Top 5 Things to Do in Any RV Destination

Patty and Shane Gill kayaking on a lake.
Patty and Shane Gill in front of their Patty Jayco Eagle fifth wheel.
Patty and Shane Gill in front of their Patty Jayco Eagle fifth wheel.

Patty & Shane Gill

THOR Ambassador

Shane and Patty spent 24 years traveling overseas while Shane served in the Air Force. After becoming empty nesters, they set their sights on exploring the U.S. In 2020, they hit the road to discover the beauty of their own backyard. Now in their fifth year of RVing, they've journeyed through 30 states and are continuing their adventure to visit all 50 states in their Jayco Eagle Fifth Wheel.

Traveling by RV opens the door to endless adventures...

from National Parks and scenic coastlines to small towns and bustling cities. Every destination offers something special, whether it's epic outdoor experiences, local flavors, or hidden roadside gems. To help you make the most of your journey, we’ve rounded up the top five things to do in any RV destination—so you can explore like a pro, no matter where you park.

1. Explore the Local Outdoors

No matter where you are, there's bound to be something beautiful just outside your RV door. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy nature in every setting:

National & State Parks

  • Stop by the visitor center first—they’re full of tips, maps, and local history.
  • Join a ranger-led program to learn more about the area.
  • Hike, bike, or take a scenic drive through the park.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view

A man and woman standing in front of the entrance to Olympic National Park

Beach Towns

  • Walk the shoreline, soak up the sun, or go for a swim.
  • Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or even a deep-sea fishing trip.
  • Don’t miss out on the fresh local seafood.

Mountain Towns

  • Head out on a waterfall hike or hit the backroads with an off-road tour.
  • Look for local trails that offer stunning views or quiet forest escapes.

Desert Stops

  • Explore rock formations, go off-roading, or sled down sand dunes.
  • At night, gather around a campfire under the stars—desert skies never disappoint.

2. Eat Like a Local: Mom & Pop Restaurants, Breweries & Wineries

One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food and drink.

  • Try a local brewery or winery—most towns have at least one worth checking out.
  • Look for farm-to-table spots and small-town favorites.
  • We love finding places featured on shows like Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives—they never disappoint.

A woman standing in front of whisky barrels at a distillery

3. Visit a Unique Local Attraction

Every town has something quirky or memorable—here's what we look for:

  • Offbeat stops like the world’s largest rocking chair or a tiny ghost town.
  • Natural wonders like hot springs or secret hikes known only to locals.
  • Small-town museums that share local history, art, or culture.

Whether it's a roadside oddity or a hidden trail, these are the moments that make RV travel so special.

4. Connect with the RV Community

Some of the best memories come from the people you meet on the road.

  • Join campground events like potlucks, bingo, happy hours, or game nights.
  • If you follow other RVers on social media, reach out and meet up in real life.
  • Community is a huge part of RV life—don’t be afraid to say hi.

5. Discover Local Events & Festivals

Nothing immerses you in a new place quite like a local event.

  • Check out farmers' markets to support local growers and artisans.
  • Search for food festivals, seasonal events, or live music nights.
  • Attend cultural festivals for a deeper connection to the community.
A woman sitting on a rocky ledge toward the ocean
A woman sitting inside the Route 66 sign in Illinois
A man and woman standing in front of a riverboat

Bonus: Our Favorite Tools for Trip Planning

We rely on a few tried-and-true apps and websites to uncover the best things to do:

Great for “things to do” and restaurant recommendations.

Find unique attractions and off-the-beaten-path stops

Helps with boondocking spots and points of interest like hot springs.

Discover campgrounds and nearby outdoor adventures.

Our go-to hiking app for trails with difficulty ratings and reviews.

Connects you to farms, museums, wineries, and more.

Wherever your RV takes you, these five activities will help you uncover the best every destination has to offer. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, eating your way through town, or meeting fellow travelers, RV life is about freedom, flexibility, and unforgettable experiences.

So get out there, explore boldly, and make memories that stick.

Fifth Wheels

Popular among extended travel RVers, fifth wheels are designed for easier, more stable towing. Living space is maximized with additional over-cab space. This camping trailer—affectionately nicknamed a "fiver"—is a favorite of many, especially those taking extended trips or traveling full time in their RV. The prominent overhang resting above the tow truck bed is frequently employed as a bedroom suite, a living room, even a kitchen.

Jayco Eagle Fifth Wheel

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