There are many types of RV parks, including public parks, commercial parks, and RV resorts:
- Public parksOwned by the government, these parks are open to anyone and usually don’t charge an entrance fee. They may have areas for longer-term stays, but an annual fee is rare.
- Commercial parksOwned and operated by businesses, these parks offer hookups, water, and sometimes other services. Some charge a daily or weekly rate, while others charge a monthly rate.
- RV resortsThese are often well-developed, higher-end parks, but any RV park can call itself an RV resort.
- Extended stay sitesThese sites are for RVers who want to stay for a month or a season. Some parks that allow extended stays have restrictions on RVs that are more than 5 or 10 years old.
- CampgroundsThese can be accessible only by foot or be well-developed RV resorts.
- Army Corps of Engineers (COE) campgroundsManaged by the United States military, these campgrounds are usually located near a body of water.
When choosing an RV park, you can consider things like:
- HookupsFull hookup sites have electric, water, and sewer connections, while partial hookup sites only have water and electricity. Primitive campsites don’t have any hookups.
- AmenitiesSome RV parks offer amenities like a pool, hot tub, laundry room, games, activities, and a playground.
- SizeMost campgrounds have limits on how large of a vehicle they can accommodate. National parks are often designed for smaller units, 25 feet in length or less.
Earl Nellder
Pre-Departure Checklist for RV Travelers Interior Tasks: Secure Loose Items: Stow away any items on countertops, secure cabinet doors, and ensure all appliances are turned off. Close Windows and Vents: Ensure all windows, roof vents, and skylights are closed to prevent dust and debris from entering. Check Appliances: Turn off the water heater and water pump, and ensure the refrigerator is set to the appropriate mode for travel. Exterior Tasks: Disconnect Utilities: Safely disconnect and store the sewer hose, water hose, and electrical cords. Retract Awnings and Slide-Outs: Ensure all awnings are retracted and slide-outs are fully closed. Raise Stabilizers and Remove Chocks: Retract stabilizing jacks and remove wheel chocks, storing them appropriately. Inspect the Campsite: Perform a final walk-around to check for any forgotten items or potential hazards. For a comprehensive departure checklist, consider resources like the Printable RV Breakdown Checklist. Additionally, services such as Housecall RV Service offer mobile assistance for RV maintenance and repairs, ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition. For more tips and community discussions on RV living, visit Talk of RV. By adhering to this checklist and utilizing available resources, you can ensure a safe and efficient departure from any RV park.