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Old 02-18-2017, 01:04 PM   #1
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Tips for Planning RV trips

Hey Campers!

We want to plan a 3 week trip out west this year. Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, etc. Is there a time of year that's better, for avoiding crowds? Also, we don't want to be there too late in the year when they can get lots of snow.

Also, how do you plan your trips? What's the best way to plan a trip, as in planning the best routes, sites to see, campgrounds, etc.? Thanks!

~Lisa
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Old 02-18-2017, 05:02 PM   #2
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Most campgrounds are busiest from Mid June to Mid August, when schools are out. Before and after that, weekends from Memorial day to Labor day are busy, mid week is not as crowded. I would suggest reservations, especially on weekends during that time frame. In tourist areas, it's almost a must to have reservations any time.

We travel extensively in the west and also work at campgrounds. I would suggest May or September for fewer crowds. Mid May to mid June is fine except for weekends.

I would do your research as to what to see depending on your interests. Not knowing where your starting from, we try to get the bulk of the miles fairly quick, than drive less each day between stops. We like to stop by 3 or so, to allow time to set up and explore the local area. We also try to stay in a "base camp" for a number of days and do day trips to see the sights. It gets old moving daily, setting up and tearing down. We like full hook ups and tend to stay in better rated parks. State and federal campgrounds fill up quickly and you need to make reservations months in advance.

You didn't mention Idaho but there is much to see there also. Post your interests and we may be able to give you more suggestions as to places to see.

Good Luck.
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Old 02-18-2017, 05:18 PM   #3
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I live in Montana and have seen vacations ruined because of fire season - late July and especially August. The Big Sky turns into big smoke, especially in the western part. June is the best and still not crowded because of the low population of MT, ID, and WY. The RV parks do fill up fast - The KOA in Missoula has had a waiting list since last year.
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Old 02-18-2017, 05:36 PM   #4
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As stated above, reservations are essential. Plan your routing using
Google maps. For RV Parks & campgrounds, I like rvparky.com. Although the Good Sam website is good, RV Parky doesn't favor any park. Most have reviews and good information.

Oregon doesn't get much snow before October. The Oregon coast is beautiful most anytime and has some very nice state parks.

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Old 02-18-2017, 05:39 PM   #5
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We did 2 weeks in the mountains of Colorado last week Sept. 1st, Oct.

Campgrounds were not crowed except weekend and then not bad,

BUT, It was cold, not freezing, and night and warm daytimes. Water was turned off in 2 of the National and one state campground with no dump site available we had to stop at a KOA and private camp to dump. Had to haul all water in and all used out.

No crowds, plenty of sunshine, plenty of room to pick a nice site. Staff were all friendly and relaxed, plenty of time to answer questions, directions and suggestions. Really a change over peak camping periods in the summertime.
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Old 02-18-2017, 11:03 PM   #6
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All what have being said, we are planning a long trip to Vegas in September, but short trip before school get out and after holidays. We both are retired so we can go after everybody else are in school or holidays and in June or July we also plan doing the week.


Those are beautiful States and whatever you decide take your time and enjoy the scenery.
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Old 02-19-2017, 02:24 AM   #7
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Montana and Wyoming offer great opportunities for national parks, mountains, and wildlife, I have also seen snow in Yellowstone at any given time, even in July. But honestly September is usually very mild, the crowds have decreased because the majority of traveling takes place between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Yellowstone is usually open to mid to late October, and the colors begin changing in September.

There are many places to stay, but like others have mentioned you will probably need reservations for most areas, even in September.

Cody has the greatest gun collection in the world at the Buffalo Bill museum.

Wildlife are active, and are always dangerous, but so majestic to see from a safe distance.

Hope this helps
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Old 02-19-2017, 08:13 PM   #8
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Big One.... Vegas in September means AC all the time
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Old 02-20-2017, 02:37 AM   #9
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Yeah, lol, I know I've been there in July and Aug..
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