Where can you find the most National Parks, most temperate weather, most RV-friendly stops, (arguably) most scenic spots, and top choice vacation destinations you ask? The Western part of the United States houses it all. Reaching as far west to the coastal states of Washington, Oregon and California, and further inland to the desert and mountain oasis of Utah and Arizona; you are bound to find the road trip best suited for you.

When people think about an RV road trip, the Summer season is often associated with it. Rightfully so, as it’s got the warm weather, vacation time, kids out of school, the family’s together. Summer’s always got the fun on lock. 

We want to challenge you to think a little outside of the box this time around. Let’s reshift the focus to the Fall season. The underdog of road trip seasons if you will.

Think about it: most are so zoned in on their Summer vacay, that it leaves September – November wide open. All the popular destinations are still open, but often have more temperate weather, and less crowds. We don’t know about you, but that sounds like the perfect combo. 

Here’s our top picks of Fall destinations for your RV road trip.

 

Joshua Tree National Park

 

Ah, the famous Joshua Trees. The natural colors of the desert sand and trees paired with the prettiest blue backdrop is just so consuming. Temperatures are still pretty hot in September, but really start cooling down in October, so pick your poison. You could easily drive through Joshua Tree in a day or two, depending on how many stops you want to make. Our favorites are the Cholla Cactus Gardens, Skull Rock trail, a picnic in Hidden Valley, and a perfect stay at Indian Cove!

 

Sedona

 

Also known as “Red Rock Country” because, well, all the warm toned red rocks that cover its landscape. Sedona is such a gorgeous spot that has the perfect mix of outdoors and luxury. This is an awesome destination for families because it keeps the kids busy with all the different activities from hiking to gallery and museum tours, bike riding, or swimming. But there’s also spots for mom and dad to explore like the spas, wine tasting tours, nightlife, or golf course. This little desert town has scenic views, family-friendly trails, an eclectic, arts-centric village, and more.

 

Yosemite National Park

 

Yosemite is easily one of the most visited National Parks in the country. Which is why you should give yourself the best chance to see it in all its glory, without the crowds. Cue September! Yosemite is beautiful, always, but picture this: sequoia trees with fall multi-colored leaves, wide open meadows, crisp fall air, endless lookout points, and the best spots for starry skies. Sign us up!

 

California Coast

 

We’re pretty sure there’s no place quite like the west coast. Every inch of that coastline is breathtaking. We can feel it now: the wind in our hair, sunshine on our face, that smell of the ocean air. Even though they share the same shorefront, the sights and sounds from San Francisco to Los Angeles are authentic in their own ways. Whether you are looking to get lost in a city of people, or catch the perfect wave – the coast is where you’ll find it. We’ve got the perfect California Coast itinerary so that you can see it for yourself.

 

Moab Area

 

The ultimate nature adventure. Moab features not one, but two National Parks and it’s own lively downtown area. Arches and Canyonlands are both monsters of National Parks. By this, we mean you could easily spend a few weeks at either one and still not be able to see every corner. Between the two, you will definitely be a busy bee discovering all the arches, rock formations, hiking trails, biking and horseback riding trails, and other outdoorsy experiences. We can help you find which parts are your must see’s and do’s. Since this area is all desert terrain, the Fall season makes for the prime time to visit. You can still experience the beauty of the landscape without melting in the desert Summer heat. 

 

Death Valley National Park

 

This is actually the largest park in the lower 48 states and the lowest point in the U.S.! A group of pioneers in the 1800’s dubbed the name “Death Valley” as they assumed it would be their grave due to its vast terrain and extreme heat. But fret not, this is why you visit in the Fall. You’ll be able to comfortably enjoy the sights of its colorful and complex geology with the more manageable heat indexes (think 75° – 100° during the day and 45°-70° at night depending on the month you visit). You can walk along the desert pavement and look down into badlands-esq canyons. And catch the prettiest sunset of pink and blue hues kissing the mountains in the distance on the softest cream sand dunes. Now that doesn’t sound so “deathly” does it?

We could brag about these destinations all day, but we’ll let them speak for themselves. Check out Tumbleweed Travel Co’s road trip itineraries to find your next Fall RV road trip destination. Which place jumped off the page for you? We can also create a custom trip just for you, if you have a special place in mind!  We’ll see you out there!