First time long-distance overland South Carolina to New Mexico

[Kennedy Crew]

Hi all! Very excited to find this group! We are planning our first long distance overland South Carolina to New Mexico and back at the end of June 2025. I know there is a lot of places in between, but if anyone has done this trip and would like to share their route, or just points/places that we really shouldn't miss, we would really appreciate your input! We have a '23 Tacoma 4x4, rooftop tent etc.

 

[FishinCrzy]

Hey Brigid, not a huge help on route as I have been traveling more northerly to Colorado and points north. Having a RTT you will be wanting a quiet place to camp. One I found that may be close to your route is just off I-22 in northern Mississippi in Holly Springs NF. Chewalla Lake Rec Area.

Chewalla Lake Recreation Area, National Forests in Mississippi - Recreation.gov

Explore Chewalla Lake Recreation Area in National Forests in Mississippi, Mississippi with Recreation.gov. Chewalla Lake Recreation Area is located in the Holly Springs Ranger District in northern Mississippi. Visitors enjoy swimming and relaxing on the sandy beach o

www.recreation.gov

I was on my way to Arkansas at the time and it was a very nice stopover. Reservations at the time, '21 as I remember, were not really necessary but couldn't hurt. Think I was in Site 31 as it was secluded and near water spigot. New Mexico is high on my list of places to visit next. Good Luck on your trip!

 

[Kennedy Crew]

Hey Brigid, not a huge help on route as I have been traveling more northerly to Colorado and points north. Having a RTT you will be wanting a quiet place to camp. One I found that may be close to your route is just off I-22 in northern Mississippi in Holly Springs NF. Chewalla Lake Rec Area.

Chewalla Lake Recreation Area, National Forests in Mississippi - Recreation.gov

Explore Chewalla Lake Recreation Area in National Forests in Mississippi, Mississippi with Recreation.gov. Chewalla Lake Recreation Area is located in the Holly Springs Ranger District in northern Mississippi. Visitors enjoy swimming and relaxing on the sandy beach o

www.recreation.gov

I was on my way to Arkansas at the time and it was a very nice stopover. Reservations at the time, '21 as I remember, were not really necessary but couldn't hurt. Think I was in Site 31 as it was secluded and near water spigot. New Mexico is high on my list of places to visit next. Good Luck on your trip!

Wow, thanks so much! I appreciate all suggestions. Hoping to avoid most of TX unless someone mentions something along the route we shouldn’t miss. NM is one of my favorite states, I hope you get there soon!