If you’re rolling down the highway in an RV, chasing wide-open skies and unforgettable landscapes, there’s no better destination than a national park. These protected spaces offer some of the most scenic camping experiences in the country. From towering red rock canyons to dense forests and peaceful coastlines, there’s something for every kind of traveler. But not all national parks are equally suited for RVs. Some have limited access, tight roads, or few hookups. To make your planning easier, here’s a list of the best national parks for RV camping with epic views, and well-equipped campgrounds.
The Best National Parks for RV Camping
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is an RV camper’s dream. It’s massive, with roads that wind through forests, past geysers, and alongside rivers. The park has twelve campgrounds, seven of which accommodate RVs. Some even offer hookups. Fishing Bridge RV Park is the only one with full hookups, and it’s a solid home base for exploring. You’ll be near iconic sights like Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Just book early—this place fills up fast.
Zion National Park
Zion blends dramatic scenery with convenient camping. The towering red cliffs and narrow canyons are a feast for the eyes, and the South Campground and Watchman Campground both welcome RVs. Watchman has electric hookups, and it’s right near the park entrance and shuttle stop, which makes getting around a breeze. The roads in Zion Canyon are closed to private vehicles during peak season, so the shuttle is your best friend. Hike the Narrows, take in the views from Angel’s Landing (if you’re up for a challenge), and soak in the quiet desert mornings from your campsite.
Grand Teton National Park
Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton offers some of the most stunning mountain views in the country. It’s less crowded but just as beautiful. Several campgrounds can handle RVs, with Gros Ventre and Colter Bay being the most popular. Colter Bay has full hookups and sits on Jackson Lake, giving you front-row seats to the Tetons. Wildlife sightings here are common—moose, elk, and bears are all locals. The hiking, boating, and photography opportunities are top-tier.
Acadia National Park
On the coast of Maine, Acadia mixes ocean views with forest trails and rocky shores. It’s a rare blend you won’t find in many other parks. Blackwoods and Seawall Campgrounds can take RVs, but there are no hookups—so come prepared. Schoodic Woods, located on the quieter side of the park, does offer electric and water hookups and tends to be less crowded. You can bike the carriage roads, hike up Cadillac Mountain, and explore the charming nearby town of Bar Harbor.
Glacier National Park
If you’re up for the journey, Glacier is one of the most rewarding RV destinations in the country. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is iconic, but sections of it aren’t open to larger RVs, so plan accordingly. That said, many of the park’s campgrounds are RV-friendly. Apgar and St. Mary Campgrounds are good options with room for rigs. Expect alpine lakes, glacier-fed streams, and a landscape that feels almost untouched. Glacier is also less developed than some other parks, so it’s perfect for campers looking for a little solitude.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, this park is famous for its misty mountains, fall foliage, and rich biodiversity. It also happens to be one of the most visited national parks in the country. Cades Cove and Elkmont are two campgrounds that can accommodate RVs, and the scenic drives alone make this destination worthwhile. There are no hookups in the park, but several campgrounds nearby offer full services. Take your time driving through Cades Cove or hike to Clingmans Dome for a view you won’t forget.
Exploring national parks by RV gives you the freedom to take in the sights at your own pace and sleep under some of the best night skies in the world. Just do a little planning and choose one of these national parks for RV camping, know your rig’s limits, and hit the road.
FAQs
Can you stay overnight in your RV inside national parks?
Yes, but only in designated campgrounds. Many parks offer spots for RVs, though they vary in size, hookups, and availability. Always make a reservation if the park allows it.
Do national park campgrounds offer full hookups?
Some do, but most do not. Many RV-friendly campgrounds inside national parks only offer basic amenities like restrooms and potable water. If you need full hookups, look for parks with specific RV campgrounds, like Fishing Bridge in Yellowstone or Colter Bay in Grand Teton.
How early should I book an RV campsite in a national park?
As early as possible—ideally several months in advance. National parks are popular, especially in spring and summer. Some sites open reservations six months out, and they fill up quickly.
Can you boondock in national parks?
Not usually. Boondocking is generally not allowed inside national parks, but you can often find dispersed camping spots on nearby public land. Always check the park’s rules and the regulations of nearby national forests or BLM land.
Are pets allowed in national park campgrounds?
Yes, but with restrictions. Pets are usually allowed in campgrounds and on paved roads, but not on most trails. Check individual park rules before bringing your dog along.
Chief RV offers RV inspections and services in Southern California. Contact us to schedule an appointment.