6 Iconic Fall Hikes to Catch Peak Foliage
- Campspotter
Fall hiking is as good as it gets: crisp air, ideal temperatures, and trails bursting with color. The best part is that with campgrounds just a short drive away from some of the most popular trails and leaf-peeping regions, you can set up a cozy basecamp so that you’re first in line when the trail lights up in color.
Here are six iconic hikes, trails, and destinations to catch fall foliage, complete with nearby campgrounds to set up camp and keep the adventure rolling.
1. Kancamagus Highway & Lincoln Woods Trail – White Mountains, NH
Best Time for Fall Colors: Late September to mid-October
Nicknamed “the Kanc,” this 34-mile scenic stretch is legendary for fiery reds, oranges, and yellows that sweep across the White Mountains. The Lincoln Woods Trailhead is the largest trailhead on the Kancamagus Highway. Park at Lincoln Woods Trailhead for an easy riverside hike framed by blazing maples, or take on Franconia Ridge for a bucket-list fall trek.
Where to Camp: Ames Brook Campground
Ames Brook Campground
Ames Brook Campground is centrally located in the heart of the Lakes and White Mountain regions. Perfect for all your sightseeing and outdoor activities! Ames Brook is a big-rig friendly campground with full amenities including free wi-fi, bathhouse, laundry facility, and a general store. Close by attractions include; fishing, hiking, the Hobo Railroad, and West Rattlesnake Mountain. Come experien
- Pool
- Fishing
- Arcade
- Playground
- Basketball
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Laundry
2. Skyline Drive – Shenandoah National Park, VA
Best Time for Fall Colors: Early to mid-October
This 105-mile road is basically an autumn pilgrimage. Skyline Drive winds through Shenandoah’s peaks, with countless overlooks and trails just off the road. Try the Stony Man Trail for a quick hike with a huge payoff—360° views of the Shenandoah Valley bathed in fall color.
Where to Camp: Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River
Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River
Luray RV Resort on Shenandoah River in Luray, Virginia, invites you to experience the ultimate blend of outdoor adventure and luxury relaxation. This premier resort, nestled beside the scenic Shenandoah River, boasts a dazzling pool featuring exhilarating waterslides, pickleball courts, an RC car track, and a BMX track for endless entertainment. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and convenientl
- Waterfront
- Waterpark
- Pool
- Fishing
- Dog Park
- Golf Cart Rental
- Playground
- Outdoor Theater
- Sports Field
- Live Music
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Snack Stand
- Garbage
- Special Events
READ NEXT: 8 Natural Wonders to Catch This Fall
3. Hocking Hills State Park – OH
Best Time for Fall Colors: Mid to late October
In the Midwest, Hocking Hills is a fall standout. Trails like Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave wind through sandstone gorges and under waterfalls framed in gold and crimson. It’s family-friendly hiking that feels like stepping into another world.
Where to Camp: Campbell Cove RV Resort and Campground
Campbell Cove RV Resort & Campground
Nestled in tall pines next to the beautiful Lake Logan sits Campbell Cove RV Resort & Campground. Originating in 1975, this family-oriented campground offers a beautiful natural setting with 60 spacious campsites. Choose from seasonal sites, RV sites, tent camping, and rental cabins. The park is within a short distance of all the recreational activities the area has to offer. Explore nearby Hockin
- Beach
- Waterfront
- Fishing
- Arcade
- Bathrooms
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Garbage
- Special Events
4. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop – Aspen, CO
Best Time for Fall Colors: Mid-September to early October
Few scenes rival the golden aspen groves surrounding the Maroon Bells. The easy 1.9-mile Scenic Loop Trail delivers all the drama: jagged peaks mirrored in Maroon Lake and aspen leaves glittering like gold coins in the sun.
Where to Camp: Glenwood Canyon Resort
Glenwood Canyon Resort
Glenwood Canyon Resort in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, offers a stunning escape nestled within the breathtaking beauty of Glenwood Canyon. This premier destination provides a range of accommodations, including riverside RV sites, cozy cabins, and tent camping, all surrounded by towering canyon walls and the soothing Colorado River. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Glenwood Canyon Res
- Waterfront
- Cable TV
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Laundry
READ NEXT: 16 Instagram-Worthy Fall Camping Destinations
5. Columbia River Gorge – OR/WA
Best Time for Fall Colors: Mid-October to early November
The Pacific Northwest shines in fall, especially along the Columbia River Gorge. Trails like Multnomah Falls and Eagle Creek carve past waterfalls framed by bright yellow big-leaf maples and fiery vine maples.
Where to Camp: Gorge Base Camp
Gorge Base Camp
Launch your next adventure from Gorge Base Camp RV Park. Located in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, this park is the perfect location for hiking, biking, skiing, kiteboarding, whitewater rafting, wineries, and breweries! As the largest national scenic area in the United States, the Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful destination for hiking, cycling, sight-seeing, fishing, watersports, golf,
- Cable TV
- Playground
- Bathrooms
- Showers
- Internet Access
- Garbage
- Laundry
6. Glacier National Park – MT
Best Time for Color: Late September to early October
Fall in Glacier means fewer crowds and golden larches lighting up the alpine valleys. The Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake Trail make for a perfect combo—easy to moderate hikes with eye-popping scenery at every turn, and the latter delivers you right to a stunning glacial lake.
Where to Camp: Glacier Campground
Glacier Campground
Located just one mile from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. This campground covers 40 wooded acres and is surrounded by Flathead National Forest. Every site is nestled within the timber providing a wonderful feeling of privacy. The village of West Glacier is just a mile away with many activities including golf, mini golf, shopping, rafting, horseback rides and helicopter tours. There ar
- Hiking
- Restaurant
- Playground
- Internet Access
- General Store
- Dump Station
- Laundry
Book a Basecamp for Your Fall Hikes
Whether you’re chasing fiery maples in New England, golden aspens in the Rockies, or larch-filled valleys out West, there’s a campground nearby on Campspot.com ready to be your basecamp. Pack your boots, bring your camera, and let the trails lead the way.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock users jdross75, Craig Zerbe, Vadim, Dan, jdross75, Nicholas Steven, Galyna Andrushko