Day 1: Depart Chicagoland – Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

  • Drive: Approximately 450 miles (about 7 hours).
  • Highlights: Enjoy a scenic drive heading south.
  • Overnight: Set up camp at an RV-friendly site in Mammoth Cave National Park.

Day 2: Explore Mammoth Cave National Park

  • Activities:
    • Join a guided cave tour.
    • Hike on one of the park’s trails.
    • Visit the visitor center for fascinating cave facts.
  • Overnight: Continue camping in the park.

Day 3: Mammoth Cave to Louisville, KY

  • Drive: About 1.5–2 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Visit Louisville Waterfront Park or stroll through downtown.
    • Option to check out Churchill Downs if time permits.
  • Overnight: Park your RV at a local RV park near Louisville.

Day 4: Louisville to Nashville, TN

  • Drive: Roughly 3 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Enjoy the changing landscapes as you drive south.
    • Arrive in Nashville by mid-afternoon.
  • Overnight: Stay at an RV park in or near Nashville.

Day 5: Discover Nashville

  • Activities:
    • Explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Music Row.
    • Enjoy Nashville’s vibrant dining and live music scene in the evening.
  • Overnight: Continue your stay at the Nashville RV campground.

Day 6: Nashville to Gatlinburg (Great Smoky Mountains), TN

  • Drive: Approximately 3.5 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Take a scenic drive into the foothills of the Smokies.
    • Arrive near Gatlinburg and set up camp close to the park’s entrance.
  • Overnight: RV campground in the Gatlinburg/Smoky Mountains area.

Day 7: Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

  • Activities:
    • Hike to Laurel Falls or visit Clingmans Dome for panoramic views.
    • Enjoy wildlife watching and the natural beauty of the park.
  • Overnight: Camp within or near the park.

Day 8: More Smokies Adventure

  • Activities:
    • Drive the Cades Cove loop road for historic buildings and wildlife sightings.
    • Explore additional trails and take in the fall colors (if in season) or lush greens of summer.
  • Overnight: Remain at your Smoky Mountains campsite.

Day 9: Gatlinburg to Asheville, NC

  • Drive: About 2 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Enjoy a stretch along the Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville.
    • Arrive in Asheville with time to explore its charming downtown.
  • Overnight: Park at an RV-friendly site near Asheville.

Day 10: Discover Asheville

  • Activities:
    • Tour the expansive Biltmore Estate.
    • Sample local cuisine and craft beers.
    • Explore art galleries and boutique shops.
  • Overnight: Stay at the Asheville RV campground.

Day 11: Asheville to Chattanooga, TN

  • Drive: Roughly 2.5–3 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Arrive in Chattanooga and visit attractions like Rock City, Ruby Falls, or the Tennessee Aquarium.
  • Overnight: Camp at an RV park in the Chattanooga area.

Day 12: Chattanooga to Indianapolis, IN

  • Drive: Approximately 6 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Start your journey north with a comfortable drive.
    • Take breaks along the way to enjoy local sights and meals.
  • Overnight: Park your RV at a site near Indianapolis.

Day 13: Indianapolis to Chicagoland

  • Drive: About 3 hours.
  • Highlights:
    • Enjoy a leisurely drive back toward home.
    • Optional stop in Joliet or another quaint town along the way.
  • Overnight: Arrive in the Chicagoland area; set up camp or return to your home base.

Day 14: Explore Chicagoland

  • Activities:
    • Use this day to unwind and enjoy local attractions such as Millennium Park, Navy Pier, or a local museum.
    • Reflect on your journey with a relaxed day close to home.
  • Overnight: Stay at a local RV park or at your residence if you’re home.

Day 15: Wrap-Up and Final Day

  • Activities:
    • Enjoy any last-minute sightseeing or shopping in the area.
    • Prepare your RV for return.
    • Share memories from your 15‑day journey and plan your next trip!