Embracing Off-Season RV Travel with Winnebago

By: Brooke Baum; originally posted on the WGO blog

While you won't find empty roads and abandoned national parks when summer is officially over, the end of the season does mark a shift in RV travel. Of course, the most popular destinations will usually still need advanced reservations; however, you'll find that other great RVing locations across the country are much less busy and easier to book once peak season ends.  Traveling during off-peak times isn't possible for everyone, but if you do have that flexibility, there are some huge perks!

• Fewer crowds: At campgrounds, national parks, and other popular destinations, you can often expect much less competition for campsites outside of peak season. However, some destinations never really slow down, so do your research on the best time to visit if you do hope to have fewer crowds.
   

• Lower costs: You can find some great deals for camping in the off-season, especially if sticking around places with colder weather. However, just make sure your destination remains open to visitors because some campgrounds further north do close seasonally.
  
  
• More spontaneity: With fewer crowds and lower costs, you are able to be more spontaneous with your travel plans. It is always a good idea to have some boondocking backups, but you likely won't need to book months in advance like in summer.
  
  
• Unique seasonal experiences: Continuing your RV adventures in fall, winter, and spring can offer some great opportunities to see new or favorite places from a different perspective. You could also plan around seasonal natural events and festivals.However, peak season varies greatly depending on the location. For example, many destinations for viewing fall foliage or other natural wonders get busy during that time and should be booked in advance. Campgrounds and roads also often become busier around the holiday season since many people are out on trips to visit family.

With modern RVs providing the ability for comfortable winter camping, there really isn't a time of year that you won't see other RVers out on the road and enjoying their favorite campsites. However, the vast majority of RV travel still takes place over the summer since the weather is ideal in popular northern locations and kids are on break from school. The RV Industry Association reported that 92% of current RV owners that they surveyed intended to plan trips in the summer! For certain bucket-list RV destinations, like Alaska, the warmer months of the year are also the most practical time to visit to avoid extreme conditions. 

However, peak season varies greatly depending on the location. For example, many destinations for viewing fall foliage or other natural wonders get busy during that time and should be booked in advance. Campgrounds and roads also often become busier around the holiday season since many people are out on trips to visit family.

1. Avoid extreme weather
When off-season camping in your RV, it is important to keep a watchful eye on the weather since changes can happen quickly. Use sites like Weather Underground or NOAA to stay updated, but also know what to do if you get stuck in inclement weather unexpectedly. Sudden snowstorms, heavy rain, or high winds can quickly turn a pleasant trip into a risky situation.

Make sure your RV is properly insulated and that your heating system is functioning well. Carry essentials like tire chains, extra propane, blankets, and a weather radio. It’s also smart to brush up on winter driving techniques and know what to do if you find yourself stranded. This article has some great tips for dealing with winter storms when RVing. 

2. Check park & campground schedules
Some facilities may have reduced hours or will close entirely in winter. Look for year-round campgrounds or ones with winterized hookups when planning your off-season travel. Note that visitor centers may also have reduced hours, dump stations may be closed, and water hookups might be shut off to prevent freezing. 

3. Look for seasonal reviews
Not all online reviews reflect off-season experiences. A glowing review from someone who visited in July might not be relevant if you're planning a January trip. When reading reviews, be sure to see when people stayed at the campgrounds or boondocking spots you are considering so you can have realistic expectations for your visit.

4. Plan for fewer daylight hours
In fall and winter, the days can be significantly shorter, especially the further north you travel. It’s easy to underestimate how fast the light fades in the late afternoon, which can be a safety concern if you’re setting up camp or driving unfamiliar roads. Knowing the local sunrise and sunset times at your destination can help you better plan driving, hiking, and camp setup times. 

5. Check for road closures and maintenance
Off-season is often when road work and park maintenance take place, especially in areas with fewer visitors. Some scenic routes, mountain passes, or unpaved access roads may be closed due to snow, mud, or repairs. Before heading out, visit local DOT websites, the National Park Service, or apps like AllTrails to check for closures, detours, or alerts. This is especially crucial if you’re boondocking or heading into remote areas where alternative routes may be limited.