The RVer community is amazing. The draw of life on the open road brings people together. But even with that bond, when you gather all of those people together in one place—say, a campground—things can get cramped. Here are a few tips to be the best RV neighbor you can be.
1. Spread Out
In a lot of cases, you’ll have your space booked out well in advance. But on occasion, you may show up to a relatively empty campground where you can choose your own spot. In these cases, maintain a respectful distance from the other campers. With what may be dozens of open spaces, there’s plenty of space for everyone to stretch out.
2. Keep Pets on a Leash
As crazy as it sounds, not everyone loves dogs! Whether fear, allergies, or a basic dislike of four-legged friends, some folks just aren’t pet people.
As long as the campground allows pets, feel free to let them out and get them the exercise they need. Pick up after them, and if your animals are particularly vocal when you’re not with them, don’t leave them alone to howl and bark at the neighbors.
But always—always—keep them on a leash. No one wants Fido digging through their cooler looking for leftover lunch meat.
3. Respect Personal Space
If you’re new to RVing, this might be a new concept, but your camping space is your “property.” And likewise, your neighbors’ spot is theirs for the entire time they occupy it.
Like you would at home, respect their property. Keep a healthy distance, and don’t cut through other sites no matter how much shorter the trip to the trash or washhouse it is. Remember, an RV is your home. And you wouldn’t want someone wandering around in your front yard, would you?
That’s not to say you can’t say hi—especially if your neighbors are out and about. Like you would at home, it’s ok to knock on a door to say hello. Not sure when that’s ok? Check the blinds. Open blinds are a good indicator that people are around and awake.
4. Keep to Quiet Hours
Most parks have designated quiet hours. The stipulations within these quiet hours vary camp to camp. In some, it means keeping the noise down—and that may include not running your generator. In others, it means turning off the outdoor lights, and winding things down for the evening.
Remember: you may have just pulled in, but your neighbor may have a long day on the road tomorrow. Let them get their rest.
If you happen to be pulling in late at night—and after quiet hours have ensued—do what you can to keep noise to a minimum. If you don’t need to set up everything as you pull in, save what you can for the morning. Your neighbors will thank you.
5. Find and Follow the Rules
Any campground, public or private, will have a list of posted rules they ask every camper to follow. These usually include things as simple as picking up after yourself, but there may be some rules that are specific to the area you’re in.
Out in California during a drought? That campfire may not be a great idea.
Have a look around, find the rules, and follow them. A little mutual respect and understanding between neighbors goes a very long way.
RVers are some of the friendliest people around, and you’ll feel welcome no matter where you land. Are you ready to join in the camaraderie? Camping World can help outfit you with the RV that fits your needs best.
