It feels like campground prices have hit an all-time high. We are traveling from Arizona to Minnesota and staying almost exclusively at private RV park campgrounds. Not by choice, but because I was too wishy-washy on travel plans and didn’t book the now-sold-out state and COE parks early enough.
We have traveled similar routes from Arizona to Minnesota over the last eight years and I have come to expect higher campground prices near National Parks and major cities, but not this! The major chains are running around $70+ a night, not including the add-ons of state tax, county tax, town tax and lodging tax. These are the corporate buyouts, remodels and new builds. A few are even using booking software similar to hotels that upcharge as the park gets fuller. Don’t procrastinate—the price goes up daily.
Mom and Pop spots have caught on too. What was once $25 to $35 a night two or three years ago is now $55 to $60. I was overjoyed when we camped for four days near a National Park for $45 a night. However, when our assigned site was too small to put the slides out we were charged an additional $2 a day to move. We are at their mercy.
I have heard reports saying that RVing is cheaper than hotel travel. Not cheaper than the hotels I frequent! Add in gas, maintenance, repairs, and campground fees, and RVing has certainly become a hobby for the well-off. At least in a hotel, I usually have several to choose from and they aren’t hanging out a “campground full” sign.
It takes us longer to get to our destinations in an RV so therefore there are more campground fees. Gas is a lot higher in our diesel guzzler than in my little Kia. The frustration of finding and booking campgrounds is vexing. At least food is cheaper when we eat in the RV…
We are using Harvest Hosts when we can, and state parks when there is a cancellation. We finally scored a reservation at a Colorado State Park, but, alas, not a lot cheaper: $46 a night because we are out-of-staters. This may explain a lot of open sites. It doesn’t average out the high costs of the private RV parks though. It is a big chunk of change to go from point A to point B, but I am stuck by my love of RVing.
I am totally and completely stuck. As much as I grouse about it, I love RVing. Seeing different places, having our own stuff, and sleeping in my own bed… The moral of this story is to make our reservations sooner, compare prices and try to set some sort of budget.
What are you, our readers, finding? Are campground prices higher? Please comment below and let me know your perspective.
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##RVT1110
CG’s like other businesses are all running at the top end of the simple capitalistic theory of “what the market will support”. As long as folks will pay they will all work together through various campground owner associations to make the most money while not forcing each other out of business. KOA’s are ultimate business for this thinking. Who actually supports their “research” for “what campers want”. Most deliver the same mediocre service for more money and folks who like to “keep up with the Jones’s” keep buying into it.
Higher prices are showing in the East.. But, folks are not paying into it.. One of my favorite campgrounds is down about 40% over last year.. No one wants to pay 120 while competition is 90 a night.. As long as there is competition, prices can be in check. Lose the competition.. then look out.
First, I want to say, we prefer to travel by RV for the fact we have our own bed – among the other multitude of reasons. It isn’t because we think it’s cheaper. I just dislike staying in hotels if I can be in my own bed.
As to pricing, we generally find our last minute (same day or week in advance) RV park spots in the $40-50 range. It’s definitely higher than it used to be but I usually wait until we are on the road so we have a clear idea of our trip timing. Otherwise, if we reserve ahead, it might be cheaper but if we have to then reschedule or cancel, extra fees for changes or no refund cancellations can add up.
I avoid those overpriced “resorts” that are $100-200 and up.
We camp in Ocean City New Jersey every year and campgrounds there are $100-150 a night. One we used to stay at in Maryland went from $125 in 2018 to now almost $200 a night for a campsite to park an RV on. We come from Canada and unfortunately don’t think we will be travelling to those destinations again, it’s just too expensive for us because on top of those prices we have to add the exchange and right now for us $100 US is $136 Canadian. We stay in Portland Maine and that is still expensive at almost $80 a night.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but you can always camp in Canada where apparently it’s cheaper?
Right, because Canada’s $6.50/gallon gas, $55.00/case of beer, $12.00/pound ground beef and $17.00/#1 at MacDonalds is way cheaper than a trip south into the USA. Just sayin SLM. I mean, a $12.00 bottle of wine in US is $28.00 in Canada. Don’t get me wrong, Canada is beautiful but most Americans can’t afford a vacae in Canada anymore, it’s like going to France but with nicer people.
“…at least food is cheaper” you say? Have you been to Walmart lately?
They are finally killing the goose that lays the golden eggs with what I see as greed. Harvest Host (HH) is a great alternative. Drawbacks, usually only one night and you are expected to purchase something from your host (business). Also often, no hookups but for 1 night sans campground fee gouging we can take it. Add Boondockers Welcome (BW) now owned by HH and a slightly different model. It would behoove you to look into it. We use BW/HH almost exclusively. We have pretty much beat the gouging – screw them!
How is being “expected to purchase something from your host (business).” a drawback? You are staying for free. If it’s such a hardship feel free to spend 70 plus per night elsewhere and not be expected to purchase something from your host (business).
Because it’s not free and we paid for a membership. Purchasing should be optional. And we don’t drink wine so why would we live without hookups for the same price to have to purchase something we don’t want.
Heck, we don’t want to live without hookups regardless of whether it’s free, or not.
Vodka huh?
Keep in mind if you buy wine , you get to take it and enjoy when you want!
The extra fee that I refuse to pay is the “Lock In” fee. This fee guarantee’s you will be staying on the site you selected when you registered. Well, for me, when I register, my credit card deposit is my “Lock in” fee. Just another way to grab a few bucks out of the campers wallet.
I guess you don’t use Passport America? I am a lifetime member since 1998. I am surprised how many rv’ers don’t know about that company. On a recent trip from Quartzsite to Roseburg, OR recently we averaged about $27 per night. One “resort” near Lodi, CA was $42.50. I wondered how many around me were paying $85 for the same site that wasn’t worth $42.50 in my opinion.
I have only stayed in 3 KOA’s in over 20 years full time. I have read that some only stay in KOA’s. I can’t understand that.
Since retiring nine years ago, we’ve really seen the prices go up at RV parks, and many state parks. We are fortunate to be able to afford to travel 3-4 months a year, but I avoid parks over $60-70 unless there is really something special to see or do there. I feel for those less fortunate and especially young families who must make difficult decisions about if and where they can camp so their little ones can enjoy the great outdoors. I completely understand and support the concept of capitalism, but abhor greed. Just because you can squeeze another $10 or $20 out of a family, doesn’t mean you should.
We do use Harvest Host when possible, because we enjoy wine and usually have a great time getting to know the winery staff and owners. Although we joke that a “free campsite” usually ends up costing us at least a $100…but we leave with a good bottle or two of wine.
Have you seen some of the rigs those young families are in? The only reason they have to make difficult decisions about if and where is because their 5th wheel or toy hauler is too big to fit in some parks.
Nanci: I have lived in Colorado for 60 years, but if I want an electric campsite at a popular Colorado state park, say Mueller SP on the west side of Pikes Peak, I would pay $46/night just like you did. That’s $36 for the site and $10/day for the park pass. Colorado has NOT instituted a higher price for out-of-state RVers (yet)! The only difference is that state residents can buy a number of passes that non-residents can’t buy. But those passes only get us into the park without payjng for a daily park pass. As a senior, I can buy an annual pass for $70 that gets me into the park “free”. But it is good for only one vehicle and is non-transferable (it’s a window sticker). If we camp Sunday – Thursday night, we can get a $2-3/night discount on that $36/night electric site. So, nothing about camping at CO SPs is free and it is just as expensive for us as for you.
Well, it looks like the Ship has finally hit the sand! My wife & I have been RVlng since the 90’s.
We have traversed the good ole U.S.A. many times, experienced beautiful treasures in the Country we love, and visited 45 States in “ROVER”. Last week we closed on a summer home in North Carolina. Yes! it did cost more than a new motorhome, but we are done paying $50-$70 bucks a nite for a 30′ X 50′ slab with neighbors 10′ away. Now all we see are Green Mountains from our one acre paradise. By the way, ROVER is “For Sale”
You didn’t mention what you’re paying for your one acre paradise.
Let me guess… $300,000 at 6% interest 2nd home rate, needs TLC with the necessary permits, property tax, water bill, 1 acre of lawn to mow to keep the ticks down, …..
They have ticks in campgrounds where you have a lot less control and ability to treat to prevent.
We bought a small house in the Catskills, NY (Phoenecia). 3/4 acre, surrounded by beautiful trees, birds chirping, rock filled streams everywhere, treating our lawn with tick prevention in layers, no big deal on trails just don’t go to overgrown areas. We haven’t seen a single tick.
No campground smoke, no crowded sites, no hassles with reservations, other than the nights on the way up from Florida, where we also have a home.
Planning to air bnb out for occasional travel out west.
Yes we have taxes but the lower NY prices still made a lot of sense.
Cool weather in the summer unlike NC.
Paid cash.
No regrets.
Sorry Nanci, but in my recent apples to apples experience, hotels are not a less expensive way to travel. We are not talking boondocking vs 4-5 star hotels either. We are talking about driving the same 1,700 mile route, nice campgrounds with full hookups vs clean 2-3 star hotels in the same towns as the campgrounds. And pets. The camper is a 21′ fully self-contained TT. The vehicle is a 2020 Subaru Ascent – 10-11mpg towing, and 25-26 mpg not towing.
We towed south just before winter, and less than a month later drove north for a parent’s funeral. Moving pets into and out of a hotel vs the camper they knew is a hassle, dinners were take-out balanced on knees (can’t leave pets alone in hotel) vs healthier pre-cooked and frozen meals eaten at a table in the camper.
We spent about $300 less towing and staying at campgrounds. Does not include fixed costs of the camper which we would have paid anyhow.
Add that fixed cost of purchasing your RV, the huge depreciation cost of your RV and the maintenance cost of your RV you so casually left out of the discussion until the last sentence and Hotel/Motels win hands down!
I’m with you. We’ve done it both ways also traveling with a dog. Cheaper, less stress and much more convenient.
We’ve also noticed the higher prices. I’m sure some of it is inflation – paying good wages to workers, electricity going up, taxes going up, etc. Most RVers are looking for lower campground fees but it’s amazing to me how many people will pay hundreds to stay at glamping parks, resorts, etc. And because they continue to pay those prices, campgrounds will charge them. Then there are the “resorts” that charge high prices but offer little.
I guess it’s up to us to seek out the less expensive campgrounds. Maybe they’ll notice – maybe not. Like my dd used to say, it’s a crap shoot.
Corporate greed from the same companies which received the largest tax giveaway ever in 2016. Not working out so well.
Ron. Really? Cut and paste?
his keyboard must be broken, he just can right click and paste…can we get a go fund me page started to buy him a new keyboard OR…he is a parrot and was owned by an angry human and this is the extent of his vocabulary
Too funny, it has become a ‘gag’ joke… it’s not 2016 but back in the first days of mankind… buy low, sell high… snake oil salesman… PT Barnum…🤑💲🤑💲🤑
Please stop your trolling…it’s getting old.
Uggh, Come On Ron…
Maybe I’ll start a new cut & paste response of my own: “U.S. Corp tax competitiveness with our international competitors to ensure a continued strong U.S.” 😉
Naw…best to just let it go. 🙂
Without tax breaks, I guess they’ll move our camp grounds to Mexico and China
Without taxes, I guess our highways and bridges will keep collapsing. 🙄
How is it that when income tax rates are lower, the Fed collects more money than when income tax rates are higher? Everyone and anyone that understands economics knows the answer. That question is for Ron too. Maybe an understanding of this is needed, or not. I’m not implying you do not know, I’m just curious why Ron specifically and you passively seem to want less money collected for roads and bridges.
Thanks Victim. We get it.
LoL
Solo RVing is definitely more expensive than ‘hoteling’…
Not.
Agree
It’s greed! That’s it. These campgrounds are bought out by the same major corporations that pay virtually Zero tax after huge tax breaks they didn’t even ask for. Only to raise prices on EVERYthing they sell or make.
Recently completed a round trip Florida to Montana. Spent many a night in Wally World, Cabela’s, Truck Stop parking lots due to the ridiculous campground fees.
Worst of the bunch are Love’s new “RV Hookup” spots. Over Father’s Day weekend they had availability at many that I passed. But they had jacked up the prices — on average — $10 to $15 above usual because of… I don’t know: Greed? They need to understand that I’m not paying upwards of $45 for a power-only hookup next to the gas pumps!
And, as a result, I didn’t buy fuel at Love’s either. And that’s up to 100 gallons of diesel sale lost to them too!
I clearly don’t understand their mentality that it’s better to have five $50 sites sit empty and unpaid than have five $30 sites booked and paid for.
It’s not only their mentality, I’ve seen that same way in other things too.
Wow! $45 to park in a truck stop lot (with electric)?! That’s absurd.
It’s their call obviously, but I’m with you — why not offer the spots at a reasonable rate, considering it is an often obnoxiously loud parking lot — not a campground.
Ive read that since Cabela’s have been bought out that they have started stopping ON parking, have you seen that happening?
The mentality is, take the money and run
I just faced the price hikes at a favorite, family owned campground. The rate for a full hook-up has been $32 for several years. A stay this past week-end was a surprise. New rates are $45 on week days, $55 week-ends for two with an up-charge of $5 per additional person plus $5 for our dog! $70 a night with two grandkids and the pooch. No upgrades to the park. We will probably continue to pay the price because we enjoy the park but maybe not as often.
Ever since everyone wanted a camper to get away during the pandemic, campground prices have jumped. Our county CG took away some amenities then raised the nightly fee by $12. State parks have remained reasonable, thank goodness. One new glampground opened near us a couple years ago. It has everything, a fine dining restaurant to fast foods, pools, hot tubs, activities, kids park, etc. Full hook up is $149 a night, extra charge for each person over 4 people, and most activities cost extra. Have to be a millionaire to afford that.
We were just in TN.There is a newer RV resort in Pigeon Forge…to us like camping in a parking lot…so close together, 2 pools, covered recreation area, etc etc a few sites had a personal hot tub, stone fire place, out door patio set….this place was packed!!! Mostly huge very nice motor homes. Yes they have many trees planted, we just failed to understand the draw. Ave of $150 & up.
We stayed at Greenbrier campground in Gatlinburg.We pd $90 for week nite, $129 weekend. But we stay in a standard site, as they have preminum river sites.They did take Good Sams.The campground is the style we like- lots of trees, surrounded by the river, great playground for our 6 yr old, They set up big screen for movie nite on Fri with free pop corn. They have a nice lttle beach swimming area. Rent golf carts.( Not huge campground so not really needed) Game room with free old pinball games, covered pavillion with pool table etc.The showers are invdivual.Nice laundry area.
So we were there 2 yrs ago, campground packed, same yr before.We were there 9 nites, cc was about 1/4 filled. Later maybe half full.We talked to neighbors, they had been 6 days bef we arrived, sd it had stayed faitlrly empty.
According to FB, lots of people that had been coming since they were kids were not coming back unt prices dropped. So this Cc did not do themselves any favors, they have over 200 sites, and for so many to be empty obviously folks meant what they said.Many comments that there were many other CC way more affordable in area.
We have camped in Erie for 20 yrs.The CC we stay at started pricing higher on weekends, holidays special events probably 12 or more yrs ago.
In WV our state parks raised this yr to $45 to $55 a nite compared to Ave of $38 a nite. We camped at 3 popular parks so far this yr, they were all more than 60 to 70% empty.
We qualify for a 50% dis in off season so we wont be back unt Sep.
Rest of our camping will be at a few Army Corp within 45min to 1:15 hr away.Those prices are still atound $36 a nite but we get 50% all season.
I agree with others that say its cheaper staying in a decent hotel after paying the higher fees, gas etc. So I get using a camper no longer affordable for many families. I watch a few RV sites on FB sites and many folks are selling , seeing mostly 2022 units that have had many many extras added? After that 2019 to 2021. Most claim they only used units a few times? A think a lot did not put any thought of cost and required upkeep. Local RV dealers have really full lots and are slashing new 22 & 23 units.
We will continue to camp as long as we possibly can!
An ‘out of state’ fee? Really? I have to pay more because I am from out of town? Isn’t that the whole point of RVing? That’s like a vacation resort hotel charging more for being out of town. Who the heck goes to a resort in their own town?
I’m not defending it in any way, but the thinking seems to be that out of state tax dollars are desirable because then in-state residents can pay less.
It does seem short-sighted.
As an in state resident camper, I pay sales tax every day I purchase something in my home state. Most years that is 345 days a year I’m buying stuff and paying sales tax. I pay state income tax every year (the state has excellent state parks). I paid over $1,000 sales tax on the used car I bought, payable to the state which runs the state parks. I pay county real estate taxes and there are county parks here that have lovely camping. I pay fees to the state when I renew my car license plates and my camping trailer plates. So pardon me if I appreciate being able to pay a lower camping fee at MY state parks than all the out of state campers have to pay. I’ve paid so dang much money over the years towards the agencies that run my state parks. You visit for a week, maybe, from out of state and have to pay $25 more a night, for instance. That is $175 extra you’ve contributed to these lovely state parks. Wow. I wish that was all I’ve had to contribute over the years to my state agencies that build, maintain, update, and employ staff to keep the state parks lovely! Quit your whining, you out of state campers.
I’m not sure what hotels you’re discussing . Have you tried booking hotels in the past year? I have. 100$ is entry level for remote places
“ motel 6 quality “ with the average much closer to $150 !! My cross country car trip recently made this clear. My average hotel on the 6 nights was 148$ ! Everything is up and dramatically! People on low “social security type” only incomes have less and less options. Motel / hotel travel included! Try booking some hotels .. after tax etc I think you’ll find rv travel is not as bad as you profess.
Yep. We took a trip to pick up our travel trailer and hotels were definitely NOT 70.00 per night. 125.00 was the cheapest.
Hey Baby,
Ya Gotta PAY to PLAY!
No different than any other hobby or activity you are interested in!
Since we have a small TT, we often camp in national park and US Forest Service campgrounds, where my Senior Pass cuts the base fee in half. We don’t mind dry camping, although we don’t boondock (camp outside established campgrounds, for a number of reasons).
For our FHU overnights, and longer stays, this year, we won’t break $100 – and I know even mid level hotels on the areas we’ll be in would be 2-3X what we’ll be paying.
In some of the places we go, there isn’t even a hotel within easy exploring distance. Plus, we have a bed tailored to my bad back, our own food, and don’t have to drag luggage in and out. Not to mention, having our own toilet and kitchen when we stop on the road. All of that isn’t definable by $$.
Agreed
Good points Andrea!
As a small campground owner we are very aware of how high prices are. Taxes, utilities, maintenance by professionals (vs work campers) have risen to unbelievable levels. Being in a tourist town we have been forced to have our guests pay 3.5% higher taxes to cover town employee housing (even though we personally give no cost sites to our work campers). The demand for really good WIFI also costs bucks, but we offer it for traveling work folks (I know most campgrounds don’t from my own travels!). We’re at the low end of pricing in private campgrounds in our resort town, but we offer the best service & are #1 because of that & the beauty of nature. Our guests keep coming back, year after year and we are beyond grateful! We’d all love to go back to pricing that doesn’t seem ridiculous!
Daughter &family w/another couple spending 2 nights in Santa Cruz KOA.Thought I would check the pricing as it is a weekend & in season. Expected site fees to be high but was in shock. A pull thru site was $200 before taxes (it’s CA, can’t imagine & we live here). Last year, we returned to Sugarloaf Key KOA after their hurricane renovation. We had been going there prior to hurricane for over 10 yrs. New park is beautiful. Had pull thru site with huge paver patio, furniture, stone fire pit and lush landscaping with a water view. That was $200/night, in the Keys, in high season (Feb/Mar). Yes, S Cruz KOA has lots of fun things for the kids and is “near” (mile walk to beach) the stunning CA coast & Monterey Bay. The kicker is in summer time, the coast is more often foggy & cold. Today is cloudy, high of 64 degrees. In order to see pricing the first dates I could get were beginning of August, midweek. So many are paying the price.
Sorry, I don’t care where it is or what kind of views it has, I will NOT pay 200.00 per night for a tiny spot in a park/resort or whatever you want to call them.
We were married in the Keys so it has a special place in our hearts. We love Cuban food and seafood. We love the water and the places to visit. We were called when they were reopening after being shutdown for 5 years due to hurricane. We knew it would probably be last time we would be in the Keys & we booked less time than we previously stayed because of the price. We are blessed to be able to afford it. We also stay in small family run rv parks for $40 or less, when we can find them. We enjoy them as well. Of the 13 nights on our recent return trip 9 nights below $45. 3 of the stays were multiple days so we could visit the local areas. We like giving back to small businesses same as we did in the Keys.
I absolutely loved this post and your reply Diane Mc. It was a beautiful story of connection. Thanks.
Good news though, Fentanyl is at record low prices right now so we’re probably about even on the inflationary scale.
Why are you responding..so ridiculous
It was a post, not a response to someone specific Donna. Truth is Donna. sometimes I just like to take cheap shots at the current state of our economy, our country and at the puppet masters trying to hide the pure incompetence under a disguise of affable senility.
19 out of 20 posts, I do with passion, honesty and thoughtful regard for the material at hand but this one and the last one, purely gratuitous jabs.
Good evening Donna. 😀
PS. We really like the RV park on the river at Greenbrier, in Tennessee as well. 👍
Please stay in Tennessee.
I post here remotely so your stuck with me FOREVER. 😆🤣😅😁😂🤣
And that’s supposed to be, what, humorous? This is RV Travel, not My Politics. Take it elsewhere, please.
Forever, and ever and ever.
I have to wonder if campground owners are also needing to pay workers more (besides the greed of the investors).
We went from Chattanooga to Charlotte, Michigan for classroom training on our Spartan chassis, overnighting at the FMCA campground with only 50-amp electric for $10. We also only had 50-amp service during the training in Spartan’s lot, but at no additional charge. We spent 3 nights with 30-amp service, available potable water, and a dump station for $40/night at the RV Hall of Fame and Museum in Elkhart while getting work done by Master Tech RV and Marine, and then awaiting our appointment at Newmar. If you get service/repairs at Newmar, then you stay in Newmar’s campground/parking lot for no additional charge. Each site has 30- and 50-amp service, water, and sewer. Downside is the techs come for your RV at 6 AM each day. Upside is it is returned at 2:30 PM each day unless your coach is being painted.
That’s a deal-breaking downside.
You are camping in an rv park, not a campground. Stay in a campground and prices are very reasonable. NF site riverfront in Oregon just $8/day. Please Nanci…you know the difference…be accurate and specific. Thanks!!
I’ve gotten the feeling she likes to complain and stir the pot. She does know the difference and keeps doing it anyway.
We have been camping for 30 years and now on social security and these high prices have priced us out! It’s sad!
We can only hope that the upward trend in CG pricing will reverse itself in line with the massive decrease in RV sales, both new and used. I have heard comments that the RV auction lots are full of repos from those who blindly bought during the pandemic blind on the effects of a 20-year loan. I believe a lot of national chains (KOA anybody) jumped with both feet in buying up mom-and-pops as fast as they could seeing the soaring RV sales. Like any large corp once those sales (rentals, gift shops, supplies, etc) drop off they divorce themselves quicker than when they bought. We can only hope.
Unfortunately it’s just like everything else that goes up, it MAY come down a little, but never as low as it was.
I have been a full-time nomad traveling for eight years. Yes, the campgrounds are getting more expensive, and many state campgrounds have increased their prices to $45.00, and some are dry camping close to the coast in California. I am still able to find many spots in the national forest for free, and many are not that busy. Since I work remotely, the challenge was to find nice spots with internet service, which Is more of a challenge. I recently subscribed to Starlink, which is a game-changer.
Camping still provides options and choices for me, while other types of recreation maybe not so. I still love this life and still find alternatives that meet my needs and pocketbook.
The only real complaint are those states charging double for out-of-state folks. I thought each state were seeking tourists for their state. This does not make any sense.
I don’t understand that either! States want those tourists dollars but they’re going to charge nonresidents double the price!?!? Seems to me like they’re just shooting themselves in the foot.
You frequent hotels that charge less than $70/night? Must be the ones that have hourly rates too! Most hotels of even basic quality standards cost at least $150/night now.
I was thinking the same thing.
Agreed.I dont kniw of any hotel I would stay at that is under $100
Almost hesitate to tell all. We have great luck with Corps of Engineers campsites. Clean, most with electric, on the water. I bought their book for about $12. Most states have a few or a bunch. And for us ol guys, we averaged $10 or less per night.
In the 1960s money was tight for us even with gas @ 32cent a gallon – 15cent during gas wars, used tire for $10, reconditioned motor oil for 25cent a quart. Prices are nuts and money still short, but tent, used tires and oil, no longer meet our specifications, Now a Class B and gas and camping prices at who knows what? We didn’t get rich, but on the other hand our style of living hasn’t changed much. We are just happy that we still have what we have. How great it has been to travel this ol’ USA. We just may have a couple more trips in us.
Hi Nanci,
Good column!
Things have really changed in 10 years. Most public campground sites with electric were $20 – $26. We travel during the late spring and early fall, and until fairly recently getting into even the most popular national parks was no problem — just drive in. In fact, we often had them practically to ourselves!
That said, RV travel still can be cheaper than “car/hotel/restaurant travel” — even with the higher cost of campgrounds.
A car might cost $0.50+ per mile, our View costs about $1 per mile (incl. depreciation; fuel; maint.; repairs; insurance). So for every mile driven, the car “saves” about 50 cents.
However, the cost of hotels ranges from >$100 to around $260 (per one study). Two meals for 2 may be $80. So maybe $220/day?
A campsite might be ~$60, but that leaves $160. So if the RV is driven <320 miles/day it's less expensive (or at least may be).
Yes everything is more expensive these days but we do not continue to RV to save money. Gas is more, RV Parks are higher than ever, Parts, repairs, tires, etc are more. We travel (a lot) in our RV for the enjoyment of having our own space when and where we want to go. The ferry fare here to get across Puget Sound is over $100 each way (for 50’+) It is certainly not “cheaper” for us to RV (over car travel) nor do we expect it to be so. However that said, we still do not favor the KOAs and their high costs compared to their value, but mainly because of all the campfire smoke permeating the inside of our coach for days after we stay at a KOA. Different strokes for different folks…..
I agree that campground smoke has become a huge issue perhaps bc sites are so close together. The authors of this blog need to write on this subject. We are avoiding numerous parks in the future bc of bad smoke. Haven’t campers got the memo about the serious lung damage that results from breathing smoke? No thanks…
Luckily I have 50 acres in the woods in Southern Indiana. I am not paying those prices. I feed my fresh water hold and load up my champion generator. One gallon for 12 hours without AC. No golf carts, no loud drunk neighbors and no loud music. Remember? Like camping used to be.
I don’t know what hotels you use but a Days Inn in Imlay City, Michigan nicked us for $141 a night for reservations made four months in advance. The local Holiday Inn Express in Auburn Hills, Michigan was $244 a night this year when it was $130 a night for the same dates last year. The Days Inn does no housekeeping, not even towel replacements unless you drop off a card at the desk each morning with what you want. Even the Super 8 was well over $100 a night.
It depends on the Days Inn. I work at one in Northern Michigan and while we don’t do them for two night stays, we do them for longer stays. We also don’t require a card for towel exchange; just set towels out by your door and they get replaced usually within the hour if not quicker. We’ll take the trash too if needed. We’re as accommodating as possible given that we’re a bit short handed (not a lot people want to clean rooms for the pay that’s offered).
I’ll stick to our RV. At least we can cook our own meals as the price of eating out has become prohibitive on a daily basis. It just takes a little more (ok, a lot more) planning to find affordable accommodations. We are loving Canada for their reasonable camping rates. This coupled with the fact we can travel with our dog easier and we meet great friends camping makes it all worthwhile. How many lifetime friends have you met staying at a motel?
We known many people on fixed incomes who decided to give up RVing because of the increased costs. We can thank our central bank (printing money out of thin air), government deficit spending and to a lesser extent, greedy park owners for this. Where will it end?
Good God. Government spending has zero to do with campground fees. However, I can only think of one party who consistently seeks to reduce or eliminate those fixed incomes (not to mention health care) altogether. 🙄 The cause IS greedy campground owners, and not “to a lesser extent.” And many of those folks, like you, play a huge role by also voting in a way that directly harms those on fixed incomes.
In general on your assertion Tina: is that because 7% inflation is so much better than 1.6% inflation? Because gas is way cheaper now at $3.50/gallon than it was at $2.20/gallon? Because violent crime was so much worse when it was 35% LOWER than it is today? Because war in Europe is better than peace in Europe? Or finally, is that because 6 million illegals is better for the country and economy than 2 million illegals at $75k cost per illegal to the tax payer for a very cool total of $450,000,000,000 tax payer dollar per year. (450 billion if you lose track of the zeros). Thank for helping to save the country Tina.
Possibly you believe housing costs should be lower with mortgage interest at 7.66% than 2.66% or business credit based on prime plus, is less with prime is 7% than when it was 3%.
Is it possibly the fact that Americans have tripled balances on credit cards the past 2 years and are making interest only payments at triple the frequency now than they did 4 years ago?
Gas was $2.20 because the oil companies could not give crude away. The wells shut down and workers lost their jobs. But apparently you have no problem with that as long as you get your gas for $2.20.
Your big take away is that the only thing I care about is gas prices? Nothing about the half dozen failures, topics? War? Drugs? Nothing else huh?
OK then, Yes, I am a free market guy. Supply and demand. Get the govt out of falsely limiting supply and inflating prices. Thanks.
So, you have Fox “News” on 24/7 in your house, evidently.
Assuming one has a basic understanding of inflation one would know that inflation is predominantly a monitory phenomenon. Printing trillions in a few short years does have consequences, Tina. The central bank and many in government depend on people’s ignorance to continue their inflationary policies.
Jees . What a couple of Debbie downers. Prices have gone up. The number of RV’ers has gone up. Supply and demand dictates prices. More RV’ers and static campground sites means increased demand and price elasticity (prices vary by demand). We are paying more but everyone wants more amenities. Inflation is up, (and believe it or not) wages are up. SS got an 8% raise. I guess if you don’t like the cost – don’t camp!
I am creating a small new farm stay campground in central southern North Carolina. I really appreciate seeing the feedback on this site. I want to tell you that for the owners side it takes a long time and a lot of perseverance, along with a lot of work prayers and money to create and maintain campground. The cost of all materials has increased 30% on average since I started. There is so much you don’t see because there is an intricate and costly infrastructure underground. Electrical components currently have a global shortage that you don’t hear about till you go looking. That shortage is expected to last several years, making costs triple, as well as timelines. Above ground the cost of gravel, seed, building materials all higher due to those same fuel prices that raise your travel cost. Our power company has plans to raise rates 18% over the next few years as well. It will take many years to recoup the investment in a new campground, but I seek to give everyone a positive experience
A year ago I booked 5 nights for this July 4th holiday. Last week, I decided I would go a few days early so I booked 3 nights leading up to the 5 booked a year ago. Same State Park. Same site.
The 3 nights cost more then the original 5. Cost is up 100%
I’m not bound to pay exorbitant prices to stay at an RV Park. I’ll pick lesser costing places like local/state campgrounds, COE campgrounds, fairgrounds, and Ma and Pa places that still keep their prices low. High cost campgrounds/RV Parks can only survive if we continue to pay their prices, and I’m not willing to do that. Did it one time because no one else nearby had a spot and paid almost $90.00 to stop for the night. Won’t happen again.
Earlier in my reply to people who are whining about non resident campground fees, I listed all the taxes and fees that I pay to my state and county governments over the decades. I forgot another expense I had while living in my state. Our street was repaved and we had a property tax assessment on that a few years ago. So in addition to state income tax, state sales tax, property taxes, license renewal fees (all that money goes to the state and county which builds and maintains the excellent parks we have here) residents here are paying assessments on road infrastructure. So you all from out of state that arrive lumbering your RV’s over our roads, stop whining and crying while you have to pay a few more dollars for each camping night. I’m sure I’ve paid 10’s of thousands of dollars over the decades to state and county governments (and it may surpass $100,000 for all I know) and these state and county governments build and maintain the excellent parks we have in our state.
It’s your choice not to travel by rv but do not think for one minute that refers do not pay the same taxes you do. We do. And I, for one, have people coming to my town to enjoy the lovely place I call home. But I don’t mind. Open up your heart and your mind. We all pay taxes.
Here’s a thought . . . If you don’t like the taxation policies of where you live, move. As a resident of a well known AZ tourist destination, I certainly don’t complain about the tourists from a taxation standpoint, since visitors always pay more than residents in various transaction taxes targeting visitors. The residents of an area are responsible for the taxation policies of where they live, not visitors. Get a life and get a clue. You can go to sperlingsbestplaces.com and look up taxation policies of any locale.
I wish my tax bills for state and local taxes had only been in (maybe) six figures.
I’ve been using free dispersed camping for the last 14 months from Florida, to where I am in Wyoming now. I’ve never had an issue finding a site …… But that being said, I’m tent camping, and totally off-grid, self contained. I rarely pay, or even want to camp in a “regular” campground with amenities anymore. Not worth it.
I had made my reservations for our trip to Colorado from Arizona in March 2023 to travel month of July 2023. I found prices are up and paid 70 to $ 60.00 a nite! If you book a whole week price does drop a bit. But I have noticed rv parks are not completely full like last year. Gas is up, doing laundry at campground is up and laundromats prices. Eating out is wayyy up. So eating in more, and budgeting more, still makes rv’ing the way to go!