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Top 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations for Your Labor Day Road Trip

Escape the crowds this Labor Day and go where the wild campervans roam with these under-the-radar destinations.


By Ringo

August 28th, 2023

labor day weekend

Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! 🚐✨ Is Labor Day sneaking up on you faster than you can say "Where did summer go?" Are you scrambling to make plans that don’t involve barbecues and awkward family gatherings? Fear not! We’ve got the ultimate travel cheat sheet for a Labor Day weekend that screams adventure, not yard work.

1. The Lost Coast, California

Digital art inspired by Lost Coast, California
Digital art inspired by the Lost Coast, California

The What Now?

You’ve heard of the California coast, but have you heard of the Lost Coast? No, it’s not the setting for a new pirate movie. Nestled between rocky cliffs and an untamed ocean, this secluded area is the perfect getaway to remind you of what California used to be before everyone and their Instagram followers showed up.

What to Do

Hiking, beachcombing, and soul-searching. Or just sit by the beach with a good book and wonder why it took you so long to find this place.

2. Terlingua, Texas

Terlingua
Terlingua, TX

Ghost Town or Bust!

Yes, a real-life ghost town! If you’re tired of crowds but not quite ready for complete isolation, Terlingua is your sweet spot. This former mercury-mining town offers the right blend of history and mystery.

What to Do

Explore the ruins, take a scenic drive, or get adventurous with some off-road biking. At night, the lack of light pollution makes stargazing an otherworldly experience.

3. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Digital art inspired by Apostle Islands, WI
Digital art inspired by Apostle Islands, WI

Say Cheese!

Come for the cheese, stay for the islands! Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands offer sandy beaches, sea caves, and hikes through dense forests. Plus, it's so underrated, you'll probably have an island all to yourself.

What to Do

Kayak through the sea caves, go hiking, or just lie on the beach and enjoy the serenity. Don’t forget to snap some pics; your friends won’t believe Wisconsin can look like this.

4. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

Digital art inspired by Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Digital art inspired by Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado

It’s Not a Beach, It’s a Desert!

Surprise! Colorado has dunes, and they’re spectacular. The tallest in North America, actually. So why not swap the beach ball for a sandboard this Labor Day?

What to Do

Sandboarding, dune sledding, or simply marveling at the surreal landscape. If you’re more of a night owl, the park is also a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it a haven for stargazers.

5. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Digital art inspired by Lassen Volcanic National Park
Digital art inspired by Lassen Volcanic National Park

Erupt with Joy!

Looking for something explosive? Lassen Volcanic National Park is where you can get up close and personal with all four types of volcanoes—shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome. How’s that for a fiery weekend?

What to Do

Hiking trails that take you through smoky fumaroles, boiling springs, and vibrant mineral deposits. Or just sit and enjoy the geothermal wonders from the comfort of your van with a cup of hot cocoa.


So, there you have it! Five jaw-dropping destinations that are perfect for an escape from the Labor Day ordinary. These spots offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and just the right amount of isolation to make you forget the daily grind. Ready to hit the road? Vanly's here to help you find the perfect spot to park your home-on-wheels. With our extensive list of private property listings, you can make your Labor Day not just a long weekend, but a mini-vacation tailored just for you.

Remember, life’s too short for run-of-the-mill holidays. Why follow the crowd when you can pave your own path to adventure? Let Vanly be your compass to an unforgettable Labor Day escape.

Happy travels, Vanlifers! 🌟




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