Exploring the United States in a camper van offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. With diverse landscapes, iconic landmarks, and scenic byways, the country is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. Here are some of the top camper van routes in the USA that you should add to your travel bucket list.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, is one of the most scenic drives in the world. Stretching from San Francisco to San Diego, this route offers breathtaking coastal views, charming seaside towns, and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Big Sur.
Highlights:
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Big Sur
- Monterey Bay
- Santa Barbara
- Malibu
2. Route 66 (Illinois to California)
Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 is a historic route that takes you from Chicago to Santa Monica. This iconic drive offers a nostalgic journey through classic Americana, with quirky roadside attractions, vintage motels, and diners.
Highlights:
- Gateway Arch (St. Louis)
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas)
- Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
- Santa Monica Pier (California)
3. Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia to North Carolina)
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic highway that winds through the Appalachian Mountains. Known for its stunning vistas, vibrant fall foliage, and charming small towns, this route is perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights:
- Shenandoah National Park
- Blue Ridge Music Center
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Asheville, North Carolina
4. Great River Road (Minnesota to Louisiana)
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from its source in Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico. This 3,000-mile route offers a journey through diverse cultures, historic sites, and beautiful river landscapes.
Highlights:
- Mississippi River Headwaters (Minnesota)
- St. Louis Arch (Missouri)
- Natchez Trace Parkway (Mississippi)
- New Orleans (Louisiana)
5. Overseas Highway (Florida)
The Overseas Highway, or Highway 1, stretches from Miami to Key West. This 113-mile drive takes you across a series of stunning bridges and islands, offering turquoise waters, coral reefs, and the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys.
Highlights:
- Seven Mile Bridge
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Key Largo
- Key West
6. Scenic Byway 12 (Utah)
Scenic Byway 12 is a 124-mile route that runs through southern Utah’s stunning red rock country. This drive offers access to several national parks and monuments, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
Highlights:
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Kodachrome Basin State Park
7. Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)
Located in Glacier National Park, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a 50-mile scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. This route is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable mountain adventure.
Highlights:
- Lake McDonald
- Logan Pass
- St. Mary Lake
- Many Glacier
8. Hana Highway (Hawaii)
The Hana Highway, or Highway 360, is a 64-mile drive along the northeastern coast of Maui. This route offers lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning ocean views, making it one of the most beautiful drives in Hawaii.
Highlights:
- Twin Falls
- Wailua Valley State Wayside
- Hana Town
- Haleakalā National Park
9. Natchez Trace Parkway (Tennessee to Mississippi)
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic drive that follows a historic travel corridor used by Native Americans and early European settlers. This route offers beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and recreational opportunities.
Highlights:
- Meriwether Lewis Monument (Tennessee)
- Pharr Mounds (Mississippi)
- Cypress Swamp (Mississippi)
- Natchez National Historical Park (Mississippi)
10. Beartooth Highway (Montana to Wyoming)
The Beartooth Highway, or Highway 212, is a 68-mile route that takes you through the stunning Beartooth Mountains. Known for its dramatic scenery and high elevations, this drive is perfect for those seeking adventure and breathtaking views.
Highlights:
- Red Lodge (Montana)
- Beartooth Pass
- Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness
- Yellowstone National Park (Northeast Entrance)
Conclusion
These top camper van routes in the USA offer a diverse array of landscapes and experiences, from coastal drives and mountain passes to historic routes and scenic byways. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time adventurer, these routes will provide unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the United States.