How to Choose the Best RV Camping Destinations for Your Trip

You've got the RV. The sense of adventure is buzzing. Now comes the hard part: figuring out where to actually go. The internet is flooded with lists of "best RV camping destinations," but most read like they were written by someone who's never actually backed a 30-foot rig into a tight campsite. Let's cut through the noise. Choosing where to park for the night isn't just about scenery; it's a practical puzzle involving hookups, road access, booking windows, and what you really want out of the trip. I've learned this through a decade of trips, from frustrating misadventures to perfect, serene finds.

The Destination Breakdown: Coast, Desert & Mountain

Think about the vibe you want. Ocean waves, silent desert stars, or pine-scented mountain air? Each environment demands different prep and offers a distinct RV experience. Here’s a look at top-tier spots in each category, with the nitty-gritty details that actually help you plan.

Top 1: Coastal Classic – Oregon Coast, Pacific Northwest

Driving the US-101 with the ocean on one side and forest on the other is pure RV magic. But the famous state park campgrounds like Nehalem Bay or Beverly Beach book up six months to the day in advance on the Oregon State Parks website. If you miss that window, don't panic.

Look for county-run parks or private RV parks in towns like Florence or Newport. They often have shorter booking windows and better last-minute availability. The trade-off? You might be a short drive from the beach instead of right on it. The coastal weather is a crapshoot—pack a fantastic waterproof jacket and plan for indoor activities. The reward is breathtaking vistas, fresh seafood from local docks, and that iconic misty atmosphere.

Top 2: Desert Gem – Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree is an otherworldly landscape perfect for RVers. Here’s the crucial intel: There are no hookups inside the national park. Zero. Nada. You'll be dry camping (boondocking). The popular Jumbo Rocks Campground has spacious sites for smaller to mid-size RVs, but it's first-come, first-served—a risky gamble unless you arrive on a Tuesday morning. The nearby town of Twentynine Palms is your lifeline.

My personal strategy? Book a site for a few nights at an RV park in Twentynine Palms with full hookups. I use it as a base to explore the park daily, refill my fresh water, and empty my tanks. After a few days of desert hiking, a long shower and running the A/C without worrying about my batteries feels like luxury. The National Park Service website has precise RV length limits for each campground—measure your rig from bumper to bumper and believe them.

Top 3: Mountain Majesty – Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier is stunning, but its narrow, winding Going-to-the-Sun Road has vehicle size restrictions (max 21' long, 8' wide, 10' high). If your RV is bigger, you can't drive the iconic road. This is a deal-breaker many gloss over.

The solution? Park your large RV at a campground on the east or west side (like St. Mary / East Glacier KOA or West Glacier KOA) and use the park's excellent shuttle system or tow a small car. The campgrounds inside the park, like Many Glacier, are spectacular but have small sites. Booking opens months ahead and sells out in minutes. Be logged in and ready the second reservations open.

What Most RV Destination Guides Won't Tell You

Scenery is just the cover of the book. The real story is in the logistics. Here are the under-discussed factors that make or break an RV trip to these popular spots.

Road Access is Everything. That stunning lakeside campground on the map? The final 5 miles might be a steep, winding, potholed forest service road with low-hanging branches. Always check the campground's official page or call the ranger station. I once spent an hour nervously inching a 28-foot Class C down a road meant for Jeeps. Never again.

Cell Service Dictates Workability. Planning to work remotely or keep the kids entertained? Coverage in national parks and remote coastal areas is famously spotty. Check crowd-sourced coverage maps like those from the RV Mobile Internet Resource Center. You might need to schedule your stay to include a mid-trip stop at an RV park with robust Wi-Fi to upload files or download movies.

The "Local Vibe" Matters. Some destinations are quiet and serene; others are hubs of activity. A resort-style RV park near Branson, Missouri, will have pools, mini-golf, and live music—great for families. A remote site in the Colorado Rockies offers solitude but zero entertainment. Match the destination's energy to your own.

How to Make the Final Choice for Your RV Trip

When you've narrowed it down, run through this checklist. It sounds simple, but it prevents 80% of common headaches.

Check Your Rig's Size Against Site Limits. Not just length, but also height (for tree branches) and slide-out room. A site listed for "30-foot RVs" might be impossible if you have two large slide-outs.

Understand the Hookup Situation. Do you need 50-amp service for two A/C units? Are you comfortable dry camping for the number of days planned? Does the park have a dump station?

Read Recent Reviews, Specifically for RVs. Don't just look at the overall star rating. Filter reviews by phrases like "big rig," "towing," or "backing in." These will tell you if the roads are manageable and the sites are level.

Have a Contingency Plan. Weather happens. Wildfires, floods, and road closures can happen. Always check the park's website or call ahead for current conditions and availability.

Your RV Trip Questions Answered

Your RV Trip Questions Answered

What are the best RV camping destinations for first-timers with pets?

Look for private RV resorts over public parks. Chains like KOA or Jellystone are often more predictable with pet policies, offering designated dog parks and waste stations. State park campgrounds can be hit or miss—always call ahead to confirm leash rules and breed restrictions, which aren't always listed online. Avoid boondocking on BLM land as your first trip with a pet; the lack of facilities and potential wildlife encounters add unnecessary stress.

Can I go RV camping in popular destinations during winter?

Yes, but preparation is everything. Destinations like Joshua Tree or the Southwest deserts are prime for winter. The key mistake is assuming 'winterizing' only means your RV's plumbing. You also need to manage condensation inside. Run your roof vent fan on low constantly, use moisture-absorbing products, and avoid drying clothes indoors. Many campgrounds have reduced winter rates, but services like water fill-ups may be limited. Always confirm which loops are open and plowed.

How can I save money on RV camping at expensive destinations?

Book shoulder seasons, not just off-peak. The week after Labor Day at a lake resort or the month before Memorial Day in mountain areas often has the same weather but half the crowd and price. Use a mix of stays: splurge for 2 nights at a full-hookup resort, then offset costs with 3 nights at a nearby state park or national forest campground. Memberships like Passport America offer 50% discounts, but research partner parks near your target destination first—the savings only work if the location is right.