Fall RV Camping Tips for the Deep South

Fall is such a fun time to get outdoors and enjoy nature!

Fall Camping in the South: Cozy Tips and Must-Have RV Gear for Cooler Weather

In the deep South, fall takes its sweet time arriving. But once Halloween rolls around, we start to feel those crisp evenings sneak in—and I’m here for it! After months of hot, humid weather, fall RV camping in the South is one of my favorite ways to unwind. The key? Being prepared for those cooler nights without overpacking or stressing.

Whether you're planning weekend getaways or longer trips, here are my go-to fall camping tips, plus a few essential items we always keep in our RV once the temps start to dip.


Cozy blankets are our favorites to snuggle up with at the end of the day!

1. Pack Extra Blankets and Cozy Layers

One of the easiest ways to prep for cooler evenings is by keeping extra blankets and throws in your RV. We always have a few tucked away for lounging outside or snuggling in after dark. Southern fall weather can swing between warm days and chilly nights, so layered clothing is a must. Flannel shirts, long-sleeve tees, and a few lightweight jackets give us plenty of flexibility without taking up too much space.

๐Ÿงค Pro tip: Don’t forget gloves, beanies, and other cold-weather accessories—especially if you're headed to higher elevations where temps drop fast!


Having a space heater both saves on propane and keeps the chill out of the air while getting ready for bed.

2. Use a Space Heater Instead of the Furnace

In our experience, running the RV furnace can be a little overkill in the South during fall. Instead, we love using a small space heater in the RV at night. It’s the perfect way to take the chill out of the air as we’re winding down or getting ready for bed. Plus, it’s more energy-efficient and quieter than the furnace. Just be sure to follow safety guidelines and place it on a flat, fire-safe surface.

๐Ÿ”ฅ Looking for the best space heater for RV camping? Choose one with an auto shut-off and tip-over protection for peace of mind.


We love this compact Little Red Fire set up from Camco.  It packs up easily and is compact and great for places where you can't build a regular fire!

3. Stock Up on Fire Starters and a Propane Fire Pit

Cooler temps mean campfires are back on the agenda! We always make sure to pack plenty of fire starters and our trusty log splitter. But since some campgrounds prohibit open fires, a propane fire pit has become one of our favorite alternatives. It gives us that cozy fire glow without the restrictions—and no smoke!

๐Ÿ”ฅ This is one of the best RV camping hacks for fall—instant ambiance, wherever you go.


4. Bring Compact Games for Cozy Nights In

When the sun goes down early, we break out the games. Card games like Uno and Monopoly Deal are easy to store and always a hit. This fall, we’re trying out a few new compact games to mix things up. Whether you're a family of three or camping with friends, games are a great way to unwind indoors.

๐ŸŽฒ Need ideas? Look for space-saving RV-friendly games that are quick to learn and fun to play by lantern light!


Pour over coffee is so easy to have in an RV.   It is my favorite way to make coffee on the road!

5. Stock Up on Hot Beverage Supplies

Fall camping = warm drinks. Always. I keep our RV stocked with coffee, tea, and homemade hot chocolate mix—the one from Smitten Kitchen is a favorite. We use a pour-over coffee maker every morning, and this year we’re adding a Moka Pot to the lineup for a richer brew.

No matter what your drink of choice is, having the right tools makes it feel just like home—only better.


6. Prepare Your RV Water System for Cold Snaps

It doesn't happen often in the deep South, but we’ve definitely had fall camping trips where the temperatures dropped below freezing overnight. If you're camping in a colder area (or the weather decides to surprise you), bring a heated water hose to protect your lines. Or simply fill your fresh water tank so you can disconnect from the spigot and avoid frozen hoses altogether.

๐Ÿ’ง Simple trick: Keeping your cabinet doors open under the sink can help warm air circulate and prevent freezing inside.


7. Give Your RV a Fall Clean and Reset

Before our busy fall season kicks off, we always take time to deep clean our RV inside and out. After a full summer of camping, things get messy fast. A clean and organized RV just sets the tone for a fresh season of adventure—especially if you’ve got multiple trips lined up like we do from late September through the holidays.  Once you have cleaned up, don't forget to add some Fresh Cab or your favorite rodent repellent to keep small creatures from bedding down in your home on wheels!

๐Ÿงฝ Check your pantry, restock essentials, and wipe down everything from top to bottom. You'll thank yourself later!


Where will the fall weather take you this year?

Fall RV Camping in the South Is All About Balance

Warm afternoons, cool nights, changing leaves, and fewer bugs—what’s not to love? The trick to making the most of it is being just prepared enough without overcomplicating things. With a few cozy touches and the right gear, your RV becomes the perfect basecamp for those unforgettable fall adventures.

➜ Shop Cozy Fall Faves!


How do you prep your RV for fall camping? Do you have favorite cold-weather recipes, go-to gear, or tips for staying warm and comfortable? Leave a comment—I’d love to hear how you’re embracing the season on the road!  Also be sure to download and print my fall camping checklist.  

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