There’s a unique challenge in visiting East Coast national parks compared to the West Coast or Midwest heartland –– there aren’t that many of them! And even though there’s so much beautiful natural scenery and amazing things to discover, the distance between each makes planning a road trip a tall order.

The East Coast USA is home to a diverse array of national parks, including Acadia, Everglades, Shenandoah, Great Smoky Mountains, Congaree, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas. In addition to national parks, the region also features national seashores and national forests, offering visitors a wide range of outdoor experiences. Notable national forests like Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina and White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire, as well as protected coastal areas such as Cape Cod National Seashore, offer even more opportunities for outdoor adventure on the East Coast. Some of these parks are even recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, highlighting their global significance and natural importance.

That’s why we’re laying out 6 must-see East Coast national parks with your next adventure in mind. Follow along to learn about the parks and what makes each one so special. Buckle up, and get ready to hit the road!

Tip: Consider purchasing the America the Beautiful National Park and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for $80, which provides access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide.

How To Use This Guide

The parks are listed from south to north. Pick a point close to you and go up or down the list depending on which direction you want to roam. For a faster pace, choose more parks. Or to take your time, and choose less. Just make sure they’re next to each other (or close) on our list.

Organizing your ultimate East Coast national park road trip has never been easier! 

Best National Parks on the East Coast

Use this guide to plan your perfect East Coast road trip. We highlight what each park has on offer for visitors and suggest things to do!

If you’re aiming to visit all the national parks on the East Coast, keep in mind that some parks require advance registration to control visitor numbers, especially during peak times. The best time to visit varies by season—spring brings blooming flowers, while fall offers stunning foliage. Summer is the most popular season, so expect busier trails and make sure to reserve permits and accommodations well in advance.

Plan to arrive early at the parks to avoid crowds, particularly during peak seasons. Download maps for offline use, as cell service can be unreliable in many areas. If you plan to camp overnight, check if camping permits are required and reserve them ahead of time. Always respect wildlife and follow park rules regarding wildlife encounters to help protect these natural spaces.

Everglades National Park

• Largest subtropical park in the U.S., encompassing over 1.5 million acres

• Home to several endangered species

• Several ecosystems, like wetlands and coastal lowlands

Everglades National Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is significant for its unique subtropical ecosystem.

The diverse ecosystems present at this East Coast national park mean you’ll have so much to see and do. Known as the 'River of Grass' due to its slow-moving water and sawgrass marshes, the park is also home to both alligators and crocodiles.

Start by bird watching while you walk along scenic ponds and trails. Keep your eyes to the skies to spot over 300 unique bird species. Feeling adventurous? Paddle your way through mangroves, marshes, and the open waters of the Florida Bay. You can float along a paddling trail or make your own way. Or just kick your feet up on a boat and fish the days away.

A must-visit area within the park is Shark Valley, famous for its observation tower, the scenic 15-mile loop that can be explored by bike or tram, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Top RV Campgrounds Near Everglades National Park

• Flamingo Campground (In-Park)
  Full RV hookups available seasonally; waterfront sites with sunrise views

• Long Pine Key Campground (In-Park)
  No hookups, but shaded sites and close access to trails

• Encore Miami Everglades (Private, nearby)
  Resort-style amenities, pools, laundry, and full hookups

• Everglades Isle Luxury Motorcoach Retreat
  Ideal for larger RVs seeking premium facilities

Outdoor Things to Do in Everglades National Park

• Walk the Anhinga Trail for guaranteed wildlife sightings

• Join ranger-led wet walk programs (seasonal)

• Boat through Florida Bay to spot manatees and dolphins

No matter what you choose, Everglades National Park is sure to delight and leave lasting memories.

Biscayne National Park

• A park made up of 95% water

• Biscayne National Park is primarily underwater, covering over 173,000 acres and featuring vibrant coral reefs and mangrove islands.

• Snorkeling through coral reefs

• A 10,000 year history

This next East Coast national park is a history buff or water-lover’s dream. Biscayne Bay was home to native humans as much as 10,000 years ago. Since then, pioneers, farmers, pirate smugglers, and rum runners have all left their mark.

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is the main starting point for exploring the park and learning about its natural and cultural history through interactive exhibits. Besides enjoying the crystal blue waters wherever you go, you may learn about the remains of 44 shipwrecks peppered along the coast. The Maritime Heritage Trail is a key attraction for snorkelers and divers, offering the chance to explore shipwrecks and discover the park's maritime history. A guided tour will let you hear plenty of stories while you take in the scenery.

Top RV Campgrounds Near Biscayne National Park

• Homestead Miami Speedway RV Park
  Full hookups and easy access to Biscayne boat tours

• Biscayne Bay RV Resort
  Waterfront sites with marina access

• Larry and Penny Thompson Memorial Park
  Family-friendly campground near the park entrance

Outdoor Things to Do in Biscayne National Park

• Snorkel coral reefs and shallow shipwrecks

• Kayak along Biscayne Bay shoreline

• Take a guided boat tour to Boca Chita Key

• Explore historic lighthouse islands

• Fishing in designated park zones

• Wildlife viewing, including rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish

And if any sort of water-based activity, from kayaking to diving to fishin,g is your thing, Biscayne National Park is an absolute must.

Congaree National Park

• Expansive backcountry camping

• 15+ miles of kayaking or canoeing

• Old-growth forest and massive champion trees

Congaree National Park is home to some of the tallest trees on the East Coast and features a floodplain swamp ecosystem.

Start your trip at this South Carolina gem. Congaree National Park is one of the best East Coast national parks for someone looking for a true sense of adventure.

You’ll find excitement in the form of a sprawling backcountry that’s accessible by foot or canoe. A camping permit is free and will give you a chance to test your mettle in an untamed wilderness.

If something more relaxing is your speed, enjoy one of two designated park campgrounds. From there, you’ll have access to 15+ miles of canoeing, fishing anywhere in the park, and a scenic trail system. The Boardwalk Loop Trail is a scenic and accessible way to explore the park’s unique ecosystem, winding through the old-growth bottomland hardwood forest. Cedar Creek is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking, offering opportunities to see wildlife and experience the park’s waterways up close. The park features 25 miles of scenic hiking trails, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Top RV Campgrounds Near Congaree National Park

• Longleaf Campground (In-Park)
  No hookups, but peaceful forest setting

• South Forty RV Park (Nearby)
  Full hookups and easy park access

• Sesquicentennial State Park
  RV sites with water and electric hookups

Outdoor Things to Do in Congaree National Park

• Walk the elevated Boardwalk Loop Trail

• Canoe Cedar Creek through cypress forests

• Backcountry camping (permit required)

• Firefly viewing during late spring events

• Birdwatching and wildlife photography

• Ranger-led educational programs

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A drive to North Carolina/Tennessee will bring you to this span of connected peaks in the Great Smoky Mountain range.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, attracting millions of travelers each year. Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, is also the third-highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The park is renowned for its natural beauty, with scenic landscapes and diverse ecosystems that make it a top destination for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The park is a hiker’s paradise with over 30 viewpoints and a chance to route your own path. You can choose your level of strain thanks to the wide variety of elevations available. Or take it easy in any of the park’s valleys, grottos, and open plains. There’s no end to the unique geological features and scenery each biosphere offers.

Top RV Campgrounds Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Elkmont Campground (In-Park)
  Large sites, close to trailheads

• Smokemont Campground (In-Park)
  Riverfront camping near Cherokee

• Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA
  Full hookups and resort amenities

• Cosby Campground
  Quieter alternative with mountain scenery

Outdoor Things to Do in the Smokies

• Drive Cades Cove Loop Road for wildlife viewing

• Hike to Clingmans Dome for panoramic views

• Explore historic cabins and grist mills

• Waterfall hikes like Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls

• Scenic drive on Newfound Gap Road

• Fly fishing in mountain streams

New River Gorge National Park

• 70,000-acre West Virginia park

• Shaped by 53 miles of wild river

• The New River has carved an 800-foot deep gorge over millions of years.

• Whitewater rafting

New River Gorge is the best East Coast national park for whitewater rafters, offering world-class whitewater rafting experiences. The 53-mile river divides into two sections. The upper section includes milder rapids up to class III (a good option for a more relaxed time). And the lower section is famous for its powerful flow rated at class III to V (you can expect hazards and danger –– a very challenging course).

But even if all that adrenaline isn’t your thing, New River Gorge has plenty more to offer. Enjoy fishing all along the water, hiking scenic trails, or just setting up camp near some beautiful scenery. Rock climbing is also a key outdoor activity here, with natural rock formations attracting climbers from around the world. The park is home to the iconic river gorge bridge, a major attraction and engineering marvel that offers stunning views and sightseeing opportunities. New River Gorge became the 63rd National Park in 2000 and is also known for its historical coal towns that supported the region’s industry.

Top RV Campgrounds Near New River Gorge

• Grandview Sandbar Campground
  Riverfront sites near rafting outfitters

• Adventures on the Gorge Campground
  Full amenities plus guided adventures

• Chestnut Creek Campground
  Quiet, wooded RV sites

Outdoor Things to Do in New River Gorge

• Whitewater rafting (Class III–V rapids)

• Rock climbing and rappelling

• Hiking Endless Wall and Long Point trails

• Scenic overlooks at Grandview and Canyon Rim

• Fishing and kayaking

• Bridge Walk tours beneath New River Gorge Bridge

Shenandoah National Park

• 200,000 acres of protected wilderness

• Brilliant stargazing

• 105-mile scenic road: Skyline Drive

• Characterized by the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains

Shenandoah National Park is most famous for its pretty Skyline Drive. This 105-mile long road climbs high along an Appalachian mountain ridge to give you a grand overlook of the wilderness below.

The park offers over 500 miles of hiking trails, including the challenging Old Rag Mountain (Rag Mountain) hike, which is renowned for its breathtaking views and popularity among hikers. Shenandoah was also a significant site during the Civil War, with many battles occurring in the surrounding areas.

But there’s no shortage of hiking trails, backcountry wilderness, or rock outcroppings to explore either in 200,000 acres of Virginian land.

And when it’s time to retire for the evening, don’t forget to look up. Thanks to its distance from unnatural light and relatively deep darkness, the starry sky is brilliant. Snap a few star photos or just take a breath and enjoy the view.

Top RV Campgrounds Near Shenandoah National Park

• Big Meadows Campground (In-Park)
  Central location with amenities

• Mathews Arm Campground (In-Park)
  More secluded forest setting

• Shenandoah River State Park
  RV sites with hookups and river access

• Luray KOA
  Full-service RV resort near park entrances

Outdoor Things to Do in Shenandoah National Park

• Drive Skyline Drive with frequent pullouts

• Hike to waterfalls like Dark Hollow Falls

• Summit Hawksbill Mountain

• Backcountry camping and stargazing

• Wildlife viewing — deer, black bears, songbirds

• Photography along the Blue Ridge overlooks

14-Day East Coast Road Trip RV Itinerary

Route: Florida → South Carolina → Tennessee/North Carolina → West Virginia → Virginia

Many of these parks are conveniently located near major highways or cities, making them just a short drive from one another and ideal for a road trip itinerary.

Ideal For: Families, couples, first-time RVers, and nature-focused road trippers

Days 1–2: Everglades National Park (Florida)

Drive focus: Miami / South Florida
Base Camp: Flamingo Campground or nearby RV resort

Day 1

• Arrive in South Florida and set up camp

• Sunset wildlife viewing along Anhinga Trail

• Evening ranger talk or scenic drive

Day 2

• Morning kayaking or airboat tour

• Shark Valley bike loop and observation tower

• Relaxing evening back at the RV

Why Stay Two Days:
The Everglades is best experienced slowly. Early mornings and evenings offer the best wildlife sightings, and spreading activities over two days avoids heat fatigue.

Day 3: Biscayne National Park (Florida)

Drive: ~1 hour from Everglades area
Base Camp: Homestead / Biscayne Bay area

Highlights

• Guided boat tour to Boca Chita Key

• Snorkeling over shallow reefs or shipwrecks

• Kayaking along Biscayne Bay shoreline

RV Tip:
Because most of Biscayne is water-based, one full day is ideal when paired with a nearby RV park.

Day 4: Travel Day – Florida to Congaree National Park

Drive: ~9–10 hours (split if needed)
Overnight Option: Georgia or northern Florida RV park

This is the longest haul of the trip. Breaking it into two shorter days can improve comfort, especially for families.

Days 5–6: Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

Base Camp: Longleaf Campground or nearby private RV park

Day 5

• Boardwalk Loop Trail

• Wildlife spotting and photography

• Evening campfire and stargazing

Day 6

• Cedar Creek canoe or kayak trip

• Ranger-led programs

• Optional backcountry exploration

Why Stay Two Days:
Congaree rewards slower exploration, and its peaceful setting is a great contrast to busier parks later in the trip.

Days 7–8: Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN/NC)

Drive: ~4.5 hours
Base Camp: Elkmont, Smokemont, or Gatlinburg-area RV park

Day 7

• Scenic drive through Newfound Gap

• Waterfall hikes (Laurel Falls, Grotto Falls)

• Evening wildlife viewing

Day 8

• Cades Cove loop drive

• Historic cabins and mills

• Optional rafting or fishing nearby

Why Stay Two Days:
The Smokies are vast, diverse, and extremely popular. Two days allow you to experience multiple ecosystems without rushing.

Days 9–10: New River Gorge National Park (West Virginia)

Drive: ~6 hours
Base Camp: Fayetteville or gorge-area RV campground

Day 9

• Scenic overlooks and visitor center

• Endless Wall Trail hike

• Sunset views at Long Point

Day 10

• Whitewater rafting or guided adventure

• Bridge Walk tour

• Relaxing riverside evening

Why Stay Two Days:
Adventure activities and hiking trails deserve dedicated time, especially if you’re rafting.

Days 11–12: Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

Drive: ~4.5 hours
Base Camp: Big Meadows or Shenandoah River State Park

Day 11

• Enter Skyline Drive

• Overlooks and short hikes

• Wildlife viewing at dusk

Day 12

• Hawksbill Mountain hike

• Waterfall trails

• Night sky viewing

Why Stay Two Days:
Shenandoah’s scenic drive alone can take a full day when stopping at overlooks.

Days 13–14: Buffer Days or Flexible Extension

Use your final two days in one of three ways:

Option A: Slow Down

• Add an extra day to the Smokies or Shenandoah

Option B: Explore Nearby Attractions

• Blue Ridge Parkway

• Luray Caverns

• Appalachian small towns

• Visit the National Mall in Washington, DC, home to iconic monuments, memorials, and museums, or explore a nearby national monument for a dose of American history.

Option C: Begin Return Journey

• Head toward home or the nearest Cruise America drop-off

More East Coast National Parks to Explore

If you have extra time—or want to customize your route—these additional national parks make excellent add-ons to an East Coast RV adventure. Each offers a completely different landscape and experience, making them easy to mix and match depending on your interests.

Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

Located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park surprises visitors with rolling sand dunes, quiet beaches, wetlands, and forested trails. It’s a great option if you’re starting your trip in the Midwest or heading east from Chicago. RV travelers will appreciate nearby campgrounds and the park’s blend of hiking, birdwatching, and lakefront relaxation.

Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida)

For travelers beginning in southern Florida, Dry Tortugas National Park is a bucket-list extension. Accessible only by ferry or seaplane from Key West, this remote park is famous for Fort Jefferson, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. While RVs can’t reach the park itself, staying in an RV in the Florida Keys makes this an unforgettable side trip focused on snorkeling, history, and isolation.

Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

Home to the world’s longest known cave system, Mammoth Cave National Park is a fantastic inland addition to an East Coast itinerary. Guided cave tours, scenic river paddling, and forested hiking trails make it appealing for families and adventure seekers alike. RV-friendly campgrounds nearby allow you to explore both above and below ground with ease.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers waterfalls, historic canals, rolling hills, and paved bike paths. It’s an easy stop for RV travelers looking to break up longer drives with scenic outdoor time. The park’s accessibility and variety of activities make it ideal for a relaxed one- or two-day visit.

Acadia National Park (Maine)

If you’re extending your journey into New England, Acadia National Park delivers rugged coastline, granite peaks, and iconic ocean views. Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, carriage roads, and coastal hiking trails make it one of the most beloved national parks on the East Coast. While RV access inside the park is limited, nearby campgrounds provide excellent base camps for exploration.

Explore the Best East Coast National Parks With an RV Rental

We hope you enjoyed this guide to East Coast national parks. We’re sure you will have an adventure at any park you choose! To experience the best the East Coast has to offer, you'd better ride in comfort and style. Check our Cruise America’s full lineup and reserve your RV rental today!