Tips for fantastic national park RV trips.
Ready to hit the trail? Or do you prefer paddling on a river? Well, you’ve chosen the right time to do either of those things, because 2018 is the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service’s National Trails System and Wild & Scenic Rivers System.
So pack those hiking boots and kayak or canoe in your RV and get ready to celebrate. Here are 5 tips for making the most of your National Park explorations this year.
1. Make your campground reservations now
There are also amazing private campgrounds located just outside of many national parks. These private campgrounds can offer the best of both worlds: fantastic amenities along with easy access to the great outdoors! Book your stay far ahead of time to get a decent spot. Look for RV parks near national parks here.
The Tepees at Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. Photo: LarryKnupp/Getty Images/iStockphoto
2. Consider visiting some lesser-known national parks
Huge crowds annually flock to Yellowstone and Yosemite National Park. But with over 400 national parks, lake shores, seashores and historic monuments, you can celebrate the centennial without fighting the crowds.
3. Buy National Parks Annual Pass
Senior Citizens can purchase a lifetime National Parks pass for $10 and everyone else can get an annual pass for just $80. This will get you and a carload of people into any of the National Park sites that charge an admission fee. The best part about the pass is that it may just encourage you to visit a few more places over the course of the year. Of course, the flexibility of RV travel makes this easy as well!
4. Get off the beaten loop road
Many visitors never venture far away from the loop road available at most national parks. Make sure you visit the ranger station and ask the experts for personally tailored advice, so you can experience the hidden gems and escape the crowds. Check the park calendar for ranger programs that will help bring alive the ecology and history of the park.
5. Bring all your toys!
National parks offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities including hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking and rock climbing. One of the best perks of traveling by RV is that you can bring all your gear and toys along for the journey. Fishing poles, canoes, bikes and backpacks will all be safely stored in your RV, just waiting to help you get the most out of your national parks adventure.