Forum Discussion

Rqtpis2's avatar
Rqtpis2
Explorer
Apr 19, 2020

Size ristrictions at state/federal parks

I am in the process of looking to purchase a Class A motor home for retirement in a few years.I know there are size restrictions for state parks/ federal parks. For instance can I buy a 40' motor home and tow my Prius and disconnect Prius before i go to state parks and still be in the guide lines for a 40' site.What kind of size issues will I run into? Or do state parks offer additional parking for your tow vehicles? I have not yet determined what size motor home i will be purchasing.I will be towing a Toyota Prius with me and will be living in Motor home full time. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks
  • As others said, it really is something that must be considered on a case-by-case basis. There's no single magic cutoff value where suddenly site are no longer available, generally speaking, but rather the largeer the rig the fewer sites it will fit in, until possibly at some point it's impossible to fit in any site at a particular campground. Even if there are some sites that would fit you, if they all happen to be occupied or reserved it's no help, even if many other sites you can't use are free.

    Here in Vermont, a 40 foot motorhome would be quite restrictive for the state campgrounds, many of which were built by the CCC and have not been vastly changed since then. Even my 32' motorhome can require a little flexability as to when and/or where to go camping. In other states and areas it's less frequently a big concern.

    It's also worth noting that sometimes--certainly not always--the maximum lenghts stated online for particular sites are extraordinarily conservative and larger rigs can easily fit (and navigate the roads to get to the site). Other times, they are precise and accurate. It can be helpful to call and speak to a ranger or someone familiar with the actual campground. Reservation clerks often don't have detailed local knowledge, particularly if the reservation system is statewide or national.
  • Rqtpis,

    First, know the over all length of your rig as it travels.

    You pretty much will have to consider this on a single park basis. Many places have pull-though slips that could accommodate your whole rig as it travels. Most do not.

    As I recall, a Prius cannot be towed 4-down, so you need room for it and the dolly.

    Those that can accommodate a 40foot coach (In my experience) can also park a towed and dolly. But, you will have to confirm that before you give them money.

    Matt
  • Size is normally based on the living units length. The toad does not count.
    40 foot is a big rig! Many have numerous slides which can be come issue in many government campgrounds and some commercial.
    You may want to look at shorter rig with the slides.
  • jdc1's avatar
    jdc1
    Explorer II
    Some parks in California have a 22' restriction due to the root system of the ancient trees.
  • Forty feet is pushing it very hard. Here are California’s and the National Park’s limits. Most states have a chart. Many NPs you’d be at the limit but forget most boondocking possibilities at that length...and dirt roads. For me a 40 footer would be toooo limiting.

    https://www.parks.ca.gov/RVlength

    https://outdoorsrvmfg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/National-Park-Trailer-Length-Chart.pdf