Avoid These 7 States for RVing This Summer

RVing is one of the most liberating ways to explore the United States, offering the freedom to roam vast landscapes, park under starlit skies, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. However, not every state is ideal for RV camping, especially during the summer months when weather, crowds, and local conditions can turn a dream trip into a nightmare.

Based on extensive research, including user experiences shared on Reddit and X, weather data, and RV-specific challenges, here are seven states you might want to avoid for RVing this summer (June through August 2025), along with detailed reasons why and alternative destinations that promise a better experience.

Why Summer RVing Requires Careful Planning

Summer is peak RV season, with millions of Americans hitting the road to enjoy national parks, beaches, and forests. According to the RV Industry Association, over 11 million U.S. households own an RV, and summer accounts for the highest rental and travel demand, with 65% of RV trips occurring between June and August.

However, summer also brings extreme heat, severe weather, overcrowding, and unique regional challenges that can make certain states less appealing. Factors like temperature, humidity, storm risks, campsite availability, and local regulations can significantly impact your trip.

Below, we outline seven states to steer clear of, supported by statistics, real-world quotes, and practical insights.

1. Florida: Swelter, Storms, and Crowds

Why Avoid It: Florida’s summer climate is a dealbreaker for many RVers. Average high temperatures in June through August range from 88°F to 92°F, with humidity levels often exceeding 80%, creating a stifling environment, especially in an RV without robust air conditioning.

The National Weather Service reports that Florida experiences the highest frequency of thunderstorms in the U.S., with 80–100 thunder days annually, and summer is peak hurricane season (June 1–November 30). In 2024, Florida was hit by three major hurricanes, causing widespread campground closures and road damage. Additionally, popular destinations like the Florida Keys and Orlando are overcrowded, with RV campsites booked months in advance.

A Reddit user on r/RVLiving lamented, “Tried RVing in Florida last July. Between the heat, bugs, and every site being packed, it was miserable”.

Specific Challenges:

Mosquitoes and Bugs: Florida’s wetlands breed aggressive mosquitoes, and summer rains exacerbate the problem. DEET and screens are must-haves, but they don’t always suffice.
Campsite Costs: Prime spots like those near Disney World or Key West can cost $100–$150 per night, with limited availability.
Road Congestion: Heavy tourist traffic, especially on I-95 and U.S. 1, leads to delays, frustrating RV drivers.

Alternative Destination: Michigan

Instead of Florida, head to Michigan, particularly the Upper Peninsula (UP). Summer highs average 70–80°F, with low humidity and refreshing lake breezes. Michigan boasts over 1,000 campgrounds, many along the shores of the Great Lakes, offering stunning views and affordable rates ($20–$50 per night). The UP’s Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Tahquamenon Falls are less crowded than Florida’s hotspots.

A Reddit user on r/AskAnAmerican praised, “Northern Michigan and the UP is amazing in the summer. Perfect for RVing with cool weather and endless nature”. Plus, Michigan’s low risk of severe weather ensures a safer trip.

2. Arizona: Scorching Heat and Scorpions

Why Avoid It: Arizona’s summer temperatures are brutal, often exceeding 100°F in Phoenix and Tucson, with lows rarely dipping below 80°F at night. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recorded Phoenix hitting 110°F or higher on 55 days in 2024, a trend likely to continue. RV air conditioners struggle to keep up, and boondocking (camping without hookups) is risky due to heat exhaustion.

A Reddit user in r/RVLiving shared, “I spent a couple months this past summer going out on nightly scorpion hunts in my back yard [in Arizona]. I recognized the futility of it after I killed my 100th scorpion”. Scorpions, rattlesnakes, and other desert critters pose additional hazards. Popular parks like Grand Canyon National Park are packed, with RV sites requiring reservations a year in advance.

Specific Challenges:

Water Scarcity: Boondocking requires ample water, but Arizona’s arid climate makes refilling tanks challenging outside established campgrounds.
High Campground Fees: Sites near Sedona or Flagstaff average $60–$100 per night due to demand.
Altitude Sickness: Northern Arizona’s high elevations (6,000–7,000 feet) can cause discomfort for unprepared RVers.

Alternative Destination: Colorado

Colorado offers a cooler, more RV-friendly summer experience. Highs in the Rockies average 70–85°F, and elevations between 6,000 and 9,000 feet keep nights crisp. With over 4,000 campgrounds, including gems like Rocky Mountain National Park and San Juan National Forest, Colorado caters to RVers.

Sites cost $30–$60 per night, and boondocking is plentiful on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land. A Reddit user on r/AskReddit noted, “Colorado is the worst state ever. We have absolutely nothing of value and everybody automatically hates you. Stay away”—a tongue-in-cheek plea to keep its beauty a secret. Colorado’s mild weather and diverse landscapes make it a top pick.

3. Louisiana: Humidity, Hurricanes, and Poor Roads

Why Avoid It: Louisiana’s summer is a swampy ordeal, with highs of 90–95°F and humidity near 90%. The state’s low elevation and coastal location amplify flood risks, especially during hurricane season. NOAA data indicates Louisiana faces a 30% chance of a named storm making landfall each summer. RV parks along the Gulf Coast are vulnerable to storm surges, and road quality is a persistent issue—Louisiana ranks 47th in the U.S. for road conditions, per the Federal Highway Administration.

A Reddit user on r/AskReddit complained, “Louisiana. The mosquitoes are the worst, they have bridges that don’t end with nothing but swamp to stare at”. Overcrowded festivals like Mardi Gras (though not in summer) spill tourism into summer months, inflating campsite prices.

Specific Challenges:

Mosquitoes and Alligators: Swamps teem with pests and wildlife, posing risks to RVers exploring backcountry sites.
Limited Boondocking: Strict regulations and private land ownership restrict free camping options.
Cultural Overlap: Summer festivals are fewer, reducing Louisiana’s appeal compared to spring.

Alternative Destination: Tennessee

Tennessee offers a milder summer with highs of 80–90°F and lower humidity. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, shared with North Carolina, is a haven for RVers, with over 800 campsites and rates of $25–$40 per night. Tennessee’s roads are better maintained (ranked 15th nationally), and attractions like Nashville’s music scene and Chattanooga’s outdoor activities are accessible.

A Reddit user on r/AskAnAmerican said, “Tennessee—Have family in the Nashville area. Really enjoy the overall feel of the upper south”. Tennessee’s blend of culture and nature is a strong substitute.

4. Texas: Extreme Heat and Crowded Parks

Why Avoid It: Texas’s sheer size means diverse climates, but summer brings oppressive heat across most of the state. Houston and Dallas hit 95–100°F with high humidity, while West Texas deserts reach 105°F. The Texas Department of Transportation notes that summer road congestion peaks due to tourism, especially in Austin and San Antonio.

Big Bend National Park, a bucket-list RV destination, is scorching and remote, with limited water and power hookups. A Reddit user on r/AskAnAmerican vented, “Trouble is it is literally hot as all hell in Texas in summer, and cold as a grave diggers as in winter”. Urban RV parks charge $70–$120 per night, and rural sites are often overbooked.

Specific Challenges:

Severe Weather: Thunderstorms and flash floods are common, particularly in Central Texas.
High Fuel Costs: Texas’s sprawling distances mean more fuel expenses for RVers, with gas prices averaging $3.50–$4.00 per gallon in 2024.
Crowds: Popular spots like Padre Island National Seashore see heavy summer traffic.

Alternative Destination: New Mexico

New Mexico offers a cooler, less crowded alternative. Summer highs in Santa Fe and Taos range from 80–90°F, with low humidity and crisp nights at higher elevations. The state has 35 state parks and numerous BLM sites ideal for boondocking, with fees as low as $10–$30 per night. Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Park are less congested than Texas’s big draws.

A Reddit user on r/AskAnAmerican noted, “I only go in the summer to escape the repressive heat [of Texas] and fly fish [in New Mexico]”. New Mexico’s artsy vibe and stunning landscapes make it a hidden gem.

5. Nevada: Desert Heat and Limited Amenities

Why Avoid It: Nevada’s summer heat is relentless, with Las Vegas averaging 100–105°F and rural areas like Great Basin National Park hitting 95°F. NOAA reports that Nevada is the driest state, with summer precipitation near zero, making water management critical for RVers. Many campgrounds lack full hookups, and boondocking requires extensive preparation.

A post on X warned, “Nevada’s summer is no joke for RVing—bring triple the water you think you need or you’re screwed.” Lake Tahoe’s Nevada side is scenic but overcrowded, with RV sites costing $80–$150 per night. Nevada’s sparse infrastructure outside urban areas also limits access to dump stations and supplies.

Specific Challenges:

Gambling Crowds: Las Vegas and Reno attract non-RV tourists, clogging roads and nearby campsites.
Wildfire Risk: Summer wildfires, fueled by dry conditions, closed 10% of Nevada’s campgrounds in 2024.
Isolation: Rural Nevada’s vast distances mean long drives to restock essentials.

Alternative Destination: Utah

Utah’s national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Arches—are RVing paradises with summer highs of 80–90°F at higher elevations. Utah has over 2,000 campgrounds, with rates of $20–$60 per night, and abundant BLM land for boondocking. The state’s roads are well-maintained (ranked 10th nationally), and attractions like Moab offer adventure without Nevada’s urban chaos.

A Reddit user on r/CasualConversation said, “Personal fav out of this selection is Utah…. my god is that state beautiful, man”. Utah’s red rock landscapes and cooler nights are perfect for summer RVing.

6. Mississippi: Humidity, Bugs, and Limited Attractions

Why Avoid It: Mississippi’s summer is muggy, with highs of 90–95°F and humidity averaging 85%. The state’s Gulf Coast faces hurricane risks, and inland areas see frequent thunderstorms. According to the U.S. Climate Data, Mississippi receives 15–20 inches of rain from June to August, leading to muddy campsites and flooded roads.

RV infrastructure is limited, with only 200 campgrounds statewide, many lacking modern amenities. A Reddit user on r/AskReddit remarked, “Mississippi is bottom of the barrel on many objective fact sheets like education and per capita prison incarceration”, reflecting a lack of investment in tourism facilities. Popular sites like the Natchez Trace Parkway are scenic but overcrowded with non-RV traffic.

Specific Challenges:

Insect Infestations: Mosquitoes and biting flies thrive in Mississippi’s humid, wooded areas.
Limited Nightlife: Beyond Biloxi’s casinos, summer entertainment is sparse, disappointing RVers seeking cultural experiences.
Poor Road Quality: Mississippi ranks 43rd for road conditions, with potholes and narrow rural roads challenging RV navigation.

Alternative Destination: North Carolina

North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains offer a cooler escape, with Asheville’s summer highs of 80–85°F and moderate humidity. The state has 500+ campgrounds, including Pisgah National Forest and Outer Banks sites, costing $25–$50 per night. North Carolina’s roads rank 20th nationally, and attractions like Biltmore Estate and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are RV-accessible.

A Reddit user on r/travel enthused, “Southeast: absolutely the best examples of deep culture that is cultivated and preserved…. North Carolina tobacco towns”. North Carolina balances natural beauty with vibrant culture.

7. North Dakota: Extreme Weather and Isolation

Why Avoid It: North Dakota’s summer can be deceptively harsh, with highs reaching 90°F and sudden thunderstorms bringing hail and high winds. The National Weather Service notes that North Dakota averages 20–30 severe thunderstorm days annually, with tornado risks in the eastern plains. The state’s remote nature—only 780,000 residents across 70,000 square miles—means limited RV amenities, with just 100 campgrounds statewide.

A Reddit user on r/AskAnAmerican warned, “North Dakota. Cold as fuck in the winter, hot as hell in the summer and to top it all off they have a serious drug problem due to being in the middle of fucking nowhere”. Popular sites like Theodore Roosevelt National Park are isolated, with spotty cell service and long drives to supplies.

Specific Challenges:

Wind: Eastern North Dakota’s flat terrain sees gusts up to 40 mph, rocking RVs and complicating setup.
Sparse Amenities: Few campgrounds offer full hookups, and dump stations are rare outside Fargo.
Limited Attractions: Beyond national parks, summer activities are minimal, leaving RVers bored.

Alternative Destination: South Dakota

South Dakota offers a more RV-friendly summer, with highs of 80–90°F and lower humidity. The Black Hills, home to Custer State Park and Badlands National Park, have 300+ campgrounds with rates of $20–$50 per night. Mount Rushmore and Deadwood add cultural appeal.

A Reddit user on r/travel shared, “I just got back from a vacation in the Black Hills and had so much fun…. it’s the kind of place that’s still beautiful to drive through”. South Dakota’s better infrastructure and attractions make it a superior choice.

Tips for a Successful Summer RV Trip

To ensure a great RVing experience, regardless of destination, consider these tips:

Check Weather Patterns: Use NOAA’s climate data to avoid states with extreme heat, humidity, or storm risks.
Book Early: Reserve campsites 6–12 months in advance for popular destinations like Colorado or Utah.
Prepare for Bugs: Pack insect repellent, screens, and citronella candles, especially in humid states.
Maintain Your RV: Ensure your air conditioner, generator, and water systems are in top shape to handle summer demands.
Research Regulations: Some states, like Utah and New Mexico, offer ample boondocking, but check BLM and state park rules.

Where Are You RVing This Summer?

RVing in the summer of 2025 promises adventure, but choosing the right destination is critical. Florida, Arizona, Louisiana, Texas, Nevada, Mississippi, and North Dakota present significant challenges—extreme weather, overcrowding, poor infrastructure, or limited amenities—that can derail your trip. Instead, opt for Michigan, Colorado, Tennessee, New Mexico, Utah, North Carolina, or South Dakota, where milder climates, abundant campgrounds, and diverse attractions create unforgettable experiences.

As a Reddit user wisely noted, “It totally depends on who you are, what your interests are, how much money you have, what kind of lifestyle you want to lead”. Plan carefully, and your summer RV adventure will be one for the books.