East Coast National Park Road Trip Guide
Pack your bags and load up the trunk – it’s time for an East Coast National Park road trip! There is no shortage of lovely little stops and iconic must-sees as you weave your way up (or down!) the coast. When it comes to East Coast national park road trips, there are three heavy hitters that have to be on every East Coast road trip bucket list. Each one has unique views, things to do and characteristics that all come together to create the ultimate road trip.
Here is everything you need to add to your East Coast National Park road trip itinerary!
Planning Your East Coast National Park Road Trip
Before you hit the road, let’s talk about planning your east coast national park road trip!
Choose the Right Time: There is no universal “right time” for a road trip. Some may say that the height of fall is best for all the changing leaves at their brightest. Others may say it’s the heat of the summer when the lakes and rivers feel the most refreshing. Others may say it’s the mild weather and budding atmosphere of spring. Which one sounds most interesting to you? That’s the right time to go.
Get the necessary reservations: You don’t want to be up a creek without a paddle or at a campsite without a reservation! Make sure that you have all of your accommodations in advance instead of hedging your bets with first-come-first-serve campsites.
Choosing your activities: The same goes for activities. You may not need to reserve a hiking trail or overlook, but if you want to try rafting the Shenandoah or flying through the trees on a zipline, you should book in advance. Ensuring you have all the activities you want to book in advance sorted will anchor your trip and give you a plan to build off of – not to mention confirming that you actually have a seat on a raft!
National Parks to Add To Your East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
Acadia National Park, Maine
With windswept, rocky beaches and pine tree-covered coastal vistas, Acadia National Park should be at the top of your list. This sprawling national park hugs the coast and has the trifecta of beaches, forests and mountains in one park.
Things To Do
This is a fantastic park for scenic hikes that look over the coast, like the Ocean Path Trail and Precipice Trail. Cadillac Mountain, one of the park’s highlights, is the highest point on the East Coast and provides breathtaking sunrise views. There is also unique bird watching, all levels of mountain biking, and swimming (if you’re feeling brave!).
Places To Stay
While it can be hard to land a sight at these popular campsites, the Blackwoods and Seawall campgrounds are worth the effort! If you stay at Seawall, make sure to stop by Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is one of the most stunning national parks on the east coast, thanks to the dense, tree-covered hills, endless waterfalls and shaded trails, you can spend days meandering through this park.
Things To Do
Shenandoah National Park has fantastic shady hikes like Old Rag Mountain and Dark Hollow Falls. Many hikes lead to beautiful waterfalls or water features. However, the main draw to Shenandoah National Park is all the river activities available on the nearby historic Shenandoah River. From rafting to kayaking, afternoon trips or multi-day adventures, you can find your ideal adventure on the current of this ancient river.
Places To Stay
You’re missing out if you don’t camp or stay along the Shenandoah River while in the area! The pulsing sound of rushing water and brisk riverside air is the perfect thing to fall asleep and wake up to. You can find campsites, glamping, and family-sized cabins along the river!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Right on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, you’ll find a popular national park that is packed with photo-worthy views. Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in the United States. The hazy, misty overlooks in this park are mysterious and eerily beautiful, and once you get into the trails and trees, the fun begins.
Things To Do
In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cades Cove scenic drive offers a picturesque journey through stunning valleys and forests. Visitors can also ascend to Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest peak, where a uniquely designed observation deck provides 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain range. You can also hike the Alum Cave Trail or the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to see lush forests, waterfalls, and distinct rock features.
Places To Stay
When you’re done with the day’s activities and are ready to rest, we recommend the conveniently located and amenity-rich Elkmont Campground for a comfortable and beautiful campsite.
Additional East Coast National Parks
Here are some honorable mentions to add even more fun to your trip!
Everglades National Park, Florida
Easily one of the most unique National Parks, the Everglades are full of diverse ecosystems and interesting wildlife. You can go on boat tours or kayaks and enjoy this park’s grassy, humid, rugged beauty. Just don’t forget the bug spray!
Congaree National Park, South Carolina:
Straight out of a fairytale, Congaree National Park is full of whimsical bridges over dense floodplains and mossy trees. It’s also a sanctuary for fireflies, which light up the park in the evening.
Additional Information on East Coast National Park Road Trip Planning
How many days should I spend in each national park?
We always say the more, the better! A full day in each park will give you a great overview of what each area offers, but we recommend 2 to 3 days to get past the crowds and must-sees and find hidden gems and interesting activities.
Which months are best for visiting national parks?
That depends on what you’re looking for in a trip! Do you want hot weather? Pretty fall leaves? Budding wildflowers? Every season has its unique draws – choose the one that’s right for you!
What is the #1 visited national park on the east coast?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park on the east coast.
Should I start my drive from the north and go south or south to north?
Depends on where you’re starting! There isn’t a right or wrong way to do an east coast road trip, so choose the direction that works best for you.
The sun is shining, and the river is pumping – now is the time to start that East Coast National Park road trip and wind your way to Shenandoah! If you end up in the Front Royal Area on your trip, check out all the thrilling and relaxing river activities we offer to plan a memorable afternoon on the Shenandoah River!
