As summer fades and the air turns crisp, heading south in your camper offers a chance to embrace fall RVing while escaping the chilly northern temperatures.
Autumn is an ideal season for RV travel, provided you pick the right places and pack the right stuff. Fall in the South offers especially awesome leaf-peeping opportunities, persistently pleasant weather, and epically awesome outdoor activities. Many Southern beaches are also spectacular locales to keep the warm weather with you while beating the crowds of busier waters.
That’s why we put together this guide with the top tips and places to go RVing this fall. Dig in for essential fall RVing tips and sample itineraries to some of the best southern destinations.
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Making the Most of Fall RVing in the South
The South is packed with many fun characteristics that make it the place to be when RVing in the fall. Here are tips to make the most of your time there:
Embrace the Scenic Drives
Because Autumn is all about the colors, leaf-peeping routes are the way to go. The South has no shortage of breathtaking scenic drives. From the vibrant reds and oranges of the Blue Ridge Parkway to the majestic peaks at Smoky Mountains National Park, take the side roads to meander along the foliage.
Slow down, take the backroads, soak in the views, and don’t hesitate to pull over at overlooks for photos or a picnic.
Attend Local Fall Festivals
Many southern towns celebrate the fall harvest with festivals ranging from pumpkin patching and apple picking to craft fairs and live music. These events offer a great opportunity to taste local produce, meet friendly Southerners, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
The South also has a rich tradition of Oktoberfests, especially in areas like Texas Hill Country and the Appalachian Mountains. And few things in life are finer than enjoying a craft beer or handmade wine with a fall backdrop.
When you roll through here, be sure to visit us at Outdoorsy Hill Country, a luxury glamping retreat in the heart of this part of Texas.
Explore Outdoor Activities
Cooler fall temperatures make for perfect hiking and biking conditions. Many Southern national and state parks offer trails ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, and mountain biking opportunities abound in the South.
Discover the best hikes for leaf peeping in every state
In the South, you don’t have to pack away your kayak or fishing gear just yet. Fall can be an ideal time for water activities in the South, with fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures. Paddle through quiet rivers surrounded by colorful trees, or try your luck at fishing in one of the region’s many lakes or coastal waters.
See why hunting, fishing, and RVing go hand-in-hand
Savor Fall Foods
Many southern regions pride themselves on farm-to-table cuisine, which is especially abundant during harvest season. Seek out local restaurants that feature seasonal menus, or visit farmers’ markets along your route to pick up fresh ingredients for a campfire-cooked meal.
Fall is the season for hearty, comforting foods. Be sure to indulge in the season’s flavors, whether it’s a bowl of chili, a slice of pumpkin pie, or roasted marshmallows by the campfire. Cooking outdoors with your RV’s kitchen or over a campfire adds a special touch to your meals.
Colorful Photos
Fall’s vibrant colors and soft lighting create perfect conditions for photography. Keep your camera handy to capture the changing leaves, misty mornings, and golden sunsets.
Ghost Tours and Haunted Attractions
The South is rich in history and folklore, making it a great place to explore haunted sites. Many towns offer ghost tours, particularly around Halloween.
Stargazing
With the cooler, clearer skies of fall, stargazing becomes an enchanting evening activity. Bring a telescope or simply lay back and enjoy the view at a dark-sky campground.
See our guide to Stargazing this fall
Campfire stories
Gather around the campfire and share spooky stories or reminisce about past travels. The crackling fire and crisp air create the perfect setting for a memorable evening.
Read about family-friendly ghost stories to tell in the dark
Connect with Fellow RVers
Many campgrounds host fall-themed events, from potluck dinners to nature walks. Participating in these activities can enhance your experience and provide a sense of community, even if you’re far from home.
Essential Tips for Fall RV Travel
- Plan for Shorter Days — fall brings shorter daylight hours, so plan your driving and activities accordingly. Aim to reach your destination before dusk to set up your campsite in daylight.
- Prepare for Weather Variability — While the South generally enjoys milder fall weather, temperatures can vary significantly, especially in mountainous regions. Pack layers of clothing to stay comfortable in fluctuating conditions.
- Winterize Your RV as Needed — If you’re traveling from a colder climate, ensure your RV is winterized to prevent damage from freezing temperatures. Even in the South, nights can dip into freezing, especially in late fall.
- Check Campground Availability — Fall is a popular time for camping in the South, so book your campsites in advance. Some RV parks may have limited availability or reduced services as it gets colder, so always call ahead.
- Be Aware of Wildlife — Fall is an active time for wildlife, especially in national parks and forested areas. Keep a safe distance when camping and always be on the lookout when driving.
P.S. Wildlife viewing opportunities are spectacular in The South. Here are the top places to view wildlife in Florida.
Keeping Warm While Fall RVing
Even when traveling south, fall nights can be chilly. Here are some tips to keep you cozy during your fall RV adventure:
- Layer your clothing — Dress in layers to quickly adjust your warmth as temperatures change throughout the day. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer layer.
- Use a space heater — A small, portable space heater can be a splendid supplement to your RV’s primary heater. Read up on electricity basics of your RV to ensure you don’t blow a breaker.
- Insulate your RV — Add extra insulation to your windows and doors to keep the cold out. Reflective insulation panels or thermal curtains can help maintain warmth inside your RV.
Check out our guide to winter camping for more details. - Warm bedding — Invest in high-quality, warm bedding. Consider packing in a heated mattress pad to ensure a comfortable night’s sleep.
- Hot beverages and comfort food — fall’s the time to indulge in some calorie-rich comfort food, an extra cup o’ coffee, and hot cocoa on the regular. It’s as tasty as it is practical.
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Sample Itineraries for fall RV Travel in The South
The South offers a huge range of possible itineraries for RVing. Here are some of the most popular:
1. Blue Ridge Parkway: Virginia to North Carolina
- Start: Shenandoah National Park, VA
- End: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC
- Highlights: Skyline Drive, Mabry Mill, Mount Mitchell State Park, and Clingmans Dome.
- Activities: Hiking, scenic drives, and exploring small mountain towns.
- Tips: The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned for its fall foliage. Take your time to enjoy the overlooks and stop at local farms for fresh apples and cider.
2. Gulf Coast Adventure: Alabama to Florida
- Start: Gulf Shores, AL
- End: Destin, FL
- Highlights: Gulf State Park, Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, and Henderson Beach State Park.
- Activities: Beachcombing, fishing, and exploring historic forts.
- Tips: The Gulf Coast enjoys warm weather well into the fall. Avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the pristine beaches and seafood without the heat.
3. Texas Hill Country: Austin to Fredericksburg
- Start: Austin, TX
- End: Fredericksburg, TX
- Highlights: Pedernales Falls State Park, Enchanted Rock, and Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.
- Activities: Wine tasting, hiking, and exploring charming small towns.
- Tips: The Texas Hill Country is famous for its wineries and German heritage. Visit during Oktoberfest for a festive experience in Fredericksburg. Stay at Outdoorsy Hill Country for an epic glamping experience.
4. Lowcountry Route: Charleston to Savannah
- Start: Charleston, SC
- End: Savannah, GA
- Highlights: Angel Oak Tree, Beaufort, SC, Hunting Island State Park, and Wormsloe Historic Site.
- Activities: Touring historic plantations, kayaking through marshlands, and enjoying southern cuisine.
- Tips: The Lowcountry offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy the mild fall weather and fewer tourists as you explore this coastal region.
5. Ozark Mountains: Arkansas to Missouri
- Start: Hot Springs, AR
- End: Branson, MO
- Highlights: Hot Springs National Park, Buffalo National River, and Table Rock Lake.
- Activities: Hiking, fishing, and attending live shows in Branson.
- Tips: The Ozarks are a hidden gem for fall foliage, with fewer crowds than more famous leaf-peeping destinations. Explore the scenic byways and discover quaint mountain towns.
6. Florida Keys: Miami to Key West
- Start: Miami, FL
- End: Key West, FL
- Highlights: Biscayne National Park, Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Bahia Honda State Park, and the Southernmost Point in Key West.
- Activities: Snorkeling, fishing, visiting state parks, exploring historic sites, and enjoying tropical cuisine.
- Tips: The Florida Keys offer warm, tropical weather well into the fall. Drive the Overseas Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. Stop at the various islands (or “keys”) along the way to experience the unique charm and natural beauty of each one.
And here’s our guide to RV parks in the Florida Keys
7. Georgia Coast: Savannah to St. Simons Island
- Start: Savannah, GA
- End: St. Simons Island, GA
- Highlights: Savannah Historic District, Wormsloe Historic Site, Tybee Island, Jekyll Island, and St. Simons Island.
- Activities: Exploring historic sites, beachcombing, kayaking, bird watching, and enjoying southern cuisine.
- Tips: The Georgia coast is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a perfect fall destination. Start your journey in the historic city of Savannah, known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and moss-draped oaks. Take a side trip to Tybee Island for beach time before heading south to explore the Golden Isles. Jekyll Island offers quiet beaches and fascinating history, while St. Simons Island is known for its charming village and picturesque lighthouse.
Traveling south during the fall in your RV is a fantastic way to enjoy the season’s beauty while exploring some of the southern U.S.’s best destinations. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, your autumn RV trip will be filled with memorable experiences.
Whether you’re chasing fall colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway or soaking up the sun on the Gulf Coast, these itineraries and tips will help you make the most of your journey.
