The crisp air, the sound of leaves rustling underfoot, and the breathtaking colors of fall foliage make autumn one of the most beautiful times of the year. And what better way to experience it than by camping in the midst of all the splendor? While there are many places across the US to enjoy the changing leaves, some locations offer a truly unforgettable experience. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey to America’s most spectacular fall camping spots.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is known for its rugged coastline, spectacular mountain views, and beautiful fall colors. With over 120 miles of hiking trails that traverse rocky shores and dense forests, it’s a hiker’s paradise. In addition to hiking, the park is a great place to bike, kayak, or simply take in the scenery. Follow our two-day itinerary to see the best of Acadia.

Camping: There are three campgrounds in Acadia National Park, but the Blackwoods Campground is a popular choice as it’s open through mid-October and conveniently located on Mount Desert Island near the popular locations along Park Loop Road.

Blackwater Falls State Park, West Virginia

Blackwater Falls State Park in West Virginia is another must-see destination in the fall. The park is known for its stunning waterfalls, but during autumn, it becomes a paradise for leaf peepers. Visitors can hike along the Pendleton Point Overlook Trail for stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. For a unique perspective, take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain and soak in the panoramic view of the fall foliage.

Camping: The park is set around the Blackwater River and offers 65 campsites for RVs and tents. They all have electric hookups and the campground has hot showers, laundry, and a dump station. The campground is open the last weekend in April through October 31.

Emerald Bay State Park, California

Emerald Bay State Park in California is not only a popular summer destination but also a stunning location for fall foliage viewing. Located on the shores of Lake Tahoe, the park offers a unique combination of vibrant autumn colors and scenic lake views. Visitors can take a leisurely hike along the Vikingsholm trail, which weaves through meadows of aspen trees and offers fantastic vistas of the lake. Another can’t-miss location is Eagle Falls Trail, which offers views of the stunning peak of the Eagle Falls waterfall.

Camping: Emerald Bay State Park has two campgrounds: the Eagle Point and Boat-In campground. Eagle Point has 100 sites with no hookups but does have a bathhouse with showers.

Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tennessee

Fall Creek Falls State Park in Tennessee is a hidden gem for fall foliage enthusiasts. The park is home to the highest waterfall in the eastern US, but during the fall, it’s the vibrant colors of the leaves that steal the show. Visitors can hike along the Upper Fall Creek Trail for a breathtaking view of the falls amidst the colorful autumn landscape. For a more challenging hike, visitors can try the strenuous Fall Creek Falls Trail that leads to a stunning overlook of the park.

Camping: This incredibly beautiful park offers 218 campsites with water and electricity, 202 traditional sites, 16 backcountry camping sites, as well as cabins.

Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

Located in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire, Franconia Notch State Park is a popular destination for leaf-peeping. The park boasts captivating views of Cannon Mountain and the colorful trees surrounding the Flume Gorge. The park offers scenic drives and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area. Take a stroll in the 800-foot-long Flume Gorge or a bike ride through the park’s serene landscape to admire the stunning fall foliage.

Camping: Franconia Notch State Park has two campgrounds: the Lafayette Campground and Cannon RV Park, both of which offer breathtaking views of the fall landscape. The Layfayette Campground is perfect for tent camping, with 97 wooded sites. Cannon RV Park has seven full hookup sites on the north shore of scenic Echo Lake. It is open year-round, but only has electricity (no water or sewer) during the winter.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Fall is the perfect time to visit Glacier National Park. The summer crowds have dispersed, and the park’s numerous lakes, waterfalls, and glaciers are still accessible before winter sets in. Nestled in the mountains of Montana, the park’s 734 miles of hiking trails are awash with brilliant autumn colors offering a breathtaking experience like no other. While there, visitors can take hikes to iconic locales like Avalanche Lake and Hidden Lake, as well as take in the views along the scenic byway in the park.

Camping: Glacier National Park has more than 1,000 camping sites across 13 campgrounds. Many Glacier Campground is popular for its proximity to great hikes. St. Mary Campground is perfect for those who like to plan in advance because it allows reservations. It is one of the largest in Glacier National Park with 148 sites and is the best choice if you have a larger camper. This year-round campground offers showers, toilets, and sinks with running water. It’s also close to shops and restaurants that sit just outside the park entrance. There are truly so many things to do in Glacier National Park, you’re going to want to stay the full two weeks allowed at their fabulous campgrounds.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

Nestled along the Tennessee and North Carolina border, Great Smoky Mountains National Park serves as a stunning backdrop to experience the autumn colors of the Great Appalachian Valley. The park showcases an array of warm hues, from reds, yellows, and oranges, for an unforgettable fall aesthetic. Visitors can hike and enjoy spots like Andrews Bald Trail, the Cades Cove Loop, and the Oconaluftee River Trail to be mesmerized by the splendid shades. Of course, no visit to Great Smoky Mountains would be complete without taking in the stunning 360-degree views from Clingman’s Dome.

Camping: Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s 10 campgrounds offer breathtaking views of the mountains. Cades Cove and Smokemont Campgrounds are open year-round. None of the campgrounds have hookups or showers, so we always stay right outside of the park at Camp Margaritaville in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It’s only a few minutes away from the park but has more amenities than I’ve seen anywhere else.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

When it comes to fall foliage, Texas might not be the first state that comes to mind. However, at Guadalupe Mountains National Park, you can find the beautiful colors of autumn. The park boasts a variety of hiking routes and trails where visitors can witness the fall treasures and soak up the serenity of the season. Go back in time on the Smith Spring Trail and visitors can check out historic ruins throughout the park.

Camping: Guadalupe Mountains National Park has three campgrounds for tents or RVs. You can reserve sites in the Pine Springs and Dog Canyon Campgrounds six months in advance. There aren’t any hookups at the sites and both campgrounds have bathrooms with sinks and flush toilets, but no showers.

Harriman State Park, New York

Harriman State Park, located just 40 miles north of New York City, is the second-largest state park in New York and offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The park boasts 31 picturesque lakes (two with beaches), such as Lake Welch, Lake Tiorati, and Pine Meadow Lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, boating, and fishing in these pristine bodies of water. Harriman State Park also features over 200 miles of marked trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail.

Camping: The Beaver Pond campground is perfect for RVs, trailers, and tents. It has bathrooms, showers, laundry facilities, and a dumping station. Cabin rentals are available at Baker Camp and Beaver Pond Campground. And if you’re looking for a more rustic experience, you can also camp at any of the many lean-tos located throughout the park. 

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a hidden gem on the southern coast of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Fall is an excellent time to visit, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Fall foliage in the park ranges from the dazzling reds of the sugar maple trees to the yellow oranges of the birch trees. Visitors can take a scenic drive or go on a boat tour along the picturesque Pictured Rocks cliffs to experience the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Camping: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore has three campgrounds (Little Beaver Lake Campground, Twelvemile Beach Campground, and Hurricane River Campground) that are open from May 15 through October 15. Reservations are required at all three campgrounds and pets are not permitted at Little Beaver Lake. The Hurricane River flows into Lake Superior near the Hurricane River Campground’s picnic area. And it’s an easy 1.5-mile walk on the North Country Trail to the historic Au Sable Light Station. You’ll even pass some past shipwreck remnants on the way. If you prefer full hookups, the Munising / Pictured Rocks KOA is nearby.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Located in the heart of Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is the perfect destination to experience the fall season. The park is known for its beautiful landscapes, including towering peaks, lush valleys, and stunning waterfalls. In autumn, the park is ablaze with vibrant colors as the leaves of the aspen trees turn a stunning shade of gold. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive on the park’s Trail Ridge Road, where they will witness breathtaking views of the park’s fall colors. You can also explore the park’s many hiking trails, where you will be surrounded by beautiful foliage.

Camping: Rocky Mountain National Park has five campgrounds: Aspenglen Campground, Glacier Basin Campground, Longs Peak Campground (tents only), Moraine Park Campground, and Timber Creek Campground. However, all but one are seasonal and close in mid-September. Moraine Park Campground is typically open year-round, but it is undergoing renovation through 2024. If you want to stay outside the park, the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park of Estes has a large campground with great views of Rocky Mountain National Park. The town also has a free shuttle to the park’s visitor center.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park is situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The park is a perfect destination to experience fall foliage, with its 105 miles of skyline drive, which meanders through the park’s rolling hills and provides a stunning view of the fall color. The park is full of oak, birch, and maple trees, which provide a stunning show of orange, yellow, and red hues as the autumn season sets in. The park also offers many hiking trails, including the Hawksbill Mountain Trail, where visitors will witness the beautiful fall foliage up close. With mild weather and early fall peak foliage, it is truly one of the best places to visit in the USA in September.

Camping: Shenandoah National Park offers five campgrounds, including Big Meadows, Mathews Arm, Lewis Mountain, and Loft Mountain, all of which provide easy access to hiking trails and stunning vistas. You can even stay in a rustic cabin or a cozy lodge to enjoy the wilderness in comfort.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in North Dakota, is a hidden gem among the US national parks, known for its rugged badlands, diverse wildlife, and historical significance. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts who go to see the bison, elk, and pronghorns. Theodore Roosevelt National Park also offers fabulous hiking and nature trails, as well as a 36-mile scenic loop drive that takes visitors through the North Unit and South Unit, providing breathtaking vistas of the badlands, grasslands, and the winding Little Missouri River.

Camping: Theodore Roosevelt National Park has two campgrounds. The Cottonwood Campground lies inside the southern section of the park, about 5 miles from Medora, ND. The Juniper Campground is in the northern section and is about 5 miles from Hwy 85.

Yosemite National Park, California

Known for its iconic vistas and waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is a popular destination year-round. However, in the fall, the park transforms into a riot of colors as the oak, maples, and dogwood trees change their leaves into shades of red, gold, and yellow. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the park, where they will witness the stunning foliage. Fall is also an excellent time for hiking, with trails offering breathtaking views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Valley.

Camping: Yosemite National Park offers 13 campgrounds that require reservations and they are always in demand. Campgrounds in Yosemite typically start to close in October, so make sure to plan your trip in advance. Reservations are available at different times depending on the campground. All non-lottery reservations are released at 7 a.m. Pacific time and sell out within minutes. If you’re interested in securing a reservation, take some time to read the park’s tips on getting a campground reservation in Yosemite National Park. Upper Pines Campground is the main year-round campground inside Yosemite Valley and has the best access to the park’s top sights, like Half Dome, Mirror Lake, and Vernal Fall. 

Zion National Park, Utah

Situated in the heart of the American Southwest, Zion National Park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs and breathtaking views. The park is a perfect destination to experience fall foliage, with its stunning landscapes filled with golden aspens and cottonwoods. The park offers many scenic drives, including the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, a stunning 10-mile drive where visitors can witness the beautiful fall foliage. The park also offers many hiking trails, including the Canyon Overlook Trail, where visitors will witness the beautiful fall colors up close. The South Campground is a great option for RVs and tents, and the Watchman Campground has electric hookups for those who want a little more comfort.

Camping: You can camp at one of Zion National Park’s three campgrounds, including Watchman, South, and Lava Point, all of which offer stunning views and easy access to hiking trails and scenic drives. Watchman Campground is the only one that is open year-round, so you’ll want to plan in advance. Watchman and South Campgrounds are located near the southern entrance by the town of Springdale. Both have amazing views and are located along the Virgin River. If you’d like more modern conveniences there are many options just outside the national park, including the Zion Canyon Campground.

As you can see, there are many options for camping in or near spectacular National Parks or State Parks during the fall when the landscapes transform into a vibrant canvas of rich, warm hues.

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Retirement is a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a time to embark on new adventures, explore different cultures, and discover uncharted territories. Travel becomes a key component of this exciting phase, offering opportunities for self-discovery, relaxation, and creating lasting memories. However, planning your retirement travel bucket list necessitates a unique approach—one that takes into account preferences, health considerations, and budget constraints. In this blog post, I’ll delve into how and where to travel during an active retirement, ensuring a fulfilling and memorable journey.

How to Travel During an Active Retirement

Assess Your Interests and Physical Capabilities

Before building your retirement travel bucket list, take some time to evaluate your interests and physical capabilities. Consider the activities you enjoy and your fitness level. Are you an avid hiker, a history buff, or perhaps someone who appreciates serene beach getaways? If you’re traveling as a couple think about the things you enjoy doing together as well as those you may want to do separately. For instance, I love strenuous hikes and my husband doesn’t. So I plan one or two hikes on my own at each destination. Tailor your travel plans to suit your interests, ensuring an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Plan Ahead but Stay Flexible

While planning is essential, leaving room for flexibility is equally important. Weather or even health issues can impact your travel plans. Therefore, plan the key aspects of your trip, such as accommodation and major activities, but maintain the flexibility to adapt as needed. This will keep you from being overly stressed on your adventures.

Consider Slow Travel

Retirement provides the perfect opportunity for slow, immersive travel. Instead of rushing from one destination to another, consider spending an extended period in a particular location. This allows for a deeper exploration of the culture, cuisine, and lifestyle of the place, providing a more authentic travel experience. We actually lived and traveled full-time in our fifth wheel for several years and instead of rushing from place to place, we typically stayed a month in each location. It gave us a chance to really appreciate an area, rather than ticking items off a checklist.

Opt for Group Tours or Solo Adventures

Depending on your comfort level and preferences, choose between group tours or solo adventures. Group tours can offer a structured itinerary, companionship, and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers. It can also save money because meals and activities are often included. On the other hand, sometimes a tour can be tiring as you’re often on the go. In addition, you may not do all the activities you’d like. Solo travel provides freedom, self-discovery, and a chance to tailor the journey to your individual desires. We like a balance of both group tours and solo travel.

Prioritize Comfort and Convenience

In your younger years, you might have prioritized budget-friendly options. During retirement, focus on comfort and convenience. Choose accommodation that aligns with your preferences and consider transportation options that minimize discomfort and stress. When you’re working on your budget ask yourself what are the things you’re willing to spend more money on. For instance, we’re willing to pay a little more on accommodations because a good night’s sleep goes a long way towards our enjoyment of location. On the other hand, we personally don’t choose to fly first class because we’d rather save that money for activities. Again, the important thing is that you personalize your plan to suit your own preferences.

Ideas for Your Retirement Travel Bucket List

In my book, The Epic Retirement Bucket List, I cover a wide range of places to visit and adventures to enjoy. Below are just a few ideas to get you started.

See The Epic Retirement Bucket List on Amazon

1. Explore National Parks

The United States is home to 63 breathtaking national parks, each offering unique natural wonders and outdoor activities. Consider taking a road trip through Utah’s Mighty Five: Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Zion National Park.

We think that camping is one of the best ways to experience the best of the United States. If you’re traveling in an RV, then ensure you look into RV parks where you can rest for a night or two, or find other accommodation options depending on what you need. Plan ahead and you won’t get stuck with nowhere to stay on your epic road trip.

2. Discover Europe’s Rich History

Europe is a treasure trove of history, culture, and diverse experiences. Explore iconic cities like Rome, Paris, or Athens to immerse yourself in ancient ruins, world-class museums, and delectable cuisine. For many Americans visiting the beaches of Normandy has a special significance.

3. Enjoy Once-in-a-Lifetime Experiences in Scandinavia

From sleeping under the Aurora Borealis to dining in an ice palace, Scandinavia is full of unique adventures for active retirees. Everyone has seen photos of the fabulous Norwegian Fjords, but did you know that you can experience them by boat, train, or even bicycle? For avid cyclists, the Fjord Route runs through breathtaking fjords, picturesque mountains, and charming villages.

You can’t go wrong with this Finnish Lapland itinerary complete with dog sledding, snowmobiling under the northern lights, and visiting Santa Claus Village.

4. Embark on an African Safari

For an extraordinary adventure, consider going on an African safari. Witness the majesty of wild animals in their natural habitat across countries like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Botswana. Safari experiences can range from luxury lodges to more adventurous camping expeditions.

5. Savor the Beauty of Southeast Asia

Discover the beauty of Southeast Asia, known for its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, relax on the picturesque beaches of Thailand, or cruise through the scenic Halong Bay in Vietnam.

6. Experience the Wonders of South America

South America offers a fascinating blend of landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes Mountains. Visit Machu Picchu in Peru, witness the vibrant Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, or marvel at the unique wildlife in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador.

7. Relax on a Sun Soaked Island

Many bucket lists include a bungalow over azure waters in Tahiti or a stay in a white villa in Santorini. Another fabulous option is the Mediterranean island of Malta. Enjoy a day relaxing on the beach or if you’re up for more adventure, check out this list of things to do in Valletta, Malta’s capital city.

If relaxation is on your agenda, the Caribbean islands offer an abundance of serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visit places like Turks and Caicos, St. Lucia, or Barbados for a peaceful retreat filled with beachside lounging, water sports, and tropical beauty. We especially enjoy Sandals Beach Resorts couples getaway. For the Cayman Islands, we recommend Palm Heights, one of the best Caribbean snorkel resorts.

8. Cruise the World’s Rivers or Oceans

Consider embarking on a cruise to multiple destinations, providing a comfortable and enjoyable way to travel during retirement. Whether it’s a river cruise in Europe or a Mediterranean Ocean cruise, exploring the world from the water allows you to unpack only once while experiencing various locales. We’ve been eyeing one of the many Nile River cruises to add to our bucket list.

9. Treat Yourself on a Luxurious Vacation

Combine something that you love (wine, spas, etc.) and combine it with a destination you’ve always wanted to visit. One place that is high on my bucket list is Cyprus, an island country in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, it is the perfect destination for any traveler looking for a unique experience. Book your stay at one of these terrific spas in Cyprus to relax and enjoy some pampering. Cyprus cuisine is a unique blend of Greek and Middle Eastern flavors. Be sure to enjoy popular dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and halloumi cheese for a trip that will nourish your body and soul.

If you love wine, picturesque landscapes, and a touch of luxury, then there’s no better way to experience France’s wine region than staying in a chateau. The chateaus in this area aren’t just beautiful, but they also offer an immersive experience into a rich history and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. Imagine drinking your morning coffee on a balcony overlooking endless rows of vines, followed by a bike ride through quaint villages and iconic French countryside. Staying in a chateau isn’t just a unique experience, it’s a luxury experience. These historic buildings have been restored to offer the ultimate comfort and elegance, with plush rooms, fine dining, and attentive service. For those looking to indulge in a little pampering, chateaus often have on-site spas and wellness facilities, offering a relaxing escape from everyday life.

10. Go for a Long Walk

Long-distance walking trails, much like the Camino de Santiago and England’s Coast to Coast Trail, offer an immersive and rewarding way to experience the beauty of nature, culture, and history. For example, the Camino de Santiago has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. It gained significant popularity during the Middle Ages, attracting pilgrims from across Europe. The Camino de Santiago comprises several different routes, with the most popular being the Camino Francés. This route starts in St. Jean Pied de Port, France, and stretches approximately 780 kilometers (485 miles) through northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. Other notable routes include the Camino del Norte (Northern Way) along the coast, the Camino Portugués from Portugal, the Camino Primitivo, and the Via de la Plata from Seville.

Another great example is the South West Coast Path, a spectacular trail that follows the rugged coastline of South West England, covering approximately 1,014 kilometers (630 miles). Walkers encounter dramatic cliffs, charming seaside villages, and stunning seascapes along this challenging yet rewarding route. The best part about both of these trails is that you can pay a company to move your luggage each day while you spend your nights in a nice inn.

11. Take an Epic Road Trip

There’s no better way to explore the world than by taking an epic road trip. Not only will you get to soak in stunning landscapes, but you’ll also have the opportunity to experience different cultures, cuisines, and languages. Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a bucket-list destination for all road trip lovers. This drive takes you along the spectacular southern coast of Australia and offers panoramic views of the ocean.

Iceland’s Ring Road is a must-see destination for anyone seeking the adventure of a lifetime. This 1,332 km drive takes you through spectacular landscapes, including volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls. You’ll drive past small fishing villages and have the opportunity to spot seals and puffins.

And don’t forget Scotland’s most popular road trip that spans around 516 miles along the rugged and stunning coastline of the country. This North Coast 500 5 day itinerary will take you through remarkable landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, castles, lochs, and beaches, giving you a true taste of Scotland.

12. Discover Hidden Gems in Your Home Country

Explore lesser-known or hidden gems within your own country. Often, there are beautiful places, historical sites, or charming small towns nearby that we tend to overlook. Take the time to discover these hidden treasures and gain a deeper appreciation for your homeland.

Start Planning Your Adventure Today

Retirement is an exciting phase of life, and traveling during this time offers an incredible opportunity for growth, exploration, and enjoyment. By carefully considering your interests, health, and preferences, and choosing the right destinations and travel style, you can create a retirement filled with enriching experiences and unforgettable memories. So, start creating your retirement travel bucket list, and let the journey of a lifetime begin!

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