Your Guide to Exploring the Northeast

While many RVers like to venture west on a road trip, the beauty of the northeast shouldn’t be overlooked. The northeast may not include sights like the wide-open space of the Grand Canyon or the unique rock formations of Arches National Park, but it surely does offer something special. From the coastal cliffs of Maine to the rugged mountains of New Hampshire, here are the best places to go while exploring the northeast in your RV.

1. Cape Cod National Seashore, MA

It’s hard to believe that a place like Cape Cod National Seashore exists in New England. When you walk along the shores and dunes, you’ll feel like you’re on another planet. Nothing compares to the beauty of watching Cape Cod sunrises and sunsets as surfers catch big waves. While here, explore everything from the marshes and ponds to lighthouses and the city of Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod. Forty miles of this untouched landscape is protected, making it quite a special place. Grab some seafood before settling down in your RV at either Nickerson State Park or Wellfleet Hollow State Campground.

2. Adirondack Mountains, New York

Located in Upstate New York and covering one third of the entire state, the Adirondack Mountains are a place that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over. This area is known for its Adirondack maple syrup cabins, stunning waterfalls in the spring, and its 46 peaks, where hikers from all over come to climb. Explore waterfalls in the spring, paddle along Lake George, or complete a challenge hike, such as Indian Head and Rainbow Falls. There are also many spots to stay at in your RV, such as at Lake George Camping Village, High Falls Park Campground, and more.

3. Newport, Rhode Island 

If coastlines and cliff walks are calling your name, then take a drive to Newport, Rhode Island. Start by heading down the tranquil, 10-mile road called Ocean Drive—known for its coastal cliffs and mansion views. Then, fly kites with your kids at Brenton Point State Park, explore the stunning, 7-mile Cliff Walk, check out one of many wineries and breweries, and take a walk through the downtown area. You can camp in Newport at places like Meadowlark RV Park, Newport RV Park, and more.

4. Green Mountains, Vermont

With rural roads, quiet towns, and green scenery everywhere you turn, the Green Mountains are quite a unique place. Not only is their coffee good, they also offer so much to do for outdoor enthusiasts, beer lovers, and campers. While here, hike Mount Mansfield, the tallest peak in the state, grab a refreshing IPA at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, or enjoy an ice cream with your family at the Ben and Jerry’s original factory. If you’re staying for a few days, there are many places to camp in your RV, such as at Green Mountain Family Campground!

5. White Mountains, New Hampshire

Located in northern New Hampshire, White Mountain National Forest covers almost 800,000 acres of land and is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Known for its rugged mountains, calm flowing rivers, dense hardwood forests, and beautiful wildlife, there is so much you can explore while here. Hike the famous Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop, explore downtown North Conway, or take the scenic Mount Washington Cog Railway to the summit and highest point in the state. RVers can camp at places like the Twin Mountain / Mt. Washington KOA Holiday, Fransted Family Campground & RV Park, and more.

6. Baxter State Park. Maine

When you enter Baxter State Park, you get this feeling of being far away from the rest of the world. This remote wilderness covers 220 miles of land and is home to Maine’s tallest peak, Mount Katahdin. It’s also where the 2,197-mile Appalachian Trail ends! While here, hike the iconic Knife Edge (if you’re up for a challenge), fish, paddle board, or kayak on 1 of the 50 lakes and ponds in the park, and enjoy a long weekend of camping. RV camping is not allowed in the park, but there are RV campsites outside of the park you can stay at, such as the Wilderness Edge Campground, Abol Bridge Campground, and more.

Whether you prefer relaxing by the ocean, shopping downtown, or exploring outdoor areas, the northeast offers it all. That is what makes this area special—no matter what you want to do, there is a place that offers it. If the southeast also peaks your interest, then check out our guide on national parks to visit in the southeast as well.

See you on the road!