Winter is fast approaching, but fortunately, it doesn’t have to mean the end of RVing! We’ve crafted a list of 8 of the hottest (and coolest) destinations for you and your adventure crew.
Whether you’re escaping the cold or looking to frolic in the brisk snowy air, you’re sure to find a destination you love in this post!
Snowbird Stops
Chilly weather not for you? Luckily, there’s plenty of RV-friendly destinations that have warm temps and sunny skies all winter long.
1. Palms Springs, California
Among 805 date palms, Palm Springs blazes gorgeous sunshine during the winter months. Leisurely enjoy golfing on the greens, or take a dip in one of the many hot springs. Then navigate through Palm Canyon Drive to explore some of the galleries, museums, and restaurants that line the street.
Every Thursday this quaint California town hosts its Palm Springs Village Fest, where you can talk to, and purchase from, local antique dealers, artists, performers, and food vendors.
2. Tucson, Arizona
Arizona, land of the snowbirds. And for a good reason! Tucson boasts a gorgeous desert with fiery sunsets that will leave you breathless. Even in the winter, you can expect perfect temperatures during the day and sweater weather at night.
The fair-weather city leaves no shortage of hikes, ranging from easy to intermediate and advanced trails. Explore Tombstone to get a feel of the wild wild west. After meandering through this old-timey area, visit its counterpart – the Biosphere 2. The research at this facility experiments with global and scientific issues in a controlled setting, creating a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
3. Key West, Florida
This is one of the most popular destinations for RVers escaping the cold! You can’t beat the prime-time beachfront parking, so you’ll need to book your campground well in advance to get a good location. Once parked, rent a bicycle and take a relaxed ride around tidy streets lined with palm trees and sunshine. If you’re a bookworm, take a tour through Ernest Hemingway’s house on Whitehead Street.
No matter where you end up during the day, you’ll have to stop at the iconic Green Parrot for a cocktail in a root beer barrel on your way home!
4. White Sands, New Mexico
Like a snowstorm dusting its landscape, the White Sands National Monument is covered in a vast white floor stretching as far as the eye can see. It may not be fluffy snowfall, but with this vibrant white sand, you’ll get all the perks of the winter months, without the finger-chilling temps that typically come with it.
Keep in mind there are no campgrounds for RVs within the park, so you’ll need to find an alternate location in the surrounding areas.
Winter Warrior Stops
RVing in icy temps isn’t for the faint of heart. You have to deal with the chance of your pipes freezing, a chilly rig, and generators running all night in the campground.
However, if you’re bold enough to tough it out in imperfect conditions, you’ll have a near-empty winter wonderland right outside your home-on-wheels.
1. Bend, Oregon
Take a trip to Bend and gander at the majestic rock faces in Smith Rock State Park, or take your pup around this dog-friendly town. You’ll likely catch some major discounts during the off-season, which is just another amazing reason to stop here during winter!
Whatever direction you look, you’ll see mountains that are ripe for snow sports surrounding this city. To top it off, the nightlife in downtown Bend may surprise you with its delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on snuggling up by the fire to taste some of the world-class craft beer!
2. Estes Park, Colorado
Colorado’s best kept winter secret is out! Estes Park claims easy-to-drive, non-crowded roads and reasonable prices to boot. These are just some of the reasons people are hiding out in this snowy haven during colder months. This area is known for its wildlife, so once you’re worn out from skiing, you can take a winter safari tour and enjoy the serene landscape.
End your day warming up with a glass of premium whiskey in one of the distilleries, or wander the boutiques and museums for a perfect finale in a lesser-known vacation spot.
3. Oakhurst, California
Marvel at all of Yosemite’s glory with a fraction of the typical foot traffic while staying in nearby Oakhurst. This quaint city is a goldmine for stunning winter beauty. From frozen waterfalls, stargazing, and horse-drawn sleighs, you’ll enjoy the ambiance of the holidays, sans the crowds. Top off your trip with a few runs down the mountain or take a snowmobile out for a spin. This location will surely romanticize winter trips in your RV.
4. North Conway, New Hampshire
If you have kids, you’ll want to check out one of North Conway’s water parks. That’s right, we said water parks – even in winter! North Conway houses an indoor 84-degree year-around park designed especially for toddlers and small children.
After the kids are happy, shop until you drop! From November to June this town offers a tax-free shopping spree package so you can finish your Christmas shopping with ease (and discounts). There are endless activities to keep you entertained in North Conway, so grab some cocoa, hit the slopes, or wind down in one of the hot springs and enjoy the tranquility!
Do you have a winter tradition in your RV?
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