How to Find Cheap RV Park & Campground

Explore budget-friendly camping like a pro. From public lands and state parks to dispersed RV sites, this guide helps you save on travel while enjoying safe, scenic, and affordable campgrounds nationwide.

With travel costs rising, finding ways to explore the outdoors without breaking the bank has become more important than ever. For many, camping isn’t just about saving money, it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying the freedom of the open road.

But while camping may seem cheap, costs can quickly add up. Things like nightly campground fees, fuel, gear, and food can easily rival the price of a hotel stay if you’re not strategic.

The good news? Across the U.S., there are many low-cost places to pitch a tent or park an RV. This guide will give you the tools, resources, and insider tips to find affordable campgrounds and RV parks anywhere, so you can focus on what really matters: making memories under the stars.

What Makes a Campground “Cheap”?

When people say they’re looking for a “cheap” place to camp, they can mean different things. This could be a $10 primitive tent site, a $25 state park campsite with showers, or even a free boondocking spot on public land.

Instead of chasing only the lowest price, it helps to understand what drives campground costs and how to identify the best value for your style of camping.

Price Ranges: Public vs. Private Campgrounds

Campgrounds fall into two main categories: public and private. Public spots, like those in national forests and state parks, usually cost less. You might find a campsite in a national park for $10 to $20 per night.

Private campgrounds, like parks and resorts with RV parking, charge more. They can cost $50 to $100 per night, depending on the amenities and how often travelers travel in an RV to explore different destinations.

Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect:

National Forests: $5–$20 per night (sometimes free at dispersed sites)
State Parks: $15–$40 per night depending on amenities and the state
Private RV Parks: $30–$60 per night (often with hookups and Wi-Fi)
Luxury RV Resorts: $60–$120+ per night (clubhouses, pools, full hookups, etc.

Campground Type	Typical Price Range (per night)	Key Features / Amenities
National Forests	$5–$20 (sometimes free for dispersed sites)	Basic or no amenities; scenic, rustic locations; ideal for boondocking.
State Parks	$15–$40	Restrooms, picnic tables, sometimes electric hookups; pricing varies by state and location.
Private RV Parks	$30–$60	Full or partial hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and community spaces.
Luxury RV Resorts	$60–$120+	High-end amenities such as pools, clubhouses, gyms, and full-service hookups.

What Influences Campground Pricing

Several things can affect how much a campsite costs. These include:

Amenities: Electricity, water hookups, showers, Wi-Fi, and laundry will raise nightly fees.
Location: Proximity to attractions (e.g., Grand Canyon, beaches, ski towns) comes at a premium.
Seasonality: Summer and holidays are peak times in most regions; off-season rates can be half the price.
Access: Remote sites or walk-in campgrounds are cheaper, but may lack paved roads or RV access.
Ownership: Public lands (national forests, BLM) tend to be cheapest; private parks charge more for convenience and consistency.

By understanding these factors, you can make a smarter choice about where to camp.

Where to Find Inexpensive Campgrounds

Finding cheap campgrounds is easy when you know where to look. The United States has many camping spots for all budgets. You can camp in a peaceful state park, on a big farm, or near beautiful spots in Alabama, Virginia, New Mexico, Arizona, or Georgia.

National Forests and BLM Land

Camping on public land is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel. National forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas provide low-cost and often free camping opportunities for tent campers, van lifers, and RV travelers alike.

Recreation.gov is the official federal recreation reservation system, covering over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across multiple agencies. BLM offers both developed campgrounds (typically $10–$30 per night) and free dispersed camping, with stay limits (usually up to 14 days in a 28-day period).

Why public lands are cost-effective:

Dispersed camping is permitted in most national forests and BLM lands, allowing campers to stay outside of developed sites without paying fees.
14-day stay limits are common, offering extended access for travelers on longer routes.
Minimal infrastructure means fewer amenities, but also fewer costs, ideal for self-contained RVs or campers with portable gear.

These areas are often found in scenic, remote locations throughout the western and midwestern U.S., with abundant opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and solitude. Dispersed camping remains free on many BLM lands, but always check local rules and look for safe options for overnight RV parking when traveling through unfamiliar areas.

State Parks, County Parks, and City-Operated Sites

For campers who prefer more structure and facilities without high costs, state parks and municipal campgrounds offer a reliable middle ground between public land and private RV resorts.

Budget-Friendly Features:

State parks usually offer well-maintained sites with basic amenities like restrooms, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Many also provide electric hookups or RV dump stations.
Fees are generally moderate, with tent sites starting around $15–$20 per night and RV sites ranging from $25–$40 depending on amenities and location.
Online reservation systems make planning easy, particularly during peak seasons.

Recreation.gov handles reservations for campground sites, some requiring service or reservation fees (e.g., $10 to modify or cancel) in addition to nightly charges.

Local Government-Run Options:

County parks often provide access to lakes, trails, and recreational facilities at very reasonable prices.
City-operated campgrounds and fairgrounds are frequently available in rural areas or near small towns, offering inexpensive overnight stays with basic amenities.

These campgrounds are especially useful for travelers looking for last-minute options or seeking less-crowded alternatives to state or national parks. They are commonly listed on regional tourism websites or in campground directories.

Membership-Based Discount Campgrounds

Membership-based camping programs provide access to networks of campgrounds with varying discounts, stay options, and rules. Here’s an overview of common programs:

Passport America – Provides discounted nightly rates at campgrounds across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Harvest Hosts – Allows overnight stays at farms, wineries, and other small businesses, usually with an expectation of supporting the host through a purchase.
Thousand Trails – Offers access to a network of campgrounds organized into regional zones, with stay length limits depending on the membership plan.
Boondockers Welcome – Connects RV travelers with private-property hosts for short-term stays, often free or with minimal cost.
Good Sam Club – Offers reduced rates at affiliated campgrounds and additional benefits, such as basic travel and fuel discounts.

Each of these programs comes with its own rules and limitations, so travelers should review coverage areas, maximum stay lengths, and amenity access before committing.

Best Cheap Campgrounds by Region

The U.S. has many camping spots, with cheap options everywhere. You can choose from desert getaways, forest retreats, or coastal trips. There are affordable campsites for every need.

Budget-Friendly Campsites in the Western U.S.

The Western U.S. is ideal for campers seeking dramatic landscapes and open skies. This region includes vast public lands managed by the National Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, as well as inexpensive state parks.

Popular low-cost camping areas include:

Desert locations such as the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts, where dispersed camping is widely permitted.
Mountainous zones like those in Colorado and Utah, offering affordable state park sites with access to trails and lakes.
Pacific Northwest forests, including low-fee campgrounds in Oregon and Washington with shaded sites and access to rivers or hot springs.

Many of these campgrounds provide basic services like vault toilets and picnic tables. Some also accommodate RVs with limited hookups, making them versatile for both primitive and vehicle-based camping. For longer stays or trips into nearby towns, many travelers choose to tow their car behind an RV for added convenience.

Affordable Campgrounds in the Midwest and South

The Midwest and Southern regions offer a mix of forested retreats, lakeside camping, and rural park systems that provide excellent value for travelers looking to avoid crowds and high nightly fees.

Campers in these regions often benefit from:

State parks in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Arkansas with full hookups and fishing access at lower rates than coastal areas.
County parks and wildlife management areas across Iowa, Missouri, and Mississippi that offer scenic settings at reduced cost.
Public campgrounds in Louisiana and Georgia, where overnight fees are often under $20, even for RVs with basic amenities.

These regions are well-suited for families, solo travelers, and retirees seeking quiet, well-maintained campgrounds with reliable amenities and a relaxed pace.

Low-Cost Coastal and Eastern Camping Options

The Eastern U.S. includes some of the most popular coastal destinations in the country, but there are still plenty of opportunities for affordable camping, especially in state-managed facilities and national recreation areas.

Some of the best options include:

Florida state parks with beach access and tent or RV sites for under $30 per night.
Maine and the Carolinas, where inland campgrounds near lakes or forests offer low fees and natural beauty.
National seashores, such as Assateague Island in Maryland and Cape Lookout in North Carolina, that offer primitive beach camping at reasonable rates.

When exploring Eastern or coastal locations, it’s important to plan ahead, as popular campgrounds tend to fill quickly. Many accept reservations, allowing travelers to secure a budget-friendly site well in advance.

Free and Nearly-Free Camping Alternatives

If you want to save money on camping, check out free and nearly-free spots. These places let you enjoy nature without spending a lot.

Boondocking and Dispersed Camping on Public Land

Boondocking refers to off-grid camping, typically without hookups on public land. This includes dispersed camping, where travelers can set up outside of developed campgrounds, often for free. Managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service, millions of acres are open to this type of access.

Key things to know about boondocking and dispersed camping:

BLM land and national forests allow dispersed camping in designated areas for up to 14 days, ideal for RVers, van lifers, or tent camping enthusiasts.
These sites usually do not include amenities like restrooms, electricity, or drinking water, so travelers must be self-sufficient.
Scenic options for camping near lakes, deserts, or mountains can be found in areas like Utah, Arizona, and Colorado.
It’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations before setting up camp.

Dispersed camping remains free on many BLM lands, but always check local rules, avoid closed areas, camp at least 100 ft from water sources, and limit stay to 14 days in a 28-day window.

Campgrounds with Volunteer-for-Stay Programs

Another way to access low-cost camping is through volunteer exchange programs. Many public lands, wildlife preserves, and nonprofit campgrounds offer free or discounted stays in exchange for light duties like trail maintenance, visitor support, or facility upkeep.

Volunteer-for-stay programs typically offer:

Free campsites, sometimes including cabins or RV hookups for those willing to contribute a set number of work hours.
Opportunities for tent campers or RVers to stay in popular or otherwise expensive locations without paying nightly fees.
A chance to give back to the environment while experiencing unique campgrounds, including those camping near national parks, beaches, or forest areas.

These programs can be found through the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, state parks, or independent conservation groups.

Free and nearly-free camping spots can save you money. Whether you boondock or volunteer, you’ll have more camping adventures. Enjoy the outdoors without spending a lot.

Tips for Saving Money on Campground and RV Park Stays

Camping on a budget doesn’t mean compromising the experience, it means planning smart and choosing the right camping locations. With a few adjustments to your timing, tools, and travel habits, you can save money while still enjoying the great outdoors.

Booking in Off-Peak Seasons and Midweek Nights

Campground pricing fluctuates based on seasonality and demand. Booking during off-peak times, such as spring or fall or staying midweek can result in significantly lower rates.

To cut nightly costs, consider:

Avoiding peak vacation periods like major holidays or summer weekends.
Choosing midweek arrivals when some parks provide reduced rates.
Staying on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, where many BLM campgrounds and free dispersed camping sites are available at little or no cost.

For travelers driving long distances, understanding the rules about sleeping at a rest stop can also help cut costs and provide flexibility during overnight travel. Those with a flexible schedule or the ability to travel short term, these off-peak stays are a unique opportunity to enjoy camping more affordably.

Using Camping Apps to Compare Prices and Amenities

The right app to find campgrounds can be a powerful budgeting tool. Many apps let you compare prices, view amenities, and read camper reviews, helping you make informed decisions about where to stay.

Recommended apps include:

Camping App	Features	Price Comparison
Campgrounds by Allstays	Reviews, filters for rig size, dump stations, and back-ins	Yes
FreeCampsites.net	Public land maps, reviews, options for free camping	No (focuses on free)
Camping.com	Booking platform for campgrounds across the U.S.	Yes

These platforms help organize your trip, especially if you’re looking for sites offering certain amenities, like pet-friendly areas or access to trails.

What to Expect from a Cheap Campground

Understanding what to expect from a budget-friendly campground helps you prepare for the experience and avoid surprises. While not all low-cost options offer luxury, many provide the essentials you need for a relaxing and carefree getaway.

Basic Amenities and Setup

Most cheap campgrounds include:

Picnic tables, fire rings, and ample space to pitch your tent.
Access to shared restrooms or pit toilets.
Limited or no hookups for electricity and water.
Designated tent pads or basic back-in sites for small RVs.

Some may also offer cabins or small shelters for rent at modest prices, especially in state parks or rural areas where glamping options are expanding.

While not every location has high-end services, the value lies in the setting, simplicity, and connection to nature.

Safety, Cleanliness, and Reviews to Check

Not all cheap campgrounds are equal in quality, so doing a little research goes a long way.

Always check reviews to ensure the site is well-maintained and secure.
Look for recent guest feedback on cleanliness, noise levels, and staff responsiveness.
Pay attention to how a campground handles delicate areas like trash disposal and fire safety.

A trusted recommendation from other campers can make all the difference. Whether you’re on a long road trip or a weekend getaway, knowing the basics helps you enjoy camping with confidence, at a fraction of the usual cost.

Conclusion

Finding affordable campground and RV park options doesn’t require sacrificing comfort, flexibility, or scenic locations.

From free dispersed camping on BLM land to state park stays and discounted memberships, travelers have a wide range of cost-effective choices, whether you’re pitching your tent, reserving a cabin, or exploring in a rig.

With the right tools, research, and timing, you can organize a camping experience that fits your budget and allows you to fully enjoy the great outdoors.

If you’re planning your next road trip or weekend getaway, keeping your RV secure while you’re home is just as important as where you camp. RecNation offers clean, secure RV storage facilities across the U.S., so you can return from your adventures with peace of mind. Explore RV storage options near you and keep your travel plans carefree from start to finish.

FAQ

What is considered a cheap campground?

A cheap campground typically costs under $20 per night and includes basic amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, or fire pits. These budget-friendly sites are often found in national forests, state parks, or BLM-managed lands.

How do I find cheap campgrounds near my location?

To find cheap campgrounds near you, use camping apps like Campendium, FreeCampsites.net, or Allstays. These tools allow you to search by location, compare prices, and find low-cost or free public land options.

What amenities do cheap campgrounds usually offer?

Cheap campgrounds typically offer basic services such as picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and designated tent or RV spots. Some sites may include limited water or electric hookups, but most focus on essential infrastructure rather than luxury amenities.

Is it safe to camp at cheap or free campgrounds?

Yes, many cheap or free campgrounds are safe when properly vetted. Checking recent reviews, confirming that the location is publicly managed, and following general camping safety guidelines will help ensure a secure experience.

How can I save money on camping and RV park stays?

You can save money by traveling during off-peak seasons, staying midweek, using apps to compare prices, and choosing public land for free dispersed camping.