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Romantic Camping: Plan the Ultimate Getaway
How-To's & Resources, Trip Ideas & Guides, Winter Road Trips
Word on the street is that most folks value experiences over things. And while we may be a bit biased, we’d take a romantic camping trip over expensive jewelry any day. It’s the perfect way for outdoorsy couples to unplug, see some beautiful places on the road, and get out of their comfort zone and try something new together. So skip the typical gifts and give them what they really want: an adventurous getaway in an Escape campervan. Here’s our guide to planning the ultimate romantic campervan experience.
Photo by Lunalee Photography
Step 1: Plan Your Itinerary
First, make a loose plan for your trip. Is there a hike on his bucket list he’s been dying to do? Is there a beautiful drive to a scenic spot you’d love to show her? Do you want to head toward a private campsite in the woods, or a secluded spot by the beach? The opportunities are endless! Just be sure to leave a little room for spontaneity in case you come across an amazing view–that way you have time to pull over and enjoy it from the comfort of the campervan.
Photo by Lunalee Photography
Step 3: Hit the Road
It’s time to put on the final touches. Of course, a romantic road trip playlist is essential. It can also help to pre-download the areas you’ll be visiting on Google Maps and “star” some of the spots you want to stop at–that way, you won’t have to worry about getting lost if you happen to lose service. Get the phone chargers, USB/aux cords, and road trip snacks, and you’re all set to pick up your campervan and get on your way.
Step 4: Make a Romantic Camping Dinner
The beauty of a campervan is that you have a fully-equipped kitchen in the back. Ours, in particular, have a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator, along with all the cooking utensils you need to make an incredible meal–without having to fight for a reservation at a crowded restaurant. Sip on some wine as you watch a spectacular sunset from the comfort of your “home.”
Step 5: Go Stargazing
Once you’ve made a delicious meal, it’s time for a campfire and stargazing. We provide camp chairs, a lighter, and matches in our vans, so all you need to do is get that firewood you packed in Step 2 and cuddle up! If you want to focus more on the stargazing part, visit darksky.org to find some of the best spots.
Step 6: Enjoy Breakfast in Bed
Another great perk of van life: breakfast is never too far from the bed. Fire up the stove and brew some coffee. You can even throw in a sunrise before getting ready for the day’s adventures. Read about some of our favorite campervan cooking breakfast recipes here.
Step 7: Explore
There’s even more fun in store, as now you can spend the whole day exploring the area! Here are some of our staff picks for romantic campervan getaway activities.
Escape Staff Picks
- Francis: “If I were in the Bay Area, I’d take the campervan out to Point Reyes for the day. Then, I’d park at Twin Peaks at night with a bottle of wine–it has an incredible view of the city.”
- Hayden: “I’d put cupid wings on the van and some roses throughout, as well as chocolate on the pillow. I would also propose properly to my wife!”
- Katie: “From Denver, I’d take the van west of Boulder toward Nederland or Rocky Mountain National Park. We’d wake up early and go for a morning ski. Taos, NM is another favorite getaway – it has such a unique artsy vibe. Plus the delicious food and killer chute skiing make for a guaranteed good time”
- Tashia: “I’ve always wanted to watch the sunrise at Crater Lake National Park. If I were in Oregon, I’d camp there and ski during the day, followed by a trip to nearby Umpqua Hot Springs and Toketee Falls.”
- Kerry: “I’d rent the campervan named Love and fit it out with a heart-shaped bed (just kidding!). The Alpine Slide at Winter Park would be fun, followed by Strawberry Hot Springs and the casino. Another fun trip would be to go on a Colorado hot springs tour. Start at Mt. Princeton and Valley View (you can get a masseuse delivered right to your campervan!), then visit Pagosa Springs, and the Vapor Caves at Glenwood Springs.”
- Sam: “I’d do hot springs and hot air balloon ride!”
- Jenna: “I’d go back to Dead Horse State Park. They’re a Dark Sky area and they have incredible sunsets and stargazing. A drive-in movie theater would also be fun!”
- Kate: “There’s an amazing hot springs about 4 hours north of San Francisco that I would most definitely go to.”
There’s nothing like a road trip to bring you together–just ask Christlyn and Erik, who eloped on their campervan trip to Big Sur and Yosemite! Check out our current specials and book your romantic camping getaway today.