5 Day New England Coast Itinerary for Your Next Road Trip
Pack your bags, gas up the RV, and get ready to be dazzled by the charm of New England's stunning coastline.
Pack your bags, gas up the RV, and get ready to be dazzled by the charm of New England's stunning coastline. This five-day New England coast itinerary whisks you through six captivating states, each boasting unique coastal experiences, iconic landmarks, and most importantly, the best campgrounds nearby. Buckle up and prepare to fall in love with the region's maritime history, breathtaking scenery, and quaint towns bursting with personality.
Day 1: Maine - Lobster Rolls and Lighthouse Charm
Start your journey in Bar Harbor, the gateway to the stunning Acadia National Park. Hike Cadillac Mountain for panoramic vistas, explore tide pools teeming with life and witness the iconic beauty of Bar Harbor Lighthouse. As the sun sets, discover the culinary delights of Bar Harbor's waterfront dining options before settling into your cozy campground. Head to Portland, Maine, a thriving coastal city brimming with craft breweries, trendy shops, and a working waterfront that sustains the local seafood industry. Indulge in a classic Maine lobster roll on the scenic waterfront, then hop on a ferry to Peaks Island for pristine beaches, charming shops, and breathtaking views of the Casco Bay islands.
Continue your journey to Ogunquit, a seaside haven renowned for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant art scene. Relax on the pristine sands of Perkins Cove, explore tide pools teeming with marine life, and indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaraunts such as local favorite M.C. Perkins Cove.
Where to Stay: Nestled on the stunning shores of Sebago Lake, Point Sebago Resort is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of rustic elegance and outdoor adventures. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Maine’s wilderness, breathe in the scent of pine trees, and create unforgettable memories in this picturesque destination. At Point Sebago Resort, choose from accommodations including RV sites, cabins, cottages, glamping tents, and vacation home rentals. Beyond the scenic surroundings, the resort ensures a perfect balance of relaxation and recreation with entertainment programs, group activities, a nationally recognized 18-hole championship golf course, and all the amenities for a rejuvenating stay.
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Day 2: New Hampshire - Quaint Towns and Coastal Delights
Head south to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, a maritime gem boasting cobblestone streets, charming shops, and a colorful arts scene. Explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, an open-air living history museum depicting 300 years of Portsmouth's life, then stroll along the scenic waterfront and soak in the harbor views. Stop at the breathtaking Flume Gorge for a natural wonder walk at the base of Mount Liberty.
Nestled on the Connecticut River, Hanover is a charming college town home to Dartmouth College. Explore the Ivy League campus, immerse yourself in the town's rich history, and enjoy the vibrant cultural scene. Take a leisurely walk through the Hopkins Center for the Arts, catch a performance at the Lebanon Opera House, or browse the unique shops along Main Street.
Where to Stay: For spacious RV sites, cozy cabins with stunning lake views, and easy access to outdoor adventures, Purity Spring Resort - Danforth Bay emerges as a top contender for your New Hampshire camping trip. Explore thrilling watersports and nearby hiking trails amidst the backdrop of the White Mountains. Danforth Bay offers a diverse range of accommodations, including over spacious RV campsites, creekside spots for tents and pop-ups, and camping cabins, providing options for every camper to experience the best of New Hampshire's picturesque beauty.
Day 3: Vermont - Mountains, Maple, and Covered Bridges
Cross the border into Vermont, where rolling green mountains and charming villages await. Begin your day with a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, a photographer's paradise ablaze with beautiful foliage then continue to Manchester, known for its outlet shopping and historic charm.
Savor a quintessential Vermont experience with a visit to a local sugarhouse like the Tucker Maple Sugarhouse and sample maple syrup straight from the tap, witness the sugaring process, and stock up on sweet souvenirs. As dusk paints the sky, nestle yourself amidst the Vermont mountains and enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local ingredients. Vermont's local cuisine is a tapestry of flavors rooted in its agricultural heritage, featuring artisanal cheeses, pure maple syrup, and farm-to-table dishes with grass-fed meats and heirloom vegetables.
Where to Stay: Located just a short 30-minute drive from Manchester, Lake Lauderdale Campground offers RV sites, charming cabins, and tent camping options. Set on over 50 acres with stunning lake and mountain views, this campsite features amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, and a clubhouse to hang out and make new friends. Explore nearby cultural attractions in Cambridge and enjoy a relaxing or adventurous stay at Lake Lauderale, complete with hiking trails, kayaking, and a warm welcome to make your visit memorable.
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Day 4: Massachusetts - History, Seafood, and Harvard Charm
Step back in time with a visit to Salem, Massachusetts, the infamous site of the witch trials. Explore the Salem Witch Museum, wander through the historic downtown, and soak up the Salem's unique atmosphere. Indulge in a decadent clam chowder at a waterfront restaurant before crossing the harbor to Boston, the cradle of American freedom.
Walk the Freedom Trail, a self-guided path showcasing revolutionary landmarks like the Boston Common and Faneuil Hall. Immerse yourself in Harvard University's historic campus, then indulge in a classic Boston experience by cheering on the Red Sox at Fenway Park.
Where to Stay: Escape to Indianhead Resort for a traditional camping experience. If you're looking for a quiet and relaxing place to stay while visiting Boston or Salem, this campground is the perfect spot. Nestled in the forest, the resort offers a variety of campsites and RV sites, as well as stunning views of the surrounding area.
Day 5: Connecticut and Rhode Island - Coastal Gems and Maritime Charm
Travel south to Mystic, Connecticut, a charming seaside town known for its historic seaport and the impressive Mystic Seaport Museum. Step back in time by exploring meticulously restored ships, witnessing shipbuilding demonstrations, and learning about the town's rich maritime history.
Cross over to Rhode Island, the smallest state with a big personality. Explore the historic streets and charming waterfront of Newport, home to opulent mansions like the Rosecliff Mansion and stunning coastal views. Take a walk along the Cliff Walk, offering breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, and savor delicious fresh seafood at a harborside restaurant. As your journey reaches its end, reflect on the unforgettable experiences and stunning scenery you've encountered along the New England coast.
Where to Stay: Discover the quintessential camping experience at Indianhead Resort, just a stone's throw from the shores of Cape Cod Bay. Nestled within a serene forest, this campground offers a perfect blend of grassy, sunny safari sites and spacious wooded areas. Enjoy a variety of activities, from basketball and biking to stargazing in this dark sky designated location for an unforgettable camping getaway.
Remember, this is just a suggestion! Customize your itinerary based on your interests, time constraints, and preferred pace. Be sure to factor in seasonal events and activities, and don't forget to leave room for spontaneous detours and local discoveries. Check out our easy-to-use, interactive campground booking tool to discover more New England campgrounds for your next adventure.
