Best Fall Festivals in the US for Your Next Camper Van Trip

California’s Vibrant Festival Scene

Joshua Tree Music Festival: Oct 10 – 13

Nestled in the desert landscape of southern California, the Joshua Tree Music Festival is an eclectic mix of music, art, and community spirit. Held in October, this festival boasts a diverse lineup of musicians, interactive art installations, and yoga workshops. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and visitors can connect with like-minded individuals.

For camping, the Joshua Tree National Park offers breathtaking views and stargazing opportunities just a short drive away. With GoCamp, you can choose a van equipped with everything you need, from cookware to camp chairs, making it easy to set up your basecamp.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest: Sep 7 – Nov 2

Experience a taste of Germany in the heart of California at the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest. This event is packed with traditional Bavarian music, authentic German cuisine, and, of course, plenty of beer. Set against the backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains, it’s a picturesque setting for one of the best fall festivals in the US.

Camping options abound, with several campgrounds around Big Bear Lake offering serene spots to park your camper van. After a day of festival fun, retreat to the comfort of your van, where you can relax and recharge for more adventures.

Start your trip in Los Angeles, with one of GoCamp’s many camper van rentals. Then, take the short drive east to Big Bear Lake.

Oregon’s Harvest and Celebration

Hood River Valley Harvest Fest: Oct 11 – 13

Celebrate the bounty of the harvest season in Oregon’s Hood River Valley. The Harvest Fest is a family-friendly event featuring local produce, artisan crafts, and live entertainment. As one of the best fall festivals in the US, it’s a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage and a great way to taste fresh, local flavors.

The Hood River area is rich with camping opportunities, with sites along the Columbia River providing beautiful views and easy access to the festival. GoCamp’s curated fleet of camper vans ensures you have the perfect mobile campsite to explore the valley and its wineries, orchards, and hiking trails. With options in Hood River, like Real Peach, you won’t have to travel far for comfort!

West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta: Oct 19 – 20

Get ready for a whimsical spectacle at the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta in Portland. Watch as giant pumpkins transformed into boats race across Tualatin Lake. This quirky event includes a pumpkin parade, costume contest, and plenty of fall-themed activities for all ages.

Camping near Portland is a breeze with numerous campgrounds within a short drive of the city. Park your camper van in a cozy spot, and take advantage of the amenities offered by GoCamp, such as bedding and dishware, to enjoy a comfortable stay.

Alabama’s Southern Charms

National Shrimp Festival: Oct 10 – 13

Head to Gulf Shores, Alabama, for the annual National Shrimp Festival, where seafood lovers gather to indulge in delectable shrimp dishes. The festival features live music, arts and crafts, and a sand sculpture contest, all set along the stunning Gulf Coast beaches.

Van camping is a popular option, with several campgrounds offering beachfront views and easy access to the festival. Consider starting your trip in Birmingham, with the vacation-machine named Pilot. With GoCamp, most vans are pet-friendly, so your furry friends won’t miss out on the adventure.

Alabama Coastal BirdFest: Oct 4 – 6

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find paradise at the Alabama Coastal BirdFest in Fairhope. This festival offers guided birding tours, workshops, and nature walks, highlighting the diverse bird population along Alabama’s coast.

This festival is timed for the southern migration of several species of bird, with the number of different kinds reaching the hundreds. This event features workshops, where visitors can learn the ins-and-outs of birding, and a family-friendly Bird and Nature Expo.

Campgrounds in the Fairhope area provide tranquil settings for your camper van, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region. With a Storyteller Overland MODE, you’ll have everything you need for a successful and comfortable trip.

Washington’s Festive Offerings

Leavenworth Oktoberfest: Oct 4 – 19

Transport yourself to a Bavarian village with a visit to Leavenworth Oktoberfest in Washington. This charming town is known for its festive atmosphere, complete with oompah bands, traditional Bavarian food, and lively dancing.

Leavenworth offers a variety of camping options, including riverfront sites, near the Wenatchee River, that are perfect for parking your camper van. This multi-weekend event is packed with things to do, making it one of the best fall festivals in the US.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

While traditionally a spring event, the Skagit Valley offers stunning fall landscapes that still captivate visitors. Explore the valley’s scenic drives, local farms, and cozy towns. Although the tulips aren’t in bloom, the area’s natural beauty and cultural events make it worth a visit.

Camping spots in the Skagit Valley are plentiful, providing a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration. GoCamp’s vans are equipped for rugged exploration, allowing you to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems. Browse available rentals in Seattle and take the short trip up north to the area.

Why Rent a Camper Van?

Renting a camper van for your vacation offers unparalleled flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore diverse destinations at your own pace. Unlike traditional travel arrangements, a camper van brings the comfort of home to the open road. With a fully equipped van from GoCamp, you have the freedom to change your itinerary on a whim, discovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locales.

Additionally, camper vans provide a cost-effective solution by combining transportation and accommodation, eliminating the need for expensive hotel stays. Whether you’re planning a scenic road trip, a mountain adventure, or a beachfront retreat this fall, a camper van ensures you experience the journey as much as the destination, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Good to know: All GoCamp camper van rentals come fully loaded with camping essentials like bedding, cookware, camp chairs, camp table, and even a coffee maker, so you can relax with a hot cup up every morning.

Fall Festival Fun

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant music scene of California, the harvest celebrations of Oregon, the southern charm of Alabama, or the festive spirit of Washington, there’s something for everyone on our list of the best fall festivals in the US. With a camper van from GoCamp, you can experience these events in style and comfort, knowing that every detail has been taken care of.

Now’s the time to start planning your adventure. Book your camper van through GoCamp.com and join a community of fellow road-trippers who share your passion for discovery and celebration. Share your fall festival experiences with us and connect with us on Instagram. 

For more travel inspiration and travel guides, check out our blog. If you have any questions about renting a camper van, our Customer Experience team is happy to help!