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Understanding KOA and Private RV Parks

Understanding KOA and Private RV Parks

Introduction

For many international travellers, where you stay your RV overnight in the United States is one of the biggest differences compared with Europe. In the US, overnight camping is generally more regulated and structured, and organised RV parks play a much larger role in trip planning. Two of the most common options you will encounter are KOA campgrounds and privately owned RV parks.

Understanding how these parks work is important for practical reasons: power and water access, waste disposal, safety expectations, arrival times, and distance planning when driving long American highways. Rules, site sizes, and booking systems can differ significantly from European campsites, and terminology is often unfamiliar to first-time US RV renters. This guide explains the differences between KOA and private RV parks, what facilities to expect, how to plan stops, and what international travellers should know before arrival. Always note that specific rules vary by park and by state.

What Is KOA?

KOA stands for Kampgrounds of America. It is a nationwide network of franchised RV parks found across the US, including near major cities and highways. KOA parks aim to provide relatively consistent standards, which many international visitors find reassuring, although facilities and amenities can still vary by location.

Typical KOA features

Clearly marked RV sites with defined size limits
Electric, water, and sewer connections (often described as “full hookups”, though not all sites have all services)
Restrooms, showers, and laundry rooms
On-site staff during posted office hours and defined check-in procedures
Online reservations through a central system

Compared with Europe, many KOA parks feel more structured and less dependent on peak season tourism, but seasonal hours and availability do exist in some regions. You usually stay on a gravel or paved pad rather than grass, and sites are more separated by roads than hedges.

What Are Private RV Parks?

Private RV parks are independently owned campgrounds that are not part of a nationwide chain. Standards, layouts, and enforcement of rules vary widely, which means you must read descriptions and reviews carefully before booking.

What to expect

Facilities may range from very basic to resort-style
Some parks cater mainly to long-term or seasonal guests
Older parks may have smaller sites or limited power capacity
Rules (quiet hours, arrivals, pet policies, visitor access) are set by the owner and can differ significantly

Unlike many European campsites, private RV parks in the US may not focus on scenic settings. Convenience, road access, and utility hookups are often the priority.

Key US-Specific Terms Explained

Full hookups: Electric power, fresh water, and a sewer connection at your site (availability varies by site and park).
Dump station: A designated place to empty the RV’s toilet and wastewater tanks.
Pull-through site: A site you drive straight into and out of, useful for larger RVs or towing.
Back-in site: A site you reverse into, similar to many European pitches.
Boondocking: Camping without hookups, often on public land or designated areas; rules, time limits, and fees vary by state and location, and it is not always free.

Planning Logistics for International Visitors

Distances and driving

Distances in the US are measured in miles, not kilometres. One mile equals approximately 1.6 km. RV travel days are often longer than expected due to road conditions, speed limits, and vehicle size, so plan fewer miles per day and rely on pre-booked RV parks.

Power and adapters

US RVs use 110–120V electricity. RV hookups are typically 30-amp (TT-30 plug) or 50-amp (14-50 plug). European campsite adapters are not compatible, so you must choose parks with appropriate US RV hookups that match your rental vehicle.

Arrival and check-in rules

Most RV parks require arrival during posted office hours, often before early evening. Late arrivals may be allowed at some parks by prior arrangement, but this must be confirmed in advance, as policies vary.

Using RV Parks Near Major Cities

KOA and private RV parks are often located outside city centres. For example, travellers collecting an RV near Los Angeles or Denver typically stay in suburban or highway-access parks, then use public transport, rideshare services, or a tow car (where permitted) to reach urban areas.

Many US cities have restrictions on large vehicles, overnight street parking, or towing, so checking local access rules in advance is essential. This differs from Europe, where campsites may be closer to town centres or connected by walking paths.

Booking and Timing Tips

Reserve popular parks well in advance during summer, weekends, and US national holidays.
Always check maximum vehicle length and height when renting a larger RV.
Confirm whether sewer dumping is available at your individual site or only at a shared station.

General trip planning questions, including campground rules and regional differences, are covered in the planning FAQs.

Final Tips

KOA parks offer relative consistency and simplicity, while private RV parks offer variety and local character. Many travellers use a mix of both to balance comfort and flexibility.

When you are ready to plan your route, you can check RV availability and pickup options through USARVRentals.com.