Autumn is a great time for a road-trip: crisp air, bright colors, and open highways. But this year, we’re hearing something different — multiple park hosts and RVers are reporting quieter sites than in recent peak seasons. "Some were actually almost empty!" According to RV Travel’s analysis, several contributing factors may be at work: some longtime travelers are doing shorter stays or skipping giant “bucket-list” trips, many bookings are being made last minute (rather than months ahead), and while demand overall remains strong, the mix and timing are changing.
Whatever the reason, this fall is shaping up to be one of the calmest, quietest times in years to hit the road. That means fewer crowds, easier reservations, and more room to breathe under the trees.
Traveling by RV lets you chase the colors wherever they’re best—from golds in the mountains to reds along the rivers. You can stay flexible, adjust your route, and take your time. Parks are reporting at least 3%-5% fewer guests this year, so you’ll find more available sites, more peace, and less competition for the best views. Here are a few of our favorite places to roll through while autumn does its thing.
1. Washington
Start your fall adventure right here in Washington, where the mountains and coast come alive in color. From Olympia, head east toward Snoqualmie Pass or up to the North Cascades. The alpine lakes glow turquoise against ridges of fiery larch and maple. Stop at Lake Wenatchee State Park, where golden aspens line the water, or drive Highway 20 through North Cascades National Park, often called the “American Alps.”
With summer crowds gone you can actually hear the waterfalls and spot wildlife again—black-tailed deer, mountain goats, even the occasional eagle perched over the Skagit River. Trails like Blue Lake or Maple Pass Loop show off sweeping views without packed parking lots. Many RVers report entire campgrounds half-empty this season, so it’s the perfect time to pull in, set up your awning, and enjoy the sound of the wind in the trees.
2. Oregon
Just across the Columbia River, Oregon’s fall colors are equally stunning—and right now, surprisingly quiet. The Columbia River Gorge glows with vine maple, cottonwood, and scarlet sumac. Take a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, where nearly every turn offers a postcard view. Trails like Multnomah Falls, Eagle Creek, and Dog Mountain are easier to enjoy without the usual crowds.
“Multnomah Falls Fall Colors” by Jay Huang, licensed under CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/).
If you’re into waterfalls, autumn’s rain brings them roaring back to life. At dusk, grab a camp chair and watch the river light up in shades of orange and pink. Want a more coastal feel? Drive west to Cape Lookout State Park, where you can camp steps from the ocean and wake up to fog rolling in over the sand. With fewer visitors this year, you might just have an ocean-front campsite all to yourself.
3. Canada (British Columbia)
If you’re ready to go a little farther, head north into British Columbia—the border crossings are easy this time of year, and the scenery is world-class. In the fall, BC’s interior glows with golden larches, crimson maples, and clear blue lakes. The Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler might be one of the most beautiful drives in North America. Stop at Garibaldi Provincial Park or Joffre Lakes, where the contrast of teal water and orange forest is unreal.
If you prefer quiet solitude, explore Kootenay National Park or the Okanagan Valley, where the vineyards are turning color too. Fall means fewer RVs on the road and lower park fees, so you can spend a night under the stars without the summer rush. Campground hosts say many sites are sitting empty—it’s almost eerie, but in the best way.
4. Montana
Montana in the fall feels like stepping back in time. The valleys of Glacier National Park are painted in amber and gold, and the crisp air carries that wood-smoke smell every camper loves. Stay at West Glacier RV Park, where you can stroll into town for coffee in the morning and hike to Avalanche Lake by afternoon.
Wildlife is more active now—elk bugling in the distance, bears foraging for berries, and herds of bighorn sheep along the cliffs. Even popular spots like Many Glacier feel peaceful this time of year. Local rangers say the drop in visitors this fall has been dramatic—a rare window to see Glacier without the bustle. Bring layers though; nights can dip below freezing.
Handy Tips for a Smooth Fall RV Trip
Check fall-color trackers. Each region hits its peak at different times. Apps and local park websites can help you plan so you don’t miss the best color.
Prepare your RV for the season. Expect cooler nights, wet roads, and fallen leaves. Make sure your tires, seals, and heating systems are ready (and yes, we can help you with this!).
Take your time. Autumn is about slowing down—staying an extra night, cooking over a campfire, walking that extra mile to a hidden viewpoint.
Respect the land. Stick to designated sites, pack out trash, and leave the space even cleaner than you found it.
Why Ernie’s RV is the Perfect Launch Point
Whether you’re a weekend wanderer or planning a longer adventure, Ernie’s RV in Olympia is your starting line for adventure. We’ll help you choose the right RV for your trip, get it road-ready, and set you up with everything from power adapters to cold-weather gear. Our team knows the local routes, seasonal campgrounds, and hidden gems—and we’re always happy to share advice from the road.
And here’s the kicker: before you hit the road, schedule your free RV Safety & Performance Inspection with us. Our expert technicians will give your rig a full visual inspection—brakes, axles, suspension, drive-train, roof and exterior electrical. We’ll text/email you pictures and a description of anything we spot, plus a quote if you’d like us to fix it. No cost. No pressure. Just call us or use the "Make an Appointment" button to schedule a time to bring in your rig. (360) 763-0701
Make sure your RV is safe. Make sure it’s adventure-ready. Then roll out into fall while the parks are quiet and the colors are peaking.