It’s a time when small towns in Florida triple in population. The best doctors are booked solid through next year. And Walmart can’t seem to keep that precious fast-dissolving RV toilet paper in stock…
It’s not a pandemic. It’s the “off-season” for RVing – except in Florida.
So when is RV season? Who defines it? And how can you take advantage of off-season deals, while still enjoying seasonal perks?
Discover the benefits of off-season RV camping, embrace summer vacations as a family, and maximize RV camping season.
When is RV Season?
The traditional RV season starts in April and goes on until October.
But really, RV season depends on your climate, your schedule, and your hobbies. Full-time RVers tend to move where the nice weather is. When the cold weather hits up north, they come south. When the south warms up, they head back north. That’s why we call them “snowbirds”.
Summer remains the busiest season for RV camping because most families choose to take their vacations while the kids are out of school.
However, if your hobbies include waking up at 4 a.m. to hit the ski slopes, then your season starts in October.
Let’s look at what you can expect from each season and how to make the most of the “off-season” in your area.
Maximize RV Season: Peak Season vs. Shoulder Season
The technical terms for “in-season” and “off-season” are “peak season” and “shoulder season.” Peak season is when areas are crowded and booking is more expensive.
But there’s this magical gray area between “in-season” and “off-season” called shoulder season.
Now if you plan your RV adventure right, you can take advantage of all the activities of peak season, while paying off-season prices.
Shoulder season happens in spring and fall. During this period, crowds tend to be smaller, prices trend lower, and the weather hits a beautiful sweet spot between sweltering heat and subzero temperatures.
This makes shoulder season an excellent option for those who prefer a more relaxed, budget-friendly experience while still enjoying the beauty and splendor of national parks.
By learning the shoulder season of the areas you want to visit, you’ll maximize your RV season (while staying well within budget).
Embrace RV Camping Season
Whatever season you find yourself in has its own perks. Knowing what to expect from each season helps you embrace the RV season you’re in.
Spring and Summer Months
For much of the country, the summer season is when RV season is in full swing. The delightful warmth, extended daylight, virtually hazard-free roads, and a variety of exciting places are what make spring and summer ideal for RV camping.
When RVing in the summer, you can enjoy…
- A lively atmosphere
- Bustling national parks
- Exotic swimming destinations
- Music festivals
All the things that come to mind when you think of an idyllic RV vacation typically happen in summer.
But if the climate is prone to high temperatures and 100% humidity –(I’m looking at you Florida, Texas, Louisiana) – then summer is actually your off-season.
Nobody enjoys melting like the Wicked Witch of the West. But if you want to try off-season camping in one of these states, then you may want to check out some of the natural springs. The water there stays cool even on the hottest summer days, and you’ll find some good summer camping deals.
Fall and Winter Months
The changing leaves and dropping temperatures signal the onset of off-season RV camping for most of the country, which offers a unique set of adventures.
Activities for fall and winter camping include:
- Leaf peeping
- Apple picking
- Corn mazes
- Pumpkin patches
- Skiing
- Snowmobiling
With the kids in school, there are fewer crowds clogging up campgrounds and state parks. You can also expect booking prices to drop in mid-October.
Now if you’re looking at an RV resort in one of those southern states I mentioned before, then make sure you plan your camping trip well in advance. It’s not uncommon for RV parks in Florida to book a year in advance because of the demand.
Whether you’re a fan of the cooler months or looking for a change of scenery, a fall or winter RV trip is an experience worth exploring.
There Is No Off-Season in RV Living
For the full-time RVer, it isn’t a season; it’s a lifestyle.
You move when the weather turns cold or when you want a change in scenery. You appreciate immersing yourself in an area for a long period of time. You like to see the seasons come and go from one vantage point.
If this is your dream, then long-term lot rentals may be a better option for you.
Long-Term Lot Rentals
Long-term lot rentals are an option for RVers who prefer a more stable camping experience. By renting a specific lot at a campground for a season or even a year, you enjoy the convenience of leaving your travel trailer in one place. You explore the area extensively and immerse yourself in the local community.
Long-term lot rentals are also more cost-effective because you’re paying a monthly rate as opposed to nightly or weekly. To really rack up on savings, choose a month in the shoulder season. That way, you can experience the season change firsthand and strike the best of both seasons.
Preparing Your RV for Changing Seasons
Embracing the different seasons of RV camping means you have to prepare your RV for changing weather conditions. This includes…
- Weatherproofing and insulating your RV
- Performing seasonal maintenance,
- Checking your tires’ air pressure before you travel
- Keeping your propane tanks full and in good condition
- And properly storing your RV when not in use.
By taking these steps, you can ensure your RV is ready when adventure calls, no matter the season.
So, whether you’re planning a summer road trip or a winter excursion, make sure your RV is ready to handle whatever Mother Nature has in store.
RV Storage
If you don’t plan to use your RV in the off-season, it’s vital to store your RV properly when you’re not using it for this extended period of time. Wherever you choose to park your RV, it’s best to make sure it’s covered to prevent roof damage from falling branches or collected debris.
There are several options for RV storage including indoor storage, outdoor storage, and peer-to-peer storage like Neighbor where you can store your RV nearby and undercover.
By taking these precautions, your RV will be ready and waiting for you to hit the road again.
Summary
RV season can be year-round; it all depends on where you want to camp. But many campgrounds have RV sites that are open all 12 months of the year.
By camping in the shoulder season, you can advantage of early spring and fall activities in must-visit locations like South Dakota and Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is an All-Season RV?
An all-season RV is designed for year-round use, equipped to handle summer and winter weather conditions comfortably. It is a great choice for adventurers who don’t want to be limited by the seasons. But before you buy, take a look at our RV buying guide.
Can You Live in an RV All Winter?
Yes, you can live in an RV all winter with the right preparations! Make sure your camper is properly insulated and that you have a heater that can keep up.
