Best 4th of July Destinations in a Motorhome
The smell of burgers and hot dogs on the grill, neighborhood streets filled with parades overflowing with red, white, and blue, and the orchestration of booming lights igniting into the night sky– all the things that make up a classic Independence Day celebration. For many Americans, that’s the dream. But for others, the 4th of July is a time to pack up their pups and head out of town, far away from the noise, the heat, and the crowds. Whatever your 4th of July style, in a motorhome, the open roads of the U.S.A. are yours for the exploring, and we’ve got a few ideas to get you inspired.
Celebrate in the Outdoors by the Water with a Mountain View
The biggest draw to Lake George Village in New York is the incredible scenery. Roll into town and set up camp at their RV Park and Resort, and get ready to stretch your legs. Take a hike in the Adirondacks up to French Mountain where you’ll have picture-perfect views of both the lake and the mountains. If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, the amenities scattered across this woodsy 120-acre escape alone are enough to keep you entertained, including picnic areas, arcades, and even a theater that hosts plays and movie nights. There’s a trolley to get you back and forth, so you’ll never need to move your motorhome from its landing. Each year, Lake George buzzes with Independence Day celebrations, from live music to fireworks, and everything in-between, it’s a great spot to spend your holiday weekend. Check their website for campsite openings and up-coming festivities.
Escape the Fireworks Out West
Red Fleet State Park in Utah boasts over 29 campsites for you to choose from, and it’s pet-friendly! Rather than spending Independence Day sedating or consoling your pup, use the holiday to travel to a new destination and escape the noise. All 29 campsites within Red Fleet are equipped with tables, grills, and firepits. Some sites include electrical and water hook-ups, and with so many sights to explore nearby, any of the campsites will serve as a perfect home base before heading out for an adventure. Check out the Dinosaur National Monument, Utah Field House of Natural History Museum, or the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Take your furry friends out for a hike through dinosaur tracks, go boating and fishing on Red Fleet Reservoir, or pack a picnic to enjoy while overlooking sandstone and desert, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. And all the while, hearing absolutely no fireworks.
Breathe Fresh Atlantic Island Air
Escape the heat and humidity and experience Bar Harbor, Maine along the Atlantic coast with your pets in tow. Located along Frenchman’s Bay on Mount Desert Island, the town of Bar Harbour is truly unique. It’s ocean cliffs and rocky beaches are begging to be photographed, and the mountain views and lake-filled valleys are yours for the hiking. If you look hard enough, you might even spot a whale or the rare Atlantic puffin. Visit the highest point in the North Atlantic seaboard, Cadillac Mountain, inside one of the most visited parks in the U.S., Acadia National Park. Although the Mt. Desert Narrows Camping Resort is pet-friendly, there will be fireworks nearby on the 4th. Check out the full schedule of events happening this year.
Go Big in a Small Town
Addison, Texas, also known as “Kaboomtown,” is a dream spot for any Independence Day lover looking for a small town feel. And when we say small, we mean it. Addison has an area of 4.4 miles and around 15,000 residents, but it’s brimming with charm. The activities, establishments, and entertainment are family-friendly, but not pet-friendly. Find your way over to Addison Circle Park where they really have it all, from bands and carnival rides to an enormous fireworks show put on by the local Flight Museum, and even an afterparty. It’s important to note, they celebrate on July, 3rd, not the 4th. If you get your fill of the sun, you can always stroll into any of the local restaurants who host “watch parties” all day and into the night. You may need to park the motorhome outside of town and drive in for the festivities, but there are several great RV park options to choose from in the surrounding areas.
Relax with Sand Between Your Toes
At Camp Gulf in Destin, Florida, you’ll be living the beach resort lifestyle at a fraction of the price, just steps from the sand. You’ll have your very own firepit and all the amenities of a private home on the beach combined with the features of a resort, including a pool and slides for the kids, an activity center, laundry facilities, on-site activities, and even recreation rentals. The Florida panhandle has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Although there are no fireworks allowed on the Camp Gulf beach, there is a major fireworks show for the 4th over East Pass beginning at 9 p.m. You can view the show from Harborwalk Village, from the beaches along Gulf Shore Drive, or from a number of harborfront establishments. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, take out a boat and anchor down for the big show. Imagine the fireworks bursting through the sky, reflecting off the ocean waves at night. It will be magical.
