RV RULES AND REGULATIONS AT NATIONAL PARKS

When you’ve got an RV, the nation’s most beautiful parks can be your front yard. But RV camping at a national park isn’t as simple as driving up and plugging in. There are RV rules and regulations at national parks, and they can vary from park to park.

Before you go camping at a national park this year, make sure you know the RV restrictions ahead of time.

Campsites

Each national park has size restrictions on their RV campsites. The average permitted size is 27 feet, but you’ll find sites that range anywhere from 20 to 40 feet. There are fewer large sites, though (Yosemite Valley only has a dozen 40-foot sites), so you’ll need to make reservations early.

If you’re staying at a campground, you must camp only in sites that are designated for RVs. Campsites that are listed as “standard nonelectric” are designated for either tents or RVs, but be sure that your RV will fit into a standard campsite. Dispersed camping is not allowed along roadways or parking areas.

Heads-up! RV length and trailer length aren’t the same thing. Many campsites have different lengths for RVs and trailers, because they’re back-in sites with a limited turn radius.

Hookups

Not every campground has hookups and dump stations. You can get all the information you need at the park’s website, or go to www.recreation.gov.

Generator Regulations

Every national park has its own rules about using generators, and some do not permit them at all. Usually, you can use a generator, as long as it’s quieter than 60 decibels at 50 feet. There might be designated hours when you can’t run a generator—for example, at Yosemite, generator hours are from 7:00-9:00 am, 12:00-2:00 pm, and 5:00-7:00 pm.

Whether you use a generator or not, quiet hours are usually between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am.

Time Limits

There are limits on the length of time you can camp at one site. Generally, camping at the same site for longer than 14 consecutive days is not allowed.

Food Storage

National parks are home to many kinds of wild animals, including bears and other scavengers. These animals have a keen sense of smell and they will find any food that is not properly stored. Even RVs can be vulnerable to bears.

If you have a hard-sided RV or trailer, keep the food out of sight and make sure your windows, doors, and vents are closed at night and when you’re not at your campsite.

DO NOT store food in a pop-up trailer or other soft-sided camper. Instead, store it in a bear box if one is provided, or hang your food.

Travel Restrictions

Be aware of travel restrictions—winding roads may not accommodate RVs. Each park has an online map—check it when you plan your trip to be sure there aren’t any size restrictions.

Pets

A lot of people love to take their pets camping, and a national park can be a terrific place for your dog to enjoy. The National Park Service allows dogs at their campgrounds at no charge, but you’ll need to observe the pet policies.

All dogs must be on a 6-foot leash (or shorter) and you can’t leave your dog tied up at camp. Most campgrounds allow you to leave your dog alone inside your RV, as long as it is well ventilated. Dogs aren’t allowed on the trails, but you can walk them within the campground, at picnic areas, and along paved roads.

And, of course, you must pick up after your dog.

RV camping at national parks can be an amazing experience, as long as you’re familiar with the RV regulations ahead of time. Know before you go, and you’ll be sure to enjoy an adventure of a lifetime!

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