If you’re still planning your RV trips this summer, keep in mind that several state park systems have announced changes that could affect where you camp, how you make reservations, and what to expect when you arrive. Here’s a roundup of some important recent developments.
California cracks down on campground no-shows
One of the biggest changes for RV travelers comes from California’s state park system. Beginning July 1, campers who cancel reservations at the last minute or simply fail to show up will face much stiffer penalties. Campers who cancel less than two days before arrival or don’t show up at all will forfeit their camping fees. Anyone who accumulates three no-shows in a calendar year can be barred from making campground reservations for one year.
The new rules are intended to reduce “ghost reservations,” a long-standing frustration in California where campgrounds often appear fully booked even though many campsites sit empty because of late cancellations or no-shows.
California has also launched a pilot lottery system at several high-demand campgrounds, including those at Malibu Creek and Morro Bay, to make obtaining reservations more equitable.
For RVers hoping to snag a campsite in California, the changes could mean more sites becoming available provided campers cancel early when their plans change.
Wildfires close public lands in Utah
RV travelers headed to southern Utah should check conditions before leaving home. Large wildfires have forced closures of public lands, including areas near some of the state’s most popular outdoor destinations. The Needles District of Canyonlands National Park has been closed because of the Babylon Fire, while portions of Bears Ears National Monument and nearby national forest lands have also been affected. State officials have declared an emergency as dry conditions continue across much of Utah.
Although these are primarily federal lands, many RV travelers use nearby state parks and campgrounds as base camps. Smoke, fire restrictions and road closures may affect travel throughout the region.
Washington campers continue to see reservation improvements
Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission continues expanding online reservation options. The system now releases summer reservations further in advance, and some campgrounds have extended reservation availability throughout the year. Officials say the changes are intended to make booking easier and provide greater flexibility for campers.
However, some campgrounds remain temporarily closed for construction, including work at Cape Disappointment State Park. RVers should verify campground status before traveling.
Oregon continues same-day campground reservations
Oregon remains one of the more flexible state park systems for spontaneous RV travelers. Most campgrounds allow same-day online reservations, making it possible to reserve a campsite while already on the road. New reservations become available each morning, and same-day reservations do not incur the usual reservation fee.
The system has proven especially popular with RVers whose travel plans change because of weather or road conditions.
Michigan campground renovation continues
RVers planning to visit Northern Michigan should remember that the campground at Traverse City State Park remains closed during its major renovation project. The multi-million-dollar modernization includes redesigned campground facilities, improved traffic flow, and upgraded visitor amenities. Day-use areas generally remain open, although visitors should expect occasional construction-related disruptions.
Expect crowded parks during holiday weekends
Several states continue reporting heavy visitation at popular parks.
Last weekend, six Connecticut state parks temporarily closed their entrances after parking lots filled to capacity. Similar capacity closures are common during holiday weekends across many state park systems, especially where beaches and lakes attract large crowds.
For RVers, arriving early or camping inside the park the night before can often avoid long entrance delays or full parking lots.
And so…
Competition for state park campsites remains intense, but recent policy changes may improve availability in some locations. California’s tougher reservation rules could reduce empty campsites, Oregon continues making spontaneous camping easier, and Washington is expanding reservation options.
At the same time, wildfires, construction projects and heavy summer visitation mean RV travelers should check park websites for current conditions before heading out.
RELATED
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- Washington State Parks increases out-of-state reservation fees, and more
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