RV Life: Campground Etiquette Tips and Hints

When we take an RV trip, we count on our fellow campers to be good neighbors, and they count on us to do the same. RV campground etiquette means following both the written and unwritten rules of neighborly behavior.

We’ve put together this simple RV Etiquette Guide to help you live your best RV life, at peace with your fellow campers even when parks get crowded.

Noise

Noise is more complicated than it seems. You should enjoy your vacation, laugh with your family and friends, and even play music. Campgrounds can be peaceful for everyone without being silent. But when does the sound of happy campers turn into noise for the neighbors? Follow these tips to strike the right balance.

Observe written quiet hours. If your campground has a policy, stick to it. Even if it doesn’t, follow the lead of your fellow campers. RVs aren’t as insulated as your home, so turn things down early in the evening and stay quiet later in the morning.
Make sure your fellow campers can hear the sounds of nature. You can have fun without drowning out the world around you. Keep music low, avoid raucous gatherings, and make sure your kids know the importance of quiet times.
How loud is your generator and how close is it to your neighbor? Not only is noise an issue here, but so are fumes. If you know you will run your generator, choose a campsite that affords enough space between RVs to lessen the disturbance and keep everyone safe.
Don’t plan your arrival during quiet hours. If it’s unavoidable, pull in as quietly as possible and leave the noisier setting up for the morning.

Light

Choose outdoor lights that don’t intrude on your neighbor’s space. Check out our Leisure LED exterior light selection to find lighting that makes you feel safe without blinding the camper next door.

When you head indoors at night, close your blinds. Your night owls can read until the wee hours without disturbing anyone else’s slumber.

Space

The best way to have enough space at your campsite is to plan ahead. Make sure that your reserved spot is large enough for your vehicle. Some campgrounds don’t have the space to accommodate a big Class A motorhome so never assume—ask.

Do you have a tow vehicle? Some RV parks and campgrounds have overflow lots, freeing up space in your campsite.

Please don’t be that RVer that takes advantage of the smaller motorhome, travel trailer, or tent next door. If your neighbor isn’t using all of their space, that is not an invitation to extend your activities into their area.

Continue that respect for the space of others when you’re walking around the campground. Don’t cut through someone else’s campsite, use communal walkways.

Read the Room

Different RV campgrounds have different vibes. These go beyond written rules. When you arrive, take some time to get the lay of the land. Here are just a few ways to get off on the right foot.

Some RV parks and campgrounds are all about fun. They have planned activities for families, welcome pets, and have amenities that bring campers together. Others are all about nature and peace and quiet. Choose according to your camping style.
RV communities are generally welcoming and friendly. But your campground neighbors might be looking for solitude. Introduce yourself and pay close attention to social cues. You might hit it off and become fast friends, or maybe your styles will be cordial but distant.

Clean Up

This is a no-brainer. Never leave trash around your campsite. It’s an open invitation for local wildlife and will surely blow into your neighbor’s space.

Cleaning up is more than trash pick-up. In a crowded campground, space is precious. Packing up everything not in use gives everyone a bit more breathing room.

Good RV neighbors also take care of communal spaces. Leave bathrooms and showers tidy, wash dishes only in designated areas, don’t leave a mess at the dump station, and clean up after your pets.

Safety First

Yes, we’re talking about campfire etiquette. Use only dedicated fire pits or rings. Make sure your fire is completely out before leaving it and make sure there are no local fire restrictions in place. During dry spells, campfires may be prohibited even if pits and rings are provided.

It isn’t hard to be a good RV neighbor if you’re prepared. If you aren’t sure what’s expected, don’t be afraid to ask. Your fellow RVers will appreciate the effort.

For more ways to make every RV trip a great RV trip, check out our Leisure Coachworks RV Life articles. Have fun out there!