Chasing Water: The Best RV Trips for Lakes, Rivers, and Beaches

There’s something about water that makes every camping trip feel a little more like summer. Maybe it’s the calm of a lakeside sunrise, the excitement of paddling a winding river, or the simple joy of spending the day with your toes in the sand. Wherever you find it, water has a way of slowing us down, encouraging us to stay a little longer, and helping us reconnect with the outdoors.

One of the greatest benefits of RV travel is the freedom to follow the water wherever it leads. With your Ember in tow, you can wake up beside a quiet mountain lake one weekend, spend the next exploring a scenic river valley, and finish the season parked just steps from the beach. The journey becomes just as memorable as the destination.

Lake Life at Its Best

For many RVers, lakes are the ultimate summer destination. They offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making them ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Top Lake Camping Destinations

Lake Michigan (Michigan)
 With sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and countless campgrounds along the shoreline, Lake Michigan offers some of the best RV camping in the Midwest.

Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)
 Known for its crystal-clear water and mountain scenery, Lake Tahoe is perfect for kayaking, hiking, paddleboarding, and scenic drives.

Flathead Lake (Montana)
 One of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the United States, Flathead Lake offers excellent boating, fishing, and stunning mountain views.

Table Rock Lake (Missouri)
 A favorite among RVers, Table Rock Lake combines warm water, excellent fishing, and easy access to the Ozarks.

Following the River

Rivers offer a completely different camping experience. Instead of still water and quiet coves, you’ll find flowing currents, scenic drives, and endless opportunities to explore.

Top River Camping Destinations

Upper Delaware Scenic River (New York/Pennsylvania)
 Perfect for tubing, kayaking, fishing, and riverside camping surrounded by beautiful forests.

New River Gorge (West Virginia)
 One of the country’s premier outdoor recreation destinations, offering whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and incredible scenery.

Buffalo National River (Arkansas)
 America’s first national river remains one of the most scenic places to float, fish, and camp.

Snake River (Wyoming/Idaho)
 Known for dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and excellent fishing opportunities.

Beach Camping Adventures

Few camping experiences compare to waking up near the ocean. The salty air, endless horizon, and rhythmic sound of waves create an environment that feels worlds away from everyday life.

Top Beach Camping Destinations

Assateague Island National Seashore (Maryland/Virginia)
 Famous for its wild horses, oceanfront camping, and miles of undeveloped shoreline.

Gulf Islands National Seashore (Florida/Mississippi)
 White sand beaches, warm waters, and plenty of nearby campgrounds make this a favorite summer destination.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore (North Carolina)
 A paradise for beach lovers, anglers, and anyone looking for a laid-back coastal camping experience.

Padre Island National Seashore (Texas)
 The longest undeveloped barrier island in the world offers incredible beach camping opportunities and endless coastal views.

Bonus: Water Destinations Perfect for Ember Owners

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a multi-week road trip, these destinations offer the perfect backdrop for everything Ember RVs are built for—bringing your bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, fishing gear, and sense of adventure along for the ride. With spacious storage, comfortable living spaces, and the capability to camp both in developed campgrounds and off the beaten path, your Ember makes it easy to chase the water wherever it calls.