Take an RV to see the total solar eclipse
Total solar eclipse.
RV Monte

Monday, August 21, 2017, is a day that’s probably already on the calendar of every amateur astronomer. It’s the day the Moon will completely eclipse the Sun, its shadow crossing the continental U.S. for the first time since 1979. The path of 2017 total solar eclipse arcs across 14 U.S. states, and hotel spaces are already filling up. Taking an RV can provide a good alternative.

If you’re planning on RVing your way to totality, be aware — you’ll need to do some planning well in advance! Eclipse chasers from all over the world will be arriving on the eclipse path in the days and weeks before and after the main event. So book plane tickets and rent RVs and campsites well in advance. Follow this RV guide to the 2017 total solar eclipse to plan for the big event.

Find other resources for the eclipse, such as weather forecasts, events, and local circumstances: Guide to the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse.

Best Campgrounds for Viewing the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse

I’ve chosen the best campgrounds within the states in the path of the moon’s complete shadow based on either the number of cloud-free days annually or proximity to highways so that you can move easily if clouds threaten your view of the Sun.

For local eclipse times at any of these locations, see eclipse2017.org.

2017 total solar eclipse path
This RV guide follows the path of the 2017 total solar eclipse (visible from within the dark gray line), which will sweep completely across the United States. Click image for bigger view.

Oregon

The Oregon coast tends to be cloudy, so if you’re hoping to be among the first to experience the eclipse, Central Oregon (just east of the Cascade Mountains) is your best bet for a cloud-free experience. The town of Madras will offer a unique experience for eclipse watchers: the Oregon SolarFest at Jefferson County Fairgrounds. They’re booking RV campsites both at the fairgrounds and at “Solar City,” a farm field exactly on the centerline of the path of totality near Madras.

Another public event planned for 2017 Eclipse Day that includes camping will be held at the Oregon State Fairgrounds in Salem: the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry will host the 2017 Eclipse Viewing Party. Tickets are on sale now and camping information will be available soon.

Idaho / Wyoming

Brigham Young University – Idaho in Rexburg, Idaho is welcoming eclipse watchers to reserve free viewing spots on campus for the event. If you arrive early enough to grab a parking spot, you can park your RV on campus as well.

Another good option for local RV camping during the eclipse is at Beaver Dick Park, run by the county. Those spots are first-come, first-served as well, and there’s a five-day limit on camping there.

While the path of totality barely brushes the southern border of Montana, you’re better off camping in Idaho or Wyoming. In Wyoming, the town of Casper lies in the optimal viewing path, with amateur astronomers from all around the globe flocking there next August for the yearly Astronomy League Conference. RV parks abound around Casper. A couple of good bets for superb viewing are Lodge Pole Campground on the city’s south side and Fort Casper Campground along the North Platte River.

You’ll also see the eclipse clearly from the southern end of Grand Teton National Park, especially in the Jackson, Wyoming area. There are too many campgrounds to name in the Jackson/Teton Village area, but here are a few to contact:

  • Hoback, Granite Creek or Kozy Campground – Bridger Teton National Forest (no reservations, so you’ll have to arrive early)
  • Jackson Hole/Snake River KOA
  • Gros Ventre Campground, Jackson

Nebraska / Kansas / Missouri / Illinois

The Sandhills region of west central Nebraska will receive some of the longest viewing times of the entire solar eclipse. Towns around North Platte, including Stapleton and Tryon, are gearing up to welcome thousands of eclipse viewers next August. You’ll even discover private landowners offering RV space for the event!

Easily accessible on I-80, this vast, isolated area of grass-covered sand dunes promises unfettered views. Start your planning by contacting these RV campgrounds for reservations: Lake Maloney State Recreation Area or Hidden Valley Campground in Arnold, Nebraska. You can find plenty more eclipse related info at these two websites: Eclipse on the Range and 2017 Nebraska Eclipse.

Like Montana, Iowa has just a whisper of the state in the path of totality. Travel to adjoining Missouri or Kansas for views of a lifetime. In Kansas, the towns of Atchison, Fairview and Sabetha near the Missouri border will enjoy more than two minutes of totality. Campgrounds in the area include Lewis & Clark Village State Park, just east across the Missouri state line from Atchison, or Ron’s RV Park on Bean Lake at Rushton, Missouri

Following the eclipse path east into Illinois, you’ll find yourself surrounded by throngs of fellow enthusiasts near Carbondale, near the point of the eclipse’s greatest duration. Set up camp at Lake Murphysboro State Park, a few minutes west of Carbondale, or Little Grassy Lake Campground, also within 15 miles of the city. By the way, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale will be hosting an eclipse viewing at their football stadium in addition to two days of related events.

Kentucky and Tennessee

According to KYSolarEclipse.com, Hopkinsville is the best place in the state to view the 2017 solar eclipse, but several other good viewing spots lie nearby. Paducah, Bowling Green, and Russellville can also deliver a memorable view, and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers RV campers the chance to experience the eclipse in an enormous wilderness area straight west of Hopkinsville. Four developed campgrounds there will take reservations up to six months in advance, so add an alert to your February calendar.

If you prefer a setting closer to civilization for your eclipse experience, take your RV toward Nashville, also in the path of totality. RV camping at J. Percy Priest Lake’s Seven Points Campground will situate you between Nashville and Lebanon, Tennessee, where the center point of the eclipse will cross. The town of Clarksville, Tennessee will also be under the moon’s shadow, with Clarksville RV Park in a natural setting outside the city limits.

Georgia, North and South Carolina

With less than 15 miles of northeast Georgia crossed by the path of totality, you’ll have to pick your campsite and viewing area carefully. Focus on the Blue Ridge Mountain towns of Clayton, Dillard, and Sky Valley. Here are some campgrounds to consider:

  • River Vista Mountain Village in Dillard, Georgia
  • Cross Creek Campground near Clayton, Georgia
  • Tate Branch Campground in the Chattahoochee National Forest

You should also know that North Carolina’s eclipse path is brief but spectacular, crossing the far west side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town of Franklin, North Carolina is slated to have more than two minutes of total eclipse time, so Mi Mountain Campground north of town on US-23 is a good bet for August 21st.

If you choose to camp in South Carolina next August, you’ll be chasing the last views of the total solar eclipse as it leaves the U.S. From Abbeville to Woodford, there’s the chance to experience the full eclipse for two minutes or more, with the city of Columbia, South Carolina, right in the heart of the action. Camp at Lake Murray’s Siesta Cove near Columbia and enjoy the lake as you wait for the eclipse. If you’re coming from North Carolina, you’ll also find a pleasant Corps of Engineers campground at Lake Hartwell near Greenville and on the path of totality.

There you have it, a quick list of camping ideas to get you started as you plan your RV camping trip to view the 2017 total solar eclipse. Remember, some of these areas will fill up quickly, so don’t delay in booking your RV rental, reserving your campsite(s), and planning for mobility in case you’ve got to chase good weather. It’s going to be an adventure you’ll never forget.

Comments


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jungledoc

September 23, 2016 at 12:46 am

Why just the US? Are people who live in other countries not interested in the eclipse?

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Monica Young

September 23, 2016 at 10:20 am

The path of total eclipse - an event worth traveling to if you have the means - crosses the contintental U.S. this time around. North and Central America will see partial eclipse phases, however.

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Karl

September 23, 2016 at 7:31 pm

No doubt many people outside the US are interested in the eclipse. But the staff of S&T has no influence over its path... you'd need to take this up with Mr. Newton. 😉

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Withcarloutwest

September 25, 2016 at 2:39 pm

Hotels along the total eclipse path are, unfortunately, charging Super Bowl prices, so I appreciate this brief look at camping alternatives. If I manage to go, I will be thinking about camping on federal open lands.

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Alan Silverstein

October 7, 2016 at 11:11 pm

Let's hope no federal or state agencies decide that "for public safety" many of the gravel or primitive roads must be CLOSED, as happened to the summit of Mauna Kea in 1991. Near Glendo, Wyoming, for example, there is a LOT of 2WD-accessible public land. I personally intend to AVOID Glendo State Park although I love the place, I expect it to be mobbed, and find somewhere within "a few miles" that hopefully is off the beaten track but easy to access (and camp).

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Ajswickerman

August 14, 2017 at 7:35 pm

My husband and I have decided to rent out some tenting spots and possibly you could get an RV or two in here if anybody is interested they will not be Super Bowl prices and we are supposed to get 2 minutes in 21 seconds of eclipse time. We also have a crazy view of the mountains on one side of the property and a beautiful sunrise. We're going to open up the basement so that there's a bathroom and a sink in a shower

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birdnest

August 19, 2017 at 12:44 am

There is limited parking in Franklin, NC for the eclipse, just want to share additional parking area with you...

Eclipse Parking Available at Cecil's Auto, 544 West Main Street, next to the American Legion and across from macon Rental...5 minute Walk to downtown, the Parking will be Secured!!! Parking overnight too...Call 828-524-5999 or stop by!!! HAPPY ECLIPSE!!!

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GeorgiaSolarEclipseGuy

November 26, 2016 at 7:08 pm

For those of you thinking about coming to northeast Georgia to experience the eclipse, I have a contract to rent the Rabun Arena just south of Clayton GA on Hwy. 23. (www.RabunArena.com). This awesome facility sits on high ground; has an excellent view of the mountain range to the west and has 40 full RV & camper hookup sites. Search "Rabun Arena" in Google Maps and check out the photos on their info page. I'm just starting planning on the best way to use the Arena and have no details yet, but I won't over price the camper spots. (Except the Coach and bus parking under the two arenas and the national news networks I've invited ;-). BTW! Plenty of space in the back of the lower parking level to land your helicopter.

This venue will experience 2 minutes and 33 seconds of umbral magic!

Y'all come see us!

Dave Rosselle
[email protected]

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bajira

March 14, 2017 at 4:27 pm

There are still camping spots still available at http://www.totalityeclipse2017.com in Madras Oregon for RV and TENT spots.

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Krickman

August 13, 2017 at 11:02 pm

RV parking is available in Burns Oregon, paved parking lot. Text me at 541-589-1225

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Total Eclipse Camping

April 4, 2017 at 1:55 pm

http://www.totaleclipsecamping.com NOW AVAILABLE & on the centerline path of totality just outside of Mitchell Oregon! To visit all of the National Parks in the area, swim & fish in the John Day river, visit orchards, hike & bike should be an astronomical event (total solar eclipse and Perseid meteor showers too)...camping adventure that is once in a lifetime opportunity.

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Lorran Headrick

April 10, 2017 at 12:30 am

I live in Tellico Plains Tennessee. The projected path of totality is around 3/4 of a mile of our property. We were thinking about opening up camp sights for tent, camper, and small RV's. It would be on the bank of the Tellico River. The town of Tellico Plains is planning some kind of festivities as well. Tellico is a popular destination for camping, hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking , and many other activities. It is also home to the Cherohala Skyway, which is connected to the 129 dragon, a popular motorcycle route. If there is enough interest in this as a camp sight, we will open it. Please comment here if anyone is interested. Or at [email protected]

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scottbb

May 11, 2017 at 7:53 pm

I'm looking for RV parking, that sounds interesting. I'm looking to set up photography and timelapse video (sunrise to sunset, horizon-to-horizon). How is your property situated? What's the orientation of the river, would you describe your property as being on a north bank, looking south over the river? What's the sky clearance (covered, or lots of nearby trees, or relatively clear)? Can you see the entire solar path sunrise to sunset? Sorry for all the questions, I don't mean to sound overeager. But your offer (if it still is open) sounds interesting!

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Ajswickerman

August 14, 2017 at 7:41 pm

I'm over here next to Madisonville Tennessee which is between Tellico Plains and Greenback we are supposed to have 2 minutes and 21 seconds of total eclipse there are many festivals in area. In Tallassee there's a hot air balloon festival on the 19th through the 22nd. We have an awesome Skyline View of the Smokies a beautiful sunrise I'm going to open up the basement for use of the bathroom motorcycles are welcome. It won't be a whole lot of room for Campers or RVs maybe just a couple of spots but tons of room for primitive camping. We are just off the dragon tail in the
Skyway. Just a couple miles from the Tellico River and Marina. Alcohol is allowed on premises there is a dumpster for your trash and as I've stated there is a bathroom in the basement of the home for campers. Please contact me if interested

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Rose

April 24, 2017 at 9:18 pm

We are offering our 30 acre hay field for campers wishing to experience the 2017 solar eclipse in Oregon. We are located very near the epicenter of the eclipse in Lacomb, Oregon located in the beautiful Willamette Valley. This will be dry camping only. Porta potties and water spigot will be available. Gated property, very private and safe. Family, kid and pet friendly (pets must be on a leash as this is a farm with livestock) Come enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and watch the alpacas romp in the field. RV, Camper, Trailer, Tents or just sleep out under the stars.
Excellent unobstructed eclipse viewing area, easy RV access, restroom facilities (no showers), open field to run and play and pets allowed.
We want to make this a fun event or all, so there will be some rules that will need to apply. The most important rue is NO outdoor fires, it will be too dry out in the hay field at that time of year.
This is a fund raiser to raise funds for our beloved yellow lab, Baler, that broke his knee and needs surgery.

Check in on August 20th and check out August 21st.
Text Kathy at 541-401-2465
https://www.facebook.com/Eclipse-Camp-Sites-1973446559549776/?pnref=story

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foxcreekcampout.com

April 30, 2017 at 1:52 pm

Looking for a spot to camp for the Eclipse? Head over to Teton Valley, just 30 minutes from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. We are having a fun-filled memorable campout with everything you can think of! Including live bands on Saturday and Sunday!

Head over to our site for more info.

http://foxcreekcampout.com

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Eclipse on the Enoree

May 17, 2017 at 8:39 am

Eclipse on the Enoree
Kayaking - Bonfires - Barbecue - Beer
Come be a part of our Solar Eclipse Party.
Located just off of either I-26 or 385 in Woodruff, South Carolina this working farm offers a twenty acre landing strip for the solar system.
You will have a wide open field for your cameras and telescopes or just bring your lawn chairs and solar eclipse glasses.
Park your RV or camper and enjoy a peaceful country weekend.
You can simply lounge around under the shade of the grand oak, walk the trails in the woods down to the Enoree River, and visit the animals on the farm.
Bring your kayaks and you can slip into the river for a cruise down to one of three pick up points.
Eclipse Eve we will have a huge summer bonfire and barbecue where we can all get to know each other, eat some great food, listen to some tunes and heck, if you want to, dance under the stars.
You can come early and you can stay late! We will open parking on Saturday morning, August 19th at 8 am and close parking by Tuesday morning, August 22nd by 10 am, 'cause we got to get back to work!
There are no sewer receptacles available so arrive empty.
Limited supply of kayak rentals upon request.
For more info or questions you can contact us at:

864-982-3400
Facebook - Eclipse on the Enoree

[email protected]

http://fb.me/EclpseontheEnoree

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RcceclipseNE2017

May 17, 2017 at 9:32 pm

We are new to this, so bear with us. We have 20 beautiful acres situated on the Platte River in central Nebraska. We are in the heart of prime eclipse viewing country, which includes a total of 2 minutes and 18 seconds of total eclipse. We have options for dry camping (either RV or tent), on the river, a few spaces in the woods, and an open pasture. Views of the sky are unobstructed and you are surrounded by beauty, including the river, a pond, and lots of wildlife. We can accommodate approximately 20-30 campers. If there is enough interest, we would provide porta-potties. No showers and no hookups and no dumping. You take out what you bring in. We are very close to I-80 (only about 2 miles south), so access is very convenient. We are located near the town of Gibbon, NE. Let us know if you are interested!

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Smiller26

August 4, 2017 at 10:02 am

Hello,

My husband and I are looking for tent camping to watch the eclipse. Do you have any sites available?
Thank you,
Stef Miller
[email protected]

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Ajswickerman

August 14, 2017 at 7:42 pm

I have tons of space available I'm in Tennessee next to Madisonville we are expected to get around 2 minutes and 21 seconds of total eclipse time

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Paulyester7

May 24, 2017 at 4:00 pm

Come to Wyoming for the Great American Eclipse of 2017! At the Divide Ranch on Hwy 26 between Wheatland and Gurnsey Wyoming, Dry Campers can enjoy 02:02 of totality for the eclipse, plus unobstructed night-time stargazing! Check us out at http://www.wyeclipse.com and on FaceBook at http://www.facebook.com/wyeclipse

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ScioSolarEclipseCelebration

June 23, 2017 at 2:57 am

We would love to invite anyone reading this to come out to the Scio Solar Eclipse Celebration. We will have live music, hiking, camping and more. We still have plenty of spots available. We also have carefree camping options. Just show up and your tent and bedding are waiting for you. Visit our site for more info.
Scio, Oregon
http://www.SolarEclipseCelebration.com

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nycole_01

July 19, 2017 at 6:39 pm

RV & Camping Spots
10345 Hwy 95 Payette Idaho Dates available: Aug 16-23 2017 Accommodations Include: Porta Potties – Self contained BBQ's allowed Pets (on leash) – Easy Highway Access - Minutes from Super Market and down town Pre-Reservation Pricing Per Night Book Before 8/10/17 3 night minimum 20x50 $250.00 15x30 $175.00 15x15 $100.00 Non-Reservation Pricing Per Night 3 night minimum 20x50 $350.00 15x30 $250.00 15x15 $150.00 To Make a reservation or have questions CALL (208) 739-6238 PayPal Reservations can be made at paypal.me/nycole01 All Reservations are a $100.00 NON-Refundable Deposit

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Smiller26

August 4, 2017 at 10:04 am

Hello,
My husband and I are looking for tent camping during the eclipse. Do you have anything available?
Thank you,
Stef Miller
[email protected]

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birdnest

August 19, 2017 at 12:45 am

RV Parking in Franklin, NC:
There is limited parking in Franklin, NC for the eclipse, just want to share additional parking area with you...

Eclipse Parking Available at Cecil's Auto, 544 West Main Street, next to the American Legion and across from macon Rental...5 minute Walk to downtown, the Parking will be Secured!!! Parking overnight too...Call 828-524-5999 or stop by!!! HAPPY ECLIPSE!!!

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Solarwatch

August 19, 2017 at 6:53 am

Few spots left for RV / Camper in St Joseph, MO. Over 2 1/2 minutes of totality. Private location surrounded by wildlife. Owner lives on site for security. Email [email protected] or text 816-273-3685

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