Although we love exploring sights and trails and waterways and beaches and museums (for starters) when we’re RVing, there is something special, too, about staying on site and simply putting your feet up or exploring the immediate area. Many private campgrounds and RV resorts have high quality amenities and activities, such as pools, arcades, fishing ponds, boating rentals, and more. You can find plenty to do at a campground, even without accessing the on-site amenities. Take the time to relax or entertain with neighbors. A dedicated outdoor space at the campsite provides the perfect spot in which to do this.
Back or Side Patio
A back or side patio, also sometimes known as a veranda, can be built into the RV’s design. Some RVs have rear deck slide extensions to make the veranda footprint even larger.
Toy haulers have a large garage space with a single large door on the back, which can be converted into a patio when the door is kept level (instead of being used as a ramp) and secured with cables tying back to the RV. Rails and stairs are then attached to finish it off. One thing to note is that toy hauler garages are large spaces and often open into the rest of the interior of the RV. If you plan to air condition your living space, make it easier on the air conditioning system and add a barrier of some kind, such as a heavy curtain. Some fifth wheels are also designed with a dedicated garage space for holding all the “toys.” The downside is that if bad weather starts to roll in or you want to be away from the campsite all day, garage door patios need to be closed up to prevent the elements, like rain, from infiltrating the RV’s interior as well as for security.
You can choose to add a back or side patio with a portable system, which can be set up, removed, and stored as needed. The first setup takes the longest. There are various sizes available and a lot of different manufacturers. Your RV manufacturer may be able to make a recommendation. Be cautious when designing a portable system so that you can still access any storage areas.
While some RVs are designed with retractable rear awnings, you may need to invest in adding one if you prefer the location to be shaded. Add a BBQ and a Bluetooth speaker, if they aren’t already built into the space, and you are ready to relax.
Front Patio
The front of most RVs come equipped with an awning or two, providing ample shade as well as providing a cooling effect on the RV’s interior. Roll out an outdoor rug – secured with corner tie-downs so that it doesn’t get swept away on a windy day – and take out some comfortable chairs to make your very own outdoor living room in a snap.
To keep out bugs, you can choose to purchase soft sides that attach to the retractable awning to provide a partial or completely screened-in outdoor space. A lot of folks like to add party lights to their awning, offering a festive vibe as well as some softer mood lighting.
Separate Shelters
Particularly enticing for families, a separate tent or screened-in shelter can provide a refuge and an outlet for busy kids or moody teenagers. Whether the shelter is used as a play room, a reading room, or a game room, a separate space gives you options and flexibility as well as more elbow room. It may just end up being your favorite.
Outdoor Kitchens
A trend that doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon is that of a built-in outdoor kitchen. And they are getting more sophisticated. It brings the term “dining out” to a whole new level. Slide-out counters and appliances, running water, and gas ranges are some of the features you may find in a built-in outdoor kitchen. Alternatively, you can set up an outdoor kitchen area with a portable sink and counter unit as well as various cooking appliances. You’ll need to haul everything in and out of storage to do this, but having a second area in which to cook meals, set out snacks, or even clean up after meals is a big bonus.
