There’s something magical about national forests in the fall. The air turns crisp, the bugs disappear, and the forests explode with color. From fiery reds and glowing golds to deep amber and russet tones, autumn transforms our public lands into a living postcard.

In this week’s Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott sits down with Ali Rasmussen, co-owner of Spacious Skies Campgrounds, to explore why national forests are at their best in the fall—and how you can plan the ultimate foliage-chasing road trip.

The Spacious Skies 15-Stop Fall Color Trail

If you’ve ever wished you could stretch out the fall season, Spacious Skies has made it possible. Their 15-Stop Fall Color Trail is a curated route that begins in Maine in early September and winds south through New England, the Appalachians, and the Deep South, ending in Savannah, Georgia by late November.

Each stop along the way is a Spacious Skies campground located near some of the most scenic national forests and drives in the country. It’s the perfect way to follow autumn as it rolls down the East Coast—catching peak color in one region after another.

“We designed the Fall Color Trail so campers can literally chase the colors,” Ali explains. “Every few hours of driving takes you to a whole new forest in full display.”

Where to See Peak Fall Colors Now (October–November)

Since the episode aired on October 7, it’s the perfect time to visit mid-Atlantic and southern forests, where fall color is just hitting its stride.

1. Shenandoah National Park & George Washington National Forest, Virginia

October brings brilliant reds and golds along Skyline Drive, one of the most scenic fall routes in America. Nearby, Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views makes a great basecamp for hiking and leaf-peeping.

2. Pisgah & Nantahala National Forests, North Carolina

Further south, Spacious Skies Bear Den and Hidden Creek sit in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, famous for cascading waterfalls and overlooks that glow in orange and gold from mid-October to early November.

3. Cumberland Plateau & Chattahoochee National Forests

By early November, the color wave reaches Tennessee and Georgia. Spacious Skies Belle Ridge offers trails and waterfalls near the Cumberland Plateau, while Savannah Oaks in Georgia provides a peaceful late-season escape surrounded by golden oaks and Spanish moss.

Tips for Visiting National Forests in the Fall

Ali and Lesa shared some practical advice for making the most of your autumn camping trip:

• Pack layers: Weather can change quickly between mountain mornings and valley afternoons.
• Travel midweek: Fewer crowds mean quieter trails and better campsite availability.
• Check state foliage maps: Most states update weekly color reports to help you time your trip.
• Stay flexible: Sometimes the best moments come from taking a detour or exploring an unexpected trail.

“Camping is supposed to be fun and easy,” Ali reminds listeners. “Pick a stop near you, get in the car, and go. Don’t overthink it.”

Year-Round Camping Adventures

Not ready to pack up your rig when the leaves fall? Many Spacious Skies locations stay open through winter. Southern campgrounds like Savannah Oaks and Belle Ridge welcome campers all year long, while French Pond in New Hampshire stays open for those who love a snowy adventure near the ski slopes.

Thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode! For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance at: https://www.progressive.com/GirlCamper/

Looking for more fall travel inspiration: Check out our article on The Best Places In The US To See Fall Colors.

https://youtu.be/IMnxN_XZ_Rw