If you want to avoid the parks (and the crowds), there are plenty of detours outside the major National Parks that are worth the trip. Plus, private RV parks near National Parks typically have better availability and more amenities than the National Parks themselves.
In the last few years, around 300 million people have visited National Parks annually — which can make finding RV camping tough. But what about the less trafficked nearby parks and natural areas? If you’re looking for a camping trip off the well-worn path of the National Park circuit, here are five detours that are worth the side quest.
1. Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
High up in the greater Yellowstone ecosystem in Montana sits the biggest wetlands complex in the area: Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. A convergence of multiple ecosystems — from forests to lakes, grasslands and sage-steppe — provides ample space for an abundance of wildlife.
Surrounded by mountains and far off the main road (the closest facilities are about 45 miles away), those looking to get away from the bustle of Yellowstone National Park will find tranquility and views here. The refuge is often called the most beautiful national wildlife refuge in the United States.
Plus, the area is an anglers paradise, with opportunities to catch cutthroat trout, mountain whitefish, arctic grayling, rainbow trout, cutthroat-rainbow hybrids, and brook trout.
The best time to go is the summer through fall when wildlife is abundant and opportunities for outdoor recreation abound. Kayak on the Lower Red Rock Lake (though, note swimming is not allowed), cast a line, look out for elk, or hike on the two easy hiking trails, Odell Creek or Sparrow Pond trails.
It’s not recommended to visit in the winter. Travel in the area is generally limited to dry times of year and tow trucks are upward of 45 miles away, so know your limits.
RV Camping in the Area
- There are two established campgrounds with spots available on a first-come, first-served basis: River Marsh and Upper Lake campgrounds.
- Large RVs cannot be accommodated in either campground due to limited and confined space for vehicles to turn around.
- Upper Lake Campground has potable spring water.
- Both campgrounds offer vault toilets.
- Ideal for camper vans and truck campers. It’s recommended that small trailers utilize River Marsh campground.
2. Sunset Crater National Monument
The Sunset Crater National Monument, located outside of the Grand Canyon, is rich in volcanic geological history and offers hiking through unique landscapes with views of the Sunset and Lenox craters.
While Arizona clearly boasts numerous geological wonders (looking at you, Grand Canyon), the Sunset Crater National Monument offers visitors a unique detour.
Hike through remnants of lava flows and then tour the nearby Wupatki National Monument (included with your admission), where the Sinagua people relocated to before the Sunset Crater Volcano erupted.
But that’s not all: the Sunset Crater National Monument is also an International Dark Sky Park, and the Astronomers of the Verde Valley host summer sky night events with telescopes for the public to use.
RV Camping in the Area
- The best campground nearby is the Bonito Campground, which has 22 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Motorhomes and trailers over 41 feet are not permitted and there are no utility hookups.
- All roads and spurs are paved.
3. Natural Bridges National Monument
South of Arches National Park hides a gem of a monument. As you leave Moab, you’ll be greeted by some of the most spectacular red rock scenery in the state, followed by pinyon pine and juniper forests.
Venture through Bears Ears National Monument and you’ll eventually hit Natural Bridges National Monument — Utah’s first National Monument.
The park has three natural bridges, which differ from arches by the process through which they’re formed. Bridges are carved by running water while arches are formed by seeping moisture and frost.
Cruise through the one-way loop and stop at the numerous overlooks to see each bridge. Then lace up your hiking boots and hit one of the numerous trails. Uplevel your sightseeing by taking a hike at night to witness the approximately 15,000 stars in the sky through one of the natural bridges.
Plus, if you do some stargazing, you’ll get to witness the very first International Dark Sky park certified by the International Dark Sky Association in 2007.
RV Camping in the Area
- Camping is available in the monument with 13 sites, all reservable at recreation.gov.
- Max RV and trailer length is 26 feet.
- Year-round vault toilets are available but no water or amenities at camp sites.
- Great for travel trailers, class C motorhomes, and smaller RVs.
4. Cape Disappointment State Park
This park in Washington state is a great detour from one of the area’s most popular attractions: Olympic National Forest. Cape Disappointment State Park is home to two functioning lighthouses, old-growth forests, and rugged beaches. Plus, stretch your legs on the 8 miles of hiking trails.
The views encapsulate a classic Washington state environment, without fighting crowds or venturing high up into the Olympic Peninsula.
RV Camping in the Area
- Inside the park there is one campground with around 197 campsites, 60 of which are full hookup sites. Sites are available first-come, first-served.
- Sites can accommodate RVs 45 feet or less.
- Ideal for larger class A motorhomes or larger travel trailers.
5. Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve
If you’re interested in ancient lakes that are over 1 million years old and also 2.5 times more salty than the ocean, then you’re in luck. The Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve is a detour you need to make.
Outside of the popular Yosemite National Park sits the oldest lake in North America. Known for the “tufa towers,” which are calcium carbonate spires and knobs formed by the interaction between the freshwater springs and the alkaline lake water.
This unique habitat attracts 1-2 million birds per year, making it one of the best spots for bird and wildlife viewing. The unique spires are a photographer’s dream and make the lake a stunning sight year round.
RV Camping in the Area
- Nearby campgrounds include Lundy Canyon with 36 sites, Big Bend campground with 17 sites accommodating 30 foot RVs, and Aspen campground with 45 sites with a 40 foot RV accommodation.
- Great for class A motorhomes, 5th wheels, and class C motorhomes.
The Best Part of RV Travel — The Detours
You buy an RV to see the sights, not get stuck in one place. So why not adventure off the beaten path and hit some detours near the most popular National Parks?
The best part of traveling with an RV is getting to choose your own adventure, so make one of these parks your next detour.
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