The southern United States offers a diverse range of national parks, from vast deserts to lush wetlands and towering sand dunes. RVing through these parks is one of the best ways to experience their beauty, providing the freedom to explore stunning landscapes while enjoying the comforts of home on wheels. If you’re looking for the best national parks for RVing in the South, here are our top picks, along with campground recommendations and must-see attractions.

1. Big Bend National Park (Texas)

Big Bend National Park is a remote and rugged gem, featuring dramatic canyons, desert landscapes, and the winding Rio Grande. It’s a paradise for RVers seeking adventure and solitude.

Best RV Campgrounds:

• Rio Grande Village RV Park – The only campground with full hookups inside the park.
• Cottonwood Campground – A quiet, dry camping option near Santa Elena Canyon.

Must-See Attractions:

• Santa Elena Canyon – A breathtaking canyon with hiking and river access.
• Lost Mine Trail – A moderate hike with stunning mountain views.
• Hot Springs Historic Trail – A short walk to a natural hot spring along the Rio Grande.

2. Everglades National Park (Florida)

Everglades National Park offers a unique RVing experience with its vast wetlands, diverse wildlife, and incredible opportunities for kayaking and airboat tours.

Best RV Campgrounds:

• Flamingo Campground – Offers electric hookups and stunning views of Florida Bay.
• Long Pine Key Campground – A peaceful setting with access to hiking trails.

Must-See Attractions:

• Shark Valley – A great spot for biking and wildlife viewing.
• Anhinga Trail – A short boardwalk trail with excellent chances to see alligators.
• Ten Thousand Islands – Perfect for kayaking and spotting manatees.

3. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado)

Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, offering a surreal landscape perfect for exploration.

Best RV Campgrounds:

• Piñon Flats Campground – The only campground inside the park, with stunning dune views.
• Nearby RV Parks in Alamosa – Full-hookup options are available outside the park.

Must-See Attractions:

• Star Dune – The tallest dune in North America.
• Medano Creek – A seasonal, beach-like creek at the base of the dunes.
• Zapata Falls – A hidden waterfall just outside the park.

4. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

Hot Springs National Park blends history and nature, featuring thermal hot springs and scenic hiking trails.

Best RV Campgrounds:

• Gulpha Gorge Campground – Offers full hookups and a peaceful creekside setting.
• Lake Ouachita State Park – A scenic option just outside the park.

Must-See Attractions:

• Bathhouse Row – Historic bathhouses offering thermal spring experiences.
• Hot Springs Mountain Tower – Provides panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains.
• Grand Promenade – A relaxing walk with views of the hot springs.

5. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Texas)

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering dramatic mountain peaks, canyons, and desert scenery.

Best RV Campgrounds:

• Pine Springs Campground – A basic campground near the park’s best hikes.
• Nearby RV Parks in Carlsbad, NM – Full-hookup options are available outside the park.

Must-See Attractions:

• Guadalupe Peak – The highest point in Texas, offering stunning views.
• McKittrick Canyon – A beautiful hike with vibrant fall foliage.
• Devil’s Hall Trail – A scenic slot canyon hike.

6. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

Congaree National Park is a hidden gem, home to one of the largest intact old-growth hardwood forests in the U.S.

Best RV Campgrounds:

• Longleaf Campground – A peaceful, primitive campground within the park.
• Nearby RV Parks in Columbia, SC – Full-hookup options are available outside the park.

Must-See Attractions:

• Boardwalk Loop Trail – A scenic walk through the towering cypress trees.
• Congaree River Blue Trail – A great kayaking and canoeing route.
• Weston Lake Loop – A beautiful trail with wildlife spotting opportunities.

Tips for RVing in National Parks

• Make Reservations Early – Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Check RV Size Restrictions – Some parks have limits on RV length, so plan accordingly.
• Be Prepared for Dry Camping – Some campgrounds do not have hookups, so bring extra water and power solutions.
• Follow Leave No Trace Principles – Help keep these parks beautiful for future visitors.

Start Your RV Adventure Today!

Exploring the national parks in the South by RV is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hiking the dunes in Colorado or spotting alligators in Florida, these parks offer something for every traveler. Have you visited any of these parks? Share your experiences in the comments! And don’t forget to check out more of our RV travel guides for inspiration on your next adventure!