It's coming! Have you planned for the 2024 Solar Eclipse yet? There's no better way to experience this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon than camping in an RV where you can have a front-row seat to the show. A solar eclipse is an incredible sight that should not be missed, especially when viewed from one of these top locations: Texas, Missouri, Indiana, or Arkansas. Each state offers unique landscapes and breathtaking views that are perfect for RV camping during the total eclipse. Here are some quick tips to plan for the eclipse so that you can enjoy it to the fullest and be fully prepared.
Where Can I See the 2024 Solar Eclipse?
First, you'll need to choose a good location to experience the full effect of the eclipse. The best place to do this is in the path of totality, where the moon will completely block out the sun, casting a deep shadow across the earth. The path of totality will cross North America, beginning in Mexico, passing through the United States and ending in Canada. The best states to view the eclipse in 2024 are Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina and Maine. While the path of totality will only cross a handful of states, everyone in North America will be able to at least see a partial eclipse.
Map of the April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse (Image credit: GreatAmericanEclipse.com)
How to Pick a Campground for the Solar Eclipse
If you want to be in the path of totality, it's not too early to start planning where you'll park your RV. Keep in mind that demand for camping and RV sites will be high, so be sure to book early. Many campgrounds in the path of totality are already starting to accept reservations and will be hard to come by as it gets closer to the date. Several of the best viewing spots are in national parks or other public lands that require reservations far in advance. You may also want to consider camping at a nearby private campground, as the national park campgrounds may be very crowded.
What to Expect: Crowds, Traffic & Weather
If you're planning on viewing the eclipse, you may be wondering what traffic will be like. For the 2017 solar eclipse, traffic was pretty heavy in the path of totality and there were even traffic jams that lasted for hours. You'll also likely have some congestion on the day before and after the eclipse, so be sure to arrive early and give yourself plenty of time to find a good spot to view the eclipse.
Although the weather will depend on where your viewing spot will be, you'll want to make sure you're prepared for inclement weather. The weather in April should be pretty mild from Texas to Maine, but even if it's not cloudy, being in the shadow of the moon can mean significantly colder temperatures. In case the sky isn't clear, be sure to have a tow car so you can have the flexibility to find a better viewing spot away from the campground.
Assuming the weather cooperates, 2024's total solar eclipse will be an awe-inspiring event not to be missed.
How to Prepare for the Solar Eclipse
First, make sure you have a clear view of the sky. There should be no trees or buildings blocking your view, and you'll want to be as far away from light pollution as possible. Second, give yourself plenty of time to get settled in and to set up any camera equipment or telescope you may have. You don't want to be rushing around at the last minute trying to get everything ready. And finally, be sure to secure viewing glasses ahead of time, because they are more difficult to find as the eclipse grows closer. Never view an eclipse with the naked eye! If you're in a pinch, you can also make a pinhole projector to view the sun's rays during the partial phases of the eclipse.
The Most Stress-Free Way to Experience the Eclipse
Fantasy RV Tours is hosting an 8-Day Great American Eclipse Rally centered on viewing the solar eclipse in Branson, Missouri and you can be confident that you'll enjoy a stress-free experience! With 98.8% totality, Branson is the ideal location to witness this incredible phenomena. Plus, it’s certainly a bonus that the city is full of fun entertainment and beautiful scenery to truly make the most of your visit.
Included in the Rally is an RV site at a deluxe RV resort in Branson – goodbye stress, hello fun! No more searching for the best location and hoping that a good RV park has spots available. The day of the eclipse itself will also be stress-free, as you'll get to attend a viewing party with mimosas at the campground, so you can celebrate with other RVers right outside your rig... no driving, no traffic, no hassle! Viewing glasses will be also provided, so that’s one less thing that you’ll need to plan.
In addition to the viewing party, a jam-packed itinerary full of fun activities will be included. You’ll get to attend 2 award-winning Branson shows, the Branson Belle Captains Dinner Show, a ride on the Branson Scenic Railway, and so much more! Transportation will also be provided for the activities, so all you need to do is show up and have the time of your life! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; click here to book your spot today.
Conclusion
If it’s anything like the eclipse in 2017 – you’ll certainly want to be prepared ahead of time. As the 2024 solar eclipse approaches, there is no better time for RVers to start planning their trip.
There are a few things to keep in mind when planning a trip to view the eclipse. First, the eclipse is best viewed in the path of totality. Second, make sure to book an RV spot well in advance, as they are sure to fill up quickly. Finally, enjoy the experience! Whether it's on your own or at an organized event – such as the Fantasy RV Tours 8-Day Great American Eclipse Rally – the 2024 solar eclipse is sure to be a memorable event that you won't want to miss!