Campground costs have skyrocketed in recent years, with premium sites now commanding hotel-level prices. We surveyed experienced RVers to find out what they're actually paying for high-end campgrounds—and whether it's worth it.

The Shocking Reality: $100+ is the New Normal

Gone are the days when a full-hookup campground site cost $20-30 per night. Today's RVers are facing a dramatically different pricing landscape. One veteran RVer shared that KOA sites that cost $10-20 in the early 1980s now command $100-200 for the same amenities.

What RVers Are Actually Paying

Based on real experiences from the RV community, here's what premium campgrounds are charging:

Oceanfront and Beach Access ($180-250+)

Oceanfront sites command the highest premiums. Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay charges $179-205 per night, with Saturday nights hitting $205. Camp Gulf, with beach walking distance, exceeds $250 per night. Bar Harbor KOA's oceanfront sites cost around $175-193 per night.

Resort-Style Amenities ($150-190)

West Glacier KOA Resort at $180 per night includes adult-only pools, hot tubs, ice cream shops, live music, and alcohol service. Disney's Fort Wilderness charges $180 per night, though many feel it's overpriced if you're mainly visiting the parks.

Popular Tourist Destinations ($100-165)

High-demand areas near national parks and tourist destinations regularly charge $100-165 per night. Big Meadows in Townsend, TN, near Smoky Mountains, quotes over $100 per night. Nashville area campgrounds hit $180 during peak seasons.

What Justifies These High Costs?

Premium Amenities That Matter

RVers who pay premium prices cite specific amenities that justify the cost:

• Ocean or waterfront access: Direct beach access or water views
• Resort-style pools: Adult-only areas, swim-up bars, hot tubs
• Entertainment: Live music, organized activities, staff-led events
• Dining and services: On-site restaurants, ice cream shops, concierge services
• Security and maintenance: Gated access, well-maintained facilities
• Location premium: Walking distance to attractions, beaches, or national parks

The Experience Factor

Many RVers justify high costs by viewing it as a complete vacation experience rather than just a place to park. One RVer described paying $1,200 for six nights at a premium resort, saying it "felt like we were on a Caribbean island."

Budget-Friendly Alternatives RVers Swear By

State Parks: $20-30 Per Night

State parks remain the budget-conscious RVer's best friend, typically charging $20-30 per night for sites with basic hookups. Many experienced RVers stick to state parks and save hundreds per trip.

Elks Lodges: $50 Per Night

Elks Club locations offer RV parking for around $50 per night, often including restaurant access and recreational facilities like pickleball courts.

Boondocking and National Parks: $0-15

With an America the Beautiful Annual Pass, many national park campgrounds cost just $15 per night. Free boondocking on public lands costs nothing but requires self-sufficiency.

Market Trends: What's Driving These Prices?

Several factors are contributing to the dramatic increase in campground costs:

• Increased RV popularity: More people trying RVing means higher demand
• Limited supply: Not enough new campgrounds to meet demand
• Inflation impact: Operating costs have increased significantly
• Resort-style expectations: RVers now expect hotel-level amenities
• Seasonal pricing: Dynamic pricing based on demand and special events

When Premium Prices Make Sense

Based on RVer experiences, premium campground costs are justified when:

• The location offers unique access (oceanfront, national parks)
• You plan to use most of the resort amenities
• It's a special occasion or annual splurge vacation
• The total experience replaces what would be multiple separate expenses
• You're staying multiple nights to spread the cost

Smart Strategies for Managing High Campground Costs

Mix Premium and Budget Stays

Many experienced RVers recommend alternating between premium resorts for special experiences and budget-friendly options for transit nights and longer stays.

Book Strategically

Avoid peak season and weekend premiums when possible. Some campgrounds charge significantly less Sunday through Thursday.

Consider Membership Programs

Camping membership programs and discount clubs can provide significant savings at participating campgrounds, though read the fine print carefully.

The Bottom Line

High-end campground costs have become a reality in today's RV market, with premium sites regularly charging $150-250+ per night. While these prices shock many veteran RVers who remember $20 camping, the amenities and experiences at top-tier campgrounds have also evolved significantly.

The key is being strategic about when to splurge and when to save. Use premium campgrounds for special occasions and destinations where the amenities enhance your experience, but don't feel pressured to pay resort prices for every night on the road.