A guide for cold-weather camping

Do you want to cold-weather camp? It would be wonderful if your RV could be parked near a ski slope or other great spot for winter RV camping.

Our goal is for you to use your RV all winter long. This includes winterizing, storing, maintaining it and renting it out to other people in warmer areas.

Camping in cold conditions is defined as:

Cold weather camper is a person who stays in an RV when it is cold outside.  Therefore, camping above freezing presents a different set of problems and considerations than full-fledged winter camping.  Your pipes will freeze if the temperature drops below 32°F. This will cause your heating bills to increase and leave your family disappointed.

Another factor to consider when winter camping with an RV is wind. Winter weather can bring cold winds, even when temperatures are above freezing. Because of the ease at which cold winds can penetrate RV windows and doors, it can be difficult to RV camp in winter.

Why go to a camp for cold weather?

You can enjoy some of the most beautiful sights in the country by cold-weather RVing.  You could live close to a ski slope, or near national parks that offer almost the entire area to you for a fraction of the cost of a condo. Or you could choose to live wherever you like, regardless of Mother Nature’s wishes.

This does not mean RVing in winter must be miserable. It is possible to camp in cold conditions at a place you love and return home to a warm camper.  Check your heater if you plan to RV camp in winter.  Although propane heaters in RVs aren’t much different since their introduction, they remain one of the most difficult appliances.

It’s almost certain that your RV heater will fail, and it will be the coldest night in the year. This is not unlike a 60-degree week. We are well into the weekend. You’re also hundreds of miles away from the nearest town.  Winter camping can be a nightmare. Make sure your heater is inspected and maintained annually by a professional.

Camping: How can you prevent your pipes freezing

Winter camping is all about keeping water flowing.  To prevent your RV pipes from freezing, you should follow these steps:  A heated hose can be used to maintain the city’s water supply.

If you don’t have a hot water source, your RV’s freshwater tank can be used as an alternative to a heated water hose or city water.  It will keep your freshwater tank frozen if it is kept warm. The downside to this is that you will need to refill your freshwater tank every now and again.  It’s generally not a good idea for black and gray tanks to be left open during cold weather camping. These fluids can freeze in the sewage hose.

Do not dump your tanks until they are almost full. This will allow your camper’s internal temperature to keep fluids from freezing.  To prevent black/gray tanks freezing, pour a little RV antifreeze down the toilet and sink drains. After draining the tanks, add more antifreeze.  Wrap low-temperature heat tape around external hoses during winter months to keep them frozen.

If you are in a rush, you can let your water drip, but this will cause water waste. This is because moving water freezes slower than stationary water. Boondocking is a method that drains your freshwater tank, and then fills your grey water tank within a single night.

Tips to Stay Safe While Camping in Cold

Winter camping requires extra precautions. Be aware of slippery conditions, especially when camping on black ice. Winter RVs are especially dangerous due to the ice. Keep an emergency kit for your RV in case you are stranded along the road. Keep extra water, food and blankets in your vehicle in case you get frostbite.