New England RV Road Trip Guide

An RV road trip through New England is probably the best way to explore the region’s charmingly quaint and small towns, impossibly gorgeous coastlines, and expansive history. It’s on my bucket list, and one day it will happen.

I love taking road trips, and road trips are sooo comfortable and fun in an RV. After all, it’s not called a motorhome for nothing! Plus, when you travel by RV, you soak up the places you visit on a slower, deeper level. It’s immersive and you can make more stops, and see different parts of towns than you normally would when traveling by plane or car. 

Another thing I love is food. Embrace the local cuisine. Get out of your comfort zone. New England is known for its delicious seafood, maple syrup, clam chowder, lobster rolls, and more. Embrace the local cuisine and try regional specialties at seafood shacks, local restaurants, and farmers’ markets along your journey.

But first, let’s talk about RV Rentals.

Where to rent an RV in New England?

What are the best times of year to visit New England in an RV?

That totally depends on you and your family’s needs and availability. The best times to visit New England in an RV are probably in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Fall–because of the beautiful foliage, and Spring the weather is still very nice. Summer is great for outdoor activities and beach trips, but it tends to be hotter and more crowded. But if your family only has 2 weeks in the middle of July, then that’s absolutely the best time.

Be sure to plan in advance, though! Seems like everyone has caught on to RV trips, and New England is no exception. Book far in advance if you can. Some campgrounds book out 6 months in advance, but its not unheard of to nab a last minute “walk-up” spot, so don’t be afraid to call and find out if a particular campground saves spots for travelers.

Are there any roads to be avoided in an RV?

While there are no specific highways in New England that should be entirely avoided by RVs, it’s worth noting that some roads in the region may present challenges for larger vehicles. Here are a few considerations:

• Route 1A: This scenic coastal road can be narrow and winding in certain sections, so it’s important to drive with caution, especially in congested areas.
• Route 6: Also known as the Mid-Cape Highway, this road traverses Cape Cod and can experience heavy traffic during peak tourist seasons. Plan accordingly and be patient.
• Mountainous Areas: Some routes in Vermont, New Hampshire, and western Massachusetts feature mountainous terrain with steep grades and sharp curves. Pay attention to road signs and recommended speed limits.
• Historic Downtown Areas: Many New England towns have charming but narrow streets, particularly in their historic downtown areas. Be cautious when navigating through these areas, as they may not be RV-friendly.

Rhode Island Must Visit Towns

• Newport: Famous for its opulent mansions, Newport also offers beautiful beaches, a historic waterfront, and charming streets.
• Bristol: Home to the oldest Independence Day parade in the country, Bristol is a charming town with a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
• Wickford: With its waterfront setting and historic homes, Wickford exudes small-town charm and New England character.

Best RV Parks in Rhode Island

• Fishermen’s Memorial State Park: Located in Narragansett, this state park offers spacious RV sites with water and electric hookups. It’s situated near beautiful beaches and offers amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and a boat ramp.
• Wawaloam Campground: Situated in Richmond, Wawaloam Campground provides full-hookup RV sites along with amenities such as swimming pools, mini-golf, a fishing pond, and organized activities for families.
• Whispering Pines Campground: Located in Hope Valley, this campground offers RV sites with full hookups, including cable TV and Wi-Fi. It features a swimming pool, playground, game room, and hiking trails.
• Burlingame State Park: Situated in Charlestown, Burlingame State Park offers wooded RV sites with electric and water hookups. It’s known for its scenic beauty, freshwater swimming beach, and opportunities for boating and fishing.
• Melville Ponds Campground: Located in Portsmouth, Melville Ponds Campground offers RV sites with water and electric hookups. It features amenities such as a swimming pool, sports courts, fishing ponds, and hiking trails.

Things to do in Rhode Island

• The Breakers: Tour this magnificent mansion in Newport, showcasing the grandeur of the Gilded Age.
• Roger Williams Park Zoo: Visit this family-friendly zoo in Providence, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world.
• Newport Cliff Walk: Stroll along this scenic trail, offering stunning views of the coastline and historic mansions.

Connecticut Must Visit Towns

• Mystic: Known for its maritime history, Mystic offers a charming waterfront, historic sites, and delicious seafood.
• Essex: This picturesque town is home to beautifully preserved colonial architecture, quaint shops, and scenic river views.
• Litchfield: With its historic village green and well-preserved 18th-century homes, Litchfield exudes New England charm.

Best RV Parks in Connecticut

• Strawberry Park RV Resort: Located in Preston, CT, this resort offers a wide range of amenities, including a pool, hot tubs, sports facilities, and even a fully-stocked fishing pond.
• Riverdale Farm Campsites: Located in Clinton, CT, this family-friendly campground offers a range of activities for guests of all ages, including mini-golf, swimming, and organized events.
• Witch Meadow Lake Family Campground: Located in Salem, CT, this scenic campground offers lakefront campsites, fishing opportunities, and a range of amenities, including a pool and game room.
• Lone Oak Campsites: Located in East Canaan, CT, this campground offers spacious, wooded campsites, a swimming pool, and a range of outdoor activities.
• Sunfox Campground: Located in Lisbon, CT, this peaceful campground offers spacious sites, hiking trails, and a range of amenities, including a pool and sports facilities.

Things to do in Connecticut

• Mystic Seaport Museum: Explore the maritime history of Connecticut through interactive exhibits and historic vessels.
• Yale University: Visit this prestigious Ivy League institution and explore its beautiful campus and renowned museums.
• Connecticut Science Center: Engage in hands-on science exhibits and activities for all ages.

Massachusetts Must Visit Towns

• Salem: Famous for its witch trials, Salem is a historic city with a vibrant arts and cultural scene.
• Concord: Home to literary greats like Louisa May Alcott and Ralph Waldo Emerson, Concord is filled with literary history and scenic beauty.
• Chatham: Located on Cape Cod, Chatham boasts quaint streets, beautiful beaches, and a charming downtown area.

Best RV Parks in Massachusetts

• Shady Knoll Campground: Located in Brewster, Shady Knoll Campground offers spacious RV sites with full hookups, Wi-Fi access, and a variety of amenities such as swimming pool, playground, and game room.
• Sweetwater Forest Campground: Situated in Brewster as well, Sweetwater Forest Campground provides RV sites nestled among pine trees. The campground offers amenities like swimming pond, mini-golf, hiking trails, and organized activities.
• Adventure Bound Cape Cod: Situated in North Truro, Adventure Bound Cape Cod is a family-friendly campground offering RV sites with full hookups, as well as tent sites and cabin rentals. The campground provides amenities like a swimming pool, game room, playground, and organized activities.
• Peters Pond RV Resort: Located in Sandwich, Peters Pond RV Resort offers spacious RV sites surrounded by woods and a scenic pond. The resort features amenities such as a swimming beach, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and organized activities.
• Normandy Farms Campground: This campground is located in Foxboro and offers full hookups, pools, sports facilities, and more.
• Boston / Cape Cod KOA Holiday: Located in Middleboro, this campground offers easy access to Boston and Cape Cod. Like many KOA’s, this campground has full hookups, a pool, playground, and more.
• Adventure Bound Camping Resort: This campground offers RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities like a pool, playground, and basketball court.
• Bourne Scenic Park: Located right on the Cape Cod Canal, this campground offers RV sites with water and electric hookups, as well as easy access to biking and walking trails.
• Shady Knoll Campground: This family-friendly campground offers spacious RV sites with full hookups, as well as a pool, playground, and game room.
• Peters Pond RV Resort: This resort-style campground offers RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities like a pool, hot tub, and miniature golf course.
• Atlantic Oaks Campground: This campground offers RV sites with full hookups, as well as amenities like a pool, playground, and dog park. It’s also just a short drive from the beaches of Cape Cod.
• Sweetwater Forest: Located in nearby Brewster, this campground offers wooded RV sites with water and electric hookups, as well as a pool, playground, and fishing pond.
• Sweetwater Forest: This RV park is located in Brewster and offers wooded sites, full hookups, a pool, playground, and more.
• Pine Acres Family Camping Resort: This RV park is located in Oakham and offers full hookups, a pool, sports facilities, and more.
• Wells State Park: This state park offers RV camping in Sturbridge, with access to hiking trails, a lake, and more.

Things to do in Massachusetts

• Freedom Trail: Walk along this historic trail in Boston, visiting significant sites related to the American Revolution.
• Fenway Park: Catch a baseball game at the iconic home of the Boston Red Sox.
• Plimoth Plantation: Step back in time to the 17th century and experience life in a recreated Pilgrim settlement.
• Boston Calling Music Festival, Boston: Enjoy a weekend of live music from renowned artists across various genres in the heart of Boston. This event takes place in May.

Vermont Must Visit Towns

• Stowe: Nestled in the Green Mountains, Stowe is a charming town with a vibrant arts community, boutique shops, and outdoor activities.
• Woodstock: Known for its picturesque village green, covered bridges, and historic buildings, Woodstock is a quintessential Vermont town.
• Manchester: Surrounded by scenic beauty, Manchester offers a blend of outdoor adventure, upscale shopping, and a charming downtown.

Best RV Parks in Vermont

• Lone Pine Campsites: Located in the town of Colchester, this family-owned RV park offers spacious sites, a heated pool, a playground, and easy access to Lake Champlain.
• Quechee Pine Valley KOA: This KOA campground is situated in a peaceful valley in the town of White River Junction. It offers wooded and open sites, a pool, mini golf, and access to hiking and biking trails.
• Abel Mountain Campground: Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, this campground in the town of Braintree offers shaded and sunny sites, a pool, fishing pond, playground, and basketball court.
• Green Mountain Family Campground: Situated in Bristol, this RV park is surrounded by scenic mountains and features spacious sites, a pool, playground, and a game room.
• Lazy Lions Campground: This peaceful campground in the town of Graniteville offers large sites, a pool, a fishing pond, and easy access to hiking trails.

Things to do in Vermont

• Ben & Jerry’s Factory: Take a factory tour and indulge in delicious ice cream samples at the famous Ben & Jerry’s facility.
• Shelburne Museum: Explore a vast collection of Americana and art exhibits in a picturesque open-air museum setting.
• Stowe Mountain Resort: Experience outdoor adventures year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and biking in summer.
• Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival, Stowe: Witness the spectacle of catapults launching pumpkins across fields and enjoy a day of fun-filled activities for the whole family. Event takes place in October.

New Hampshire Must Visit Towns

• Portsmouth: This historic seaport city offers beautifully preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and a lively downtown area.
• Hanover: Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover combines small-town charm with a vibrant arts and intellectual community.
• Jackson: Tucked in the White Mountains, Jackson is a picturesque village known for its covered bridges and scenic beauty.

Best RV Parks in New Hampshire

• Fransted Family Campground: located in the heart of the Lakes Region, this family-friendly campground offers spacious sites and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, playground, and game room.
• White Mountains Camping & RV Park: situated in the beautiful White Mountains, this park is known for its stunning views and convenient location. It offers full hook-up sites, a heated swimming pool, and a range of recreational activities.
• Goose Hollow Campground – nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains, this peaceful campground features spacious sites and a tranquil setting. It offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, playground, and game room.
• Twin Mountain Motor Court & RV Park: located just minutes from some of the area’s top attractions, this park offers a mix of RV sites and motel rooms. It features a swimming pool, game room, and easy access to hiking and biking trails.
• Woodstock KOA: situated in the heart of the White Mountains, this KOA campground offers a range of RV sites, cabins, and tent sites. It features a heated swimming pool, mini-golf course, and easy access to nearby attractions.

Things to do in New Hampshire

• White Mountain National Forest: Explore scenic drives, hike mountain trails, and admire breathtaking views in this outdoor paradise.
• Story Land: Delight in a family-friendly amusement park with themed rides and attractions based on classic storybook tales.
• Mount Washington Cog Railway: Take a memorable train ride up the highest peak in the Northeast and enjoy panoramic views.
• Market Square Day, Portsmouth: Experience the largest one-day festival in New Hampshire, featuring food vendors, arts and crafts, live music, and entertainment. Takes place in June.

Maine Must Visit Towns

• Bar Harbor: A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor features charming streets, coastal scenery, and outdoor activities.
• Camden: Nestled on Penobscot Bay, Camden offers a picturesque harbor, boutique shops, and stunning views from Mount Battie.
• Kennebunkport: Known for its sandy beaches and charming coastal village, Kennebunkport is a popular destination with historic charm.

Best RV Parks in Maine

• Acadia National Park: Blackwoods Campground: Located on Mount Desert Island, this campground offers stunning views of the surrounding forests and coastline. It has over 300 sites with amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and flush toilets.
• Mount Desert Narrows Camping Resort: Another great option on Mount Desert Island, this resort offers waterfront sites with full hookups, as well as cabins and cottages for rent. It has amenities such as a heated pool, playground, and boat rentals.
• Sebago Lake Family Campground: This campground is located on the shores of Sebago Lake, the second-largest lake in Maine. It has over 600 sites, many with lake views, and amenities such as a private beach, boat rentals, and a game room.
• Narrows Too Camping Resort: Located on the coast of Maine in Bar Harbor, this resort offers waterfront sites with full hookups and amenities such as a heated pool, hot tub, and shuttle to Acadia National Park.
• Saco/Old Orchard Beach KOA Holiday: This campground is located just a few miles from the beach in Old Orchard Beach, and offers over 200 sites with amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and bike rentals.
• Bayley’s Camping Resort: This resort is located near the southern coast of Maine and offers over 700 sites with amenities such as a pool, hot tub, and beach shuttle.

Things to do in Maine

• Acadia National Park: Discover stunning coastal landscapes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy outdoor activities in this iconic national park.
• Portland Head Light: Visit one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States, offering picturesque views of the Maine coast.
• Funtown Splashtown USA: Enjoy thrilling rides, water slides, and family entertainment at this amusement park in Saco.
• Yarmouth Clam Festival, Yarmouth: Celebrate Maine’s seafood heritage with live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts, and, of course, plenty of delicious clams. This event takes place in July.

Embarking on an RV adventure through the enchanting landscapes of New England promises an unforgettable journey. From the charming coastal towns and scenic drives to the rich history and mouthwatering cuisine, New England is a diverse tapestry of experiences. Soak in the beauty of the region’s changing seasons, immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, and create lasting memories as you navigate the winding roads and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, admiring the fall foliage in Vermont, or indulging in fresh lobster rolls in Maine, an RV trip through New England is an invitation to savor the charm, history, and natural wonders that make this region truly remarkable. So buckle up, hit the road, and let the spirit of adventure guide you through the wonders of New England’s RV-friendly destinations.