Scenic RV Park Camping. Few Camper Vans in Remote Location. RVing Theme.
Types of RVs: What’s The Best Fit for You?
More than 11 million households have discovered the benefits of owning an RV, and more than 90% of those take at least three short trips per year. Though the data isn’t yet finalized, projections indicate that 2021 was a record-breaking year in RV sales. An estimated 576,000 units were sold, easily surpassing the previous record of 504,600 set in 2017.
Recreational vehicles offer convenience, flexibility and comfort. Planning trips is easier when the place you rest your head each night has wheels. It isn’t hard to see why they’re so appealing, but with so many styles, how do you know which one is right for you? There are several types of RVs, and each one has characteristics and features that set it apart from the others. Once you understand how they differ, it is easier to narrow down your options.
The Tow-Behind Types of RVs
The first type of camper many people invest in is the kind you tow behind their vehicles. You can find ones in any size and with many features and conveniences.
Pop-Up Campers
The pop-up camper is a lightweight and compact trailer. When not in use, it folds up into a shell. Many of these have a hard-sided bottom, but the upper half consists of a combination of fiberglass and canvas. They look like a cross between a trailer and a tent. They come equipped with kitchens and places to sit and sleep. Some even have small bathrooms.
Travel Trailers
Of all the types of RVs, travel trailers are the most popular. In 2018, people bought 3.5 times as many travel trailers as the next biggest seller, fifth-wheels. These campers quickly attach to a hitch on a vehicle or truck. You can even find ones that are light and small enough to tow behind a bicycle!
Micro travel trailers often contain the bare minimum, with a bed and sometimes a kitchenette accessed from the outside, while the largest ones have everything you need for a family getaway. Many have sides that slide out when you’re parked, providing more room for living. While they’re easy to hook up to the hitch, they’re less stable than a fifth-wheel but also less expensive.
Fifth-Wheels
Fifth-wheels are one of the types of RVs that offer travelers the kind of space you find in large motorhomes but in a tow-behind vehicle. Despite the name, the trailer does not have five wheels. The term refers to the shape of the hitch that it attaches to in the bed of a truck. These trailers are more stable than travel trailers and have higher ceilings and two levels. Fifth-wheels tend to have less storage than travel trailers.
Toy Haulers
Toy haulers are huge tow-behind campers, but the back section is set up to allow you to carry your “toys.” People who like to take their motorcycles or off-road vehicles on vacation can benefit from a toy hauler. The back opens up as a ramp, making it easy to load and unload. Once the cargo is unloaded, the back area can be converted to a seating or dining space.
The Drivable Types of RVs
Motorhomes are recreational vehicles with engines. These all-in-one units make it easier to pick up and go since you don’t have to attach a trailer to your car. However, if you decide to tow a vehicle, you still have to take the time to hitch it up.
Class A
Class As are motorhomes built on a bus or commercial truck chassis. They’re heavy-duty vehicles that offer a smooth ride and plenty of space for families. They come in lengths ranging from 25-45 feet. Longer lengths require owners to find RV parks that can accommodate big rigs. These RVs often have slide-outs, which create even more room. They have full kitchens, plenty of sleeping areas and overhead cabinets. There is storage underneath, and sometimes an additional outdoor kitchen and television.
While these types of RVs are loaded with amenities, they are the most expensive recreational vehicles on the road. They also take some getting used to when driving in towns, especially the larger ones. With more vehicle behind you, you need to adjust your turns to accommodate or risk clipping a post or running over a curb. In some states, if you own a Class A that weighs more than 26,000 pounds, you need a commercial driver’s license. Class A vehicles often run on diesel gas.
Class C
Another popular drivable recreational vehicle is the Cass C RV. These are built on van chassis and have an over-the-cab compartment. Many families like these types of RVs for the additional sleeping area they provide. The space over the cab is often a dedicated bed, though in some models you can opt for extra storage instead.
You can find Class Cs as short as 20 feet to as much as 35 or 40 feet long. They tend to be easier to handle than Class A RVs but may not ride quite as smoothly. Slide-outs are standard on newer models, providing extra living space, but they tend to have less room overall than Class As. They are also less expensive.
Camper Van
Camper vans are types of RVs that are also known as Class B recreation vehicles. These are often smaller than Class Cs, with less living space, headroom and storage. They have compact quarters, but you can get them in sizes up to 20 feet long.
They frequently come equipped with kitchens, though some may be more like kitchenettes. They may also have a toilet or wet bath (a bathroom where the shower, toilet and sink occupy a single stall). They are maneuverable and easy to park, as they usually fit in standard parking spots.
The Place To Vacation for All Types of RVs
Now that you know more about the different types of RVs, you can choose a style that fits your needs. No matter which kind you choose, Texas offers plenty of options for camping on your next vacation getaway. The Boston Group manages RV parks in some of Texas’s most desirable locations, offering a wide range of amenities, full hookups and a warm, Lone-Star welcome. Get in touch with us to learn more about our Texas RV parks and plan your next trip.
If you’ve never been to Texas, why are you waiting? Texas is a big state with a big heart and offers incredible adventure. The landmass is a whopping 268,597 square miles (a little larger than France), so it’s time to get going and see what all the talk is about.
For the whole experience, you need to spend time roaming around the Lone Star State. Traveling in your RV is an excellent way to visit all the places that pique your interest. Whether you want to relax by the shore, visit beautiful cities, listen to live music, or get out in nature, Texas is the best state for full-time RVers.
Natural Spaces in the Best State for Full-Time RVers
If you plan to visit the coast, be sure to check out Padre Island National Seashore. This national park is the largest undeveloped barrier island in the world that is abundant with wildlife and sea creatures that inhabit the tidal flats.
Stay at a nearby luxury RV resort, so you have extra time to explore the dunes and swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Catch a beautiful sunset on popular Mustang Island and keep your camera handy for some memorable shots.
Historical Sites
When in San Antonio, you must remember to visit the Alamo. This cultural institution is a global treasure for all who visit. Join a guided tour to learn about the Spanish mission’s vibrant history and the famous people connected to the Alamo’s story.
The famous Riverwalk is steps away, so plan to meander this beautiful city feature. There’s lots of shopping and great food to enjoy along the path, making this another reason Texas is the best state for full-time RVers.
Cultural Experiences
Head to “Big D” Dallas to experience one of the finest collections of artworks by the Spanish masters at the Meadows Museum. You can browse the artistry of Goya, Murillo, Picasso and Ribera, to name a famous few.
The Texas State Capitol is the seventh-largest building in the world, constructed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. Its red-granite exterior is breathtaking and worth the trip. Stay at an RV park in the area and find out why “Keep Austin Weird” is an apt slogan for this unique city.
Musical Venues
While Austin is billed as the Live Music Capital of the World, you’ll find great music throughout the state. From concert halls to honky-tonks, Texas has a thriving music scene, which is why it leads the pack as the best state for full-time RVers.
Gruene Hall in Hill Country is the oldest dance hall in the state that features both budding and famous artists playing to excited crowds ready to two-step the night away. Park your rig outside the hall and head next door to the Gristmill Restaurant before the show. Try the best onion rings on the planet as a starter.
Plan Your Travels Around the Best State for Full-Time RVers
The Boston Group manages premier RV properties across the state of Texas. Our parks and resorts feature excellent facilities and amenities for our visitors. Contact us to learn more about our portfolio and see why we believe this is the best state for full-time RVers.
Scenic RV Park Camping. Lakefront Campsite. Vacation in Recreational Vehicle
In 2016, more than 40 million people went camping at least once. When most people think about camping, they envision roughing it in the woods, with no amenities and none of the perks of staying in a lodge or hotel. This is camping for some, but there is another option for those who prefer to stay someplace a little more comfortable. Staying in luxury RV parks provides creature comforts and amenities that may just change your mind about camping.
Luxury RV Parks Give You Room To Breathe
Not all campgrounds are created equal, not even those built to accommodate RVs. Many facilities are designed to pack as many guests in as possible. Sites are close together, and campers feel like they are sitting on top of their neighbors.
An upscale RV park does things a little differently. The sites are spacious, with an ample — and well-maintained — yard that allows you to sit outside and enjoy the fresh air while offering some space between you and the campers next door. You can roll out your awning, put out the lounge chairs, set up your BBQ and still have room to play fetch with Fido or catch with the kids.
Luxury RV Parks Feel Like a Second Home
When you stay at a luxury RV park, you feel like you’ve arrived at your second home. You aren’t staying in a room with sterile furniture and hotel towels and bedding. Instead, you bring all the creature comforts of home with you. Whether you rent or own your RV, you get to sleep under your own blankets, rest your head on your own pillow and drink out of your favorite coffee mug. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you can remain comfortable inside your rig or head to the community areas many luxury RV parks provide.
Luxury RV Parks Go the Extra Mile
Many RV campgrounds provide the basics, but luxury RV parks go the extra mile to ensure you have everything you need for a pleasant stay. They maintain immaculate grounds and offer top-notch amenities. These campgrounds have beautiful landscaping that immediately makes you feel relaxed and peaceful.
When you stay at an upscale campground, you can expect to find amenities that make life easier during your vacation and provide you with recreational activities right on site. Some of the extra perks you can expect to find include:
Well-maintained laundry facilities
Wi-Fi and cable
Swimming pool
Clubhouse
Hiking and walking trails
Dog Park
Playground
While these campgrounds are in areas with plenty of attractions, staying at luxury RV parks is a vacation in itself.
Luxury RV Parks Are Located in Texas
If you’re ready to try a new way of camping, find out where the luxury RV parks are located. The Boston Group manages four parks in Texas that are designed to make your camping experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. These little oases are located near the best places to visit in Texas. If you’d like more information on our RV parks and where they are located, please get in touch. We’re happy to help you discover that you really do like camping!
If you were to ask seasoned campers why they love the great outdoors, they could give you various reasons. For some, camping is a family tradition, for others, it’s their only way to decompress from the stress of everyday life.
The Draw of Camping
People have been camping in the U.S. National Parks for over a century. Many people who camp as adults also camped as children. Whether you live in a sprawling city, the suburbs or rural America, everyone has the urge to get out of their cities and towns once in a while. For many people, the draw of camping is in its simplicity. For a moment, you can reconnect to the wilderness. When you own or rent an RV, you can take advantage of the wilderness and many modern amenities.
Full-service parks provide high-wattage power for you to run whatever you want. When you run on battery power, you have to run appliances such as blow dryers and air fryers on a time limit. RV parks tend to be more convenient for long-term vacationers and people with families.
Tips for New Campers
Every camper starts as a beginner. While some campers choose to learn through experience, there are a few tips to get started and ensure you don’t forget anything. With a few smart tips, you’re on your way to becoming a seasoned camper.
Create a Camping Checklist
A checklist should be a must-have on any trip. You should create a checklist before you leave on your trip. This list should include everything that you need. Here is an example of some of the items you should have on the checklist:
Lantern batteries
Bug spray
Fishing rods
Sunblock
In addition to a checklist for packing, have one for when you pack up the RV. Make sure you leave nothing at your campsite.
Bring the Right Clothing
One of the worst mistakes a camper can make is not bringing adequate clothing, no matter where you vacation. Bring clothes that you know you will need and some pairs of clothes that you’re unsure of. For example, even if you think it’ll be sunny the whole trip, make sure you have a sweater or jacket for colder nights or sudden rainstorms.
If you plan to do a lot of hiking, you need comfortable, durable clothes to trek through the woods. Make sure you have comfortable shoes. Do not buy expensive hiking boots days before your trip. Most boots need to be broken in, and if you aren’t an experienced or avid hiker, you may not need to spend the extra expense.
Learn the Campground’s Rules
Every RV park has its own set of rules to follow. Research the rules in advance to make sure your family will be an appropriate fit for the space. For example, if you choose a park that doesn’t allow many guests but plan to host a birthday party, you may be disappointed by your choice. A part of observing park rules is being courteous of other people.
For example, most parks have quiet hours where you need to keep the noise level down. Remember that the RV in the space next to you may be trying to sleep while you relax next to the campfire.
The Benefits of Camping
When it comes to camping, you’re sure to find a lot of benefits. Not only is camping exciting, but it has real-world benefits on your life.
Lower Stress and Reduced Depression
To be around greenspace can do wonders on your stress and anxiety levels. Having access to nature may increase your happiness and improve your sleep. Not only are you able to reap the benefits of being in nature, but you also have an opportunity to get away from the stressors in your life. If you have a stressful job or school or extra-curricular activities that stress your children, camping is an escape from everyday life. If we envelop ourselves in work all of the time, it can lead to burnout, anxiety and depression.
In addition to experiencing the wilderness, camping allows you to unplug for a while. Sometimes phones and digital devices pull us away from our families and friends and rob us of real-world connections. Research shows that if you unplug now and then, it positively impacts your mental health.
Better Physical Health and More Activity
When you’re camping, you’ll have times where you want to sunbathe on the beach or relax next to the fire, but odds are you’re getting more physical activity than you do in your everyday life. When you’re outside, you are more likely to increase your physical activity. You may hike, swim, go rock climbing or take part in other outdoor activities that allow you to work out and have fun at the same time. When you get more physical activity, you may have higher confidence and more self-esteem.
Increased Energy and Focus
Nature has a lot of restorative properties. When you’re outside, you may feel more energetic because you’re getting a better night’s sleep. If you want to restore your biological clock, camping is one of the best ways to do it. Campers often fall asleep earlier and wake up earlier. Often, your body will sync up with nature’s routine.
If you feel like you’re in a rut at work, for example, spending a weekend at a campsite could help you recharge and return to work with ample creativity and energy.
Take Your Vacation to the Next Level
When you allow yourself to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the great outdoors, there are various benefits to reap. In addition, you carry the memories of your adventure for a lifetime.
If you’re prepared to discover some of the most beautiful RV campgrounds, the Boston Group manages some of the best properties that cater to the RV community. Check out our portfolio to find the best camping spot for you and your family’s next vacation.
Choosing the right RV camp sites can make your trip worthwhile. Though choosing can sometimes feel like a toss-up between locations, where you choose to stay affects your view, amenities, comfort, and overall enjoyment. Peace of mind is a big part of travel, so why not maximize your satisfaction?
Do Research on RV Camp Sites Before Setting Out
Look for RV sites near where you plan on stopping and check reviews on independent websites without a stake in your business. We’re lucky to live in an era in which maps of the entire globe are accessible to virtually everyone with a computer. Check out online maps to do some recon on camp sites. Sometimes it is even possible to figure out roughly what an area looks like from the comfort of your home.
Find Necessary Amenities
Depending on what you bring with you in your RV, you may or may not need extra electricity, showers, laundry, or restroom facilities. If you plan to work or use the internet, you should look for available Wi-Fi. Check park maps to figure out which amenities are available and where best to position yourself to take advantage of them. Some RV camp sites at The Boston Group even feature luxury accommodations like pools and baths to make your stay extra glamorous.
Check out the Facilities
Some RV parks are well cared for while others can be a little run down. If you have the option to stop by the park before your stay, you should check out the facilities first. A well-maintained guest building or bathroom often indicates that other aspects of the park are well cared for. Also check the atmosphere, including lights and unpleasant noises that might affect the quality of your stay.
Check the Rules and Costs
The cost of your stay and additional costs, such as charges for electricity or Wi-Fi, are important to understand before committing to a location. All RV parks also have rules that can limit your behavior to ensure that guests remain safe and happy. These can occasionally be stringent, however. Many parks have quiet hours, but others restrict certain breeds of dogs or even the types of containers you can have outside your RV.
Avoid Dangers Common to RV Camp Sites and Camping
New campers and RVers are sometimes unaware that all outdoor activities carry some degree of risk. Usually, risks to campers come from weather and environmental conditions. Before heading on any trip, always make sure to check the weather forecast. As RVs are smaller than houses, they aren’t as good with high winds or extreme weather. Never choose a camp site that is situated next to a streambed if there is heavy rain in the forecast.
Finding the best RV camp sites takes a little practice and doing so the first time around isn’t always easy. For some of the most stunning RV campgrounds in the country, check out properties owned by The Boston Group and choose from our handy portfolio.
RV campground with plenty of trees for both tent camping and RV sites in Texas, America If you’ve ever been to Texas, you’ve probably encountered Texan pride. Texans love their state, and for a good reason! Even if you’re from the Lone Star State, there is still a lot to discover. If you love hitting the road in your RV, learn why you should head to the hot spots for camping in Texas.
Places for Camping in Texas
For beginning and seasoned campers alike, a major draw to Texas is its parks. Texas is known for its diversity, not only in culture but in landscapes. Where else can you find a state with canyons, bayous, lakes, dunes and beaches? Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe National Park are the two national parks within Texas, and with 80 state parks to choose from, there is practically an endless supply of options. Aside from the parks, the state features a variety of historic landmarks and protected areas. Even throughout the winter, Texans aren’t bothered by cold, damp weather. There are a lot of sunny, beautiful days with the occasional cold weather.
Things To Do in Texas
Once you make Texas your destination for RV travel, you need to set up an itinerary. If you’re unfamiliar with the Lone Star State, you may not know where to begin. Even for locals, it’s easy to get lost thinking about all of the options you have in front of you. Wherever you’re camping in Texas, there is something for everyone.
Hit the Lakes
Whether you’re looking for the best swimming hole to beat the heat or a place to fish, you’re bound to find the Texan lake that checks all of the boxes. Fishing is a great way to spend time with your family, relax and have fun. To fish in Texas, you do need a fishing license. Check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before you embark on a fishing trip. If you’re interested in boating, our lakes are perfect for that too. Near Fort Worth, you can find one of the largest lakes in Texas: Eagle Mountain Lake. At about 9,000 acres, it is perfect for boating. The state has many estuaries, bays and rivers, too.
Explore the Wilderness
Texas is the second-largest state in the U.S. If you were to drive from north to south, it would take about 13 hours nonstop. With all of this land, it isn’t any surprise that Texas has many areas to hike through. Find an RV park and spend your days trekking through the wilderness. When looking for places to hike, keep your fitness level and hiking skills in mind. Some trails cater towards the casual hiker while others are for the seasoned professional. Before any hike, remember to bring adequate equipment. You’ll need a comfortable pair of hiking shoes, durable clothing, water, food, a first aid kit, navigation tools and a multi-tool. You should also have a fully charged cell phone in case of emergencies. If you’re more interested in thrilling outdoor activities, consider taking sand rails or dune buggies to the dunes. Dune buggies are designed specifically for off-road travel. These vehicles make the most out of the sand with huge wheels, no sides, and no roof.
Enjoy Our Wildlife
Texas is full of parks and wildlife reserves where you can view animals in their natural habitat. For example, at the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, there are 98,000 acres and 400 species of birds, plus sub-tropical and desert-based animals. Birdwatching is popular in Texas and you can easily find maps, checklists, and events around birdwatching. With a little research, you can discover where the best animal watching spots are and spend a day enjoying the natural Texas wildlife.
The Texas Camping Guide
Wherever you go, get the most out of camping in Texas by following a few simple tips.
Be Prepared
Before any camping trip, the first step is to prepare. Research different RV parks in the area you want to travel to. You’ll need a park with adequate hookups, space and the amenities you need. Whether your family loves to go for a dip in the swimming pool or hang out at the tennis court, make sure the park offers what you need. When packing, assemble all of the basics. You should have cooking utensils, blankets, first aid kits, toiletries, medications and anything to make your trip comfortable and safe. Upon arrival at the site, check to ensure that your RV is level. If not, you’ll need leveling blocks to place beneath the RV’s wheels.
Stay Safe
When camping in Texas, you must know how to stay safe. If traveling with children, make sure that you keep a close eye on them. It’s easy to become lost in a place you’re unfamiliar with. Always remember that when you’re in the wilderness, you are in someone else’s home. Keep your distance from wildlife and from plants you don’t recognize. While you may feel safer with knives, axes or saws, make sure that you know how to use all of your tools before you use them safely.
Be Courteous
When in the RV park, remember to think about other campers at the park. Try to keep the noise to a minimum at night and always leave your area clean. Do not leave trash overnight or when you depart. Trash and leftover food can attract animals to your campsite. If you have to dispose of wastewater, hook it up to a sewer line or dumping station. Never dump wastewater into the soil or a body of water.
RV campground with plenty of trees for both tent camping and RV sites in Texas, America If you’ve ever been to Texas, you’ve probably encountered Texan pride. Texans love their state, and for a good reason! Even if you’re from the Lone Star State, there is still a lot to discover. If you love hitting the road in your RV, learn why you should head to the hot spots for camping in Texas.