2025’s Top RV Destinations: Branson, Rockport & Naples Lead The Nation In Best RVing Experiences

August 13, 2025 Reading Time: 18 minutes
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Anca Lenta
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Anca Lenta
  • Branson, MO, Naples, FL, and Rockport, TX, take the top spots for best RV destinations, excelling in campsite availability, amenities, connectivity and lifestyle offerings.
  • Texas stands out for its camper-friendly infrastructure, natural beauty and balanced quality of life — with over 15 cities on the list. Both Rockport and Tyler made the top 10.
  • Arizona is close behind, with 11 destinations favored by RV enthusiasts, led by Lake Havasu, a desert-waterfront gem.
  • In RV storage trends, Katy, TX, leads with 13.39 RV-related searches per 1,000 residents — more than double that of second-place Apache Junction, AZ (6.54), followed by Myrtle Beach, SC (4.57) and Fort Myers, FL (4.25).

From the horse-drawn wagons of the 1800s to the first motorized RVs around 1910, the spirit of American adventure has always been tied to life on the road. Just ask Bob Dylan.

Today, generations of travelers embrace the freedom of the open highway, with RVs as the ultimate symbol of that journey. Whether you’re hitting the road with family, friends or furry companions, RVing offers a seamless, comfortable way to travel.

Right now, 8.1 million U.S. households own an RV — and the road ahead looks even busier. Over the next five years, another 16.9 million households plan to join the lifestyle, more than doubling today’s numbers and signaling an unprecedented surge in RV interest. The call of the open road is louder than ever, and people are more than ever eager to respond to it.

Meet the modern RVer: Millennials take the wheel

The face of RV ownership is changing. While the median owner age has declined from 53 in 2021 to 49 in 2025, millennials (ages 35–54) now make up nearly half of all RV owners (46%).

That’s a notable shift from 2021, when nearly half (49%) were over 55. Younger travelers are embracing RV life — not just for retirement dreams but as an antidote to burnout and digital overload. For them, RVing is a way to reclaim time and recharge.

The thirst for adventure is real — and growing. The only question left: Which way will you go?

From Ozark forests to Gulf Coast beaches, Branson, MO, Naples, FL, and Rockport, TX, are setting the gold standard for RV destinations

If you’re one of the many wanderers craving a deeper connection with nature — without giving up comfort — we’ve done the legwork for you. We searched high and low across the country to uncover the U.S. RV destinations that strike the perfect balance between livability and that open-road spirit.

To identify the best of the best, we focused on destinations with at least 10 RV campsites — because while we love the idea of going off-grid, practicality still matters. Then we evaluated key factors:

  • Number of campsites
  • Must-have amenities: water, sewer and electricity hookups
  • Extras for modern RVers: Wi-Fi, cable TV and the number of internet providers
  • Local livability: air quality, grocery affordability, shopping options and pet-friendly policies

We also explored the RV storage market — where demand is highest and how much it costs to store a rig between trips.

According to our research, RV-friendly destinations are scattered across the country — but only a select few manage to hit the sweet spot. These standout cities don’t just check the basic boxes — they deliver the full package: robust infrastructure, must-have amenities and effortless access to the great outdoors.

Among this RV-ready crowd, Branson, MO, Naples, FL, and Rockport, TX, are leading the way. With consistently high marks across the board, they’re proving that today’s RVers are looking for more than a place to park — they want relaxation, reliability and a break from the big-city bustle.

Top 10 RV destinations for 2025

Whether you’re drawn to rugged coastlines, lakeshores or quaint little towns, the best RV destinations are just the right fit of memorable landscapes and the conveniences that make life on wheels feel like home. These spots are ready to welcome you, and most importantly, here is why they should be on your radar in the first place.Map of top RV destinations across the U.S.

1. Branson, MO

  • Number of RV camps: 25
  • Ranking highest in air quality (20), campsite rating (4.37*) and retail availability (10.61 retail stores per 1,000 residents)

If you’re plotting your next RV adventure, Branson, Missouri, steals the spotlight as the premier destination for travelers on wheels. Tucked away in the heart of the verdant Ozark Mountains, Branson has long called visitors with its ecosystem that offers you the best of both worlds, natural beauty and entertainment, making it the top-ranked spot for RVers nationwide. The city welcomes RV enthusiasts with its 25 well-maintained campsites.

Beyond the campsites, Branson’s appeal stretches to its myriad outdoor activities, from fishing in clear mountain streams to hiking scenic trails, with options for glamping that appeal to those who crave a touch of urban comfort alongside nature. Entertainment abounds, including family-friendly theaters, concert venues and museums, so that boredom is never a factor in your vacation.

For the 65% of RVers who have delved into the agrotourism trend, especially younger travelers who increasingly seek out authentic, local experiences, Missouri delivers. In 2022, the state was home to 803 agritourism farms, generating $19 million in sales. Both figures represent a significant 22% increase compared to 2017, highlighting a clear upward trend in rural tourism appeal.

Practical amenities are also a strong suit for Branson. Campsites are well equipped with essential hookups for water, sewer and electricity, ensuring a hassle-free stay that respects the local environment. Remote workers and digital nomads will be glad to know that Branson also fully supports connectivity by offering a healthy selection of 17 internet providers. No Instagrammable location is getting left behind without the world to share it with.

The local food scene shines too, with a grocery affordability index at 99 statewide, near the national average.

Branson’s air quality is refreshingly crisp, and that is reinforced by its air quality index (AQI) level of 20, encouraging outdoor activities year-round. The area maintains a low crime rate of around 6%, contributing to a safe, stress-free atmosphere. Just make sure you don’t leave any food out for potential unwanted visitors that might come in the shape of some furry critters.

Speaking of companions, pet lovers can rest assured that their beloved fluffy friends can join in on the fun, as pets are allowed and take part in the exploring.

2. Naples, FL

  • Number of RV camps: 15
  • Ranking highest in campsite rating (4.41*), retail availability (7.69 retail stores per 1,000 residents) and park access (2.27 parks per 1,000 residents)

Naples, Florida, ranks a close second with an elevated, resort-style approach to RV living that appeals especially to those seeking a mixture of luxury and outdoor fun. The city is the highest-ranked Florida destination.

Boasting 15 well-appointed campgrounds, it delivers amenities such as a solid internet infrastructure and proper on-site necessities like cable and shower areas, as well as easy access to stunning Gulf Coast beaches. Just the right thing for cooling off during the scorching summer months.

For RV travelers who appreciate a touch of glamour alongside nature, Naples offers a healthy mix of upscale leisure and outdoor adventure. The area’s famed Naples Pier is a must-visit, a beloved spot for fishing, sunset strolls and dolphin watching, which complement an active RV lifestyle.

Beyond the pier, guests can enjoy the innate proximity to fine dining, upscale shopping along 5th Avenue South and cultural highlights like the Naples Botanical Garden.

Connectivity isn’t an afterthought here either. With around 21 internet providers in the area, staying connected — whether for remote work or sharing your travels — is effortless. Food-wise, Naples scores a grocery index close to the national average at 101.8, ensuring accessible dining options. Crisp, fresh air at an AQI of 45 and well-maintained, clean campgrounds enhance the overall experience as well.

No need to fret about not having enough available places for a little bit of retail therapy either, as Naples ranks ninth when it comes to shops around every corner. The city offers 7.69 places to shop to your heart’s content per 1,000 residents.

3. Rockport, TX

  • Number of RV camps: 30
  • Ranking highest in food index (94.1), campsite rating (4.20*) and park access (0.86 parks per 1,000 residents)

Cracking the top three on our list, Rockport, Texas, stands out for its breezy coastal air, fresh Gulf seafood and campsites that don’t skimp on any amenities. This Gulf Coast gem offers 30 RV parks across town, giving travelers plenty of options with strong digital coverage — a big plus in an age where even campfires come with Instagram stories. It also tops the charts statewide for internet access, which means you can stay online whether you’re working remotely or just catching up on your favorite show under the awning.

A short drive takes you to the scenic Table Rock area, a favorite among hikers, anglers and families looking for adventures. The statewide food affordability index sits at a solid 94.1, so eating well without overspending is easy.

What sets Rockport apart is its laid-back magnetism. Think morning birdwatching at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, followed by sunset strolls along Fulton Beach Road. It’s the kind of place that keeps calling you back, one plate of fried shrimp at a time.

4. Gulf Shores, AL

  • Number of RV camps: 12
  • Ranking highest in food index (93), campsite rating (4.29*) and air quality (39)

Moving east along the Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores, Alabama, makes the list among the top RV destinations. With 12 local campsites, the city delivers on the essentials — a reliable sewer system, ranked fourth-best cable access in the state and convenient on-site laundry, so you’re not dragging the beach back into your RV.

Tech-savvy travelers will appreciate the 14 available internet providers, making digital availability one less thing to worry about on the road. As for meals, Alabama posts a food affordability index of 93, letting you dig into local favorites, from fried oysters to banana pudding, without stretching your wallet too thin.

Beyond the amenities, Gulf Shores offers that quintessential coastal vibe: white sand beaches, warm Southern hospitality and easy access to nature preserves like Gulf State Park.

5. Pigeon Forge, TN

  • Number of RV camps: 16
  • Ranking highest in retail availability (22.99 retail stores per 1,000 residents), campsite rating (4.39*) and food index (96.1)

Pigeon Forge earns its fifth-place spot thanks to a mix of solid amenities and that unmistakable Smoky Mountain charm. The city gives you plenty of options for setting up camp, with 16 RV-friendly sites ready to host your next getaway. And if you’re traveling with your smaller companions — no, not the kids, the other ones — you’re in luck: 94% of local campsites welcome pets, so tails can wag freely right alongside your weekend plans.

It also takes the crown for a good old-fashioned shopping spree, boasting 22.99 retail stores per 1,000 residents, making it a great place to sneak in a little hitting-the-stores action between mountain hikes. It’s also in the first spot when it comes to shops in the top 10 list, so there are bound to be plenty of options around.

Agrotourism is a growing part of the region too, with seasonal farms, pumpkin patches and animal meet-and-greets scattered throughout the countryside, providing a nice change of pace if you want to swap big crowds for big fields.

And if belting out “Jolene” in the car has become a proud family tradition, then you’re in extra luck, as Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, where the classic theme park formula gets a bit of a country makeover. Think roller coasters, fried pies and live banjos, all in one place.

6. Zephyrhills, FL

  • Number of RV camps: 14
  • Ranking highest in campsite rating (4.19*), air quality  (42) and park availability (0.60 parks per 1,000 residents)

Florida makes another appearance on the list, this time with the little town of Zephyrhills. With 14 RV campsites on offer, it’s a comfortable stop for travelers on the move. Just don’t count on pitching a tent here, as it’s the only destination in our lineup where tents aren’t allowed, so you’ll want to roll in with wheels, not stakes and poles.

The area keeps you well connected with 14 internet providers, and the food affordability index hits 101.8, meaning stocking your fridge won’t strain your budget.

Zephyrhills has aptly earned its reputation for crystal-clear natural springs and a slower, small-town rhythm, so if you’re in the mood to quiet down and settle in, this is the place to be. Its unbeatable, famed Sunshine State year-round climate adds another layer to the appeal, as traveling there can be done at any time.

7. Custer, SD

  • Number of RV camps: 22
  • Ranking highest in campsite rating (4.55*), air quality (41) and park availability (2.33 parks per 1,000 residents)

South Dakota makes its debut on the list with Custer sliding into the sixth spot, and for good reason. Most of its 22 RV campsites in the area are planted just minutes from Custer State Park, so you’ll have front-row access to the lush wildlife and lakes. As an added bonus, Mount Rushmore is right around the corner — a must-see monument that still makes the bucket list for many road trippers who’ve yet to tick it off.

Custer doesn’t skimp on the essentials, either. It offers everything from electric hookups and showers to dump stations and laundry — basically, the full spread for RVers who like their comfort close. And unlike our previous entry, Zephyrhills, this spot flips the script with 100% of its campsites welcoming tents and actually placing first overall for tent-friendly options. You can pull in with a fifth-wheel or pitch a classic canvas tent. Either way, Custer’s got room for your kind of adventure.

The city has nine internet providers to keep you online, while a food affordability index of 97.1 keeps meals budget-friendly. Air quality averages a solid 41, and with a low crime rate of just 1.6%, it ranks 13th safest among our top picks.

For those who love their green spaces, Custer also ranks fifth in park availability, with roughly 2.33 parks per 1,000 residents — plenty of places to stretch your legs before hitting the road again. And if shopping is more down your alley, there are around a modest 4.3 shops per 1,000 residents.

8. Hot Springs, AR

  • Number of RV camps: 12
  • Ranking highest in campsite rating (4.26*), retail availability (5.02 retail stores per 1,000 residents) and food index (94.8 statewide)

A scenic drive from Little Rock brings you to Hot Springs, Arkansas, a rising favorite among RV destination spots. True to its name, the town’s signature thermal springs are the main attraction, with several spas and resorts making full use of the naturally heated waters, providing the proper kind of comfort you might need to unwind after a long day on the road.

The city averages 0.45 parks per 1,000 residents and totals 12 RV-dedicated campsites, so you won’t have to worry about a shortage of space to set up camp and take in the region’s wooded beauty. The food affordability index sits at 94.8, and while the AQI hovers around 50, those with sensitivities may want to keep an eye on pollen or minor pollutants. Overall, the environment remains traveler-friendly and inviting.

9. Lake Havasu City, AZ

  • Number of RV camps: 12
  • Ranking highest in campsite rating (4.27*), air quality (19) and retail availability (4.31 retail stores per 1,000 residents)

Desert retreat meets water sports — welcome to Lake Havasu, Arizona. With its consistent warm weather and year-round sunshine, this RV hotspot is ideal for travelers who don’t want to settle for one particular season to hit the road. Be warned, though: Summer temps can soar, so pack that sunscreen unless you’re trying to match the red rocks.

Tucked along the Arizona-California border and fed by the Colorado River, Lake Havasu brings together both isolation and endless outdoor action. You’ll find yourself surrounded by water-based fun from all corners. Kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing are all in their element here. And if your RV setup includes gear beyond a lawn chair and grill, this is your playground.

Turns out the hype is real and palpable, as Lake Havasu City draws around 1 million visitors annually, according to the local tourism bureau. And with minimal light pollution and desert skies, stargazing is a nightly event you don’t want to miss out on. That crisp desert air also earns high marks, with a median AQI of 19, ranking fourth best in air quality across our featured RV destinations. So go ahead, take a deep breath.

More into land than lake? You’re still in good hands. Red-rock cliffs, hidden coves, the Mohave Sunset Trail and Lake Havasu State Park deliver scenic hiking and off-road options if the water’s not calling your name.

As for where to stay, 12 RV campsites are ready and waiting, all equipped with the must-haves to keep your desert adventure both exciting and homey.

10. Tyler, TX

  • Number of RV camps: 12
  • Ranking highest in campsite rating (4.33*), air quality (40) and retail availability (4.67 retail stores per 1,000 residents)

Texas comes back up again to round out the list with Tyler, landing in our final top 10 spot. Known as the Rose Capital of America, this East Texas town is full of petals when it comes to being a go-to RVers’ paradise — no thorns here.

About 90 minutes east of Dallas, Tyler makes for a perfect getaway if you’re craving fresh air and a slower pace. With 12 available campsites eagerly awaiting you, you can take your pick to find the best fit for your needs with ease.

The rural, tight-knit charm is strong here, and with around 50% of millennials stating they prefer to slow down and enjoy the experience when RVing, trading city noise for quiet trails is a match made in heaven when traveling to Tyler.
The city offers plenty of space to explore, unwind and reconnect with nature.

Make sure to put its famous Rose Garden on your to-do list, where thousands upon thousands of blooming roses show off in full color during the season.
Shaded, wooded areas offer relief from the Texas sun, especially around Tyler State Park, where you can cool off with a swim, cast a line in the lake or rent gear right on the spot if you don’t want to trudge it along with you. There are great mountain biking trails, too, for those wanting to take the off-road route through the pines.

Only 50% of RV campsites offer cable, but 100% come with Wi-Fi, so you won’t have to fully unplug unless you want to. With 25 internet providers, Tyler actually ranks sixth in that regard, making it a solid stop for RVers who like a strong signal with their solitude.

The food index sits at 94.1, cheaper than the statewide average and just right for a stocked-up lunch by the lake.

Regional breakdown: Texas wins the RV destination duel with the Grand Canyon

Beyond migration trends and real estate development, Texas and Arizona are battling it out for RV supremacy — from the coastal allure of Texas to the rugged desert landscapes of Arizona.

Texas takes the lead with 15 cities featured overall, including two top 10 standouts: Rockport and Tyler. Arizona isn’t far behind, with 11 cities making the list and Lake Havasu claiming a high-ranking spot. Just behind them, Florida, California and Oregon are tied, each represented by six cities. But there’s a key difference: Florida earns a top 10 mention with Fort Myers, while California and Oregon fall just short despite strong overall representation.

Across the top 10 destinations, cities average 17 RV campsites each, with the majority offering electric hookups, internet access and pet-friendly policies. These RV hotspots also score well on quality-of-life metrics, blending low crime rates with plentiful retail options for a well-rounded travel experience.

Park it here: How much storage costs for RVers in between trips

While the open road continues to call adventurers of all kinds, RVers are answering louder than ever. On average, they now spend 30 days on the move each year, up from 20 days in 2021 — proving that this lifestyle is no passing phase. It’s evolving into a seasonal rhythm for many Americans.

But while hitting the road may feel freeing, parking the rig once home can present unexpected challenges. Many RV owners return to garages that are too small, driveways too short or homeowners associations that are less than thrilled by the sight of a 35-foot vehicle outside the window.

In response, RV-focused self storage has become a booming industry. According to recent data, the number of facilities offering dedicated RV storage has increased by 20% over the last decade. These facilities typically provide secure, oversized spaces with features such as protective roofing, gated access and climate-controlled units — particularly valuable in moisture-prone regions like the Southeast and Midwest.

In short, the modern RV doesn’t just need space — it needs protection, convenience and a reliable place to rest between trips.

To see what the storage market looks like across the U.S. and which cities are friendliest for RV storage customers, we turned to the numbers. We looked at where demand for RV storage is concentrated, how much specialized RV storage costs and what kinds of availability and options are out there.

Naturally, RV storage interest is far from evenly spread across the country.

Katy, Texas, currently leads the nation in RV-related search activity, registering 13.39 searches per 1,000 residents — more than double that of any other city.

Other cities with high search volume include:

  • Apache Junction, AZ — 6.54 searches per 1,000 residents
  • Myrtle Beach, SC — 4.57
  • Fort Myers, FL — 4.25

In these high-interest markets, storage costs generally exceed the national average of $171 per month, though Idaho Falls, ID, and Myrtle Beach, SC, stand out for offering lower rates at $99 and $152, respectively.

When it comes to space availability in RV storage hotspots, half of the 10 top-searched cities offer more than the national benchmark of 7.5 square feet of self storage per capita, but a few fall short — most notably Apache Junction at 4.36 and Simi Valley, CA, at 6.14.

Despite these disparities, inventory has been on the rise across the board. Nationally, RV inventory has reached 16k facilities.

Surprise, AZ, leads with a 100% increase in supply over the past decade alongside Cape Coral, FL, which also has a 100% increase, followed by Modesto, CA, with 56%.

These figures point to a growing nationwide infrastructure aimed at supporting RV travel not just as a hobby but as a lifestyle. And as more Americans trade airports for asphalt, the need for smart, scalable storage solutions is becoming more essential than ever.

U.S. Cities With the Highest Demand and Growth for RV Storage

CityMonthly Search Volume per 1,000 ResidentsAvg. RV Storage Rent ($)Number of Facilities with RV Storage10-Year Change in RV Storage Facility Inventory (%)
Katy, TX13.392133025%
Apache Junction, AZ6.54184170%
Myrtle Beach, SC4.571521742%
Fort Myers, FL4.252913343%
Idaho Falls, ID3.1599167%
San Luis Obispo, CA2.91187650%
Surprise, AZ2.6124314100%
Simi Valley, CA2.5431360%
Palm Springs, CA2.44280833%
Salt Lake City, UT2.35173215%
Colorado Springs, CO1.821485918%
Acworth, GA1.79159120%
Boise, ID1.651252525%
Temecula, CA1.54244110%
Lake Elsinore, CA1.54197929%
Lubbock, TX1.491432216%
Reno, NV1.453514021%
Arvada, CO1.381501025%
Las Vegas, NV1.3517711017%
Tucson, AZ1.331515413%
Albuquerque, NM1.281573812%
Ventura, CA1.27296110%
Murrieta, CA1.252671122%
Hemet, CA1.2116690%
Mesa, AZ1.161635014%
San Clemente, CA1.1020020%
Vancouver, WA1.092203638%
Orlando, FL1.032044923%
Indio, CA0.991891122%
Oceanside, CA0.9919970%
Chino, CA0.9817030%
Modesto, CA0.961661456%
Santa Clarita, CA0.92304620%
Sacramento, CA0.912004518%
Round Rock, TX0.89163148%
Springfield, MO0.83922426%
Cape Coral, FL0.822678100%
Rancho Cucamonga, CA0.803271011%
Henderson, NV0.801973421%
Bakersfield, CA0.781323011%
Baton Rouge, LA0.63196297%
Fort Lauderdale, FL0.60369130%
Scottsdale, AZ0.583191110%
Huntington Beach, CA0.56428717%
Riverside, CA0.54248294%
Tampa, FL0.532233812%
Austin, TX0.502525213%
San Antonio, TX0.491559815%
Kansas City, KS0.4520870%
Denver, CO0.45213170%
Phoenix, AZ0.441827326%
Omaha, NE0.431073629%
Olive Branch, MS0.4311040%
San Diego, CA0.43375274%
Chula Vista, CA0.402451011%
Oklahoma City, OK0.381966716%
Virginia Beach, VA0.372303011%
Carlsbad, CA0.3520820%
Miami, FL0.313223513%
Richmond, VA0.31176186%
Long Beach, CA0.31312110%
New Orleans, LA0.29167929%
Cincinnati, OH0.29130297%
Seattle, WA0.283151417%
Kansas City, MO0.281622117%
Houston, TX0.261691787%
Dallas, TX0.25242603%
Carrollton, TX0.231841417%
San Jose, CA0.21330176%
Nashville, TN0.202032018%
Bellevue, WA0.2026460%
San Mateo, CA0.1928620%
Hayward, CA0.1931360%
Rio Rancho, NM0.19138833%
Arlington, TX0.18149307%
Richmond, CA0.17513620%
Indianapolis, IN0.161724532%
Anaheim, CA0.153461011%
Mesquite, TX0.13192833%
Los Angeles, CA0.10513138%
McKinney, TX0.101711645%
San Francisco, CA0.08903620%
Chicago, IL0.082162210%
StorageCafe analysis of data from Yardi Matrix (Data as of July 2025) and Google Ads. (2024). Pub: Aug 2025.

From the forests of Missouri to the desert shores of Arizona and the breezy coastline of Texas, RV life in 2025 is hitting its stride. With over 8.1million households now owning an RV and another 16.9 million ready to join in, the road is getting busier, for all the right reasons.

Texas stands tall and proud as the statewide protagonist, with the most top-rated RV destinations and the highest interest in RV storage, with Katy pulling more than double the search volume of any other city. Arizona follows close behind, offering consistent appeal and a remote-work-friendly environment that supports digital nomads.

Cities like Branson, Naples, and Rockport are setting the gold standard for smaller destinations, showing that travelers are yearning to reconnect with nature in more untapped areas.

Now that you’ve got your route mapped out, we’ll just say this: Happy trails, and may the skies stay clear wherever you roam.

What the experts are saying

To gain more insight about the RVing industry right now, we asked experts who passed on their opinions to us.

Doug Ressler, Business Intelligence Manager at Yardi Matrix 

How is RV living evolving across the U.S.?Doug Ressler

The future of RV living in the U.S. is being shaped by sustainability and off-grid freedom. Solar panels, battery storage, and water conservation systems are no longer extras — they’re expected. More travelers are boondocking or choosing lesser-known routes, with snowbirds shifting to new states like Texas and Tennessee. Rising fuel costs and higher interest rates are pushing buyers toward smaller, more efficient, even electric RVs, while remote work fuels demand for reliable internet, ergonomic setups, and smart tech. At the same time, Millennials, Gen Z, and digital nomads are redefining the lifestyle, favoring compact, tech-savvy, and community-focused RV experiences over traditional motorhomes.

Paul Mitchell, National President at FRVA (Family RV Association)Photo of older man with glasses.

How would you describe the current perception of RV travel? Have you noticed any major changes in how RVing is viewed now compared to the pre-pandemic era — or even during the height of the pandemic?

RV travel is not back to pre-pandemic levels, but it seems to be showing an upward trend. Overnights at RV parks are available in most cases without reservations, unless you’re trying to stay in an area where a special event is taking place, or over a holiday.

Lesa McDermott, VP of Operations at Girlcamper Lesa McDermott picture

With affordability and remote work driving new interest in RV living, what long-term trends do you foresee for RV travel? 

We’re seeing three big shifts: more part-time digital nomads taking extended trips, smaller and smarter RVs with features like solar power and lithium batteries, and a move toward experience-based travel. Overlanding is part of that — it’s about having the ability to camp anywhere, far from hookups, while still enjoying the essentials. I think RVing will keep expanding beyond the traditional summer vacation into a flexible lifestyle choice year-round.

Which under-the-radar U.S. destinations do you think are poised to become RV hot spots — and what makes them stand out?  

The next RV hot spots aren’t just the big-name national parks, but the towns and public lands nearby. Kanab, Utah is a gateway to multiple parks without the heavy crowds. The Driftless Area in Wisconsin offers scenic byways and river bluffs. Texas Hill Country blends wineries, wildflowers, and rivers. Alpena, Michigan is perfect for Great Lakes shipwrecks and dark-sky preserves. And for true off-grid magic, The Wall in South Dakota, where I’m currently camping, has some of the best boondocking views in the country. These places combine beauty, culture, and space to breathe — exactly what RVers are seeking now.

Fiorella Yriberry, Content Marketing Specialist at RVshare

How would you describe the current perception of RV travel? Have you noticed any major changes in how RVing is viewed now compared to the pre-pandemic era — or even during the height of the pandemic? 

RV travel is no longer just for retirees or weekend getaways. It’s now embraced by digital nomads, remote workers, young families, and adventure-seekers. Millennials and Gen Z now make up the majority of new RVers, representing 67% and 76% of travelers planning on taking an RV trip in 2025. 

Nathan Swartz, Editor-in-Chief at Wand’rly Magazine 

How would you describe the current perception of RV travel? Have you noticed any major changes in how RVing is viewed now compared to the pre-pandemic era — or even during the height of the pandemic? 

LTE service helped a lot of us get into the wilderness but still work. Now, with Starlink, many more people who wouldn’t have been able to — because they need to work over the Internet or just because they can’t bare to be without their Instagram — are able to get deep into the wilderness. That, and the way that Sprinter van conversions have made living in a van more comfortable and less intimidating than driving around a big RV, well you end up with a larger portion of folks ready to give the lifestyle a try!

Troy Bix, Toy Storage Nation Founder and Advisor Photo of man.

We’ve seen dedicated RV storage increase by 20% over the past decade. In your experience, what type of customer is driving this trend — and why now?

The pandemic inspired countless Americans of all ages to seek solace in the great outdoors, which drove RV and boat purchases higher than ever. Simultaneously planned communities keep popping up all over the nation with strict HOA rules prohibiting parking of RVs in driveways and backyards. People shell out a lot of money for their outdoor-rec toys, and they want to maintain them in mint condition—leading them to professional RV storage facilities. While RVing used to be associated with a senior lifestyle, remote work and just pure enjoyment of venturing outdoors has welcomed younger generations, and it shows no signs of slowing. Data collected by the RV Industry Association indicate all generations are buying motorhomes, campers and trailers in higher numbers. At the same time, Toy Storage Nation research indicates five times the number of current storage units is needed to house them. Demand far outweighs supply when it comes to RV and boat storage space.

Methodology

This analysis was conducted by StorageCafe, an online platform offering nationwide listings for storage units. To assess the suitability of U.S. cities for top RV destinations, we constructed a weighted index composed of nine major categories.

We retained only cities with a minimum of 10 camps in the ranking.

Data on self storage comes from Yardi Matrix, StorageCafe’s sister division and a business development and asset management tool for brokers, sponsors, banks and equity sources underwriting investments in the multifamily, office, industrial and self storage sectors.

Fair use

This study serves as a resource for the general public on issues of common interest and should not be regarded as investment advice. The data is true to the best of our knowledge but may change if amendments to it are made. We agree to the distribution of this content, but we do require a mention in return for attribution purposes.

Anca Lenta
Written by
Anca Lenta

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