Campsites All Booked? How to Find RV Campsites With No Reservations
Posted by Happy Campers Store on Jul 15th 2024
When You Just Want to Pick-up and Go, How to Find RV Campsites with No Reservations
Finding RV campsites can be a daunting task, especially when all the popular sites are already reserved. But fear not, as there are still plenty of options available for those looking to embark on a RV adventure. Whether you prefer the convenience of online reservation websites or are willing to take a chance on finding a last-minute cancellation, there are options to suit every traveler's needs.
The RV Industry Association recently reported that campground availability and the amenities offered at campgrounds are key factors to the draw and retention of RVers.
"This data is backed up by the 2021 North American Camping Report findings that indicates
full-service hookups are one of the top ten amenities sought by campers (29%) making
campground selections, yet this new campground report shows that only 8% of public campsites
and 51% of private campsites have full-service hookups. Compounding this problem is the fact
that during the during the peak camping season of June, July, and August, 76% of all
campsites are booked , meaning it is difficult for RVers to find a campsite that meets
their needs."
Reserving Those Choice RV Campsites With All the Amenities Takes Some Planning
When it comes to finding RV campsites, one of the easiest options is to use popular reservation websites. These websites allow you to browse through a wide selection of campsites, check availability, and make reservations all from the comfort of your own home. The draw back of these reservation sites is that everybody uses them. This means that campsites good reserved and booked up months in advance. So, if you're the type of RVer who wants the best campsites with all the amenities - it's best to plan ahead.
How to Reserve the Best RV Campsites:
The choice RV campsites get booked quick for a reason. Reserving the best RV campsites can be a competitive process, especially during peak seasons. Here are some tips to help you secure the best RV campsites:
1. Plan in advance:
Start your search and reservation process as early as possible. Many popular campgrounds allow reservations up to six months in advance, so it's a good idea to book your desired campsite as soon as the reservation window opens.
2. Research campgrounds:
Look for campgrounds that offer the amenities and facilities you desire. Read reviews and check campground websites for information on the available RV sites, hookups, and any restrictions or regulations.
3. Check availability:
Use campground reservation websites or call the campground directly to check the availability of RV campsites for your desired dates. Be flexible with your travel dates if possible, as it may increase your chances of finding an available site.
4. Be aware of peak seasons:
Popular campgrounds tend to fill up quickly during weekends, holidays, and summer months. Consider planning your trip during off-peak seasons or weekdays to increase your chances of securing a desirable campsite.
5. Set up alerts:
Some campground reservation websites allow you to set up alerts for specific campgrounds or dates. This can help you stay informed about any cancellations or newly available campsites.
6. Consider alternative options:
If your preferred campground is fully booked, look for nearby campgrounds or alternative locations that offer similar amenities and attractions. Being open to different options can increase your chances of finding a great RV campsite.
7. Be prepared to be flexible:
If you are unable to reserve the exact campsite you want, be prepared to choose an alternative site within the campground. Sometimes, even a slightly less desirable site can still provide a great camping experience.
Remember, the availability of RV campsites can vary depending on the location and time of year. It's always a good idea to plan ahead and be flexible to secure the best RV campsite for your needs.
Popular "Plan Ahead" RV Campground Reservation Websites
1. ReserveAmerica:
ReserveAmerica is one of the largest reservation websites in the country, offering a wide range of RV campsites in national parks and state parks across the United States. You can search by location, amenities, and availability to find the perfect spot for your RV adventure.
2. Recreation.gov:
Recreation.gov is another popular reservation website that offers campsites in national parks, forests, and other public lands. With Recreation.gov, you can easily search for RV campsites by location, availability, and amenities, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your next camping trip.
3. KOA:
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) is a well-known chain of campgrounds that offers RV campsites across the country. With over 500 locations to choose from, KOA makes it easy to find a campsite that suits your needs. You can search for campsites by location, amenities, and availability on the KOA website.
4. Hipcamp:
Hipcamp is a unique reservation website that offers a wide range of camping options, including RV campsites on private land. With Hipcamp, you can search for campsites by location, amenities, and activities, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure. We're going to look at this tool in more detail deeper in this post.
I Didn't Plan Ahead, but I Just Wanna Camp!
OK. So, what do you do when you want to go camping, but every RV campsite appears to be booked up for the entire year?
Finding RV campsites without reservations can be a bit more challenging, but there are still resources available to help you locate available campsites.
How to Find RV Campsites Without Reservations:
Here is a list of resources you can use to find RV campsites without reservations:
1. National Forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lands:
These public lands often have dispersed camping areas where you can park your RV without reservations. Check the websites of the specific national forests or BLM offices in the area you plan to visit for information on dispersed camping rules and locations.
2. State and County Parks:
Some state and county parks have first-come, first-served campsites that do not require reservations. Check the websites or contact the park offices to inquire about availability and any specific rules or restrictions.
Traveler Tip for RVers on The Road: Google "Parks and Rec (city name)"
Here is a list of popular first-come, first-served RV campsites across different regions:
1. Yosemite National Park - California, USA
2. Glacier National Park - Montana, USA
3. Olympic National Park - Washington, USA
4. Grand Teton National Park - Wyoming, USA
5. Joshua Tree National Park - California, USA
6. Arches National Park - Utah, USA
7. Rocky Mountain National Park - Colorado, USA
8. Zion National Park - Utah, USA
9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Tennessee/North Carolina, USA
10. Acadia National Park - Maine, USA
11. Banff National Park - Alberta, Canada
12. Jasper National Park - Alberta, Canada
13. Cape Hatteras National Seashore - North Carolina, USA
14. Assateague Island National Seashore - Maryland/Virginia, USA
16. Lake Tahoe - California/Nevada, USA
17. Mount Rainier National Park - Washington, USA
18. Redwood National and State Parks - California, USA
19. Custer State Park - South Dakota, USA
20. Padre Island National Seashore - Texas, USA
Please note that availability at these campsites can vary, so it's always a good idea to check with the respective park or campground for the most up-to-date information on availability and any specific rules or regulations.
3. Campground Directories:
Use campground directories such as Campendium, RV Park Reviews, or AllStays to search for campgrounds that offer first-come, first-served sites. These directories often provide user reviews and information on amenities, fees, and availability.
4. Mobile Apps:
There are several mobile apps available that can help you find RV campsites without reservations. Some popular apps include RV Parky, The Dyrt, and Hipcamp. These apps provide information on campgrounds, availability, and user reviews.
Which Apps Show Real-time campsite availability for RVs?
There are several apps that provide real-time campsite availability information. Here are some popular ones:
a. Recreation.gov:
This app allows you to search and book campsites on federal lands, including national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. It provides real-time availability and allows you to make reservations directly through the app.
b. ReserveAmerica:
ReserveAmerica is a widely used app for booking campsites in state parks, national forests, and other public campgrounds. It offers real-time availability and allows you to make reservations on the go.
c. Campendium:
Campendium is a comprehensive camping app that includes real-time availability information for various types of campsites, including RV parks, public lands, and boondocking spots. It also provides user reviews and ratings.
d. The Dyrt:
The Dyrt is a popular camping app that offers real-time availability for campgrounds across the United States. It includes both public and private campgrounds and provides user reviews, photos, and detailed information about each campground.
e. Hipcamp:
Hipcamp is an app that focuses on unique camping experiences, including private land camping, glamping, and RV parks. It provides real-time availability and allows you to book campsites directly through the app.
f. AllStays Camp & RV:
AllStays Camp & RV is a comprehensive camping app that includes real-time availability for campgrounds, RV parks, and other camping options. It also provides information on amenities, reviews, and contact details.
These apps can help you find and book campsites with real-time availability, but it's always a good idea to double-check with the campground or park directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
7. Online Forums and Social Media Groups:
Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to RV camping and ask for recommendations on finding campsites without reservations. Experienced campers can often provide valuable insights and suggestions.
8. Local Visitor Centers and Ranger Stations:
When you arrive at your destination, stop by local visitor centers or ranger stations to inquire about nearby campsites that do not require reservations. The staff can provide information on availability and any specific regulations.
9. Boondocking and Free Camping:
If you prefer a more spontaneous approach to finding RV campsites, there are also websites that cater to those who prefer no-reservation camping. These websites allow you to find campsites that do not require reservations, making it easier to find a spot at the last minute.
Some of the best "no reservation rv camping websites" include:
a. Boondockers Welcome:
Boondockers Welcome is a website that connects RV travelers with hosts who offer free RV camping on their property. With Boondockers Welcome, you can search for hosts by location and amenities, making it easy to find a spot for your RV without a reservation.
b. Harvest Hosts:
Harvest Hosts is another website that offers no-reservation RV camping options. With Harvest Hosts, you can stay at wineries, farms, and other unique locations for a small fee. You can search for hosts by location and amenities on the Harvest Hosts website.
c. Free Campsites:
Free Campsites is a website that offers a wide range of free camping options for RV travelers. With Free Campsites, you can search for campsites by location, amenities, and activities, making it easy to find a spot for your RV without a reservation.
Remember, finding RV campsites without reservations may require some flexibility and willingness to explore different options. It's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your preferred campsites are full.
How to Snag a Last Minute RV Campsite Cancellation
For those who are willing to take a chance on finding a last-minute cancellation, there are websites that specialize in helping travelers find RV campsites that have become available at the last minute. These websites allow you to search for cancellations and book a campsite on short notice. There are a lot of campsite notification tools out there, and they all work fairly similarly.
We're going to highlight HipCamps and Campnab, we don't have any affiliation with them - just like the overall feel of the tools.
Using Hipcamp's to Snag Last Minute RV Campsite Cancellations:
To use Hipcamp's alert feature to snag cancelled RV campsite reservations, follow these steps:
1. Visit the
Hipcamp website or open the Hipcamp app on your device.
• iphone
2. Sign in to your Hipcamp account or create a new account if you don't have one already.
3. Navigate to the "Alerts" section on the Hipcamp website or app.
You can usually find it in the menu or settings.
4. Set up your alert preferences.
Enter the location or specific campground where you want to find cancelled RV campsite reservations. You can also specify the dates or time frame you are interested in.
5. Enable notifications.
Make sure you have notifications enabled on your device for the Hipcamp app or website. This will ensure that you receive alerts when cancellations become available.
6. Save your alert.
Once you have set up your preferences, save the alert. Hipcamp will then monitor the availability of cancelled RV campsite reservations based on your criteria.
7. Act quickly.
When you receive an alert notification about a cancelled reservation, act quickly to secure the campsite. Cancellations can be in high demand, so it's important to be ready to book as soon as possible.
8. Book the campsite.
Follow the instructions provided in the alert notification to book the cancelled RV campsite reservation. Make sure to complete the booking process promptly to secure the site.
Hipcamp's alert feature is a useful tool for finding cancelled RV campsite reservations. By setting up alerts and being proactive, you can increase your chances of snagging a cancelled reservation and securing a desirable campsite.
Hipcamp is a travel stay app for campers (like the outdoor version of AirBnB!), and TK n Earl RV Life has got some tips to help you have the best experience.
Using Campnab to Snag Last Minute RV Campsite Cancellations:
Campnab is another great resource for monitoring and snagging last minute RV campsite cancellations. Campnab.com is a website that helps RVers find last-minute campsite cancellations.
HOW MUCH DOES CAMPNAB COST?
Pay-per-use scans range from $10 – $20 each. Memberships start at $10/month, and afford frequent campers more options.
How to use Campnab to Snag a Last Minute RV Campsite Cancellation:
1. Visit the Campnab.com website at https://campnab.com/.
2. On the homepage, you will see a search bar where you can enter the location or campground name where you want to find a campsite.
3. Enter the desired location or campground name in the search bar and click on the "Search" button.
4. Campnab.com will then search for last-minute campsite cancellations in the specified location or campground.
5. Once the search is complete, you will be shown a list of available campsites that have recently become available due to cancellations.
6. Each campsite listing will provide information such as the campground name, site number, dates available, and any additional details provided by the campground.
7. If you find a campsite that suits your needs, click on the "Book Now" button to proceed with the reservation.
8. Campnab.com will redirect you to the campground's official website or booking platform to complete the reservation process.
9. Follow the instructions provided by the campground's website or booking platform to finalize your reservation and make the necessary payment.
10. Enjoy your last-minute RV camping adventure!
Campnab.com is a convenient tool for RVers who are looking for last-minute campsite cancellations. It saves time and effort by aggregating available campsites in one place, making it easier to find and book a campsite on short notice. Remember there are a lot of people using apps like this so (no guarantees), but here are some tips to help you optimize your chances using the app;
Here are some tips on using the Campnab app effectively:
1. Set up notifications:
Enable push notifications on the Campnab app to receive real-time alerts whenever new last-minute campsite cancellations become available. This will help you stay updated and increase your chances of securing a campsite.
2. Customize your search preferences:
Use the app's settings to customize your search preferences. You can specify the desired location, campground amenities, dates, and other criteria to narrow down the search results and find the most suitable campsites for your needs.
3. Be flexible with your dates and locations:
Last-minute cancellations can be unpredictable, so it's helpful to be flexible with your travel dates and locations. Consider exploring different campgrounds or adjusting your travel plans to increase your chances of finding available campsites.
4. Act quickly:
When you receive a notification or find an available campsite that meets your requirements, act quickly to secure the reservation. Last-minute cancellations can be in high demand, so it's important to book as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
5. Check campground policies:
Before booking a campsite through the app, make sure to review the campground's policies, rules, and any additional fees. This will ensure that you are aware of any specific requirements or restrictions.
6. Leave reviews and feedback:
After your camping experience, consider leaving reviews and feedback on the Campnab app. This will help other users make informed decisions and contribute to the community of RVers using the app.
7. Contact customer support if needed:
If you encounter any issues or have questions while using the Campnab app, don't hesitate to reach out to their customer support. They will be able to assist you and provide any necessary guidance.
Remember, Campnab is designed to help you find last-minute campsite cancellations, but availability is not guaranteed. It's always a good idea to have backup options or alternative campgrounds in mind in case your preferred campsites are not available.
In conclusion:
Finding RV campsites when all the popular sites are reserved may seem like a daunting task, but with the right resources and a bit of flexibility, it is still possible to find the perfect spot for your RV adventure. Whether you prefer the convenience of online reservation websites, are willing to take a chance on finding a last-minute cancellation, or are open to no-reservation camping options, there are plenty of options available to suit every traveler's needs. So pack up your RV, hit the road, and start exploring the great outdoors!