RV Memberships Are Changing – Are They Still Worth It? As the weather warms up and camping season approaches, it’s important to stay informed about the latest RV membership updates. It’s time to get our RVs ready for the road, but with the changing season comes a shift in the RV landscape, especially with membership programs and campground costs. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out, it’s essential to stay on top of these changes so you can make the best decisions for your RV adventures. Today we will cover some essential RV membership updates that every RV traveler should know.

Camping Season is Almost Here!

For those of you who’ve been waiting for camping season, the time has nearly arrived. RV parks, especially those in warmer southern regions, are beginning to open. However, if you’re planning to visit northern destinations, such as Maine or Massachusetts, keep in mind that some parks won’t open until May. If you’ve been itching to get your RV ready for the season, now’s the perfect time to start preparing. Whether you’re uncovering your RV, checking tires, or doing some de-winterizing, it’s time to get those pre-trip tasks done.

If you’re further up north, it might still be a little too early to take the plunge. We just had a drive where the temperature dropped from 72°F to 47°F in just one day, which definitely reminds us that spring weather takes time to settle in.

Changes in RV Memberships

Now, let’s dive into some RV membership updates. We’ve mentioned memberships in previous posts, but things have shifted quite a bit over the past year, and it’s important to be aware of the latest updates.

First off, Passport America. For those of you who got in early, you might remember they offered a lifetime membership option. Unfortunately, that’s no longer available. If you didn’t take advantage of it, that $299 lifetime deal is no longer offered. There’s a chance they might bring it back, but for now, it’s gone. However, you can still get an annual membership, so all is not lost!

Harvest Hosts is another popular option, and while they still offer memberships, the price has gone up. It’s not uncommon for prices to increase over time, and while they’re adding new perks, you need to decide if you’ll actually use them. The added benefits might justify the price hike for some, but for others, it might not be worth the extra cost. These are just a few examples of the changes you should consider when reviewing your RV membership updates.

Rising Campground Costs

One of the most noticeable trends in the RV world is the rising cost of staying at campgrounds. While some parks have always been on the higher end, the costs are now increasing across the board. Prices for campgrounds in popular tourist destinations, such as national parks and coastal areas, have risen sharply, with some charging upwards of $100 per night. This has made it more expensive for those who enjoy longer stays, and even those who frequent state parks may find themselves paying more than expected.

Additionally, many campgrounds have been shortening their open seasons, making it even harder to get a good deal. What used to be affordable options are now pushing their rates higher, leaving many RVers reconsidering their camping choices. For those relying on memberships like Good Sam’s for discounts, it’s worth noting that the number of parks participating in their program seems to be dwindling. These changes further emphasize the importance of staying updated on the latest RV membership updates to make informed decisions.

The Changing Face of Thousand Trails

Thousand Trails, one of the biggest RV membership programs, has also undergone major changes. For years, they offered lifetime memberships that allowed unlimited access to their parks. Now, however, these lifetime memberships are gone, and Thousand Trails has shifted to memberships that last only 2 to 4 years. Though still an option for frequent travelers, these new plans come with a hefty price tag, making it essential to evaluate whether it’s still worth the investment based on how often you’ll use it.

One significant change is that there are no longer any upgrade options for those with previous memberships. In the past, if you had a lifetime membership, you could upgrade to a better package as new options became available. But now, if you want to switch to a different package, you’ll need to cancel your current membership and start fresh. It’s a bit disappointing for those of us who have been with Thousand Trails for so long, but we understand that businesses evolve and change over time. This is another important RV membership update to keep in mind as you plan your future travels.

Are RV Memberships still worth it?

With all the changes happening in the RV membership world, you might be wondering if these memberships are still worth it. The answer depends on how often you plan to travel. If you’re a full-time traveler or someone who spends a lot of time on the road, memberships like Thousand Trails, Harvest Hosts, and others can still provide good value. However, if you don’t plan to travel as frequently, it may not be worth the higher price tags.

It’s important to weigh the cost of these memberships against how often you’ll use them. For example, a Thousand Trails membership might work out to $4-6 per night if you use it every day, which is a great deal. But if you only use it for a few weeks each year, the cost per night becomes much higher. You need to decide if that’s a price you’re willing to pay for the convenience and benefits.

Looking Ahead: The 2025 FindUsCamping Crawl

Now, for some exciting news—our 2025 FindUsCamping Crawl is just around the corner! We’ll be kicking off in Key West, Florida, and making our way up the east coast, with stops all along the way. The crawl will culminate in Fort Kent, Maine, at Mile Marker 1 on Route 1. We’ll be documenting the journey and making multiple stops, so if you’re interested in joining us for part of the trip, we’ll have more details coming soon.

We won’t be doing daily videos like last year, but we’ll still be capturing the adventure and sharing it with you. We’re looking forward to meeting more of you along the way, and we hope you’ll consider joining us for this amazing journey!

So, that’s it for today’s update. We hope this information helps you navigate the changing world of RV memberships, and we look forward to seeing you out on the road!

Safe travels y’all!