Taking an RV road trip in the USA is an adventure like no other. Offering the ultimate blend of freedom and comfort, an RV allows you to explore America’s vast and varied landscapes at your own pace. Whether you’re navigating the iconic Route 66 or venturing through the historic heartlands, the best road trips in the USA are those taken in an RV. Taking an RV gives you a unique chance to see the country’s most scenic backdrops while enjoying home comforts. Some of the best RV road trip routes will show you the hidden gems of the USA, from sprawling national parks to quaint small towns.
For many, the appeal of RVing lies in the flexibility. You can tailor your trip, making spontaneous stops and detours as you wish. This is perfect for those seeking an adventure without constraints. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a first-timer, these are the best road trips in the USA to explore.
Chose The Right RV For Your RV Road Trip
Choosing the right RV is crucial for enjoying the best road trips in the USA. It can make your journey more comfortable and convenient while traveling on the best RV road trip routes. The type of RV you drive should align with your travel needs and your itinerary. Class A motorhomes, for example, offer spacious and luxurious accommodations suitable for long journeys on major highways. They are ideal for families and larger groups. However, Class B and Class C motorhomes are easier to drive and
RV features like bunk beds or a fully-equipped kitchen can play a vital role in improving your travel experience, especially if you have kids or plan on cooking your meals. Certain RV features and layouts can make your RV road trip more enjoyable. Your RV’s features should complement your needs while on the road. Finding an RV rental is a fantastic alternative for those not ready to purchase their own RV. You can rent an RV and test different types and models before purchasing your own. Renting an RV can also make enjoying the best road trips in the USA more affordable.
The 3 Best RV Road Trip Routes in the USA
1. The Loneliest Road
The Loneliest Road, or U.S. Route 50, is one of the best road trips in the USA. It stretches from West Sacramento, California, to Ocean City, Maryland, on the east coast. This cross-country route is an iconic RV road trip, allowing travelers to experience the varied landscapes and cultures of 12 different states.
Starting in California, you can explore the historic town of Placerville, once a hub during the Gold Rush era. Moving into Nevada, you’ll encounter the mesmerizing Great Basin National Park, famous for its Lehman Caves and Wheeler Peak.
As you continue into Utah, the route passes close by Capitol Reef National Park, a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, and bridges. Crossing into Colorado, travelers can detour to visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, known for its steep, dramatic cliffs.
The route skirts the southern edge of the Rocky Mountains, offering spectacular views. As you travel through Missouri and Illinois, take the opportunity to visit Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest. Both have lush landscapes and plentiful outdoor activities.
Approaching the East Coast, the journey through the Appalachian region is rich with history and natural beauty. Before reaching your final destination in Ocean City, Maryland, consider stopping in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. This picturesque town is where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, surrounded by the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. This area offers stunning views and a chance to learn about U.S. history.
Each of these stops showcases the diverse beauty and heritage of the United States, making Route 50 one of the best road trips in the USA for RV travelers looking to explore the breadth of the country.
2. The Oregon Trail
The Oregon Trail, a historical journey once traversed by pioneers, begins in Independence, Missouri, and stretches to Oregon City, Oregon, covering over 2,000 miles. This RV route offers a unique blend of historical significance and stunning natural landscapes, making it a perfect RV road trip idea. As you follow this trail, you’ll pass through various states, including Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Idaho, and finally, Oregon.
Notable sites along the way include Scotts Bluff National Monument in Nebraska, a prominent landmark for travelers on the trail. Additionally, the awe-inspiring Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, which deviates slightly from the historic route, is well worth the detour. Further along, Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Wyoming is an educational destination, showcasing its evolution from an 1834 fur trading post to a military outpost in 1849. Visitors can explore restored 19th-century buildings and learn about its role in treaty negotiations with Northern Plains Indian Nations, highlighting the impacts of U.S. westward expansion.
More destinations await as you follow the Oregon Trail through Idaho and Oregon. In Idaho, the City of Rocks National Reserve has stunning towering rock formations and trails. This historical waypoint for emigrants offers climbing, hiking, and a glimpse into the trail ruts left by wagon trains.
Crossing into Oregon, the trail leads to the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center near Baker City, providing insights into the pioneer experience through exhibits and live demonstrations. Further west, travelers can explore the lush landscapes of the Blue Mountains.
This shorter route makes it a great option for those wanting to experience one of the best RV road trip routes in less time. Its rich history as a critical pathway in the 19th century adds an educational layer to your RV journey.
3. The Appalachian Trail
Established in 1937, The Appalachian Trail stretches over 2,190 miles from the rugged wilderness of Katahdin, Maine, to the serene beauty of Springer Mountain in Georgia. While it’s mainly known for long-term thru-hiking, there are ways to roughly follow its path in your RV. The hiking trail cuts through the East Coast of the United States, passing through 14 states. Driving a similar route through the Appalachian Mountains will allow you to experience some of the best small towns in the US without needing to be a talented thru-hiker.
As you trek the East Coast in your RV, you’ll encounter a variety of national parks and attractions. In Maine, you can explore Baxter State Park, renowned for its challenging hikes and the majestic views of Mount Katahdin. Moving on to Vermont, the serene woodlands of Green Mountain National Forest await, offering a peaceful retreat among ancient trees.
This iconic route also guides through the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina. It’s a stop you must take for breathtaking sights, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails to escape into nature. Plus, travelers can enjoy the stunning vistas of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. And just like on The Loneliest Road, you’ll pass through the historical Harpers Ferry in West Virginia.
The Appalachian Trail has plenty of potential stops for sightseeing, hikes, or leisurely strolls in nature. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with wildlife and boondock in untouched ecosystems. These sites highlight the natural beauty of the Eastern United States and its rich history. Even if you aren’t hiking, this region is a part of American heritage that invites exploration of both the natural world and personal limits.
Go On Your RV Road Trip
Going on an RV road trip across the United States is an exhilarating experience. With some of the best RV road trip routes, you can travel the country’s most breathtaking scenery and landmarks at your own pace. From the rolling hills and historic sites along the East Coast to the vast deserts and towering mountains of the West, the best road trips in the USA offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or new to the RV lifestyle, an RV road trip lets you linger at spots that capture your heart. So start planning, pack up, and set out on one of the nation’s best RV road trip routes.
