By Gail Marsh
Are you tired of the same old winter routine? Stuck indoors, battling the cold, and missing out on the beauty of the season? It might be time to consider a winter adventure in your RV. RVing in the winter can be an incredible experience filled with many benefits. From picturesque snowscapes to cozy campfires, there’s so much to love about braving the cold in an RV. Here are the top ten reasons why you should consider hitting the road during the winter months.
Escape the crowds
One of the most compelling reasons to RV in the winter is the serenity and peace it offers. Popular tourist destinations are far less crowded, and you can often have that picturesque mountain or lakeside spot all to yourself. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family in need of some bonding time, winter RVing allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of summer crowds.
Hint: Call ahead to confirm the campground’s winter hours of operation. Some camps close down during the winter months for necessary maintenance and/or to update their facilities.
Scenic winter wonderlands
Winter landscapes can be breathtaking. Snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and snow-capped mountains create a winter wonderland that’s simply mesmerizing. RVing allows you to immerse yourself in this natural beauty, offering front-row seats to the magic of the season.
Hint: Always check the weather forecasts before you start out. Look at forecasted weather along your travel route as well. Choose your getaway when favorable temperatures are forecast. Remember, you need not travel far from home. A weekend change of scenery at a nearby campground can help shake the winter blues.
Wildlife encounters
The reduced number of human visitors means wildlife is often more active and visible in the winter. Spotting deer, foxes, or even majestic bald eagles in their natural habitat can be a thrilling experience during your RV winter journey. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and camera or cell phone to capture these unique moments.
More than a hint: Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. Always.
Cozy comfort
While the outside world may be frosty, the inside of your RV can feel as cozy as can be. It is possible to enjoy the beauty of winter without discomfort.
Hint: Precheck your heating system before hitting the road and ensure your propane tanks are filled. Extras you may also consider taking along include a space heater, electric blanket, sweatshirt, and warm footwear, too.
Campfires and s’mores
Who can resist the allure of a crackling campfire in the wintertime? Roasting marshmallows and making s’mores is a cherished tradition made even more special when the temperatures cool.
Here are my favorite s’mores recipes.
Stargazing
Winter nights are often the clearest, making it the perfect time for stargazing. Away from city lights, you’ll be able to see the Milky Way and constellations that you might have never experienced before. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that can deepen your connection with nature.
Hint: Download the app, SkyView® Lite, to your cellphone. Here’s the Android app and here’s the Apple app. Then, just point your cellphone at the sky, and the app will identify constellations, planets, and more.
Winter sports and activities
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, winter RVing opens up a world of exciting activities. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and snowshoeing, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Many campgrounds are conveniently located near winter sports destinations, making it easy to pursue your favorite activities.
Hint: Ask the campground manager and/or local folks about nearby outdoor activities.
Bonding time
Winter RVing provides a unique opportunity for quality family time or for couples to enjoy each other’s company. There’s something special about huddling up in your RV, playing board games, sharing stories, and creating unforgettable memories in a winter wonderland.
Here are 20 great camping games and puzzles that RVers of all ages will enjoy.
Lower costs
Traveling during the winter can also be budget-friendly. Campground fees are often lower, and you can sometimes score great deals.
Hint: Call ahead to check site costs and available amenities.
Peace and solitude
Perhaps the most significant benefit of winter RVing is the sense of solitude it provides. It’s a chance to disconnect from the daily grind, reflect, and recharge your batteries in the tranquility of nature.
Hint: Remember to take along the supplies you’ll need to winterize your rig when your off-season retreat comes to an end.
If you’re ready to break free from your winter routine, give winter RVing a try. Pack along those extra blankets and some hot cocoa and marshmallows, and you’re all set for a winter RVing experience you’ll never forget.
Have you ever RVed during the winter? Tell us about your experience in the comments below.
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RVDT2788
No one else there is all I need. We go out for a week, every month, year round.
We have a motorhome and got caught in the Texas freeze in 2021 for 9 days. It was not pleasant. RVs are very drafty because of the slides, your windows are thin sheets of plexiglass, and the door is drafty. The floor was COLD. We’d been camping and weren’t winterized, so we left cabinets open to keep our plumbing from freezing, which let more cold air in. We were extremely fortunate that nothing froze. Our campground was lucky to be on a reservoir and had its own water source, so you could use the CG facilities, and the CG power held throughout. The town didn’t have water, and its electricity was spotty. Those 9 days were enough winter camping for us.
We are in our 9th winter RVing in Texas Hill Country. Let me give you a flip version of that horrific 2021 storm. Our daughter’s family lives in Austin and our granddaughter was only months old when the power went out for a week and roads were impassable. They survived by making a tent on their bed and putting in as much insulation in the form of clothes and blankets as possible. They scrubbed and filled their tub and used the gas stove to heat food and water. (continued)
(resumed) We were 50 miles away in our RV. Power was on/off and cell towers repeatedly offline. The highway was ice.The temps got down to +3F. But because all critical systems run off 12v, we had heat, we had internal water, and we had lights. For RVs without generators, the tow vehicles recharged house batteries as needed. When propane ran low, the manager of the propane supply 5 miles away braved the roads and came in. The business had a small generator to operate the pumps. A group at the RV park rounded up tanks and loaded a 4WD truck for the slow trip. Nobody was without heat in their RV. The community building had a propane stove and sporadic heat, and chili or soup was made.
I have just two or three words for winter – period! “Bah-Hum Bug”! (My attitude is born from about 70 of my 89 years of living in the wind swept white wonderland and -20f to -38f). Ya gotta love the holiday season tho – it does have a magic to it!
I have done significant winter camping in very cold temps: down to -20°F one time.
If you travel on salted roads, use a “salt away” product to wash the underside of the RVs metal parts as soon as possible afterwards to help avoid or stop corrosion.
I winter camped without de-winterizing. I would take a couple 5 gallon water containers and store them in the shower. Used dish pans for doing dishes or a quick body wipedown, heating water on the stove. Used campground facilities, which were usually outhouses. Kinda neat to rough it a bit! You don’t need to use your water system or toilet.