She Strengthens

Embark on the Ultimate American Adventure: Top 10 Camper Van Destinations

Are you ready to hit the open road and experience the beauty of America? Traveling in a camper van is an intimate way to explore the USA, and we’ve got the inside scoop on the top 10 destinations you won’t want to miss.

Discover the Hidden Gem of New Mexico

Camping in the desert is a unique experience, with starry nights, predictable temperatures, and minimal bugs. New Mexico offers a diverse landscape, featuring hoodoo rock formations, endless trails, and vast Bureau of Land Management areas perfect for free camping. This underrated state is a foodie’s paradise, with vibrant and affordable cuisine in every town. Don’t miss Carlsbad Caverns National Park, a stunning cave system on the southern border.

Arizona: A Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Arizona is a haven for mountain bikers, rock climbers, and hikers. With free campsites scattered throughout the forests surrounding Sedona, Flagstaff, and southern Arizona, this state is budget-friendly and perfect for year-round exploration. The town of Quartzsite welcomes nearly 2 million travelers each February, offering workshops, community events, and a sense of community that makes it the ideal place to launch a road trip.

Utah: Home to Five National Parks

Utah is a picturesque state, boasting five national parks: Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion. To avoid the crowds, arrive early and beat the tourists. Climbing Angels Landing in Zion National Park is a must-do, but be prepared for an early start to make the most of your camper van’s mobility.

California: A State of Endless Possibilities

California is so large and diverse that it’s almost unfair to mention. With vast amounts of land, finding campsites is easy, even in this popular tourist destination. Spend evenings under the famous redwood trees, enjoy picnics alongside the ocean, and explore the unique landscapes of Death Valley National Park. California offers something for everyone, from rock climbing in Joshua Tree to hiking among volcanoes in Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Minnesota: A Refreshing Alternative

Coming from the west coast, Minnesota is a breath of fresh air. Travel north to the Canadian border and take a canoe trip in the Boundary Waters. With 10,000 lakes, Minnesota offers endless fishing holes and quiet campsites by the water. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the northern lights on a cloudless night.

Michigan: A Surprising Gem

Michigan varies wildly from south to north, with pristine beaches, vibrant farmers markets, and fresh berries to pick in the summer months. Find camping all the way north to the Upper Peninsula and feast on whitefish and pasties along the way. One of the most memorable experiences is camping on the shore of Lake Superior, with dinner on a pebble beach after visiting lighthouses.

Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains and More

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park, and for good reason. Driving through Tennessee in the fall is a special treat, with rolling mountains and waterfalls dotting the landscape. Find affordable things to do, like hiking through colorful forests and climbing fire towers for breathtaking views.

New York: A State of Surprises

New York is a hard state to choose, not because it’s lacking, but because it shares many qualities with Vermont and New Hampshire. The fall foliage is incredible, with geography that ranges from Eternal Flame Falls to wineries in the Finger Lakes and watchtower hikes in the Adirondacks. Don’t miss Lake Placid Olympic village, Niagara Falls, and Letchworth State Park.

Pennsylvania: History Comes Alive

Pennsylvania turned out to be one of the most memorable states for history buffs. Spend a day taking an auto tour around Gettysburg National Military Park, bringing history books to life. Visit Eastern State Penitentiary and Valley Forge National Historic Park, and take advantage of state parks that offer free camping.

Maine: Unfamiliar Territory

Driving into Maine from the northwest, you’ll experience tall pine trees, skinny roads, and no cell phone service for miles. The setting is reminiscent of a Stephen King novel, making the trip all the more exciting. In northern Maine, the entire landscape smells like Christmas trees, with balsam fir providing the largest supply of Christmas wreaths in the country. Don’t miss Acadia National Park, where the mountains meet the ocean, and bring your furry friend along for the ride.