11+ Best States for RV Life

By Forrest McCall | Last Updated: January 28, 2025 

Dreaming of hitting the open road and embracing the freedom of van life? Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting out, choosing the right states to explore can make all the difference. From stunning landscapes to affordable essentials like gas and groceries, some states are simply better suited for life on wheels.

Imagine waking up to ocean views, parking near breathtaking national parks, or enjoying mild weather year-round. The best states for van life offer not just scenery but also practical perks like free overnight parking and reliable WiFi hotspots for remote work. It's all about finding places that welcome the van life community and make your journey seamless.

Montana

RV IN NATIONAL PARK

Known for its wide-open spaces and breathtaking scenery, Montana is a dream for van lifers seeking serenity and adventure. Towering mountain ranges, serene lakes, and vast prairies provide endless opportunities to explore. Glacier National Park stands out as a must-visit destination with picturesque drives and abundant hiking trails. The Big Sky State also offers plenty of dispersed camping options where you can park for free and enjoy uninterrupted views of nature.

Small towns welcome travelers with friendly locals and essential amenities, making resupply stops hassle-free. Many public lands, including national forests, allow extended stays, giving you time to soak in the beauty. With iconic highways like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, driving here feels like an adventure itself. Cool summers and fewer crowds make it especially appealing for those who prefer quieter escapes.

Alaska

Alaska offers a paradise for van lifers seeking solitude and raw, natural beauty. Towering mountains, sprawling forests, and icy glaciers create a backdrop that feels almost otherworldly. Traveling here brings opportunities for scenic drives like the Seward Highway, where dramatic landscapes seem to stretch endlessly. Wildlife sightings add excitement, with bears, moose, and bald eagles often appearing along the journey.

Free camping spots are abundant, thanks to public lands and remote settings. Pull into a quiet spot near a lake or river, and you’ll likely find peace away from bustling crowds. Small towns provide provisions, while some even offer quirky local charm. Though Alaska's rugged terrain demands a well-prepared van, the experience can be unforgettable for adventurers who love the open road.

Utah

Utah stands out as a welcoming destination for van lifers. Fuel prices here are slightly lower than in other West Coast states, making it more budget-friendly for those traveling on a tight budget. Earlier this year, Salt Lake City became a hub for RVers, attracting hundreds during a major event like the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. Free parking offered within city limits encouraged travelers to explore local businesses, adding to the area's charm.

The state’s natural beauty is undeniable, with red rock landscapes, iconic national parks, and endless trails for outdoor exploration. Combining affordability with stunning sights, Utah remains a top choice.

Arizona

Arizona’s warm climate and welcoming vibe draw countless van lifers every year. Each February, the small town of Quartzsite turns into a buzzing hub, hosting nearly 2 million travelers in camper vans, RVs, and school bus conversions. The outskirts come alive with workshops about van life, solar panel installations, and road trip planning, fostering a genuine sense of community.

The state’s outdoors offer endless adventure. Picture yourself hiking through stunning desert trails, mountain biking near Sedona, or climbing rugged rock formations under a clear blue sky. Free campsites in the forests around Sedona, Flagstaff, and southern Arizona make exploring budget-friendly, while the mild winters invite year-round visits. With all these perks, Arizona’s perfect for kicking off an unforgettable van life journey.

South Dakota

South Dakota stands out as an appealing destination for van lifers with its blend of affordability and natural beauty. Known for the famous Badlands National Park, the state offers dramatic rock formations and vast prairies that create breathtaking scenery. Black Hills National Forest provides plenty of dispersed camping areas, perfect for parking your van and enjoying peaceful nights under the stars.

Driving through areas like Custer State Park often leads to encounters with buffalo herds and other wildlife, making every trip an adventure. Towns like Rapid City and Sioux Falls offer convenient access to supplies, while the friendly locals add warmth to your experience. With minimal vehicle registration fees and no state income tax, South Dakota remains practical for long-term van dwellers.

Idaho

Idaho offers a perfect mix of rugged wilderness and serene beauty, making it a favorite for van lifers. With over 4 million acres of national forests, there’s no shortage of picturesque spots to park your van and enjoy nature. Hidden hot springs, like those near Stanley or McCall, provide a relaxing break after long drives. The Snake River creates endless opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and riverside relaxation.

Small towns like Coeur d'Alene and Sandpoint boast friendly vibes, unique shops, and access to essentials. Boise, the state’s capital, blends urban convenience with nearby outdoor adventures, giving you the best of both worlds.

Oregon

things to do in astoria oregon

Oregon stands out as a dream destination for van lifers, offering a mix of natural beauty and practical amenities. The state’s rugged coastline, dotted with sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, provides countless opportunities for seaside camping. Dense forests, like those in the Cascade Range, invite you to park your van and hike under towering trees. Cities such as Portland and Bend cater to van dwellers with their vibrant communities, free WiFi hotspots, and accessible public facilities.

The state’s abundance of public lands means finding free campsites is rarely a challenge. Oregon’s scenic byways, including the Pacific Coast Highway, make every drive feel like an adventure. Farmers' markets, local breweries, and quirky small towns amplify the charm, creating a perfect balance of outdoor exploration and modern convenience. Reliable weather most of the year ensures traveling through this stunning state remains stress-free.

Tennessee

Tennessee offers a mix of Southern charm, rich culture, and outdoor adventure that’s hard to beat for van lifers. From the rolling hills of the Smoky Mountains to lively music scenes in cities like Nashville and Memphis, there’s something for everyone. Public lands like Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide stunning camping spots and endless opportunities for hiking and exploring.

The state’s mild climate makes it ideal for van life year-round, while the low cost of living helps stretch your budget further. Small towns scattered across the state often have welcoming communities and local festivals that add to the experience. Whether it’s enjoying live country music or quiet nights by the fire, Tennessee provides the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.

New Mexico

New Mexico is a hidden gem for van lifers, offering vast landscapes and unique experiences. Large stretches of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas allow free camping, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers. The desert scenery is unmatched, with hoodoo rock formations and endless trails that invite exploration. In the north, the lack of trees enhances landscape visibility, delivering sunsets that feel almost magical.

Chilly but predictable temperatures and star-filled nights add to the charm of camping here. Bugs are scarce, which makes outdoor evenings more enjoyable. Vibrant and affordable cuisine is found across the state, with its iconic red and green chile creating culinary highlights. Southern New Mexico boasts Carlsbad Caverns National Park, an awe-inspiring cave system that never fails to impress. Fewer crowds in even the most scenic spots maintain its peaceful character, perfect for road travelers seeking serenity and adventure.

California

California offers an unmatched blend of coastal beauty, warm weather, and diverse environments, making it a van lifer's paradise. From the stunning Pacific Coast Highway to the towering redwoods of Northern California, scenic routes seem endless. Beach lovers can enjoy free or low-cost camping in spots like Malibu or Big Sur, where ocean views accompany your morning coffee.

Inland areas, such as Joshua Tree National Park, feature desert landscapes perfect for stargazing. Many cities, including San Diego and Santa Cruz, embrace the van life community, providing essential amenities like public showers and WiFi. With a mild climate year-round, California ensures comfortable living on the road.

Washington

Washington stands out as a top location for van life enthusiasts, offering a mix of natural beauty and practical amenities. The state’s diverse landscapes range from the rugged Pacific coastline to the lush forests of Olympic National Park and the snow-capped peaks of Mount Rainier. Many of its small towns provide friendly stops for resupply and affordable essentials. Known for its extensive public lands, including national and state parks, Washington ensures ample opportunities for free or low-cost camping.

Mild summers and moderate coastal winters make year-round van life feasible here. With vibrant cities like Seattle and Spokane offering WiFi, showers, and parking options, urban stops are convenient.

Maine

Maine wraps up the list as a hidden gem for van lifers who crave tranquility and natural beauty. With its rugged coastline, charming small towns, and endless forests, it’s a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll find plenty of free or low-cost camping options, especially in its state parks and public lands.

The slower pace of life in Maine lets you truly unwind while exploring its scenic byways and indulging in fresh seafood along the way. Whether you’re chasing fall foliage or enjoying peaceful lakeside views, Maine offers a unique slice of van life that’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

No matter which state you choose, van life is all about embracing freedom and adventure. Each destination on this list has its own charm, so pack up your van and hit the road—you’ve got a world of unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

Forrest McCall

Forrest is a passionate traveler who loves to explore different cultures and lifestyles.