5 Warm Places to Escape to in Your RV During Winter

For some people, winter is about hanging pretty Christmas lights, going sledding, and drinking hot cocoa, but not everyone likes the cold. If you’re one of those people, then why not take your RV on a warm-weather adventure? Before you think about winterizing your RV, explore the beauty of snowless national parks, unique state parks in the south, and more. Whether you want to bring your family or take a solo trip toward the sunshine, here are a few places around the U.S. to take your RV for a warm-weather getaway.

1. Wekiwa Springs State Park, FL

Less than an hour from downtown Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park is a conveniently located, must-stop-at destination for every RVer exploring “The Sunshine State”. Begin your journey in “The Most Magical Place on Earth” before making your way to see the state park’s flowing emerald springs and jungle-like hardwood hammocks. While camping, you can view different bird species near bodies of water and in the hardwood hammocks, fish at Sand Lake, paddle along the Wekiva River, hike the Wekiwa Springs Volksmarch Trail, horseback ride on the Tram Bed Horse Trail, bike the roads, and much more.

Know Before You Go

During times when the park is busy, such as the weekend, visitors may be waiting in long lines if the park reaches full capacity. To avoid this, we recommend getting there as early as possible. Campers who already have reservations will be allowed into the park during these times. You can get into the park by paying the admission or camping fee.

Where to Stay

• Orlando NW / Orange Blossom KOA Journey – has full hookups 
• Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground – has full hookups 
• Wekiva Falls RV Resort – has full hookups

2. Big Bend National Park, TX

Known for its geological history, old settlements, and diverse landscape, Big Bend National Park in west Texas is a great destination in the winter. Not only are the temperatures pleasant, the park also offers lots of wildlife and spots to explore. With over 450 bird species, you may spot anything from painted buntings to black phoebes in the open desert or forested canyons. While here, drive down the scenic Dagger Flat Road, hike either the Chimneys Trail to view high pinnacles or the Big Bend Hot Springs Trail to see pictographs and hot springs, and spot lots of wildlife, such as mule deer and lizards!

Know Before You Go

Winter is a great time of year to visit Big Bend National Park due to the comfortable temperatures. Even though this time of year isn’t as hot as summer, it’s still important to drink plenty of water since the dry desert can leave you feeling dehydrated. Be sure to check updates on weather, safety, and conditions in the park prior to arriving. In addition, there are a few roads that require four-wheel-drive and at least 10 inches of clearance. Phone service is also spotty in the park. You can get into the park with either a National Park Pass or by buying a day pass.

Where to Stay

• Rio Grande Village RV Campground  – has full hookups 
• Cottonwood Campground  – no hookups 
• Chisos Basin Campground – no hookups
• Stillwell Store and RV Park – has full hookups 
• BJ’s RV Park – has full hookups
• Maverick Ranch RV Park  – has full hookups
• Roadrunner Travelers RV Park – has full hookups
• The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV Resort – has full hookups
• Big Bend Resort & Adventures – has full hookups
• Terlingua Ranch RV Park – has full hookups 

3. Amicalola Falls State Park, GA

Within the Chattahoochee National Forest and near the North Georgia Mountains, there is a place known for its majestic, 729-foot waterfall cascading in the forest called Amicalola Falls State Park. Amicalola Falls is the third highest waterfall east of the Mississsippi River, and it’s worth exploring if you find yourself wanting to visit  the “Peach State” this winter. This state park is also just eight minutes from the Appalachian Trail and therefore close to Springer Mountain, a popular hiking spot that offers views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Know Before You Go

If you plan on staying at the campground in the park, the road to get there has a 25% grade, meaning it may not be great for large RV campers. Be sure to come prepared with low gear for hauling. You’ll need to pay a $5 parking fee to get into the park.

Where to Stay

• Amicalola Falls Campground – has electric and water hookups

• Diamond Lure Campground & RV Resort – has full hookups

• Under the Hemlock – has electric and water hookups

4. Myrtle Beach, SC

Known for lively music and shows, exciting amusement rides, endless restaurants, and beautiful ocean views, is a fun place called Myrtle Beach. While “camping” may not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of this beachy destination, it is in fact a great place for RVers due to how many great spots there are to camp. Plus, with over 90 golf courses, 60 miles of beaches, several fishing spots, and many fun watersports, it’s a perfect spot for adults and kids alike.

Know Before You Go

Even though it isn’t likely to snow in South Carolina, the air can still feel chilly, especially at night. Be prepared with a light jacket or hoodie and comfortable walking shoes when visiting this time of year.

Where to Stay

• Myrtle Beach KOA Resort – has full hookups
• PirateLand Camping Resort – has full hookups
• Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach – has full hookups
• Hideaway RV Resort – has full hookups
• Briarcliffe RV Resort – has full hookups
• Lakewood Camping Resort  – has full hookups

5. White Sands National Park, NM

There is a special place that almost never sees snow, but instead has 297 square miles of white sand that can be explored year round. White Sands National Park is like one giant adventure park that’s a fun place for everyone. Bring or rent a sled and slide down the dunes with your family, hike the challenging Alkali Flat Trail to see where Lake Otero used to be, and experience aweing views of mountaineous landscapes, the full moon when it’s present, and stunning sunsets.

Know Before You Go

Since there is no food or water available in the park, be sure to pack plenty for your visit. Please note that taking sand from the park is prohibited. You can get into the park with either a National Park Pass or by buying a day pass. The park is open daily except on December 25. 

Where to Stay

RVs larger than 23 feet are not advised to camp at Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground due to the narrow, windy roads that campers must take to get to it.

• Oliver Lee Memorial State Park– electric sites do not have sewer hookups 
• Aguirre Spring Recreation Area and Campground – no hookups
• Alamogordo / White Sands KOA Journey – has full hookups

Although roadtrips are a common summer and fall activity, there are so many ways to go on one during the winter as well. For your own safety, be sure to monitor road conditions throughout your trip if you plan on leaving once the snow has already begun. We hope this guide sparked some ideas on how you can escape the snow this winter.

See you on the road!