**The Least RV-Friendly Cities and States in the USA**
I’ve been hitting the road in RVs for over 30 years, and let me tell you—I’ve seen it all. Some places roll out the red carpet for RV folks, but others? Not so much.
There are cities and states that make RV travel more of a headache than an adventure. So let’s get into the least RV-friendly spots in the USA, and maybe toss around some ideas for dealing with them.
Understanding the Challenges for RV Travelers
RV travel gives you freedom, no doubt about it. But it comes with a unique set of headaches too.
Some places just aren’t set up for us. You run into things like tight parking, weird local laws, and a lack of basics that can turn your dream trip into a bit of a slog.
Parking Restrictions
Parking rules are probably the top issue for RVers. Lots of cities have strict ordinances on where or how long you can park.
Urban areas are usually the worst, since space is already tight. Some cities only let you park in certain far-flung areas, making it tough to get to the good stuff.
Lack of Amenities
Another big headache? Not enough RV-specific amenities. I’m talking about dump stations, potable water, and campgrounds that fit bigger rigs.
In some states, just finding a decent place to park overnight can feel impossible—especially when everyone’s traveling at once.
The Least RV-Friendly Cities
After years on the road and plenty of research, I’ve run into a few cities that are just plain tough for RVers. These places combine strict rules, few amenities, and other stuff that makes them a pain for us.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is gorgeous, but wow, it’s a nightmare for RVs. The streets are narrow and hilly, and driving a big rig there just isn’t fun.
Parking is scarce and pricey, and don’t expect to crash overnight—most places won’t let you.
New York City, New York
NYC is legendary, but good luck bringing your RV. The crowds and traffic alone make it stressful.
Finding parking, especially overnight? Pretty much a lost cause thanks to strict rules and sky-high demand.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is packed with things to do, but it’s not exactly RV-friendly. The parking restrictions are some of the toughest around.
Campgrounds or RV parks near downtown? Hard to find, which means staying close is tricky and rarely cheap.
The Least RV-Friendly States
It’s not just cities—whole states can be tough on RV travelers. Some places just have too many rules and not enough infrastructure.
New Jersey
New Jersey is notorious for strict RV rules and not many amenities. Laws limit where you can park, and there aren’t a lot of campgrounds for bigger rigs.
The traffic and population density don’t help either. Driving through can get stressful fast.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts can be rough for RVers too. The roads are narrow, the towns are old, and big vehicles just weren’t part of the plan back when they built everything.
Parking rules are everywhere, and good campgrounds are few—especially if you’re chasing the tourist hotspots.
Hawaii
Hawaii sounds dreamy, but forget about RVing there. The islands aren’t connected by bridges, so you can’t just drive from one to another.
Campgrounds and RV parks are rare, and shipping your RV over? It’s wildly expensive.
Tips for Navigating Less RV-Friendly Areas
Even in the toughest spots, you can still make the most of your trip if you plan ahead. Here are a few ideas that have worked for me:
- Plan Ahead: Always check parking options and local rules before you go. Saves a lot of headaches.
- Consider Alternative Accommodations: Sometimes, it’s easier to grab a hotel or vacation rental for a night or two.
- Travel Off-Peak: If you can, visit during less busy times. You’ll have better luck with parking and crowds.
- Use Public Transportation: Park outside the city and take the bus or train in. It’s often less stressful.
- Stay Informed: Local laws change all the time, so keep an eye out for updates.
Conclusion
RV travel comes with its fair share of challenges, especially in certain parts of the USA. Still, with a bit of preparation and some flexibility, you can have a trip that’s both rewarding and memorable.
If you know which cities and states aren’t so RV-friendly, you can plan ahead and avoid a lot of headaches. Want more ideas and tips? Take a look at our guide to the least RV-friendly cities and states in the USA.
