RV Camping Reservations – Understanding How They Work

If you love RV camping because of the freedom it brings, doesn't booking a reservation months ahead defeat the purpose? If you're a full-timer or die-hard boondocker, then yes. It's all about hitting the road and see where it takes you. But if your family wants to see the Rockies in high season, taking the time to find a campsite well in advance is as essential as a good map. Skip the reservation process and you could find yourself stuck on the roadside faster than if you blew a tire.

Most state and national parks require reservations during the peak summer season, but don't panic. Some let you reserve a site up to 11 months in advance, so if you plan ahead, you'll have a spot. And don't gamble on grabbing one of the sites saved for late night arrivals. You're more likely to find gold in them there hills than an empty site summer vacation.

Once you know your travel plans and have a campground in mind, you can book via the internet or phone. When booking, be sure to clarify:

Arrival and departure dates (some camps restrict how long you can stay during high season)
Type of site you need (RV length, pull through, etc)
Hookups required (if any)
Number of people in your party
Pet policy (if applicable)

Once you've booked, expect an email or letter of confirmation. Check the confirmation carefully to ensure all the details correct. And don't forget to bring the printed confirmation with you - just in case.

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