Drive South for the Winter: Top 5 RV Destinations to Escape the Cold

Are you looking to escape the cold and have some fun in the sun? Try these amazing spots for an RV Winter vacation. East coast, west coast, and in between—we’ve got you covered with the best winter travel suggestions in the country.

Tampa, Florida

We’ve enjoyed two fabulous winters in the Tampa Bay area and can’t wait to go back. From the amazing weather to the wide range of activities and a prime location for day trips, Tampa is at the top of our list of winter destinations.

Beaches are obviously a big draw for Florida visitors. Enjoy some of the sandy shores of Tampa Bay or cross the bridge to enjoy the fabulous Gulf Coast.

If the beach is not your scene, there are many quiet county parks and waterways for kayaking. Tampa is also home to a terrific zoo, aquarium, and several museums. Be sure to stay through the winter to enjoy the annual Gasparilla pirate invasion in January complete with a parade and flotilla of boats.

Where to Stay:

• Lazy Days RV Resort is located off Interstate 4 just east of the city. It has a deluxe pool area, fitness room, two dog parks (one for big dogs and one for small), large playground, tennis courts, game room, onsite restaurant, and much more. You can even order food and drinks from the bar poolside.
• Located in Northwest Tampa, Blue Bayou RV Resort is especially popular for the social snowbird crowd and has many activities during the winter months. Set amidst natural surroundings on Double Branch Creek, it doesn’t even seem like you’re in the midst of a city.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Alabama may not be the first state that comes to mind when considering winter destinations, but that is exactly why it is such a great choice.

Not everyone has discovered the peace and tranquility that a winter vacation on Alabama’s beaches can offer. Mild weather (highs in the 50s in January) and bright sun shining on the sand make walks on the beach a perfect way to enjoy your winter days.

Where to Stay:

• Gulf State Park Campground is not your average state park. It has full hook up sites and a range of amenities you’d expect at an RV resort like paths throughout the park for walking and biking, laundry facilities, convenience store, pool, and beach access.
• Within walking distance to the beach and several restaurants, Luxury RV Resort is a great choice in Gulf Shores. Enjoy the large pool or recreation hall with plenty of activities for winter residents. This resort has regular visitors who return year after year.

Galveston, Texas

You don’t have to go to the Caribbean to experience island life. Consider becoming a winter Texan instead. Galveston Island’s tropical climate and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico may provide the relaxing escape you’ve been hoping for.

With a small town culture and southern hospitality, you’ll feel right at home. There’s plenty to explore on this island with 32 miles of beaches, one of the largest collections of Victorian architecture in the country, a charming historic downtown, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Stick around through February to enjoy the third largest Mardi Gras celebration in the United States.

Where to Stay:

• Offering snowbird specials, Stella Mare RV Park provides fantastic rates during the winter season, including discounted monthly rates. This beautiful location boasts 25 acres of lush, scenic terrain perfect for a leisurely stroll right across from the ocean. With unobstructed views of the water, you may never want to leave the resort.
• If you’re looking for a campground with a lazy river, Jamaica Beach RV Park has got you covered. Think multiple swimming pools, one with a swim up bar, mini golf, and public beach access just across the street.
  This RV park is approximately 12 miles outside of the town of Galveston.

Tucson, Arizona

With daytime temperatures rarely dipping below 60 and hardly any sign of rain, Tucson is a top choice for snowbirds looking to soak up some winter sun.

It is the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts and urban explorers alike. For a closer look at the Arizona desert, spend some time hiking the trails of Sabino Canyon or exploring nearby Saguaro National Park.

The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum also provides an interesting look at Tucson’s flora and fauna. For a taste of contemporary Tucson, spend some time perusing the galleries in the Catalina Foothills district or Mission San Xavier del Bac (known as the White Dove of the Desert), a stunning example of 18th-century architecture.

Where to Stay:

• The Tucson Lazy Days KOA offers a true resort experience. Whether you want to relax by one of the two pools, soak in the hot tubs, or play a round on the nine-hole putting green, you’re sure to find something on the full schedule of activities for you.
• Rincon Country West RV Resort has just about any activity you can think of: card games, shuffleboard, wood crafting, quilting, knitting, crocheting, hiking, Bible study, pickleball, tennis, and more. In keeping with the amazing Tucson food scene, they also have food vendors and a weekly farmer’s market.

San Diego, California

Warm winters and a world-famous zoo—what more could you ask for? San Diego offers temperate weather perfect for exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions including its notable food districts, parks, natural reserves, and beaches.

If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, Balboa Park is home to over fifteen museums and its striking old-world Spanish architecture is the perfect place to enjoy open-air concerts.

Where to Stay:

• The San Diego Metro KOA is a beautiful RV park near all of the major attractions. With mature landscaping consisting of numerous eucalyptus trees and flowering hedges to provide privacy, you’ll forget you are in the heart of the city. Enjoy the swimming pool, hot tub, and the onsite cafe. It is located minutes from the San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge.
• Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve is less than 20 miles from La Jolla beaches and the San Diego Zoo but feels like it is in a world of its own. The park itself is huge, with mature trees, and water everywhere. Owned and operated by Padre Dam Municipal Water District, it is a popular fishing and kayaking spot.

We’d love to hear from you! What is your favorite destination for an RV winter vacation? Leave a comment below.

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