A question often arises among RVers about the difference between an RV park vs. RV resort. While both offer a place to park and set up during your travels, the distinction between the two is significant, primarily related to amenities and atmosphere.
However, we have visited many RV campgrounds with the word “Resort” in the name and it was not exactly what we would consider a resort-type atmosphere. So do your homework before booking.
In this blog post, we shed light on this topic, providing clarity to help you make informed decisions about where to make reservations during your RV travels.
We break down the key differences in amenities, cost, and overall experience.
Understanding these distinctions will help you choose the right option for your needs and preferences.
Is A RV Park And A RV Resort The Same Thing?
Knowing where to park your home-on-wheels is essential when planning an RV trip. You might have encountered terms like RV park and RV resort and wondered how they differ.
An RV park is a simple, functional option for RV travelers. It’s like a campground but tailored for RVs. These parks provide basic facilities such as water, electricity, and sewer hookups.
Additional amenities like laundry rooms, restrooms, and Wi-Fi access may also be available. If you’re looking for a straightforward place to park your RV with no frills attached, an RV park is a practical choice.
On the other side of the spectrum, we have RV resorts. RV resorts offer a more luxurious experience. These establishments are typically larger than standard RV parks and have various upscale amenities.
You might find swimming pools, fitness centers, restaurants, golf courses, and other recreational facilities within their premises. Some even organize social events for their guests.
If you want a vacation-like experience with many amenities, an RV resort is the way to go.
RV Park Vs. RV Resort: Features And Amenities
One of the most impactful decisions you’ll make in planning an RV adventure is where to park.
Choosing between an RV park and an RV resort can significantly shape your travel experience, as each offers unique features and amenities.
RV parks provide essential services that meet the basic needs of the average traveler. These typically include a pool, a playground, an indoor clubhouse, and outdoor sports areas for games like horseshoes and basketball.
RV parks cater to those who seek a simple, functional environment to rest and recharge.
RV resorts offer an affluent, vacation-like atmosphere with a more comprehensive array of recreational activities.
Resorts often feature multiple pools, water slides, splash parks, floating rivers, pickleball and tennis courts, fishing areas, arcades, and on-site food options.
Knowing the difference between these two types of accommodations is crucial because it helps you align your stay with your expectations and preferences.
For instance, an RV park might be your best bet if you’re looking for a serene and straightforward stay.
However, an RV resort would be more fitting if you’re after a more comprehensive resort-style experience full of activities and luxury.
We typically choose RV resorts when we camp with our grandkids. All of the amenities, like the pool, waterslide, snowball, ice cream stands, etc, help keep them busy and entertained. And for us, it is totally worth the additional expense.
When we camp on our own, we try to use our camping memberships like Thousand Trails, RPI, Passport America, Harvest Hosts, and Boondockers Welcome to stay for free or as little money as possible.
If you are interested in any of these memberships, the details are below!
1️⃣ Thousand Trails
This membership is great for anyone who camps a lot and wants to save some big $$$$.
For the absolute best contact for a New Thousand Trails Membership, contact Jim and Brandy Reneau by phone at 770-622-4188 or email them at [email protected] and mention RVBlogger. They will answer all of your questions and get you the best price available.
If you want to buy a Used Thousand Trails Membership, no one is more knowledgeable than Kimberly at Campground Memberships Outlet. Contact Kim by phone at 1-800-272-0401 or email her at [email protected] and mention RVBlogger!
2️⃣ Harvest Hosts, Boondockers Welcome, and the Golf Package
With over 8,000 locations, you are sure to find a unique free place to stay overnight. Use discount code RVBlogger to save 15%!
3️⃣ Passport America
Save up to 50% on campgrounds all around the country! Use discount code RVBlogger to get 4 months added to your annual membership! Join Now – Use discount code RVBlogger and Get 4 Free Months
4️⃣ KOA
You can join for $36 and save 10% on your campground reservations at KOA. (sorry no discount code for this membership)
5️⃣ The Dyrt Pro
This is a great membership for all types of campers. We use it mostly for great boondocking locations and for downloadable maps. You can also save up to 40% off campground stays with over 1000 participating campgrounds. Use discount code RVBlogger and try it for free for 30 days!
6️⃣ RV Life Pro and RV Trip Wizard
This is by far our favorite membership. We use it daily to plan our trips, read reviews, and find great campgrounds along our route, and we use the GPS, too! Use discount code RVBLOGGER25 and save 25% off your membership!
Check out our YouTube Video below for all the details:
How Long Can You Stay At An RV Resort?
If you’re planning an extended RV trip, you might wonder how long you can stay at an RV resort.
The answer to this question is not one-size-fits-all because it largely depends on the specific policies of each resort. Many RV resorts have a maximum stay limit, often around 14 days.
The 14-day policy helps ensure that all guests can enjoy the resort’s amenities and prevents any single RV from dominating a prime spot for too long.
However, some RV resorts offer seasonal sites. With these options, you can park your RV for an entire season, which could be several months.
Renting a temporary space can be an excellent option for those who want to establish a home base in a new location or escape harsher climates during winter or summer.
How Much Are RV Resorts Per Night?
When mapping out your RV journey, a key element to consider is the cost of your accommodations.
The nightly rates for RV resorts can vary widely, influenced by several factors you should know.
- Seasonality: Similar to other vacation accommodations like hotels, RV resorts often have peak seasons when prices are higher. These align with popular travel periods, such as summer or holiday seasons.
- Duration of Stay: The length of your stay can also affect the price. Some resorts may provide discounts for more extended stays, making the overall cost more affordable than the initial nightly rate might suggest.
- Site Type: The type of site you choose at the resort can also affect the cost. Premium sites offering extra space, superior views, or added amenities like private picnic tables or fire pits will typically come at a higher price compared to standard sites.
Given these variables, it’s challenging to provide a precise price range.
However, as a general guideline, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $150 per night at an RV resort. We have found RV resorts as expensive as $275 per night! Yikes!
Do RV Parks Allow Tents?
Some campgrounds cater to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, offering designated sites for both RVs and tents.
This arrangement works well for larger groups where some members prefer the comfort of an RV, while others crave the traditional camping experience in a tent.
However, it’s important to note that policies vary significantly across RV parks and campgrounds.
It’s always wise to check directly with the management before you arrive and set up a tent.
What’s The Biggest RV Resort In The U.S.?
Finding the largest RV resort in the U.S. can be quite a task, as resorts constantly move with expansions and new establishments.
However, we’ve identified a few that have marked their territory with expansive landscapes and many amenities.
Okeechobee KOA Resort
The Okeechobee KOA Resort presents a serene environment for guests to relax amidst gorgeous surroundings.
Near Lake Okeechobee, Florida’s largest freshwater lake, the 750-site campground offers a variety of amenities, such as a nine-hole golf course, two pools (one for families and one for adults), including a hot tub, a bar and lounge, and a fitness center.
Brennan Beach RV Resort
In New York, Brennan Beach RV Resort stands out with its unique beachfront location.
Here, guests can enjoy the dual experience of camping and beach life.
Brennan Beach offers many waterfront sites, a large pool, and a thoroughly planned activity schedule.
Its proximity to Six Mile Creek Winery and Selkirk Shores State Park makes it an excellent choice for nature and wine lovers.
Carolina Pine RV Resort
Carolina Pines RV Resort, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, is where comfort meets convenience.
With spacious sites, guests can enjoy solitude surrounded by nature’s beauty.
The resort boasts a well-equipped gym, multiple swimming pools, and a variety of recreational activities.
Its location near popular attractions such as the North Carolina Aquarium and Fort Macon State Park enhances its appeal.
Red Oaks RV Resort
Red Oaks RV Resort is a sizeable Floridian RV community spread across 130 tree-filled acres.
The resort offers over 1,000 full hookup sites spacious enough to accommodate RVs of any size.
Red Oaks is known for its fun and adventurous atmosphere.
Activities include line and square dances, jam sessions, quilting bees, bingo games, and water aerobics.
Thousand Trails Orlando
Thousand Trails Orlando is an outdoor paradise spread across a sprawling 255-acre property. We stay here quite a bit over the winter months.
At its heart lies a 60-acre spring-fed lake with white sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing or casting a fishing line.
Visitors of all ages can enjoy various amenities, such as swimming pools, playgrounds, clubhouses, and fitness centers for entertainment.
The resort also offers unique features like mini golf courses and a butterfly garden, making it a delightful place for family vacations.
Final Thoughts About RV Resorts and RV Parks
Understanding the intricacies between an RV park and an RV resort can significantly affect your travel experience.
Both offer distinct features and cater to different needs, making it essential to discern which aligns best with your expectations.
RV parks provide a more straightforward, cost-effective solution for travelers looking for a simple place to stay. They offer basic amenities such as hookups, laundry facilities, and sometimes Wi-Fi.
RV resorts elevate the camping experience with their extensive amenities and services. From swimming pools to fitness centers and many planned activities, these resorts provide a luxurious stay.
The choice between an RV park and an RV resort ultimately boils down to your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you’re seeking.
If you appreciate simplicity and are traveling on a budget, an RV park may be your ideal choice. But, if you’re looking for a vacation-like experience with many amenities, an RV resort might be worth considering.
Ultimately, whether you choose an expansive resort like Okeechobee KOA Resort or a more straightforward RV park, what matters most is that you enjoy your journey.
The open road is full of surprises and adventure, and your choice of accommodation should enhance, not hinder your experience.
So, consider your options, make an informed decision, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Related Reading:
–How To Handle Barking Dogs At A Campground
–25 Campground Rules Everyone Should Follow
–10 Questions To Ask Before Starting Full-Time RV Living
–Is It Legal To Dump RV Grey Water on The Ground?
About the Author:
Mike Scarpignato is an avid RVer who owns a Class C RV and a Class A RV. He loves to travel with his wife Susan and write blog articles about the RV lifestyle.
Mike and Susan also make YouTube videos on the RVBlogger YouTube channel.
