Staying in Campgrounds with a Campervan
The easiest and most predictable way to plan your overnight stops—especially for your first trip.
Why Campgrounds Are a Great Starting Point?
For first-time campervan travelers, campgrounds are usually the simplest option.
They provide:
- Clearly designated sites
- Amenities like bathrooms and showers
- A predictable place to park for the night
If you’re new to vanlife, starting with campgrounds helps remove uncertainty at the end of the day.
Types of Campground Sites
Not all campground sites are the same. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right one for your trip.
RV Sites with Hookups
These are designed for larger RVs and include:
- Electrical hookups
- Water hookups
- Sometimes sewer connections
These sites are ideal if you want to run A/C consistently, use shore power, or stay in one place for multiple nights.
RV Sites without Hookups
These sites are still designed for RVs but do not include power or water connections.
- Typically more affordable
- Still provide a designated space to park
- Often located within established campgrounds
Tent Sites and Car Camping Sites
In most cases, campervans can stay in tent or car camping sites.
However, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- These sites usually do not include hookups
- Space may be more limited than RV sites
- You may be parking in a more natural or less structured setting
We’ll help guide you through the next steps and coordinate assistance.
For a single night, these sites can work well—especially if you’re comfortable using your van’s onboard systems.
For longer stays, especially in the middle of summer, they may be less ideal if you’re planning to rely on A/C or extended power use.
Do You Need Hookups?
Not always.
Glamp Mobile campervans are designed to give you flexibility, even without hookups.
- Solar and battery systems can support basic usage
- Onboard water systems reduce reliance on external sources
- Bathrooms (in most vans) allow for more independence
That said, hookups can make a big difference for:
- Multi-night stays
- Hot weather travel where A/C is important
- Travelers who prefer a more plug-and-play experience
How to Choose the Right Site
A few simple questions can help guide your decision:
- How long are you staying?
- Do you need A/C or consistent power?
- Are you prioritizing convenience or scenery?
For many trips, a mix works best:
- Campgrounds with hookups for longer stays
- Simpler sites for short or scenic stops
Booking Campgrounds
Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak travel seasons.
- National and state park campgrounds can book up quickly
- Private campgrounds often have more availability
- Some sites are first-come, first-served
Planning ahead for at least part of your trip can make things much easier.
Tips for First-Time Campervan Travelers
- Start with campgrounds for your first few nights
- Don’t overpack your itinerary—leave room to adjust
- Confirm site rules if you’re booking a tent or car site
- Keep your first trip simple and build from there
Pair Campgrounds with Your Route
Campground availability and type will vary depending on where you’re traveling.
Some areas have:
- Dense networks of campgrounds
- Limited options that require early booking
Plan Your Trip
Once you understand how campgrounds work, you can start building your trip around where you’ll stay.
Questions About Campgrounds?
We’re happy to help you choose the right setup for your trip.