RV the Parkway

Navigating the Blue Ridge Parkway with an RV or Travel Trailer

Traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in an RV or travel trailer is an incredible way to experience the mountains in your home-away-from-home. Nothing beats a beautiful, wooded drive! The Parkway was designed many decades ago and features unique challenges for larger vehicles. Keep these factors in mind for a safe, stress-free trip.

Tunnel Clearance

The Parkway has 26 tunnels, and you must know the exact height of your vehicle. The maximum clearance is always at the center line. Review tunnel heights, lengths, and locations before you travel. It is possible to hug the center line in many large motor homes, but some RVers opt to skip the section between Waynesville and Cherokee, NC, where the lowest tunnels are located while others use a tow vehicle to travel that section with the RV safely parked at Waterrock Knob or a nearby campground.

Mountain Grades

Some sections have significant elevation gain or loss, so be sure to review the list of uphill climbs while traveling either northbound or southbound. Use your low gear to save your brakes! If you are moving slowly, please pull over at an overlook to allow other vehicles to pass.

Road Conditions

Curve radiuses are sweeping but not hairpin, but be aware that after heavy rains, some low-hanging tree boughs may brush the top of your rig. This is generally not a safety concern, but it can be surprising!

Camping & Lodging

The Parkway offers a variety of camping options, but know the restrictions for each and plan your trip accordingly.

NPS Campgrounds

The eight National Park Service campgrounds do not offer hookups (electric, water, sewer). Permits are issued for no more than 3 consecutive nights, and group size is limited to 6 people per campsite.

Reservations
Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends or during the busy month of October. Longer vehicles have fewer available sites. Book through Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

First-Come Sites
First-come, first-serve sites are available at each campground, but availability is typically better during the week.

Private Campgrounds

Many privately owned campgrounds are located on or near the Parkway and typically offer full hookups and a variety of amenities. Use our interactive map to find locations.