You may have heard that you should never buy an RV longer than 30 feet in length if you plan to camp in national parks. Is that true? Like many rumors you hear, there’s some truth to the statement, but it’s not an absolute rule.
Many national park campgrounds were developed decades ago when smaller rigs were more common. Campsites may not be long enough to accommodate today’s behemoth rigs, and many parks have narrow, winding roadways. Because of this, you’ll often hear about the 30-foot “rule” at national park campgrounds.
The National Park Service (NPS) operates more than 130 campgrounds. While some are rustic, others were built—or renovated in recent years—to host longer, larger modern RVs, up to 40 or 50 feet, meaning it’s possible to camp in a national park with an RV that’s longer than 30 feet. Before booking any national park campsite, check with the individual campground to see what size is permitted. This information is generally posted on the National Park Service and Recreation.gov websites. If you can’t find an appropriate NPS campsite, you’ll often find numerous private parks outside the entrance gates.
What to Know About RV Camping in National Parks
What size RV is best for national parks?
If you’re purchasing an RV and want to ensure the broadest access to national park campgrounds, you should purchase a rig that’s under 30 feet, though parks may accommodate up to 40 feet or more. Also, be sure to note that campsite selection will be more limited the longer your rig is. Aim for 20 to 25 feet—or less—if you want the best access.
Here are the RV length restrictions from some popular national parks:
- Yosemite National Park: 24 feet for trailers and 35 feet for motorhomes, though a handful of sites in Yosemite Valley can accommodate longer rigs.
- Yellowstone National Park: Fishing Bridge Campground is capped at 40 feet for a combined trailer and tow vehicle. Other campgrounds state a 30-feet maximum length.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Campgrounds vary; several can accommodate RVs between 35 and 40 feet in length.
The NPS often posts different lengths for trailers and motorhomes (which the agency refers to as RVs). Tow vehicles pulling travel trailers require a wider turning radius, especially for back-in sites. Remember that the roads, not just the campsites, need to be able to accommodate your rig. Also, make sure your campsite provides room to park your tow vehicle.
Are Class A motorhomes allowed in national parks?
Class A motorhomes are allowed in national parks and at NPS campgrounds, as long as they fit within the length requirements.
Can you drive an RV into a national park?
You can drive and pull RVs into national parks. Certain roads or portions of the park may be limited, and finding a parking spot while touring may be the biggest challenge.
Do national park campgrounds have full hookups?
Hookups vary at national park campgrounds, so it’s important to always do your research. You’re less likely to find full hookups at NPS campsites than at private campgrounds.
Important Features to Look for in RVs for Frequent National Park Travel
- Gear storage: If you have a sport or hobby that you enjoy while visiting national parks, make sure your rig has adequate storage for your gear and equipment, especially if you want to carry bulkier items like kayaks and bikes.
- Off-grid capabilities: Since hookups may be limited in national park campgrounds, a rig with a generator or solar power system is desirable. Also, consider the size of your holding tanks if you’re camping without hookups.
- Hard-sided versus soft-sided: Some national park campgrounds recommend or require hard-sided trailers instead of pop-up or hybrid campers with canvas sides due to wildlife. If you camp in a soft-sided trailer in some parks, you may be required to use a bear locker to store foods and scented hygiene products.
Rigs We Love for National Park Camping
The following rigs are the best RVs for national park camping because of their lengths and features.
KZ Escape E17 HATCH
KZ’s HATCH lineup features a rear door that lifts, providing easy access for storing gear, much like a toy hauler. While these trailers don’t have the cargo capacity to carry heavy toys, they can handle bikes, kayaks, and more, without the bulky length or width of traditional toy haulers. Plus, the rear door opens for unparalleled views of the national park scenery around you. The E14 features a versatile lounge area, full-sized bed, kitchen, and bath—coming in at less than 19 feet in length.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 3,320 pounds |
| GVWR | 4,000 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 550 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 22 feet |
| Exterior Height | 9 feet, 4 inches (without A/C) |
| Fresh Water Tank | 20 gallons |
| Black Tank | 30 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 30 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $37,259 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
The off-grid package adds solar power, a tongue bike rack, and heated holding tanks. Plus, the higher ground clearance and beefier tires make it easier to go off the beaten path.
More information on this national park-friendly RV can be found here.
Winnebago HIKE 100
Winner of RV Business’s 2023 RV of the Year award, Winnebago’s HIKE 100 lineup is designed for those who seek adventures in the outdoors, with five floorplans and a bevy of standard features. Each model has a variety of storage options, with gear-loading doors and optional roof and hitch racks.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 3,110 to 3,212 pounds |
| GVWR | 4,200 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 462 to 576 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 15 feet, 11 inches |
| Exterior Height | 9 feet, 11 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 31 gallons |
| Black Tank | 4.75 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 25 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $46,135 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
The HIKE 100 series comes equipped for boondocking, thanks to the 200-watt solar panel, enclosed tanks, tank heaters, and radiant-foil insulation.
More information on this national park-friendly RV can be found here.
Forest River No Boundaries NB19.8
You don’t have to leave the kids behind just because you want a smaller trailer and big adventures. Forest River’s No Boundaries lineup offers lightweight trailers and tons of features geared toward outdoor recreation. The NB19.8 is one of two bunkhouse models and includes a dedicated queen-sized bed and a chaise dinette—or optional sofa.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 4,117 pounds |
| GVWR | 5,326 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 456 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 23 feet, 1 inch |
| Exterior Height | 9 feet, 11 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 30 gallons |
| Black Tank | 30 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 30 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $43,000 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
Add optional exterior Rhino Racks for kayaks, snowboards, bikes, fishing rods, and more. A central vac is included, making it easy to clean up after messy adventures.
More information on this RV can be found here.
Thor Motorcoach Tellaro 20A
Class B vans are perfect for national park camping thanks to their diminutive size. Plus, you can easily unhook and explore the park. Thor’s Tellaro 20A is a standout thanks to its generous features, including a pull-out, king-sized bed, Thule bike rack and roof racks, and a Truma hydronic furnace and water heater. Fresh air circulates quickly, thanks to the screen for the entry door.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| GCWR | 11,500 pounds |
| GVWR | 9,350 pounds |
| Hitch Weight Rating | 3,500 pounds |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Chassis | RAM Promaster |
| Fuel Capacity | 24 gallons |
| Exterior Length | 21 feet, 1 inch |
| Exterior Height | 9 feet, 5 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 27 gallons |
| Black Tank | 4.75 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 20 gallons |
| MSRP | $139,020 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
Bring the outdoors in and double your sleeping space with the optional SkyBunk Sleeping Area, which adds a retractable rooftop tent bed. A solar power system and lithium house batteries come standard.
More information on this national park-friendly RV can be found here.
Airstream Basecamp 20
If you want the luxury of an Airstream in a shorter package that you can haul practically anywhere, the Basecamp 20 is for you. Airstream designed this rig with adventure in mind. The front wraparound windows give you picturesque views of the surrounding national park landscapes, and the rear hatch door opens up for gear storage.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 3,400 pounds |
| GVWR | 4,300 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 500 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 20 feet, 2 inches |
| Exterior Height | 9 feet, 1.5 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 23 gallons |
| Black Tank | 21 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 28 gallons |
| MSRP | $54,400 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
Gain as much as 120 extra square feet by adding the attachable inflatable tube tent to take the living space outside. The tank heaters are helpful for camping year-round, and the Basecamp 20 comes prepped for solar if you plan to boondock.
More information on this national park-friendly RV can be found here.
Venture Sonic X SN220VRBX
Venture’s Sonic X lineup made a splash when it debuted in 2019, winning awards before it even went into production. Built from the ground up with off-grid travel in mind, the SN220VRBX comes standard with a roof-mounted solar package, two fresh water tanks, weather-shield protection, hidden storage, an innovative gear garage, and off-road tires. Select from a convertible murphy bed with a sofa or a dedicated bed.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 5,610 pounds |
| GVWR | 7,285 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 570 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 27 feet, 6 inches |
| Exterior Height | 10 feet, 4 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 78 gallons |
| Black Tank | 30 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 30 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $66,000 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
If you plan to boondock for extended periods, add the optional Xtreme water filtration system and 12-volt, 8-cubic-foot refrigerator.
More information on this national park-friendly RV can be found here.
Ember RV Overland 191MSL
What if you could hang a hammock or set up a small office space in your RV and look out on the national park landscape? The Ember RV Overland 191MSL makes both possible—and more. The unique 74-foot by 46-foot cargo area has many versatile uses thanks to the repositionable EmberTrack E-Track System, which makes it easy to transform the bunks into a desk or storage shelves. A large door opens to let in light and fresh air.
| SPECS | |
|---|---|
| UVW | 4,505 pounds |
| GVWR | 5,550 pounds |
| Hitch Weight | 605 pounds |
| Exterior Length | 22 feet, 6 inches |
| Exterior Height | 10 feet, 4 inches |
| Fresh Water Tank | 55 gallons |
| Black Tank | 35 gallons |
| Gray Tank | 35 gallons |
| MSRP | Starting at $60,691 |
FEATURES AND OPTIONS WE LOVE:
Serious boondockers should upgrade to the Max Solar Package, which adds a 3,000-watt inverter (instead of the standard 1,000-watt), two additional 200-watt solar panels, and more.
More information on this national park-friendly RV can be found here.
Togo RV is part of a joint venture, partially owned by Thor Industries, Inc., of which Airstream, KZ RV, Venture RV, and Thor Motorcoach are subsidiaries.
