When city life starts to feel overwhelming, a weekend van trip can be the perfect reset. Van life travel offers freedom, flexibility, and the chance to reconnect with nature—all without taking time off work or buying expensive flights. With a little planning, anyone can escape the city limits and enjoy a peaceful, scenic getaway that fits into a single weekend.
What Makes a Great Weekend Van Trip
The best van camping adventures start with smart planning. Look for destinations within a few hours’ drive, where the road itself feels like part of the journey. Scenic routes, accessible campgrounds, and options for outdoor activities make for an ideal trip.
A good weekend destination should offer a mix of rest, exploration, and the amenities that make travel in a van comfortable, like rest areas, pull-offs, and campsites with basic facilities.
Top Weekend Van Trips by City
Some of the best van camping spots sit just a few hours from major cities, making weekend escapes easy and rewarding. These quick getaways let you enjoy van life travel without long drives or complicated planning.
From New York City
- Catskills and Adirondacks: Both mountain ranges offer incredible views, hiking trails, and quiet camping spots perfect for van traveling.
- Hudson Valley: Known for its riverside drives and small towns, this area is ideal for art lovers and foodies who want a laid-back weekend in nature.
From Los Angeles
- Joshua Tree National Park: A dream destination for those who love starry skies and desert landscapes.
- Big Bear Lake: Mountain air, pine forests, and lakeside camping make Big Bear one of the best van camping getaways in Southern California.
From Chicago
- Starved Rock State Park: A short drive from the city with waterfalls, sandstone canyons, and well-marked trails.
- Door County, Wisconsin: Offers charming coastal views, local shops, and peaceful overnight parking spots for a refreshing weekend away.
From Dallas
- Texas Hill Country: Known for scenic drives, river tubing, and small towns full of character.
- Broken Bow, Oklahoma: Great for kayaking and campfire nights surrounded by tall pines and calm water views.
From Seattle
- Olympic Peninsula: Mix rainforests, beaches, and mountain trails in one unforgettable route.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Drive through alpine meadows and park your van near some of the best hiking spots in the Pacific Northwest.
From Denver
- Rocky Mountain National Park: High-altitude beauty just a few hours from the city.
- Great Sand Dunes National Park: A surreal escape where you can hike dunes by day and stargaze at night.
Tips for Planning Your Van Trip
Preparation makes van traveling stress-free. Start by mapping your route and identifying overnight stops. Apps like Campendium or iOverlander can help you find camping sites and rest areas. Pack plenty of water, food, and emergency gear, and always keep an eye on the weather before heading out.
Offline navigation tools are a must in remote areas, and it’s wise to share your route with a friend before you go. Above all, respect nature by following Leave No Trace principles—keep campsites clean, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out all trash.
Upgrade Your Van Before the Next Trip
When you spend hours on the road, your seat becomes more than just a place to sit—it’s your base for adventure. The right van seating can make the difference between a trip that feels effortless and one that leaves you sore before you’ve reached your destination.
At Suburban Seating & Safety, we specialize in aftermarket van seats built for comfort, durability, and support. Each seat is designed to enhance your driving experience, reduce fatigue, and keep you focused on the road ahead.
Whether you’re setting out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country journey, your comfort should never take a back seat. Explore our wide range of ergonomic van seats today and give your next van trip the upgrade it deserves.
