Where to See Fall Colors Across the U.S.

Craving mild temperatures and gorgeous foliage? You have autumn on the mind, and whether you’re planning ahead or getting a late start, this article will be a useful tool in scratching that leaf-peeping itch! We tend to associate those radiant reds, fiery oranges, and golden yellows with New England, but that’s far too limiting. We want to provide RVers with a more exploratory guide for seeing fall colors across the United States, from the Pacific, to the Rockies, to the Atlantic Coast. Here are some lesser-known locations to experience the fall in full swing.

La Conner RV & Camping Resort, La Conner, Washington

The Pacific Northwest is well known for its coniferous evergreen forests, but you can still experience fall on the west coast. Located on the Swinomish Channel, La Conner, Washington is located some 70 miles north of Seattle. The town, conveniently located halfway between Seattle and the Canadian border, boasts both seaside charm and forest whimsy.

At La Conner RV & Camping Resort offers 111 acres of camping space and a gorgeous, tree-lined stretch of saltwater beachfront. The campground features picnic and barbecue areas, a playground for the kids, fishing spots, and nearby hiking trails. Luxurious amenities include full facilities, RV storage, and even WiFi. For daytime excursions, the San Juan Islands to the west are a short ferry ride away. Enjoy fall colors on the water, fishing line in hand.

Kootenai River Campground, Troy, Montana

The Treasure State offers no shortage of natural marvels: the state is home to both Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. These locations are incredibly popular (and for good reason), so we’d like to suggest something off the beaten path.

The Kootenai River Campground is located in the northwestern corner of the state, just outside the town of Troy along its namesake, the Kootenai River. It is situated right off Highway 2 for easy RV access. The campground features large RV sites, as well as cabins and tent sites. Outdoor recreational activities include fishing, kayaking, hiking, and hunting. The site is very close to Kootenai Falls, a gorgeous waterfall. Walk out along the long suspension bridge for a dramatic view of the fall foliage.

Glenwood Springs West/Colorado River KOA, Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Nestled on the western end of the Rocky Mountains, Glenwood Springs is a beautiful mountain resort town with plenty of options for activities. The town is situated on the convergence of the Colorado River and the Roaring Fork River. In Glenwood Springs, you can visit the Glenwood Hot Springs, the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, and even Doc Holliday’s grave.

The KOA campground is conveniently located off I-70 next to the old western town of Silt less than 20 miles from Glenwood Springs. The campground offers RV sites. Activities include hiking, fishing, river tubing, and more. Soak in the fall foliage from on top of the Roan Plateau and Battlement Mesa. In the fall, Colorado’s famous aspen trees change from a bright green to a brilliant golden yellow. Every mountainside is dotted with shocks of striking color.

Hayward KOA, Hayward, Wisconsin

Located in the northwestern region of Wisconsin, Hayward is a forested area around Hayward Lake adjacent to the Namekagon River.

The Hayward KOA features a 300-foot waterslide, but it may be too chilly for that by the time autumn rolls around, so you can always take a dip in the heated pool. Rental bikes, mini golf, playgrounds, and even a jumping pillow are available for family-friendly entertainment. For outdoor exploration, you can cruise along the river in a canoe, kayak, or innertube. There’s nothing like experiencing fall foliage from the water.

Doherty’s Mountain View Campground, Acra, New York

The Catskills are a gorgeous mountain range in upstate New York, famous for its remarkable geology and spectacular fall colors. The region is host to countless waterfalls, rivers and kills, and rock features such as cliffs and caves.

Nestled in the Catskills near the adorable mountain town of Windham, New York is Doherty’s Mountain View Campground. This family-owned RV site is a fantastic base camp while you’re out discovering all the wonder and beauty that the Catskills have to offer. Nearby, you can take a fairly short hike up to Kaaterskill Falls for a dramatic view, or you can head into town to visit Thomas Cole House, now a national historic site dedicated to the artist’s works and influence.

Naples KOA, Naples, Maine

Naples is located in the state’s lake-and-mountain region. Outdoor explorers can spend their day on the water boating and fishing, or on land hiking. Its central location allows RVers to take easy daytime trips along the western border. There are plenty of lakes to explore. You can also visit the Maine Maritime Museum.

Naples is also considerably close to Portland, a beautiful seaside city well known for its craft breweries, like Allagash, picturesque ocean views, and seafood. Maine if famous for its natural beauty and is often what people think of when it comes to impressive fall foliage in the U.S. Naples KOA is “big rig friendly,” allowing a maximum length of 85 feet. There’s a fully stocked general store, dogs are allowed, and WiFi is available.