Camping is one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors.
However, the spoiler is when you cannot find an appropriate space to camp in the camping ground.
In such a situation, some RV spots can be a safe place to pitch a camping tent.
However, can you tent camp in an RV spot? Being able to tent camp in an RV spot depends on the campgrounds. Some will let you camp in the spots, but it’s best to call ahead and confirm before you pack up and head for the site.
You have your camping essentials with you; however, the probability of pitching a tent camp in an RV spot is subjective.
Can you tent camp in an RV spot?
Tent camping in an RV spot is primarily dependent on the RV park rules and regulations.
Some of the RV parks allow tent camps in their spots and some seasons.
Whatever the case may be, ensuring whether the camp tent can be set up or not is better done beforehand to avoid any disappointment.
RV parks permit camping based on the set up they have.
The majority of RV parks cater depending on the space they have, the crowd they have, and other seasonal requirements.
Your campsite tent should be accommodative in size to the RV spot.
A camping ground has enough space to pitch a tent.
Other than that, the RV park ground should be able to adhere to the camp tent.
This is because RV parks made of concrete and other hard materials cannot hold the tent, unlike a camping ground.
As with an RV camper who requires to reserve the site for your RV, the same is the case when you wish to camp on your RV spot.
Call ahead to ensure the space is available to camp and other essentials handy for you.
Some of the RV parks have designated sites for RV and for camping.
They ensure sufficient camping space is available with more water spigots and bathrooms around to make your camping convenient.
Some of the RV parks generally encourage RV campers to use their hookups as they obtain more money from them or their services are costlier than camping grounds.
Not only this, this way they are able to cater more RVs too.
Since camping needs more space than an RV, the RV campsites are generally slimmer.
They offer space that is sufficient enough for a fire pit, RV, and at times a picnic table.
The other consideration is the type of RV camper hookups used are different from tent camp hookups.
RV parks generally have a site rental with partial, full, or no hookup for an RV site.
You can opt for any of these hookups when RV spots are catering to tent camping. You can choose, depending on your tent size and requirements.
Tent camp in an RV spot is different from a tent camping site and so check beforehand for the availability to have a safe tent camp.
Some primary reasons to avoid tent camp in an RV sport are:
Crowded – RV parks naturally have to make money to operate, so they need as many people as they can to camp on their property. This means the sites will be super close together with little to no privacy.
Distracting – If an RV park features a TV screen outside, it could distract you. If you are in the stride, then you can enjoy a movie or two.
Price – An RV spot can be pricier than a camping site because of the amenities they provide, such as free internet, water, bathroom facilities, recreational amenities, sewage for each site, and electricity. The price reflects the price to be paid.
So, be sure to prepare for these factors when heading for an RV spot.
Essentials to pack if tent camping in an RV spot
When tent camping in an RV spot, you should have all the camping essentials you need to make your camping convenient and comfortable.
Some essentials to pack for are:
Tent – Who would’ve guessed this would make the list! Choose your tent for the location, climate, and your needs. A high-quality tent with a good sleeping bag is essential. Insulating your tent can also help if you’re planning on camping during the winter since campgrounds don’t give you the freedom to set up in a warmer spot.
Water – If your camping site is providing clean and safe drinking water, then it’s fine. However, if not, and there’s a water situation, having potable water in hand is always a good idea. Knowing where to find water in the wilderness is a great idea if you plan to go on any long hiking trips during your stay.
Survival knife – This is a must-have for filleting a fish, cut a rope, or some other tasks. You can get some cutting and slicing help with it. A compact and lightweight survival knife are best to handle everyday tasks.
Medical kit – Painkillers, gauze, bandages, and other first-aid needs should be in this medical kit. They will help you in emergency situations. They will help you and people who have come along with you in case of a cut, injury, or a burn.
Blankets/Sleeping bag – Sleeping bags are essential to avoid night freezing and for a good night’s sleep. It will keep you warm and secure with a secure slip to sleep. Having blankets on hand will help keep you extra warm.
Rainproof and warm clothes -If you are heading for a rain prone area, or are camping during the rainy season, it is best to have rainproof clothes or a raincoat to make you comfortable. Pack up breathable, lightweight, waterproof clothes for the top layer. Pack your clothes to mask the weather conditions. Look for mesh pockets, cinched hoods, and armpit zips in designs.
Mosquito/bug repellent – Have a mosquito or bug repellent with you. Camping sites are generally on low ground, and bugs and mosquitoes are common in such places. A bug/mosquito repellent will help to keep these insects away to have a better and safe camping trip.
Camping chairs – Having camping chairs is better when the ground is wet, grassy, or filled with dry leaves. They will keep your clothes from getting filthy, providing you much-needed comfort in sitting.
Containers – Your camping meals should be packed in bear-proof containers (airtight). These containers are essential when you are eating and cooking in the wild. Bears and raccoons can easily pay you a visit while you’re camping, and they are drawn to your food and other scents. Airtight containers will seal the smell and shield it from wild animals.
Camp lanterns – An LED lantern to set up snacks, lunch, dinner, or help your way to the restroom. You have different camp lanterns available, electrical, solar, gas, or battery operated. You can choose from small to mid-sized for use within the tent and outside.
Camping stove and utensils – Some plates, forks, bowls, knives, spoons, and cups are essential for cooking a hearty camping meal with a camping stove. You can choose from one that is suitable and affordable for your camping location. Some campsites come with grills, so you may just need to bring along a bag of charcoal depending on how you’d like to cook your meals.
Toiletries – Some essential toiletries for the bathing, toilet, and other camping toilet needs should be on hand. These include bath soaps, tissue rolls, lotions, toothpaste, brushes, wipes, sanitizers, and so on.
Others – High-performance cooler, air mattress, survival gear, fire starters, etc. are some other ideas of camping essentials to have on hand. They will assist you with your camping trip to make your tasks easier and convenient. Remember this is your camping trip though, so don’t feel the need to pack every item on this list. Pack what you need for your specific trip.
Pros and cons of tent camping in an RV spot
Pros
- Bathrooms are clean, nice, and big. They are equipped with an electric outlet, hot shower, and tissue rolls.
- RV spots are equipped with facilities of free Wifi, laundry, pool, and good bathrooms.
- RV spots are offered with coffee and donuts free of charge.
- RV spots come equipped with power.
- They are often safe and secure compared to traditional camping sites.
- Most RV parks permit dogs.
Cons
- If RV spots are located along the highway, there are non-stop traffic sounds due to moving vehicles and trucks on the road all through the night.
- RV spots are a little expensive as compared to campground sites.
- RV spots can be distracting with the number of people at the sites.
Conclusion
If you are heading for camping and have no place in a traditional camping site, getting an RV spot is an alternative.
However, you need to get permission or information beforehand about their accommodation for tent camping.
This is because some of the RV parks permit tent camps to RV spots while others do not.
If you do plan on camping at an RV park, be sure to pack everything you need to make it a comfortable and fun camping trip!