It’s vacation time again, and you’re ready to hit the open road with your RV. Just one question. Where will you park when you get there? By putting in a little research before you go, you can find the perfect site to fit your family’s needs. Use this checklist to help navigate your search.
Location
Whether you’re headed on a rural adventure or a big city escape, national parks are usually the best sites for RVs that are 25 feet or shorter. If you need a larger rental space, look for private campgrounds, which are more commonly in suburbs or rural locations.
Amenities
Traveling in an RV doesn’t mean sacrificing the resort experience. If you’re willing to pay extra fees, many private campgrounds offer access to swimming pools, game rooms, and electric/water hookups for self-sufficient RVs.
Exploration
Many rental units have limited space, so if you want to stretch your legs or get the kids out to play, you may need a campsite with all-inclusive activities and natural features. From horseback riding to hiking paths to lakes with water features, you can find a campsite to match almost any interest.
Reviews
Make sure your advance research includes a glance at the online reviews. Sure, the campsite website may showcase an outstanding experience. But, what are real campers saying? Reviews can reveal a lot!
Reservations
Once you’ve selected your campsite, book online, it’s a convenient way to guarantee your stay. Plus, you can often find special rates online.
Upon Arrival
There are some things you can’t determine from online research. So, once you arrive, confirm that your site meets all expectations.
- Try to avoid being in a valley, which can get “swampy” in a hurry if an unexpected rain storm pops up.
- Have your lumber ready. If your unit is not perfectly level, you may need two-foot sections of 2” x 10” lumber to stabilize your wheels. Doing so helps your water system drain properly and improves the performance of your refrigerator and air conditioner.
- Be mindful of where you drive spikes when you secure the rope that holds your awning in place. You don’t want to hit a sprinkler or inground object.
- When possible, select a “pull-through” site. Save yourself the hassle of backing in or out. Just pull right in, align the RV with hookups and the patio area, and pull on out when it’s time to go.
And most importantly, have fun! Your RV vacation is an opportunity for an unforgettable getaway. So, enjoy every minute.