As Thanksgiving approaches, many gather around a traditional table, but for those seeking a unique holiday experience, why not hit the road and celebrate Thanksgiving in your RV? RVing for Thanksgiving opens up endless possibilities for adventure, nature, and bonding with fellow travelers. There’s no better way to embrace the spirit of gratitude than at one of the top campgrounds for Thanksgiving. Whether you prefer serene coastal views or mountain escapes, we’ve rounded up the best places for a memorable Thanksgiving holiday on the road.
Finding RV Destinations
Discovering RV parks and campgrounds for your travels involves utilizing different resources. Online directories and RVing apps like Campendium offer user reviews and detailed information. State and national park websites provide options for immersive natural experiences, combining the outdoors with comfortable amenities. RV club memberships and social media also play roles in helping you uncover hidden gems. You can also try joining a RVing community like our Living the RV Life Facebook Group and ask for tips from other campers there. But to make your search even easier, we rounded up our favorite campgrounds for Thanksgiving RV travels right here! Read on for our recommendations.
Why RVing During Thanksgiving is the Perfect Getaway
Choosing campgrounds for Thanksgiving allows you to celebrate the holiday in a way that combines the comfort of an RV with the beauty of the outdoors. RVing offers the flexibility to pick your destination, cook your meal in a cozy kitchen, and spend quality time with loved ones. This holiday season, break away from the traditional homebound celebration and experience Thanksgiving in a fresh, unforgettable way.
What to Pack for Thanksgiving at Campgrounds
Packing for a Thanksgiving trip to campgrounds involves a little extra preparation. Here are some essentials:
- Kitchen Supplies: A roasting pan, meat thermometer, and other kitchen tools are crucial for preparing your Thanksgiving feast.
- Outdoor Dining Gear: Folding tables, chairs, and blankets can help create the perfect outdoor dining experience.
- Holiday Decorations: Bring along festive decorations to make your campsite feel like home.
- Warm Clothing: Many campgrounds for Thanksgiving are in cooler areas, so pack layers, gloves, and insulated blankets.
Top Campgrounds for Thanksgiving
1. Top of the Hill RV Resort – Boerne, TX
Located in the scenic Texas Hill Country near San Antonio, Top of the Hill RV Resort is a family-friendly getaway offering breathtaking views and plenty of activities for an exciting Thanksgiving weekend. While you’re here, you can explore nearby landmarks like The Alamo, or take a hike in Enchanted Rock State Park. Thanksgiving festivities include opportunities to enjoy San Antonio’s famous Holiday River Parade, along with plenty of local holiday shopping and events in Boerne.
2. South Padre Island KOA – South Padre Island, TX
South Padre Island, TX This island oasis provides a tranquil beach setting for Thanksgiving. South Padre Island KOA offers water views, beautiful sunsets, and easy access to the beach, perfect for unwinding during the holiday. Nearby, you can check out the SpaceX launch site or enjoy fishing and dolphin watching. On Thanksgiving, the campground hosts a community potluck meal, where campers bring their favorite dishes while the KOA provides the turkey and other essentials.
3. Emerald Desert RV Resort – Palm Desert, CA
For those looking for luxury, Emerald Desert RV Resort in the Coachella Valley is a top-notch destination with world-class amenities like golf, tennis, and a spa. Spend your Thanksgiving in the warm desert sun, and on Thanksgiving Day, skip the cooking stress and enjoy a holiday buffet for $25 per person, featuring gourmet dishes and all the Thanksgiving classics. Spend the rest of your holiday weekend exploring nearby Joshua Tree National Park or boutique shopping in Palm Springs.
4. Highlands Hammock State Park – Sebring, FL
Located in central Florida, Highlands Hammock State Park is known for its diverse wildlife and serene natural beauty. During Thanksgiving, join the park’s 5k Turkey Trot in the morning, a great way to kick off the day before relaxing in nature. The park features beautiful trails, biking paths, and wildlife observation opportunities, perfect for a peaceful Thanksgiving escape. Enjoy a picnic-style Thanksgiving meal surrounded by the Florida sun and the beauty of old-growth forests.
5. Cumberland Mountain State Park – Nashville, TN
Set in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Cumberland Mountain State Park provides a traditional Thanksgiving in a rustic, scenic setting. On Thanksgiving Day, head to the park’s Homestead Harvest Restaurant for an all-you-can-eat buffet, offering a wide range of traditional dishes. Afterward, explore the park’s hiking trails or join in family activities like movie nights. The stunning fall colors in the surrounding mountains make it an ideal location for a post-Thanksgiving hike.
6. Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay – Chula Vista, CA
Sun Outdoors San Diego Bay RV resort near San Diego offers a festive atmosphere for families spending Thanksgiving away from home. Join in the Thanksgiving potluck, where everyone contributes a dish and enjoys the camaraderie of fellow campers. The resort gets into the holiday spirit early, transitioning into the Christmas season the day after Thanksgiving with festive lights, holiday displays, and warm cider, creating a magical atmosphere for your stay.
7. Boston / Cape Cod KOA – Middleboro, MA
For history lovers, Boston/Cape Cod KOA provides the perfect gateway to visit Plymouth and experience the roots of Thanksgiving. After participating in the town’s Thanksgiving events, return to the campground for a cozy evening.
Enjoy the KOA-sponsored potluck Thanksgiving meal from the comfort of your campground as well. We suggest packing some marshmallows and making a fire at your own personal fire ring. Roast away your sweet treat into the night and enjoy the company of your neighbors here.
8. Upper Pines Campground – Yosemite National Park, CA
For breathtaking views, head to Upper Pines Campground in Yosemite. This popular destination is perfect for nature lovers who want to picnic in the shadow of granite cliffs, waterfalls, and towering trees. Make sure to plan ahead as reservations fill quickly.
If you’re lucky enough to get a spot, open your Turkey Day on a picnic in nature. Plan ahead with everything you will need for an excellent feast, and cook ahead as much as possible. If you enjoy mountains, rivers, waterfalls, or forests, this park has the perfect picnic area for you.
9. South Campground – Zion National Park, UT
10. Liberty Harbor RV Park – Jersey City, NJ
Liberty Harbor RV park is just minutes from New York City, making it a unique spot to spend Thanksgiving. You can spend your holiday attending the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, with all its larger-than-life floats, performances, and celebrity appearances. After enjoying the festivities in the city, retreat to your RV with views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan’s skyline. This one-of-a-kind experience blends the excitement of city life with the comfort of RV camping.
Which of these campgrounds for Thanksgiving will you choose?
Experience the best of Thanksgiving surrounded by nature at these beautiful RV campgrounds. Offering both RV-friendly amenities and stunning natural settings, each park on this list promises to make your holiday special. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving camping adventure or seeking modern comforts with a touch of nature, these spots provide the perfect backdrop for lasting memories. Enjoy the holiday with gratitude, togetherness, and the charm of RV resort living. If you are in the market for a new RV before the holiday festivities, don’t forget to check out RVUSA.com!
Happy Thanksgiving and happy camping!