Fall foliage RV trips are one of the best ways to enjoy the brilliant colors of autumn across the United States. Whether you’re cruising through the mountains of New England or exploring the scenic byways of the Midwest, the flexibility and comfort of an RV allow you to take in every moment. At Suncoast RV Rental, we make it easy for you to experience the season’s beauty with a wide selection of fully equipped RVs perfect for leaf peeping adventures.
Why Take a Fall RV Trip?
There’s something magical about fall in the U.S.—crisp air, vibrant leaves, and fewer crowds. RV travel gives you the freedom to chase peak foliage at your own pace, without the hassle of hotels or rigid itineraries. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a family, or with friends, RVs provide a cozy home on wheels to enjoy cool nights, warm drinks, and campfire memories under the stars.
Best Time for Leaf Peeping
Peak foliage varies depending on region and elevation. In general:
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New England and upper Midwest: Late September through mid-October
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Mid-Atlantic and Appalachian Mountains: Early to late October
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South and lower elevations: Late October to early November
Always check regional foliage forecasts, like those from state tourism boards or The Foliage Network, to time your trip just right.
Route 1: Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Known as one of the most scenic routes in New England, the Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112) stretches 34 miles through the White Mountain National Forest. You’ll be surrounded by fiery reds, oranges, and golds as you drive through mountain passes, over rivers, and past waterfalls.
Don’t miss:
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Sabbaday Falls
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Rocky Gorge Scenic Area
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Covered bridges near Conway
Campgrounds like Hancock or Jigger Johnson are perfect spots to park your RV and enjoy hiking trails right from your site.
Route 2: Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia to North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a fall foliage favorite for good reason. Spanning 469 miles, it winds through the Appalachian Highlands and offers sweeping vistas, mountain tunnels, and scenic overlooks every few miles.
Highlights:
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Mabry Mill (milepost 176.1)
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Peaks of Otter (Virginia)
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Linville Falls and Craggy Gardens (North Carolina)
There are numerous campgrounds along the parkway, such as Julian Price and Mount Pisgah, that can accommodate RVs. This route also connects to Great Smoky Mountains National Park for even more leaf peeping opportunities.
Route 3: Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers a hidden gem of a fall foliage RV trip. Take U.S. Route 2 along Lake Michigan’s northern shoreline or explore inland to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
Top spots:
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Tahquamenon Falls State Park
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Lake of the Clouds
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Hiawatha National Forest
Many state parks and rustic campgrounds offer RV access, and you’ll find fewer crowds here than in other popular leaf-peeping destinations.
Route 4: Vermont Route 100
Often called the “Skiers’ Highway,” Route 100 runs north-south through the heart of Vermont and delivers classic New England charm with white-steepled churches, red barns, and forests ablaze with color.
Points of interest:
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Stowe and Woodstock
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Green Mountain National Forest
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Moss Glen Falls
Vermont State Parks offer RV-friendly campgrounds, and local farms often have seasonal produce stands and cider mills open along the way.
Route 5: Ozark Mountains, Arkansas
The Ozark Mountains come alive with vibrant color in the fall. Take Scenic Byway 7, one of the most beautiful drives in the South, from Harrison to Hot Springs.
Be sure to explore:
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Ozark National Forest
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Buffalo National River
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Mount Magazine State Park
RV parks and state-run campgrounds in this area often offer stunning mountain views right from your campsite.
Route 6: The Adirondacks, New York
The Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York boast over 6 million acres of protected forest and lakes. With hundreds of miles of scenic byways, you can design a flexible route through the region.
Popular drives include:
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Olympic Byway
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Central Adirondack Trail
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High Peaks Scenic Byway
Campgrounds such as Lake Durant or Fish Creek Pond are ideal for RVs, and many stay open into late October for fall travelers.
Route 7: The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Smokies offer one of the longest and most colorful fall seasons in the country. Begin your trip in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and head into Great Smoky Mountains National Park via Newfound Gap Road or the Cades Cove Loop.
Top foliage spots:
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Clingmans Dome
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Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
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Foothills Parkway
RV camping is available at Elkmont, Cades Cove, and Smokemont Campgrounds—just be sure to book early, as this is a popular destination.
Tips for a Successful Fall RV Trip
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Book early: Fall is a busy time for campgrounds, especially in leaf-peeping hotspots. Reserve sites well in advance.
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Prepare for cool weather: Pack layers, extra blankets, and be sure your RV’s heating system is working properly.
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Bring a camera and binoculars: Foliage is just the beginning—wildlife like moose, deer, and birds are also active in fall.
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Stay flexible: Weather and foliage timing can shift quickly. If possible, keep your travel schedule loose and use local updates to guide your trip.
Rent Your RV from Suncoast RV Rental
If you’re ready to plan your fall foliage RV trip, Suncoast RV Rental in Tampa makes it easy. We offer a wide selection of motorhomes and travel trailers that are clean, reliable, and road trip-ready. Whether you’re heading north for a New England leaf-peeping tour or exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway, we have the perfect RV for your adventure.
All rentals include essential supplies, and our friendly team is here to answer any questions about your trip. Start your autumn road trip with confidence and comfort—visit https://www.suncoastrvrental.com to browse available RVs and book your getaway.