Winter is the perfect time to go on the RV trip of a lifetime. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the national parks from a completely different angle, we highly recommend a winter RV vacation for you. Here are the 4 best winter RV destinations you must visit. Whether you’d like to head to the beach, the mountains, or escape the crowds, there’s a perfect winter RV trip for you.
It’s a funny thing to write about some of your best kept vacation spots and secrets, but we think it's about time to share them with the world. To tell you the truth, over the last 5 years, the winter has been our season of choice for RV vacations. The quiet roads, empty national parks, and cozy nights keep bringing us back for winter RV trips. So without further ado, here’s our ‘not-so-secret’ list of winter destinations.
1. Mammoth Lakes, CA
Located along California’s famous Hwy 395 corridor, Mammoth Lakes is one of the best kept secrets of winter RV destinations. With a year-round campground in town with RV hookups, you have the peace of mind of reserving your campsite before showing up. The city center has tons of restaurants and activities all winter long, not to mention it is right at the base of the world-famous Mammoth Mountain ski resort.
Top activities:
Ski Mammoth Mountain. The world famous ski resort has over 3,500 acres of skiable terrain and plenty of variety for everyone and every skill level.
Go on a snowmobile tour with the entire family. Mammoth Lakes has some of the best snowmobiling terrain in the world, so don’t miss out on this activity during your winter visit.
2. Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Barbara’s temperate climate makes it the perfect place to RV vacation all year long, especially during the winter months. With white sandy beaches, world class cuisine, and a long list of must-do activities, Santa Barbara is a destination for anyone’s bucket list.
Pro tip: Rent or bring your own bikes to explore the town.
Top Activities:
Tour the top surf spots. Santa Barbara is full of amazing surf breaks, so one of our favorite things to do is start from the north and work our way south over the course of a few days.
Take a stroll along Stearns Wharf. Hailed as “Santa Barbara’s Top Location,” Stearns Wharf is an absolute must-see for anyone wanting to explore the essence of Santa Barbara.
3. Florida Keys, FL
If you’re looking for a tropical vacation without leaving the US, a RV trip to the Florida Keys might just be the pick for you. With Key West, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and Dry Tortugas National Park, there is an incredible mix of exploring and relaxing to do. Our recommendation is to explore in the morning and relax during the afternoon.
TOp Activities:
Venture to Dry Tortugas National Park. Leave the RV behind and take a seaplane or boat to the most remote national park in the US.
Take a snorkeling tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the only underwater state park in the US.
4. Moab, UT
Moab is a gorgeous place to visit during the winter, especially when you explore it via RV. The contrast of the snow against the red rock is a sight to see, and the reduction in tourists is a great relief in the surrounding national parks.
Top Activities:
Visit Arches National Park. This is an amazing winter RV activity because the monuments are close together and many are visible from the road. Grab a cup of coffee and some pastries and take the family for a morning spin around the park.
Experience the view at Island in the Sky Visitor Center at Canyonlands National Park. This view is incredible and worthy of a few hours of your time. Head to the top of the mesa and explore the many different canyon viewpoints.
Keep in mind that RVing during winter can be unpredictable, so always be prepared when traveling. Make sure you have plenty of fuel and propane at all times and always check the weather along your route before traveling.
Need help planning your trip?
Our Expert RV Trip Planners can help you find an RV, campervan, or trailer in your area and take care of all the details, like itinerary planning, campsite bookings or suggestions of where to stay each night so you can keep your flexibility open, and the best places to avoid crowds. Our priority is keeping you safe and we will be with you every step of the way during your trip if anything were to happen. We can also assist you in cancelling other trip plans, like flights, hotel bookings, etc. if you need it.