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Autumn is here and that means Halloween is right around the corner! Are you in the mood for something haunted and spooky? Do you crave mystery, thrills, and perhaps a ghostly encounter, or two? If you’re a full or part-time RVer who enjoys the eerie side of life, pack up your motorhome, grab a flashlight, and head to these haunted and spine-chilling RV destinations across the U.S.
Perhaps one of the most famous haunted locations in America, the Stanley Hotel inspired Stephen King’s novel, The Shining. Located in Estes Park, near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, this century-old hotel is said to be home to several spirits. While the hotel itself is a draw, its proximity to nearby RV parks like the Manor RV Park makes it a prime spot for RVers wanting to experience paranormal activity. Visitors report hearing piano music in empty rooms, phantom footsteps, and the unsettling sensation of being watched.
>>Don’t Miss: Take a night tour of the Stanley Hotel for a deep dive into the spooky history and King’s own eerie experience here.
I visited Gettysburg last year and drove my RV through the park, exploring many of the sites on the Gettysburg Battlefield. Did you know that Gettysburg is not only a site of historical significance but also one of the most haunted locations in the U.S.? As the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, it’s no surprise that ghost stories abound. Visitors have reported hearing echoes of the battle, including gunshots, cannon fire, and cries for help.
The drive through is plenty wide enough and clear of overhead obstacles for just about any RV, and there are several RV parks in the area, including Gettysburg/Battlefield KOA, where you can set up camp before heading out to explore the haunted grounds.
>>Don’t Miss: The Soldiers’ National Cemetery at night or one of the many ghost tours offered around town for a chance to experience paranormal activity.
Salem, known for its infamous witch trials in 1692, is a town steeped in dark history and mysterious lore. While there are plenty of spooky walking tours and haunted spots throughout the town, you can park your RV at Winter Island Park and be right near the action. The campground is located on the water, offering a serene place to return after an evening of ghostly explorations. Wander through the historic streets, visit the Witch House, or stop by the Old Burying Point Cemetery to feel the weight of Salem’s haunted past. Be warned, I drove through Salem in October and it was a madhouse! So prepare for large crowds and busy, congested streets.
>>Don’t Miss: The Salem Witch Museum and Gallows Hill, where accused witches were once hanged.
One of my all-time favorite adventures in my RV life was the time I visited Lake Shawnee Abandoned – and some say haunted – Amusement Park. I was fortunate to spend several days on the property and walk around, exploring it on my own, as well as taking part in the Halloween festivities. Check out my 5-part series complete with eerie sights, interviews with the owners and the local historian who had her own spooky experience at the park, and much, much more!
The park was built on a Native American burial ground which many believe is why tragedy struck multiple times during its operation. Ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts flock here, reporting sightings of a little girl on a swing, unexplained cold spots, and strange noises. There is plenty of room in the parking lot for RVs, so go ahead and take in the spooky atmosphere of this abandoned and eerie park.
>>Don’t Miss: Private ghost tours are available by appointment if you’re brave enough to walk through the eerie remnants of the park at night. In October the park is open to the public for Dark Carnival on Friday and Saturday nights. Visit if you dare! If you can’t, be sure to check out my videos.
For a true-crime twist to your RV adventure, consider visiting the Villisca Axe Murder House, the site of one of America’s most infamous unsolved murders. In 1912, eight people were brutally murdered in this small house, and the crime has never been solved. Visitors report feeling cold drafts, hearing footsteps, and even seeing apparitions. If you’re staying in a nearby RV park, you can take part in daytime tours—or, if you’re truly daring, book an overnight stay in the house itself.
>>Don’t Miss: Bring your own ghost-hunting equipment to capture potential paranormal activity during an overnight investigation.
St. Augustine is known as the oldest city in the U.S., and with its long history comes plenty of ghost stories. The St. Augustine Lighthouse, perched on the coast, is said to be one of the most haunted places in the city. Ghosts of former lighthouse keepers, as well as a group of children who tragically died there, have been spotted by visitors. Stay at nearby RV parks like Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort, and make sure to join a nighttime ghost tour to see the lighthouse’s spectral inhabitants for yourself.
>>Don’t Miss: The “Dark of the Moon” paranormal tour, where you’ll explore the lighthouse grounds after dark with ghost-hunting equipment.
For RV travelers who love ghost ships, head west to Long Beach to explore the legendary Queen Mary. This massive ship, now a floating hotel, has a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in the world. From phantom footsteps to eerie apparitions of long-deceased passengers, the Queen Mary has been the focus of many paranormal investigations. Park your RV nearby, then spend the day exploring this spooky ship before heading back to your cozy campsite.
>>Don’t Miss: Participate in the “Haunted Encounters” tour for an in-depth look at the ship’s eerie past.
No list of haunted destinations would be complete without the Myrtles Plantation. Known as one of the most haunted homes in the U.S., this antebellum plantation is said to be haunted by several spirits, including a former slave named Chloe. Guests at the plantation often report strange sightings, disembodied voices, and even the sensation of being touched by unseen hands. Stay at one of the nearby RV parks, and consider booking a haunted tour of the plantation.
>>Don’t Miss: The “Mystery Tour,” which takes place after dark and highlights the home’s most notorious ghost stories.
For those who love both RV travel and the thrill of the paranormal, these haunted destinations offer the perfect blend of adventure and mystery. Whether you’re hoping to spot a ghost or just want to explore some eerie history, these spooky RV destinations are sure to send shivers down your spine. If you want to more spooky adventures, check out my playlist of all the abandoned places and ghost towns I’ve visited, and slept in!
Would you dare to spend a night at one of these haunted hotspots? Drop a comment below to share your story. Let the road guide you and the spirits surprise you along the way! Happy (haunted) travels!
DISCLAIMER: Carolyn’s RV Life and Carolyn Higgins share her experiences, thoughts, opinions and ideas in this blog post and on this website for entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, instruction or guidance. Viewers/Readers should consult with professionals before pursing any actions or behaviors exhibited in this video. Carolyn’s RV Life or Carolyn Higgins cannot be held liable in the event of any accident or injury that may occur as a result of application of procedures and information provided in this video.
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