When you think of the natural wonders of the United States, you probably think of national park classics like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Great Smoky Mountains. These places are incredible, but there’s more to the National Park Service than the parks. The NPS is also one of eight federal agencies that oversee a long list of national monuments. National monuments are protected federal sites created by U.S. presidents under the authority of the Antiquities Act of 1906. These are sites deemed to be of significant national historical or scientific interest. And all of them make great RV travel destinations.
Before you roll, snag a copy of National Geographic’s Complete Guide to National Parks and Monuments, use this guided search to find the right RV for you, and then, stock up on these RV road trip essentials to be all ready to rock.
You may not make it to all 129 sites, so we thought we’d help you narrow down your list. Here are 11 must-see national monuments to see before you die.
Rent An RV For A Monumental Trip
1. Statue of Liberty, New York
The iconic Lady Liberty was a gift from the French people to the American people to celebrate the virtues of liberty and democracy. It has become one of the universal icons of America and an inspiration to the millions that have immigrated through Ellis Island over the years. Seeing the statue in person is a moving experience you won’t forget.
The Statue of Liberty is located on a small island, so you’ll need to take a ferry to get there. Smaller RVs can park in one of the two ferry parking lots. Others will need to find out-of-town accommodations, then drive in. Ellis Island is also well worth visiting if you are heading to see the statue and the immigration museum there is not to miss.
Where to Camp
Liberty Harbor RV Park, located in Jersey City, New Jersey, offers one of the most unique RV camping experiences near New York City. Just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, this park provides stunning views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty. It offers full hookup sites and easy access to public transportation, allowing campers to visit iconic New York City landmarks. Liberty Harbor is an ideal choice for those who want to stay close to the city while enjoying the comfort and amenities of RV camping.
2. Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming
Devils Tower is the nation’s first national monument, established by the great Teddy Roosevelt. The moment you see it in person, you’ll understand why. It is a truly unique marvel of nature. Once a sacred site for Native Americans—long before white settlers encountered it—the tower is majestic, alien, and totally awe-inspiring. It has even been featured on shows like The UnXplained on the History Channel thanks to its mysterious beginnings.
There are a number of excellent hikes in the area surrounding the tower, which is also home to a large prairie dog colony on the road to the monument—something kids of all ages will love watching.
Where to Camp
One of the nicest KOA Kampgrounds in the U.S. is located on the outskirts of the monument and affords great views of Devil’s Tower. Although there are somewhat less expensive options nearby, none offer such great views of the monument.
3. The Giant Sequoia National Monument, California
No matter how many times you see the Giant Sequoias in person, they will take your breath away. These are the largest trees in the world, and quite possibly the largest species ever to exist on earth. Some of them have lived for more than 3,000 years. Standing next to these giants is both humbling and exhilarating—they are a monument to the awesome power of life.
The Sequoias are great to visit at all times of the year, but you’ll need an RV ready to handle snowy roads if you go in winter. There are plenty of RV parks in the vicinity but they can fill up quickly during the peak summer season.
Check out this National Geographic guide to map out all the epic hikes you’ll take at Sequoia.
Where to Camp
The best place to camp near the Giant Sequoia National Monument is Quaking Aspen Campground. Located in the Sequoia National Forest, this campground offers stunning proximity to sequoia groves, including the renowned Freeman Creek Grove and McIntyre Grove. Situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet, it provides a peaceful environment with easy access to several natural attractions, such as the Tule River and Bear Creek. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, including the nearby Summit Trailhead, and fishing in area streams.
4. Mount St. Helens, Washington
In 1980, the scenic Mount St. Helens erupted in the most violent and costly volcanic event in U.S. history. A vast portion of the mountain was annihilated in the cataclysmic blast. When you look at before and after pictures, the devastation is mind-boggling. When you see the mountain in person, it’s even more so.
You can read all about it in Eruption: The Untold Story of Mount St. Helens.
The notion of such a huge object being destroyed in a moment gives you great respect for the tectonic forces of the earth. It’s a place of intense scientific interest, both for geology and biology as the area is re-settled by living species after utter destruction.
You can’t camp directly on the mountain, but the parking lot at the site does accommodate a wide range of RVs. The road up to the visitor’s center is a great scenic drive when the weather is clear.
Where to Camp
You can’t camp directly on the mountain, but the parking lot at the site does accommodate a wide range of RVs.
For overnight accommodations look at Seaquest State Park. Located near Silver Lake, it’s just a short distance from the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, where you can explore exhibits on the 1980 eruption and enjoy scenic views of the area. Seaquest has 52 campsites, including 18 partial hookup sites and 15 full hookups. It also offers amenities such as hiking trails, birdwatching, and access to the nearby Mount St. Helens Interpretive Center.
5. George Washington Birthplace, Virginia
While the location itself may not be awe-inspiring, the legacy of the man that was born here is. His place as the father of the United States is well deserved. In his time, George Washington was revered like no other man in the U.S. He could have easily been president for life, but instead, he voluntarily ceded power after his second term setting a critical precedent for future leaders to follow.
Ideally, you should time your visit with one of the many reenactment events that are held on the grounds. History buffs of the revolutionary period have made the George Washington Birthplace a hub of their activities. If you want the full George Washington experience, you should also visit his family home at Mount Vernon.
Where to Camp
For RV camping near George Washington Birthplace National Monument, the most convenient option is Westmoreland State Park. This park is located about 10 miles from the monument and offers spacious RV sites with full hookups. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and historical sites, offering easy access to both the monument and the nearby Potomac River.
6. Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska
In 1978, President Jimmy Carter designated over 2,200,000 acres of forest and fjords in Southern Alaska to be a national monument. Today, Misty Fjords remains the largest wilderness area in the Tongass National Forest. Here, you’ll find tall cliffs that rise like skyscrapers from the waters of the deep fjords.
As for activities, ten trails provide over 20 miles of hiking opportunities. Visitors can travel by boat or floatplane through the waterways for up-close wildlife experiences with creatures like killer whales, porpoises, mountain goats, and bears. The Tongass National Forest is home to numerous campgrounds and camping areas, so you’ll be sure to find a place to park your rig for the night.
Where to Camp
The Tongass National Forest is home to numerous campgrounds and camping areas, so you’ll be sure to find a place to park your rig for the night. Just be sure to pack everything you need to stay comfortable while boondocking including plenty of water, a way to charge your batteries, food, and a way to collect garbage for disposal.
7. Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona
If you like rocks, this is the national monument for you. Chiricahua National Monument is home to a geologic garden of crazy rock formations. It is especially known for its balancing rocks, huge boulders supported by only a tiny column of stone. You can take a number of hikes into the crazy landscape to view these wonders up close. Just be aware, it can be blazing hot in high summer. This national monument is also an incredible spot for bird watching. It’s a stopover for many migratory birds, including those that normally live in South and Central America.
Where to Camp
Onsite camping at Chiricahua National Monument is available at the Bonita Canyon Campground, which is situated within the monument itself. This small, first-come, first-served campground features 25 sites that can accommodate tents and RVs up to 30 feet long. Each site offers picnic tables, fire rings, and access to vault toilets. The campground is open year-round and is surrounded by scenic views, including the striking rock formations that the park is famous for. Although there are no hookups, water is available from a nearby spigot. For those looking for a more immersive experience, it’s an excellent base for hiking and wildlife watching in this remote part of Arizona.
The monument does have its own camping, but the RV sites are limited to 28-feet so you’ll have to find parking outside the park for larger rigs.
8. Bandelier National Monument, New Mexico
Bandelier is a fascinating monument that is both a place of rich natural beauty and cultural history. This sheltered valley is a natural oasis and was home to the cliff-dwelling native people of the desert Southwest. The cliff-carved dwellings are fascinating windows to the past, naturally fortified against attack yet close to the life-giving valley below. This monument has a nice museum, and hosts numerous cultural and scientific events to entertain and educate the public.
You can’t camp on-site here, but there are numerous campgrounds in the area that cater to all manner of RVs. From here, there are quite a few great places to visit and explore.
Where to Camp
The best place to camp while visiting Bandelier National Monument is Juniper Family Campground. Located within the park, this campground offers 53 individual campsites that can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tent campers. Some sites can fit RVs up to 40 feet, making it ideal for larger vehicles. The campground is open year-round, and reservations are available for most sites, though some are first-come, first-served. It provides a peaceful setting with easy access to the park’s hiking trails and archaeological sites, making it a perfect base for exploring the monument’s offerings.
9. Fort Sumter, South Carolina
You could spend an entire year touring all the civil war monuments and sites in the Southeastern U.S. All of them are fascinating and worth visiting. But if you have to pick a place to start, Fort Sumter is a great choice. This is where the first shots were fired in the war as the Confederates attacked and captured it on April 12, 1861. The fort had remained in active service for 171 years; from 1776 to 1947. It has been lovingly restored and maintained by the parks service.
Traveling with kiddos? The Mystery at Fort Sumter is a children’s book that presents the history of this important spot in a very approachable way.
Like many Civil War sites, you may want to time your visit with a reenactment event. Reenactments bring sizable crowds, but they also really enhance the historical experience, bringing the past to life.
Where to Camp
If you’re looking for a great spot to RV camp near Fort Sumter, Lake Aire RV Park & Campground is an excellent option. Located just outside Charleston, it offers 92 RV sites, with amenities like electric hook-ups, a children’s playground, and picnic tables. The park is set in over 35 acres of scenic grasslands, providing a peaceful environment for a relaxing stay.
10. Natural Bridges, Utah
Utah is home to so many awe-inspiring natural wonders that it’s nearly impossible to avoid falling in love with the state. Natural Bridges was Utah’s first national monument. Named for the huge natural stone arches found here, it has both the second and third largest arches in the U.S. Beyond the arches, the landscape itself is gorgeous and there are lots of great hikes to take here. Be sure to visit the park at night as well to see some of the darkest skies in the nation. The summer milky way is amazing against the silhouette of the arches.
Where to Camp
Located within the monument, Natural Bridges National Monument Campground is a small, first-come, first-served campground that offers 13 sites for RVs up to 26 feet. It’s perfect for those who want to be close to the monument and enjoy the beautiful desert landscape. The campground is basic with vault toilets, trash services, and no water or hookups, but you can fill water at the visitor center. It’s also known for its excellent stargazing opportunities
11. Craters of the Moon, Idaho
Craters of the Moon is the best-preserved lava field in the continental U.S. Although the lava fields located in Hawaii are active, the island is sadly not an easy place to drive to in an RV. For those living in the continental U.S., Craters of the Moon is your best bet for seeing what a lava-covered landscape looks like. It’s part of a region called “the great rift” which has seen volcanic eruptions for thousands of years due to cracks in the continental crust. The whole area is a geological wonderland.
Craters of the Moon also has quite a few lava caves you can explore—some of which have year-round ice in them and are great escapes for beating the summer heat. Just be sure to bring sturdy shoes as the rocky landscape is not easy on the feet.
Where to Camp
Lava Flow Campground is located inside Craters of the Moon National Monument. It’s very low-cost, but it lacks electricity, showers, and a dump station. It does offer potable water and flush toilets. This campground operates seasonally from May through November and is first-come, first-served. While it offers a rustic experience, it’s ideal for those wanting to stay as close to the park as possible
National Monument FAQ
Get answers to the most common questions about national monuments.
How is a National Monument different from a National Park?
- Designation: National Monuments are often designated by the President using the Antiquities Act, while National Parks require congressional approval.
- Purpose: Monuments focus on protecting specific features, while parks prioritize broader recreational and ecological preservation.
- Management: National Monuments can be managed by different agencies, including the National Park Service, BLM, U.S. Forest Service, or Fish and Wildlife Service, depending on the site.
How many National Monuments are there?
As of now, there are over 130 National Monuments in the United States. The number can increase as new areas are designated.
Can you camp at National Monuments?
Some National Monuments offer camping facilities, but many do not. Camping options may include:
- Designated campgrounds.
- Dispersed camping on adjacent BLM or National Forest land.
- Always check specific regulations for the monument you plan to visit.
Do I need a permit to visit a National Monument?
Most National Monuments are open to the public without a permit. However, permits may be required for:
- Special activities like photography, filming, or events.
- Backcountry camping or hiking in certain areas.
Are National Monuments free to visit?
Many National Monuments have free entry, but some charge a fee. Fees typically range from $5–$25 per vehicle. Check the official website for fee details.
What activities can I do at National Monuments?
Activities vary depending on the monument but may include:
- Hiking and wildlife observation.
- Photography and stargazing.
- Visiting historical or cultural landmarks.
- Boating, fishing, or rock climbing (in specific locations).
Are dogs allowed at National Monuments?
Pets are allowed in many National Monuments but must typically be leashed and are restricted from certain areas, such as archaeological sites or sensitive habitats. Always check the pet policy for your destination.
Are there guided tours available?
Many National Monuments offer ranger-led programs, guided hikes, or educational tours. Check the visitor center or official website for schedules.
Can I collect artifacts or rocks at National Monuments?
No. Removing or disturbing artifacts, rocks, plants, or wildlife is prohibited. National Monuments are protected areas, and visitors must leave everything as they find it.
How do I know which agency manages a National Monument?
The managing agency depends on the monument’s features:
- National Park Service (NPS): Focuses on cultural and historical preservation.
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM): Manages larger, more remote monuments with fewer facilities.
- U.S. Forest Service (USFS): Oversees monuments with significant natural features in forested areas.
- Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS): Protects wildlife habitats within the monument.
What are the Leave No Trace principles for visiting National Monuments?
- Plan Ahead: Know the rules and regulations.
- Stay on Trails: Avoid damaging vegetation or fragile ecosystems.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance.
- Be Considerate: Minimize noise and respect other visitors.
Can I use drones in National Monuments?
Drones are generally prohibited in National Monuments managed by the National Park Service and other agencies. Always verify the rules for the specific monument.
Are National Monuments open year-round?
Most National Monuments are open year-round, but some areas may close seasonally due to weather conditions, maintenance, or wildlife protection. Check operating hours before visiting.
How can I find nearby National Monuments?
- Use the National Park Service website or BLM.gov.
- Explore travel apps like AllTrails, Recreation.gov, or Google Maps.
How can I support National Monuments?
- Volunteer: Join cleanup or conservation projects.
- Donate: Contribute to conservation organizations or friends groups.
- Practice Responsible Recreation: Follow all rules and leave no trace.
Ready to blaze a trail and visit these amazing national monuments? Get started by finding the perfect RV to get you there.
