Top RV Snowbird Destinations to Escape Winter

Oh, the weather outside is frightful… for people whose houses aren’t on wheels, that is!

One of the best parts of the RV lifestyle is the ability to simply follow warm weather wherever it may lead. And now that chilly temperatures have come calling in most of America, you may have found yourself reaching for your road atlas as well as your favorite blanket.

You may already have a favorite winter haven, or maybe this is your first year taking to the road to escape Jack Frost.

Either way, we put together this list of some of the best warm places to spend the winter, whether you’re a retiree snowbird who never plans to pick up a snow shovel again… or just taking a well-deserved break from this year’s ice capades.

How to Choose Your Snowbird Destination

While the locations we’ve included below are among the warmest in the U.S. year-round and all have their own unique features and fun to-dos, the truth is, there are so many places across the map for snowbirds to choose from. Deciding where to weather your winter comes down to understanding what you’re looking for in a destination.

Maybe you’re a beach bunny who’s always happiest with your skin bared to the shining sun, or maybe you’re a desert lover whose favorite winter pastime is hiking through a rugged red-rock landscape. Either way, when deciding where to spend your snowbird season, consider the following:

• Consider the exact climate you prefer, including how warm you want it and whether you like dry or humid weather.
• Think about the landscapes and overall vibe you enjoy most, such as beaches, deserts, mountains, or lively cities.
• Identify the activities you want easy access to, like hiking, biking, arts and culture, or great food.
• Factor in the local cost of living and whether camping fees, activities, groceries, and dining fit your budget.
• Check how easy it is to get there, including what you might see along the route and your total travel time.
• Keep in mind who will be joining you and whether the destination is convenient and enjoyable for them. (Don’t forget to check for pet-friendliness if you’re bringing Fido!)
• Make sure the area offers the healthcare facilities you need, good pharmacies, and a general sense of safety.
• Decide what kind of community atmosphere you want, whether social and active or quiet and private. (This can help you distinguish between more off-the-grid camping locales and bustling towns.)
• Be aware of seasonal quirks specific to the area like peak tourist months, rainy seasons, wind, or allergens.

Popular Snowbird Destinations

Looking for the best places to spend the chilly winter months? Wondering where the most experienced snowbirds fly off to winter?

Here are some of our favorite destinations in the United States for those hoping to escape the cold.

1. Coastal Georgia

While there are many places along coastal Georgia that would be well worth a snowbird’s attention, Tybee Island is our favorite. That’s thanks to its proximity to Savannah as well as its calm beachside vibe complete with a dash of history. Here’s what you won’t want to miss.

Things to Do

• Walk the beach sweeping views of the coast and Atlantic Ocean.
• Take a dolphin-watching boat tour for a chance to see wild dolphins around the island’s waterways.
• Explore the historic Fort Screven nearby for a glimpse into Civil War history and scenic marsh-land surroundings.
• Rent a bike and ride around the island — it’s bike-friendly and a great way to see beaches, marshes, and the scenic coastline.
• Take a day trip to Savannah for fine dining, cocktails, and more historical tours.

RV Parks

River’s End Campground is a favorite, and there are other private (and public) campgrounds to choose from in the wider Savannah area.

Best Time to Stay

Snowbirders often choose to stay near Tybee Island over the winter, but the following windows are also worth considering for different reasons:

• Spring (March through May): Warm, comfortable weather, fewer tourists than summer — great for walking the beach, exploring, and relaxing.
• Fall (September through November): Mild weather, less crowding, often more peaceful and more affordable than summer.

2. The Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a classic snowbird destination for good reason. You can while away the winter with a fishing pole in one hand and a piña colada in the other. While you can enjoy almost any part of the Keys during any part of winter, we specifically recommend Big Pine Key due to its proximity to nearby Bahia Honda State Park, which offers several well-appointed campgrounds including hookup sites. You can enjoy the best of the Florida Keys without Key West prices.

Things to Do

• Visit the Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge to (quietly) see the tiny native deer and enjoy calm nature and wetlands.
• Go snorkeling or kayaking in the clear, shallow waters — or take a ferry out to visit Dry Tortugas National Park for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
• Fish or try light-tackle flats fishing (or charter fishing) in the waters around Big Pine Key, which are famous for good salt-water fishing.
• Explore the surrounding Keys, including day trips to Key West, Key Largo and other famous areas.

RV Parks

Along with the campgrounds inside Bahia Honda State Park, there are lots of resort-style RV campgrounds all along the Keys. Some favorites include Big Pine Key RV Park and Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina. For another well-appointed public option, try out Curry Hammock State Park.

Best Time to Stay

Because of how hot and humid the summers can be, the winter months are actually the very best time to stay in the Florida Keys. Anytime from about November to March will be milder, though there will be a lot of other people on the islands getting away from their own winters.

3. Northern Arizona

While Southern Arizona is probably the better-known snowbird destination, and a worthy one, we pick Northern Arizona for those who can handle a little bit of chill, but still want some sun. Flagstaff is a great home base: a quaint college town that’s just a little over an hour away from Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most beloved in the nation’s system. (And you don’t even have to go that far to get to destinations like Wupatki National Monument or Slide Rock State Park.) Because daytime temperatures will hover in the 40s, you won’t freeze, but you’ll still get the sense that winter’s in the air. Here’s what to do and see while you’re there.

Things to Do

• Explore the Lowell Observatory for stargazing and astronomy experiences in clear, dark skies.
• Hike or bike in the nearby Coconino National Forest for scenic trails and alpine landscapes.
• Meander historic downtown Flagstaff for local shops, breweries, art galleries and live shows.
• Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon or Sedona — both are accessible and offer iconic Arizona scenery.
• Enjoy winter sports at the Arizona Snowbowl like skiing and snowboarding, if you’re amenable to the cold.

RV Parks

Along with all the beautiful natural areas surrounding town, some of which offer dispersed camping or developed campgrounds, you can also explore private RV parks in the area as well.

Best Time to Stay

While you can’t go wrong any time of year (with the possible exception of high summer, when the heat is bananas and the crowds can be, too), there are a couple of prime windows to visit Flagstaff:

• Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November): Mild, sunny weather with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Winter (December–February): Colder, but perfect if you enjoy snow sports and cozy mountain towns; still plenty of sun.

4. South Florida

Another classic snowbirding spot, South Florida truly has something to offer every snowbird, whether you’re looking for a relaxed, nature-infused beachfront vibe or a more cosmopolitan Christmas. This time, our specific recommendation is Hollywood, Florida. (Yes, there’s an east-coast Hollywood. In fact, it predates its famous west-coast cousin.) Nestled between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood has the beauty of south Florida beaches without Miami beach prices, and you can still score some killer Cuban food in the bargain. (You can trust our recommendation: The writer of this blog post was born there!)

Things to Do

• Stroll or bike along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk for ocean views, shops, and casual dining.
• Relax on Hollywood Beach or nearby sandy beaches and enjoy sunbathing or swimming.
• Explore the ArtsPark at Young Circle for local art, live events, and family-friendly activities.
• Take a boat tour or try water sports such as paddleboarding, jet skiing, or fishing.
• Visit nearby Everglades National Park for airboat tours, wildlife viewing, and nature adventures, or Biscayne National Park for world-class snorkeling and SCUBA diving adventures.

RV Parks

Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, lovingly known as T.Y. Park by locals, is home to a well-appointed campground including 61 RV slots and full hookups. There’s also a KOA in town, as well as these nearby Hollywood, FL campgrounds.

Best Time to Stay

The very best time of year to be in Hollywood is between November and April, when the weather is cooler, drier, and more comfortable than the extremely hot and humid summer months.

5. South-Central Texas

Known for its year-round warmth both in climate and in the people you’ll meet, South-Central Texas is a great option for any snowbird. While Austin is a great time, we think that San Antonio has achieved something like hidden gem status. Here’s why.

Things to Do

• Stroll the San Antonio River Walk for dining, shops, and scenic riverside paths.
• Explore The Alamo and other historic missions for a deep dive into Texas history.
• Visit the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park for cultural and outdoor experiences.
• Check out market squares and local neighborhoods for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, crafts, and culture.
• Enjoy outdoor activities at Brackenridge Park or nearby botanical gardens.

RV Parks

Mission City RV Park includes a heated pool and dog park, and Guadalupe River State Park is a great option for those looking for an affordable choice. Here are some more of the best RV parks in and around San Antonio, Texas.

Best Time to Stay

During the fall and spring shoulder season, the weather in San Antonio is just about perfect, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. If you visit in the heart of winter, between December and February, the weather might cool down a bit, but will still be dry, sunny, and way better than most of the rest of the country.

6. The Southeastern California Desert

Palm Springs, you already know and love. But come find out why there are songs about this place! Just an hour and change east of L.A., you’ll find a desert paradise of vast sand dunes, joshua trees… and lots and lots of sunshine. Best of all, you’ll be enjoying one of the few California snowbird destinations that don’t have a California-sized price tag.

Things to Do

• Explore nearby Joshua Tree National Park for hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and desert landscapes. (Don’t miss the Oasis of Mara for a peaceful desert botanical experience and wildlife viewing.)
• Or just drive the scenic Joshua Tree Highway (Route 62) to see iconic desert scenery and unique roadside attractions.
• Visit the 29 Palms Art Gallery and local art scene for desert-inspired culture.
• Attend local cultural events or outdoor markets in the town center for quaint, desert-flavored small-town charm.

RV Parks

Private options like Twentynine Palms RV Resort and Cottages keep you cozy, while more adventurous campers might try dispersed camping in nearby BLM areas.

Best Time to Stay

This part of southern California is best between October and April, when the weather is relatively cool (compared to 100-degree summers), dry, and sunny.

7. Las Vegas, Nevada

This one gets its very own heading, because there’s just no other place in America, or on Earth, like Vegas. And that’s before we start talking about the stunning red-rock landscape that surrounds it. Here’s what to see and do, and where to stay, in and around this one-of-a-kind city.

Things to Do

• Explore the famous Vegas Strip for iconic hotels, casinos, shows, and dining.
• Visit the Fremont Street Experience in downtown Vegas for lights, live music, and street performers.
• Drive out to Red Rock Canyon State Park for hiking, rock climbing, and scenic desert views (not to mention a great place to camp).
• Check out Hoover Dam or Lake Mead for engineering marvels that’ll fascinate the family and water-based activities all year round.

RV Parks

There’s actually an RV park at Circus Circus, so you can stay right in the heart of the action on the strip if you so choose. Otherwise, check out these nearby RV campgrounds.

Best Time to Stay

There are two main snowbird windows during which to consider a Las Vegas excursion:

• Shoulder Season (March–May and September–November): Mild, sunny weather with comfortable temperatures for walking and outdoor activities.
• The Heart of Winter (December–February): Cooler, but generally dry and sunny; good for sightseeing and avoiding extreme heat.

8. Northern New Mexico

Another option for a snowbird who can handle a little chill in exchange for a lot of sun, Northern New Mexico is a hidden gem. From Breaking Bad tourism in Albuquerque to ancient petroglyphs and rock carvings in the lands outside of Santa Fe, there’s so much to see and do in the Land of Enchantment.

Things to Do

• Explore historic Santa Fe Plaza and surrounding adobe architecture, galleries, and shops.
• Visit Canyon Road in Santa Fe for art galleries, studios, and local culture.
• Take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway in Albuquerque for stunning mountain views.
• Head to incredible nearby preserves like Bandolier National Monument, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument or Petroglyph National Monument to wonder at the natural beauty and enjoy history all at once.

RV Parks

Santa Fe Skies RV Park is a favorite, and its location on the south end of town makes it easy to day trip to Albuquerque and other surrounding areas. Here are other northern New Mexico RV park options to choose from.

Best Time to Stay

The snow in Santa Fe can start as early as October and go as late as May, but it never sticks and the sun shines anyway. Down in the Albuqerque valley, the temperature stays higher all winter long.

RV Snowbirding: Frequently Asked Questions

There are plenty of places in this beautiful country of ours to pass a winter without any cold-weather woes, and these are just a few of the options. So RVers: what are your favorite snowbird destinations? Let us know! After all, we have our own winter plans to make. 🙂

This post may contain affiliate links.