a night away from your travel trailer and book a stay at The Chanler at Cliff Walk, named one of America’s Most Romantic Hotels by Condé Nast Traveler.

While in Newport, make your way down Ocean Drive, a 10-mile tour of the coast. Along the way, view some of Newport’s Gilded age mansions, explore a local state park, or spend some time at Gooseberry Beach.

7. Willamette Valley, Oregon

Oregon’s Willamette Valley is a destination for newlyweds who love to wine and dine. Wash down your farm-to-table meal with a vintage from a nearby vineyard. Finish every meal with a homemade chocolate from a chocolatier located within the valley. Before you indulge, satisfy your appetite for adventure by hiking, biking, or kayaking.

Willamette Valley encompasses Albany, Corvallis, Eugene, Mt. Hood, Salem, Newberg, McMinnville, and West Cascades. Navigate around the valley via the McKenzie River Scenic Byway, Over the Rivers & Through the Woods Scenic Byway, and Marys Peak to Pacific Scenic Byway. These courses will guide you along rushing rivers, fragrant fir forests, and the Cascade Mountains.

An RV adventure is a fun way to celebrate your nuptials and kick off a long and happy life with your loved one. As they say, “getting there is half the fun,” and these honeymoon road trip destinations offer plenty of opportunities for romance, relaxation, and excitement.

When you’re ready to start planning your honeymoon road trip, head to RV Trader’s Summer Destinations Resource Page for more summer travel locations to help you find your perfect getaway. And, if you’re searching for a honeymoon-ready rig, browse the nationwide inventory of new and used RVs for sale on RVTrader.com.

What type of vacation do you enjoy? Do you love learning about the nation’s past through historical attractions? Or do you prefer to spend your days at an amusement park? These experiences and more can be found in Williamsburg, Virginia. In this RV Trader Travel Spotlight, we’ll go over everything you need to know about visiting Williamsburg.

Williamsburg, Virginia History

Williamsburg’s history dates back centuries, when the city was founded as the capital of the Virginia Colony in 1699. During this time, Williamsburg became one of America’s first planned cities. Conversations about politics, religion, the economy, and other societal matters filled the streets, with residents and visitors such as Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, and George Washington.

Things to Do in Williamsburg

While the Revolutionary happenings in Williamsburg are integral to America’s history, today’s city is known as a family-friendly destination with something for every type of vacationer to see and do.

Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg transports you and your family back in time to America’s beginnings. Listen as our nation’s leaders discuss ideas of independence and a revolution and speak with the historical interpreters dressed in colonial garb. Watch as blacksmiths forge recreated weapons to supply the armies during the Revolutionary War. Hear the Fifes and Drums march down Duke of Gloucester Street, and have a bite to eat at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern which was George Washington’s favorite place for seafood.

Colonial Williamsburg is the largest outdoor living museum in the country. This award-winning historical attraction offers a hands-on approach to American history through guided and self-guided tours, costumed interpreters, art exhibits, and so much more.

Parking is available throughout Colonial Williamsburg’s historic area. There are also shuttles that conveniently depart from the Colonial Williamsburg Visitors Center, with ample parking for RVs. If you decide to drive your camper around the historic area, pay attention to road signs. Not all of Colonial Williamsburg’s paved roadways are accessible by vehicle.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers both adrenaline-pumping thrills and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a kid or kid at heart, Busch Gardens has rides, events, and entertainment through all four seasons.

Face hair-raising twists and stomach-turning drops on one of the many rides and roller coasters. Sing and dance to live entertainment performed within the park. Little ones will love seeing their favorite characters in the Sesame Street® Forest of Fun™.

Whenever you’re in town, be sure to check the events calendar to see what’s happening at Busch Gardens. Annual events include Summer Nights, Howl-O-Scream, and the award-winning Busch Gardens Christmas Town.

Busch Gardens has several parking lots, but the England lot is designated for oversized vehicles, such as RVs.

Visiting Williamsburg over the summer? Cool off at nearby Water Country USA, Virginia’s largest family water park. Make a splash on a water slide or simply unwind as you float along the lazy river.

Explore a Local Park

Amusement parks aren’t the only parks in Williamsburg. Hike, bike, and kayak your way around Williamsburg by visiting one of the many scenic parks. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Chickahominy Riverfront Park
• Freedom Park
• Jamestown Beach Event Park
• Powhatan Creek Park
• Waller Mill Park

You can also explore more of Williamsburg’s natural surroundings without leaving the comfort of your Class A motorhome. The Colonial Parkway, part of the Colonial National Historical Park, is 23 miles connecting Williamsburg to neighboring Jamestown and Yorktown. Pull off the parkway, adjacent to the York and James Rivers, for biking, fishing, and sightseeing along this National Scenic Byway.

If you’re really looking to take a break from being on the road, walk or bike the Virginia Capital Trail, extending from Jamestown and Williamsburg to Richmond. This 52-mile trail travels along the scenic Route 5 corridor and features many historic sites, with opportunities to hop off and traverse other local attractions.

Go Shopping

In addition to history, Williamsburg is also known for its array of shopping options. From locally owned shops and bakeries in Merchants Square to the more than 100 brand-name stores at the Williamsburg Premium Outlets, you’ll be able to indulge in some retail therapy. Just make sure you have room in your camper for all of your new purchases.

Best Time to Visit Williamsburg

Williamsburg has plenty to do year-round, so there’s never a bad time of year to visit. Spring and fall are the most ideal because temperatures are more moderate and crowds are lighter. Cruising down the Colonial Parkway in springs offers the sights of flowers in bloom, while fall boasts picture-worthy foliage.

However, Williamsburg has a relatively mild climate, so don’t be afraid to visit during the winter, when the city glows with holiday lights. Summer generally has the largest crowds, with vacationers flocking from around the country to visit the historic city.

Where to Camp and Park Your RV in Williamsburg

Need a place to park your motorhome or unhitch your travel trailer while you explore Williamsburg? There are full hookup campgrounds for you to make your homebase when you visit, such as American Heritage RV Park and Williamsburg KOA. Anvil Campground even offers shuttle service to and from local attractions, so you can leave your tow vehicle behind.

Chickahominy Riverfront Park also has RV camping if you’d like to stay closer to nature. Reservations are recommended for this campsite, situated along the Chickahominy and James Rivers.

What’s Near Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, along with nearby Jamestown and Yorktown, make up the Historic Triangle—the birthplace of American Democracy. Much like Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown offer something for every type of traveler.

Dive into more of America’s history at Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, Yorktown Battlefield, and the American Revolution at Yorktown. Take a waterfront stroll along Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing, which is home to a weekly farmer’s market, live music, and other local events. 

If you decide to spend more than a day in Yorktown or Jamestown, you’ll find plenty of RV parks and campgrounds in the area, as well as nearby Newport News. You can also take the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry south to Surry County and tour even more of Virginia.

While Williamsburg, Virginia is a favorite for history buffs, the Greater Williamsburg area is garnering a national reputation for all of its attractions and activities. No matter what you do, an RV vacation to Williamsburg is sure to be one for the history books.

Have you taken your RV to Williamsburg, Virginia? Share any tips you have in the comments section below. And, if you’re looking for a camper for your next road trip, browse the nationwide inventory of new and used RVs for sale on RVTrader.com.

Updated for Summer 2023

Warm air, a light breeze, the sound of the water breaking on the shore. There’s so much to love about setting up camp by the water with your RV. And if you are looking to buy a boat, the RV season and boat season go hand-in-hand. Many RV parks around the country offer both camping spots and boat slips that promise an exciting time along the water. Here are RV Trader’s 12 best RV campgrounds for boating lovers.

1. Perdido Key RV Resort – Pensacola, Florida

Located on a Gulf Coast barrier island next to Pensacola, Perdido Key RV Resort is a sunny and warm destination worth visiting year-round. Camping comes with full hook-ups, while the marina has launches so you can get your boat out on the water for fishing or cruising. While you’re there, you can indulge in local cuisine, relax on the beach, go for a swim, and partake in activities with your pet.

2. Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina – Abingdon, Maryland

Not far from Baltimore and nearby attractions, Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina is a pleasant getaway for RVers and boaters. Here, you’ll get camping spots shaded under the trees and along the Bush River, which is great for fishing, potting for crabs, and bird spotting. With full hookups, boat slips, and shops for supplies, this park makes it easy to relax with your vehicle, whether you’re under the trees or on the water.

3. Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina – Newport Beach, California

Southern California’s Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina is considered a vacation getaway for RVers and boaters. Ideal for a luxury RV, the resort is situated right along Newport Bay and the Pacific Ocean, so you can set up camp with full hookups and take in the view. Take your boat out at the marina, and cruise on the ocean to nearby destinations. Check out restaurants and shops, go for a swim, have fun in the waterpark, join for whale watching, or rent an RV or boat for your stay.

4. Alamo Lake State Park – Wenden, Arizona

The rolling mountains meet the clear blue waters at Alamo Lake State Park in Arizona, with cacti, wildflowers, and wildlife all around. You’ll get panoramic views of the desert terrain when you set up camp and boat out on the lake. Easy to set up camp with hookups for RVs or travel trailers, the park has bass fishing, swimming, and riding trails to keep you busy.

5. Branson Lakeside RV Park – Branson, Missouri

Quiet and calm, or fun and lively, there are a lot of activities to choose from when camping with your RV at Branson Lakeside RV Park. With accessible campgrounds with hookups and pull-through sites for RVs up to 90 feet in length, you’ll get views of Lake Taneycomo, which has bass and trout fishing for boaters. You can also check out Branson Landing’s shops, restaurants, river walk, and explore the historic town of Branson.

6. Caddo Lake State Park – Karnack, Texas

Secluded and serene, Caddo Lake State Park in east Texas is an enchanting destination full of forests, swamplands, and cypress trees with Spanish moss. There are full hookups for RV camping and a boat ramp for outings on the water—just make sure to keep an eye out for alligators during your visit! Hike the park, canoe or kayak, cast a reel on the fishing pier, and try to catch one of the 70 species of fish found here.

7. Camp Hatteras RV Resort & Campground – Rodanthe, North Carolina

For coastal camping, Camp Hatteras RV Resort & Campground has a bit of everything. Located alongside the Outer Bank’s beaches, between the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound, RVs get full hookups for camping, plus, there’s a chance to meet up with the community during an RV rally held at the onsite conference center. The nearby marina offers rentals for pontoons and personal watercraft, while there are sports and recreation venues, catering and local food, and a pet-friendly dog park and agility course.

8. Mile Creek Park – Pickens, South Carolina

Mile Creek Park is full of surprises, with activities both on land and the water. Camping is easy with complete hookups for RVs. There’s also a boat ramp for adventuring out on Lake Keowee, or you can rent kayaks and go out for a paddle. During your visit, enjoy hiking along the shore; fishing for trout, bass and bluegill; and birdwatching.

9. Frontenac State Park Campground – Frontenac, Minnesota

Up north, the Frontenac State Park Campground is a scenic location with camping, boating, hiking, and even horseback riding. The area has drive-in sites for camping, many of which come with hookups. Spend time out on the water on Lake Pepin, or the mighty Mississippi. This is a great location for outdoor activities, whether you’re hiking through a prairie or the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest.

10. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park – Jamestown, Kentucky

Claimed to be the “Houseboat Capital of the World,” Lake Cumberland State Resort Park invites boaters and RVers for camping and recreation on the water. Campsites come with hook-ups, while their marina has 100 boat slips, with rentals for fishing boats, pontoon boats, ski boats, and houseboats. Enjoy your stay with hiking on nature trails, birding, fishing trout on Wolfe Stream, swimming, restaurant dining, and recreational sports like disc golf and mini golf.

11. Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort – Mt. Shasta City, California

Snowcapped Mt. Shasta overlooks Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort at this Northern California retreat replete with camping for RVs, boat rentals, dining options, and a splash park. Full hookups are available for RVs, but you can also rent a retro trailer if you feel like camping out just like the old times. Use the marina to take your boat out on the water, or, rent a boat during your stay so you can go cruising or fishing on Lake Siskiyou.

12. Stillwater Campground – Arapaho National Recreation Area, Colorado

Open May to October, Stillwater Campground is big on scenery, with waterside views of Lake Granby and the rolling Rocky Mountains. This large campground in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forest has RV camping, some with hookups, and launches for boating. You can also go for a swim, fish, hike, and horseback ride.

These campgrounds have the best of both worlds for RV and boating lovers. And while there are more parks out there to check out, these are definitely a dozen to get you started when you set out on your next adventure. If you’re ready to purchase a used RV or your next new vehicle, be sure to see the nation’s largest inventory on RVTrader.com! 

Updated for 2023

As the sunshine melts away the winter snow, you know it’s time to start planning your next RV vacation. For many people, spring’s warmer weather marks the start of their camping season. Whether you’re traveling with college buddies or your grandkids, spring break can be an excellent time to hit the road before the summer crowds flock to RV parks and campgrounds. 

Ready to plan your spring getaway? RV Trader has put together a list of six of the best RV destinations around the country for spring break.

1. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Unhitch your travel trailer and sprawl out on the 60 miles of scenic coastline when you arrive in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The weather along the Grand Strand is typically warm enough for lounging with a book or making sand castles. Stroll the oceanfront boardwalk then get a bird’s-eye view of the beach from the SkyWheel.

Away from the beach, attractions and entertainment abound, from themed shows and live performances to outlet shopping and fascinating museums.

About 20 minutes away from Myrtle Beach is Murrells Inlet, known as the seafood capital of South Carolina. Explore this historic fishing village and grab a bite to eat that’s fresh from the docks.

2. St. Augustine, Florida

Venture down to St. Augustine, Florida to enjoy the coastal relaxation that the Sunshine State offers without the rowdy spring break crowds. The beaches near St. Augustine are both secluded and unspoiled, perfect for days of playing in the surf and sand.

This historic city, founded in 1565, features beautiful Spanish architecture and landmarks like Ponce de Leon’s “Fountain of Youth.” Walk along quaint St. George Street, through the historic district, and explore the city’s local bistros, boutiques, museums, and gift shops.

One of the area’s most unique attractions allows you to zipline across live alligators and crocodiles. That will certainly make a great story to tell your family and friends back home.

3. Galveston, Texas

Cruise in your camper across the bay to the Gulf Coast of Texas. The island of Galveston boasts 32 miles of sandy shoreline that are the perfect retreat for relaxing under an umbrella or making a splash in the waves. From there, take a walk on the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, filled with rides, midway games and food.

Bird watchers can observe the spring migration of thousands of neotropical birds making their way north from South and Central America. Spring also signifies the start of crawfish season on the Gulf Coast. These bright red crustaceans are typically served boiled alongside corn and potatoes.

4. Big Sur, California

Breathtaking views and golden beaches sum up the Big Sur experience. Nestled between Carmel and San Simeon, take in views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged Santa Lucia Mountains as you travel California’s Highway 1 in your camper. Stand beneath the towering redwoods at Andrew Molera State Park one day, then view the sea lions relaxing on rocks at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve the next.

You could spend most of your spring break driving through Big Sur, stopping at scenic overlooks such as McWay Falls, Notleys Landing, and Bixby Bridge. Along the 90-mile stretch that makes up Big Sur, you’re sure to enjoy a meal with a view. Many restaurants boast ocean views and are situated on the area’s coastal cliffs.

5. Lewes, Delaware

The charming streets of Lewes, Delaware are perfect for travelers seeking a low-key destination with plenty to do. Lewes is best known for Cape Henlopen State Park, situated where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Delaware Bay. Along with waterfront views and uncrowded beaches, Cape Henlopen is also home to the Fort Miles Historic Area and a standing WWII Observation Tower that visitors can climb.

Take a day trip to nearby Cape May, New Jersey, which is just a ferry ride away, to explore the shops, restaurants, and seaside Victorian homes. The Cape May-Lewes Ferry can transport RVs as large as a Class A motorhome across the bay.

6. Branson, Missouri

While Branson, Missouri is inland, this Ozark town features three lakes with plenty of RV parks and campsites nearby. Branson is best known for family-friendly entertainment. Attend live shows with toe-tapping song and dance, hilarious comedy, awe-worthy acrobatics, and more.

Branson also offers plenty to see and do outdoors. Spend a day on the water at one of the town’s three lakes, hike through the Ozark Mountains, or fly through the treetops on a zipline tour.

Silver Dollar City, voted one of America’s Best Amusement Parks by USA Today 10Best Readers, opens for the season in mid-March. Guests of all ages will love the thrilling rides, attractions, and old-fashioned fun at this local amusement park.

Now you’re ready to choose a destination, pack your bags, load up your RV, and head out on your spring break getaway. Check out our previous article for more spring break travel tips.

And, if you’re looking for a new or used RV to travel with this spring, start shopping the nationwide online marketplace at RVTrader.com.

So, you’ve decided to take an RV road trip, but you don’t know where to go. Millions of visitors flock to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it one of the most-visited national parks in the country. With over 800 square miles, stretching from Tennessee to North Carolina, the park is best known for its stunning mountain ranges, wildlife, plant biodiversity, history, and more. In this RV Trader Travel Spotlight, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park History

Cruise through history in your camper when you visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Smoky Mountains are estimated to be between 200 and 300 million years old, with human history dating back to the prehistoric Paleo Indians. In fact, historic artifacts that are thousands of years old have been found within the park.

In the 1900s, the area became home to loggers who quickly began cutting down the mountain’s majestic and historic forests. Fortunately, in 1934, after President Calvin Coolidge signed a bill to establish Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the state of Tennessee and North Carolina transferred deeds for the federal government to take over this land. At that time, only 20% of the original forest remained uncut within park boundaries. 

In 1940, Great Smoky Mountains National Park was formally dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Throughout the park, you can see remnants of its history, from the towering, mature treetops to the log buildings left behind by the former residents. Great Smoky Mountains National Park showcases serene, natural vistas and the rich cultural tapestry of Southern Appalachian history

Things to Do at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Whether you prefer the thrill of hiking to a mountain peak or simply strolling along the forest floor as you view wildflowers, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has activities for every type of traveler. 

Auto Touring

RVing gives you a unique opportunity to tour the Smokies from your mobile living room. Great Smoky Mountains National Park features 348 miles of scenic roadways to travel across, and most are paved. Imagine gazing out the window of your Class C motorhome at the flowing mountain streams and dense hardwood forests. If you have a tow-behind unit, you can detach your trailer and take an auto tour from your passenger vehicle.

Travel trailers and RVs are prohibited on some secondary roads within the park. Informational booklets and guides are available online and at visitors centers to help you navigate these roads in your camper.

Hiking

Hiking is a year-round activity in the Smoky Mountains. Each season offers different landscapes and plant life to view. Do you want to hike to the highest summit? Or travel to a rushing waterfall? If you’re traveling with little ones, there are even kid-friendly hiking trails that are shorter and on paved ground. Here are some of the most popular hiking trails at Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

• Charlies Bunion – Hikers can travel east along the Appalachian Trail to a breathtaking stone outcrop known as Charlies Bunion. This hike is four miles one way with an elevation change of 1,600 feet.
• Alum Cave Bluffs – The Alum Cave Bluffs Trail is one of the most popular trails to get to Mount LeConte, the third-highest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This hike is 2.5 miles one way to Alum Cave Bluffs, then an additional 2.5 miles to the summit of Mount LeConte.
• Rainbow Falls – The first mile of this trail can be strenuous, but it’s all worth it to experience Rainbow Falls. This 2.7-mile one-way hike also passes along a log footbridge and seasonal wildflowers.

Biking

Biking is another great way to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cyclists have their pick of many roads within the park, but should be cautious of vehicle traffic and narrow roadways. Use your own bike or rent one from the campground store. We recommend the Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile one-way road that allows you to pedal past the park’s historic sites and even spot wildlife.

Fishing

Cast a line in one of the 2,900 miles of streams within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, filled with trout and smallmouth bass. These streams protect one of the last wild trout habitats in the eastern United States. Fishing is permitted year-round with a valid fishing license or permit from Tennessee or North Carolina.

Wildlife Viewing

Catch the area’s wildlife in action as you traverse Great Smoky Mountains National Park by RV or foot. Cades Cove and Cataloochee can offer unobstructed views of white-tailed deer, elk, black bears, turkeys, woodchucks, and more. Remember to remain a safe distance from these animals, and not disturb them in their natural habitat. Be sure to pack binoculars if you’d like to get a closer look at some of the wild animals that call the Smoky Mountains home.

Best Time to Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re traveling by RV, the summer and fall months are the best times to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. March to May and mid-September through November tend to offer more comfortable weather and fewer crowds.

Each spring, the park hosts a Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage with guided walks and hikes to explore the Smoky Mountain’s diversity of wildflowers. Summer boasts the highest temperatures and largest crowds, with July being the busiest month of the season. October is the peak season for leaf peeping. The autumn leaf season is over several weeks, as the vibrant colors reach mid and lower elevations between mid-October and early November. Most snowfall occurs between January and March, but this is also the best time of year to view the wildlife since there are no leaves on the trees.

With so much to see and do at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s tempting to spend weeks or longer experiencing the beauty and history of the area. If that’s not realistic for you, we recommend spending at least three or four full days at the park.

Where to Camp and Park Your RV at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers several different types of campsites, including frontcountry campgrounds with water and electrical hookups. There are nine developed frontcountry campgrounds for you to park your motorhome or unhitch your travel trailer while you visit the park. These campsites have size restrictions for trailers and motorhomes, so be sure to check the National Parks Service website before arriving. Reservations are available and are strongly recommended. Nearby in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Cherokee, there are RV parks and campgrounds that are great accommodations if you don’t want to stay within the park.

What’s Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

When you aren’t adventuring through the park, visit these destinations just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrances.

• Gatlinburg – Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers a blend of adventurous attractions and family fun. This mountain resort destination has everything from treetop ziplines and mountain coasters to family-friendly amusements, a local arts and crafts community, and more.
• Pigeon Forge – If you’re searching for entertainment and shopping, look no further than Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Home to Dolly Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, Pigeon Forge brings singers, dancers, musicians, and other performers to stages across the city.
• Cherokee – Across state lines, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has an entrance in Cherokee, North Carolina. Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, one of three recognized Cherokee tribes in the country. While it is a sovereign nation, visitors are invited to experience the area’s culture through arts and crafts shopping, native elk viewing, and historic attractions.

After learning about some of the thrilling activities and marvelous scenery within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s easy to understand why it’s a top-rated National Park year after year. So, pack your bags and hop in your RV because a wondrous adventure is waiting in the Smoky Mountains.

Have you taken your RV to Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Share any tips you have in our comments section below. If you’re looking for a new or used RV to buy or rent for a road trip, begin your search on the nationwide online marketplace at RVTrader.com.