Summer calls for sunshine, open roads, and outdoor fun. There’s no better way to experience all that nature has to offer than by traveling in an RV. With a Cruise America RV rental, your adventure starts the moment you pull out of the parking lot—and the possibilities are endless. Consider creating a summer bucket list to make the most of the season.

RV traveling allows you to explore mountains, lakes, forests, and deserts on your own schedule. Whether you’re looking for water adventures, hiking excursions, family fun, or thrill-seeking experiences, this comprehensive guide has you covered.

This post explores 30 outdoor summer activities perfect for RV travelers. We’ve grouped them into themes—so you can mix and match them according to your travel style. You’ll also find destination recommendations, preparation tips, and safety advice to help you make the most of your journey.

Water Adventures: Dive Into Nature’s Playground

1. Kayaking

A peaceful glide across a lake or the challenge of paddling down a river—kayaking is one of the many fun outdoor activities available during summer. Most national and state parks offer kayak rentals; some RV parks even have them on-site. This activity is great for all skill levels and lets you explore hard-to-reach coves and wildlife habitats.

Top Destinations: Lake Tahoe (CA/NV), Boundary Waters (MN), Glacier National Park (MT)

2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Paddleboarding has exploded in popularity for good reason. It’s both relaxing and a serious core workout. Early mornings and calm lake waters offer the best conditions.

RV-Friendly Tip: Pack an inflatable paddleboard—it’s easy to store and set up.

3. Canoeing

Canoeing is a great way to take in peaceful water scenes, whether it’s a wide river, serene lake, or marshy bayou. Perfect for couples or families with older kids.

Best Spots: Adirondacks (NY), Everglades National Park (FL)

4. Swimming in Natural Springs

Cool off in the clearest water you’ll find—swimming in natural springs is a fun way to cool off, offering year-round chill and magical surroundings.

Where to Go: Ichetucknee Springs (FL), Barton Springs Pool (TX), Juniper Springs (FL)

5. Snorkeling in Freshwater Lakes

You don’t need the ocean for snorkeling. Some freshwater lakes offer amazing visibility and aquatic life. Bring a waterproof camera to capture what you find below the surface.

Try: Devil’s Den (FL), Lake Travis (TX), Clear Lake (OR)

Hiking, Biking, and Camping Experiences

6. Hike to a Scenic Overlook

The best way to experience nature is on foot. From beginner paths to rugged ascents, hiking is a must for RV travelers.

Favorites: Angels Landing (Zion NP), Grinnell Glacier Trail (Glacier NP), Cadillac Mountain (Acadia NP)

7. Mountain Biking

If you’re looking for adrenaline, grab your helmet and ride bikes through thrilling mountain trails. Many parks have routes suitable for beginners and pros alike.

Top Locations: Moab (UT), Bentonville (AR), Crested Butte (CO)

8. Camping Under the Stars

Even if your RV is comfy, spend a night outside with a sleeping bag or tent. There’s nothing like hearing the sounds of nature as you drift off.

Pro Tip: Stay in a dark sky-certified park like Big Bend (TX) for unparalleled stargazing.

9. Wildlife Watching

RV parks often border national parks and wilderness areas. Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot animals like elk, deer, foxes, and even bears.

Popular Parks: Yellowstone (WY/MT/ID), Everglades (FL), Denali (AK)

10. Geocaching

Turn any hike into a modern version of a nature scavenger hunt with geocaching. Using your phone’s GPS, locate hidden caches and leave your mark for others to find.

Why It’s Great: It adds a fun, tech-savvy twist to traditional trail walks, and kids love it.

Family-Friendly Outdoor Games and Activities

11. Cornhole Tournaments

Bring a cornhole set and get the whole campground involved in a friendly tournament. Easy to learn and fun for all ages.

Bonus: Decorate your boards with family road trip themes.

12. Scavenger Hunts

Create a checklist of natural objects—pinecones, feathers, animal tracks—and let the younger kids explore.

Tip: Offer prizes like extra s’mores or picking the next destination!

13. Campfire Storytelling Nights

Gather around the fire and take turns telling stories. Make it spooky or silly—it’s a great bonding activity after a day outdoors.

Don’t Forget: Marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers, and a campfire permit where required.

14. Nature Bingo

Print bingo cards with pictures of local plants and animals. Nature bingo is one of the fun things to do while teaching kids about nature, keeping them entertained and engaged.

15. Outdoor Movie Night 

Use a projector and a white sheet or screen to enjoy movies under the stars. It’s like having your own drive-in theater—RV style!

What You’ll Need: Portable projector, external speaker, snacks, and cozy blankets or chairs.

Adrenaline-Pumping Outdoor Excursions

16. Zip-Lining

Zoom through the treetops on a zipline adventure as part of an exhilarating obstacle course. Many parks and adventure centers near RV parks offer zipline tours.

Where to Go: Smoky Mountains (TN), Flagstaff (AZ), Durango (CO)

17. Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting brings a rush of excitement—and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rafter, there’s a route for you.

Best Rivers: Arkansas River (CO), Gauley River (WV), Snake River (ID)

18. Off-Roading with ATVs/UTVs

Explore rugged backroads with an ATV or UTV. Some destinations rent them out by the hour and offer guided trails.

Recommended Spots: Moab (UT), Black Hills (SD), Ocala National Forest (FL)

19. Rock Climbing

Take your adventure to new heights—literally. Many RV-accessible areas offer climbing classes for beginners or routes for advanced climbers.

Hotspots: Joshua Tree (CA), Red River Gorge (KY), Smith Rock (OR)

20. Sandboarding or Dune Sledding

Slide down massive sand dunes with a board or sled. It’s an underrated summer activity that’s fun for all ages.

Top Pick: Great Sand Dunes National Park (CO)

Relaxation and Outdoor Wellness Activities

21. Morning Yoga in Nature

Stretch, breathe, and take in your surroundings. Doing yoga in a forest clearing, by a river, or at the beach offers peace of mind and body.

Suggestion: Download a yoga app to follow along or create your own routine.

22. Sunset Picnics

Few things are more magical than eating a meal with a view. Find a quiet overlook, lay out a blanket, and watch the sky change colors. Consider visiting a farmer's market to gather fresh and seasonal produce for your picnic.

Packing Tip: Bring a cooler for fresh snacks and drinks, and don’t forget the bug spray!

23. Fishing

Fishing is both relaxing and rewarding. Whether you’re fly fishing in a mountain stream or casting from a lakeshore, it’s a classic summer pastime.

Great Fishing Destinations: Lake Fork (TX), Henry’s Fork (ID), Lake Champlain (VT/NY)

24. Reading in a Hammock

Not every outdoor activity needs to be active. Set up a hammock under the trees and get lost in a good book.

25. Journaling or Sketching

Take a break from screens and document your trip the old-fashioned way. Record your thoughts, sketch the scenery, or make a travel scrapbook.

Unique and Unexpected RV Travel Activities

26. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Soar above the landscape in a colorful balloon. Many locations offer morning or sunset rides, and some festivals even welcome RV parking.

Where to Try It: Albuquerque (NM), Napa Valley (CA), Sedona (AZ)

27. Attend Outdoor Music Festivals

Summer music festivals often have designated RV camping. They are a great way to enjoy an outdoor concert, bringing your boho spirit, lawn chairs, and glow sticks.

Festivals to Check Out: Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Summer Camp Music Festival (IL), Pickathon (OR)

28. Explore Underground Caves

Venture into nature’s underground world with a guided cave tour. Great for cooling off and learning geology.

Top Caves: Carlsbad Caverns (NM), Mammoth Cave (KY), Lava River Cave (OR)

29. Stargazing Programs

Spending time outdoors can be wonderfully enriching, and some parks offer astronomy nights with telescopes and expert guides. Learn about constellations, planets, and how to spot the Milky Way.

Best Parks: Big Bend (TX), Great Basin (NV), Capitol Reef (UT)

30. Scenic Byway Drives

Sometimes the journey is the destination. Roll down the windows and cruise a scenic byway. Stop for photos, roadside diners, or quirky attractions.

Must-Drives: Blue Ridge Parkway (VA/NC), Pacific Coast Highway (CA), Million Dollar Highway (CO)

Summer RV Packing Checklist

Packing smart makes your outdoor activities more enjoyable. Don’t forget these essentials:

Clothing & Gear

• Lightweight layers

• Swimwear

• Sun hats & sunglasses

• Hiking boots or sandals

• Reusable water bottles

• Daypack or backpack

Outdoor Equipment

• Folding chairs & tables

• Cooler or portable fridge

• Lanterns and headlamps

• First-aid kit

• Maps or offline GPS

• Hammock and bug net
  
  

Specialty Items

• Kayak, SUP, or inflatable raft

• Fishing rod & tackle

• Binoculars

• Yoga mat

• Projector (for movie nights)

Safety Tips for Outdoor Summer Activities

While summer fun is the goal, staying safe ensures the memories are happy ones.

• Hydrate Often: Dehydration can sneak up on hot days.

• Use Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing are a must.

• Follow Trail Signs: Stay on marked paths and obey safety instructions.

• Store Food Securely: Prevent wildlife interactions by sealing food properly.

• Check Weather Alerts: Watch for flash floods, wildfires, or extreme heat.

• Use Life Jackets: Always wear one during water activities.

• Know Your Limits: Don’t push beyond your skill level, especially in remote areas.

Have an Extraordinary Summer with Cruise America

Outdoor summer activities and RV travel are a perfect match. Whether you’re cooling off in a natural spring, climbing a mountain, or sharing laughs by a campfire, these experiences will stay with you for years to come. Creating lasting memories with your own children through these activities makes them even more special.

With Cruise America, your RV becomes a launchpad for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Pick your destinations, load up on gear, and hit the road knowing the whole family is equipped for fun, freedom, and fresh air. Let the fun-making begin!

Start planning today. Reserve an RV rental from Cruise America. Your next outdoor adventure awaits!