The East Coast road system is among the oldest in the United States. So, was it built for large RVs? We get to the bottom of this question and unearth any limitations you might have in a big rig.
Keep reading to determine if a road trip up the East Coast in a large RV is worth it. We also look at routes up the coast and if you can ride on an Atlantic Ocean beach.
Let’s go.
Can You Take a Large RV Up the East Coast?
Traveling up the East Coast in a large RV is possible. However, you need to be aware of a few things. We highly recommend using an RV GPS.
Depending on your size, it may be best to stick to highways and not stray too far off the beaten path. As with anywhere, you’ll want to remain cautious of narrow roads and low bridges. Remember to know the height of your RV.
The East Coast also has some tunnels that you might need to drive through. For example, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. The maximum height for the tunnel is 13’6”, and you must turn off your propane entirely. Plan ahead and do your research so you don’t get into a sticky situation.
HOT TIP
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How Is Driving on the East Coast Versus the West Coast?
Driving on the East Coast is less mountainous and windy than on the West Coast. But if you choose to drive the US Route 1 along the East Coast, you’ll have to go through some towns and will need to be content with traffic lights.
Some of the small towns in the east can be relatively compact with narrow streets. Driving a large RV on this route can be stressful.
Are There Any Limitations for a Large RV on the East Coast?
You may be more comfortable staying on the main expressways in a large RV. While US 1 is the most scenic route up the East Coast with easy access to beaches, it can present limitations for a big rig. As we’ve mentioned, you’ll have many stops and travel through towns with narrow roads.
We can’t stress enough the importance of an RV GPS. Or use a trucking app if you’re 38’ or longer. Plan out your route so that you don’t get into trouble.
And the good thing is that if you start on US 1 and realize your RV isn’t well suited for it, simply transition to a close-by modern expressway.
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Where Can I Ride an RV on the East Coast?
There are places along the East Coast to drive on the beach. For example, this is allowed in some areas near the Outer Banks of North Carolina. However, camping overnight on beaches along the Atlantic isn’t as prevalent as in places like the Texas Gulf Coast.
However, you can find many excellent oceanfront campgrounds. A few of the best options are Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA Holiday on the coast of Maine. They have great sites with ocean views and access to the water.
Hither Hills State Park in New York is another great option. You can fall asleep while hearing the surf hit the shore. Or you can add Assateague Island State Park in Maryland to your road trip planner. It has breathtaking views without having to leave the campground.
Is There a Road That Follows the East Coast?
US 1 follows the East Coast. It starts in Key West, Fla., and goes to Fort Kent, Maine, which meets up with the Canadian border.
The entire route is 2,370 miles long. While portions of the highway are inland, it has many stretches where you can take in views of the Atlantic Ocean.
How Long Would It Take to Drive the Entire East Coast?
It takes approximately 33 hours to drive the entire East Coast from Key West to Fort Kent. Of course, traffic and construction will play a role in how long it takes.
But if you were to drive straight through at the appropriate speed limits, it would take about 33 hours to drive the 2,370 miles.
Is Taking a Large RV Up the East Coast Worth It?
Driving up or down the East Coast is a dream road trip for many RVers. If it’s on your bucket list and you have a large RV, we wouldn’t let the size of your rig stop you.
Live your dreams and travel how you want. A large RV can navigate the East Coast as long as you maneuver around some challenging areas.
Set yourself up well for an East Coast RV trip or any route using an RV GPS. Plan your route ahead of time and do your research. And always know the height and length of your RV.
If you take your large RV up the East Coast, we would love to hear about your experience. Drop us a comment below.
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