Many think fall is the best time to load up the RV and hit their favorite parks. And we sure can’t argue with them.
Sure, campgrounds are a dime a dozen, but some offer more of a quintessential autumn experience than others.
We’ve rounded up seven of the best places to set up your home away from home and relish the best parts of the season.
Let’s hit the road!
The Joys of Autumn Camping
You’ve finally made it through the dog days of summer. There’s a cool breeze in the air, and the leaves are just beginning to turn. What better way to celebrate than spending time in the great outdoors?
Of course, fall foliage is a major perk of traveling this time of year. But you’ll find much more to love about camping in autumn!
Fall is when the bugs retreat and let you enjoy peaceful evenings outside. Plus, you can cozy up next to the campfire instead of sweltering as you cook dinner. Speaking of cooking, so many of our favorite comfort foods, like chili and stew, are simply better when there’s a chill in the air.
And cooler temperatures are also great for sleeping. Small spaces like a tent or travel trailer can heat up quickly, making for a less-than-pleasant night’s rest.
While spring may be the season of renewal, autumn seems to breathe new life into the camping community. If you have the bug to get into nature this fall, check out these RV parks that provide the best post-summer experiences.
#1 Ouray Riverside Resort, Colorado
You’ll want to check out the Ouray Riverside Resort for excitement, relaxation, and unbeatable views. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains along the Uncompahgre River, this isn’t your average campground.
Sure, the RV park is open year-round and offers a range of hookup options. They have cabins and hotel rooms for folks without a camper. And everyone has access to the on-site cafe, trading post, and laundromat.
But this resort takes adventure seriously, and getting out into nature is where they really shine!
You can rent a Jeep to off-road the many nearby trails and abandoned mining roads. Fall is an excellent time for four-wheel-drive excursions since you’ll likely find fewer washouts in the backcountry.
But if you’re ready to leave the car, the staff can help you organize a rafting tour down the river, a fly fishing trip, or a gold panning session. And when it’s time to relax, you can settle into one of the many nearby hot springs. These therapeutic pools are the perfect way to soothe achy muscles and revitalize the spirit.
#2 Mountain River Family Campground, North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular destinations for fall foliage. Only five miles from this iconic stretch of highway is the Mountain River Family Campground.
Almost all of their spacious sites have no maximum length, so you can camp here no matter how big your rig is. Each spot has full hookups, complimentary trash service, and free WiFi. Plus, there’s a new laundry facility, renovated bathhouses, and a recreation center with arcade games.
The North Toe River borders one side of the property, while a private lake sits in the center, so most campsites are waterfront or close to it. Early fall is ideal for trout fishing at this RV park. Just be sure to pick up a fishing license before casting a line.
Nearby, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails through the Smoky Mountains, where you can immerse yourself in the colors of autumn.
You’ll want a few extra camping accessories this time of year. Check out our 9 Fall Favorites for RV Life.
#3 Petoskey State Park, Michigan
Along the shores of Lake Michigan is Petoskey State Park. This location offers a unique opportunity to witness the changing seasons.
M-119 is a scenic drive that’s home to Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees. You’ll cruise through 20 miles of striking colors from Harbor Springs to Cross Village. Dense forests rise all around you, giving the impression of a living tunnel.
Back in the park, multiple campgrounds cater to different needs. Folks with tents or camper vans can utilize the compact sites at Petoskey-Dunes. This spot is family-friendly and well-shaded. If you have a bigger rig, you can check out the Petoskey-Tannery Creek Modern Campground. Each paved site has full hookups and free recycling.
You might even want to book a group site or a stay in one of the park’s mini cabins. No matter how you choose to overnight at this RV park, you’ll enjoy the colorful beauty of fall.
#4 Rollins RV Park, Montana
It’s hard to beat autumn in Montana, especially if you’re camping. Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists mean there’s even more to love about this area. And that’s certainly true in Flathead Valley.
If a family-oriented campground is up your alley, you’ll want to reserve a spot at Rollins RV Park. Located on the western shore of Flathead Lake, they offer sites with full hookups as well as primitive tent spots.
And if you’re not RVing already, you can book a camper or a cabin. They also have boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals so you can get out on the water.
And even if you manage to get bored at the campground, plenty of local activities will fill your schedule. Oktoberfest celebrations, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches are in full swing this time of year.
Plus, you’ll be minutes from Glacier National Park. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is an incredible place to peep those leaves! Just make sure you visit before mid-October when the road closes to traffic.
#5 Treetopia Campground, New York
Anyone can enjoy fall foliage from the ground, but what about staying in the trees themselves? That’s right. At Treetopia Campground, you can book a treehouse and truly surround yourself with the season’s colors.
But this place is more than its quirky elevated accommodations. They offer Airstream rentals for on-site lodging, cabins, and even glamping tents. You’ll also find standard RV spots with water and electrical hookups.
And wherever you stay, you’ll have access to their swimming pool and other amenities.
Treetopia is in New York’s Catskill Mountains, one of the country’s premier destinations. This region is known for its natural beauty, and many argue that the best time to visit is between summer and winter.
Experience the glorious New England autumn: 5 Great Scenic Drives for Fall Leaf Peeping in the Northeast.
#6 Lincoln Rock State Park, Washington
Smack in the middle of Washington is a land formation that looks eerily similar to Abraham Lincoln. His face overlooks the 86-acre state park named for the presidential outcropping.
It’s at the southern end of the famous Cascade Loop. This National Scenic Byway spans 440 miles throughout the state and passes through unforgettable landscapes. Once the weather turns cool, Aspen, Western Larch, and Tamarack trees explode into red, yellow, and orange hues.
Lincoln Rock State Park is on Lake Entiat, so you’ll have spectacular waterfront views and plenty of recreation opportunities. You can get a tasty treat at the Snack Shack, play a round of horseshoes, or explore the two miles of trails on foot or horseback.
And the on-site RV park means you’ll be camping among the fall colors. The park has spots with full and partial hookups, tent sites, and cabins for rent.
Compact blankets like this one are great to have on hand for fall camping: EverSnug Sherpa Waterproof Camping Blanket.
#7 Tumalo State Park, Oregon
Tumalo State Park sits along the Deschutes River. Just north of Bend, Oregon, this idyllic destination is the perfect home base for exploring the area. This state is known for its fall foliage but embraces the season in many ways.
You can visit apple and pear orchards to pick your own fruit, wander through a corn maze, or sip a locally crafted pumpkin beer. Harvest time means restaurants offer fresh-picked produce.
Some eateries even have special Oktoberfest menus featuring bratwurst and schnitzel.
Tumalo State Park has year-round accommodations for RVers and tent campers. You can also stay in one of their yurts. Some, but not all, of their sites are ADA-accessible, so be sure to check their availability before showing up.
Toilets and hot showers are available for lodgers. You’ll also have access to several nearby hiking trails, a playground, and of course, the Deschutes River.
Celebrate Fall by Camping at the Best
Consider celebrating that chill in the air this fall with a trip to one of these highly-rated RV parks. You’ll see spectacular sights along the way and enjoy all the perks of the season.
We can’t think of a better way to relax than lounging by the fire with a hot mug of cider as memories of blistering weather fade into the distance!
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
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