Photo by Mike Colyer

Photo by Mike Colyer

Winter camping with your trailer or motorhome can be a wonderful experience.  The cold weather and a little snow can heighten the senses of true camping.  The lack of other campers in the park can add to the changes you might otherwise not encounter.  The managing of the heat, power and water supply can provide a sense of accomplishment.

There are, however, other factors that may not be as enjoyable.  Being somewhat cold and uncomfortable during both camp set-up and the breaking up can be expected.  Some isolation may be felt as night falls, and there are no neighboring lights to illuminate the surroundings.

While there are certain items you will require to survive this camping trip, like plenty of propane, fuel, water, groceries, warm clothing, boots, gloves, and much more, there is one intangible that can make or break your enjoyment.  That is attitude!  The difference between an ordeal and an adventure is attitude.

This can be one of the most interesting camping trips of the year or it can be one of the worst.  It totally depends on you and your group’s attitude.  Yes, this can be a real adventure.  It also can extend your camping season and increase the utilization of your rig.

So, to do this takes a little planning.  Pick a location that you know is open and accessible.  Check that the weather during this event will be within the scope of your rig’s capability.  Make a list of those items you will need to be comfortable while you are there.  Remember, you may need items you would never think of taking on a normal camping outing, like a set of tire chains should the lack of traction warrant it.   If you have never done this before, you will probably really enjoy the planning.

So, are you up for the challenge?  Will you survive the ordeal or will you enjoy the adventure?  Life awaits.  Load your RV and head out.   Don’t forget the right attitude.  It can make all the difference.

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18 comments

  1. Tiger Run RV Resort in Breckenridge is awesome in the winter time!

  2. We have enjoyed taking our Class A out to go snow skiing for a month or so for the last few years. In Breckenridge Colorado, the temps were getting down to the minus 10 or so range, so we found it necessary to wrap the bottom of the RV in polyethylene plastic sheeting to help hold the heat. Also found that having a linger longer valve and an external propane tank made it a lot easier since you don't have to unhook everything to go fill it up. Couple of electric heaters for the lower bays to help make sure water lines don't freeze, and don't forget to bring a snow shovel!

  3. We can stay for a month for about what a weekend in a cabin would cost. Plus no pet fees for our three dogs. We have stayed in Williams Arizona in close to Zero temps very warm and cozy. We got the extra insulation when we customized our Grand Junction.

  4. We can stay for a month for about what a weekend in a cabin would cost. Plus no pet fees for our three dogs. We have stayed in Williams Arizona in close to Zero temps very warm and cozy. We got the extra insulation when we customized our Grand Junction.

  5. We can stay for a month for about what a weekend in a cabin would cost. Plus no pet fees for our three dogs. We have stayed in Williams Arizona in close to Zero temps very warm and cozy. We got the extra insulation when we customized our Grand Junction.

  6. Algonac State Park keeps one bath house open year round. Camp next to it and there's no need to use your water system.

  7. Stephen Pick

    Just back from a weekend trip in the motor coach. At just -7c as the low point it was fun but not challenging. Last year -32c did create issues. Luckily we park inside in a heated garage to thaw things out on our return.

  8. Colleen Connolly-Potts

    what campground is it? Would love to do winter camping in the rig BUT would also like a bath house!!

  9. Love winter camping in MI. Have a local state park that keeps a bath house open heated so I don't even need my water system and holding tanks.

  10. Steve Haralambidis

    Frozen plumbing isn't fun…

  11. AliceandGary Nelson

    Camping at Ski Areas works great. Great Restaurants. Swimming Pools and Hot tubs. Bars. Some even offer power.

  12. AliceandGary Nelson

    Camping at Ski Areas works great. Great Restaurants. Swimming Pools and Hot tubs. Bars. Some even offer power.

  13. Heading out January 2nd winter camping! Hopefully we'll get out about 9 or 10 weekends this winter!

  14. Love winter camping. Sitting in 5th wheel in Smokies, praying for snow while we are here! Totally prepared for winter fun!