The Type Of RV That RV Parks Can Turn You Away For Bringing

Being on the road is a way of life for many RV owners. The freedom of moving from one place to another and discovering new areas is one of the many great advantages of owning an RV. To help make that lifestyle possible, RV parks and resorts offer a place for owners to park, unwind, and explore the country. Many parks provide much needed amenities, such as electricity, waste disposal areas, and water stations to offer travelers a comforting and convenient setting to live out their life on the road.

While many beautiful RV parks and resorts are welcoming and happy to host the next traveler, some have specific rules on the type of RVs they accept. Namely, certain parks or resorts have rules against RVs that are too old. If you're new to RV travel and worry about being turned away, there are a few things to keep in mind while planning your travels so you avoid encountering any bumps along the way. To ease your mind, it's best to understand the rules and restrictions related to RV age, as well as why certain parks turn away RVs.

Some commercial parks or private resorts may enforce the "10-year rule," which allows them to turn away RVs that are older than 10 to 15 years. Keep in mind that as an RV ages, it can be more prone to breaking down, potentially disrupting the park's experience for other guests. Consider the consequences of a broken-down RV. Doesn't that mean it will take up space for longer periods, which limits other potential users from getting access?

In other cases, the age rule may apply to aesthetics, as some parks try to keep a modern and welcoming ambience to uplift everyone's experience. Think of it as a dress code for RVs. With age can come more damage, wear and tear, and an unpleasant appearance at times. The 10-year rule is more common in RV resorts that focus on an aesthetically pleasing environment, making it understandable that they'd be picky about the looks of your RV. A worn-down RV also gives the impression that your vehicle might not be in the best condition. If you haven't fixed the outside, what guarantees that your RV is running fine on the inside?

Don't worry, if you own an old RV, there are ways to get around this restriction. For starters, just because your campervan is vintage, or a classic, it doesn't mean that it hasn't aged like fine wine. More often than not, you can snap a photo of your well-maintained vehicle and send it to the park for approval. As long as you're doing maintenance checks, taking care of any damages, and upgrading parts where necessary, it's very likely that you won't be turned away.

To avoid any surprises that could disrupt your plans, it's always best to call ahead and ask about park guidelines or restrictions. Worst case scenario, a small detour can lead you to a more relaxed and welcoming campground — such as a state or national park — where age or vehicle type are not an issue. While these limitations can seem inconvenient, it is a way to keep all types of park visitors satisfied, ensuring a positive experience without causing issues for others as a result of damaged RVs.