Camping Memberships
Camping memberships are programs that provide members access to a network of campgrounds and associated perks. Popular programs include Thousand Trails, KOA Value Kard Rewards, Passport America, Harvest Hosts, Good Sam, Roadtrippers and Escapees RV Club, each catering to different campers. Let’s take a look at what each one has to offer.
Key Benefits
Cost Savings Memberships often offer significant discounts on nightly camping fees, while others offer unlimited camping at their network locations for an annual fee.
Some memberships provide access to an extensive network of campgrounds across the country, making it easier to plan trips without worrying about availability or quality.
Joining a camping membership often means becoming part of a community of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts hosting events and forums where members can connect.
Drawbacks
Some memberships require a substantial initial investment.
Discounted rates often come with restrictions, such as blackout dates, length-of-stay limits, or specific campground participation.
If you’re not a frequent camper or tend to explore off-the-grid locations, a membership may not offer enough value to justify the cost.
Popular membership campgrounds may become crowded during peak seasons, reducing the sense of tranquility many campers seek.
Tips for Choosing the Right Membership
Research membership options to compare programs to find one that matches your needs and budget.
Read the fine print and pay attention to restrictions, cancellation policies, and additional fees.
Talk to fellow campers or read online reviews to learn from others’ experiences.
Camping memberships can be a fantastic way to save money and enhance your camping adventures, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts is a unique camping membership that connects RVers with a network of non-traditional camping locations, including wineries, breweries, farms, museums, and other small businesses. Members can park overnight at these scenic and culturally rich locations, often for free, with the expectation of supporting the host business through a purchase or donation.
Key Benefits
Harvest Hosts offers access to over 4,000 unique overnight spots across North America providing one-of-a-kind experiences, such as camping in vineyards or beside a historic landmark.
The annual fee is reasonable compared to traditional campground memberships with an optional add-on for access to golf courses for an additional fee.
Staying at Harvest Hosts allows members to engage with and support local businesses. Whether purchasing wine, produce, or handmade crafts, your stay benefits the host.
Keep in Mind
Harvest Hosts is geared toward RVers who can operate without hookups (electric, water or sewer). This means tents, pop-up trailers, and smaller vehicles without these systems are not eligible.
The majority of Harvest Hosts locations only allow one-night stays, so it’s best for travelers who are constantly on the move.
While the stay is technically free, it’s encouraged and often expected to support the host by purchasing something during your visit.
Reservations are required, and travelers must contact hosts in advance to confirm availability. Same-day requests may not always be accommodated.
Good Sam Club
Good Sam Club is known as one of the largest and most recognized camping organizations, providing members with perks ranging from campground discounts to roadside assistance and travel-related savings.
Key Benefits
Members receive 10% off nightly rates at over 2,000 affiliated campgrounds.
Save up to 5 cents per gallon at select Pilot Flying J locations in the U.S. and up to 8 cents per liter at Canadian Flying J stations. Every penny counts when traveling.
Members enjoy discounts of up to 10% on merchandise at Camping World, Gander RV & Outdoors, and Overton’s, making it a valuable membership for purchasing camping gear and supplies.
Good Sam offers optional add-on roadside assistance plans, which include towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, and other emergency services tailored to RVers.
Members have access to discounted extended stay insurance for RVs and extended warranty programs to protect against unexpected repair costs.
Good Sam members gain access to exclusive trip-planning tools, including RV-friendly routes, campground directories, and travel guides to help plan their adventures.
Discounted rates are offered on RV insurance and financing services, making it easier to protect and fund your vehicle.
Keep in Mind
Campers who rely on free camping options, like boondocking, or who prefer off-the-grid experiences may not fully benefit from the program.
KOA Rewards
A KOA Rewards membership is designed for campers who frequently stay at KOA campgrounds. With over 500 locations across North America, KOA offers a range of camping experiences, from tent sites and RV hookups to deluxe cabins.
They offer three types of campgrounds. A KOA Journey is conveniently located near a highway for overnight stops, the KOA Holiday campground has upgraded amenities like pools, playgrounds, and activities for families, and the KOA Resort offers full-service destinations with deluxe accommodations, dining options, and extensive amenities.
Key Benefits
Members receive 10% off nightly rates at all KOA campgrounds.
Points are earned for every dollar spent on camping stays and certain purchases. These points can be redeemed for discounts on future stays.
KOA Rewards members get access to exclusive deals, such as discounts on long-term stays, early booking specials, and promotions during the camping season.
Every fall, KOA hosts a special weekend where members staying on Friday receive Saturday night free as a thank-you for their loyalty.
Many campgrounds offer perks for longer stays, such as discounted weekly or monthly rates, which can be combined with membership benefits.
Keep in Mind
This membership only applies to KOA campgrounds.
KOA campgrounds typically offer a more developed and structured camping experience, which may not appeal to those seeking remote or primitive camping.
Passport America
Passport America is one of the most affordable ways for RV travelers to save money on overnight stays. The program is simple, flexible, and ideal for RVers who enjoy exploring different destinations.
Key Benefits
Membership offers 50% off nightly rates at participating campgrounds.
Passport America partners with over 1,200 campgrounds, including RV parks, resorts, and family-run locations, providing plenty of options across North America.
The discount can be used unlimited times, making it perfect for RVers who frequently travel or take long road trips.
Passport America extends its discounts to campgrounds in Canada and Mexico.
Members have access to an app and physical campground directory, making it easy to find participating locations.
Keep in Mind
This membership could best suit travelers who can adjust plans to accommodate blackout dates and restrictions.
Full-time RVers or those who prefer high-end RV resorts with extensive amenities might find the program less beneficial.
Escapees RV Club
Escapees RV Club is a comprehensive membership program tailored to meet the needs of RV enthusiasts and full-time travelers. It offers a wide range of benefits, including campground discounts, mail-forwarding services, community events, and educational resources.
Key Benefits
Escapees offers discounts of 15-50% off at over 800 participating RV parks and campgrounds.
Escapees owns several member-only RV parks and co-op parks known as SKP parks. These parks provide affordable long-term rates for members.
One of the standout benefits is the Mail Forwarding Service, which allows members to receive mail at a secure address in Texas, Florida, or South Dakota. This is especially valuable for RVers who need a permanent mailing address.
Members are offered extensive educational resources, including webinars, workshops, and boot camps for new RVers on boondocking, RV maintenance, and managing finances on the road.
Members can participate in organized events like annual rallies, hangouts, and Xscapers (a subgroup for working-age RVers) to connect with like-minded travelers.
Escapees provides legal resources and advocacy for RVers, such as domicile assistance and lobbying for RV-friendly legislation.
Members also gain access to discounts on RV insurance, roadside assistance, propane, and more.
Keep in Mind
Occasional or weekend campers may find less value in the program unless they frequently use RV parks in the discount network.
Escapees is among the most comprehensive and supportive memberships available for full-time RVers or those deeply involved in the RV lifestyle.
Roadtrippers
Roadtrippers is ideal for anyone planning an extensive or multi-stop journey. Its unlimited waypoints and offline access make it particularly valuable for RV owners, van lifers, and long-distance road trippers.
Key Benefits
Roadtrippers allows for unlimited stops, perfect for planning longer, more complex routes.
For group adventures, you can share and edit trip itineraries with friends and family in real time.
Members receive deals and discounts on lodging, tours, and attractions at select destinations.
Access your trip plans without internet connectivity, ideal for exploring remote areas.
Get detailed information about distances, estimated travel times, and fuel costs, helping you budget and manage your trip more effectively.
Keep in Mind
The free version limits the number of waypoints on a trip, but there are several plans available to suit your individual needs.
I have the premium plan and absolutely love it!
Happy Camping!!