Expert Advice
8 Tips for RV Resort Camping
Discover essential RVing tips for your next RV resort stay. From pools and full hookups to family-friendly amenities, learn how to make the most of your RV vacation.
RV resorts offer some of the most luxurious, amenity-rich camping experiences in the country. In this episode of Let’s Go Camping with Go RVing, Jeremy Puglisi, host of The RV Atlas Podcast, shares his best advice for making the most of your stay at one of these destination-style campgrounds. Filmed at Moose Hillock Camping Resort in Lake George, New York—one of Jeremy's favorite RV resorts—this episode is packed with practical tips for travelers who want a relaxing, fun-filled vacation without ever leaving the campground.
Whether you're new to RVing or simply new to resort-style camping, these eight tips will help you prepare for your next RV resort adventure.
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1. Chill and Enjoy the Campground
One of the biggest advantages of RV resort camping is that you don't have to leave the property to have a great time. RV resorts are destinations in themselves, complete with pools, playgrounds, entertainment, and often even dining options. Jeremy recommends resisting the urge to over-plan and instead embrace a slower pace. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, attending an evening movie night, or letting the kids explore the playground, simply relaxing at the resort can make for a perfect vacation.
2. Embrace Your Inner Athlete
RV resorts often come with full-size basketball courts, volleyball courts, tennis courts, and more. For families with teenagers or energetic kids, these built-in sports amenities are a huge perk. Don’t forget to bring your favorite gear, like basketballs or tennis rackets, so your crew can make the most of the facilities. Jeremy notes that his boys love spending hours on the basketball court while staying at Moose Hillock—a reminder that these sports areas are a big part of the fun.
3. Pack Extra Swimsuits and Quick-Dry Towels
Resort-style pools, water slides, and splash pads are often the centerpiece of an RV resort experience. Jeremy’s advice? Bring multiple swimsuits for each person in the family and plenty of quick-dry towels. With multiple swims a day, it helps to have backups on hand, and quick-dry towels cut down on the damp clutter inside your RV. Don’t forget your pool shoes, sunscreen, and maybe even a water-resistant bag for heading to and from the water features.
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4. Choose the Right Campsite for Your Preferences
Campground layout can have a big impact on your overall experience. If your family likes to be in the center of the action, look for campsites close to pools, playgrounds, or the camp store. These sites tend to be more social and lively. On the other hand, if you value peace and quiet, ask for a site further away from high-traffic areas. Jeremy points out that this simple decision can make a big difference depending on your travel style.
5. Rent a Golf Cart at Large Resorts
Many RV resorts are expansive, and walking to amenities like the pool or bathhouse can be a trek—especially if you’re traveling with young kids. Renting a golf cart can be a game-changer, offering convenience and a little extra fun as you cruise around the resort. Jeremy calls it a "special treat" for his family and something they look forward to when visiting larger properties.
6. Enjoy On-Site Dining Options
If you’ve had a long week or just want a break from cooking, many RV resorts offer on-site cafes, grills, or snack shacks where you can grab a quick meal or treat. Whether it’s a burger by the pool or pizza night back at your site, these dining options can add an extra layer of relaxation to your trip. Jeremy, an avid camp cook, admits that even he loves letting someone else do the cooking now and then when staying at a resort-style campground.
7. Prepare for Full Hookup Sites
One of the perks of RV resorts is full hookups—electric, water, and sewer connections at your site. Make sure you bring all the right equipment, including a drinking water-safe hose, a reliable sewer hose, and the appropriate 30 or 50 amp power cord based on your RV's requirements. Jeremy notes that while earlier episodes of Let’s Go Camping featured off-grid trips, resort camping means enjoying the convenience of plugging in and powering up with ease.
8. Treat Yourself with a Special Upgrade
Many RV resorts offer premium add-ons to elevate your stay even more. From private hot tubs delivered to your site to cabana rentals by the pool, these extras can turn a great camping trip into an unforgettable one. At Moose Hillock, Jeremy highlights the poolside cabanas as a fun and relaxing way to take your vacation up a notch. If you're celebrating something special—or just want to splurge—these upgrades are worth considering.
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Why RV Resort Camping Is Worth the Splurge
RV resort camping offers the best of both worlds: the comfort of your own RV and the amenities of a high-end vacation resort. Whether you're lounging poolside, playing pickup basketball with the kids, or rolling up to the camp store in a golf cart, these campgrounds make it easy to relax and reconnect with your travel crew.
For families, the wide range of activities means that everyone stays entertained without having to leave the property. For couples, the full hookups and upgraded amenities offer a peaceful retreat. And for new RV owners, resorts are a great introduction to the camping lifestyle with plenty of support and creature comforts.
To learn more about all the ways to RV and to start planning your next adventure, check out the rest of the videos in Let’s Go Camping with Go RVing.
