When you’re looking for the top places to RV, or camp in the summer, you’ll want to consider the weather in the areas you’re visiting. Some popular destinations like desert areas can be very hot at this time of year, while other U.S. spots suffer from humidity and you’d probably have a more pleasant time visiting those earlier in the summer.
However, many mountain regions hit their prime about then and can be some of the best mid-summer RV spots. Keep in mind, however, that the fine weather in these places can mean they could be crowded. Check ahead on whether you need reservations for campgrounds or for any activities you plan to do.
When planning your trip, consider some of the following places.
Olympic National Park
Washington
This is a park that benefits from its northern location and is cooler in August than a lot of the country. Thanks to the rain that permeates the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find plenty of shady trees and you can head for the mountains or the ocean to cool off on hot days – the park encompasses them both. There are campgrounds both inside the park and outside that cater to RVs and trailers. The Hoh Campground inside Olympic National Park is surrounded by shady trees and has a rainforest-like atmosphere for some cooler camping.
Lake Tahoe
California and Nevada
Lake Tahoe is nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, and is the largest freshwater lake in that range. Thanks to its mountain location, temperatures around the lake stay mild in summer. Then again, those headed to the lake are likely planning to spend their days swimming, paddle boarding, boating, and fishing and will be cooling off in the lake anyway. There are many places to camp around Lake Tahoe, so whether you want to be near the excitement of the casinos in Nevada, or closer to nature at one of the state parks, there’s something for everyone.
Redwood National Park
California
Redwood is on the coast of northern California, and coastal weather means the area doesn’t get too hot in summer. In fact, temperatures year-round usually only fluctuate between 40-60 degrees F. Spend your day hiking through some of the tallest trees on earth, or head down to the shore to investigate tidepools and do some whale watching. There are also a variety of ranger programs, and Native American tribes demonstrate traditional dances during summer months. You can camp inside the park, or in the many small towns nearby including Klamath, McKinleyville, and Eureka.
Glacier National Park
Montana
Because it sits so far north, sharing a border with Canada, and because it also sits in the middle of the Rockies, August is the perfect time to visit Glacier National Park. Early summer can still be cold, and can even get snow, but by August temperatures are usually in the 70s and the weather is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, and even swimming in the many glacial lakes. Going-to-the-Sun Road, the scenic route through the park, is also more likely to be open later in the summer. These campgrounds, both inside Glacier, and in the quaint towns nearby, offer accommodations and hookups for RVs.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado
Like Glacier, RMNP hits its stride in late summer. Lakes and creeks are warmer for swimming and wading. Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuously paved road in the U.S. is reliably open, and the chance for late spring and early summer snowstorms has passed (although no one can absolutely guarantee it won’t snow in August!). Watch for wildlife, and hike, cycle, or take in one of the many ranger programs offered throughout the park. You can camp in one of the campgrounds in the park, or in nearby Estes Park or Grand Lake.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Michigan
Tahquamenon Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the state, towering 50 feet up and stretching more than 200 feet across. This campground’s site in the Upper Peninsula means the weather is generally cooler than many other places in the country. The Park also has 40 miles of hiking trails, and is not too far from the shore if you want to spend a day at the beach. There are several options for camping inside the park, as well as some campgrounds nearby.
Button Bay State Park
Vermont
Button Bay offers beautiful views of Lake Champlain, and the chilly region that can be bitterly cold in winter is just perfect in August. Visitors can boat or fish on the lake, hike, or take in a ranger program. The areas around Button Bay also have plenty of museums, shopping, and restaurants. You can camp inside the park or at any nearby campgrounds.
Acadia National Park
Maine
Maine’s August weather is just about perfect, which means Acadia can get somewhat crowded. However, you’ll find plenty to do at this gorgeous park. Take in the view atop Cadillac Mountain, do some hiking, and see the park’s 16 historic stone bridges. Visitors also enjoy hiking, bicycling, bird watching, boating, fishing, and more. You can camp inside the park, or at one of the many campgrounds nearby. Be sure to save some time to visit towns like Bar Harbor and Somesville while you’re in the area.
Assateague State Park
Maryland
Camping at Assateague in August is actually a mixed bag. The temperatures themselves don’t get too high (rarely above the mid-80s) but there can be humidity and bugs. However, the warmer weather extends to the water as well – the warmest ocean temperatures are in July and August and visitors can swim comfortably without a wetsuit. The horses that are the area’s biggest draw are on the island year-round and make this a unique vacation spot. Be aware that August is one of the most popular times for vacationers and plan accordingly for crowds and reservations. You can camp at the park or at a nearby campground.
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