TMTM

AlenaMozhjer/istockphoto

Cheapism is editorially independent. We may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site.
AlenaMozhjer/istockphoto

Capital Camping

We realize it's early, but if you're anything like us, you're already dreaming about where you'll point your RV to when the weather starts to improve. And if you want to get a prime spot in a near-perfect park, you have to start thinking about making those arrangements now. To help you plan, we looked at RV park reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, Campground Reviews, Good Sam, and a few other sites to find out which campgrounds RV owners consistently rave about. From resort-like properties where you can get a massage or take a dip in a heated pool to out-of-the-way spots surrounded by nature, here are the parks that caught our eye in each state, which was our runner-up, and our recommendation for when you should be ready to put that big-rig rubber to the road. 

Related: 50 Budget-Friendly RV Campgrounds 

TripAdvisor

Alabama: Gulf State Park Campground

Gulf Shores
This RV park is so beloved that it consistently scores five-star reviews, and TripAdvisor has given it the coveted Certificate of Excellence. It's praised for the usual things campers love about well-appointed parks — modern restrooms, clean facilities, full hookups — but also for its many amenities, which include a pool, splash pad, tennis and pickle ball courts, horseshoes, volleyball, a nature center, and ongoing weekly activities. It's also a short jaunt to the white sand beaches of the Gulf Shore. If you're in love with the area and looking for another park nearby, RVshare's guide to rentals in the area also mentions Island Retreat RV Park.

When to book: Late spring or early fall see still-warm temperatures that don't rise into the summer months' highs of around 90. Daily rates stay pretty much the same no matter when you go.

Runner-up: All About Relaxing RV Park, Theodore

Related: 40 RV Retirement Spots for Snowbirds

TripAdvisor

Alaska: Diamond M Ranch Resort

Kenai
The Diamond M Ranch scores highly with Good Sam and Campground Reviews users, who say it has spacious sites, a friendly staff, and beautiful views of the Kenai Peninsula. There are campfire socials on Wednesday nights and potlucks on Saturdays during the summer, and you can also book farm tours and guided hikes.

When to book: It's Alaska, so you already knew we were going to say summer. Anytime between May and October is a great time to get some salmon fishing in on the Kenai River, which the RV park has direct access to via a 3/4-mile trail. The park's owners note on their TripAdvisor page that July 10-31 the river opens to Alaska residents for dip netting, so plan your trip around that if you don't want the competition.

Runner-up: Chugach State Park, Eagle River

Related:These Are the Biggest RV Parks in America

TripAdvisor

Arizona: Meteor Crater RV Park

Winslow
Why stand on a corner in Winslow, Arizona, when you can park your rig at Meteor Crater? There you'll find 71 "big-rig friendly" pull-through RV spaces with full hook-ups, gated entry, private restrooms with showers, laundry facilities and a rec room, playground, free Wi-Fi, a country store, and dog park. They even think of the little things here like complimentary coffee and books and DVDs for bored kids.

When to book: If you want to avoid scalding hot summers and cold-snap winters in Winslow, think late spring and early fall. The annual Standin' on a Corner Festival — because of course they do one! — happens in September and features a beer garden, horseshoe tournament, and food and merchandise vendors.

Runner-up: Lazy Days KOA, Tucson

TripAdvisor

Arkansas: Catherine's Landing

Hot Springs
A stay at Catherine's Landing presents the best of both worlds: Spend a peaceful day kayaking on Lake Catherine or hiking nearby trails while trying to peep an armadillo; or head into happening Hot Springs, where you can hit the casinos, catch the horse races, or spend a day getting pampered at the city's famed Bathhouse Row spas. Campers say there's plenty to do at the resort, though, and it has clean facilities and "excellent" internet.

When to book: U.S. News & World Report saysthe best time to visit this part of the country is "August to October and February to April" — especially if you want to be on the water. 

Runner-up: Tom Sawyer's Mississippi River RV Park, West Memphis

TripAdvisor

California: Bakersfield RV Resort

Bakersfield
This Bakersfield park gets perfect scores from Good Sam's annual Triple Rating System for its facilities, restrooms, and general appeal, and those on Campground Reviews appreciate its cleanliness, spacious sites, and the efficiency of the folks who run it. It also has a pool and onsite restaurant.

When to book: It gets pretty hot in Bakersfield during the summer, so skirt that heat by planning a trip around the town's annual Village Fest in September, which features beer, wine, food, and music.

Runner-up: Paradise By the Sea RV Resort, Oceanside

TripAdvisor

Colorado: Mesa Verde RV Resort

Mancos
One of the Centennial State's most popular campgrounds, Mesa Verde RV Resort is an apt place from which to explore the nearby national park of the same name. The resort is known for its immaculate bathrooms, and one Campground Reviews user notes that "the folks who own and care for the facility are super nice, relaxed and take fabulous care of the grounds." There's not a ton else going on in the tiny town of Mancos, but the Mancos Brewing Company is a well-regarded place to grab a bite to eat and a local brew.

When to book: There is no better time to visit southwest Colorado than summer, and the nearby mountain town of Durango offers plenty to do all season long.

Runner-up: Pagosa Springs RV Park, Pagosa Springs

TripAdvisor

Connecticut: Seaport RV Resort & Campground

Mystic
This gated resort in the seaside town of Mystic is popular for the many family-friendly amenities it offers, including a heated swimming pool, mini-golf, playground, game room, and much more. There's also plenty to do in town and the surrounding area, including lighthouse tours, a seaport museum and aquarium, or just enjoy exploring the boutiques and restaurants of Mystic's historic downtown area.

When to book: Anytime between May and October. Consider going in June for the Taste of Mystic festival, or in July for the Antique & Classic Boat Rendezvous & Parade.

Runner-up: Witch Meadow Lake Family Campground, Salem

©TripAdvisor

Delaware: Massey's Landing

Millsboro
Massey's has a private beach, a pool, a tiki bar and cafe, dog park, arcade, well-stocked camp store, and more. There are plenty of RV sites, as well as cottages and safari tent camping. TripAdvisor reviewers sing this place's praises, but also acknowledge that it can be a bit pricey — sites start at about $90 per night in summer. Discounts are available, however, for AAA, Good Sam's, and military.

When to book: With all the nearby water activities, it'd be a shame not to go when it's warm enough to hop on a paddleboard or a kayak. Not a water lover? Head to Millsboro in September for the Southern Delaware Wine, Food & Music Festival.

Runner-up: Delaware Seashore State Park, Rehoboth Beach

©TripAdvisor

District of Columbia: Cherry Hill Park

Millersville, Maryland 

This may be a destination when you're visiting monuments and buildings in D.C., but don't overlook the pool, playground, and nature trail.
When to Book: If you're going during the summer (June through August are the busiest and hottest times to visit the nation's capital), reserve as soon as you know you're headed there.

Runner-up: Chesapeake Bay RV Resort, Gloucester, Virgina

©TripAdvisor

Florida: Compass RV Park

St. Augustine
Located in this historic southern Florida city, Compass has nearly 200 RV sites spread out over three areas: The Grove, The Pond, and the newest spot, The Oasis. It also has a heated saltwater pool, playground, two dog parks, and a community bonfire area. The park hosts regular events such as Wednesday Group Walks, Thursday Morning Coffee Hours, and Friday Night Campfires.

When to book: In mid- to late March there is a lot going on in St. Augustine, including the Celtic Music & Heritage Festival and the Lions Seafood Festival . Weather-wise, expect highs in the mid-70s with lows dipping to the mid-50s.

Runner-up: Kissimmee South RV Resort, Davenport

©TripAdvisor

Georgia: Coastal Georgia RV Resort

Brunswick
Coastal Georgia has overwhelmingly positive feedback on Campground Reviews, receiving high marks for its clean facilities, paved roads, and well-maintained landscaping. It offers 105 sites, most with full hookups, plus two bathhouses, two laundry facilities, a camp store, and a swimming pool, horseshoe pits, and shuffleboard courts.

When to book: May and September are the most comfortable months, although the weather is good in this part of Georgia year-round, and even summertime highs rarely rise above the low 90s. In mid-May, the community hosts a two-day "Blessing of the Fleet" celebration that it says is "one of the best that Coastal Georgia has to offer with fresh seafood, local culture, boating, water sports, the shrimping industry, arts, crafts and variety of leisure activities."

Runner-up: High Falls State Park, Jackson

7Michael/istockphoto

Hawaii: Waianapanapa State Park

Hana
The Aloha State isn't known for an abundance of RV parks, but it has some state and federal parklands that are well-regarded. At Maui's Waianapanapa, you can camp in a campervan in a specified area, and from there explore the area's freshwater caves, black volcanic sand beaches, anchialine pools, and more.

When to book: The spring and fall shoulder seasons — April/May and September through November — offer the best weather without huge crowds. If you go in the spring, you can catch Maui's Taro Festival or the Steel Guitar Festival.

Runner-up: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii Island

©TripAdvisor

Idaho: Mountain Home RV Park

Mountain Home
This RV park around an hour southeast of Boise is home to spacious sites, a lovely, mature landscape, and modern, clean bathhouses, according to its guests. For amenities of the more fun variety, it offers a playground and basketball court, exercise room, pool and spa (with a nightly adult swim time), and an off-leash dog park. It's also near the Bruneau Dunes, where you can hike, go horseback riding, rent a sandboard, or catch bluegill in the nearby lakes.

When to book: Visit between late March and mid-October when you can check out one of the Bruneau Dune's Observatory nights on Fridays and Saturdays.

Runner-up: Ambassador RV Resort, Caldwell

Related: 16 RV Parks Your Pooch Will Love as Much as You

Double J Campground/Yelp

Illinois: Double J Campground

Chatham
With 120 full-hookup sites and both indoor and outdoor on-site activities, the Double J is well regarded for its friendly staff, clean facilities, spacious roads, and level sites. One reviewer noted that the owners "take pride in their park and it shows."

When to book: Summertime, when average temps are in the mid-70s. There's plenty to do in the area, including the Lincoln Library & Museum and the Knights Action Park and Splash Kingdom. Or, wait until late September to hit the International Route 66 Mother Road Festival in Springfield.

Runner-up: Galesburg East Campground, Knoxville

©TripAdvisor

Indiana: Follow the River Resort

Florence
Follow the River's website notes that it's rated in the top 300 U.S. RV parks out of more than 12,000 by Trailer Life Directory, and reviewers don't disagree, noting the park's peacefulness, friendly and accommodating staff, and large, level sites with plenty of nearby room for kids and pets to run around. There's also a jumping pillow, heated pool, fishing lake, and horseshoe pits.

When to book: Go in late August to catch the annual Swiss Wine Festival with lots of live music and, of course, wine; or if you're a racing fan, for July's NASCAR Weekend at the Kentucky Speedway (located about 15 minutes from Florence in Sparta, Kentucky).

Runner-up: Elkhart Campground, Elkhart

©TripAdvisor

Iowa: On-Ur-Wa RV Park

Onawa
"Quiet, peaceful, friendly, not overcrowded" notes one Campground Reviews assessment, which is pretty typical of what most say about this park. What those standard reviews often don't mention are the gorgeous mature trees between sites, the 10-star bathroom facilities (rated by Trailer Life and Good Sam), and recreational features like horseshoes, bocce ball, and more. The park is open April through October.

When to book: The Monona County Fair, happening in mid-July, is a wonderful example of an old-fashioned rural fair, complete with talent shows, tractor pulls, an ATV rodeo, and a demolition derby. Or go earlier in mid-June to check out the three-day Lewis & Clark Festival, which celebrates early American heritage.

Runner-up: Lazy Acres RV Park, Center Point

©TripAdvisor

Kansas: Deer Creek Valley RV Park

Topeka
Looking to get away from it all in the Sunflower State? One reviewer noted that RV camping at Deer Creek Valley "feels like camping in the Kansas wilderness — with amenities." Those include a 20-by-40-foot pool, playground, and fenced pet play area as well as free cable and Wi-Fi, security gate, and clean bathroom and laundry facilities. You're also close to Lake Shawnee, where you can fish, bike, hike, boat, and ride jet skis.

When to book: Country music fan? The annual Country Stampede happens in July. But if you crave a more peaceful vacation, go anytime but then, as the music festival brings in attendance of around 200,000. Late May and early June offer the best weather.

Runner-up: Gunsmoke RV Park, Dodge City

©TripAdvisor

Kentucky: Cave Country RV Campground

Cave City
All sites at this park are big-rig friendly — level and pull-through. They also offer full hookups, free Wi-Fi and cable (both noted "excellent" by one reviewer), and tables and fire pits. The verdant grounds feature a fenced dog park, clubhouse, and pavilion. And if you've had enough of the great outdoors, head inside to the game and fitness room where you can watch TV, shoot pool, or get a workout in.

When to book: Temperatures rarely rise above 90 in this action-packed Kentucky town, which offers plenty to do in the realm of outdoor recreation, geological and archeological exhibits, and plenty of antique shops and flea markets. Even if they do, you can always escape to Mammoth Cave National Park, where it's always a cool 54ish degrees. To avoid throngs of tourists, go in late spring or early fall.

Runner-up: Whispering Hills RV Park, Georgetown

©TripAdvisor

Louisiana: Reunion Lake RV Resort

Ponchatoula
Reunion Lake isn't cheap, but then what would you expect from a campground that features its own water park? It also has a perfect 10-10-10 rating from Good Sam, and one TripAdvisor reviewer noted that they wished every RV park was like Reunion Lake. If less-raucous water sports are your thing, note that you can also rent stand-up paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks, catch and release in the adjacent lake, or just float in the resort's lazy river.

When to book: In late spring and summer, Reunion Lake packs its schedule with events that RVers might find fun, including a car show, "Through the Decades" week, "Christmas in July" week, and much more.

Runner-up: Lakeside RV Park, Livingston

©TripAdvisor

Maine: Sandy Pines Beach Campground

Kennebunkport
If you're looking to be surrounded by the Pine Tree State's, well, pine trees, then Sandy Pines is the campground for you. In addition to RV sites, it offers a number of "unique retreats," including covered wagons, a glass house, and an Airstream. Reviewers also note its clean bathrooms (with "unbelievable" water pressure), level sites, and easily accessible hookups.

When to book: For our money, we're betting the park's Vintage Camping Weekend in June is a scream. The festivities will include a vintage camper tour, potluck supper, group bonfire, corn hole tournament, and more. The campground offers plenty of other themed weekends during the spring, summer, and fall, so take your pick.

Runner-up: Old Orchard Beach Campground, Old Orchard Beach

Katie D./Yelp

Maryland: Cherry Hill Park

College Park
Cherry Hill is a great place to come back to after exploring busy Washington, D.C. — something the resort makes easy for you with both tours and shuttles into the city, as well as daily sightseeing sessions that can help you narrow down what you want to see while there. Once you're back at the resort, relax in one of two solar-warmed pools, take the kids to the splash park, or grab a bite to eat at the park's Star Cafe.

When to book: Go in the summer, when you can take full advantage of the resort's other amenities, which include tractor rides, movie nights, mini-golf, gem mining, a fishing pond, and much more.

Runner-up: Elk Neck State Park, North East

©TripAdvisor

Massachusetts: Normandy Farms Campground

Foxboro 
"This was the best RV park we've ever stayed at," enthused one TripAdvisor reviewer, who, like others, noted Normandy Farms' spacious sites, "gorgeous and well-maintained" grounds, and enough amenities and activities to keep campers entertained. These include indoor and outdoor pools, yoga classes, a wellness center offering massages, movie rentals, dog daycare, and more. The park's activities calendar is also jam-packed with events.

When to book: If you're planning on making the short drive to Boston (about an hour), plan for early fall, when not only will the tourist crowds have faded and mid-day temps hover around 60 to 70 degrees, but events like the Phantom Gourmet Food Festival and Oktoberfest make for great eating, drinking, and people watching.

Runner-up: Boston Minuteman Campground, Littleton

©TripAdvisor

Michigan: Traverse Bay RV Resort

Williamsburg
Reviews across the board for Traverse Bay are glowing, with many patrons noting well-manicured landscaping, spotless bathrooms and laundry facilities, large sites, and friendly and accommodating staff. It doesn't hurt that the park is located in what TripAdvisor calls a "four-season playground … now celebrated for quality cuisine, wine and culture."

When to book: Four-season it may be, but to get the most out of your time at Traverse Bay, head there in the summertime, when temperatures reach into the sunny 70s and you can paddle, swim, sail, and hike between touring lighthouses, wandering through romantic and historic coastal villages, or just meandering along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Runner-up: Petoskey RV Resort, Petoskey

©TripAdvisor

Minnesota: Stony Point Resort

Cass Lake
Stony Point has an outdoor lake with sandy beaches, walking trails, a fishing pond, playgrounds, boat and other watercraft rentals, and — in case you just need to get away from other campers — it's right next to the Chippewa National Forest, where you can hike or bike the Migizi Trail. And, if cleanliness and maintenance are more your concern, this park gets perfect triple 10s from Good Sam.

When to book: This is mega-lake country (there are nine lakes in the Cass Lake Chain), so of course the best time to visit is in the summer when you can take advantage of all that the water has to offer (and the resort is only open May 1-Oct. 15). The area hosts a number of festivals in mid-summer, including the Leech Lake Indian Reservation's (on which the resort is located) annual Pow Wow, a Dragon Boat Festival, and the Moondance Jam.

Runner-up: Kiesler's Campground & RV Resort, Waseca

©TripAdvisor

Mississippi: EZ Daze RV Park

Southaven
Immaculate, modern, tidy, and manicured are adjectives that show up again and again in EZ Daze reviews. Located near Memphis, Tennessee, this park is perfect for people who like a little comfort and convenience with their camping. Its paved roads, concrete pads, and grass aplenty make many of its patrons happy. "If I had known about this park, I would never have stayed anywhere else in Memphis," one Google reviewer noted.

When to book: The Memphis area can get pretty steamy is the height of summer, so shoot for April/May or October/November. The Beale Street Music Festival takes place at the end of April, or check out the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest.

Runner-up: Sunroamer's RV Resort Park, Picayune

Big Creek RV Park/Yelp

Missouri: Big Creek RV Park

Annapolis
Show Me State campers love Big Creek, with its 65 full-hookup sites. Families, in particular, note that with a playground, pool, and creek, there is plenty to keep kids entertained when not checking out all that the area has to offer. There are multiple state parks nearby, as well as the Fort Davidson and Missouri Mines state historical sites, Black River, and plenty of hiking opportunities in Mark Twain National Forest. Wine lover? The park is also near the Ste. Genevieve Wine Trail.

When to book: Missouri summers can scorch the best-laid vacation plans, so book this park from mid-April to mid-June or mid-August to early November.

Runner-up: Lazy Day Campground, Danville

©TripAdvisor

Montana: Nugget RV Park

St. Regis
Surrounded by Big Sky Country's majestic mountain ranges, as well as Clark Fork and St. Regis rivers, Nugget RV Park's scenery is enough to get campers in the door. But it has plenty of amenities, too, including a clubhouse packed with games, pool, and books, 2 miles of walking trails, a playground, pool, espresso bar, and more. It's also well maintained and clean, with a perfect Good Sam ratings to prove it. As one enthusiastic Google review stated: "Fantastic park! Awesome staff! Greeted us like family! Super clean!"

When to book: If you love vintage campers, Nugget hosts the Runamucks Vintage Trailer Rally in the fall. Or if flea market finds are more your style, the massive St. Regis Flea Market will be happening in May. Whenever you go, be sure to check out some of the area's many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Runner-up: Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park & Cabins, West Yellowstone

©TripAdvisor

Nebraska: Victorian Acres RV Park

Nebraska City
Nebraska might not be the first place to come to anyone's mind when an RV adventure is in the works, but if you happen to find yourself in this town tucked into the state's eastern edge, you'll have a couple of stellar options (note our runner-up is also located in Nebraska City). Victorian Acres is well-regarded for its level sites, well-kept grounds, and clean facilities. Plenty of open spaces for kids and dogs to run around in, too, and there's also a playground and camp store.

When to book: Nebraska City is home to one of the nation's Arbor Day Foundation campuses, and the city's tourism shows it, especially the myriad of things happening at the Arbor Day Farm and Arbor Day State Historical Park. Nebraska summers can be brutal with heat and humidity, so plan to book your RV site during the late spring and early fall shoulder seasons.

Runner-up: Hidden Falls Cabins & RV Park, Nebraska City

©TripAdvisor

Nevada: Las Vegas RV Resort

Las Vegas
This Sin City-based resort has a whopping 378 sites and is limited to campers 18 or older, and guests love it for its level and paved sites, clean facilities, friendly staff, and secure front entrance. Patrons can relax in its solar-heated pool and spa, get a workout in the fitness center, and it's welcoming to pups with an area for exercising them, too. It's got perfect across-the-board Good Sam ratings.

When to book: With nearly 400 sites and Vegas' reputation as a year-round destination, there's not really a bad time to book this park.

Runner-up: Wine Ridge RV Resort & Cottages, Pahrump

©TripAdvisor

New Hampshire: Mountain Lake Camping Resort

Lancaster
A playground and pirate ship, heated pool with water slides, 30-acre lake, shuffleboard, wagon rides, owner-guided bike rides, and daily fresh-baked muffins are just some of the amenities that make Mountain Lake a popular camping resort. "Wonderful location, family-run, beautifully maintained, and great customer service!" enthused one reviewer.

When to book: If you've got kids, this park is good any time of year, but its Annual Columbus Day Weekend Halloween Extravaganza is a favorite among regulars. Going from June to early fall will let you take advantage of local attractions like scenic waterfalls, many nearby hiking trails, the Mount Washington Cog Railway, or even Santa's Village.

Runner-up: Crazy Horse Family Campground, Littleton

©TripAdvisor

New Jersey: Ocean View Resort Campground

Ocean City
This is the campground to stay at if you're aiming for a boredom-free vacay (for something a little quieter, check out our runner-up, below). Ocean View has a splash pad, freshwater lake with white-sand beach, swimming pool, ice cream parlor, stocked fishing pond, tramcar, mini-golf, three playgrounds, arcade rooms, and much more. Roughing it this is not, but for whole-family fun, Ocean View might be your spot.

When to book: Ocean City is close to plenty of other quaint summer Southern Shore Jersey towns, including Sea Isle City and Cape May, that are best enjoyed between mid-June to early September. Expect 14 nearby beaches — many free — plenty of wildlife, shopping, and history. Go in July to experience the New Jersey BBQ Championship & Blues Festival in nearby North Wildwood.

Runner-up: Turkey Swamp Park, Freehold Township

©TripAdvisor

New Mexico: Angel Fire RV Resort

Angel Fire
One recent patron described his stay: "We're full-timers so we've camped at many RV parks. This is one of the nicest we've visited. Facilities second to none. Beautiful. Easy in and out. Wonderful clubhouse. Helpful staff." Surrounded by the state's gorgeous Rocky Mountains, Angel Fire has amenities that include a clubhouse, laundry facilities that can accommodate credit cards, high-speed, fiber-optic Wi-Fi, a fitness center, hot tub, dog park, playground, propane fire pits, and the ability to book a massage.

When to book: Summer temps stay mostly between 70 and 80, and mid- to late-October offers spectacular opportunities to see fall foliage. The resort has a page dedicated to everything campers can do when not relaxing at the resort.

Runner-up: Route 66 RV Resort, Albuquerque

©TripAdvisor

New York: Villages RV Park at Turning Stone

Verona
It's a rare RV park that scores above a 9 on Campground Reviews, but Villages at Turning Stone — part of the greater Turning Stone Resort and Casino — is one of them. The campground has 175 paved sites with full hookups and Wi-Fi, and the park itself features nature trails, bocce ball, horseshoes, tennis, basketball, and volleyball, plus separate ponds for paddle boating and fishing. There's also a heated pool and hot tub open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

When to book: The RV resort is open from early May through mid-October, and golfers will enjoy the resort's five courses during these months. There's also tennis, fishing, a spa, and more.

Runner-up: Ledgeview RV Park, Lake George

Ed W./Yelp

North Carolina: Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages

Four Oaks
This park, about an hour southeast of the Raleigh-Durham region, is popular with campers for its well-maintained grounds and facilities, helpful and friendly park staff, and a host of amenities, which include two pools and a spa, a billiard room, fitness center, mini-golf, pickleball courts, three dog parks, and more. It has 150 RV sites, all with 30/50 amp service, free Wi-Fi and cable, and fire pits and picnic tables.

When to book: For warmer temperatures in the 60s to 80s, spring through fall is a great time to visit this area. If you like driving a hard bargain, go for the 301 Endless Yard Sale in June. 

Runner-up: Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages, Wade

©TripAdvisor

North Dakota: Cottonwood Campground

Medora
Another state that's neither chock full of campgrounds nor very high on many RV owners' lists, it only takes one look at this North Dakota campground's host page — it's located in Theodore Roosevelt National Park — to see why it's well-loved for its beautiful surroundings. There are no hookups or cell phone or internet reception, so plan to really rough it here. But, with so much beauty around you, will you really care?

When to book: The campground fills to capacity each afternoon mid-May through mid-September, so it's a pretty safe bet that's the best time to visit. Half the sites can be reserved, and the other half are first-come, first-served. Once there, forget about everything else and take a scenic drive, or go for a hike or horseback ride. Astronomy buffs will want to plan their trip for late August/early September when the Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival presents star viewings, special presentations, rocket building and launching, children's activities, and more.

Runner-up: Schuster RV Park, New Rockford

©TripAdvisor

Ohio: Evergreen Park RV Resort

Dundee
This Amish Country resort gets high marks across the board on all review sites, with campers singing its praises for its pretty, peaceful landscape, clean and modern facilities, and friendly staff, as well as plenty to do in the surrounding area. The resort itself offers a pool, hot tub, game room, and fitness room with basketball, volleyball, and shuffleboard courts. It also has an open-air pavilion with picnic tables and grills where you can hob-knob with other guests.

When to book: For warmer weather and easier travel to visit all the area's flea markets, Amish and Mennonite furniture stores, and other culturally inspired destinations, aim for mid-May at the earliest, when temperatures reach the 70s here during the day.

Runner-up: Cross Creek Camping Resort, Delaware

©TripAdvisor

Oklahoma: By the Lake RV Park And Resort

Ardmore
By the Lake's reviews are full of comments like, "Nicest RV park we've ever stayed in." Located in south-central Oklahoma in a country setting, it's a relatively new park with 90 big rig-friendly pull-through sites and 38 more back-ins. Amenities include nature trails, a playground and game room, fishing pond, pool, and clean and modern bathrooms and laundry facilities.

When to book: From boutique Main Street shopping to Lake Murray State Park to the Gold Mountain Casino, there's plenty to do around Ardmore. Temps average in the 70s to lower 80s in May and late September/early October, making the shoulder seasons a great time to visit.

Runner-up: Do Drop Inn RV Resort, Calera

©TripAdvisor

Oregon: Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort

Sisters
So named because it sits between the towns of Bend and Sisters — and at the base of the Three Sisters range's eastern foothills — Bend/Sisters Garden works hard to make its landscape representative and deserving of the beauty that surrounds it, featuring plants, trees, and wildflowers that you don't see in many RV parks. "One of the most beautiful lusciously green RV parks we have been to! It's like a botanical garden!" noted one review. Visitors also note that the sites are well-planned and the customer service "exceptional."

When to book: Central Oregon is a year-round destination, but for a real treat, head into town for the Bend Summer Festival and enjoy food, libations, art fairs, live music, and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Runner-up: Seven Feathers RV Resort, Canyonville

©TripAdvisor

Pennsylvania: Hershey Road Campground

Elizabethtown
Recently remodeled, this 20-acre campground bills itself as a "family- and pet-oriented destination park" in a "serene, rural setting." It offers both back-in and pull-through sites plus "buddy" sites that let you camp near friends. Amenities include a pond, mini-golf, dog park, pavilion, pool, and a game room. It has near-perfect ratings from Good Sam.

When to book: There's plenty to do near here, including visiting Lancaster, about 30 miles away, as well as the world's second-largest Amish community, Hersheypark, and plenty more. The best time to visit, weather-wise and to avoid crowds, is from late April through late June.

Runner-up: Lake in Wood Resort, Narvon

©TripAdvisor

Rhode Island: Ashaway RV Resort

Bradford
As our union's smallest state, Rhode Island isn't packed with RV parks, but if you're taking your big rig to Little Rhody, Ashaway offers 260 sites with full hookups plus free cable and Wi-Fi. Campers note that it's in a great location, close to beaches, casinos, golf courses, and even Mystic, Connecticut. Amenities here are well represented, with a dog park, pool, splash pad, hot tub, mini-golf, and more.

When to book: The park is open from mid-April through mid-October. To take advantage of nearby outdoor recreation opportunities, June to August is the best time to book.

Runner-up: Whispering Pines Campground, Hope Valley

©TripAdvisor

South Carolina: Camp Lake Jasper RV Resort

Hardeeville
With near-perfect Good Sam ratings and its adjacent location to Lake Jasper, as well as what reviewers call "way above average" features like its pool, laundry, and restrooms, Camp Lake Jasper is one of the Palmetto State's top campgrounds. It has wide, paved roads leading to full hookup, angled pull-through sites, plus an activity pavilion, community fire pit, camp store, fishing dock, and more. Nearby Sergeant Jasper Park offers hiking, boat rentals, fishing, biking, and plenty else to do.

When to book: Whether you're planning to stay close to Hardeeville or head a half-hour east to Hilton Head, the best times to visit are April/May or September/October for fewer crowds and lower prices. If you don't mind the company of a few more folks, spending a few more bucks, and a bit more rain, summer is an ideal time as well.

Runner-up: WillowTree RV Resort, Longs

©TripAdvisor

South Dakota: Elkhorn Ridge Resort

Spearfish
Nestled in South Dakota's famous Black Hills, Elkhorn Ridge is close to Deadwood, Sturgis, and many other sites that draw tourists in. It offers 111 pull-throughs and 75 back-in paved sites, each with 20/30/50 amp service as well as complimentary cable and Wi-Fi. The park has a grocery store, gift boutique, bistro serving breakfast and lunch, and in the summer, "live music, social hours, and fun events that bring our campground resort goers together for fellowship under the South Dakota stars!" There is also a pool, basketball and tennis courts, hiking and biking trails, and an on-site golf course.

When to book: The summer months bring throngs of tourists, so to avoid crowds, go in September or October when there's also little rain. In September, the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival takes place, or check out the Black Hills Powwow in October.

Runner-up: Rushmore Shadows Resort, Rapid City

Kelly D./Yelp

Tennessee: Smoky Bear Campground and RV Park

Gatlinburg
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Smoky Bear is still a comfortable 15 to 20ish miles away from the crowds of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Here you'll find paved roads and site pads — 46 of them, to be exact, each with full hookups. The park is well-treed, offering plenty of shade in the warmer months, and amenities include a heated pool, hot tub, playground, book and DVD lending library, camp store, and more. Raved one camper: "The bathhouse was the cleanest I have ever seen. The sites were well maintained, and everyone was friendly. 10/10 — will be back next year!"

When to book: June through October is the best time to visit. July features the biggest crowds, but also the opportunity to check out a beloved, old-fashioned county fair, the Cocke County Fair. For fall foliage, aim for October.

Runner-up: The Ridge Outdoor Resort, Sevierville

©TripAdvisor

Texas: Buckhorn Lake Resort

Kerrville
You can't get much better than Kerrville for Texas Hill Country beauty and hospitality, and Buckhorn Lake's stellar reviews prove that. One Campground Reviews user noted, "It's hard for me to rate this park any higher. In my opinion, it is in the top 5 parks we've stayed in anywhere in the USA." It's well-planned, with spacious, level, "spotlessly clean" sites, consistently good Wi-Fi and cable, and a friendly and helpful staff. Its grounds are also gorgeous, and amenities include a pool, fenced dog park, country store, sport courts, putting green, and much more.

When to book: Birders should head to the Buckhorn in April, when the area hosts many birding festivals. If you're more of a music fan, check out the beloved Kerrville Folk Festival in May and June.

Runner-up: Katy Lake RV Resort, Katy

©TripAdvisor

Utah: Mountain Valley RV Resort

Heber City
If staying in an RV park that feels more like a well-appointed resort, surrounded by this valley's majestic Rocky Mountains, sounds like your idea of a great vacation, Mountain Valley might be the place for you. Wrote one reviewer: "We're full-timers who have stayed at all kinds of RV parks. This is one of the nicer ones. Upscale in look and quality. Exceptional, well-maintained facilities and grounds. Many amenities. A great base from which to enjoy the area, or a destination in its own right."

When to book: Billing itself as "Utah's Backyard Playground," Heber Valley is a year-round destination, and Mountain Valley stays open year-round to accommodate that. 

Runner-up: Zion River Resort, Virgin

©TripAdvisor

Vermont: Sugar Ridge RV Village-Campground

Danville
Like your camping experience surrounded by nature? Sugar Ridge offers 150 sites — many of which feel very secluded — in 68 acres of maple and pine trees, and so many amenities that one reviewer noted that "you never have to leave." These include two pools, an 18-hole mini-golf course, arcade, playground, 3 miles of hiking trails, and more, plus horse-drawn wagon rides and daily organized activities for those feeling social. Good Sam gives this park perfect marks across the board.

When to book: With that many trees around, aim for September, when the park hosts two early Halloween weekends (the park closes by mid-October) and the fall foliage will wow. Don't have a rig of your own? Sugar Ridge has six 40-footers you can rent.

Runner-up: Tree Farm Campground, Springfield

©TripAdvisor

Virginia: Fries New River Trail RV Park

Fries
Located "in a quiet mountain hollow surrounded by thick forested hills on three sides," campers feel like they get away from it all at Fries New River Trail. It's also one of the highest-rated parks on this list, with campers raving about the friendly folks who run it, its beautiful setting, spacious sites, and well-maintained everything. "If you want a place to relax and feel welcome, this is the place," noted one review.

When to book: Birdwatchers and lovers of bluegrass and other folksy music will enjoy this area year-round, but May, June, and September offer the best weather.

Runner-up: Americamps RV Resort, Ashland

©TripAdvisor

Washington: Columbia Sun RV Resort

Kennewick
With perfect 10s from Good Sam, plenty of space between each of its 145 sites (70 of which are big-rig friendly), and a 25-acre location nestled near the confluence of the Columbia and Yakima rivers, Columbia Sun is a favorite among Washington campers. It features a heated pool, hot tub, general store, fitness center and game room, fenced dog parks, and plenty of social activities like karaoke, ice cream socials, wine tastings, and bingo nights.

When to book: Kennewick is part of Washington's Tri-Cities region, which offers plenty to do year-round. Ideal weather in this part of the country, however, comes in late April through early July, and early August to October.

Runner-up: The Driftwood RV Resort and Campground, Copalis Beach

©TripAdvisor

West Virginia: Stonewall Resort Briar Point Campground

Roanoke
RVers can camp lakeside at Stonewall's Briar Point, with full hookups and complimentary Wi-Fi, all while having access to everything the resort offers, including restaurants, a spa, golfing, swimming, an escape room, and plenty of other recreational opportunities. The campground offers a shuttle service to and from its main resort facilities

When to book: The weather here is most pleasant from late April through late June. Located in the state's Mountain Lakes region, that time of year is perfect for touring its many wineries as well as fishing, boating, and clay shooting.

Runner-up: Camp Creek State Park, Camp Creek

Tia A./Yelp

Wisconsin: Stoney Creek RV Resort

Osseo
Family owned and operated since 2014, campers give Stoney Creek high marks for its well-planned layout, paved roads, sense of privacy, and mature landscape. One reviewer commented that out "of all the RV parks we have short-term stayed in over the past year, Stoney Creek was the best." Amenities include many of the usual — playground, mini-golf, fishing, etc. — as well as some you won't find at other resorts, like a skate park, laser tag, scheduled foam machine sessions, and something called a "gagaball pit."

When to book: Located about a half-hour outside of popular Eau Claire, the weather here is best from mid-May through late September, and the city hosts lots of fun events and festivals during that time.

Runner-up: Rustic Barn Campground, Kieler

©TripAdvisor

Wyoming: Mountain View RV Park & Campground

Sundance
Campers rave about the laundry and bathroom facilities at Mountain View, as well as owners Brian and Pam McLagan, who are "wonderful, helpful, and informative." All sites are pull-through and offer full-hookups, and the park's Wi-Fi was recently upgraded. Amenities include a heated pool plus free billiards and ping pong tables. Mountain View is located in Wyoming's Black Hills and is less than two hours away from Mount Rushmore, and a mere 30 minutes to the striking Devils Tower National Monument.

When to book: Head out for the Crook County Fair taking place in July, and then stay to check out the 80th annual Sturgis Black Hills motorcycle rally less than an hour's drive away.

Runner-up: The Longhorn Ranch Lodge & RV Resort, Dubois