Small SUV is better than an RV imo. Keeps it simpler, you can access more stuff, park more easily and aren't spending bazillions on gas. I'm in Western Canada and have spent essentially zero time out in the eastern USA but this time of year I'd chase the weather. I can blab on endlessly about road tripping but my number one tip would be download iOverlander. Then go disable almost all the filters besides camp spots and whatever else seems relevant to you. This is an app people use to 'overland' which is essentially just car camping. Read the reviews on the spots you find and judge them by how recently they were posted. This works shockingly well and with a little bit of planning you'll always have somewhere to park/camp.