"length" vs "flexibility" with campsite restrictions

[NathanArnold]

We just poured a brand new concrete pad with RV connections built-in and are are starting to seriously shop rigs (RV not trailer) preparing to purchase within the next few months.

During the year, we will use the RV as an AirBnB (we live in a great location to do that) but plan to do some traveling in summers with family, see national parks etc.

Because the unit will be parked 90% of the year (essentially used as a tiny house rental) our first inclination was to go big in the 38ft 40ft range with slide-outs... but I'm now wondering if aiming for 35ft or 34 ft would be worth the flexibility when we're traveling to allow for more campsite availability etc esp. in some national parks. We'll be towing a vehicle behind so will have transportation once the unit is parked (size not an issue there).

Curious to hear thoughts or if crossing that 35 ft really makes a difference in practicality or not so much.

Thanks!

 

[NathanArnold]

Still looking for any thoughts on this... maybe from folks with 36ft+ units. Have those with RV's (not trailers) more than 35 feet long had significant challenges with site availability in parks or campgrounds because of the length being more than 35ft?

 

[NYSUPstater]

From what I gather, most state and national parks were orig designed for RV's 35' and under. But as time moves on, the rigs have gotten longer and longer. Some campgrounds say they can accommodate large rigs, but large is debatable depending on which side of the phone your on. We've been lucky so far w/ our 41' BC and think just 1x we had a VERY tight site.

 

[NathanArnold]

Thank you. Do you find that some campgrounds or parks are "flexible"... ie they say on paper that they will only accommodate 35ft but they'll fudge a bit for 38 or 40 if you can make it work?

 

[Shortest Straw]

We just poured a brand new concrete pad with RV connections built-in and are are starting to seriously shop rigs (RV not trailer) preparing to purchase within the next few months.

During the year, we will use the RV as an AirBnB (we live in a great location to do that) but plan to do some traveling in summers with family, see national parks etc.

Because the unit will be parked 90% of the year (essentially used as a tiny house rental) our first inclination was to go big in the 38ft 40ft range with slide-outs... but I'm now wondering if aiming for 35ft or 34 ft would be worth the flexibility when we're traveling to allow for more campsite availability etc esp. in some national parks. We'll be towing a vehicle behind so will have transportation once the unit is parked (size not an issue there).

Curious to hear thoughts or if crossing that 35 ft really makes a difference in practicality or not so much.

Thanks!

Our rig is 44 ft long. While we have some issues getting into places, we also do some heavy research to make sure we fit. Our biggest problem is when an rv park says they have a site that will accommodate us, the parking for our pickup is very minimal. We stay in many state parks without issue. Many we do not even attempt. We had a 38 ft prior to this one and it really didn't change anything for us. You still must do the research. And yes, the length is pretty accurate on the web sites. Last point to make, Heartland does not make motorhomes, so everyone in this forum is pulling a trailer of some sort. I think you are in the wrong place.

 

[NathanArnold]

Oh okay--good to know with the trailer/forum feedback. Thanks for the good advice!