RV Parks have more amenities like cable tv, wifi and pools and are more for recreational vehicles than tent campers. A campground may have electricity and water or not.
The cost of an RV park will depend on whether it’s located in or outside town. While there’s no standard park cost for every location, you should expect to pay an average of $30-$200 per night. And you must factor in things like location, amenities, and availability – they can impact the overall costs.
For instance, some RV parks tend to have free Wi-Fi, bathrooms, cable hookups, playgrounds, and pools. Most parks are built with RV Parking in mind and allow for camping tents.
The cost of RV campgrounds will depend on the amenities offered. And because they are located in nature-surrounded areas, the cost can average $20 to $50 a night.
One factor that influences the overall cost is the availability of amenities. The time of the year also matters. Most campsites tend to jack up their prices during warm weather. In colder months, you should expect to pay for next to nothing. Of course, a monthly package can give a better overall deal if you’re planning for a longer trip.
Some states are also expensive than others. If a state has a high cost of living, the campground has more amenities. But again, you’ll be surprised to know numerous places in the US where you can camp for free.
Finally, the cost of a campground will depend on the type of RV you have. You should expect to pay more if you’re using amenities like electricity, running water, etc.
How long you stay
Whether you want to spend the summer traveling the country or take an extended vacation, you can choose an RV park or campground.
Most campgrounds have a maximum time limit that travelers can stay. And because each has a set of rules, you should know them before you embark on your vacation. If you don’t take time to gather the information, then be ready for disappointments.
For government-owned campgrounds, you should expect to pay for up to 14 days. During the offseason, the duration can extend up to 21 days. But here is the catch – private RV campgrounds tend to be more flexible. Some offer extended weekly and monthly stays to ensure you get the most from your adventure. Most parks are well-maintained and have a quiet time.
The duration of stay will also depend on where the campsite is located and the population of the area. For instance, a tourist hotspot tends to be stricter, while out-of-reach areas are far laxer. Those campgrounds with a picnic table and fire pit ensure a comfortable stay.
The climate of the area also matters. If the campground is located in deep mountainous regions, it may close during the winter months. So, before you factor in the costs associated with year-round camping, you should choose a location that is open all four seasons.
How long can you stay in an RV Park?
You can stay at an RV park for 14 consecutive days. Some offer seasonal rates, so you may want to check before making a reservation. Furthermore, you should check if there’s any kind of special event.
In California, campers can stay in the parks for up to 30 nights. If you plan to camp in state and national parks, you may not be allowed to stay longer. Most RV parks are well maintained and guarantee a quiet and peaceful environment.
Length of RV
While an RV will give you all the comforts of your home, some buyers tend to regret the purchase of the RV is too big.
Most parks can accommodate RVs that measure 15-30 feet long. At that size, you’ll find a spot that is big enough to handle your rig.
To be on the safer side, you should take the manufacturer’s measurements and add a few feet. This will help you play safe for the extra maneuvering space. But you never know; your RV length could be longer than what is being advertised.
Most campgrounds have their own length limit, so you should confirm to make your stay a breeze. On average, campgrounds allow RVs up to 19 feet. If your RV is 29-32 feet long, only 70% of the campgrounds will let you in. The number drops by a significant margin if the RV is over 35 feet.
If your RV has a pull-behind trailer, this is something you should consider before you book your campsite.
BLM
BLM-managed campgrounds require a fee, and the reservations are on a first-come, first-serve basis. The camping limit varies from two weeks to a month.
Bureau of land management (BLM) manages over 400 acres of campgrounds. Each describes the available amenities and the details of the reservation. Some accommodate small RV campers, while others allow large RV combinations.
An RV park is not part of BLM.
What to expect
A campground pays greater emphasis on scenic views and nature. The driveways will rarely have hookups but can accommodate large rigs. On the other hand, RV parks have water and electrical hookups
Which one is right for you?
If you’re looking for modern amenities and an outdoorsy experience, an RV park will give the best of both worlds. You’ll be secluded from the neighbors, and you get a resort experience at a fraction of the cost. It’s worth mentioning some parks may require your RV to meet special requirements. Before you get to the park, you may want to call ahead to reserve your space.
If you’re interested in outdoorsy activities without sacrificing modern amenities, an RV campground is a sure bet. You can find good hiking trails and greater seclusion from neighbors.
But because most campgrounds are private properties, there’re imitations on the size of the RV. The trade-off is affordability for those on a tight budget. Of course, you can enjoy a more relaxed environment.
An RV allows you to embark on camping adventures while retaining the comforts of your home. For full-time RVers, some of the expenses you’ll encounter are park and campground costs. If you’re not careful, these costs can add up quickly over the year.
Whether you’re on a long-term RV excursion or traversing the country, you’ve come across many RV parks and campgrounds. While both areas allow campers to park their RVs, there’re some differences to keep in mind.
