RV Trip Planning: How to Choose the Perfect Site at a Resort

Selecting the right RV site can mean the difference between a trip that’s simply good and one that’s truly memorable. While any space with a hookup might seem fine at first glance, details like location, size, shade, and nearby amenities can shape your comfort, convenience, and overall experience. Planning ahead and knowing what to look for ensures that your site becomes part of the adventure rather than just a parking spot.

Understanding Your Needs Before Booking

Every RV traveller has different priorities. Some prefer to be in the heart of the action, while others want a quiet corner away from foot traffic. Before even looking at resort maps, think about your specific needs.

Are you travelling with pets who need easy access to walking areas? Do you have young children who would benefit from being near the playground or pool? Will you be cooking outdoors and therefore want proximity to communal kitchens or grills? Defining these factors early helps narrow your search.

Site Size and RV Compatibility

Not all RV sites are created equal. Larger rigs may require pull-through spaces, which make arrival and departure much easier. Smaller RVs and camper vans might fit comfortably in back-in sites, often closer to scenic spots.

When booking, always confirm the exact dimensions of the site and check whether there’s adequate clearance for slide-outs, awnings, and outdoor furniture. Some travellers have arrived only to find their site is just a few feet too short, leading to awkward setups or the need for last-minute changes.

Location Within the Resort

The site’s location can significantly affect your stay. Being near the resort entrance may make coming and going simple, but it can also result in increased vehicle traffic. Sites near activity hubs like pools, playgrounds, or clubhouses keep you close to the action but may be noisier.

Those looking for peace might gravitate toward waterfront areas, wooded sections, or end-of-row spots. A resort map can help you visualise options and decide which trade-offs you’re willing to make between convenience and quiet.

Hookup Types and Utility Placement

Modern RV resorts typically offer three main types of hookups:

  • Full hookups: Water, electricity, and sewer connections.
  • Partial hookups: Usually water and electricity only.
  • No hookups: For those who prefer a more rustic stay or rely on self-contained systems.

Beyond the type of hookup, placement matters. Knowing whether the connections are on the driver’s side or passenger side of the site can save headaches during setup. Double-check amperage to ensure compatibility with your RV’s electrical needs.

Shade, Sun, and Seasonal Considerations

The right mix of shade and sun can make a big difference in comfort. In the heat of summer, a shaded site can keep your RV cooler and reduce the need for constant air conditioning. In cooler months, sunnier spots may help warm your space naturally.

Consider how the site’s orientation will affect sunrise and sunset views. If you enjoy mornings outdoors, a site that catches the first light can make for a beautiful start to your day. Those who value late-afternoon relaxation may prefer a shaded evening setting.

Proximity to Amenities

While some guests want to be within steps of every amenity, others prefer a short walk for added privacy. Being close to restrooms and showers is convenient if your RV’s bathroom is small or shared by many people. Families might appreciate sites near the playground, while anglers could look for spots adjacent to the lake or dock.

At Lake LaCroix RV Resort, for example, you’ll find sites near the waterfront for easy kayak access, as well as those closer to the pavilion for quick trips to events and gatherings.

Privacy and Spacing

Not all sites have the same buffer between neighbours. Resorts with spacious layouts feel less crowded and allow for more outdoor living space. If you value privacy, ask about the distance between sites, any natural screening like hedges or trees, and whether certain areas are more open or enclosed.

A little extra space can make it easier to set up chairs, outdoor games, or a dining table without feeling cramped.

Noise Levels and Timing

Think about how the site’s location might influence noise at different times of day. Sites near the pool may be lively during afternoons, while those near event spaces could have more activity in the evenings.

If you’re travelling during a holiday weekend or special event, such as Lake LaCroix’s Labor Day celebration, expect higher energy across the resort. Those who want to be part of the festivities might choose a central site, while those preferring a quieter retreat can book on the outskirts.

Accessibility and Mobility

For guests with limited mobility, site selection should prioritise smooth surfaces, minimal steps, and easy access to key amenities. Wide driveways and level ground make parking and setup more straightforward.

If you’re travelling with older family members or small children, proximity to bathrooms, laundry facilities, and gathering areas can prevent long walks in the heat or cold.

Group Site Considerations

If you’re travelling with friends or extended family, ask whether the resort offers group site arrangements. These often cluster multiple sites together, sharing access to a pavilion, fire pit, or open lawn.

Booking early is crucial for groups, as these spaces tend to fill quickly. Coordinating arrival times also ensures everyone sets up together, creating a centralised “camp hub” for meals and activities.

Special Views and Premium Spots

Some resorts offer premium sites with lake views, direct beach access, or extra-large patios. These can come at a higher cost but may be worth it for milestone trips or special occasions.

A site with a view can make simple moments, like morning coffee or an evening drink, feel extraordinary. If you’re celebrating an anniversary, hosting a reunion, or marking another milestone, a prime spot adds a layer of significance.

How to Research Before Booking

Resort websites often include maps, but guest photos and reviews can give you a more realistic picture of each area. Pay attention to mentions of site size, ease of parking, and proximity to amenities.

If you’re unsure, calling the resort directly can be invaluable. Staff can recommend sites based on your preferences, whether that’s quiet mornings, easy access to activities, or proximity to the water.

Making the Most of Your Chosen Site

Once you’ve selected your site, a few small touches can make it feel even more comfortable. Outdoor rugs define your space, string lights add warmth in the evenings, and a well-placed chair or hammock invites you to slow down and enjoy the setting.

Setting up early in the day allows you to adjust your RV’s position for the best view, sun exposure, or shade. Take a moment to walk the area; you might spot the perfect spot for a picnic table or find a better way to orient your awning.

Lake LaCroix’s Range of Site Options

At Lake LaCroix RV Resort, site selection is part of the fun. Guests can choose from waterfront spots for instant lake access, shaded corners for mid-summer comfort, or central sites that keep you close to events and communal areas. Full hookups, level pads, and spacious layouts make setup simple, while the variety ensures that whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or part of a large group, there’s a site that fits your style.

With the resort’s mix of activity zones and quiet areas, you can tailor your stay, immersing yourself in the social atmosphere or retreating to a more peaceful setting at day’s end.

Finally: Choosing with Intention

Selecting the perfect RV site is less about luck and more about knowing what matters most to you. By considering size, location, shade, amenities, and noise levels, you can match your site to your travel style.

The right choice can turn your RV’s front step into a place where the day begins with a perfect sunrise, afternoons are spent comfortably, and evenings end with a view worth remembering. When your site works in harmony with your plans, the entire trip feels smoother, more comfortable, and more memorable.