The U.S. has many, many waterfalls—too many to count! However, there are a few unique waterfalls that deserve a spot on your RV itinerary.
If you think you know just about everything about waterfalls, you may be surprised. Read on to see what I mean.
Eternal Flame Falls, Orchard Park, NY
Tucked inside Chestnut Ridge’s Shale Creek Preserve just outside Orchard Park is New York’s Eternal Flame Falls. This waterfall is a small, easy-to-reach cascade with an unforgettable surprise. Behind the water, there’s a small grotto where natural gas creates a steady, “eternal” flame.
The trail to the falls is short and fairly easy. It stretches about a half mile from the main trailhead, so it’s a great stop for RVers who want a quick walk.
For the best photos and to actually see the flame clearly, visit on a dry day. Time your visit for late afternoon to evening light. That helps the flame stand out in pictures, and the grotto is easier to see.
Weekends can mean bigger crowds. Visiting midweek or during shoulder seasons will give you a quieter experience.
Nearby RV-friendly campgrounds
Sprague Brook Park is a county park campground about 10–20 minutes from Chestnut Ridge. It features drive-in sites, flush toilets, and showers in season. RVers appreciate the affordable sites, and it’s usually less crowded outside of the summer months.
Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA Holiday is a full-service KOA. It’s an easy basecamp if you want hookups, laundry, and a friendly campground scene. There are many attractions to explore around Buffalo. However, it is a longer day trip to Eternal Flame.
Devil’s Kettle Falls, Hovland, MN
Devil’s Kettle mystified visitors for decades. Here’s why: Minnesota’s Brule River splits at the falls. While one part of the falls can be easily observed, the other channel plunges into a pothole (the “kettle”) with no obvious outflow. So, where does the water go?
Modern measurements show the river’s volume downstream stays essentially the same as at points above the falls. This means the “disappearing” water likely rejoins the river nearby. People are drawn to the mysterious sight.
The trail to the Kettle is rated moderate. Plan on a roughly 1.9–2.5-mile round trip that includes steps and uneven trail sections. You’ll need good walking shoes and to take your time.
For the best views, climb the stairs to the viewpoints both above and below the falls. You’ll get different perspectives and better photo angles. The best times to visit are early mornings and weekdays, for a calmer atmosphere. Exercise caution near edges and don’t try to descend into restricted areas as the current is powerful.
Nearby RV-friendly campgrounds
Judge C.R. Magney State Park Campground offers campsites (some accommodating RVs), so you can stay right where the trails begin. The amenities here are rustic, but you’ll be steps away from the waterfall and trails. Check the Minnesota DNR page for current campground details and access rules.
Grand Marais Recreation Area Campground is a larger, full-service harbor campground in Grand Marais. It has many RV hookups, bathhouses, and easy access to services in town. This campground is a comfortable choice if you prefer full hookups and nearby restaurants after a day on the trails.
McWay Falls, Big Sur, CA
Few waterfalls in the United States look quite like McWay Falls in Big Sur, California. McWay Falls is more accurately called a “tidefall.” Instead of plunging into a river or canyon, this 80-foot waterfall drops from coastal cliffs directly onto a secluded beach in McWay Cove. At high tide, the water flows straight into the Pacific Ocean. McWay Falls is one of only 31 “tidefalls” in the world, making it a must-see for RVers.
The falls are located inside Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park along scenic Highway 1. The hike to the main viewpoint is short and easy, making this one of the most accessible iconic waterfalls in the country. The Waterfall Overlook Trail is roughly 0.4 to 0.6 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain and usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to walk. The trail passes under Highway 1 and leads to a cliffside viewpoint overlooking the turquoise cove and sandy beach below. Visitors should note that the beach itself is closed to protect the fragile environment and steep cliffs.
Because Big Sur is one of California’s most scenic coastal drives, the overlook can get crowded during summer afternoons. RV travelers who visit early in the morning or during the off-season often find fewer people and calmer conditions for photography. Even if you’re simply driving Highway 1, this stop is absolutely worth pulling over for.
Nearby RV campgrounds
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground. This beautiful state park is located about 11 miles north of the falls. It sits among towering redwoods along the Big Sur River. RV sites are available along with restrooms, hot showers, picnic tables, fire rings, and a dump station. The park also offers access to several hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Big Sur Campground and Cabins is a popular privately owned campground along the Big Sur River that accommodates RVs and trailers. Amenities include electrical hookups, hot showers, laundry facilities, a camp store, and river access for swimming or relaxing. The property also offers tent sites and rustic cabins.
Turner Falls, Arbuckle Mountains, OK
Hidden in the rolling Arbuckle Mountains of southern Oklahoma, Turner Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state. It’s also one of the most unusual waterfalls in the U.S. from a geological standpoint.
While the waterfall itself is beautiful, what makes Turner Falls especially interesting is how it formed. Most waterfalls gradually wear away the rock beneath them over time through erosion. Turner Falls behaves in a uniquely different way.
As water flows through limestone upstream, it dissolves minerals along the way. When that mineral-rich water tumbles over the edge of the falls, the dissolved limestone comes out of solution. It slowly hardens into a rock called travertine. Instead of gradually destroying the cliff, the waterfall is actually helping build it up layer by layer.
The short walk to the main viewpoint is relatively easy, and visitors can view the waterfall from paved paths near the park’s main area. Several hiking trails extend farther into the Arbuckle Mountains for those who want more adventure.
Summers bring heavy crowds because the pool beneath the falls is a popular swimming spot. However, RVers who travel in spring or fall often enjoy a quieter experience while still enjoying the waterfall’s natural beauty.
Nearby RV campgrounds
Turner Falls Park RV Campground is the closest place to stay inside the park itself. Just think, campers can wake up within walking distance of the waterfall and hiking trails. The campground offers about 20 RV sites with water, electric hookups, and 50-amp service. A dump station is available within the park, and restrooms and showers are provided for campers.
Staying here makes it easy to enjoy the falls early in the morning or later in the evening when day visitors leave. Visitors should note that park admission fees apply in addition to campsite fees. Check-in for RV sites begins in the late afternoon.
The Falls RV Park is an RV park located just a few minutes from Turner Falls. Situated near Interstate 35, this privately operated RV park offers a comfortable base for exploring the Arbuckle Mountains and nearby attractions. The park features roughly 50 full-hookup RV sites with water, sewer, and both 30-amp and 50-amp electric service. The campground is pet-friendly and also offers cabins for travelers who may be meeting friends without RVs. Its location close to the falls, Lake Arbuckle, and local hiking areas makes it a convenient overnight stop for RV travelers moving through southern Oklahoma.
Have you visited any of these unique waterfalls? Do you have a favorite waterfall that you’ve visited on your RV travels? Tell us in the comments below.
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RVT1255
Ruby Falls in Chattanooga TN is inside a cave.
Surprised you didn’t have NIAGARA Falls state park listed. I think it was Four Mile Creek State parked we camped which was a nice twenty minute ride to Niagara Falls State Park with free parking since we stayed at Four Mile Creek State Park NY
Thank you for the list, descriptions, and nearby campgrounds, Gail. Have a great day and safe travels!