Category: Travel

As full-time RVers, folks we meet often make assumptions about our lifestyle. Usually, the first assumption is that we are always driving. But realistically, if they knew how many miles do we drove annually, the answer would probably surprise them. Fact is: we’ve learned the fine art of saving RV mileage.

Astoundingly, the best way to save money on fuel for your RV is to simply drive less. So, just because you have an RV doesn’t mean that you have to visit all the iconic western national parks in one season. What it does mean is that you have an opportunity to do something that most people don’t: Really explore the place where you’re at. You can go deep in a state or region of North America that fascinates you. Or you could even start in your own backyard.

“A [person] on foot, on horseback or on a bicycle will see more, feel more, enjoy more in one mile than the motorized tourists can in a hundred miles.” – Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire

Becoming an informed traveler — rather than just a tourist — takes time. We learned to slow our pace down and start exploring. We wanted to experience our country, rather than just see it. Anyone can read about the geology, geography, and anthropology of an area. But until you experience it firsthand, you won’t truly appreciate the uniqueness of any given place.

 

Where to Start: America’s Best Backyards

Taking the time to explore an area by bicycle, on foot, or with kayaks will allow for even deeper exploration. Eschewing interstates to drive down backroads always enables you to see the real North America. Just select Avoid Highways on Google Maps and discover some amazing places to explore nearby without marathon driving days. Or, better yet, simply get lost. (Of course, you can always use your GPS to get you back on track.)

Sure: The immenseness of North America can be overwhelming. It’s a massive continent, so where do you begin? Start with what intrigues you, what you find fascinating. 

Below are a couple of maps that will help you fine tune some deep exploration as they divide the U.S. and Canada into “cultural” areas — as well as six of our favorite areas that we’ve explored.

 

 

Into the Eastern Sierras

We spent the better part of three months exploring California’s Eastern Sierra Mountains, and never got bored! With tens of thousands of acres of public land, hundreds of lakes and hiking trails, several hidden hot springs, and so much to explore, we simply weren’t ready to leave. But the hot summer weather encouraged us to head north and coastal.

 

 

Utah’s Five National Parks

Utah hosts a whopping five national parks: Arches, Bryce, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Zion. In addition to these gorgeous red rock parks, there are 6 national monuments (including one of the largest caches of dinosaur bones found in one place), 6 national historical trails and parks, and 1 massive national recreation area.  And, that’s just NPS land in the state of Utah.  Beyond these national public lands, the state is loaded with state parks, alpine peaks, lakes, and major rivers. You could spend most of your life here and never see it all. (And if you have kids, these parks will blow their mind.)

 

The Four Deserts of North America

Some RVers flock to the southwest in the wintertime.  We’ve spent several winter seasons deeply exploring the unique deserts of New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Nevada. Stay warmer and dive deep into the backroads and hidden gems of all four North American deserts – you’ll be delighted with some stunning sunsets, fascinating flora and fauna, and fun adventures!

 

 

Doing Alaska

Some Alaska-bound RVers have attempted to “do Alaska” in three to four weeks and then had the audacity to say, “We don’t really see the big deal.” We spent five months there. (Which still wasn’t enough to do it justice.) And in those months, we traveled into Canada as well — through British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Yukon Territory, and Alaska. The two of us experienced more than we ever thought possible, but only traveled 8,000 miles. We hiked remote national parks. We biked. And we kayaked in every major region, all while keeping up with our mobile business.  

 

 

Maine’s Vacationland

Maine, what can we say? You’re an old favorite that is always hard to leave! This part of the Northeast isn’t quite New England. As the map above suggests, it’s a region in and off itself with deep Acadian roots. Really, it feels like the South of the North. Many flock to the coast for lobster in the summer, but the central part of the state welcomes you with numerous lakes and rivers which spring from the snow runoff of the Appalachian Mountains. We’ve spent entire summers and autumns exploring this one state. (Always good for saving RV mileage.) And there’s always more to do the next time we return.

 

Circling the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes region offers some spectacular and serene scenery as well as opportunities for every water sport you can imagine!  Make it a goal to explore all five of the Great Lakes. Or enjoy the Lake Superior Circle Tour and include Ontario, Canada into part of your travels.  

 

Secrets of Saving RV Mileage

How much do we drive annually as full-time RVers? On average we drive around 16,000 miles per year in one vehicle. By comparison, most American couples drive about 30,000 between two vehicles.  It’s amazing, but true, that everyday short trips to work, the grocery store, and swim practice can rack up more miles than regional RV travel. You’ll save a bunch of money (and time), and be better for it!

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So, now you too figured out the art of saving RV mileage. (Nice!) Well, there are even more ways to save. Explore more in our Cutting RV Travel Costs 101 series.

The First Step to Find Your Dream RV (Part 1)
A Few RV Secrets to Help You Save on Camping Fees (Part 2)
Boondocking Essentials for RV Newbies (Part 3)
RV Kitchen Must-Haves: How to Make Memorable Meals That Save Cash (Part 4, Coming Soon)
Going Deep into Your Backyard (Part 5, Coming Soon)

Our favorite boondocking campsite is just off the road among the trees with a little babbling brook running alongside. We simply step out of our door high up in the Jefferson National Forest, and dip our kettle into the clear running stream for our morning’s coffee. But is that safe? It’s a common question RVers and campers have. Because the truth is that not everyone knows how to treat river water. 

While we all love getting outdoors, the reality is that our supplies dictate our stay in any given play. And fresh water is near the top of any supply list. How much you have will ultimately limit your stay at any beautiful place — no matter your RV’s holding tank capacity. Since most American use an average of 82 gallons of freshwater per day, business as usual ain’t gonna cut it!

Of course, conserving water helps. But having ways to treat river water and other sources to replenish you freshwater supply? That will enable you to enjoy your location far longer. 

 

Why You Need to Treat River Water?

 We’re visual creatures, so don’t feel bad if you’ve looked a stream, lake, or pond then said (or thought), “This water looks so clear … I wonder if I could drink it.” Deep down though, you probably know you shouldn’t go for the chug-a-lug. Any freshwater source found in the wild is also used by wildlife. Mammals, including people, can carry bacteria in their GI tract that can make us sick. Since their waste finds its way into the water source,  single-celled organisms — like Giardia — and viruses can be found in even the clearest sources. 

Which means you to treat it before you drink it. And if you don’t know how, you can learn any one of the following ways to naturally replenish your freshwater supply.

 

Ways to Treat Freshwater

Boil It

How it works: Most folks know this one. And it works. Heat will kill any bacteria, protozoa, or viruses in the water. Just ensure that it comes to a rolling boil. Any heat source can do the job, stove, campfire, or even a candle under a tin can.  

• Upside: lightweight, mobile and a  two-in-one for hot drinks. 
• Downside: requires time, fuel, and won’t remove sediment.

 

Treat It With Chemicals

How it works: Iodine and chlorine tablets or drops can treat water while camping or at home. So long as your chemical supply is strong, you can use this method.

• Upside: lightweight, easy to measure in liter bottles. 
• Downside: needs time to dissolve in the water, and diffuse throughout the liquid to be effective (usually 20-30 minutes); also, it can leave a bad taste.

 

Use a Filter

How it works: Filters can separate out most large, single-celled organisms, bacteria and protozoa — in addition to sediment. (The two previous methods don’t do that.) That makes filters a great way to get clean drinking water from a muddy source. Filters with an iodine screen will also kill the viruses that might pass through the filtration process.

• Upside: the best tasting option to remove harmful microbes and sediment.
• Downside: can be heavy, easily clogged, and difficult or time consuming for a larger group.

 

Employ Ultraviolet Light

How it works: First off, this is not just leaving the water in the sun. You’ll need a lightweight UV device that emits a light which you immerse into your water container for a specific length of time. The UV light kills the bacteria and viruses. 

• Upside: easy to use, simple, and straightforward.
• Downside: can be expensive, requires batteries, and won’t remove sediment. 

 

 

Let Gravity Do the Work

How it works: When tent camping in the backcountry or in our RV, we most often use a simple in-line filter for treating water. We even made a gravity filter with the following that can do the work while we do something else.  

• 2 containers to hold water
• 1 inline filter
• 2 lengths of flexible tubing 

 

First, fill the first container with untreated water. Place it higher (rock, tree stump, picnic table) than the second, which will collect the treated water. Place the input tubing into the untreated water and create some suction on the output. Once the water is flowing, place the output tubing into the clean second container.

It helps if both tubes are already full of potable water to start the flow. This will create a siphon from the dirty water container which will flow through the filter and leave you with potable water on the other end, as described in this video. 

 

 

Think About Site Selection

Move up the watershed whenever possible. This makes sense, right? The closer that you are to the source the more likely that the water will  be cleaner and have less sediment. As an example, if you’re near a stream, see if there is a creek close by flowing into it? Likewise, if you’re on a lake, is there a stream coming into it? You get the idea. Point is that you want to get as close to the source as makes sense for your situation. Doing so will likely give you water that’s at a better starting point for purification.

 

 

Tip for Sediment Removal

Use a bucket to collect water and let it settle out overnight. Gently skim the cleaner water off the top. Try pouring the water through a bandanna, t-shirt, or clean pillowcase. To get a little more serious with seriously silty, muddy water, you can use a chemical water kit like Water Wizard that uses a polyaluminum-chloride solution, which binds with the sediment and helps it fall to the bottom. Once the sediment falls, the water above is more easily filtered or treated for drinking. We used this during our Grand Canyon rafting adventure, and it worked spectacularly!

 

 

When Do I Not Need to Treat Water?

Generally, if you’re washing dishes, yourself, or clothing, you don’t need to purify the water. Expecially if your water source is generally clean and not contaminated from recent flooding or heavy rain.

 

 

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We hope these tips allow you to stay for longer at your next boondocking site, and keep you camping instead of going in search of an RV refill station.Of course, which method is best for you depends upon how you’re camping and what you want to carry in your RV.  Personally, we like to bring iodine tabs in our small first aid kit that we take everywhere.  The tiny bottle will last for years as a backup method, even if we bring along a pump filter. But that’s what works for us. Your preferred method to treat river water may be different. 

Did you know that the National Park Service manages and maintains 122 cave and karst systems across the globe? It’s OK if you didn’t. (And it’s also OK if you now want to Google “karst system.” We’ll save you the trouble: A karst is an irregular limestone region with sinkholes, underground streams, and caverns.) At one point, all this was new to us as well. When we started exploring the parks with our own RV, we had only heard of a few caves. (Nor did we know that there are six different types of caves.) Now, while every cave is fascinating and unique in its own way, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of the big names in the cave world. And there are good reasons why.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park hosts some of the most spectacular and accessible cave formations in North America. It’s something to behold — a bucket list thing. A thing that you will always remember, as will anyone else you take. All this to say: It’s very worthy of an RV road trip.

So, here are some highlights of this otherworldly park that’s located in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert of New Mexico.

 

Scenic Drives 

As you might suspect, Carlsbad Caverns National Park does not offer a traditional scenic drive. (Naturally, ou can’t drive through the cave.) But getting there is half the adventure! The scenic beauty heading northeast on U.S. Route 70 out of Las Cruces into the Tularosa Basin allows you gorgeous views and the opportunity to explore White Sands National Park. Further along on U.S. Route 82, you can detour into the fascinating history surrounding Alamogordo, as well as the beautiful Sacramento Mountains and Lincoln National Forest to the north and east. Add a trip along U.S.  Route 62 to the nearby Guadalupe Mountains National Park (containing the highest peak in Texas), and you’ll have racked up three national park visits in one RV road trip!

Must-Hike Trails 

There are two options for self-guided cave exploration. One trail is pretty easy, but the other is quite challenging for many people.  Timed entry tickets for self-guided tours are required to enter Carlsbad Caverns and must be made online. This applies to everyone, even if you are an annual pass holder. 

• Take It Easy on the Big Room Trail. This relatively flat 1.25-mile trail allows you to explore the largest single cave chamber (by volume) in North America. You can take an elevator down to this room, or hike to it via the Natural Entrance. Note: For a shorter trail, there is a shortcut which reduces the walking distance to about a half mile. Also, parts of the Big Room Trail are wheelchair accessible.
• Descend and Ascend the Natural Entrance Trail. This 1.25 mile is extremely steep and allows you to follow the footsteps of early explorers as you pass various cave formations. The elevation loss (in) and gain (out) is 750 feet. For a little perspective, that’s equivalent to a 75-story building. Note: This trail is not recommended for visitors with heart or respiratory conditions, and is not an accessible trail.
• Enjoy Above Ground Trails. If caves simply aren’t your thing, you can opt for open air. The park offers several above ground trails. Among them include: Walnut Canyon Overlook, Chihuahuan Desert Nature Trail, Slaughter Canyon Cave Trail, Old Guano Trail, Juniper Ridge, Lower Rattlesnake Canyon, Upper Rattlesnake Canyon to Guadalupe Ridge Loop, Slaughter Canyon, Yucca Canyon, Guadalupe Ridge, and the Guadalupe Ridge Trail.

 

 

RV Parks & Campgrounds 

There are no RV campgrounds within the park boundaries, and overnight RV parking is not permitted. Primitive camping is allowed in the backcountry only, and requires a free permit which is issued at the park’s visitor center when you arrive.

If you’re not a primitive camper, the closest campground and amenities are available in White’s City, New Mexico. It’s about seven miles away. Also, Carlsbad, New Mexico (about 20 miles northeast of the park) also has a few campground options.  

If you’re boondocking, the park is surrounded by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and they allow permit-free RV and tent camping.

Seasonal Advice 

For over 275 days out of the year, the park greets visitors with gorgeous blue and sunny skies! Temperatures ranging from 90 degrees to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit are typical during summer. So, bring plenty of water, do any outside hiking early in the day, use sunscreen, and wear a hat.  If you plan to explore the caves, bring layers as the year-round temperature in the cave is a cool 56 degrees Fahrenheit!

If you plan to visit during the off-season or shoulder season, windy conditions and mild temperatures are common in early spring (March-May). And you’ll encounter frequent rain during monsoon season in late summer/early fall (August-September). During the winter, the Chihuahuan Desert can also be quite cold with occasional snow and icy conditions. 

 

 

Insider Tips!

Popular Programs & Tours

• Ranger-Led Tours. Even if you plan to explore other parts of the cave system on your own, we highly recommend taking a guided tour first so you’ll learn about cave formations/ecosystems and know what you are looking at when you are on your own.  The King’s Palace Tour is the only guided tour currently available – space is limited and reservations are recommended.
• Bat Flight Program.  Hundreds of thousands of Brazilian free-tailed bats return to Carlsbad Cavern in April and stay through October. From late May-October, an evening program at the Bat Flight Amphitheater is offered every night prior to the bats making their grand exit from the cave!  No reservations are required and the start time for the program changes as the sunset time changes throughout the year.  Note: If you visit between late April and Memorial Day weekend, you can still watch the bats as they exit the cavern at dusk.
• Dawn of the Bats. Bats are nocturnal animals. They sleep all day, hunt all night, then return to the cave at dawn. While watching their mass exodus from the cavern each evening is a nightly tradition, annually on the third Saturday of July, folks gather at dawn to watch their return to the cave.
• Night Sky Programs. On several nights throughout the late spring, summer, and early fall, Star Parties and Night Hikes are offered by rangers. With the clear skies and lack of city lights nearby, you are (nearly) guaranteed the best night sky viewing you’ll ever experience.

 

 

Special Precautions

A disease known as white-nose syndrome is killing bats in North America. To prevent it from spreading, do not wear shoes, clothing, or gear into any cave at Carlsbad Caverns that were worn/used in another cave.

If the thrill of the hunt and the freedom of RV travel are calling your name, you’re not alone. Every year, lots of hunters do the most natural thing the world: They take their RV. Because when hunting, your RV isn’t just a place to crash after a long day. It’s your mobile base camp, kitchen, and gear storage all in one. But how do you prepare your rig for an RV hunting trip? Having the right setup can mean the difference between a hassle-free hunt and scrambling to make things work in the wild.

So, whether you’re hunting in dense forests, open plains, or rugged mountains, having your RV prepped ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Let’s talk about five key steps to get your rig — and yourself — ready for an epic RV hunting trip.

 

How to Prepare Your RV for a Hunting Trip

1. Choose the Right RV for the Hunt

This may sound obvious, but let’s be clear from the beginning: Not every RV is suited for outdoor hunting excursions. First, read the lay of the land where you’ll be hunting. Consider the type of terrain and location you’ll be accessing. Doing so can help you determine the right rig for an RV hunting trip. If you don’t own the right RV, you can borrow or rent one. Looking to do this every year? Keep these factors in mind if your shopping for a mobile base camp.

• Compact and Maneuverable. A truck campers, Class Bs, and smaller Class Cs iare ideal for narrow forest roads or remote areas. These rigs are easier to park in tight spaces.
• Off-Road Ready. Look for an RV with good ground clearance, off-road tires, and durable suspension if you’re venturing off the beaten path.
• Ample Storage. Secure storage compartments are essential for firearms, ammunition, hunting gear, and supplies. Keeping your gear organized ensures it’s safe and easily accessible when you need it.

 

Pro Tip: Test-drive your RV in similar terrain to where you’ll be hunting. This will give you confidence in maneuvering your rig through tight forest roads or rugged landscapes.

 

2. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Trip

Proper planning is essential for any successful hunting adventure. And that includes your RV hunting trip. Logistics will impact how you need to use your storage. (For weapons and ammunition, that could also include laws you need to comply with.) Here are a few tips to set yourself up for success.

• Research Your Location. Scout public lands, state parks, or private hunting grounds that allow RV camping. Check for campgrounds nearby that offer easy access to hunting areas.
• Self-Sufficiency is Key. Ensure your RV can support off-grid camping with enough water, propane, and power. A combo of solar power and generator backup is always a good choice if possible. You don’t want to cut your trip short because of a supply shortage.
• Know the Rules. Many hunting areas have strict regulations, so double-check permits and bag limits before heading out. Some public lands may also have restrictions on camping or RV access. Also, research state and local laws concerning the transportation and storage of firearms and ammunition. Every state is different, and you don’t want to get caught out of compliance through simple negligence.

 

Pro Tip: Save offline maps and check weather forecasts on your phone or GPS device to ensure you have all the information you need, even when cell service is unavailable.

 

3. Pack the Essential Gear for Hunting Success

Having the right equipment makes all the difference when it’s time to hunt. Here are some must-have items that you’ll need to pack carefully into your rig.

• Hunting Gear. Pack your firearms or bows, ammunition, camouflage, binoculars, game calls, and scent blockers. Use secure storage to protect your equipment while on the road.
• Cold-Weather Gear. Hunting season often means early mornings and chilly weather. Bring insulated clothing, hand warmers, and maybe your favorite camo blanket.
• Portable Butchering Kit. If you’re successful on your hunt, you’ll need tools to process your game. Pack knives, tarps, gloves, and coolers for transporting your haul back to camp.

 

Pro Tip: Use plastic totes or dry bags to store your hunting gear. This keeps everything organized and protected from dirt, moisture, and unexpected weather conditions.

 

4. Stay Safe and Be Prepared

Safety is critical when you’re out on an RV hunting trip in remote areas. As any hunter will tell you, it’s a serious sport. Firearm safety is one thing. Animals that don’t want to go down without a fight is another. And all this is happening over broken terrain, often in harsh weather conditions away from civilization. Long story short: Make sure your RV is equipped with the right tools and supplies.

• Practice Firearm Safety. It may sound basic, but we’re going to say it: Never point at anything you don’t intend to kill. Muzzle awareness is paramount as you hunt, as is positive identification. Even after you track your kill, be careful. Many large animals, while reposed, may not be yet be dead. Which means they’re still dangerous if casually approached.
• Emergency Supplies: Bring a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, and extra batteries or power banks for flashlights and GPS devices. 
• Monitor Weather Conditions: Hunting in bad weather can be dangerous, so stay updated on forecasts and road conditions. Plan accordingly to avoid getting stuck in snow or heavy rain.
• Stay Clean and Organized. After a day in the field, an outdoor shower or portable wash station can help you clean up without bringing mud or scent into your RV.

 

Pro Tip: Keep a spare tire and basic repair tools on hand in case of emergencies. In remote areas, having the ability to fix minor issues on the spot can save your trip.

 

5. Make the Most of Your Base Camp

Your RV is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a base camp that can enhance your hunting experience.

• Set Up Near the Hunting Grounds. Park your RV as close to the hunting site as possible to minimize travel time, but make sure you are safe and not in any possible line of fire. This allows you to maximize hunting hours and return quickly for meals and rest.
• Stay Flexible. Use your RV as a mobile camp, allowing you to explore different areas without the hassle of tearing down and setting up camp repeatedly.
• Bring the Crew. If you’re hunting with friends or family, ensure your RV provides enough space and comfort for everyone. Having a warm place to gather and rest makes the experience more enjoyable.

 

Pro Tip: Create an outdoor space with chairs and a portable firepit. After a long day of hunting, it’s the perfect spot to relax, share stories, and cook up a hearty meal.

 

Bonus Tips for a Successful RV Hunting Trip

Prepare for Boondocking

Some of the best hunting spots are far from RV parks with hookups. (Many are on private land.) Make sure your RV has solar panels, water tanks, and generators to handle off-grid living.

 

Winterize Your Rig

If your RV hunting trip is during cold weather, ensure your RV’s water tanks and pipes are protected from freezing. Tank heaters and insulated compartments are a must.

 

Manage Game Properly

Bring coolers and ice packs to store any game you harvest. Keep the inside of your RV clean by processing game outdoors whenever possible.

 

Know the Other Wildlife

If you are hunting in areas with bears, wolves, or other predators, know the food storage rules so that you don’t have any unexpected or unwanted visitors.

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With the right RV, thoughtful preparation, and a solid game plan, your RV hunting trip can be both successful and comfortable. From scouting locations to setting up the perfect base camp, an RV allows you to enjoy the great outdoors without sacrificing convenience.

So, gear up! Prep your rig and get ready to hit the road for your next hunting adventure. With your RV as your mobile hunting lodge, you’ll be ready for anything the wilderness throws your way!

Early on in our national park travels, we fell in love with all that Washington State offers. There are emerald forests dripping in moss. And glacial peaks. There is coastal surf. And there are the Columbia plains. From end to end, Olympic National Park showcases a landscape full of diversity. So, as you might imagine, our recent deep dive into the Olympic Peninsula has only deepened our love affair with Washington State!

What makes Olympic National Park so diverse, so exciting, and so worthy of an RV road trip? We’re happy to share everything we learned. That way, you can take your RV trip at the right time and be clued into all the incredible sights.

Scenic Drives 

Olympic National Park is spread out across the vast Olympic Peninsula. This strip of earth is uncanny. It contains ice-capped summits, dense rainforest, and an accessible rocky coastline. Which means that no matter where you are, the view is incredible and arresting. And that includes your RV’s view from the road. Taking the Olympic Peninsula Loop itself takes you 329 miles and about eight hours. But there are also several drives throughout the parkthat  highlight the best of each section.  

• Hurricane Ridge Road. Hurricane Ridge* climbs from nearly sea level in Port Angeles, WA to 5,242 feet. The drive offers gorgeous mountain views of the Olympic mountain range on clear days. 
• Highway 101 Detours. The peninsula’s western coast offers numerous stunning beaches such as South, Kalaloch/Ruby, and Mora/Rialto. Each showcases a beautiful, rocky coastline.  
• Hoh River Road. Just driving into the Hoh Rainforest* is a stunner, a prequel to the trails you’ll find.
• Sol Duc Road. The Sol Duc area offers both hot springs for soaking and Lake Crescent for water sports. The area is full of beautiful headwaters flowing down the mountain.
• Hoko-Ozette Road. Picturesque and quiet, Ozette is a gateway to Olympic National Park’s coastal wilderness. It’s also the westernmost point of the contiguous 48 states – Cape Alava.

 

*Be prepared for mid-day traffic during the busy season. The park meters vehicles coming in at the entrance station to avoid traffic jams in the parking areas.  Also, consider leaving your rig and driving either just your tow vehicle or your toad.

 

 

Must-Hike Trails 

The park maintains several hiking areas. So, you can expect to find something for all interests, time, and ability in every section of the park. (And really, all across the peninsula.) 

• Stroll Through a Rainforest. Yes, you read that right: a rainforest. And yes, still in North America. Enter the famous Hoh Rainforest. Dripping in moss and lichen, you’ll be enveloped in nearly every shade of green. Stop by the visitor center next to the campground for a short ranger-led program, or better yet, take a ranger-led walk through the forest. 
• Bring Binos on a Whale Trail. Trails along the western coastline beaches are dotted with tide pools and sea stacks as far as the eye can see. Hike a short distance from the parking areas, and you’ll experience fewer crowds and find your own special place. Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for spouts, you may just be blessed with a distant whale sighting!   
• Give an Olympic Effort. Enjoy a more serious climb up to Hurricane Ridge for a view of Mount Olympus on a clear day. And if you are lucky, views can include Mount Baker and Mount Rainier to the north and east across the Puget Sound.
• Stretch Toward the West. Hike to the westernmost point of the contiguous 48 states along the 4-mile (mostly boardwalk) trail out to Cape Alava from Ozette.  Worth every minute of the journey! 

 

 

RV Parks & Campgrounds 

The national park maintains 14 campgrounds with 11 of them open to RVs.  Just two are run by local concessionaires: Sol Duc and Log Cabin campgrounds. Both offer serviced sites.  Most campgrounds have only a few sites that can accommodate RVs greater than 30 feet, so plan ahead. Many of Olympic National Park’s campgrounds are reservation-only during the busy season, but a few remain first-come, first-served for those “less planned” travelers.  

Beyond federal campgrounds maintained by the park, the peninsula offers many camping areas — national and state recreation areas, state parks, state land, county parks, as well as some low-key RV parks. While camping reservations are probably only necessary in the summer months, it’s good to confirm because each campground opens and closes at different times of the year.

If you are equipped with solar power and interested in off-grid camping or boondocking, check out the iOverlander app for some good overnight options on the “edges” of the peninsula where you will find fewer trees.

 

Seasonal Advice 

The best time to visit Olympic National Park is June through September, though the months of May and October offer some unique beauty and fewer crowds. It is situated in a temperate rainforest along the ocean, so this peninsula gets a lot of moisture in the form of rain, snow, and low hanging fog. While we were blessed with sun for days on end, we also had off and on rain for an entire week.  Bring quality rain gear and comfortable muck boots to stay dry when this rainforest earns its designation!  

 

 

Insider PRO Tips!  

• The very best way to explore and experience this stunning park is by foot and by water, so bring those hiking shoes and kayaks/canoes!
• The popular areas of the park can be very crowded between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. So, channel your early bird or go later in the day to avoid pressure on roads, parking areas, and trails. 
• The Olympic Peninsula is known for its temperamental weather, so give yourself plenty of time for your visit. Personally, we recommend one to two weeks to experience a variety of weather.