RV park roulette: when every loop feels like a lifetime
You know that moment—when you pull into a campground, see the map, smile politely at the gate host who tells you to “just find an open spot,” and think: This will be easy.
Forty-seven minutes later, your smile is gone, your passenger has cycled through three emotions, your dog is pacing in the back, and your rig has squeezed through enough narrow turns to qualify for a CDL exam.
The Art (and Agony) of Site Hunting
Open site systems sound good in theory. In practice? They’re a full-body workout for your patience. Maybe the view is amazing but the site isn’t level. Maybe it’s perfectly level, but the neighbors are practicing bagpipes. Maybe it’s close to the bathhouse, which seems great… until you realize it’s really close.
You circle. You debate. You second-guess. And then, usually after 12 loops and one three-point turn next to the dumpsters, you settle into a site that’s good enough.
Tips to Make It Less Miserable
If you're not into turning your afternoon into an amateur site-scouting Olympics, try this:
1. Ask the Locals
Before you start hunting, ask the ranger or camp host for tips. They often know which sites have the best shade, are most level, or get great sunset views.
2. Drive-Through vs Walk-Through
If your rig is small enough, walk the loop before driving it. If your rig is not small enough, do yourself a favor—unhook the toad or trailer and explore with just the tow vehicle.
3. Know Thy Leveling Tolerance
Some folks are happy with a 2-degree tilt. Others break out the bubble level and six blocks. Know what you’ll put up with and use that to narrow your choices fast.
4. Consider the Exit
That perfect spot may come at the cost of a nightmare departure. Always check your escape path before you back in.
But When You Nail It…
Every once in a while, you score the site.
Flat, shaded, fire ring perfectly placed, view of the lake, and no neighbors playing cornhole at 11 p.m. You set the jacks, pull out the chairs, and realize—it was worth the loops, the stress, and the wild U-turn you had to make to get here.
Finding the perfect RV site isn’t just about location. It’s about knowing what matters most to you. Quiet? Shade? Close to the playground? Room for your awning? Once you figure out your must-haves, the whole circling thing becomes a little less chaotic—and sometimes even kind of fun.
Kind of.
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