Any experienced RVer knows that now’s the time to start calling and reserving spots at popular RV parks, as the most sought-after destinations can fill up weeks, even months, in advance.
When making reservations, you should remember that it’s not all about securing a campsite; it’s also about ensuring that the location you choose is conducive to the kind of experience you hope to have. Asking the right clarifying questions before you commit to a specific RV park can help you decide if you should keep looking elsewhere, and it can also help you be prepared for what to expect if you decide to camp there.
To help make sure you pick the campground that will offer you the most enjoyment out of your vacation, here are a few questions to ask when making your next RV park reservation:
How Far Will My Campsite Be From Other Campers?
Space is a big deal for many RVers, and it’s understandable why. Many campers seek time in their RVs to get away from the commotion and stress of their regular routines, and if you’re parked right next to another family’s campsite, it’s hard to truly get into that zone of quiet solitude.
If this sounds like you, then it’s a great idea to ask about how far you can expect your campsite to be from the others. That way, if you’re looking for privacy, you can make sure you get the seclusion you need to fully relax and unwind.
What Kind of Wildlife Can I Expect to See?
It’s always a good idea to get a sense of what type of wildlife will be surrounding you. This way, you’ll know what to be on the lookout for if you are into nature photography or sightseeing, but you’ll also get a better sense of what to pack with you.
For example, ask the attendant what types of insects you should prepare to combat so that you bring the right kind of bug spray along and take effective preventative measures inside your RV. Specifically, it’s in your best interest to ask when you should be most cautious of ticks. Nothing can ruin a relaxing vacation faster than finding out you’re covered in blood-sucking arachnids, and to help prevent this scenario, many places will warn you about which times during the camping season they are the most abundant.
Are There Any Local Attractions I Can Visit?
While some campers prefer to veg-out and bask in the great outdoors, others like to mix up their day by visiting local attractions and restaurants near where they’re staying. You can usually find this information online, but asking the staff member who is taking your reservation is an excellent way to gain deeper insight into the area.
They most likely know the surroundings quite well, and they work with campers on a daily basis, which means they have the inside scoop on native favorites and hidden gems you may not find out about otherwise.
What Is the Scenery of the RV Park Like?
Being able to paint a mental picture of the campsite-in-question ahead of time will help you be more confident in the RV park you choose to travel to. To help you do this, ask about the following conditions:
- Is there a paved area that you park your RV on, or is it a dirt road?
- Will you have a picnic table or grill at your site?
- Is the campsite slanted or fairly level?
- Can you see main roads, or is the spot solely surrounded by nature? Is there natural water nearby to go swimming?
- Is shade provided, or will you be parked directly in the sun?
You get the idea; the more details you ask for, the more you’ll know what sort of scenery to expect.
What Amenities Are Offered?
The amenities offered can vary quite dramatically from campground to campground, so ask what’s available to make sure you’ll end up with what you need. Here are a few key areas to inquire about:
- What hookups will your spot have? Electric? Sewer? Water? All of these?
- Is there Wifi available? If so, is it included in the rate, or is there a nightly fee you’ll have to pay to gain access?
- Are there trails to explore by walking, biking, or even horseback riding?
- Do they offer any specialty amenities, such as laundry or showers?
- Are big rigs likely to fit into the campground without any hassle?
- Are pets welcome off-leash, or would you have to keep your dogs tied up the whole time?
Hopefully these tips leave you better prepared to plan an RV vacation that is free of irksome surprises so that you can indulge in an easygoing, stress-free time. Remember that the secret to most things in life resides in the details, and the trick to finding the best RV parks is no different. Campgrounds come in all shapes and sizes, so never be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to until you feel satisfied that you are heading to the perfect place.
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