Trying to avoid summer crowds at RV parks has many folks turning to the winter months. While the weather down South is usually mild, camping in the cold, snowbound North is gaining popularity.
If you’re considering a yule-tide adventure in the mountains, you’ll have plenty to choose from. However, that can leave you overwhelmed with options.
Luckily, we’ve scouted out some of the top spots, so you don’t have to.
Let’s move!
RV Parks for Winter Camping in the North
Folks who live in the northern part of the United States already know the best-kept secret in RVing. Parks are the perfect place to get away from the grind in winter. Beyond being a place to escape, they’re also close to exciting sports and activities.
Not all RV parks stay open past the fall shoulder season. Keeping an operating staff on hand isn’t economical when bookings fall below a certain point. And those that do don’t always have water and sewer hookups available. It’s a good idea to call ahead to specific campgrounds to see what’s open.
Once you’re there, expect to find fewer neighbors. Many spots near national parks and natural wonders offer year-round splendor, even if you’re the only one enjoying them. But, of course, more people are in on the secret these days.
Skiers, snowshoers, and ice anglers eagerly await the change of the seasons. They know that staying in their rigs during these times provides easy access to mountain resorts and frozen lakes.
In some areas, you can even try skijoring, being pulled on skis by a horse or dog team. In fact, championship horse and skier contests occur all across the Northwest. If you’ve never seen it, it’s worth the trip just for that.
We’ve scoured the Internet to find the seven campgrounds we think will provide the best experience. As with any reservations, you’ll want to call and confirm they’re providing all expected services.
We’ve got the answer: Is RV Camping in the Snow Really Dangerous?
#1 Whitefish RV Park, Montana
Whitefish RV Park in Montana is a winter jewel located in the far northwest part of the state. The park is open year-round in the imposing Rocky Mountains near downtown. According to their website, they also have full amenities throughout the cold season.
We think you’ll enjoy the proximity to local shopping, dining, and outdoor activities. Whitefish Lake is just miles away and offers unbeatable ice fishing. Pair up with a local guide for access to heated shacks and the best spots.
Skiing is another favorite here, with a local resort just a short drive away. Open for over 75 years, the mountain was rated as the number one value by SKI Magazine. Escape your home and frolic in the snow!
When the mountains are calling, you must go to Whitefish RV Park. Just bundle up. It gets chilly out there.
#2 Village of Trees RV Resort, Idaho
The tiny town of Declo, Idaho, rests in the Snake River Valley in the shadow of the Albion and Cotterel mountain ranges. Village of Trees RV Resort is one of the area’s parks open in winter. It offers full hookups and a few other amenities to campers.
You won’t be able to rent permanent or monthly sites, so plan your stay accordingly.
You’ll find family-friendly skiing options at the nearby Pomerelle Mountain Resort. They cater to beginners and folks just getting used to the slopes. If shussing through fresh powder isn’t your thing, ice fishing is available in the nearby Lake Walcott State Park.
City of Rocks National Reserve has snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice-climbing opportunities. Photographers also love the picturesque views and pristine landscapes.
Make sure to check out Wick’s Steak Place for quintessential Idaho cuisine. You won’t be sorry.
#3 Steamboat Springs KOA, Colorado
Known to locals as plain old Steamboat, this small town in Colorado is a skier’s delight. Located near natural hot springs, KOA RV Park is hopping in winter. You’ll want to book this one ahead of time.
The mountain is the primary draw to this region, and it rarely disappoints. Downhill, cross-country, and tree skiing are all extremely popular when snow is on the ground.
Festivals fill the colder months with plenty to do. There’s the Steamboat Winter Carnival that packs in attendees from all over. Each February, folks gather to celebrate Western heritage and winter sports. You can enjoy fireworks, skijoring, night skiing, and a party thrown by Tito’s Vodka.
Stop by Ski Town USA, and you’ll be surrounded by fellow snow lovers.
Check out some of these while you’re in the area: 11 Best Christmas Towns in Colorado.
#4 Stony Brook Recreation, Maine
Stony Brook Recreation in Maine is a well-loved stay on the other side of the country. RV parks in winter can be hit or miss, but this one is a sure thing. Just outside of the town of Bethel, you’ll have access to a piece of American history.
You can only reserve by phone, so make sure to see what seasonal amenities are available.
Several resorts are nearby in one of the most mountainous regions on the East Coast. The Sunday River Ski Resort features the second-largest drop in the state. With 135 trails, it sees more skiers than any other spot in Maine.
Another exciting thing to do is the Apres Aglow. Along the half-mile walk, you’ll see tens of thousands of twinkling lights shine. Locals deck the trees for the holiday season. Opening Thanksgiving weekend, it’s the perfect end to a day on the slopes.
#5 Green Mountain Family Campground, Vermont
Usually a lush, heavily forested area, Green Mountain Family Campground is equally idyllic in the snow. Located on the road skirting the national forest, the RV park transforms in winter. This privately owned site offers four-season bookings with full hookups available.
However, you’ll want to check with the owners to ensure everything’s operational when you make your reservation.
Powder hounds love the trails here. Great for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, locals and visitors fill the hills with whoops of joy. They have over 40 acres of backwoods to explore and easy access to more groomed paths.
Breadloaf Wilderness, Middlebury Snow Bowl, and the legendary Mad River Glen are nearby. There’s nothing quite like the hush of a fresh layer of snow to make the Vermont landscape shine.
#6 Echo Island RV Resort, Utah
Outside Park City, Utah, the Echo Island RV Resort sits in the middle of a river. In the center of the property, the Weber River cuts a split path that leaves some sites surrounded. Nearby mountains climb to the sky, and RV campers revel in the experience.
While they have plenty of spots with full hookups, verify when you reserve that you’ll have what you need.
Snowmobiling is a popular pastime when you’re in the region. These powerful rentals can get out into the unspoiled wilderness like nothing else.
You can also visit Olympic Park in nearby Park City, where the games were held in 2002. When they’re open, the slopes here are stunning, and you just might see the next gold medalist training.
This is also an excellent opportunity to see the Great Salt Lake in winter. Surrounded by snow, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported.
#7 Scandia RV Park, Oregon
Heading out into the woods isn’t for everyone. Scandia RV Park in Bend, Oregon, is ideal in winter because it’s right in town. You’ll have easy access to local dining and entertainment within walking distance. And with the Bend Ale Trail, you’ll want to leave the keys at home.
There are three parks in town under the Scandia banner. Make sure yours has the amenities you need when booking.
Paired with the standard wintertime activities, you can take a sleigh ride or snowmobile tour of the area. Festivities aren’t limited to the outdoors, but the Cascades are hard to turn down.
If spending time inside appeals to you, there are several breweries and restaurants of note. Deschutes Brewery has a public house that caters to casual drinkers and beer snobs. As one of the most recognized brands from the region, it’s one to hit.
A new American eatery, 900 Wall, sits just off Mirror Pond and boasts a menu you’ll dream of later. Small plates and boutique pizzas join rich seafood and steak dishes. Don’t miss out on some of the best of the Pacific Northwest.
You’ll need additional gear for winter camping, such as this Camco 25-Foot Heated Drinking Water Hose.
Winter RV Parks Are A Whole New World
While many RV parks are empty in winter, they shouldn’t be. With a wealth of things to do and see, camping during the off-season should be on your list. Taking a chance on a new cold-weather spot just might open up your world. Beautiful mountain ranges, deep forests, and a blanket of fresh snow await.
Four-season camping doesn’t have to mean heading down South. Many Northern destinations offer sights and festivities you won’t find anywhere else!
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