A recent study confirmed what many of us suspect: America’s favorite season is fall. According to a survey from ValuePenguin, some 45 percent of the respondents said autumn is their favorite season, with summer a distant second at 24 percent.
Fall enthusiasts can extend their favorite season by making their way south along the Spacious Skies Fall Color Trail that connects all 15 campgrounds within the Spacious Skies collection.
As the northern campgrounds see thermometers drop and their trees’ leaves fall to the ground, those to the south are experiencing vibrant colors and comfortable temperatures.
“Like kids hoping summer vacation never ends or skiers trying to get in one more run in the spring, following the fall is something most of us long for,” said Ali Rasmussen, co-founder of Spacious Skies Campgrounds. “Plus, there are numerous adventures like hiking, wildlife-watching and exploring historic sites that campers can enjoy near all of the campgrounds.”
Those who are ready to start now should consider Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views in Luray, Va. Trees to see include oaks, chestnut, maples, ash, birch and basswood from now through late-October. Looking for a fun side trip? Head to Patsy Cline’s hometown of Winchester, Va. for a wide selection of food, retail and entertainment options.
The next stop is Spacious Skies Sandy Run in Fayetteville, N.C. where many of the same species are displaying their red, orange and yellow hues. While you’re there, pose in front of a cool mural completed by Carolina artist Christine Crawford. The mural features the Spacious Skies “Take Your Indoors Outdoors” slogan as well as symbols of the destination including pinecones and cardinals, the official state bird of North Carolina.
Then drive west to the mountainous regions of the state and Spacious Skies Hidden Creek in Marion, N.C. where fall foliage season lasts longer than most places. Oaks, maples, birch and poplar slowly turn colors through mid-November. For added fun, head to Ashville to see the Biltmore Estate or into town to sample one of its many craft beers.
Next up is Spacious Skies Belle Ridge in Monterey, Tenn. where more than 500 acres of woods, trails, waterfalls and more await. Trees include oaks, maples, dogwood, poplar and more that display colors through mid-November. Satisfy another sense by making a side trip to Nashville’s famed music scene.
Point your rig south and head to Spacious Skies Peach Haven in Gaffney, S.C. where the area’s oaks, hickories and maples show off their reds and yellows through mid-November. Take a side trip while you’re there to Cowpens National Battlefield, a Revolutionary War site operated by the National Park Service.
The final stop on the Fall Color Trail is Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks where the coppers, yellows and reds generated by the namesake oak trees are putting on a show until late November. The perfect side trip is built around the City of Savannah featuring history and ghost stories.
All of the campgrounds feature RV sites and tent sites as well as other accommodations choices – which vary from location to location – such as cabins, yurts and other glamping options.
Complete details about the Fall Color Trail are available online with campground-by-campground details about when the fall color begins and ends in each location, regional trees and the colors visitors can expect to see.