By Gail Marsh
“Can you believe it?!” Robin searched the faces of folks gathered around the campfire. “It will cost me twenty dollars for the Florida campground to run a background check on me! Whoever heard of a ridiculous background check for camping!” Have you heard of RV parks performing background checks?
It was something new to my husband and me. But other folks around the fire acknowledged they’d also experienced this phenomenon during their travels. “It’s pretty common,” Jake said. “Especially if you plan to stay for an extended period of time.”
“I don’t blame campgrounds,” Mike added. “We’ve camped in places where I kinda’ wished they’d have run background checks on some of my neighbors!” He chuckled and indicated the three families who were caravanning with him.
The conversation got me thinking: When did campgrounds begin the practice of running background checks for potential campers? Why do campgrounds do it? Do campgrounds ever refuse folks based on the outcome of these checks? What kind of personal information must a camper provide for the check? How can I trust that my information will not be compromised?
When did RV parks begin background checks?
It’s hard to determine exactly when background checks for campers started. Most folks around the campfire estimated checks may have begun as early as ten years ago. “I remember the first time,” Mike noted. “I was surprised and, I’ll admit, a little offended, too. We wanted that RV park, so we paid for the background check.”
Who does this?
Robin’s frustration resurfaced. “This has never happened to me before. And the deal is, I’ve stayed at the same park for the past several years! Now, all of a sudden, they need to run a background check on me?! I still think it’s ridiculous!”
“It’s usually done for folks reserving an extended stay,” Mike explained. “Although I’ve seen it done for shorter visits, too.”
Other RVers agreed. Campgrounds in southern states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida often host RVers for months at a time. Even though I hadn’t personally witnessed the background check practice, others around the campfire agreed that checks weren’t that unusual for long-term stays.
Why do it?
RV parks are responsible for ensuring their guests’ safety. A background check can potentially save a park owner from heartache and potential lawsuits if folks get hurt or RVers’ property is damaged or stolen.
In addition, RV parks need to protect what they’ve worked so hard to build and maintain. Keeping the campground clean, safe, and welcoming is an important park responsibility.
I talked to a local RV park owner near my stix-n-brix home. Their policy states: “Our campground will not admit any person who may endanger a camper and/or property based on the results of a criminal background check.”
Another reason RV parks may require a background check has to do with eviction laws. In some states, people who reside in a place for 30 days are considered “tenants.” If a problem arises, the campground may have difficulty removing the problem camper from the campground. By taking a proactive step (the background check), park owners may reduce a high-risk liability from tenants who may prove problematic.
Folks around the campfire mentioned these factors, too. Then, Judy added, “The RV park where we winter started doing background checks because campers were lying about their age! It was an over-55 park. Can you imagine?” Sadly, yes, I can, Judy.
Turned away?
“I’m happy to have a background check run,” Sarah said. “I feel safer knowing that a check has been done on the people who camp near me and my children.”
Yes, applications for RV stays may be denied based on the results of a background check. Serious issues like felonies or child endangerment convictions will typically result in denial. If the check shows a problem fifteen years ago, and no issues since, the campground will take that into account, and decide on acceptance on a case-by-case basis. Also, if no convictions resulted from charges against the applicant, some campgrounds will admit the RVer.
What information does the RVer provide?
In most cases, a potential camper will provide full name, address, and contact information to the campground, along with verbal permission for them to run a background check. A quick online search should yield results with this basic information.
Who pays?
The RVer (that’s you!) will pick up the cost for a background check. Fees vary anywhere from $15 to $75 per person. Yipes!
What about Robin?
She’s decided to find a different campground for her upcoming stay. “I’ve got nothing to hide,” she admitted. “I just don’t want to pay for a ridiculous background check.”
How about you?
Have you ever encountered a campground that required a background check? Tell us about it in the comments below.
##RVT1099
Happened to us only once. We were staying at a campground that shared facilities with a children’s group. There was no cost to us and we didn’t mind having it done.
Never heard of it. I don’t stay at private places, however. I’d like to see a background check with information on people who break rules, leave barking dogs for hours, are obnoxious and loud, turn their kids loose on others, etc. I can’t imagine that happening, however. Many camp hosts don’t pay any attention. One time I was at a state campground where right behind me, some clowns had a big dog. Anyone knows a dog needs to be with his people. So, they tied it 50 feet away, and the dog barked and barked very loudly. This was also right behind camp hosts who said nothing to them and never came out of their trailers. I finally just left and forfeited my money. Even my own dog looked disgusted. Another time, people tied their little dog outside and left all day while it barked. People like that don’t care about others or even their own dog. Once I was next to people with seven barking dogs. None of this behavior shows up on a background check.
I have the camphosts talk to owners. In a NF campground a camper was told he could either take his dog with him when he left, stay in the camp with the dog or leave altogether. He left with his little ball of fur.
In Georgia, it’s against the law to tie up your dog. It’s not safe for your dog at all, as they could be attacked by another animal and have no ability to defend themselves.
A background check for staying at a campground. No. It’s an unnecessary infringement on privacy and the potential exists for misuse of your personal data. In todays MSM driven courts of public opinion world where folks are guilty until proven innocent, the last thing we need is to be denied the freedom of travel because of foolish a$$ covering policies used to free CG’s from culpability for things they should already be insured and responsible for. Why would anyone pay to give someone else a free pass from their obligations. Campgrounds already have rules, how about they actually enforce them.
I totally agree!
I would think that the background checks would only be ok for long-term tenants – the same as any landlord. There are a lot more people making an RV their full-time home these days than ever before.
We went to a planning commission meeting for a new 1200 site RV Resort adjacent to our neighborhood and along a very busy interstate. We were told that they would be running background checks and credit checks. The value of their RV has to be a minimum of $250K and the rate to stay there was going to be $200 per night with a 6 month max stay. They have a new amendment meeting coming up so it will be interesting!
The campground where we stay in the winter is starting to do it for those who stay a long period of time.. I find it interesting that this happens to campers but there’s easy access to anyone to the campground from the entrance, and in the back.
The park we were in was a gated community with security at the gate. The park also had its own cafeteria, when the cafeteria wasn’t making enough money from residents they opened the cafeteria to the public, there went the security of the park, I don’t regret leaving there, to many changes were going on in the name of more costs to the residents.
Yes, for a long term stay at a park in FL. I had no problem with the check or the fee. Seemed reasonable to me. However, the park had some questionable characters in it (some of whom were evicted and or had frequent visits form local law enforcement) so I’m not sure how well the background checks helped. Maybe they just charged the fee but didn’t really do the checks? Hmmmmm. We’ll never know…
This is nothing new. We were full time at an Arizona RV park for several years, in the early 2000’s. A background check was required.
No cost, maybe ok, but I will not pay for someone to poke into my privacy.
So, I’m not sure about a background check in whole. Another place that has your info? I know there are folks that could personally misuse info….were constantly being told about scams by AARP. Think of it this way, you stay in 3-4 parks during the year, 3-4 chances of info being used….just my thought
We were asked for the first time this year where we snowbird. At first I was against it but finally agreed. My only issue is that it was only for extended stays. Weekenders and other short term visitors were not required. And in some case’s definitely should have been
Sad story of modern life. Society seems to be going into the proverbial basket. Me, Me, Me. and the heck with you.
Park wanted $50 each to do a BG check if we stayed 30 days or more. We didn’t stay.
When we owned a campground, we admitted a guy for a 6 month stay that he had booked over the phone, but he came back up to the office 30 minutes after getting parked in his site to say he couldn’t stay. Why? Because he was a registered child molester and wasn’t allowed to be near a school, church or playground … and we had a large playground. So we gave him his money back and sent him on his way, thankful for the day we had that playground installed.
A background check at a campground for a long-term renter (30 days or more) is NO different than “Renting/Leasing” an apartment or home for 30 days or longer. At this point your rental is no longer a short-term rental which changes the legal requirements for the renter and property owner in a big way.
Smart move on the part of a park owner who tolerates long-term renters.
I wonder if you show a concealed carry permit (which requires a background check), if that would be acceptable. Or, if they are of ‘that mindset’, would refuse entry based on THAT.
Depends on if they believe in the 2nd amendment or not. In my previous post the park we lived in had a rule No Firearms allowed. DW and I are both licensed, as long as I’m not openly displaying they don’t know. I’m a firm believer in the saying “ I’d rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6”.
Sorry to say, but you can thank lawyers and sexual predators for this. 50 years ago there weren’t as many so society didn’t need a process.
Really you have to include politicians who made the law that medical professionals who have a patient who might be dangerous to society from informing the authorities of this person. Many times after a massive shooting or any other bad crime when the perp is killed it comes out that a Dr. knew this person could be a threat and were prevented from contacting the police about them. That law needs to be amended, it might save some lives. Yes I can see privacy laws advantages, but not at the expense of other lives.
There is a provision for medical professionals to report that a patient is recognized as an imminent danger to himself or others. It’s called a Tarasoff Warning. But not to be used against a patient who “might” be a danger.
There are multiple places where RV Parks are reviewed by campers. How about campgrounds developing a database listing problem customers. Joe A**hat camper may not show up on a background check but another campground could have him listed as a loud obnoxious idiot.
Wonder if the same thing could be done with incessantly barking dogs and their irresponsible, self righteous owners?
I doubt it, under the present regime it would be a violation of the barking dogs right to bark. Lol
I like it. I believe airlines have a “no fly” list.
I suspect this background check stuff is just another way to extract money from your wallet, another income stream, another junk fee.
I would agree to this only if they printed out the report and actually shared it with me. I want to see what they have.
A s*x offender check can be done for free.
https://www.nsopw.gov/
That only a check for s*x offenders.
I was in the laundromat business for over 30 years, and would love to have been able to weed out the bad customers before hand. I had a lot of headaches by people who I would prefer not to have been my customers, and lost customers because of those problems. To me those that yell ‘protect my privacy’ and all that jazz, probably have the most to hide. Background checks are a normal and acceptable practice in many aspect of our lives. Once they have a bad experience because of someone who probably shouldn’t have been there, then they may change their tune – though I suspect they would reply ‘My gun is the only protection I need.’ – Scary. I’m all about protecting my family, and if the ‘bad ones’ can be weeded out early, then I have less to worry about.
I have my protection also but I prefer not to use it unless me or my family is threatened, so yes I’d prefer not to be in a place where a threat is probable or possible. I definitely prefer the bad ones are prevented from being there.
I also carry my protection, and hope I never need to use it, although I’ve had one close call by someone who appeared to be on drugs. I won’t go to States where I can’t protect myself. There are more nut cases everywhere. I’ve had many background checks in the military, by my employers, and for my carry permit. I support campground owners requiring a check for anyone camping for more than a week.
Puh-leeze. These are not overnighters, but folks staying for months at a time. They are not ‘camping’, they are tenants. Of course you would run background checks on tenants.
I have never had a background check done for a campsite. Nor would I pay for one at a campsite. I only camp at state parks. Seems like every thing is a gimmick to steal your money.
Our background check was included in the rent, most probably are included in the deposit.
Totally against it for short stay rentals or pre-existing relationship (like robin in the story, who had already stayed there for several years). Now for long-term rentals, I’m a little more on the fence. Maybe. But most places, I think, require a security deposit and that should be sufficient.
Good way to keep the dirtbags out!
Just wow, really? doesn’t surprise me though, just another way to get more money for someone to line their pockets! I’m on my second long term stay, 12 month lease at an rv resort here in Houston with no background checks!
15 months ago we decided to buy a park model in a RV park in central FL. The first thing we had to do was fill out the background check form, we found that this is done for anyone staying more than a week. A year later it turns out our next door neighbor is in prison for running someone off the road and threatening them with a gun. He will no longer be a resident(his father and step mother were among the first residents back in the ‘70s) he definitely has some mental problems. Since, we have moved back to TN and quite relieved not to be his neighbor. So I can definitely see the benefit of background checks, and so should anyone else. Yes originally I was offended, I’ve not had a speeding ticket in 58 years, but anymore you don’t know who you’re living beside. Our previous neighbor could’ve threatened us at any time.
An EXCELLENT idea. My wife and I, having lived in Washington State for over 23 years, and Georgia prior, never experienced it personally, but wished we had! I could write a book about how many times I wish that practice had been emplaced. We went to one park and heard a park ranger talking to an individual and heard him say “I see you have a warrant for your arrest in California, but your not in California so I’m NOT going to arrest you! Just stop by the station in the morning and both register and pay for the spot. I’m willing to bet neither occurred. Too much hassle and paperwork maybe? Granted we DON’T know what the warrant was about but should THEY make a difference?
Many campgrounds are becoming homeless encampments. Drugs and literal slobs staying next to nice paying families with children. DON’T say it’s the parks and rangers trees responsibility because thats hypocritical. That’s what they’re trying to do with this practice. Let families feel safe for a short period of time.
Never knowingly had a background check done to stay at a campground or an RV park. But we also have never stayed in either for as long as two weeks. We have stayed as much as 11 or 12 consecutive nights but always were charged the nightly rate at that particular campground (Pohick Bay Regional Park in Lorton, Virginia).
I’d agree with a background check only if I could see the results of it. First, is it really done or a way to get extra money and secondly is it accurate? Like a credit check, mistakes are made and are they ever questioned?
Are two, or more, needed? Husband and wife, say, or partners. I really don’t see the need for a couple day stay.
This so much this. Background checks are not good for people with similar names and dob. What is the appeal process and process for correcting inaccurate info?
The park we have spent the past 6 winters (and our larger RV remains year-round) was sold last year. The new owner required we similar long-term customers agree to background checks – in our case there was no fee and have no idea if the checks were actually done; but there is a fee for new longer-stay RVers. A background check can consist of two parts – behavioral and financial.
The behavioral part will typically only look at public records.No real secrets there. Hiring a researcher without a court’s blessing to look at non-public records could potentially be a crime in itself, and also very expensive.
The financial part will look at credit reports. Do you have a cellular phone plan? You gave permission to pull a credit report. This is a pretty common practice these days to see if you pay your debts.
What exactly constitutes a background check? I don’t want an inquiry showing on my credit report as that lowers your score. I don’t mind if they check my criminal or rental history as I have none, but what happens if they turn up someone with the same name? I once spent 2 years trying to get a tax lien resolved – it was taken in a different county on someone with a similar name who lived at a different address than me, but that didn’t make a difference!
Just bought a generator. Done with RV sites. Live in Alaska and didn’t buy trailer to sit in a parking lot with 50 other trailers anyway. So I’ll take a hard pass. Bye.
My husband and I were full-time traveling RVers for two years until he passed away in 2017. Mostly traveled in the west from SD to AZ, and out to FL. Background checks never came up, even in the resorts where we stayed for a month or three.
Your data is NOT safe with RV parks. How will you feel when 10 days later your bank account is emptied? Or someone bought a vehicle in your name at a scrubby discount lot in Miami? You’ll only discover the purchase when you are sued for an automobile accident 10 states away.
I’ve never quite understood how my bank account is going to be ’emptied.’ I get text messages for all significant withdrawals.
It can happen when enough information is collected thieves are pretty ingenious, asking for medical records? That’s a HIPA violation, giving your Bank info is so dangerous regardless if you get alerts! One of my cards the Chip was read remotely by someone in Quartzsite AZ they managed to get good chunk of money before I received any alerts! If this is how they live trust me they know how to manipulate it .
If you have a name, address and city, anybody can pretty much run a check on a person thru the county clerk records…civil or criminal….used to be part of my ‘job’
……and it does not cost a dime…..
back in the late 90’s we were on an extended trip thru the south and southwest. we dropped anchor just outside of Houston for a week’s stay. we took an exploratory drive thru the area a day or so later and ran across a private RV park with beautiful campsites on a bluff overlooking a lake. we stopped at the office and asked for information about the park. we were given the usual campground map plus a 12-page application. they wanted the usual name, address, phone number plus bank and credit card account numbers, balances, personal and professional references, medical histories and so on. needless to say we declined their invitation.
in the early spring of 2021. my BIL had passed away in March and we were tasked with cleaning up his affairs, clearing and selling his residence, car, etc. We expected to be away from home for 3-5 months (BIL was in CA, we are in IL). we found two parks that were within 30-min of his home so I called both to see about a long-term reservation. the first park emailed a multi-page application…personal info, bank and credit card info, medical history. they wanted. non-refundable $35 for a criminal history background check. I would’ve declined but we needed a spot. the second park took my name, address, phone number and email address and said they’d call back. both parks knew our situation and our need for a long-term space. I never heard back from park #1 but park #2 called the next day and confirmed our reservation “for as long as we would need it”. That park was the Coyote Valley RV Resort near San Jose CA. they were a lifesaver, can’t say enough good things about them.
When you rent an apartment you have to have a background check. We full timed from 2005 to 2021. We would stay 3 to 6 months at some places. I always felt more comfortable knowing everybody in the long stay area had to have a background check. Never caused a bit of credit problems for me sometimes the park paid and sometimes we paid but it was never more than $25. The first time I had to have one I balked and was told the story of a rv meth lab blowing up a camper. I cheerfully signed on the bottom line and googled the incident and it was true. This is a safety policy one which is more effective than a camper has to be younger than 10 years of age
Do you know if a person with a good background check could be a first time offender?
I can understand a Campground owner wanting more information about a client that is going to stay 3 months or more, but not for one night or 2 to 3 weeks. Besides, how do I know that a person working for the campground is not a thief and may use this information for dubious means. If they are going to begin asking this for all campers, then they should provide a Liability Policy, at time of payment, stating that the park will be responsible for any criminal activity caused by one of their employees. And provide proof that all of their employees have passed background checks. With some of the people I have seen working at some of these parks, I am sometimes worried about their competence and honesty.
One RV park we stayed at required the background check if you stayed beyond 28 days. The legal status of the relationship between the tenant and the park changed then. The local Landlord-Tenant Act cut in and the responsibilities and rights of each party changed.
I recently had a seasonal, winter job in an RV office and anyone wanting to stay past a certain time (I think 6 months) had to have a background check. Although I was not part of that process, I did see files where people were denied due to past crimes like domestic violence and assault, and I’m glad of that. Also it is very expensive and tiresome to evict people for non payment so if they had really bad credit, they were denied as well. It is $50 pp and I didn’t mind paying it because I know they are trying to keep it a safe and clean environment.
Everyone wants all the info they can get anymore because it can be sold so many ways. If someone wants to do a background check on me, I will require that they provide me a copy of the results. I will require a statement from them that my info will not be sold or provided to any 3rd parties, if they are, I will have the right to sue. No more unwanted ads for hearing aids or Viagra. These agreements have to be a two way street because it’ll get out of hand if we don’t stand our ground. If I go to a website that requires cookies, I simply leave. Probably do the same if they want a background check. Sick and tired of being “marketed to” for crap I don’t want or need!
I don’t know of websites that require cookies, but they are now required to ask you if you accept them. Pretty tough to be on the web and not see ads.
I don’t have a problem with the idea of background checks per se, especially for extended stays. No different than renting an apartment. My problem is with making the camper or tenant pay for it. The landlord has a right to protect their property and screen prospective tenants, but should consider the expense part of the cost of doing business, just like the cost of landscaping or maintenance. It’s ust another opportunity to boost profits – I’m guessing they have a contract with the screening service and their actual cost per check is much less than what they are charging applicants.
100% agree with you. It is a dirty business.
So you then are saying a short term Child Molester camping for a week its ok you don’t need to do a check on them?
Think about it *******.
So you then are saying a short term Child Molester camping for a week its ok you don’t need to do a check on them?
Think about it *******.
I would tell them to feel free to get in touch with Thousand Trails that ran one on both my husband d and myself when we became annuals at their one park in Va. I would not pay an extra amount for them to check us out. Plenty of other campgrounds to stay at.
Background checks? I have no problem with them if they will produce copies of checks done the employees of the campground ! I stayed @ a campground in central FL. & witnessed the park manager sell drugs to se real people & the maintenance woman ( who identifies as a male) got up in the face of a lady with a baby in her & attempted to assault her, fortunately the lady was able to get away from her & file a police report. The lady & her family was then evicted from the park after they had already paid for 6 mo. The.employee was completely wrong for her actions. They also had a resident hooker who was friends with the manager, I’d like to see her background check.
Makes sense to me. Don’t background check anyone staying less than a month but force it on people staying longer. Everyone knows that the bad behavior people and the potential thieves never stay at a campground for less than a month. SMH.
Agree. Only the innocent people get hurt both financially while the criminal would laugh at us all.
So you willing to pay $50 for your own background check so you can camp at a campground? Doesn’t make any sense.
YES or NO?
I have no problem with a CRIMINAL records check. Use that consent for any other purpose and I definitely would have a problem with that.
Please pay $50 for us to do it. Thank you. lol
My wife and I had to agree to background checks after we had registered and checked into a Florida campground at $40.00 ea. We had a 3 month stay already a month in. In the meantime they allowed shorter term renters in with no background check. Do they think only longer renters might be criminal? Puzzling to me.
I think main media brainwashed many business practices whiles the real criminal get away nowadays and the innocent people will get hurt the most.
Agree with you.
Ditto
Booking at Parks needs to be streamlined, or maybe I am not doing it right. I book hotels using Priceline. Is there anything like that that allows you to see availability and price in an area?
We had to have a background check in Logan, UT to get the monthly rate for a single month. Something about them having had a long term tenant that was a child molester and they didn’t know, so if one wants to stay a month or more they are required. But like was already mentioned, anyone can have a criminal background so if one person gets checked everyone should get checked.
I don’t think this is necessary, and it definitely is an extra financial burden on us.
I get having a background check if you had a sex offender or something like that. But giving up extra information is not required nor does it cost any money or should it. You have to put a certain amount of information on the application to stay anyways, and nobody should ever have to pay for a sex offender background check because that is free. I would never give up anything more than my name and address because that’s on the application anyways. However, I would agree to it if you are a long-term tenant. But I would always still be very wary of who is collecting this information and what are their qualifications. As another commenter said, in some places it is the campers who were running the place. And if you want to give them your information that’s on you. I’ll never do it.
Some thoughts come to mind…
Are these parks aware of, and adequately adhere to, laws concerning the safeguarding of Personally Indentifying Information? You know, the info required to perform a background check? Landlords follow the same laws as well. It does vary from state to state, but I do wonder if these parks are aware of and abide by them…
What about the person handling your sensitive information? Have they had a verifiable federal background check? If the person handling the info is your sister’s girlfriends brother Jerry Lee, then you can keep your park I’ll find another where dueling banjos aren’t playing over the loudspeaker thank you very much!
They can’t do a background check without your social security number! Not a proper one ! This is a dangerous situation, parks having this information can be very harmful to anyone! A better solution is needed without handing over your SSI number! Most people don’t realize that number was never intended to be an identification it was only for SS retirement, if a new system would be out in place that can’t be used to steal your identity or track you this would eliminate most of these risks. In a lot of circumstances you can refuse to provide your SS number to company’s like cable tv under law but they can charge you a deposit instead. Seriously that number should be locked away until it’s real purpose is needed by the SS administration or the IRS . I don’t think it was meant for the IRS either but you can’t change that now. And people lying about their age to get into a 55+ RV park? And ID is all you need to prove that. Not a background check!!!
Most RV parks in Oregon does a back ground check
For everyone and who pays for it?
Most meaning 1 or 2 . lol
Want a little cheese with your “whine”?
Says the real bent one
I belong to 2 camping companies. One does background checks with annual stays and makes the members pays. It should be the campground pay the fee if they want the background check done not the members. We pay enough for them. And the one campground membership I have really needs to look at their staff and everyone they let in. Most of the staff are campers
Finally, some truth.
Yes if you live at a campground for a year I totally agree.
Thank you Michelle.
Writer made it sound like all campgrounds do it any time they want.
Long term camping yes.
I have not been asked for one yet but if it is a requirement to stay long term I would likely do it. I have a spotless record so nothing to hide. Short term though I would move on.
So you are willing to pay for your own background check.
You have to be so lame to pay yourself.
Okay, make the campground pay and watch them raise rates. Smh
This is going to continue till the 1st news story “Campground declares bankruptcy. Closes after violation of federal state laws on housing discrimination. ”
This will happen. I’ve talked with campground owners/managers, they had no clue that using a background check meant they could be liable for massive lawsuits.
To be clear, they can be used. However they need to follow the same standard as if renting an apartment out. Also the fact they’re not running on nightly/weekly stays may mean running on monthly/longer only could be a problem.
Lastly, discrimination doesn’t need be the intended effect to lose lawsuit. Just having that effect, albeit unintended, is enough to lose.
Agree. Campground loses and Camper finds a better realistic Campground.
Well thanks for letting us know you and a few others on this thread would be the trouble makers. Lol also it is lawful to request and perform background checks on “long term” rvers and campers. It’s private property! There is no discrimination. The owners are protecting the rvers and their families.
We have been full time campers for ten years, and have never had a background check done. During the ten years we have witnessed two occasions that park management has called the police and had campers removed from the park. We have several national memberships, now whether that helps, I don’t know.
I’m from Ontario Canada and have camped in many parks in the USA without having a background check. I am a retired CSI police officer and a Sheriff for the Ministry of the Attorney General in the Province of Ontario I don’t think I would have any problem with a campground running a background check on me but don’t think I should have to be liable to pay. I’m 76 years old.
Agreed. It’s robbery
Robbery is taking money by force from someone, so when a campground asks you for money to do a background check, a service they have to pay for, in order for you to be criminally or financially vetted in order to stay at THEIR property for an extended period of time is a mutual agreement. Unless they put a gun to your head and said “Pay me money for this background check and stay here if I approve you!”-then THAT is robbery.
$15 to $75 for a background check? Been verified and others won’t charge that a month… unlimited checks. Robbers! Thieves!
Been verified can’t be used for this type thing. When you run a check it even points out what are unacceptable uses.
Regardless, $15-$30 is the norm, $75 is high. I’ve only seen $75 once. Also for that service, the $75 was good for 5 years of approvals (they reran actual report every 6 months to update) with any company that used them.
Note the campground shouldn’t be getting any information back. They should only be getting an approval/ disapproval to rent space by background check company. A company getting actual information back and deciding on their own to approve/disapprove, can get in serious legal trouble just for seeing that information. Ie seeing information that can’t be legally considered, makes it easy to say it was considered. Also it can be illegal just for the campground to know about. Ie a report states you’re a Black, Non-Hispanic and originally from Egypt. In some locations just having that information recorded can be illegal.
My wife and I just paid $100 for a background check for a seasonal site.
There is no RV park I want to be in for $100 background check.
I am in a RV park in Prosser, WA until May 1st. My paper stated a $35 fee for a background may be charged. I don’t see it on the invoice and not sure when and if they will begin the charge but its there. I’m trying for a hosting position but in the meantime, I need to move to another park (this one is full for May), and each is telling me I have to pay this fee before they can run it and then let me know if they can accommodate me for a month. I had one do this and then say they booked up and can’t do the monthly. Book me, run the background and I have a spot when it clears. Not the opposite. That gets too pricey.
So glad I own my own piece of beautiful land in the Southwest that I can camp in my RV for as long as I want, and not deal with any of this BS.
I dont mind background checks that’s a bit more secure, last year we had an incident when a rver tried to enter our travel trailer and we cought him we confronted the person I honestly do believe he was a pedophile or sex offender we have small children and this was scary now I have to carry a gun at all times for our safety.
We are year round campers and if you want a background check as long as you are paying check all you want. I may pay for 1 a year but if you want it checked more often then it’s not coming out of my budget. If I haven’t broken the law at my age then I don’t see it happening.
I have refused all background checks to stay at a RV Park. If the park requires a background check I vote with my feet and wallet. I was IT security for too many years to give information to people who don’t need it. The best way to keep a secret is to tell no one. The information to run a background check name, address, ID, social security number, etc, is the information for identity theft too. There has been too many data breaches for me to give away information to people who don’t need it. I will find someplace else to stay.
By the way I don’t give my social security number to medical providers either. I have received letters from hospitals, doctor’s offices, and insurance companies apologizing for the latest data breach. Apologies don’t protect stolen data. Don’t give information to people who don’t need it, just walk away. If enough people refuse to give away unnecessary information and patronize the competition, perhaps policies will change because of lost business.
People who think like you and I do are in the minority, it seems. Look at the comments out here. People willingly hand over all their personal information and their money to essentially go camping, because it keeps “the pedophiles and gun-toting meth heads” away. That’s utter nonsense. Actual criminals are not often identified on background checks, because they have no record. People who went to prison 15 years ago for a DUI are not going to attack a family in a campground. People are perfectly happy giving up all of their privacy for an illusion of safety, and campgrounds & RV parks are more than happy to get your info and your money. Pathetic.
Yeah Florida does background checks on RVs but they won’t do background checks on people buying guns. DeSantis has to get his priorities straight.
Please try to read what you write as you sadly sound very angry and not knowledgeable in this statement. One desantis isn’t doing this as it is up to individual rv parks from what I can find. Two people do have to get a background check to buy a firearm so either you aren’t able to or have never purchased a firearm. Three please try to sound a bit more courteous as you really do come off as uneducated in the topic and also very angry at the same time. Now to the article at hand for long term stays I can understand a background check to keep a place safe and clean in today’s environment. I would agree generally that short term camping is a bit of a stretch however depending on where you are camping they may have a problem with certain issues in the area which makes this a necessity for the owners. Anyways have a good night and please keep in mind this is a constructive criticism!
Might I suggest you do a little research after you read some post spewing false information. Background checks for firearms are required by federal law in all 50 states. There are additional requirements in FL as well.
https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/FPP/FAQs2.aspx
EVERY legal firearms dealer or ffl transfer point in the country, performs a federal background check when selling or transferring firearms. It’s a Federal law.
I can see why in some instances. Most places that rent apartments or homes ask for one and jobs, gun permits and etc.
I have had to do background checks for monthly stays at more than one park, as long ago as 2016. I don’t think it’s entirely uncommon for longer term stays. For a few days, it would be weird.
Presently we are in a northan CA RV park for a four month stay. I would not consider this a “resort” or “beautiful view” type of RV park. The management is nice, the park is clean. A pool, propane, and good laundry facilitys available. The neighbors are nice, It’s quiet, away from town, a farming/cherry orchard setting. This is an extended stay only park, three month minimum. A finacial statement and a one months rent as security deposit was required. It took about 4-5 days before we qualified to stay. Water, elec, and sewer hook up are added to the monthly rental. The park is full. A waiting list is available.
Options in this area are limited. We consider ourselves fortunate to be here, close to work and a major metropolitan city. We feel a deposit, financial statement, and a background check, are all within reason.
We are having our first background check for the place we are staying next winter. I think it’s a good idea as we will be there for at least 3 months
It keeps out the meth heads & dealers. Believe me, it’s a problem.
No I have never experienced background checks in the 40+ years I’ve been camping but I
don’t do extended camping. I think it makes a lot of sense to keep RV parks or campgrounds safe. I have been to campground where fulltime or extended campers totally trash the place.
I’m a extended camper and found that the short term people trash the park way more. Even with background checks.
Yes, when staying for more than one month, we had to pay for a background check. This happened in central Florida and also in N Carolina.
It kinda makes sense, especially traveling with children. But, if the main reason for performing the checks is to protect the RV parks and not the camper, then the parks need to pay for the check, not the camper!
Those states mentioned have limited gun laws. I didn’t think RV parks did this but it’s good especially if you have snow birds with children. Don’t want pedophiles around the children. Also need to weed out illegal gun toting trouble makers. I’d pay for the background check.
RVer doesn’t always pay. Our RV park in Tx. paid for ours. Always & never are words to use carefully.
Most campgrounds we have went to over 30 days you get checked they may even run a credit check I personally understand that it’s a business and they wanna. Make sure that they’re grounds and safety of everybody and they want to make sure they get paid if you’re offended by this just think facial recognition in. Walmart at the grocery store in fast food places. Everywhere you look you’re being watched they’re searching who you are that’s the life we live in
1984 is here.
Here’s an idea – charge an amount for the background check. If it comes back negative, apply it toward their stay. If negative, refuse the camper and keep the fee.
My wife and I have been traveling across the country for 8 years and never been required to have a background check performed. If this is going to be a requirement in the future they should set something up so you get a background check done the receive a card good for day a year.
We’ve been RV’ing for the past 6 years, mostly in the Northeast and our longest stay is typically a week. My concern with these background checks are the storage of personal information that if mishandled can lead to identity theft. How long are they maintaining these records? Who has access to them? We don’t really plan to do extended stays, however in a couple years we plan to travel more, staying a couple weeks at each location if we are enjoying ourselves. Until I see some formal guidelines or laws on this I won’t be staying in a place that is doing these checks. Haven’t had to do any yet…
A past “conviction” is a VERY poor indicator of a problem camper. Many of the most horrendous crimes have the least recidivism rates, meaning, statistically, you’d be more likely to have trouble from someone without a “record”.
If a campground chooses to run a background check on potential guests, that’s totally up to them. However, call it what it is: Butt Coverage, and little more.
I have been getting background checks for years because I was a long term snowbird once upon a time in Texas and Florida. And yes, I had to pay for it. But the issue that bothered me more was that some parks also want your photos of RV, drivers license copy, and a credit check run, and yes, you pay for that as well. Not a new concept, just maybe caught up with some of you.
I am a tenant in a rv/ mobile home park for a year, my son moved in with me, park was bought by another company. Asked for new lease told no need. After 7 months they wanted a back ground check on my son after telling the manager he did have old history of felonies, failed back ground check had to leave, now not allowed first to spend night, now not to even visit me. This is my residence. Planned to be here as my neighbors have for 7-17 years. Now I receive an eviction notice. Based upon a past associate of my son visiting the manager. Past associate visits other campers and mobile homes in park. I keep my area clean, pay rent early, Don’t cause any problems. Is it legal for them to evict a tenant for this? I need advice.
If you need legal advice, contact a lawyer. Don’t rely on “some guy” on the internet – including me.
My comment regards the background check. I was denied access to a park due to a DUI and a separate disturbance over 9 years ago. I am happy to say that I have been sober since. They called me to say I was a risk they wouldn’t allow. I was shocked as it’s actually a camp that is clearly “Christian”. I explained the situation and she actually got a few things wrong on the report. These were misdemeanors. I helpless and embarrassed, when I really should be proud of these last 9 years.
Yes, you certainly should be proud of the last 9 years, Mary. Congratulations! That campground should not have judged you so harshly and inaccurately. Good luck, and don’t give up just because of someone else’s mistake. Take care. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com
We are full timers for over 11 years and this year is our first time hearing about asking for a background check for staying on a site. We refuse to give them any other information, such as Social Security info, just to stay at a park. Background checks don’t always tell you the bad from the good. I’m not going to keep paying for these checks when traveling either. If the parks want the info, they should be paying for it.
Maybe we should do background checks on campground owners.
I agree if the park wants YOUR background check, they should provide you with theirs. Does that mean they are any better than us? Absolutely NOT. They may be just as crooked as others!
Yes, we have experienced having to submit to background checks once. Not having too many options and having to be in a certain area for an extended period of time, we complied and paid ($20-$30 each). We agreed it seemed like a good practice and could make the RV Park safer and cleaner. Needless to say, after being there a little while we wondered if the Park ran background checks on everyone or if it was a $$ grab.
And did it make the park safer?
We’ve never heard of this and never ran into it over the many years using our RV. I could possibly understand it for extended stays and seasonals. Reminds me of living in an HOA community, where the HOA has to approve your application before you can close on a home, condo, etc….
I wouldn’t pay or stay at a campground that requires a background check. Do they require a SSN and what happens when the information is compromised?
Yes! I tried to contest providing mine, but was informed that a social security number was required for them to perform a background check.
Yeah, when the info is released not if. It always does
This is another way for your private information to be compromised and fall into the wrong hands.
Probably 12 years ago, we stayed at a campground that was also home to a children’s camp that used some of the same facilities like the pool. We were required to have a background check at no cost to us, and we did so with no bad feelings on our part.
We now work at a campground that is family oriented, and does not require a background check. However, after working on the “other side of the desk”, I can understand why some campgrounds may want to do that. I wouldn’t like having to pay for a background check, but if I really wanted to stay there, I’m sure I would.
This is an AI generated article, IMHO
Hi, Ken. Your humble opinion is incorrect. That was written more than a year ago, before any of us at RVtravel.com had even heard of A.I. It was written by Gail after she and some fellow RVers had their chat around the campfire one night, just as she mentioned. Have a good afternoon. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com
I have read most of the posts. Most seem to be OK with the checks for long term stays, comparing it to apartment rentals. The issue with that is that in an apartment building, EVERYONE in the building has gone through the same check. There are no “short term tenants”! For that reason alone the checks for “long term stays” are ineffective for “keeping the campground and guests safe”! That is of course, unless the long-term campers are completely separate and inaccessible to the short-term/no-check campers. As far as the cost, if the check is an absolute, then just roll it into the overall cost. Campground owners will get their $$ and the guest won’t consider it an added expense.
Pretty simple for me. I’d go elsewhere. I don’t stay anywhere for more than a couple of days, maybe 5 at the most. Yes, there are pros and cons to background checks.
Having spent 23 years in the US Coast Guard, carrying a top secret clearance, I had regular DEEP, DEEP background checks. When I signed on as a volunteer firefighter/HAZMAT responder, I had deep background checks. When I became a substitute school teacher, I had deep background checks. But for camping, I’m going to opt out.
I don’t want to stay with people who assume I’m a criminal, who refuse to allow older units, or any other “elitist” policies. It’s bad enough the costs have gotten so high, but this just adds insults to injuries.
nobody is assuming you are a criminal. But there are some very pleasant deadbeats in the world. As a former bank executive I’ve met several people who truly believe they will be wonderful customers, but don’t have a clue how to manage their money. And no, I am not assuming that you are one
The background check is not just for public record criminal issues, but also economic issues. Generally a background check firm will pull credit reports for credit score, collections issues, etc. They will also read any comments that the applicant has placed in their file. And yes, the background check will look in public records for convictions, and unpaid civil fines or liens. This is more typical for long-term stays (month or greater)
And this isn’t just RVers. Renters will typically find the same requirement as well as anyone who leases a car, and so on.
Not at hotels, gimme a break
Under no circumstances will I pay or participate in a background check to camp.
Luckily there are a lot of options and I can spend my money at locations that are reasonable.
What I see here is just another way to make money. And also it presents a problem with some unknown person or persons having my private info. I’m sure they will tell you once you’re ok’d we shred your info. Sure, but it’s still in the computer file. Then if an incident happens at said campground even if you’re not involved the local pd calls everybody to get statements. Just another thing to deal with.
So if I have an overdue credit card I’m banned. Gee, don’t have to do this at motel 6
A lot of this gets started because someone got hurt and sued the campground owner, claiming the owner was at fault for renting to somebody. To avoid this they now run checks to screen out the obvious ones. Plus it gives them some defense for future lawsuits.
Why can’t they just check a drivers license for age?