Exploring America’s great outdoors in an RV or motorhome is one of the most rewarding travel experiences you can have. The freedom to move at your own pace, the comfort of your vehicle, and the beauty of untouched nature make for the perfect combination.
If you’re planning your next road adventure, these 10 national forests deserve a place on your bucket list. Each one offers something unique from coastal rainforests and snow-capped peaks to canyons, lakes, and scenic drives that make every mile unforgettable.
1. Tongass National Forest, Alaska
Stretching across Southeast Alaska, the Tongass National Forest is the largest in the United States and one of the most pristine places on Earth. Here, glaciers meet temperate rainforests, and wildlife like bears, eagles, and salmon thrive.
If you enjoy solitude, wilderness, and dramatic scenery, this forest offers endless exploration. You can travel along scenic routes, take ferry rides, and camp near crystal-clear streams.
Tip: Some areas are remote, so plan carefully and ensure your RV is prepared for rugged terrain and cooler weather.
2. Shasta–Trinity National Forest, California
In Northern California, the Shasta–Trinity National Forest combines alpine beauty with peaceful lakes and hiking trails. Towering Mount Shasta provides a stunning backdrop, while the Trinity Alps offer countless outdoor activities.
This forest is ideal for RV travellers who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll find scenic drives, lakefront campgrounds, and fishing spots all surrounded by breathtaking views.
Why visit: It’s one of the most diverse forests in California, with something for every season snow in winter, flowers in spring, and perfect weather in summer.
3. Gila National Forest, New Mexico
The Gila National Forest brings a different kind of beauty rugged, rocky, and wild. With deep canyons, mesas, and hot springs, it’s a dream for travellers seeking peace and natural wonder.
It’s also home to the Gila Cliff Dwellings, an ancient site that adds a touch of history to your outdoor experience. The mix of hiking, wildlife, and geothermal relaxation makes it truly one of a kind.
Tip: Some areas are remote, so check the condition of forest roads before heading in with a motorhome.
4. Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming
Bighorn National Forest, located in northern Wyoming, offers dramatic mountain scenery without the crowds of Yellowstone. You’ll find alpine meadows, waterfalls, canyons, and scenic drives that rival any national park.
It’s perfect for travellers who want to experience rugged beauty and peaceful camping spots. Elk, moose, and deer are common, and the stargazing here is exceptional.
Tip: Be prepared for changing weather and higher elevations, especially if travelling in spring or autumn.
5. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire and Maine
If you’re exploring the Northeast, the White Mountain National Forest is a must-visit. Known for its year-round charm, this forest offers everything from autumn foliage to winter skiing and summer hiking.
With over a thousand miles of trails, scenic highways like the Kancamagus, and countless RV-friendly campgrounds, it’s one of the most accessible natural escapes on the East Coast.
Why it’s special: The fall colours are extraordinary, making it one of the best leaf-peeping destinations in America.
6. Olympic National Forest, Washington
On the Olympic Peninsula, this forest delivers variety like no other beaches, rainforests, and mountains all in one region.
You can spend one day walking among moss-covered trees and the next exploring coastal tide pools or snow-dusted peaks. The drives are scenic, and there are several RV-accessible campgrounds near major routes.
Tip: Expect changing weather pack layers and enjoy the misty charm that makes the Pacific Northwest unforgettable.
7. Beaverhead–Deerlodge National Forest, Montana
Montana’s largest national forest is pure wilderness. With its vast mountains, crystal lakes, and quiet valleys, it’s the perfect place for solitude seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
For RV travellers, there are plenty of roads and dispersed camping spots to enjoy under starry skies. Wildlife is abundant, and you can even trace parts of the historic Lewis and Clark Trail.
Why go: It’s less crowded than major parks but equally breathtaking ideal for long, peaceful drives.
8. Kaibab National Forest, Arizona
Bordering the Grand Canyon, Kaibab National Forest gives you access to stunning rim views, pine forests, and hidden canyons.
It’s divided into the North and South Kaibab areas, both offering scenic drives and RV camping options. You can enjoy panoramic lookouts, quiet trails, and proximity to the Grand Canyon without the rush of crowds.
Tip: The North Rim is cooler and less busy; plan ahead as some roads close in winter due to snow.
9. Sierra National Forest, California
Located near Yosemite, the Sierra National Forest offers majestic mountains, alpine lakes, and endless hiking trails. It’s one of the most accessible forests for travellers exploring California’s natural wonders.
With campgrounds suitable for RVs and motorhomes, you can relax beside lakes like Shaver or Huntington, surrounded by towering pines and granite cliffs.
Why it’s worth it: It’s the perfect mix of accessibility and adventure, especially if you want Yosemite-style beauty without the crowds.
10. Siskiyou National Forest, Oregon–California Border
Stretching across southern Oregon and northern California, Siskiyou National Forest blends rugged coastline, lush mountains, and tranquil rivers.
For RV travellers, it’s a paradise of scenic drives and quiet campgrounds, far from the tourist bustle. You can explore redwood groves, coastal trails, and even hidden waterfalls.
Tip: The forest roads are scenic but winding take your time, drive safely, and enjoy every mile of this Pacific Northwest gem.
Planning Your RV Trip Through National Forests
Before setting off on your next adventure, a few planning tips will make your trip smoother:
- Choose the right season: Summer for accessibility, autumn for colours, spring for mild weather.
- Check road conditions: Some forest roads are narrow or unpaved; ensure your RV can handle them.
- Book campsites early: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially in national forest campgrounds.
- Stay self-sufficient: Carry water, fuel, and food, especially when visiting remote areas.
- Leave no trace: Keep forests clean for future travellers.
Travelling through national forests in a motorhome or luxury caravan allows you to enjoy nature comfortably and responsibly.
Final Thoughts
National forests represent the wild heart of America peaceful, vast, and diverse. Whether you’re chasing mountain views in Alaska, desert canyons in Arizona, or lush green trails in Washington, each destination brings something special.
For RV travellers, these forests aren’t just stops on a map they’re experiences waiting to be lived. Add them to your bucket list, rent your dream motorhome from RVRentals.us, and start your next great American road adventure.
