RV camping offers freedom and adventure, but not all RV parks deliver the experience travelers expect. Based on user reviews from platforms like RV LIFE, Campendium, Yelp, and Reddit, some parks consistently receive negative feedback for issues like poor management, hidden fees, or subpar facilities.
This article highlights 11 RV parks to approach with caution in 2025, including real quotes from reviewers, approximate nightly prices, addresses, and a few positives to consider despite the criticism.
While these parks have drawn significant complaints, they may still appeal to certain travelers depending on priorities like location or affordability.
1. Desert Rose RV Park – Fernley, NV
Address: 3555 US Hwy 50, Fernley, NV 89408
Approximate Price: $40–$50/night
Why Beware: Reviewers frequently cite reservation mishandling and poor customer service.
Quote: “Arrived at Desert Rose RV Park on August 26th 2017. I have a confirmation email for two nights… When I arrived, I was told they did not have a space for me because they screwed up the reservation. Even though there were empty spaces, they refused to give me a space.” – RV LIFE reviewer
Other Complaints:
Unreliable Wi-Fi and cramped sites.
Dusty, poorly maintained grounds.
Unresponsive staff when issues arise.
Positives:
Convenient location near I-80 for travelers passing through.
Some reviewers praise the quiet atmosphere at night.
Affordable for short stays compared to nearby alternatives.
2. Preferred RV Resort – Pahrump, NV
Address: 1801 Crawford Way, Pahrump, NV 89048
Approximate Price: $45–$60/night (Passport America discounts available)
Why Beware: Overbooking and misrepresentation of accommodations are common grievances.
Quote: “DO NOT STAY AT THIS RV PARK!!!!! We were told that the Park model accommodations we reserved 3-weeks in advance would not be honored… They could not provide an answer as to why they continued taking reservations when all the Park models were reserved.” – Campendium reviewer
Other Complaints:
Narrow roads and tight sites, difficult for larger rigs.
Inconsistent pricing, with some charged higher rates than advertised.
Lack of clear communication from management.
Positives:
Amenities like a covered pool, hot tub, and crafting room.
Close to Death Valley (70 minutes) and Las Vegas (1 hour).
Gated community offers a sense of security.
3. Zion View RV Park – Hurricane, UT
Address: 1333 S Main St, Hurricane, UT 84737
Approximate Price: $60–$80/night
Why Beware: Misleading proximity to Zion National Park and lack of amenities disappoint guests.
Quote: “We were told we were nearby the Zion park but upon our arrival we were 30 minutes away… The park did not have a representative that you could speak to and there was no shuttle service provided. This park was one of the most expensive in our travel and they had nothing to offer.” – RV LIFE reviewer
Other Complaints:
No laundry facilities or on-site staff.
High prices for minimal services.
Unfriendly local community, per some reviews.
Positives:
New, clean facilities with immaculate concrete pads.
Quiet setting, ideal for those seeking solitude.
Decent base for exploring southern Utah’s attractions.
4. Montrose – San Juan RV Park – Montrose, CO
Address: 1211 S San Juan Ave, Montrose, CO 81401
Approximate Price: $50–$65/night
Why Beware: Poor management and outdated facilities have tarnished its reputation.
Quote: “The manner in which the owners/managers handled their situation is so egregious as to condemn them as park stewards. The negative reviews they are now receiving on the internet are a good way of disseminating this information to all campers.” – RV LIFE reviewer
Other Complaints:
Run-down restrooms and weak Wi-Fi.
Inflexible policies, like refusing packages for guests.
History of low ratings, even after claiming “new management.”
Positives:
Scenic location near Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
Some sites offer shade and spacious layouts.
Affordable for the area compared to resort-style parks.
5. J & H RV Park – Flagstaff, AZ
Address: 7901 N US Hwy 89, Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Approximate Price: $55–$70/night
Why Beware: Noise from nearby train tracks and poor site conditions frustrate campers.
Quote: “The train tracks are 100’ away and BUSY. I’ve used RVparkreviews a LOT – for the inside scoop… Stuff like this is what you need to know.” – Good Sam reviewer
Other Complaints:
Uneven, gravel sites that are hard to level.
Spotty Wi-Fi and limited cell service.
Staff described as indifferent to guest concerns.
Positives:
Proximity to Grand Canyon (1.5 hours) and Sedona (45 minutes).
Some reviewers appreciate the wooded setting.
Pet-friendly with a small dog park.
6. Fort Myers RV Resort – Fort Myers, FL
Address: 16800 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33908
Approximate Price: $65–$90/night
Why Beware: Hidden fees and unclean facilities are major pain points.
Quote: “Neglecting to post all fees up front is one way to get on your guests’ bad side… One camper who spent a weekend complained about several unforeseen charges on his bill, including a ‘non-disclosed’ deposit and extra for using credit cards.” – RoverPass reviewer
Other Complaints:
Dirty restrooms and showers.
Crowded sites with little privacy.
High prices for seasonal stays in winter.
Positives:
Close to Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island.
On-site pool and shuffleboard courts.
Active social events for long-term guests.
7. Aguanga RV Campground – Aguanga, CA
Address: 45525 Hwy 79, Aguanga, CA 92536
Approximate Price: $45–$60/night
Why Beware: Poor handling of property damage claims and unresponsive staff.
Quote: “After a lawnmower flung a rock and cracked the RV’s windshield, the guest tried to file a complaint at the office and the desk staff promptly split. Management never responded to emails or returned phone calls.” – RoverPass reviewer
Other Complaints:
Dusty roads and outdated utilities.
Weak cell signal and Wi-Fi.
Some sites are too narrow for larger RVs.
Positives:
Scenic rural setting in Southern California.
Generally quiet, away from urban noise.
Some reviewers note friendly long-term residents.
8. Jellystone Park – Waller, TX
Address: 34843 Betka Rd, Waller, TX 77484
Approximate Price: $50–$75/night
Why Beware: Overcrowding and noise from rowdy campers detract from the experience.
Quote: “Combine a much-anticipated weekend getaway, a group of friends eager to blow off some steam… In no time, you’ll have a small crowd of drunk coeds singing ‘Bye, Bye Miss American Pie’ on an endless, out-of-tune loop.” – RoverPass reviewer
Other Complaints:
Slow response to noise complaints.
Small, uneven sites with poor drainage.
High prices for family-oriented amenities.
Positives:
Kid-friendly with water park and playgrounds.
Convenient to Houston (45 minutes).
Some guests enjoy the lively, social vibe.
9. Lazy Acres RV Park – Center Point, TX
Address: 123 Lazy Acres Rd, Center Point, TX 78010
Approximate Price: $40–$55/night
Why Beware: Strict cancellation policies and poor value for money.
Quote: “We had to cancel a reservation 6 days in advance. We not only lost the deposit, but they charged the ENTIRE FEE OF THE STAY WITH NO RAINCHECK… My review warned about their cancellation policy but they would not publish.” – RV LIFE reviewer
Other Complaints:
Limited amenities for the price.
Gravel sites prone to mud after rain.
Inconsistent staff friendliness.
Positives:
Peaceful location along the Guadalupe River.
Good for fishing and kayaking.
Some reviewers praise the relaxed atmosphere.
10. KOA Journey – Tucumcari, NM
Address: 6299 Quay Rd AL, Tucumcari, NM 88401
Approximate Price: $45–$65/night
Why Beware: Run-down facilities and overpriced sites disappoint travelers.
Quote: “Parks like KOA Journey are usually placed near roads we travel but can be overpriced and as of lately, many of them are getting pretty run down.” – The Diesel Apartment reviewer
Other Complaints:
Weak Wi-Fi and limited cable TV channels.
Small sites with minimal shade.
Dusty environment and noisy highway proximity.
Positives:
Easy access off I-40 for overnight stops.
Pet-friendly with a dog park.
On-site store for basic supplies.
11. Sunshine RV Park – Lake Placid, FL
Address: 303 SR 70 E, Lake Placid, FL 33852
Approximate Price: $55–$80/night
Why Beware: Roach-infested rentals and questionable billing practices.
Quote: “The Resort put me in a roach-infested 1970’s trailer should of been decommissioned yrs ago… They figured since its covered by my RV insurance I’d be reimbursed.” – RV LIFE reviewer
Other Complaints:
Overpriced for outdated facilities.
Poor maintenance of common areas.
Hidden fees for utilities and amenities.
Positives:
Central location for exploring Florida’s interior.
Some sites offer full hookups and 50-amp service.
Friendly community for seasonal snowbirds.
How to Approach RV Park Reviews
Negative reviews often reflect specific expectations or isolated incidents, so context matters. As noted by RV LIFE, “Not all bad RV park reviews are helpful… What one person hates might be exactly what you’re looking for.” Check recent reviews, as management or facilities may have improved.
Look for consistent complaints (e.g., unclean restrooms or hidden fees) to identify red flags. Platforms like RV LIFE Campground Reviews and Campendium offer detailed filters to match your RV type and needs.
Tips for Avoiding Bad RV Park Experiences
- Research Thoroughly: Use multiple review sites and Google Satellite Maps to inspect layouts.
- Clarify Fees: Confirm all charges upfront to avoid surprises.
- Check Amenities: Ensure Wi-Fi, hookups, or other must-haves meet your standards.
- Contact Management: Call ahead to verify site size and policies for your rig.
- Be Flexible: If a park disappoints, have backup options nearby.
Use Your Best Judgment
While these 11 RV parks have drawn significant criticism online, they may still suit budget-conscious travelers or those prioritizing location over amenities. By understanding the complaints—ranging from poor management to hidden fees—and weighing them against positives like scenic settings or affordability, you can make informed decisions.
Always cross-reference reviews and contact parks directly to ensure they meet your expectations for a safe, enjoyable RV adventure.
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