1. Types of RV Campsites and Their Costs
RV campsites come in various types, each offering different levels of amenities and services. The price you pay will depend on what kind of campsite you choose. Below are the most common types of RV campsites and their average costs.
a. Basic or Primitive Campsites
Basic or primitive campsites are typically the cheapest option for RV campers. These campsites often do not have hookups for electricity, water, or sewer. They may be located in more remote areas, such as national parks or state forests.
Average Price: $10 to $30 per night
Who Should Choose This?: These campsites are ideal for campers who are self-sufficient or want a more rustic experience. Many seasoned RV travelers who have solar power or generators find these sites perfect for off-grid camping.
SEE ALSO: When Do RV Parks Open? A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
b. Partial Hookup Campsites
Partial hookup campsites offer some utilities, typically electricity and water, but not sewer connections. These are a step up from basic campsites and provide more convenience for campers who still want to experience nature without completely disconnecting.
Average Price: $30 to $50 per night
Who Should Choose This?: Partial hookup campsites are a good option for RVers who want some basic amenities but are comfortable emptying their tanks at a dump station instead of having full hookups at their site.
c. Full Hookup Campsites
Full hookup campsites provide electricity, water, and sewer connections. These sites are the most common at private campgrounds and are perfect for RVers who prefer the convenience of connecting their RV to all necessary utilities.
Average Price: $40 to $80 per night
Who Should Choose This?: Full hookup campsites are ideal for families or individuals who want to have the same conveniences as home, such as long showers and running appliances, without worrying about water and sewer storage.
d. Premium Campsites
Premium campsites often include full hookups and additional features like larger spaces, private fire pits, picnic tables, Wi-Fi, or even cable TV. These sites are usually located in private resorts or highly rated campgrounds with many amenities.
Average Price: $70 to $150 per night
Who Should Choose This?: Premium campsites are perfect for RVers looking for a luxurious camping experience, complete with top-notch facilities and beautiful surroundings.
e. RV Resorts
RV resorts are the most upscale camping option, providing full hookups along with a range of luxury amenities like swimming pools, golf courses, restaurants, and on-site entertainment. These resorts often have large spaces suitable for bigger RVs and are located in vacation destinations.
Average Price: $100 to $300 per night
Who Should Choose This?: RV resorts are designed for campers who want a high-end, all-inclusive experience while enjoying the outdoors. These are great for long stays and family vacations where entertainment and comfort are key.
2. How Location Affects RV Camping Prices
Where you choose to camp can have a major impact on the price. There is a wide range of pricing depending on whether you are staying at a national park, state park, or private campground.
a. National Parks
National parks are some of the most popular destinations for RV camping in the United States. These parks offer stunning natural landscapes but typically have limited amenities compared to private campgrounds. Most national parks offer basic or partial hookup campsites.
Average Price: $15 to $40 per night
Seasonal Variation: Prices at national parks can be higher during peak travel seasons (summer) and may require reservations far in advance.
b. State Parks
State parks offer a variety of camping options, from primitive to full hookups. They are typically less expensive than private campgrounds but may offer fewer amenities.
Average Price: $20 to $50 per night
Who Should Choose This?: State parks are an excellent option for campers who want to explore natural areas without paying the premium costs of private campgrounds or resorts.
c. Private Campgrounds
Private campgrounds are often more expensive than public parks, but they offer a broader range of amenities. These can range from basic campsites to luxurious RV resorts.
Average Price: $40 to $80 per night
Who Should Choose This?: Private campgrounds are ideal for RVers who want additional conveniences such as laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and organized activities.
d. Destination Camping
RV camping in popular tourist destinations such as beaches, mountains, or near cities will generally cost more than camping in rural areas. For instance, RV parks near Disney World or the Grand Canyon can charge significantly higher rates.
Average Price: $60 to $150 per night
Who Should Choose This?: If your camping trip revolves around visiting a specific destination, be prepared to pay a premium for convenient RV parking.
3. How Seasonality Impacts RV Camping Prices
The time of year you choose to go RV camping will also affect the price. Many campgrounds have peak and off-peak pricing based on demand and weather conditions.
a. Peak Season
The peak season for RV camping is typically during the summer months, from June to August, when families are on vacation and the weather is warm. During this time, campgrounds tend to fill up quickly, and prices are at their highest.
Peak Season Price Range: $50 to $150 per night
b. Shoulder Season
The shoulder season refers to the months just before and after peak season, usually in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). During these times, the weather is still pleasant, but the demand for campsites is lower.
Shoulder Season Price Range: $30 to $70 per night
c. Off-Season
The off-season for RV camping is generally in the winter months (November to March), except for warmer states like Florida and Arizona, where RVers flock to escape the cold. During the off-season, you can find some of the best deals on campsites, as demand is much lower.
Off-Season Price Range: $10 to $50 per night
4. Additional Costs to Consider When RV Camping
In addition to the nightly rate for your campsite, there are other expenses you should consider when budgeting for an RV camping trip.
a. Dumping Fees
If you are staying at a campsite without full hookups, you may need to pay a fee to use the campground’s dump station to empty your gray and black water tanks.
Average Cost: $5 to $25 per dump
b. Wi-Fi and Cable
Some campgrounds offer Wi-Fi and cable TV as part of your campsite fee, but others charge extra for these amenities.
Average Cost: $5 to $10 per day for Wi-Fi or cable
c. Firewood and Supplies
Many campgrounds sell firewood, ice, and other supplies on-site, but these items can be more expensive than buying them in advance at a local store.
Average Cost: $5 to $20 for firewood
d. Reservation Fees
When booking a campsite online, some campgrounds charge a non-refundable reservation fee.
Average Cost: $5 to $15 per reservation
e. Pet Fees
If you are traveling with pets, some campgrounds may charge an additional fee to accommodate them.
Average Cost: $5 to $20 per pet, per night
5. Ways to Save Money on RV Camping
There are several ways to save money on RV camping if you plan ahead and consider your options.
a. Campground Memberships
Investing in a campground membership can save you a significant amount of money if you plan to camp frequently. Clubs like Good Sam, Passport America, and Thousand Trails offer discounts at participating campgrounds.
Cost of Membership: $40 to $600 per year, depending on the program
b. Stay Longer
Many campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays. For example, staying for a week or a month may cost less per night than booking individual nights.
c. Boondocking
Boondocking, also known as dry camping, involves staying on public lands or in other free areas without any hookups. While this option requires more self-sufficiency, it can significantly reduce your camping costs.
Cost: Free to $20 per night
d. Use State and National Park Passes
Investing in a state park pass or an America the Beautiful Pass for national parks can save you money on entrance fees and, in some cases, campsite fees.
Cost of America the Beautiful Pass: $80 per year for national parks
Conclusion
The average price for RV camping depends on various factors such as the type of campsite, location, and season. On average, you can expect to pay between $10 and $150 per night, with prices varying depending on the level of amenities and the time of year. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly primitive campsite or a luxurious RV resort, there are options for every type of camper. By understanding the costs involved and planning ahead, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.