The open road beckons, and your trusty van is your loyal companion. As a vanlifer, you crave not just the freedom of the highway, but also the unique experiences hidden off the beaten path. Beyond the iconic national parks and bustling cities lie undiscovered gems waiting to be explored. So, fuel up your wanderlust and gear up for adventure as we unveil 10 hidden treasures across the USA perfect for your next vanlife escapade:
1. Valley of the Gods, Utah: Escape the crowds of Monument Valley and delve into the Valley of the Gods, a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) designated recreation area near Mexican Hat, Utah. This otherworldly landscape boasts towering sandstone formations sculpted by wind and time, offering breathtaking backdrops for photography and stargazing. Dispersed camping is permitted, allowing you to wake up amidst the majestic scenery and reconnect with nature.
2. White Sands National Park, New Mexico: Embark on a surreal adventure into the heart of the White Sands National Park in New Mexico. Hike, bike, or sand sled across the otherworldly gypsum dunes, the largest dunefield in North America. Camping options include designated campgrounds and primitive dispersed camping areas, allowing you to choose your level of solitude. Witness the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets as the dunes transform into a sea of golden hues.
3. The Ozarks, Missouri and Arkansas: Escape the urban jungle and delve into the enchanted beauty of the Ozark Mountains, spanning Missouri and Arkansas. Explore the Mark Twain National Forest, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and crystal-clear streams perfect for swimming and kayaking. Numerous campgrounds cater to vanlifers, while charming towns like Eureka Springs, Arkansas, offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and local culture.
4. The Olympic Peninsula, Washington: Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state. Hike through the lush rainforests of Olympic National Park, marvel at the cascading waterfalls, and witness the majestic wildlife, including bald eagles and orcas. Explore the charming coastal towns like Port Townsend and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities cater to vanlifers, allowing you to find your perfect basecamp for exploring the diverse landscapes.
5. The Driftless Area, Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois: Discover the unique geological marvel known as the Driftless Area, encompassing parts of Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and Illinois. This region escaped glaciation during the last ice age, resulting in a landscape characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and hidden waterfalls. Explore the charming towns like Spring Green, Wisconsin, the setting for the House on the Rock, or McGregor, Iowa, known for its annual bald eagle watching festival. Campgrounds and dispersed camping opportunities are available, providing a haven for vanlifers to connect with the unique beauty of the region.
6. The Outer Banks, North Carolina: Experience the coastal charm of the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Cruise down scenic highways, explore the barrier islands known for their pristine beaches and wildlife, and unwind amidst the laid-back atmosphere of coastal towns. Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers camping options, allowing you to park your van and enjoy the sound of the waves lulling you to sleep. Be sure to sample the fresh local seafood and explore the rich maritime history of the region.
7. The Black Hills, South Dakota: Venture into the legendary Black Hills of South Dakota, home to Mount Rushmore and a treasure trove of historical sites. Explore the scenic byways, hike through the forested hills, and delve into the rich culture of the Lakota people. Custer State Park offers numerous campgrounds and scenic spots to park your van, while charming towns like Deadwood offer a glimpse into the Wild West past.
8. The San Juan Islands, Washington: Embark on an island-hopping adventure in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Washington state. Explore the charming towns like Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, kayak through the turquoise waters, and witness the diverse wildlife, including orcas and seals. Camping options are available on several islands, allowing you to experience the tranquility of island life.
9. The Big Bend Country, Texas: Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the vastness of the Big Bend Country in Texas. This region, encompassing Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, boasts dramatic mountain ranges, deep canyons, and the Rio Grande River snaking through the landscape. Hike through diverse ecosystems, explore ancient cave dwellings, and marvel at the star-filled night sky. Designated campgrounds are available within the parks, offering a base for exploring this remarkable region.
10. The Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada: Step into a fiery landscape at the Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada. Hike through red sandstone canyons sculpted by millions of years of wind and erosion, marvel at ancient petroglyphs left by indigenous people, and witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the rock formations in vibrant hues. Designated campgrounds cater to vanlifers, providing a front-row seat to the park's natural wonders.
This list merely scratches the surface of the hidden treasures waiting to be discovered across the vast expanse of the United States. Remember, the beauty of van life lies in the freedom to explore and the flexibility to create your own unique adventure. So, fuel up your van, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to unveil the hidden gems that await on the open road!
Bonus Tip: Remember, most BLM land is open to campers (van or otherwise), but before venturing off the beaten path, research local regulations regarding dispersed camping and ensure you leave no trace to preserve the beauty of these hidden gems for future generations of vanlifers to enjoy.
Additional resource websites:
1. The Dyrt: https://thedyrt.com/
This comprehensive website and app allows you to find and book campsites across the United States, including campgrounds specifically designated for vanlifers. It also features user reviews, photos, and detailed information about amenities and nearby attractions.
2. Freecampsites.net: https://freecampsites.net/#!Usa
As the name suggests, Freecampsites.net is a valuable resource for finding free dispersed camping locations across the USA. While amenities may be limited at these sites, they offer vanlifers the opportunity to camp in unique and secluded locations.
3. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) - Camping: https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages vast swathes of public land across the United States, many of which allow for dispersed camping. The BLM website provides information on specific locations, regulations, and permits required for camping on BLM land.
4. Harvest Hosts: https://harvesthosts.com/
Harvest Hosts is a membership-based boondocking program that allows vanlifers to stay overnight for free at wineries, farms, breweries, and other unique locations across the country. In exchange for the free stay, members are encouraged to support the host by purchasing products or enjoying a meal.