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Campground Cost Comparison

Compare RV parks, campgrounds, and find the best value for your stay

Smart Campground Shopping

Don't just look at the nightly rate! Compare total costs including fees, amenities, and weekly/monthly discounts. This calculator helps you find the true cost and best value for your RV camping needs.

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💰 Money-Saving Tips

Book Weekly or Monthly
Most parks offer 10-30% discounts for weekly stays and 30-50% off monthly rates
Membership Programs
Passport America, Thousand Trails, and Good Sam can save 50% or more if you stay frequently
Avoid Peak Season
Rates can be 30-50% lower during shoulder seasons (spring/fall)
Watch for Hidden Fees
Electric metering, resort fees, and extra person charges can add $5-15/day
Public Parks for Budget Stays
National Forest and BLM sites often cost $10-20/night with basic amenities
Boondocking & Harvest Hosts
Free camping on public lands or $0-20 stays at farms, wineries, and breweries

📊 Campground Type Comparison

TypeTypical CostProsCons
🏕️ Private RV Parks$40-80/nightFull hookups, amenities, convenient locationsHigher cost, crowded, less scenic
🏞️ State/National Parks$20-40/nightBeautiful locations, affordable, well-maintainedLimited hookups, book months ahead, length limits
🎫 Membership Parks$10-30/night*Huge savings if you travel oftenUpfront membership cost, blackout dates
🌲 BoondockingFree-$20/nightVery cheap, remote locations, peacefulNo hookups, requires self-sufficiency

* After membership fee amortization

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between nightly, weekly, and monthly rates?

Campgrounds typically offer discounted rates for longer stays. Weekly rates average 15-20% less than 7 nightly rates, while monthly rates can be 30-50% less than 30 nightly rates. Always calculate the total cost to find the best value.

Are membership programs worth it?

It depends on your travel frequency. Passport America ($44/year, 50% off at 1,900+ parks) pays for itself after about 3-4 nights. Thousand Trails ($500-800/year, unlimited stays) works well if you camp 15+ nights annually at member parks.

What hidden fees should I watch for?

Common hidden fees include metered electricity ($3-8/day), WiFi charges ($5-10), pet fees ($2-5/day), extra person fees ($3-5/day beyond 2 people), propane refills, and resort fees. Always ask about the total cost before booking.

When is the best time to book for lower rates?

Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) typically offer the best rates, often 30-50% less than peak summer. Weekdays are also cheaper than weekends. Book 2-3 months ahead for popular destinations during peak season.

How much should I budget for campground costs?

Budget $30-50/night for full-time RVing on average. Mix expensive resort parks ($60-100) with budget options like public parks ($20-30) and boondocking (free) to keep costs down. Monthly rates at one location can average $25-35/night.