What Is the CampScanner and How Does It Work?

If you’ve been struggling to make reservations at popular spots, CampScanner could be your solution.

Despite the increase in RV sales, many campgrounds haven’t expanded their openings. It’s becoming more common for them to reach capacity, even in the off-season.

Today, we’re sharing how CampScanner can give you an advantage in snagging those coveted campsites.

Let’s get to it!

Frustrated man looking at his laptop. He probably could use CampScanner.

About CampScanner

CampScanner is a tool created by Joel Holland’s company, Harvest Hosts. It hit the scene in May 2023 and has changed how you can book sites at premier destinations. If you’re not using it, you’re at a disadvantage, plain and simple.

This resource monitors changes in availability at more than 200,000 campsites across 9,600 campgrounds. Its vast database contains some of the most desired locations, including favored state and national parks.

Users must buy an annual membership, which determines the number and frequency of scans. While subscribers see it as a way of working smarter, not everyone appreciates the edge they have.

In fact, some in the RV community frown upon it and feel it gives an unfair edge.

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How Does It Work?

Using CampScanner is relatively easy. Their website lets you complete the search process before becoming a member. Like a free trial, it lets you familiarize yourself with the platform. Then, you can see if it’s right for you before spending money.

Since not every campground participates, we recommend searching to confirm your desired locations are in their system.

You’ll need to input the facility where you want to stay to get started. Once they locate it, they’ll direct you through a series of filters. With these, you can make your scan as specific as possible. Set your dates and number of nights before clicking the “start scan” button.

CampScanner will then closely monitor for possible openings that match your filters. You’ll receive a text message when it finds a campsite has become available. Then, log on to the reservation platform to snag it.

This can be a good backup: What Is Boondocking? And, How You’ll Save Money Doing It!

Why You Need CampScanner

The RV industry experienced a burst in sales in recent years. Manufacturers broke records month after month as campers practically sold themselves.

While sales have slowed, the demand from owners looking for a place to park their new rigs hasn’t. This has caused campground reservations to disappear quickly. In tourist destinations, they can disappear within seconds of becoming available.

Scoring a spot in the Florida Keys, Yellowstone, or Yosemite can feel like you’ve won the lottery. Sadly, those less fortunate must continue to hunt for a place to camp and enjoy their investment.

Travelers looking for an edge over the competition are turning to CampScanner. Instead of sitting at your computer and loading the page constantly, the technology does the work for you.

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How Much Does CampScanner Cost?

As you can imagine, CampScanner doesn’t offer their services for free. It offers three different plans with varying costs.

Their basic plan is the Basecamp, which costs $39 per year. It allows for five scans that occur every 15 minutes. This may be the most economical option for recreational campers.

The two remaining plans, Trailhead ($49) and Summit ($79), are best for nomads and regular adventurers. With the Trailhead, you’ll get ten searches that refresh every ten minutes. On the other hand, the Summit can review 15 individual inquiries every five minutes.

Which one is right for you will depend on your situation.

Yosemite National Park California Campground Informational Sign showing most campgrounds full

Are There Any Disadvantages?

On the surface, CampScanner sounds like an easy decision. However, it’s essential to understand that while 9,600 is a lot of campgrounds, it’s far from all of them.

It only monitors those using the Reserve America or Recreation.gov platforms. States or private parks that use other booking systems get overlooked. So you won’t be able to receive alerts for them.

Additionally, it could be an unnecessary expense for RV owners. Signing up might not be worth it if you’re not struggling to snag camping reservations.

Recreational campers who book a few sites each year typically will benefit less than full-timers.

What Are the Alternatives to CampScanner?

CampScanner may have one of the best names, but other providers offer the same service. Several competitors provide the same features and overall experience.

Other resources include CampNab, Campsite Assist, and Wandering Labs. Pricing varies considerably, but Wandering Labs offers the best deal as they have a free version. It could be an excellent option for those who won’t regularly use the service.

Just like CampScanner, the alternatives have their pros and cons. Since you’re registering for an annual membership, make sure you do your research before signing up. You want to know that the resource will provide value to you before you sign.

Not sure where to camp this year? Check out the National Park Service Camping Directory.

Is CampScanner Worth It?

We’ve experienced the sting of a full campground and the frustrations it creates. Paying for a resource to monitor specific locations constantly could be worth it. However, we recognize that these services don’t benefit every RVer.

But, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re missing out, consider CampScanner.