Top 5 Family-Friendly Overlanding Destinations (and the Best Season to Visit Each One)

1. Colorado – Stony Pass into Silverton & the Alpine Loop

Best Season: Summer (Late June–August)

Colorado is packed with off-grid opportunity, but Stony Pass is the one trail that keeps calling us back. It’s high-elevation adventure without the stress — just enough challenge to feel remote, with the reward of Silverton down below. From there, you can explore the legendary Alpine Loop, connecting with Engineer and Cinnamon Pass for jaw-dropping views.

In summer, wildflowers blanket the valleys and snow lingers on the peaks. It’s magical. The kids love playing in the Rio Grande while we enjoy peaceful mornings in a picturesque valley.

2. South Dakota – Badlands, Black Hills & Monuments

Best Season: Late Spring (May–June) or Early Fall (September)

South Dakota offers that rare combo: wild terrain plus iconic landmarks. Camp among the alien landscapes of the Badlands, then cruise into the Black Hills for cooler forests and wildlife. You’re within reach of Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Custer State Park, making this a great mix of fun and education.

Spring and early fall avoid the big crowds and heat, but you still get great weather and open campsites.

3. Utah – Flaming Gorge

Best Season: Summer (July–August)

Looking for that sweet balance of lake life and
overlanding? Flaming Gorge is your place.
We love spending warm days swimming,
paddleboarding, or fishing, then winding down
with cool, high-desert evenings around the fire.
The red rock and forested hills surrounding the
gorge make for incredible backdrops — and
even better photos.

This area shines in mid-to-late summer when
you can take full advantage of the water but still sleep comfortably under the stars.

4. Idaho – Stanley & the Sawtooths

Best Season: Late Summer (August–September)

Stanley, Idaho is pure magic. You’ll find plenty of dispersed camping, clear rivers, and alpine lakes — all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Sawtooth Mountains. It’s quiet, wild, and absolutely photogenic. You can explore Redfish Lake, kayak, hike, or just kick back with mountain views from your camp chair.

Late summer is the sweet spot: fewer bugs, warmer water, and crisp nights. This is where we go to reset as a family.

5. Arkansas – Ouachita National Forest

Best Season: Spring (April–May) or Late Fall (October–November)

If you haven’t considered Arkansas for overlanding, you’re missing out. The Ouachita National Forest is packed with off-grid sites, gentle trails, and a surprising amount of beauty. It’s perfect for families looking for a peaceful escape without going too remote.

Spring brings blooming dogwoods and lush forests. Fall means colorful leaves, campfire weather, and fewer people. Avoid midsummer — it gets humid fast.

Final Thoughts

The key to family-friendly overlanding isn’t just finding the right place — it’s finding the right time. A perfect trail can become a miserable slog in the wrong season, and a quiet lake turns magical when timed right. Whether you're heading into the Rockies or the Ouachitas, planning around the best season for each destination is what transforms a good trip into an unforgettable one.