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Wondering where to road trip & camp this winter? Here are some of the best RV road trip routes, plus how to prepare for your winter journey.
Who says you can only go RV camping in the summer? Winter RV road trips are on the rise as new and experienced RVers embrace full-time #vanlife year-round. If you're looking for a winter getaway, look no further. Read on as we explore the best RV winter road trip routes in the U.S., perfect for both winter campers and snowbirds.
Winter RV Trip Routes
Tucson, Arizona
Arizona’s varied landscape offers one of the best RV trips in the West. In Tucson, winter temperatures hover around a mild 66°F in January, making it a great escape from colder regions. Campers can explore the iconic Saguaro National Park, where towering cacti stretch into stunning desert sunsets. For more mountain views, Picacho Peak State Park is a short drive away. Notably, February brings the cactus blooms and Major League Baseball’s Spring Training, adding unique experiences. Don’t miss the Pima Air and Space Museum and the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, both family-friendly attractions filled with history and desert flora.
Recommended Route: Tucson to Bisbee (104 miles one-way) – Bisbee, a historic mining town, offers art galleries, tours, and an old-world charm.
Southern California
Southern California is a dream for winter RVing, with the legendary Pacific Coast Highway stretching along stunning ocean views and warm beaches. The route from San Diego to Los Angeles is packed with coastal destinations, each with RV-friendly spots. Further inland, Joshua Tree National Park offers surreal desert landscapes and unique rock formations, while Death Valley provides breathtaking vistas, from salt flats to sand dunes. The winter season ensures cooler hiking conditions and more comfortable camping.
Recommended Route: Los Angeles to San Diego (120 miles one-way) – Don’t miss stops at Huntington Beach, Oceanside, and the historic Old Town in San Diego.
Southern Utah
Southern Utah’s five national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands—are must-see destinations for winter road trippers. Snow dusts the red rock formations, creating a striking contrast against blue skies. Zion’s famous Angels Landing hike becomes less crowded, while Bryce Canyon’s amphitheater glistens with frost. Arches National Park offers serene views of its namesake stone arches with fewer crowds, making winter the perfect time to visit.
Recommended Route: Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park (86 miles one-way) – This route includes scenic byways and quiet overlooks to take in Utah’s raw beauty.
Bend, Oregon
Bend is a winter wonderland with Central Oregon’s mix of scenic routes and winter activities. Travelers can take the short route from Bend to Sisters, a charming small town known for its picturesque backdrop. Snowshoeing, sledding, and fishing are popular here, with opportunities to explore the frozen wilderness of Deschutes National Forest. For more adventurous RVers, Mount Bachelor offers skiing and snowboarding with stunning views of the Cascade Range.
Recommended Route: Bend to Sisters (23.3 miles one-way) – Perfect for short day trips or as a base for other winter excursions.
New Mexico
New Mexico may not always top the list for winter road trips, but it has hidden gems for those seeking adventure. Taos Ski Valley boasts excellent skiing and snowboarding, while Santa Fe’s historical sites and unique Southwestern architecture offer charm and culture. White Sands National Park is a surreal winter destination with stark-white gypsum sand dunes across a 275-square-mile area. Be prepared for the colder temperatures, and ensure your RV is winter-ready.
Recommended Route: Taos Ski Valley to White Sands National Park (322 miles one-way) – A longer route perfect for a multi-day road trip through New Mexico’s scenic high desert.
Florida Keys
Florida’s tropical climate makes it a snowbird paradise, and the Keys are a perfect winter destination for RVers. Starting in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the route offers beautiful beaches, water sports, and sun-drenched scenery. Each island (or “Key”) offers unique activities—from snorkeling in Key Largo’s coral reefs to enjoying the vibrant nightlife of Key West. With numerous RV resorts, beach-front campgrounds, and state parks, the Florida Keys provide comfort and convenience for winter RVers.
Recommended Route: Key Largo to Key West (97 miles one-way) – Experience iconic locations like Bahia Honda State Park and historic sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is an iconic cultural destination, blending French, African, and American cultures in a unique melting pot. During the winter, the city is bustling with events, including Mardi Gras season, which typically starts in January. Local RV parks and campgrounds provide ideal setups for exploring the French Quarter’s jazz clubs, sampling Creole and Cajun dishes, and learning about the city’s storied past. Beyond the city, Louisiana’s bayou country offers scenic drives and wildlife spotting.
Recommended Route: Baton Rouge to New Orleans (87 miles one-way) – This short trip is ideal for immersing in local culture and traditions.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores is a top snowbird destination, with beautiful Gulf Coast beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Winter visitors can enjoy mild weather, coastal views, and outdoor activities like fishing and birdwatching. The Gulf State Park offers a large RV campground with modern amenities and scenic beach access.
Recommended Route: Gulf Shores to Orange Beach (10 miles one-way) – A short but scenic route for exploring the charming Gulf Coast towns.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a famous drive, with winter transforming it into a peaceful, snowy route with fewer visitors. Along the way, travelers can stop for mountain hikes, panoramic overlooks, and cozy mountain towns. Boone, North Carolina, and Roanoke, Virginia, are charming stops along the route with easy access to the Appalachian winter scenery.
Recommended Route: Boone, NC, to Roanoke, VA (188 miles one-way) – This route offers breathtaking mountain scenery along one of America’s most scenic drives.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada Border
Lake Tahoe is a beloved winter destination with some of the country’s best skiing, cozy cabins, and a vibrant town for après-ski activities. RV travelers can find winter-friendly campgrounds with hookups and amenities, providing a base for skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. The lake itself is a stunning sight, surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
Recommended Route: South Lake Tahoe to North Lake Tahoe (30 miles one-way) – This short but scenic route covers the lake’s most popular stops.
Tips for Planning a RV Trip Across America
RV Pre-Trip Checklist
Inspect and Test Key Systems
Engine: Check oil levels, antifreeze, battery, and other fluids.
Tires: Ensure proper inflation, tread depth, and inspect for any signs of wear.
Brakes: Inspect brake pads and fluid levels for optimal stopping power on icy roads.
Heating System: Test your furnace and any secondary heating units to ensure they’re working effectively.
Seal and Insulate Your RV
Inspect Seals: Check windows, doors, and roof for any cracks or gaps. Patch or replace any compromised seals to prevent drafts.
Add Insulation: Install insulated window covers, skylight covers, and door draft blockers.
RV Skirting: Add skirting to keep the undercarriage warmer and protect pipes from freezing.
Test Propane and Electrical Systems
Propane Tanks: Fill tanks and inspect for any leaks. Make sure regulators are functional.
Batteries: Test batteries for a full charge, as they drain faster in cold weather.
Electrical Systems: Check that your generator, power outlets, and backup systems work smoothly.
Water System Preparation
Insulate Water Lines: Use heat tape or foam insulation around any exposed pipes.
Holding Tanks: Use a tank heater if necessary to prevent freezing.
Freshwater Supply: Consider carrying an external water jug for backup if temperatures are very low.
Essential Winter RV Packing List
Winter Safety Gear
Battery Pack / Jumper Cables: For emergencies in case of a dead battery.
Tire Chains: If you'll be driving through snowy or icy areas.
Shovel and Ice Scraper: For clearing snow from tires or windshield.
Flashlight & Extra Batteries: In case of power outages or night-time emergencies.
Road Flares and Reflective Triangle: For visibility during breakdowns in wintery weather.
Windshield De-Icer Spray: Quick way to melt ice off glass surfaces.
Heating and Insulation Supplies
Extra Blankets & Sleeping Bags: Choose insulated or electric options for warmth.
Portable Propane or Electric Heater: Add extra warmth (ensure proper ventilation if propane).
Insulated Window Covers and Draft Blockers: Minimize heat loss through windows and doors.
Heat Tape or Pipe Insulation: Prevent pipes and hoses from freezing.
RV Skirting: To keep cold air out from under the RV.
Food and Water Essentials
Non-Perishable Foods: Stock up on soups, canned meals, pasta, and other easy-prep items.
Hot Beverages: Coffee, tea, and cocoa for warmth and comfort.
Fresh Water: Store extra in jugs if fresh tanks are prone to freezing.
Thermos: Keeps drinks hot for longer.
Kitchen and Cooking Essentials
Portable Stove or Propane Grill: For cooking outside if necessary.
Compact Kettle or Coffee Maker: A winter staple for hot drinks.
Extra Propane: Make sure you have a spare tank for heating and cooking.
Kitchen Towels: For drying dishes quickly in cooler temperatures.
Extra Dish Soap: Cold weather makes cleaning harder, so bring extra supplies.
Health and Comfort
First Aid Kit: Well-stocked for any winter-specific needs.
Hand Warmers and Hot Packs: Small items to keep hands and feet warm.
Lip Balm and Moisturizer: For dry winter air.
Multivitamins: To help keep energy levels up.
Clothing and Personal Items
Winter Boots: Waterproof and insulated for any cold-weather hikes or emergencies.
Waterproof Gloves, Hat, and Scarf: Essentials for any outdoor activities or repairs.
Thermal Socks and Underwear: Layer up for extra warmth.
Weatherproof Coat: Ideally down-filled or synthetic for warmth and moisture resistance.
Spare Clothing: In case items get wet or damp.
Tech and Navigation
Chargers for All Devices: Phones, cameras, and any travel gadgets.
Portable Power Bank: For backup in case of outages.
GPS and Paper Maps: If phone signal is weak or GPS malfunctions.
Emergency Radio: For weather and travel updates.
RV Maintenance and Road Essentials
Spare Tire: Ensure it’s in good condition and ready for use.
Tool Kit: For any minor repairs on the go.
Fuel Additives: Prevent fuel from freezing or thickening in cold temperatures.
Extra Windshield Washer Fluid: Keep a winter-grade formula on hand.
Entertainment and Comfort Items
Books, Games, and Movies: For cozy evenings or days inside.
Portable Speaker: For music or podcasts.
Travel Journal: Capture memories from your winter adventure.
Important Documents and Paperwork
RV Insurance and Registration: Verify winter coverage.
Driver’s License: Ensure all required documents are up-to-date.
Emergency Contacts List: In case of unexpected situations.
Membership Cards: Have cards for campsites or RV parks where you plan to stay.
The Last Word
A winter RV trip offers a unique way to experience new places, away from the crowds, with a mix of relaxing beaches and snow-filled adventures. Whether you prefer the tranquility of the desert, the snow-capped mountains, or sunny coastal escapes, a winter road trip provides memorable experiences and breathtaking landscapes across the U.S.
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