Your Guide to a Quick Weekend Getaway before Holiday Season

Freer, Faster, and Funner

Camper van vacations have surged in popularity, particularly among those seeking a unique travel experience. Unlike standard vacations, camper van trips provide the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the open road at your own pace.

This freedom and ease makes camper vans perfect for quick weekend getaways.  Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to this style of vacationing, everyone can find something to love about this fast-growing method of camping.

An All-In-One for Everyone

One of the standout features of camper van travel is the convenience. Forget loading and unloading your car with tents, bedding, and cooktops. GoCamp camper vans come with all camping equipment included.

This means the bedding, cookware, utensils, camp table, camp chairs, lights, coffee maker (and much more) are already included. Just hop in and go! With a wide range of camper van options available from GoCamp, you can select a van that fits your budget and style.

Did we mention that many rentals van be delivered right to your door? With convenience like this, getting out for those quick weekend getaways has never been easier.

Timed Just Right

You might be thinking that a couple of days is not really that much time, or that quick weekend getaways are easier said than done. The beauty of a camper van getaway lies in its ability to transform a short weekend into a memorable adventure.

With a bit of planning, you can escape the city on a Friday afternoon and return refreshed by Sunday evening. Camper vans come equipped with all the essentials, so you can focus on enjoying the experience rather than worrying about logistics.

With delivery options, you can spend even more time out relaxing and less time on the road. Holiday season or not, it’s always the right time to take some time for yourself.

Okay, But Where Do I Go?

Selecting the right destination is crucial for maximizing the enjoyment of your camper van getaway. Some factors to consider when planning quick weekend getaways are distance, natural beauty, and available amenities.

Ideally, your chosen spot should be within a few hours’ drive, allowing you to spend more time relaxing and less time on the road. Even in the busiest cities, traveling an hour or two out of town can transform the landscape into a weekend wonderland. 

Natural beauty is another important factor—whether it’s lush forests, serene lakes, or majestic mountains, the backdrop of your adventure should inspire and relax you. Or, if small town rustic is your vibe, look for options closeby and consider going in a direction you haven’t gone before.

Finally, consider the amenities available. Do you need electric hookups or shower facilities, or are you content with more rustic accommodations? Many towns and parks have campsites, which accommodate camper vans easily.

Top Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

1. Shenandoah National Park

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking quick weekend getaways.

The park offers a stunning mix of scenic vistas, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Drive along Skyline Drive, a 105-mile stretch that runs the length of the park, and stop at overlooks to take in breathtaking views of the valleys below.

Hiking is a must, with over 500 miles of trails to explore, including the famous Appalachian Trail. Visit Dark Hollow Falls, a beautiful waterfall easily accessible by a short hike, or enjoy a leisurely picnic at one of the park’s many designated areas. Don’t forget to check out the visitor center for educational exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Big Meadows Campground is an excellent choice for overnight stays, offering both RV hookups and traditional camping sites. With amenities like showers and a camp store, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

The best thing of this park is that the entrance is located just 30 minutes from Charlottesville, where you can rent the fully-loaded van named Stella. This van is your ultimate weekend warrior, as it can power your entire trip without even breaking a sweat.

2. Olympic National Park

For those on the West Coast, Olympic National Park offers a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and alpine peaks. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for those quick weekend getaways filled with exploration and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Explore the Hoh Rainforest, one of the few temperate rainforests in the U.S., or head to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains.

For a more laid-back experience, visit the beaches along the Pacific coastline, where you can relax and enjoy stunning sunsets.

Kalaloch Campground is a popular choice, situated along the coast with easy access to the beach. The campground provides basic amenities, and its scenic location makes it an ideal base for your Olympic adventure.

With Olympic National Park being just a two-hour drive from Seattle, you can take off after work on Friday and make it to your destination with daylight to spare. Have your pick from over two dozen GoCamp camper vans (most offer delivery) and make the most of your weekend.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is renowned for its biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. With its mist-covered peaks and verdant forests, the park offers a tranquil escape from the everyday grind.

Hiking is a favorite activity here, with trails like Clingmans Dome offering breathtaking views from the highest point in the park. For a unique experience, visit Cades Cove, a picturesque valley rich in history and wildlife. Don’t forget to explore the park’s many waterfalls, such as Laurel Falls, accessible via a moderate hike.

Elkmont Campground is centrally located and offers easy access to many of the park’s attractions. With a variety of campsite options and ample amenities, it’s a convenient and comfortable place to set up camp.

If quaint mountain towns are your jam, you won’t want to miss spending some time in Gatlinburg. Visit the observation tower for sweeping views of the park or shop to your heart’s content in one of the many local shops. Enjoy a relaxing meal overlooking the sunset before heading back to the park for a cozy night in your camper van.

To enjoy this weekend adventure, check out Diogenes in Chattanooga or Vanscend in Saluda. If you’re coming from the Nashville area, we have rentals around you too!

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, known for its otherworldly landscapes and iconic Joshua Trees, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a weekend desert getaway. The park’s unique combination of ecosystems creates a truly mesmerizing experience.

Rock climbing enthusiasts will find plenty of challenges here, while hikers can explore trails like Hidden Valley and Barker Dam. For stargazers, Joshua Tree offers some of the clearest night skies in Southern California, making it a prime spot for those just wanting to enjoy some quiet time admiring the sky.

Black Rock Campground provides a great base for exploring the park, with easy access to popular trails and stunning views of the desert landscape. Be sure to book your site in advance however, as the park is a popular destination year-round.

Located just about two hours outside Los Angeles, Joshua Tree is the pinnacle of a weekend escape. With ready-to-roll camper van, just hop in and hit the road for a weekend of relaxation and unwinding.

Preparing for Your Trip (Spoiler: It’s Easy)

Before you hit the road, it’s essential to prepare adequately for your camper van getaway. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Thankfully, by renting with GoCamp, you’ll focus less on packing and more on destination planning.

Mostly, you just need to prepare to bring along clothes and food for your trip. Other essentials like bedding, cookware, utensils, camp chairs and table, and even a coffee maker are already included in each camper van rental.

Still, you can create a packing list that includes clothing for various weather conditions, toiletries, and personal items.

If you’re new to camper van travel, you have nothing to fear. Before you depart for your trip, the van owner will provide a full walkthrough of the van so you can get acquainted with its features. They will go over things like how the power and water work, and how to empty the water tanks. Other than that, driving a camper van is just like driving any other car.

Maximizing You Weekend

As with all quick weekend getaways, effective time management is key to making the most of your weekend. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and allow for moments of tranquility. Do a quick online search of amenities or events in the area you plan to go so you have a idea of what you want to accomplish while there.

While it’s tempting to pack your itinerary with activities, remember to leave room for spontaneous adventures and downtime. Perhaps a leisurely morning coffee overlooking a scenic vista or an afternoon nap in the comfort of your van can provide the relaxation you need.

Bring a camera or smartphone to document your adventure. You can share your photos with the GoCamp team when you leave a review, but that’s totally up to you! We do love seeing our renters out on their adventures, though. 🙂

Weekending Awaits

Quick weekend getaways in a camper van offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and reconnect with nature before the holiday season rush. By choosing an ideal destination, packing carefully, and balancing exploration with relaxation, you’ll return refreshed and ready to tackle the festive season.

For those eager to explore these adventures, consider browsing GoCamp’s selection of camper vans to find the perfect fit for your getaway. Don’t wait—start planning your escape today and savor the serenity of the open road.

If you need more destination inspiration, feel free to check out our other blog posts. We have guides for all kinds of travel, with a little something for everyone. If you have a specific question about renting a camper van, our Customer Experience team is always available to help.