What Camping Etiquette Should I Know for RV Parks?

Whether you’re an RV'ing newbie, or an old hand at camping, knowing some of the unspoken rules of campgrounds and RV Parks will make for a wonderful experience. There are many unspoken rules of etiquette around campfires. Knowing them before you arrive will help you fit in more quickly.

Every RV Park has Rules—Some Have More Than Others.

Most campgrounds and RV parks have rules posted at the office or in a brochure. Be sure to make yourself aware of them because they benefit everyone.

There will even be rules covering different areas, like the pool, a clubhouse, or other amenities that may be closed at a particular hour.

Other rules will have to do with the hours you and your party need to stay quiet, generally between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.

RV Parks for seniors, 55+ parks, may even have more rules, including that an adult accompanies children. These parks aren't exclusive to seniors; however, practices often limit the nights younger family members and children can visit the park.

How Big is Your Rig?

Parking a Class B RV 24 feet long is not quite the task of finding space for a 40-foot Class A RV with its tow car or a 5^th wheel trailer with its pull vehicle.

If you doubt you can get your rig into the space, ask for a different one. Many RV parks have pull-through sites; however, not all do, and you may need to back in – a learned skill!

You can scout ahead before taking a campsite once you arrive at an RV park. You can always call ahead and make a reservation for the type of site you will need, which can save a lot of frustration.

Knowing how much space your RV will take up at a campsite will help you keep it and your RV camping accessories inside your rented space. This is one of the first rules of etiquette. Your campsite is your yard while you occupy it, and your neighbor's site is theirs.

Does Your Rig Have a Generator?

Noise can be a problem at any RV park, and although many parks have power available at each site, others do not. Many RVs have a generator on board, or their owner has a portable unit that goes camping with them.

Generators are noisy. But they aren’t noisy like a loud stereo. The generator's sound is a monotonous hum and is more like a buzzing mosquito. However, there is a way to quieten your generator and secure it.

With a Renlicon Gen Den™, you can quiet the sound of your generator and keep it more secure. Not only does it reduce the generator noise level, but also provides protection and cover for your generator.

Bonus: It’s easy to put together using these detailed instructions and can be quickly disassembled when not needed!

Rules of Etiquette to Keep the Peace When RV Camping!

• Mind your RV slide-outs — some slide-outs can extend up to three feet from the side of your RV. When parking, consider that you need space to the side and the front and rear of your RV when setting it up.
• Lower the volume — you like Metallica, but your neighbor prefers Beethoven. Vying for the same air space will frustrate everyone, so keep your music and TV volume reasonable.
• Keep off the grass! — The grass planted between RV lots is not a walkway; you should walk on the roadway or designated paths when going from one campsite to the next.
• Ask before petting— the dog or cat may be friendly, but many pet owners will not be and do not like you to pet their animals before asking permission.
• Don't be pushy — let your new neighbors get settled before running over to make friends. That is unless they ask for help because sometimes newbies need help setting up, and if you're an experienced camper, you can help.
• Are you towing a car? — If you are, you need to park it on your campsite or in designated overflow parking. If you park it on the road, it will obstruct other vehicles and can be a safety hazard.
• Be prepared when visiting the dump station — Don't wait until you get there to locate your hose, gloves, and other gear. Be ready to get the job done so that others in line can empty their tanks, too.
• Don't put your portable grill on a park table — grills are messy and can leave grease stains and food on a typical park table. If you’re using a grill that requires a table, bring your own.
• Shhh! Keep it down! — Quiet time at most RV parks is between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Arriving at a park after 10 p.m. can disrupt the entire camp, especially neighboring sites. To be polite, if you come in late, do a minimal set-up, get some rest, and take care of everything in the morning. The same goes if you arrive before breakfast. Settle in and be still for a bit.
• Keep your campsite tidy — It’s easy for loose paper, lawn chairs, and camping equipment to be strewn about the camp. Do your best to keep your site clean during your visit to an RV park. Pick up any items the wind can blow about and store your camping toys like kayaks and other equipment, side by side.
• Clean up after your dog — one of the biggest complaints I've heard in an RV park is that pet owners don't always pick up their animal's mess. It’s a hassle and not a fun job, but it's your dog.

Keep RV Camping Equipment Organized

Keeping camping gear organized between trips will ensure you have everything you need when you arrive at an RV park. Check out the Essential Camping Checklist before so you can keep your camping gear organized and secure. An organized camp will keep you and your neighbors happy and make for a more enjoyable outdoor adventure.