How To Find RV Parks Without a 10 Year Rule Near Me

Unfortunately, owners of RVs manufactured more than 10 years ago face a shortened list of RV parks that will accept their reservations. The RV 10-year rule is something that all RV owners should know about, but if you own an older RV, it’s natural to ask, “How do I find RV parks without a 10-year rule near me?”

We’ll provide a list of parks without the 10-year rule below, but let’s begin by explaining the rule for those who aren’t familiar. 

What Is the RV 10-Year Rule?

The RV 10-year rule is a regulation that some campgrounds use to maintain certain appearances. In other words, they want to prevent old, run-down RV models from becoming an eyesore in their park and deterring other guests. Campgrounds that use this policy won’t allow owners of RVs manufactured more than 10 years before the current calendar year to book reservations.

While this rule has merit in maintaining the desired aesthetic in luxury RV resorts and campgrounds, it can feel like an unfair punishment for owners of older, well-maintained RVs. 

If you fall into this category as an owner, we have two pieces of good news: 

1. Many campgrounds that employ this policy may grant exemptions if you submit photos of your RV. 
2. There are plenty of RV parks without a 10-year rule where you can camp comfortably.

Let’s cover some tips for finding those less age-discriminatory RV parks. 

Tips for Finding RV Parks Without a 10-Year Rule

While finding campgrounds without an RV age restriction requires starting with a wide net, here are a few tips to narrow your search. 

Tip #1: Prioritize Public Parks

In general, publicly-owned RV parks and those connected to a larger campground network are good targets when searching for campgrounds without a 10-year rule. This includes state and national park campgrounds, as well as those run by city or country recreation departments. 

Tip #2: Expand Your Search Area

You’ll also have more luck avoiding the RV 10-year policy if you search for parks further from popular attractions. Of course, this is easier if you have a towable RV or tow a dinghy behind your motorhome so you have a secondary vehicle to get around once you make camp. 

Tip #3: Book in the Offseason

Even parks that do have RV age restrictions may relax their policies during slower seasons. If there’s a park with a 10-year rule you really want to explore, consider changing your travel dates to the offseason and prepare some high-quality photos of your RV in case you’re asked to submit them for an exemption. 

Tip #4: Call The Park

I’m guilty of wanting the seamless online booking experience when reserving campsites. But that digital platform can’t tell if your older RV is in impeccable shape – it only cares that the year is past the cutoff deadline it has been told to enforce. In the event an online booking platform won’t allow you to book due to your RV’s year, it never hurts to call the park. 

Especially if you’re looking at a smaller park, you’ll often get someone directly responsible for campground ownership and management on the phone. Sometimes, the person you speak with will prioritize bringing additional revenue into their park over enforcing an RV age restriction. 

Tip #5: Use Alternatives to Traditional Campgrounds

The popularity of RVing these days can make it tough to get campground reservations even with a new RV. That’s why platforms like Harvest Hosts have found a niche in the RV marketplace, providing owners with other places to stay to enjoy a unique experience without worrying about an RV 10-year rule.

A Directory of RV Parks Without a 10-Year Rule

Our fine friends at Good Sam furnished us with this list of at least one RV park without a 10-year rule in each of the lower 48 states. 

Other Resources For Finding RV Parks Near Me

If you want to expand your search, here are a few additional resources to help you find campgrounds near you: 

• Average RV Park Cost in the US
• Good Sam’s Campground Directory
• Camping World’s National Park Guides
• Our Campgrounds & Travel Article Directory (filter by clicking on your desired state)

Do you have any recommended RV parks without a 10-year rule? Share your favorite destinations in the comments below.