Choosing Between Campgrounds and RV Resorts: Which is Right for You?
When it comes to planning your next outdoor adventure, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is where to park your RV or pitch your tent. While both campgrounds and RV resorts offer opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature, they cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Let’s explore the distinctions between the two to help you decide which option best suits your needs. When we built the Inn Town Campground we knew that we were doing something different, by building a campground that included RV sites, but incorporated different types of accommodations- glamping and tent sites into the mix, but in a strategic way. We often refer to ourselves as similar to a state park, but with the amenities of a private campground. So, let’s dive in, because not all campgrounds are the same.
Campgrounds: Embracing the Rustic Charm
Campgrounds are known for having more natural environments, so think trees and dirt and definitely some bugs. For those who crave an authentic immersive outdoor experience this might be a better choice for your next camping trip. While we think the Inn Town Campground as rustic, we pride ourselves on offering up exceptionally clean bathrooms, outdoor dishwashing stations, potable water spigots through camp and access to our commons building (with communal kitchen, dinning area, living room, laundry, family and gender neutral bathrooms and camp store) and a staff on site to assist with your travels.
Pros of Campgrounds:
- Affordability: Campgrounds are often more budget-friendly than RV resorts, making them ideal for travelers on a budget.
- Nature Immersion: Campgrounds offer a more immersive experience in nature, allowing campers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The opportunity to sit in a hammock under the trees is something one should always consider.
- Flexibility: What we love about our campground is the opportunity to have tent campers, glampers and folks in their travel trailer all together. We recognize that someone in your group might want the comfort of a glamping tent, the budget of a tent site or the ease of a full hook up with their motorhome.
Cons of Campgrounds:
- Is it Right for You? It’s important to know what you need for your outdoor adventure, we’ve had plenty of new to camping guests since we opened and we’re always trying to make sure folks have a good set of realistic expectations about what it means to go camping. Check out our top 10 tips if you’ve never been glamping before. We don’t have any grass, so if you’re looking for a more manicured stay a campground might not be the right fit for you.
- Not enough services. Many RV Resorts will offer a full line of entertainment and services, if you want the all inclusive spa experience a campground might not be the right fit.
- Smaller RV Sites and Less RV sites. If you’re looking to host a rally of 50 RVs a smaller campground might not have enough sites for your group.
RV Resorts: Where Luxury Meets Adventure
On the other end of the spectrum, RV resorts cater to travelers seeking a more luxurious camping experience. These upscale destinations boast a wide range of amenities, including pull through full hook-up sites, large swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and organized activities such as yoga classes and wine tastings. RV resorts often prioritize comfort and convenience, providing a resort-like atmosphere, but often with a more developed feel.
Pros of RV Resorts:
- Modern Amenities: RV resorts offer an array of modern amenities designed to enhance your camping experience, from on site restaurants or equipment rentals or a whole schedule of kid activities.
- Comfort and Convenience: With spacious sites and full hook-ups, RV resorts make it easy for travelers to enjoy the comforts of home while on the road.
- Resort Experience: Many RV resorts catering to the crowd of folks who are looking for an all inclusive camping experience, where you may never need to leave the campground. Check out our friends at RV Atlas top 14 amenities they look for in a RV Resort.
Cons of RV Resorts:
- Higher Cost: The luxury and convenience of RV resorts often come at a higher price point compared to campgrounds, which may not be feasible for budget-conscious travelers.
- Less Seclusion: While RV resorts offer a wealth of amenities, they may lack the secluded, rustic charm of traditional campgrounds, making them less appealing to those seeking solitude in nature.
Choosing the Right Option for You
Ultimately, the decision between campgrounds and RV resorts boils down to your personal preferences, budget, and desired level of comfort. If you’re an outdoorsy camper who thrives on simplicity and immersion in nature, a campground may be the perfect fit for your next adventure. On the other hand, if you prefer the convenience of modern amenities and crave a resort-like experience, an RV resort might better suit your needs.
Whether you opt for the rugged simplicity of a campground or the upscale comforts of an RV resort, one thing is certain: both options offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and unforgettable memories amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.
So, which will it be for your next getaway — roughing it in a campground or indulging in the luxury of an RV resort? The choice is yours to make. Happy camping!
