Sometimes the best RV experiences aren’t found at big-name resorts or bustling national parks. If you’re craving solitude, natural beauty, or a more intimate connection to the places you visit, there are plenty of underrated overnight destinations that can offer just that. These hidden gem RV spots may not get all the hype, but that’s part of what makes them so special. Whether you’re crossing states or just need a quiet overnight recharge, spots like Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina or Devils Tower KOA in Wyoming offer something truly memorable. Below are five off-the-beaten-path RV stops that provide scenery, comfort, and a touch of adventure, without the crowd.
1. Hunting Island State Park – Hunting Island, South Carolina
Hunting Island State Park feels like a castaway’s dream. Tucked along the South Carolina coast, just a short drive from Beaufort, this beachfront campground is both wildly beautiful and wonderfully low-key. Towering palmettos and thick maritime forest surround the campsites, giving each one a cocoon of greenery and natural shade. The real draw here is the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Many sites are just a short walk to the sand, where you can catch sunrise over the water with only a few footprints around.
Campsites come with water and electric hookups, though the vibe is more rustic than resort-style. Bring your own beach chairs, firewood, and a good flashlight. Once the sun sets, the park gets dark, quiet, and full of stars. One of the standout attractions is the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline and marshes, then take a stroll on the nature trails that weave through maritime forest, saltwater lagoons, and birdwatching spots.
Sleeping here is an experience in itself. The sound of waves crashing and the whisper of breeze through palmettos makes it feel like nature’s lullaby. Just keep an eye out for raccoons; this is their paradise, too.
2. Catalina State Park – Tucson, Arizona
Catalina State Park might not be the first place you think of for an overnight RV stay, but once you camp here, it’ll be hard to forget. Nestled at the base of the stunning Santa Catalina Mountains just north of Tucson, this desert gem blends sweeping views with a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in more popular southwestern destinations.
Each site is generously spaced, offering water and electric hookups, and plenty of room for slide-outs and awnings. If you visit in spring, you’ll often be surrounded by iconic saguaro cacti, mesquite trees, and desert wildflowers. The sunsets here are electric, think pinks, purples, and deep orange hues stretching across the sky with the mountains as your backdrop.
Daytime activities are plentiful. There are several trailheads right at the edge of the campground, offering access to hikes like the Romero Pools Trail or the Sutherland Trail. Both provide scenic overlooks, desert wildlife sightings, and, depending on the time of year, seasonal water features. In the evening, don’t be surprised if you hear coyotes calling or spot a curious roadrunner zipping through camp.
This is an ideal stop for anyone looking for a quiet night under the stars without sacrificing basic comforts.
3. Devils Tower KOA – Devils Tower, Wyoming
For a truly one-of-a-kind overnight experience, park your rig at the base of Devils Tower, America’s first national monument. The KOA here is more than just a convenient stopover; it’s a front-row seat to one of the country’s most mysterious and visually striking natural landmarks.
The campground sits on a family-run working ranch, giving it a peaceful, rural feel. Sites include full hookups, picnic tables, and fire pits. The best sites offer direct views of the towering monolith. As the sun sets, the rock glows pink and orange, and at night, the sky fills with stars thanks to the area’s minimal light pollution.
One of the coolest features of this KOA is its nightly outdoor screening of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, which was filmed at Devils Tower. Bring a blanket or camp chair and enjoy the movie under the very formation that inspired its climax.
There are plenty of walking paths nearby, and a short drive gets you to the monument’s visitor center and the Tower Trail, a 1.3-mile paved loop around the base that offers up-close views and a sense of the spiritual and geological wonder of the place. It’s a powerful, peaceful stop that feels worlds away from your average RV park.
4. Silver Springs State Park – Ocala, Florida
Most people don’t associate Florida camping with monkeys, but Silver Springs State Park offers a twist on the traditional Sunshine State getaway. Located in central Florida near Ocala, this park is best known for its crystal-clear freshwater springs and the famous glass-bottom boat tours that made it a tourist destination in the 1870s.
The RV campground is surrounded by towering oaks and dense undergrowth, making it feel tucked away and quiet even though it’s not far from town. Sites come with water, electric hookups, and plenty of shade. A peaceful night here might include the distant hoot of an owl, a soft rustle in the trees, and the gurgle of nearby water.
You can rent kayaks, take a boat tour, or simply hike the well-marked trails that crisscross the park. If you’re lucky, you may spot one of the park’s resident rhesus monkeys, a population introduced initially in the 1930s and now wild.
This spot offers an authentic slice of natural Florida: lush, strange, and full of stories, without the bustle of the state’s theme parks or beach crowds.
5. Anvil Campground – Williamsburg, Virginia
Historic and homey, Anvil Campground is a small, family-owned gem often overshadowed by bigger RV resorts in Virginia. But don’t overlook it. Located just minutes from Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and other historical sites, this campground makes a perfect overnight for travelers interested in American history or looking for a welcoming, laid-back place to rest.
Campsites are fully equipped with hookups, and the owners have paid close attention to detail, offering well-maintained bathrooms, a small pool, laundry facilities, and even a game room. The cozy setup makes it ideal for families or couples wanting to stay close to town without sacrificing comfort or privacy.
The campground even runs a shuttle service to nearby attractions, making it easy to tour historic sites without the hassle of parking your RV in busy areas. After a long day of walking cobblestone streets and touring 18th-century homes, returning to a quiet, tree-lined campsite with a friendly, local vibe is nice.
This is a great example of a small operation doing everything right, clean, convenient, and welcoming.
How to Discover Hidden Gem RV Stops Like These
Sometimes, the best overnight stays don’t show up on Google’s first page. Finding these lesser-known gems takes a little more effort, but the reward is well worth it. One of the best ways to uncover hidden spots is to tap into the RV community itself. Fellow travelers, especially seasoned full-timers, are often a goldmine of recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask at campgrounds, in RV Facebook groups, or even in campground review threads.
Apps like Campendium, iOverlander, and The Dyrt are great for uncovering lesser-known campgrounds, especially when looking beyond five-star luxury and focusing on experience and location. Many state parks and county-run campgrounds don’t advertise widely but offer peaceful settings, basic amenities, and often cheaper rates.
Another tip? Take the scenic route. You’ll often find wonderful campgrounds just a few miles off the main highway that other travelers are speeding right past. National forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas also host hidden gems, and many allow free or low-cost overnight parking in beautiful settings.
Finally, consider timing. Even popular parks can feel like a secret escape if you go mid-week or during the shoulder seasons in spring or fall. Fewer people, quieter surroundings, and sometimes better weather make these times ideal for discovering new favorites.