Can You Live in an RV Park All Year Long? (2024)

Many RVers jump into the lifestyle to travel, but that isn’t always the case. In fact, many people need to live in an RV park year-round.

If you’re stationary, what options do you have? Today we’re going to take a look at living in an RV park all year long.

Let’s dig in!

Can You Live in an RV Park All Year Long?

To put it simply, yes, you can live in an RV park all year. While there are often ordinances that restrict people from living in their RV (even on their own property), RV parks are usually exempt.

Some people live 100% of the time in their RVs at the site, while others choose to come and go, using it as a vacation home of sorts.

What Is a Long-Term RV Park?

A long-term RV park is an RV park that allows year-round occupancy. Many of these parks reserve a percentage of sites for long-term use, with the rest dedicated to transient use. Some RV parks may even allow you to purchase a site.

How to Find Long-Term RV Parks Near You

Ultimately, the best way to find out if an RV park allows long-term, live-in use is by giving them a call. It’s also common for RV parks to list their rates and length of stay options on their websites.

If you don’t have a specific park in mind, you can use websites such as Campendium to see which parks exist in the area.

Benefits of Staying in an RV Park All Year Long

Even if work or life situations don’t require you to be stationary in an RV park, there are many benefits to doing so. Check out some of the pros of making use of a long-term RV park.

Discounted Rates = Saving Money

Almost always, longevity in a park equates to savings. RV park fees can add up very quickly at a nightly rate. Monthly and even yearly rates tend to come at a fraction of the price.

All the Amenities

RV parks can come with some great amenities if you choose the right one. Many RV parks offer laundry, a game room, a pool, and even a gym.

Using these facilities can help you further save by reducing those costs compared to paying for them separately. Some RV parks even offer activities such as putt-putt golf and boating.

Cheaper than Renting or Owning a House

Rent for living at an RV park can cost less than rent or a mortgage. If you get lucky, utilities may even come included with your rent. Throw in no yard upkeep or HOA fees, and you’ll be surprised at how much you’re saving.

Move to a New Site or Park if You Want

Unless you’ve signed a lease, if you have neighbors you don’t vibe with or don’t love your location, you can switch sites. Changing sites is great for those who like the park they’re at but need a change of scenery from time to time.

Of course, for those who want to change parks completely, that’s an option as well.

If you’re unsure if you’d like to remain at a park long-term, it could be beneficial to give it a trial run before committing.

How to Make the Most out of Stationary RV Life

Whether you’re living long-term at an RV park by choice or out of necessity, there are ways to make the most of it. Here are a few tips to get you settled into stationary RV life.

Create an Outdoor Living Space

Even the largest of RVs can feel small. It can be easy to feel trapped if you’re spending a lot of time in the RV. Creating a cozy and functional outdoor area can double your space. Check with your park for restrictions, but you can often build a small deck leading up to your entrance.

Add some fun lighting and outdoor furniture, and you’re all set!

Maximize Storage in Your RV

A cluttered space can lead to unnecessary stress. If you’re sitting still, you don’t have to worry about bringing in slides and subjecting your belongings to traveling down an interstate. Storage bins and containers can help keep things organized and out of sight.

It’ll take a while to find what works for you, but you’ll breathe much easier when you do.

Collect Experiences and Memories, Not Things

Having a small space restricts how much junk you can accumulate. There are only so many places to stash things. Tiny living can push you to work on collecting memories versus things. Also, less “stuff” sitting around means less cleaning.

Is Stationary RV Living Worth It?

If you’re outpriced in your area but need to stay put due to family or a career, stationary RV park living can be a great choice. If you don’t do well with small spaces or sitting still for very long, a house might be the better option.

Many people also choose to live stationary temporarily while they use the savings to prepare for travel. Would having a long-term spot at a local RV park be beneficial for your situation?

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Can You Live in an RV Park All Year Long? (2024)

FAQs

Can You Live in an RV Park All Year Long? ›

Usually, the answer is yes! Many campgrounds offer long-term stays for RVers, and some even provide amenities specifically designed for full-time RV living. However, each campground may have its own policies regarding stay length, so be sure to research and inquire about any restrictions prior to your arrival.

Do people live permanently in RV parks? ›

Living permanently in an RV might sound like a dream – but is it a legal reality? The answer is: yes, with certain conditions. California law allows individuals to live in an RV, but the duration of your stay can vary depending on the specific rules and regulations of the RV park you choose.

Where is the best place to live in an RV year round? ›

10 Best Destinations For Full-Time RVers
  1. Phoenix, Arizona: Desert Shadows RV Resort. ...
  2. Apache Junction, Arizona: Superstition Sunrise RV Resort. ...
  3. Vacaville, California: Midway RV Park. ...
  4. Williston, Florida: Williston Crossings RV Resort. ...
  5. Caldwell, Idaho: Ambassador RV Resort. ...
  6. Marksville, Louisiana: Paragon Casino RV Resort.
Dec 31, 2022

Is there an RV you can live in year round? ›

You can choose an RV for permanent living long term in year round campgrounds or on privately owned land. In this case, the best RV for long term living may be a large RV, park model RV, or even one of the destination campers because frequent travel days aren't a concern.

How long can you stay in most RV parks? ›

Each RV park and resort has its own unique set of rules and regulations governing guest stays. While some may allow indefinite stays, others impose maximum limits that typically range from two weeks to six months.

Where do most full time RVers live? ›

Creating Your Own RV Life Vision

The best states for full-time RV living are Florida, Texas, California, Arizona, and Oregon. Each of these states offers something unique and appealing to RVers, whether it's warm weather, scenic beauty, or plenty of entertainment options.

Is it cheaper to live in an RV? ›

Living in an RV can be cheaper than traditional home ownership because RVs require less space and utility usage, resulting in lower costs for heating, cooling, and maintenance. Additionally, RV living encourages a simpler and more minimalist lifestyle that can lead to fewer expenses related to possessions.

Is it financially smart to live in an RV? ›

As long as travel fees are kept in check, and RV purchase and maintenance costs are considered, Living “small” in an RV can be significantly cheaper than a monthly mortgage plus the cost of “keeping up with the Joneses” in 2,000 square feet.

What is the downside of living in an RV full-time? ›

Cons of Full-Time RV Living

It's also unavoidable to sacrifice many luxurious amenities in a traditional house. Privacy and noise: Since RV has a much smaller space, sometimes you need to cook, eat, rest, and acquire necessities outside your RV, requiring you to sacrifice some privacy.

What is the best state for RV residency? ›

Texas: One of the most popular domiciles for full-time RVers is Texas. Its popularity can be partially attributed to the Escapees RV Club, which resides in Livingston, TX and helps RVers set up residency in that state with ease. You can also vote in elections by mail a month in advance for added convenience.

What RV is best for full-time living? ›

The best RVs for full-time living
  • Forest River Alpha Wolf 30RDB-L.
  • Casita Spirit 17-foot Deluxe.
  • Jayco Redhawk 31F.
  • Airstream Classic 30RB.
  • Grand Design Reflection 312BHTS.

How do I live in an RV permanently? ›

How to live in an RV full-time
  1. Consider your location. ...
  2. Consider the cost. ...
  3. Adopt the right state of mind. ...
  4. Downsize your stuff. ...
  5. Be prepared for all types of weather. ...
  6. Be as self-sufficient as possible. ...
  7. Prepare for boondocking. ...
  8. Prepare for travel.

Which RV is best for winter? ›

Here are a few of the best cold weather RVs currently available on the market.
  • Windjammer 3008W Travel Trailer. ...
  • Forest River Arctic Wolf. ...
  • Northwood Arctic Fox. ...
  • Jayco Redhawk 26XD. ...
  • Keystone Raptor. ...
  • Jayco 327CKTS Eagle. ...
  • Heartland Bighorn. ...
  • Keystone Montana.

How far can an RV go in a day? ›

You will find that when towing, if you travel at 60-65mph, you will average 50mph for the day, including fuel and rest stops. This translates into around 300-350 miles per day if you drive for 6 hours which is just about our max.

How long can you stay on a campsite? ›

You can't live on any campsite or holiday park permanently. As above, you must vacate your unit after 28 consecutive nights.

Where can I park my RV to live for free in Florida? ›

Adventure on a Dime: Cheap and Free RV Camping Locations in Florida
  • Curry Hammock State Park. ...
  • Dinner Island Ranch Wildlife Management Area. ...
  • John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. ...
  • Picayune Strand Horseshoe Primitive Campground. ...
  • Pine Creek Landing. ...
  • Rotenberger Wildlife Management Area. ...
  • Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area.

Why do people live in RV parks? ›

Living in an RV full time in a park can provide cost savings and financial freedom. RV living allows for flexibility, simplicity, and minimalism. RV park living can offer a sense of community, proximity to nature, and improved health and wellbeing.

Why are so many people living in RVs? ›

The Covid-19 pandemic forced more people into poverty. Some of the RV dwellers have jobs but either don't want to pay apartment rent, or can't afford to pay it, in a city where the average one-bedroom apartment costs around $2,500 a month.

How many people live full time in an RV? ›

Approximately 1 million Americans live in recreational vehicles full-time. Over 40 million Americans regularly go RVing, with over 25 million RVing a year. 38% of the 40 million Americans who own an RV are Millennials. Approximately 9% of households in the United States own an RV for recreational purposes.

How much does it cost to live in an RV park in California? ›

You should expect your costs for RV sites, gas and food to fluctuate month to month depending on where you're staying and how often you're on the road. You may spend barely $1,000 one month and over $3,000 the next just depending on location.

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