RV travel in the USA has always been a dream of mine, and I finally made it happen. After bringing my camper van over from Europe, I hit the road 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. With limited campgrounds, restrictions on wild camping, and a few unexpected service challenges, I learned some things the hard way.
To help you avoid the same surprises, I’ve put together this article with practical tips and advice. With a bit of planning, you can make the most of your camper van adventure and enjoy everything this amazing country has to offer.
Ready to discover the essentials before hitting the road? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Campgrounds Fill Up Fast
One of the biggest surprises during my camper van journey in the US was how hard it can be to find a campground spot. With more people getting into camper van travel, spaces fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.
Since RV travel is getting more popular, both locals and tourists are competing for spots. For popular places, especially national parks, you’ll need to book way ahead—sometimes even six months before your trip!
To avoid the stress of searching for a spot at the last minute, it’s a good idea to reserve early. Most campgrounds let you book months in advance, so you can rest easy knowing you’ll have a place to stay.
Planning ahead and booking early are key to having a smooth and enjoyable camper van adventure in the US. It’ll save you from stressing about where to park every night!
2. Dispersed Camping Isn’t Allowed Everywhere
When RVing in the US, keep in mind that dispersed camping isn’t allowed everywhere. In popular areas, there may be restrictions or even bans on boondocking.
To avoid any issues, it’s a good idea to research where you can park overnight before you head out. Some spots are for daytime parking only and have set hours.
You’ll likely spot signs like “No overnight parking” or “No overnight camping,” which can be confusing. So, it’s worth checking the local rules before you go.
While dispersed camping is usually allowed in state forests, there are areas where it’s not. If you’re stuck, traveler rest areas might be an option, but keep in mind each state has its own rules about overnight RV camping.
Apps like The Dyrt or iOverlander are great for finding boondocking spots. Just remember, the info might not always be up-to-date, so it’s a good idea to double-check that camping is allowed at a specific spot to avoid any trouble.
3. Most Parks Need an Entrance Pass
When RVing in the United States, most parks require special entrance passes.
Federal and state-run campgrounds often have their own access rules. A popular choice is the America the Beautiful pass, which covers national parks and other federally-managed areas.
Each state also has its own passes for state parks, so be sure to check those too.
These passes are especially useful if you’re visiting multiple parks—they can make entry easier and even save you money on accommodations.
However, you’ll still need to pay for your campsite, and fees can vary, so it’s smart to check the prices ahead of time.
Before your trip, take a few minutes to check entrance pass requirements and campsite fees on the official park websites.
Not all state campgrounds need an entrance pass—some offer single-use permits for camping.
4. Some Parks Restrict RV Sizes
When planning RV travel in the USA, it’s super important to check for vehicle size restrictions in certain national and state parks. This is especially crucial if your RV is on the larger side.
For example, Yosemite National Park in California has specific rules for vehicle sizes on certain roads, like Mariposa Grove Road and Glacier Point Road. These rules cover length, width, and weight.
Similarly, Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah has size restrictions on areas like Sunrise Point and Inspiration Point Road, mainly focusing on vehicle length.
To make your trip smoother, I recommend doing some research ahead of time. Check out the official park websites for the most accurate info.
This way, you can make sure your RV fits the size requirements and enjoy the parks without any hassles. Remember, these restrictions help protect the parks’ natural beauty.
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5. RV travel in the USA: RV Services Aren’t Free Everywhere
When traveling by RV in the United States, it’s good to know that most RV service facilities come with a fee, which is different from what you might be used to in Europe.
Typically, you’ll pay a one-time fee of around $10 to use these services.
These facilities are usually at campgrounds, and if you haven’t paid for a campsite, you might need to fork out some extra cash for things like dumping gray water or emptying your toilet.
In more remote areas, finding places to dispose of waste can be tricky, even if you’re willing to pay.
If you’re planning a longer trip or heading to less touristy spots, it’s smart to plan ahead and carry extra water in containers. That way, if you end up staying longer than expected in places without facilities, you’ll have what you need.
To keep things running smoothly, check the availability and fees for camper service facilities before you go.
You can find useful info on official websites for national and state parks, and apps like The Dyrt or iOverlander are awesome for this kind of stuff too!
6. Don’t Count on Strong Wi-Fi Everywhere
As you get ready for your RV trip across the United States, it’s important to keep in mind the limited internet and cell service outside of urban areas.
This can be a bit of a hassle if you need quick info about your destinations or if you plan to work remotely on the road.
Rural, mountainous, and wooded areas often have weak or spotty coverage.
But don’t stress—there are some solutions to boost your RV’s connectivity. You can pick up a local SIM card, use a router, or even install a signal booster antenna.
To avoid any internet hiccups, it’s smart to download offline maps before you head out. This way, you’ll still have reliable navigation even without a connection.
I also recommend checking the internet availability at your campsites ahead of time. Keep in mind, some campgrounds may charge extra for internet.
From my experience, coverage tends to be better on the plains compared to mountainous or wooded spots.
So, as you plan your RV adventure across the US, keep this in mind and adjust your expectations based on the regions you’re exploring!
7. RV Travel in the USA: Attractions Are Far Apart
When planning your RV trip across the US, one thing to keep in mind is that the distances between attractions can be huge.
This country is massive, so some destinations can be miles apart, meaning you’ll need to plan your route carefully.
Some states in the US are as big as entire countries in Europe, so you might not be able to hit every spot on your list. Rather than rushing through a bunch of places, it’s often more fun to pick a few and really dive into them.
Before you hit the road, make a list of the attractions you really want to see and check if they’re close to each other.
This will help you avoid unnecessary stress and let you enjoy the journey and the amazing nature along the way.
Remember, RV travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations—it’s about soaking in the experience!
8. Campgrounds Can Be Pricey
If you’ve camped in Europe, it’s important to know that campsites in the U.S. tend to be a bit pricier.
For instance, luxury campsites with pools and other amenities can cost as much as $200 per night, especially in places like coastal California or Florida, where the prime locations and beach access come at a premium.
Most campsites typically range from $60 to $150 per night, and when you add in the daily RV rental costs, the total can quickly exceed many travelers’ budgets.
But don’t worry—there are budget-friendly options! National and state parks often have campsites that range from $30 to $100 per night, depending on the location and amenities available.
Just note that some parks might charge a reservation fee of about $10.
To keep costs down, do some research on campground prices and options in the areas you’re planning to visit. Staying flexible and open to changing campsites or making last-minute reservations can help you save even more.
By planning ahead, you can make choices that keep your trip within budget and still enjoy all the beauty the U.S. has to offer!
9. RV Travel in the USA: Some Roads Need Repair
When you’re heading out on an RV trip in the U.S., be prepared for some rough roads. Even major highways can have potholes and bumpy patches that might rattle you a bit. So, it’s good to be ready for that!
Make sure to pack a spare tire and a solid repair kit—it’ll save you a lot of stress. If something goes wrong, you’ll either be able to fix it yourself or get to a workshop without too much hassle, keeping your adventure going smoothly.
Also, when planning your route, it’s a smart move to stick to the major highways. Those scenic back roads might be tempting, but they can come with risks like tire punctures—and nobody wants that!
Remember, your RV journey is all about enjoying the views and having fun, but staying safe and comfortable on the road is just as important. Stay alert, and keep an eye out for road conditions.
With the right gear and a bit of planning, you’ll have an amazing time exploring all the beauty the U.S. has to offer!
10. Some States Won’t Let You Pump Your Own Gas
When you’re traveling by RV in the United States, be aware of some quirky fueling rules, especially in New Jersey. The state has a law that doesn’t allow self-service gas pumping, which might surprise you.
The main reason for this rule is safety. Gasoline is considered hazardous, and allowing people to pump their own gas increases the risk of things like fires, explosions, or leaks—not something anyone wants, right?
Plus, gasoline vapors can be harmful to your health, especially for pregnant women or those with respiratory issues. If you try to pump your own gas in New Jersey, you could face a fine anywhere from $50 to $250.
So, while cruising through New Jersey in your RV, just remember to let the gas station attendants handle the pumping. 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 come across during your RV travel in the USA? Drop your tips and experiences in the comments below to help out your fellow travelers!
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to share it with your friends. Wishing you safe travels and plenty of unforgettable moments on the road!
