Welcome to PA, Hawkmoon.
the 1st thing to do is research the regulations & permit requirements for whatever state you will be in.
The rules vary for each state.
Then make sure you are adequately prepared for the climate conditions of the area you will be visiting at any time of year.
. DONT BE COMPLACENT. please don't become another tourist statistic.
Hope you have a great trip & find a bit of gold & opal