11 Must-See RV Spots in the Western U.S. for Epic Road Trips
Have you caught the road trip bug? Domestic RV bookings increased 14% from 2022 to 2023. Headlights illuminate the western horizon as thousands of RV travelers set their sights on adventure. Western U.S. adventurers and relaxation seekers discover their perfect playground in wide-open spaces, jaw-dropping views, and quirky roadside attractions.
Whether you seek the salty Pacific air or the stunning red canyon landscapes, your perfect RV destination awaits you. Explore 13 essential destinations with this list and its comprehensive tips and highlights to ensure your next campsite adventure is full of epic memories. Engage your seatbelt because pure road trip happiness lies beyond the next fuel stop.
Malibu Beach RV Park, California
The Malibu Beach RV Park stands high on bluffs, offering unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. It attracts visitors seeking tranquility and a California-style experience. As noted in recent reviews, the park provides streamlined amenities, including exceptional Wi-Fi and clean facilities. Ride down Coastal Highway to hit world-class surf spots, or choose a relaxed beach walk at Malibu Lagoon State Beach. Neptune’s Net offers legendary fish tacos to food enthusiasts who travel just up the road.
Insider tip: Make reservations early for summer weekends and bring binoculars to watch dolphins at your picnic table.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground, California
The Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground showcases redwoods and riverbanks near Highway 1, making it a Big Sur favorite. It provides the perfect environment to experience dense foggy woods, towering cliffs, and distinctive oceanic breezes. The RV sites are surrounded by trees, providing natural shade and privacy.
The park features multiple intersecting hiking trails, and visitors should consider taking the Pfeiffer Falls hike. The Big Sur River runs through the campground, which provides a perfect spot for a refreshing splash or a peaceful afternoon of relaxation. You should contact the campground before your arrival to confirm that the sites you need come with power hook-ups. Pro move: Since gas stations offer few options and very high prices in this area, it’s best to fill up your gas tank before reaching your destination.
North Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park stands above all other parks in its legendary status, and the North Pines Campground serves as the perfect base camp for adventures among immense cliffs and powerful waterfalls. Located just steps from the Merced River, the campground features phenomenal access to iconic sights, including Half Dome and El Capitan. Campsite spaces offer ample room, providing a peaceful blend of sunny and shaded areas.
The campground’s booking windows open several months in advance, but they fill up within hours; thus, you should set a calendar reminder to be prepared to make a reservation instantly. Many RVers recommend reaching their destination early or during the week to secure a premium campsite. Always pack bear-proof containers because these gentle giants are known to roam around campsites.
Kalaloch Campground, Olympic National Park, Washington
Kalaloch Campground transforms the mossy coastline into a magical experience. The dramatic cliffs of this spot provide stunning views over the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect setting for moody sunsets and sandy beaches filled with driftwood. Ten times more ferns and giant spruce trees than people living in Olympic National Park’s famous temperate rainforests, just a short drive away.
Rigs up to 40 feet can park at the campground, which provides direct beach access for spontaneous bonfires or tidepool explorations. Book your oceanfront spots for the peaceful sound of waves to lull you to sleep rather than traffic noise. Tip from the locals: Summer nights require layers, as they often become misty and cool.
Leavenworth RV Campground, Washington
Are you craving both adventure and Bavarian pretzels? The town of Leavenworth combines its charming Bavarian-style atmosphere with easy access to the stunning Cascade Mountains. The Leavenworth RV Campground spans 300 acres and features forests and meadows, as well as family-friendly amenities such as mini-golf and swimming pools.
Experience major summer fun by hiking at Lake Wenatchee State Park during the day or floating on the Wenatchee River at night. The downtown area maintains its Bavarian theme with year-round festivals alongside bakeries and oompah bands.
Pro tip: Visit during the autumn leaf season to experience colors that match Vermont’s best without dealing with large crowds.
Crescent Bar RV Resort, Quincy, Washington
Looking for relaxation and river views? Along the Columbia River, Crescent Bar RV Resort offers guests lush green lawns and access to the water, perfect for activities such as fishing or paddleboarding. The resort serves as a hub for outdoor performances at Gorge Amphitheatre, making it essential for music enthusiasts to review the event calendar for upcoming lineups.
Visit Washington’s cherry orchards and nearby wineries to experience its authentic flavors. The site provides a comfortable base for adventurers and those seeking relaxation with full hook-ups, modern bathhouses, and a swimming pool.
A pro RV tip: To avoid the crowds at concert weekends, you should schedule your stay for the middle of the week.
Junipers Reservoir RV Resort, Lakeview, Oregon
At Junipers Reservoir RV Resort, you’ll discover a peaceful retreat on a vast 5,000-acre functional ranch. Nature trails twist through sagebrush and juniper forests at this location, where wildlife populations exceed the number of campers. Fishing enthusiasts can access the private reservoir, while birdwatchers frequently spot hawks and herons.
The resort’s rustic setting does not prevent visitors from enjoying spacious sites, reliable Wi-Fi access, and a friendly clubhouse environment. To create a secluded atmosphere, select a camping location on the far side of the main road. Quickly accessible and with quirky small-town charm, Lakeview offers essential supplies and a local diner for breakfast.
Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon, offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and adventurous outdoor activities that captivate nature enthusiasts worldwide. RVers visit this destination because they can easily access hiking trails and enjoy paddleboarding on the Deschutes River, followed by skiing opportunities at Mt. Bachelor.
Various RV parks offer services for all price ranges and unit sizes, while numerous parks provide bicycle rental options. The downtown area teems with craft breweries, food trucks, and independent boutiques. Track local festivals on the calendar to ensure you enjoy a riverside patio pint.
Power tip: Bend is a perfect starting point for day trips to Smith Rock State Park, which has received acclaim as one of the top rock-climbing locations nationwide.
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Birdwatchers and hikers should mark this location on their maps. The Oregon town of Klamath Falls, located on the Upper Klamath Lake shoreline, hosts over 300 bird species, making it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The city offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, featuring many RV resorts near the lake or rolling hills. The Rogue Valley’s proximity allows for fantastic day trips to renowned wineries and secret waterfalls. Children will enjoy visiting local museums and zip line parks, while adults appreciate the more relaxed atmosphere.
Pro insight: Book your visit during late spring or early fall to witness the peak of bird migration.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is bold, red, and endlessly photogenic. Iconic rock formations alongside desert energy draw RV travelers seeking to reconnect with nature while embarking on outdoor adventures. This area’s RV parks feature picturesque views and convenient access to numerous hiking and biking trails. After touring the red rock vistas or visiting local art galleries, enjoy the therapeutic services at Sedona’s renowned wellness spas.
To witness an unforgettable sunrise at Cathedral Rock, you should begin your hike before the crowds arrive. RV enthusiasts recommend choosing campground sites with scenic views for maximum enjoyment while resupplying in town, as there are few options outside city limits.
Bryce Canyon National Park
RVers who appreciate breathtaking views and desert environments should visit Bryce Canyon National Park in southwestern Utah.
Millions of years of erosion by wind and water have created the park’s famous towering rock formations known as “hoodoos.” Visitors can best experience the park by traveling the 18-mile scenic route, which connects multiple viewpoints and overlooks throughout the park.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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