Is Seasonal Camping Right for Your Family?

If you love RVing but find yourself struggling to make time for weekend getaways, seasonal camping might be the perfect solution. Rather than hauling your RV to a new campground every trip, seasonal camping allows you to set up at one campground for an extended period—typically an entire season or even a whole year. This setup offers a home-away-from-home experience without the hassle of hitching, towing, and setting up every time you want to enjoy some time at the campground with family and friends.

In this episode of The RV Atlas, we explore seasonal camping and whether it’s a good fit for different types of RVers. We also talk with Ali Rasmussen from Spacious Skies Campgrounds, to learn about their seasonal camping options in New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the South.

Could seasonal camping be the right choice for your RV adventures? Let’s dive in.

Thanks to Bill Sferrazza for the cover photo for this post.

Why Try Seasonal Camping?

For many RVers, seasonal camping is a game-changer. Instead of spending time planning, packing, and traveling, you can arrive at a pre-set site that’s ready for you to enjoy. Here are some of the top reasons why seasonal camping might be a great option for your family.

1. You Have a Busy Schedule but Still Want to Camp

Between work, kids’ sports, and social commitments, finding time for weekend camping trips can be challenging. A seasonal site allows for last-minute getaways. Many families with sports schedules, for example, can head to their campsite right after Saturday morning games without the stress of packing up their entire RV.

2. You Want an Affordable Weekend Escape

For those considering a vacation home, seasonal camping is a much more budget-friendly alternative. Buying a beach house or mountain cabin is out of reach for many, but setting up a fifth wheel or travel trailer on a seasonal site offers similar perks at a fraction of the cost.

3. You Can’t Park Your RV at Home

Many HOAs and city ordinances prevent RV parking in driveways, forcing owners to pay for offsite storage. Rather than spending money just to store your RV, why not put that investment toward a seasonal campsite where you can actually use it?

4. You Want to Be Part of a Campground Community

Seasonal camping provides the opportunity to develop friendships with fellow campers. Many seasonal campgrounds have community events, from cook-offs to game nights, making it easy to get to know your neighbors.

5. You’re Not Using Your RV Enough

If you’re worried that your RV is sitting unused, a seasonal site could help you maximize your investment. With less effort required to set up camp, it becomes much easier to enjoy spur-of-the-moment trips.

6. You Love a Specific Destination

Do you find yourself returning to the same region again and again? Whether it’s the Jersey Shore, the Adirondacks, or the mountains of North Carolina, seasonal camping gives you a home base in your favorite spot.

How to Find the Right Seasonal Campground

If seasonal camping sounds like a good fit, the next step is to find the right campground for your needs. Here are some factors to consider. Many of these tips come from our friends Jon and Heather and an earlier podcast we did with them a few years back.

1. The Campground’s Overall Vibe

Some campgrounds are family-friendly and bustling, while others cater to quiet retreats. Do you want a lakefront view, full-hookup convenience, or amenities like pools and playgrounds? Visit in person if possible to get a feel for the atmosphere before committing.

2. Ease of Entry and Exit

If you plan to take occasional road trips from your seasonal site, make sure your campsite is easy to access. Some seasonal sites are tucked away and hard to back into, making frequent departures a hassle.

3. Local Attractions Near Your Seasonal Camping Site

If you enjoy exploring the area beyond the campground, consider what restaurants, hiking trails, and attractions are nearby. Are you a beachgoer, hiker, or amusement park enthusiast? Make sure your seasonal site is in a region that aligns with your lifestyle.

4. Activities and Events

5. Cost Breakdown

Seasonal sites typically range from a few thousand dollars per season to over $10,000 at premium resorts. Make sure to calculate:

• Total site fees
• Electricity costs
• Winter storage options
• Additional amenities or services included

Spacious Skies Campgrounds: Seasonal Camping Options

For RVers looking for seasonal sites on the East Coast, Spacious Skies Campgrounds offers a variety of options. Their locations span New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the South, with affordable rates and a welcoming atmosphere.

New England and Mid-Atlantic Seasonal Camping

Spacious Skies offers seasonal camping from May through October at several campgrounds in:

• Maine (Balsam Woods, Walnut Grove)
• New Hampshire (French Pond, Seven Maples)
• New York (Adirondack Peaks, Woodland Hills)
• New Jersey (Country Oaks)

Pricing

• Seasonal rates range from $3,700 to $5,300, making it an affordable way to camp regularly.
• Offseason storage is available for around $100 per off-season.

Seasonal Camping in the South

Unlike in the Northeast, seasonal camping in the South is a newer concept since many campgrounds remain open year-round. Spacious Skies has introduced seasonal options at:

• Virginia (Shenandoah Views)
• North Carolina (Hidden Creek, Bear Den)
• South Carolina (Peach Haven)
• Tennessee (Bell Ridge)

Pricing

• Prices in the South are similar to those in the Northeast, ranging between $4,000 and $5,000 per season.
• Some locations also offer winter seasonal options, ideal for snowbirds or remote workers.

Amenities at Spacious Skies

Across all locations, campers can expect: 

✔ Full hookups
✔ Onsite events and activities
✔ Swimming pools (varies by campground)
✔ Hiking and nature trails
✔ Camp stores and food options

Is Seasonal Camping Right for You?

Seasonal camping isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a stress-free way to enjoy your RV, it can be a fantastic option. For busy families, retirees, and remote workers, having a dedicated site allows for more spontaneous and cost-effective camping.

Have you tried seasonal camping or have more questions about it? Join the conversation in The RV Atlas Facebook group, and let us know about your experiences! And don’t forget to tune in to the full podcast episode for an in-depth discussion on this topic.

 

 

 

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