40 Inspiring Socially Distanced Trip Ideas Across the U.S.
Discover unique, remote, and safe vacation ideas across the United States—perfect for travel in a world of social distancing.
The way we travel has been transformed by the need for personal space, safety, and tranquility. From private cabins to off-grid adventures, Americans are finding new ways to satisfy their wanderlust. Below, explore over 40 socially distanced trip ideas—each designed to help you reconnect with nature, explore uniquely American landscapes, and escape from crowds without sacrificing wonder.
Why Socially Distanced Trips Matter Now
Spurring from the COVID-19 era and continuing into the foreseeable future, socially distanced travel isn’t just about health—it’s about privacy, finding peace, and a deeper connection with place. Today’s trips focus less on busy landmarks and more on solitude, remote settings, and slow travel. These destinations and modes of travel minimize contact with crowds while maximizing serenity and discovery.
Classic Road Trips: Hit the Open Road
Nothing beats the autonomy and flexibility of a U.S. road trip. With your own car or a rented RV, you control your route, rest stops, and overnight stays. The journey is just as rewarding as the destination:
- Blue Ridge Parkway (VA & NC): This 469-mile scenic drive between Virginia and North Carolina is celebrated for its mountain vistas, wildflowers, and peaceful picnic stops.
- Great River Road (MS River): Trace the Mississippi from Minnesota to Louisiana along this legendary route with endless cultural detours and river views.
- Pacific Coast Highway (CA): Stretching along California’s coast, this drive offers breezy sea cliffs, small towns, and secluded beaches.
- Southwest National Parks Loop: Explore the stunning, sparsely populated expanses of Utah’s “Mighty Five”—Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef.
Tip: Pack meals, maintain your car, and plan ahead for rest stop closures or reduced services (especially in remote regions).
RV Adventures and Vanlife
Recreational vehicles, camper vans, and even small trailers provide the ultimate all-in-one solution: your own bed, kitchen, and toilet on wheels. This makes them ideal for:
- National Park tours without hotels
- Beachside boondocking
- Forest retreats where you self-isolate amid tall pines
Many Americans are rediscovering their country’s backroads with #vanlife or renting RVs for extended getaways, making it possible to visit off-the-beaten-path locations and control all aspects of your environment.
Rent a Remote Cabin or Cozy Vacation Home
Rental homes offer privacy and the sense of a home away from home. Platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and niche local agencies list thousands of hidden cabins, tiny homes, and lakeside cottages, including:
- Mountain cabins in the Rockies, Appalachians, Adirondacks, or Sierras
- Secluded lakefront lodges in the Midwest and New England
- Desert bungalows or adobe homes in the Southwest
- Coastal cottages along the Pacific Northwest, New England, or Great Lakes
Stay longer, avoid big resorts, and enjoy forest trails, waterfront porches, or even private hot tubs—without neighbors just beyond the wall.
National and State Park Escapes
America’s national and state parks remain a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking space and natural beauty.
- Lesser-known parks: To avoid crowds, skip the marquee parks and check out hidden gems like North Cascades (WA), Lassen Volcanic (CA), Great Basin (NV), or Congaree (SC).
- Plan early and go off-season: Fall and winter trips mean fewer visitors and even more solitude in nature.
- Rent cabins or camp away from hub areas: Many parks offer reservable cabins, remote backcountry sites, or primitive campgrounds.
Note: Check park websites for current regulations and facility status before your trip.
Camping and Glamping: Reconnect with the Wild
Camping allows for the ultimate combination of distancing and immersion in nature. Enjoy:
- Pitching your tent at a forested site, beside a mountain stream, or on BLM land
- Backpacking treks into the wilderness (permits may be required in some locations)
- Luxurious glamping—pre-set up safari tents, yurts, and tiny houses with plush bedding and hot showers
Look for private campgrounds with enhanced cleaning, or opt for dispersed campsites on public land where you’re less likely to have neighbors nearby.
Private Beach, Lake, and River Getaways
Waterfront escapes offer calm and recreation, far from the crowds:
- Northern Great Lakes: A remote cabin along Lake Superior or Lake Michigan’s Upper Peninsula can deliver peace, forest, and private water access.
- Maine’s Bold Coast: Seek out a classic shingled coastal rental or hike neglected beaches in downeast Maine.
- Riverside retreats: Many riverside vacation homes are hidden in the Ozarks, Appalachians, or Texas Hill Country.
- Florida Panhandle & Outer Banks, NC: Instead of crowded beaches, small towns like Cape San Blas, FL, or Ocracoke Island, NC, still offer seclusion and sand.
Top off each day with a long walk along the shore, sunset from your porch, or a paddle in your own kayak or canoe.
Staycations & Local Escapes
Who said adventure requires travel? Rediscover your own region with a staycation:
- Splurge on a boutique hotel suite or historic inn with in-room dining
- Book a private garden, pool, or spa experience at a local retreat
- Embark on self-guided walking or biking tours in parks and neighborhoods you’ve never explored
Staycations let you indulge with minimal planning, all while supporting local businesses.
Unique Private Tour Experiences
More travel operators are offering private tours for families or friend groups. Highlights include:
- Custom-guided hiking, fishing, or paddling trips
- Private wine or culinary tours in areas like Napa or the Willamette Valley
- Luxury RV bus holidays for private groups, complete with drivers and guides
- Exclusive tours of historic sites outside of conventional opening hours
Most of these experiences are now available without mingling with strangers or joining large groups.
Remote Resorts and Off-the-Grid Lodges
Wilderness resorts, eco-lodges, and off-the-grid inns appeal to those seeking solitude and serious relaxation.
- Alaskan backcountry lodges accessible only by small plane or boat
- Mountain chalets in Colorado or Montana far from town centers
- Isolated desert retreats in Utah or Arizona
- Forest lodges in upstate New York or the Pacific Northwest
Look for locations that emphasize contactless services and minimal guest numbers, often paired with firepits, nature trails, and dark skies for stargazing.
Exploring Lesser-Known Destinations
To maximize both exploration and safety, travelers are embracing towns and natural areas off the typical tourist map:
- Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains—abundant hiking and alpine lakes
- West Virginia’s New River Gorge—America’s newest national park, with whitewater and hiking
- Central and North Dakota: Badlands National Park and the untouched Great Plains
- New Mexico’s Gila Wilderness—one of the country’s least crowded expert-level hiking regions
Focusing on these hidden gems ensures wide open spaces and striking landscapes.
Traveling Mindfully: Safety Tips for Socially Distanced Travel
- Monitor regional health advisories and regulations; routes and access can change rapidly.
- Pre-book accommodations and activities for remote or popular locations.
- Pack snacks, beverages, and cleaning supplies to minimize store stops.
- Favor contactless check-in and cashless transactions.
- Travel with a small, consistent group—family or close friends only.
- Respect local communities: wear face coverings, maintain distance, and follow all posted guidelines.
FAQs: Socially Distanced Trips in the United States
Q: What is a socially distanced trip?
A: A socially distanced trip is any travel experience designed to limit close contact with people outside your household—favoring private transportation, outdoor activities, remote stays, and less-crowded destinations.
Q: Are these trip ideas suitable for families?
A: Absolutely. Most socially distanced vacations—including cabins, camping, road trips, and private tours—are ideal for families who want to travel together while avoiding large groups and crowded resorts.
Q: Do I need special equipment for remote trips?
A: For camping or backcountry travel, bring your own tent, gear, and cooking supplies. For rental homes or beach trips, pack food, cleaning products, and basic safety gear. RV travel typically means stocking up on sanitation items and planning for fuel and waste disposal.
Q: How can I find lesser-known destinations?
A: Explore online forums, travel blogs, and state tourism websites. Search for “hidden gems,” “lesser-known parks,” or “remote cabins” in your region. Contact local visitor centers for recommendations.
Q: Is it possible to travel safely by air for a socially distanced trip?
A: While possible, many travelers prefer road trips or direct private flights to avoid airport crowds. If flying, choose airlines with robust cleaning protocols, pre-board if possible to avoid queuing, and keep hand sanitizer handy.
Quick Comparison: Types of Socially Distanced Trips
| Trip Type | Best For | Accommodation Style | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Road Trip | Couples, Families, Solos | Hotels, Motels, RVs, Cabins | Sightseeing, Photography, Hiking, Exploring |
| RV Adventure | Families, Groups, Long Stays | Self-contained RV/Camper | National/State Parks, Beach Camping |
| Cabin Rental | Families, Couples | Private Cabin/Lodge | Hiking, Stargazing, Water Sports |
| Camping/Glamping | Outdoors Enthusiasts | Tent, Yurt, Safari Tent, RV | Hiking, Canoeing, Fishing, Relaxing |
| Remote Resort | Luxury, Relaxation Seekers | Eco-lodge, Resort | Spa, Guided Tours, Nature Walks |
Planning Your Perfect Distanced Escape
Whether you crave a rugged adventure, a peaceful lakefront retreat, or a stylish private tour, the United States offers an extraordinary range of socially distanced vacation possibilities. By traveling thoughtfully and embracing privacy, your next escape can offer both peace of mind and transformative discovery—even in challenging times.
