My Favorite Drives After 3 Years Living on the Road
There’s nothing like rolling down the windows, cranking up your road trip playlist, and cruising through jaw-dropping landscapes—especially when your vehicle is your home.
After living in my car full-time for the past three years, I’ve driven all over the country. But the Southeast U.S. holds a special place in my heart. From misty mountains to coastal stretches, the region is packed with scenic routes that are absolutely perfect for van life.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-timer like me, here are my top 10 favorite scenic drives in the Southeast—tried, tested, and loved.
🏞 1. Blue Ridge Parkway (VA to NC)
Distance: 469 miles
Why I love it: Rolling mountains, epic overlooks, peaceful pull-offs
The Blue Ridge Parkway is hands-down one of the most beautiful drives in the entire country. It winds through the Appalachian Highlands, with dozens of scenic stops, hiking trails, and cozy forest nooks perfect for overnight camping. I’ve stayed at primitive campgrounds right off the parkway and watched fog roll through the mountains in the morning—pure magic.
🌊 2. Overseas Highway (Florida Keys, FL)
Distance: 113 miles
Why I love it: Ocean views on both sides, beach vibes, epic sunsets
This drive connects mainland Florida to Key West and feels like you’re floating between worlds. Long bridges, turquoise water, palm trees—it’s a dreamy route, especially in the winter. There aren’t a ton of free places to sleep in the Keys, but I’ve found stealthy overnight options in the upper Keys and a few state parks where I could rest with a view.
🌄 3. Cherohala Skyway (TN to NC)
Distance: 43 miles
Why I love it: High elevation views, less traffic than the Parkway, peaceful
This lesser-known scenic drive climbs over 5,000 feet through the Cherokee and Nantahala forests. It’s quiet, smooth, and stunning—perfect for escaping the crowds. I like parking at trailheads to cook a meal or stretch my legs with a hike. In the fall, the colors are unreal.
🐊 4. Tamiami Trail (US-41, FL)
Distance: 275 miles (entire stretch), with the scenic part around 100 miles from Naples to Miami
Why I love it: Everglades scenery, gator sightings, wild nature
This one’s a little offbeat but so worth it. The Tamiami Trail cuts through the heart of the Everglades. You’ll spot airboats, herons, and alligators as you cruise by swampy, eerie landscapes. I love pulling off for wildlife stops or kayaking in Big Cypress. There are a few free campgrounds in the region, especially during the dry season.
🏕 5. Natchez Trace Parkway (TN to MS)
Distance: 444 miles
Why I love it: Historic vibes, peaceful roads, free camping
This is one of my absolute favorite vanlife-friendly roads. It’s calm, non-commercialized, and lined with free campgrounds and picnic spots. It stretches from Nashville down to Natchez, Mississippi, passing through forests, fields, and historical landmarks. I’ve stayed at multiple pull-offs along this route with zero issues—very vanlife-friendly.
⛰ 6. Tail of the Dragon (US-129, NC/TN)
Distance: 11 miles
Why I love it: Adrenaline curves, dense forest, epic drive
Okay—this one’s short but intense. The Tail of the Dragon is famous for its 318 curves in just 11 miles. It’s popular with bikers, but I’ve driven it in my car-home for the thrill of it. Not the best for big vans or rigs, but smaller setups (like mine) can handle it. There’s beautiful forest land all around to camp in once your adrenaline calms down.
🌅 7. Scenic Highway 30A (FL Panhandle)
Distance: 24 miles
Why I love it: Coastal towns, white sand beaches, cute vibes
This gem of a road hugs the Gulf Coast and takes you past stunning beach towns like Seaside and Grayton Beach. Think pastel cottages, farmer’s markets, and Gulf views that sparkle. There aren’t a ton of overnight options right on 30A, but there are a few nearby state forests and stealth spots I’ve used with no problem.
🌲 8. Great Smoky Mountains Loop (NC/TN)
Distance: ~140 miles (depends on route)
Why I love it: Waterfalls, wildlife, camping options galore
I’ve looped through the Smokies more times than I can count. Between Newfound Gap Road, the Cades Cove loop, and Clingmans Dome, the views are nonstop. This area is loaded with campgrounds and pull-offs, and you’ll often see other vanlifers posted up nearby. Bear spray recommended—just sayin’.
🐎 9. Horse Country Drive (KY’s Bluegrass Region)
Distance: Varies depending on your route
Why I love it: Rolling green hills, horse farms, bourbon trails
Kentucky’s backroads don’t get enough love. If you take the scenic routes through the Lexington area, you’ll pass stone fences, thoroughbred farms, and picturesque barns. Bonus: There are distilleries nearby if you want to do the bourbon trail. I usually find free parking or affordable state parks not far off the main roads.
🛶 10. Savannah to Charleston Coastal Route (US-17/SC-174)
Distance: ~120 miles
Why I love it: Southern charm, marshland views, small-town beauty
This route is all about the Lowcountry charm. Spanish moss, historic towns, salty air—it’s a slower pace and incredibly scenic. I’ve overnighted in spots outside Charleston, parked near beaches, and caught sunrises over the marshes. Savannah and Charleston both have nearby state parks that are vanlife-friendly too.
Final Thoughts
The Southeast has a lot more to offer than I ever expected—especially when you’re taking your time and chasing beauty over speed. Every one of these roads gave me more than just pretty views—they gave me peace, freedom, and unforgettable memories in my little home on wheels.
If you’re heading through the region, I highly recommend adding a few of these routes to your journey. Keep your gas tank full, your snacks stocked, and your windows rolled down. You never know what hidden magic you’ll find.
Need help mapping out a route, finding free campsites, or want my full list of favorite boondocking spots in the Southeast? Drop a comment or reach out—happy to share more road-tested gems!
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