Shoulder season—those magical weeks between the rush of summer and the chill of winter—is the perfect time to hit the road in your RV.
The crowds thin out, the weather is just right, and the landscapes often take on a unique beauty that you can’t find at any other time of the year.
Whether you’re looking to soak in some late-season sun, enjoy vibrant fall foliage, or simply find some peace and quiet, here are seven top RV destinations to visit this shoulder season.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains are famous for their stunning fall colors. During shoulder season, you can experience the rolling fog over the mountains in the morning and the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the foliage throughout the day.
What to do: Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, hike to Clingmans Dome for panoramic views, or visit Cades Cove for a glimpse of wildlife. The temperatures are perfect for hiking, and the views are unbeatable.
Tip: Stay at Elkmont Campground, one of the most popular RV-friendly sites in the park, to enjoy close proximity to trails and historic sites.
2. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion’s towering cliffs and narrow canyons are breathtaking year-round, but during shoulder season, you’ll avoid the summer heat and crowds. The cooler temperatures make hiking more enjoyable, and the late-season sunlight casts a magical glow on the red rock formations.
What to do: Hike the famous Angels Landing, take a scenic drive through the Zion Canyon, or explore the narrows of the Virgin River.
Tip: Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground is a great spot for RVers, offering easy access to the park and full amenities for a comfortable stay.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona’s red rocks are a sight to behold, especially with the autumn sun casting long shadows and the occasional vibrant fall foliage adding a pop of color. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.
What to do: Explore the many hiking trails, visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, or take a jeep tour through the rugged terrain. You can also get spiritual vibes at the Sedona Vortexes.
Tip: Rancho Sedona RV Park offers a serene setting with plenty of shade and is just a short distance from Sedona’s main attractions.
4. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Known for its beautiful fall foliage, Shenandoah National Park offers over 200,000 acres of protected lands that are haven to deer, songbirds, and black bear. The cool, crisp air and the stunning colors of the leaves make this a prime destination during the shoulder season.
What to do: Take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, hike to the summit of Old Rag Mountain, or explore the park’s numerous waterfalls.
Tip: Big Meadows Campground is centrally located and offers easy access to Skyline Drive and the park’s popular trails.
5. Moab, Utah
Moab is the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, offering an otherworldly landscape of red rock formations and expansive vistas. Shoulder season brings cooler temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the area’s unique geology.
What to do: Hike to Delicate Arch, explore the Island in the Sky district of Canyonlands, or go off-roading on the famous slickrock trails.
Tip: Moab Valley RV Resort & Campground provides full hookups, stunning views, and is just minutes from the national parks.
6. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia is one of the most beautiful places in the U.S., and shoulder season is the best time to visit without the summer crowds. The cool, crisp air and the dramatic coastal scenery are perfect for an RV adventure.
What to do: Drive the Park Loop Road, hike up Cadillac Mountain to catch the first sunrise in the U.S., or explore the rocky shores along the coast.
Tip: Bar Harbor Campground is a great spot for RVers, offering proximity to the park’s attractions and stunning views of the surrounding area.
7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains are a year-round draw, but during shoulder season, you’ll find fewer crowds and still enjoy mild weather. The fall foliage around the lake adds to the area’s natural beauty.
What to do: Take a scenic drive around the lake, hike the Tahoe Rim Trail, or enjoy some late-season kayaking on the lake’s calm waters.
Tip: Tahoe Valley Campground offers full hookups and is centrally located, making it easy to explore both the California and Nevada sides of the lake.
Whether you’re seeking solitude in the mountains, adventure in the desert, or serenity by the water, these RV destinations offer the perfect backdrop for your shoulder season travels. Pack up your RV and hit the road—you won’t regret it
We’ll Help You Find the Best Free Camping in the USA
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours to enjoy. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: