RV travel in the USA has always been a dream of mine, and I finally made it happen. After bringing my camper van from Europe, I set out to explore everything from famous national parks to hidden gems in state parks.
But I quickly realized that traveling by camper van in the USA is a bit different. Limited campgrounds, restrictions on wild camping, and a few unexpected service challenges took me by surprise.
To help you avoid the same surprises, I’ve put together this article full of practical tips and advice. With some planning, you can make the most of your camper van adventure and truly enjoy all that this amazing country has to offer.
Let this guide be your go-to resource as you start your camper van journey in the USA!
Table of Contents
1. Campground Availability in the United States is Limited
One of the biggest surprises during my camper van journey in the US was how hard it can be to find campground spots. With more people getting into camper van travel, spots fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays.
The growing popularity of RV travel in the USA means both locals and tourists are competing for spaces. For popular places, especially in national parks, you’ll need to book well in advance—sometimes as early as six months before your trip.
To avoid the hassle of searching for a spot last minute, it’s best to reserve early. Most campgrounds let you book several months ahead, so you can rest easy knowing you’ll have a place to stay.
Planning ahead and booking early are key to a smooth and fun camper van adventure in the US. It’ll help you enjoy your trip without worrying about where to park each night!
2. Dispersed Camping is Not Allowed Everywhere in the US
When traveling by RV in the United States, it’s good to know that dispersed camping isn’t allowed everywhere. In popular tourist spots, there can be restrictions or even bans on boondocking.
To avoid any headaches, make sure to research suitable overnight parking locations before you set off. Some places are only for daytime parking and have specific hours.
You might come across signs that say “No overnight parking” or “No overnight camping,” which can be a bit confusing. So, take some time to check out the local parking regulations before your trip.
While you can often find dispersed camping in state forests, there are still areas where it’s not permitted. If you’re in a pinch, you can look for traveler rest areas. Just keep in mind that each state has its own rules about overnight camping in an RV.
To find good spots for boondocking, apps like The Dyrt or iOverlander can be super handy.
Just remember that the info in these apps might not always be up to date, so it’s a smart idea to double-check if boondocking is allowed in a specific spot to steer clear of any issues with law enforcement.
3. Many Campgrounds in the US Require Entrance Passes
When traveling by RV in the United States, it’s good to know that many campgrounds require special entrance passes.
Campgrounds run by federal and state agencies usually have their own rules for getting in. A popular choice is the America the Beautiful pass, which gives you access to national parks and federally-managed recreational areas.
On top of that, each state has its own passes for state parks and other spots, so make sure to check those out, too. Having these passes can really pay off, especially if you plan to visit multiple parks.
They not only make it easier to access campgrounds but can also help you save some cash on your accommodations.
Keep in mind that, in addition to the entrance passes, you’ll also need to pay for your campsite. Fees can vary, so it’s smart to look up the pricing beforehand to avoid any surprises.
Before you hit the road, take a few minutes to check the entrance pass requirements and campsite fees on the official websites of the parks you want to visit.
Not every state campground requires an entrance pass; some offer single-use permits for camping.
4. Some Parks Have Restrictions on Vehicle Size
When planning RV travel in the USA, it’s super important to check for vehicle size restrictions in certain national and state parks. Knowing these limitations is especially crucial if your RV is larger than usual.
For instance, Yosemite National Park in California has specific rules for vehicle sizes on certain roads, like Mariposa Grove Road and Glacier Point Road. These rules include limits on length, width, and weight.
Likewise, Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah also enforces size restrictions in areas like Sunrise Point and Inspiration Point Road, particularly regarding vehicle length.
To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, I highly recommend doing some research beforehand. Check out the official park websites for the most accurate info.
This way, you can ensure your RV meets the size requirements and fully enjoy the stunning beauty of these amazing parks without any hassles.
Keep in mind that these size restrictions are in place to protect the parks and maintain their natural beauty.
By following these guidelines, you’ll have the chance to dive into the breathtaking landscapes and pristine nature that US national parks have to offer!
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5. RV travel in the USA: RV Dump Stations Are Paid
When traveling by RV in the United States, it’s good to know that most RV service facilities come with a fee, which is a bit different from many places in Europe. Usually, you’ll pay a one-time fee of around $10 to use these amenities.
These facilities are typically found at campgrounds and aren’t included in the camping fee. So even if you’ve paid for a campsite, you might need to shell out some extra cash to access the camper services.
In less touristy areas, it can be tough to find spots for dumping gray water or emptying the toilet, even if you’re willing to pay.
If you’re planning a longer trip or heading into more remote regions, it’s a smart idea to plan ahead and carry extra water in containers. That way, you’ll have enough on hand if your stay unexpectedly extends beyond areas with facilities.
To keep your camper journey as smooth as possible, make sure to check out the availability and fees for camper service facilities at each location.
You can find useful information on the official websites of national and state parks. Also, apps like The Dyrt and iOverlander can be super helpful for this kind of info!
6. Outside the City There is No Internet and Mobile Coverage
As you prepare for your RV trip in the United States, it’s super important to think about the limited availability of internet and cellular networks outside urban areas.
This can be a real hassle if you need instant access to info about your destinations or if you’re planning to work remotely while on the road.
Rural, mountainous, and wooded areas often have weak or unstable internet and cellular coverage.
But don’t worry; there are some solutions to boost your RV’s internet connectivity. You can grab a local SIM card, use a router, or even install a signal booster antenna.
To avoid any hiccups with internet access, it’s a good idea to download offline maps on your mobile device before you hit the road. This way, you’ll still have reliable navigation even without an internet connection.
I also recommend checking the internet availability at your chosen campsites ahead of time. Just keep in mind that some campgrounds might charge extra for internet usage.
In my experience, coverage is usually better on the plains compared to mountainous or wooded areas.
So, as you plan your RV adventure across the U.S., keep this in mind and adjust your expectations about internet availability based on the specific regions you’re looking to explore!
7. RV travel in the USA: Distances Between Attractions Are Significant
Another thing to think about when planning an RV trip in the United States is the big distances between attractions. This country is huge, so some places can be miles apart, which means you’ll need to plan your route carefully.
Keep in mind that some states in the U.S. are as big as entire countries in Europe!
So, you might not be able to see everything on your list. Instead of rushing through a bunch of spots in a short time, it’s way more fun to pick a few places and really explore them.
Before you hit the road, make a list of the attractions you really want to check out and see if they’re in the same state or nearby. This way, you can avoid any unnecessary stress and have a chill time exploring national and state parks.
Remember, traveling by RV in the U.S. isn’t just about visiting a ton of places—it’s also about enjoying the journey and soaking in the amazing nature around you.
8. Campsites in the USA are More Expensive than European Ones
If you’ve experienced European campsites, it’s essential to understand the price differences in the U.S. Generally, campsites here tend to be more expensive than those across the pond.
For example, luxurious campsites with amenities like pools can cost up to $200 per night. Coastal spots in California or Florida also command a premium due to their prime locations and beach access.
Typically, campsite prices range from $60 to $150 per night. When you factor in the daily rental costs for your RV, camper travel can quickly become pricey and may exceed many travelers’ budgets.
However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available! Campsites in national and state parks usually range from $30 to $100 per night, depending on the location and available facilities.
Just keep in mind that some parks may charge an additional reservation fee of around $10.
When planning your trip, make sure to choose campsites that fit your budget. A little research on prices and campground options in your desired areas can make a big difference.
Additionally, staying flexible and open to changing your campground or making last-minute reservations can help you save money.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can make smart choices that align with your budget and truly enjoy your RV adventure in the United States!
9. RV travel in the USA: Some Roads Require Repair
When you’re hitting the road on a RV trip in the United States, it’s super important to prepare for some rough roads. Even the main highways can have potholes and bumpy spots that might shake you up a bit. So, being ready for that is key!
Make sure to pack a spare tire and a good repair kit. Trust me, it’ll save you a lot of headaches. If you do hit a snag, you’ll be able to either fix it yourself or get to a workshop without too much hassle, keeping your adventure on track.
Also, when you’re mapping out your route, it’s smart to stick to the major highways. Those back roads can be tempting, but they often come with more risks like tire punctures. Nobody wants to deal with that!
Just keep in mind that your camper journey is all about enjoying the amazing views and having fun, but it’s also important to stay safe and comfortable while driving. So, stay alert and watch out for road conditions as you go.
With the right gear and a bit of planning, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring all the beauty the U.S. has to offer!
10. In Some States, Self-service Gas Pumping is Prohibited
When you’re traveling by RV in the United States, be aware of some unique fueling rules, especially in New Jersey. This state has a law that doesn’t allow self-service gas pumping, which might catch you off guard.
The main reason for this rule is safety. Gasoline is seen as a hazardous material, and letting people pump their own gas can raise the risk of fires, explosions, or leaks, which isn’t good for anyone—travelers or the environment.
Plus, gasoline vapors can be pretty harmful to your health, especially for pregnant women or anyone with respiratory issues. If you try to pump gas yourself at a station in New Jersey, you could get hit with a fine that ranges from $50 to $250.
So, when you’re cruising through New Jersey in your RV, remember to let the gas station attendants do the pumping for you. It’ll keep things safe and help you avoid any legal headaches!
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RV travel in the USA: Summary
Hitting the road in an RV across the USA is an amazing adventure, letting you soak in the stunning sights and unique vibes of this incredible country.
Before you take off on your trip, it’s super important to get familiar with a few handy tips that can make your RV travel in the USA smoother and more enjoyable.
I really hope this list helps you have an awesome time on your RV journey in the United States and makes it a truly memorable experience!
What other surprises did you run into during your RV travel in the USA? Feel free to share your tips and experiences in the comments below to help out your fellow travelers!
If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to share it with your friends. Wishing you safe travels and lots of unforgettable moments on the road!