RV parks love to flex their “amenities” like they’re handing you the keys to a five-star resort, but let’s be real—some of this stuff is more fluff than function.
If you’ve been on the road long enough, you know that not every shiny perk is worth your hard-earned bucks.
So, what’s legit, and what’s just hype? Here’s a rundown of the five most overrated RV park amenities that aren’t giving what they promised.
1. “Free” Wi-Fi (That’s Slower Than a 2007 Flip Phone)
Listen, RV parks, we love the idea of free Wi-Fi, but let’s call it what it is—false hope. Nine times out of ten, the connection is slower than trying to stream Netflix on dial-up. Sure, they’ll advertise it like you’re getting high-speed internet for all your TikToks and YouTube binges, but the reality is you’ll barely be able to check your email.
Oh, and don’t even think about uploading those epic campsite sunset photos. Data hotspots, anyone?
Overhype Factor: 10/10
Pro Tip: Just pretend it’s 1999 and read a book.
2. Game Rooms That Transport You to the Land of Broken Dreams
A game room sounds cool in theory, right? Until you step in and realize it’s full of ancient, dusty arcade machines that last saw maintenance when Y2K was a thing.
Maybe there’s a sad foosball table with missing players or a ping-pong setup that’s more warped than the Millennium Falcon doing the Kessel Run. Unless you’re stoked about reliving your middle school Chuck E. Cheese experience (but, like, the bad version), skip it.
Overhype Factor: 9/10
Pro Tip: Bring a deck of cards and create your own entertainment.
3. Fancy Clubhouses That No One Actually Uses
You’ve seen these, right? The RV park’s “luxury” clubhouse that looks more like a dentist’s waiting room than a hangout spot. It’s packed with furniture that’s just a little too stiff, random brochures, and maybe a sad little coffee pot in the corner.
They’ll say it’s a social hub, but honestly, it’s usually just a ghost town where you might run into one lone guy watching reruns of NCIS. If you’re not into awkward silences and outdated decor, don’t bother.
Overhype Factor: 8.5/10
Pro Tip: Host your own RV hangout—campfire vibes are always better.
4. Free Cable TV (aka A Graveyard for Channels No One Watches)
RV parks love to tout “free cable TV” like it’s a golden ticket to entertainment heaven, but here’s the deal: when’s the last time you actually used it?
Most of these setups are like stepping back into a pre-streaming world, filled with local access shows, reruns of shows no one cares about anymore, and the Weather Channel on repeat. In the age of Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, “free cable” is about as relevant as Blockbuster.
Overhype Factor: 9/10
Pro Tip: Stick to streaming and avoid a nostalgic deep dive into boring TV purgatory.
5. “Resort-Style” Pools That Are Basically Kiddie Splash Zones
The term “resort-style pool” gets thrown around a lot in RV park ads, but let’s not get too carried away. In reality, you’re probably dealing with a crowded little rectangle that’s about three feet deep and loaded with screaming kids who haven’t quite mastered the art of not cannonballing every five seconds.
Sure, a pool can be nice on a hot day, but “resort-style” this is not. Lower your expectations, and you won’t be disappointed.
Overhype Factor: 7.5/10
Pro Tip: If you’re really looking for relaxation, find a quiet lake or river instead.
The Takeaway On Overrated RV Park Amenities: Keep It Simple, Keep It Real
Don’t get swept up in the hype. The best RV parks are the ones that keep it real with clean facilities, good vibes, and a killer location—no need for all the extra bells and whistles.
Sometimes, less is more, and if you’ve got a comfy spot to park, access to nature, and a solid campfire setup, that’s really all you need.
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Sorry. I have to disagree. Grills are a huge benefit and we probably would not stay at one without them. I also think camp stores are very important. There is always something you forget. Better to pay more and have what you need then possibly miss out on the experience. I would not call anything you listed as overrated other the pool and hot tub. I think the campgrounds need all these amenities. And if they are needed they cannot be overrated.
I agree wholeheartedly with Robert!
On the other side of the coin, I have never in 30+ years used any grill other than my own. I don’t think I have bought anything other than an ice cream bar from the camp stores. The prices are most often ridiculous. A larger campsite where I won’t have to listen to my neighbor fart is much more important to us.
I disagree about cable tv. If Wi-Fi is notoriously bad, or the campground crowded enough to have serious internet congestion, how would Netflix or YouTube be of any use? Not everyone has an expensive cellular internet setup, especially the recreational non-full time camper.