Your Guide to the Best Winter Vacations in the United States

The Best Winter Camper Van Destinations in the US

Here’s a list of the top five best winter vacations in the US—each offering its own unique scenery and charm.

1. California’s Sierra Nevada and Yosemite National Park

Winter transforms Yosemite into a wonderland of icy waterfalls, snow-covered meadows, and towering granite cliffs. The iconic destinations like El Capitan and Half Dome are even more breathtaking under a blanket of snow. With fewer visitors in the colder months, you’ll have room to breathe and enjoy the serenity.

Tip for your camper van trip? Many roads inside Yosemite stay open year-round. Just make sure your camper van is equipped for the cold. Luckily, GoCamp has many winter-ready vehicles.

2. The Rocky Mountains, Colorado

A trip to Colorado’s Rocky Mountains will satisfy everything from your adventure cravings to your desire for picture-perfect views. With world-class ski resorts like Breckenridge and Aspen nearby, you can hit the slopes during the day and return to the comfort of your camper van by night.

Pro tip: Cozy up in your camper van with GoCamp’s included bedding after a day of skiing. Bonus? The hot cocoa just tastes better with a mountain view.

3. Pacific Northwest, Washington and Oregon

The misty, forested Pacific Northwest is stunning in all seasons, but it’s especially magical in winter. Explore Olympic National Park’s diverse ecosystems or park your camper van for a lakefront view near the Cascade Mountains.

Biggest perk? Winter crowds are almost nonexistent, leaving you and your loved ones to enjoy nature’s best-kept secrets in peace.

4. The American Southwest, Arizona and Utah

If frosty weather isn’t your thing, the Southwest delivers a stunning winter escape with milder climates. Visit Arizona’s Grand Canyon with a snow-dusted rim or Utah’s Zion National Park for adventure without the scorching summer heat. Explore unreal red rock formations by day and watch a galaxy of stars by night.

5. Oregon’s High Desert

Want something totally unique? Venture into Oregon’s high desert, where you’ll experience chilly mornings, golden sage-filled valleys, and shimmering skies full of stars. Places like Bend and Smith Rock offer excellent hiking and photographic opportunities.

Each of these destinations transforms in winter, offering a quieter, more serene version of what you’d experience in summer. GoCamp’s fleet with included winter camping essentials makes them all easily accessible.

What to Do on a Winter Camper Van Trip

There are endless activities to enjoy on a winter camper van adventure. Here are a few ideas to keep you entertained and inspired.

Hit the Slopes

Destinations like the Rockies and Sierra Nevada are home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the U.S. Park your camper van nearby, enjoy the thrill of the downhill, and warm up afterward in total serenity.

Experience Snowshoeing or Hiking

If you’re in areas like Olympic National Park or Oregon’s Cascades, strap on some snowshoes and explore winter trails at your own pace.

Watch Wildlife

Winter brings unique wildlife-watching opportunities. From bald eagles in Washington to elk in Colorado, keep your binoculars handy.

Enjoy Campfire Evenings

One of the best parts of camper van travel is the endless storage for camping equipment. Build a warm fire, toast marshmallows, and enjoy the winter quiet under the stars—a moment that feels straight out of a storybook.

How to Prepare for Winter Travel

Preparation is key for winter trips. Here are the essentials:

1. Winter-Ready Camper Vans: With GoCamp’s curated fleet, many vans are winterized and include snow chains, insulated interiors, and heating options.
2. Layered Clothing: Pack thermal wear, waterproof boots, gloves, and hats to keep you cozy.
3. Food and Drink: Take advantage of the full kitchen setups in GoCamp vans to prepare hot, hearty meals. Don’t forget to drink water with each physical ectivity, even in the winter!
4. Safety Gear: Consider brining a first-aid kit (many GoCamp vans already come with this), extra flashlight batteries, and any essential medication.

The best part about renting a camper van from GoCamp? Everything you’ll need for camping—bedding, cookware, and more—is included. Just pack your clothes and groceries, and you’re ready to roll.

The Perks of Winter Travel Over Summer

Why venture out in the cold when summer seems like a more natural time to travel? Here’s why winter camper van adventures are worth every moment:

• Fewer Crowds: Winter means fewer tourists, more parking spots, and less waiting in line.
• Cost Savings: With fewer people traveling, campgrounds and attractions often lower their fees. Also, GoCamp camper vans are priced lower during the winter months. For even greater savings, check for winter promotions, which usually come up at the end of the year!
• Unique Experiences: From snow-capped vistas to tranquil hikes on empty trails, winter offers unparalleled beauty.

And when you travel in a camper van, you have the added luxury of staying toasty while immersed in the unique winter scenery.

Start Your Winter Camper Van Adventure

With stunning landscapes, exciting activities, and the cozy comfort of a GoCamp camper van, winter camping offers an unforgettable experience. From the rugged Rockies to the peaceful Pacific Northwest, the best winter vacations in the US await—and thanks to GoCamp’s curated, winter-ready camper vans, it’s easier than ever to hit the road.

Check out GoCamp’s fleet and book your camper van today. Magical memories are just one road trip away. 

For more travel inspiration and guides, check out our blog. Get out there and wander this winter!