RV-ing the National Parks
By Michael & Kelly Moad
If you’ve ever dreamt of hitting the open road and exploring America’s natural wonders, RVing through the national parks is your golden ticket. Let’s start where it all began: Yellowstone. Established in 1872, Yellowstone was the world’s first national park, and it’s still a showstopper with its geysers, hot springs, and roaming bison.

Fast forward to today, and there are 63 national parks in the U.S., each offering unique experiences. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned road warrior, there’s a park for you. The most popular, by sheer visitor volume, is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its mist-covered peaks and vibrant fall foliage, it’s no wonder over 12 million people flock here annually.

But if you’re looking for RV paradise, Yosemite National Park takes the cake. With ample RV-friendly campsites, breathtaking granite cliffs, and majestic waterfalls, it’s an RVer’s dream come true.

Be warned, though: visiting multiple parks means a lot of windshield time. America is big—really big. Think of it as an epic road trip, with pit stops for white water rafting, antique shopping, and maybe even a surprise drive through the World’s Largest Elkhorn Arch.

As for your chariot, RVs come in all shapes and sizes. From luxurious motorhomes with all the bells and whistles to the minimalist charm of van life, there’s a rig to suit every style. Van lifers, with their nimble setups, can easily slip into snug campsites and off-the-beaten-path spots. Meanwhile, those in full-sized RVs enjoy the perks of home on wheels—everything from full kitchens to king-sized beds.

Once you park your rig, the adventures are endless. Hiking, wildlife watching, stargazing, and even geyser gazing are on the menu. Don’t miss the thrill of spotting a grizzly bear in Denali or hiking the otherworldly landscapes of Arches.

In between parks, there’s no shortage of activities. Feel the rush of white water rafting in the Snake River of Jackson Hole, shop for quirky souvenirs in small-town America, or sample local cuisine that ranges from deep-fried to gourmet.

As for us, we opted to rent our home on wheels from Cruise America for the near three week epic vacation across the Great Plains. Our notable stopovers included Rocky Mountain, Mount Rushmore, Battle of Little Bighorn, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Arches, Bryce Canyon, Zion, and the Grand Canyon National Park. An unsolicited “pro tip”: book your campsites with full hookups (water, power, and sewage) the minute the booking window opens (Yellowstone was one year out).

So pack your sense of adventure, and maybe a spare tire or two, and hit the road. RVing the national parks is the ultimate way to explore the great outdoors, one park at a time. Just remember: the journey is half the fun, and there’s always something amazing around the next bend. Adventure awaits!

[Moad5: Jun-18-2024]