Did you know that 10 million American families already own an RV, while 17 million more hope to buy one someday?
If you’re a camping enthusiast, you may hope to join the ranks of RV ownership yourself. Then again, if you’ve always gone camping in tents, the concept of RV camping might be new to you.
What is RV camping, exactly? How do RV campgrounds differ from other campgrounds? And why should you consider this style of camping for your future travels?
Keep reading for the best RV camping tips and where to go RV camping near you.
1. All the Comforts of Home
Let’s start with the most obvious benefit of RV camping: the comfort level.
Sleeping in a tent can be a fun experience, but much depends on the weather, the type of ground, and other external factors. You’re also limited in what foods you can pack in a cooler and what you can cook over a campfire.
When you camp in an RV, all of those concerns go away. You’ll have a comfortable bed to sleep in and a real kitchen to cook your meals. If the weather is exceptionally hot, cold, windy, or rainy, you’ll still have a great time in a climate-controlled environment.
2. RVs Hold All Your Belongings
Forget cramming your camping gear and sporting equipment into the back of your car. If you fly to your destination, you’re even more limited in how much you can bring.
Contrast that with your RV, which has plenty of space for “overpacking.” Want to bring your bicycles, kayaks, or tennis rackets? No problem. Do the kids want to bring their favorite toys and games? There’s space for that too.
If you want the option of traditional camping, you can always bring along your tent, hammocks, and sleeping bags too. That way, if the weather is great, you can still enjoy sleeping out under the stars.
3. Save Money at an RV Campground
Let’s face it: Vacations are expensive. When you factor in airfare, hotel rooms, restaurant meals, and other costs, the average family of four will spend $4,580 on a week’s vacation!
RV camping isn’t just fun and convenient — it’s also incredibly economical. You can drive to your destination, bringing your “hotel room” and “restaurant” along with you. Even if you factor in the cost of fuel and campground site fees, you’re still saving tons of money.
Just how much can you save? A family of four who goes RV camping can save up to 64% over the costs of other types of travel.
4. You Can Bring Everyone (Including the Pets)
Is there one member of your family who isn’t thrilled with sleeping in a tent? Is someone reluctant to give up even a few nights in front of the TV? Are your kids terrified of bugs?
Whatever the case, RV camping solves all these worries. Members of your party who want a more “rustic” experience can still have it, while those who prefer more comfort will be happy inside the RV.
Another bonus: Most RV campgrounds allow pets, which means you can bring your furry family members along for the adventure. If you’re bringing your pup along, be sure you have everything you’ll need to keep him safe and secure.
5. Easy Access to Nature and Amenities
Most RV campgrounds are located in beautiful areas with plenty of great attractions nearby.
There’s a good chance that hiking or biking trails and rivers or lakes are just a few steps from your campsite. Here at the Land of Waterfalls, we’re a stone’s throw away from the natural beauty of Dupont State Forest and Pisgah National Forest.
When you’re done exploring nature, take a short drive to Hendersonville, North Carolina. Shopping opportunities abound to buy locally-made art and handicrafts and unique gift items. You’ll also have the chance to try beer, wine, and cider from local vineyards and breweries.
6. Healthier Eating
Restaurant meals aren’t just expensive. They’re usually unhealthy too. It’s okay to eat out every once in a while, but a week or two of restaurant meals won’t do your health any favors.
Another great benefit of RV camping is the chance to prepare your own healthy meals. You can stock up on essentials before you head out or bring what you already have in your fridge and pantry. If anyone in your family has food allergies or dietary restrictions, this can be a real game-changer!
Having your own “kitchen on wheels” is also a wonderful chance to experience local products. You can shop at a farmer’s market for the freshest produce or pick up some locally caught seafood. You’ll expand your palate and support small local businesses at the same time, which is a win-win for everyone.
7. Spend Quality Time Together
We saved the most important tip for last: the chance to spend real quality time with your loved ones.
When you go RV camping, you’re rarely in a rush. You’re not rushing to an airport or spending hours in security lines. Life slows down and distractions are minimized. Those long miles on the road allow plenty of time for meaningful conversations and new explorations.
Once you arrive at your destination, you can do as much or as little as you want. Watch a movie, go for a walk, read books, or sit back and enjoy the scenery. Once the sun goes down, gather around the campfire for a chance to relax and reconnect.
Isn’t that what every family vacation should be about anyway?
Where to Go RV Camping in North Carolina
So, what do you think? Is RV camping the right choice for your family?
We’re sure you’ll agree that the benefits speak for themselves. Once you know how to camp in an RV, you won’t want to travel any other way!
Is your camping journey taking you to the great state of North Carolina? Is Land of the Waterfalls on your RV campground checklist?
If not, it should be. Click here to view our available RV campsites and learn more about this beautiful part of Pisgah Forest.