Choosing the right RV campground can make or break your trip. After staying in over 200 campgrounds across North America, I’ve learned exactly what separates amazing stays from disappointing ones. Here’s my complete guide to finding the perfect spot for your RV adventure.

What Makes a Great RV Campground?

Not all campgrounds are created equal. The best ones excel in these key areas:

Essential Amenities

Full Hookups - Water, electric (50/30 amp), and sewer connections at your site mean maximum convenience and comfort.

WiFi That Actually Works - Many campgrounds advertise WiFi but few deliver usable speeds. Read recent reviews to verify.

Clean Facilities - Spotless bathrooms and laundry facilities indicate good management and maintenance standards.

Level Sites - Unlevel sites make sleeping uncomfortable and can damage your RV’s systems. Look for campgrounds that grade their pads regularly.

Location Factors

The best campground location depends on your trip style:

  • Full-time travelers prefer campgrounds near grocery stores and services
  • Weekend warriors want proximity to hiking trails and attractions
  • Beach lovers need easy beach access without highway crossings
  • Mountain enthusiasts look for higher elevation sites with views

Red Flags to Watch For

Through experience, I’ve learned to spot warning signs:

Review Red Flags

  • Multiple complaints about surprise fees
  • Reports of aggressive management
  • Mentions of safety concerns
  • Poor WiFi despite claims otherwise
  • Outdated or misleading photos

Pricing Red Flags

  • Hidden resort fees not mentioned upfront
  • Extra charges for basic amenities
  • Unclear cancellation policies
  • Required minimum stays during off-season

How to Research Like a Pro

Here’s my proven research process:

1. Check Multiple Review Sources

  • Google Reviews for recent experiences
  • RV-specific forums for detailed insights
  • Direct reviews on campground websites
  • Social media groups for honest feedback

2. Look at Recent Photos

Campgrounds change over time. Focus on photos from the last 6 months to see current conditions.

3. Call and Ask Questions

A 5-minute phone call reveals a lot:

  • How responsive is staff?
  • Do they answer questions thoroughly?
  • Are they friendly and helpful?
  • Do they volunteer important information?

4. Verify Amenities

Don’t assume anything. Confirm:

  • Actual WiFi speeds (ask for specifics)
  • Site dimensions for your RV length
  • Amp service available (50 vs 30)
  • Pet policies and restrictions
  • Quiet hours enforcement

Site Selection Strategies

Once you’ve chosen a campground, picking the right site matters:

Best Sites Usually:

  • Are away from bathrooms (noise) but not too far (convenience)
  • Avoid sites near dumpsters or main roads
  • Offer some shade without overhanging branches
  • Provide privacy from neighbors
  • Have level parking pads

Sites to Avoid:

  • Corner sites near traffic
  • Sites under large trees (sap, branches, satellite issues)
  • Pull-through sites near entrances (noise)
  • Sites next to playgrounds if you value quiet
  • Low spots that may flood in rain

Booking Best Practices

When to Book

  • Peak season (summer, holidays): Book 6-12 months ahead
  • Shoulder season (spring, fall): Book 2-3 months ahead
  • Off-season (winter in north): Book 2-4 weeks ahead

What to Confirm at Booking

Get written confirmation of:

  • Exact site number
  • Total price including all fees
  • Check-in/check-out times
  • Cancellation policy
  • Refund terms

My Top Campground Recommendations

Based on hundreds of stays, here are standout campgrounds worth visiting:

For Families

Campgrounds with pools, playgrounds, and planned activities create memorable experiences for kids while parents relax.

For Full-Timers

Look for monthly rates, strong WiFi, laundry facilities, and proximity to services. Community atmosphere matters for longer stays.

For Weekend Getaways

Proximity to attractions beats amenities for short stays. Focus on location over facility quality.

Cost Expectations

Understanding typical pricing helps you budget:

  • Basic sites (no hookups): $20-40/night
  • Partial hookups (water/electric): $35-55/night
  • Full hookups: $45-75/night
  • Luxury resorts: $75-150/night
  • Monthly rates: Often 50-70% off daily rates

Questions to Ask Before Booking

  1. What’s the maximum RV length you accommodate?
  2. Are sites level or will I need leveling blocks?
  3. What’s your WiFi speed and reliability?
  4. Are there additional fees beyond the nightly rate?
  5. What’s included in your amenity package?
  6. How far is the nearest grocery store?
  7. Do you have security or gated access?
  8. What’s your cancellation and refund policy?

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Season

  • Book early for popular destinations
  • Expect premium prices
  • Prepare for crowded facilities
  • Consider less-popular locations for better deals

Winter Season

  • Southern campgrounds fill with snowbirds
  • Northern campgrounds often close
  • Look for monthly rates
  • Verify heating capabilities

My Final Recommendations

After years of RV travel, here’s my philosophy:

For Short Trips - Prioritize location over amenities. You won’t use that fancy pool if you’re out exploring all day.

For Long Stays - Amenities matter more. Good WiFi, clean laundry, and community atmosphere become important.

For Work-Camping - Reliable WiFi and a comfortable workspace beat everything else.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Booking without reading recent reviews - Campgrounds change management and quality can decline.

  2. Assuming WiFi will work - Always have a backup plan for internet access.

  3. Not verifying site dimensions - Many campgrounds list maximum RV length but sites vary.

  4. Skipping the phone call - Direct communication reveals a lot about management quality.

  5. Paying too far in advance - Plans change. Look for refundable options when possible.

Resources I Use

These tools help me find and book great campgrounds:

  • RV Campground Directories - Comprehensive listings with verified information
  • Google Maps - Satellite view shows actual campground layout
  • Review Platforms - Multiple sources provide balanced perspectives
  • Social Media Groups - Real-time updates and recommendations

Ready to Book?

Remember: the perfect campground depends on your specific needs. A family with kids has different priorities than solo travelers or full-time RVers.

Start with location, verify essential amenities, read recent reviews, and don’t hesitate to call with questions. Taking time to research saves money and prevents disappointing experiences.

Need help finding RV campgrounds in specific areas? Check out our comprehensive campground reviews with detailed pros, cons, and honest recommendations from our team’s firsthand visits.

Happy camping!