Resort camping has become more popular than ever, and RV resorts are popping up all over the country. You might notice the price tag is a lot higher, but that’s because you can expect a completely upgraded camping experience. So, what can you expect from an RV resort?
Expert Advice
RV Resort Camping
Ziplines, waterslides, cocktail bars, and decked-out patios might not be the first things that come to mind when you think about camping. While the word “camping” conjures up images of tents in the woods and rustic simplicity, RV resort campgrounds turn these notions upside down.
RV Resort Campsites
This isn’t your grandpa’s campsite! Concrete pads replace grass and gravel. Manicured landscapes replace scruffy foliage. You might find plush patio furniture and stone fire pits, instead of wooden picnic tables and simple fire rings. Some resorts amp it up with deluxe cabanas and more. Some non-resort private campgrounds are getting in on this trend and offering deluxe patio sites, even if they don’t offer other resort-level amenities.
RV Resort Amenities & Activities
If you can dream it, you can probably do it at an RV resort campground! Waterslides, lazy rivers, hot tubs, and spray grounds replace the basic pool. Sublime spas, grand golf courses, obstacle courses, and stocked fishing ponds replace the basic horseshoe pit and playground. Expect to find a full schedule of activities catering to all ages (think yoga, laser tag, wine tastings, and more). Your pets will even be treated like kings and queens, with dog walking, deluxe play yards, and onsite grooming. You can spend your whole vacation at the campground and never run out of fun!
RV Resort Customer Service
As you might expect, the level of customer service is amped up at an RV resort campground, alongside the campsites and amenities. It could even rival the experience found in luxury hotels. You might arrive to find fresh-baked cookies at check-in. Parking your rig is a breeze when you have a helpful assistant. There’s no need to trot your trash across the park to the dumpster, as RV resorts might offer curbside pickup. If you’re in a popular travel locale, you could even find shuttles to attractions and concierge services, offering luxury excursion bookings, theater tickets, and more.
RV Resort Food Options
RV resort campgrounds offer tempting dining options onsite that just might make you pass on the camp store ice cream. Start with pizza delivery and pancake breakfasts. Onsite snack bars and full-service restaurants are becoming increasingly common. Then, the penultimate experience might include tiki bars with full cocktail menus or coffee shops with locally roasted beans. Some RV resorts are incorporating these dining spots into the campground experience, with live music and scheduled socials.
Kid-Centered versus Adult-Centered RV Resorts
Some RV resorts cater to kids, while others cater to adults (and the very best appeal to both). Look for one that suits your tastes. Campgrounds like Jellystone Quarryville are kid heaven, while many RV resorts in retirement havens like Arizona and Florida offer amenities and relaxation aimed at adults. Then, there are places like Normandy Farms that have activities and amenities for all age groups. Just remember that the noise and energy level often match the audience the campground is attempting to attract, so don’t be surprised if the kid-oriented park seems rambunctious or the adult-oriented park bores your kids. With so many options, chances are, you’ll find your dream RV resort!
Costs
Of course, this full resort experience comes at a cost. You’ll definitely pay more than you would at a state or national park. You might even pay more than a standard private campground. Pricesper night will vary depending on location and amenities, but in general, you can expect to pay anywhere between $75 and $150.
Also, pay attention to whether extra amenities come at an extra cost. Some resorts charge for individual activities or provide activity wristbands for an additional fee. When considering the cost, realize that you will be spending most of your time onsite and probably not spending as much on area attractions. You can enjoy your whole vacation without ever stepping foot outside the park!
Booking
Since these RV resort campgrounds are becoming increasingly popular, booking early is necessary. Also, be sure to check rig restrictions. Some of the more high-end resorts have age restrictions, canvas restrictions, or only allow motorized RVs.
RV resort campgrounds take camping to a whole new level. Once you go resort, you might never go rustic again!
