By HitchPath Team —
"RV site included" is one of the most appealing phrases in any workamping job listing. For full-time RVers, the campsite is usually the single largest ongoing expense — and eliminating it can significantly change the financial math of life on the road.
But "RV site included" is not a standardized term. What it actually means varies considerably depending on the employer, the program type, and the specific campground. This guide explains what to look for, what to verify before accepting, and what questions to ask before you commit.
Browse jobs with RV sites included →
In practice, "RV site included" appears in job listings in several different ways:
None of these is better or worse by definition — but each has very different implications for your daily living situation. The phrase "RV site included" tells you only that some kind of campsite arrangement exists. It does not define what that arrangement looks like.
For paid positions at private campgrounds, KOA franchises, and state parks, a site is commonly included as part of the total compensation package alongside your wage. Private employers — especially KOA and destination resorts — typically provide a full-hookup site because their campgrounds are built for it.
What to look for: Does the listing specify hookup type? Is the site free, or is it at a discounted rate? Is the site included for the full season, or just while you are actively scheduled?
For volunteer programs on public federal lands, the campsite is the primary form of compensation — there is no wage. Whether hookups are available depends entirely on the campground's infrastructure. A developed Army Corps lake campground may have electric, water, and sewer at the host site. A remote BLM dispersed site may have nothing.
Always read the specific listing carefully and contact the program coordinator to confirm site amenities before accepting a volunteer placement.
Understanding hookup terminology matters before you accept any position:
Full hookups — Electric, water, and sewer are all available at the site. You can run air conditioning, fill your fresh tank at will, and use your sink without worrying about gray or black tank capacity. The most comfortable long-term arrangement for most RVers.
Partial hookups (electric + water) — Common at state park host sites and many federal campgrounds. You will need to dump your tanks at the campground dump station periodically.
Electric only (30-amp or 50-amp) — You can run essential appliances but must manage water usage and tank capacity on your own.
Dry camping (no hookups) — No utilities provided. You rely on your RV's batteries, solar or generator, and onboard fresh/gray/black water capacity. Common at remote BLM and Forest Service placements.
Before accepting any position, confirm:
Beyond hookup type, here is what to confirm before you commit to any position that lists an RV site as part of the deal:
Site size and pull-through vs back-in: Large fifth wheels or motorhomes need adequate turning radius and slide clearance. Ask for the site dimensions if you have a rig over 35 feet.
Site assignment: Is the host site a fixed, dedicated spot, or are you sharing the campground's general inventory? Dedicated host sites are the norm, but worth confirming.
On-site electricity cost: Some employers provide the site but charge you for electricity consumption. This is common at private parks. Ask explicitly if electric is included.
Pets: Most programs allow pets but may have restrictions on number, size, or breed. Confirm before you arrive.
Guest policy: Can your adult children or friends stay at your site? What are the limits? Some programs restrict guests at the host site.
Early departure policy: What happens if a family emergency requires you to leave mid-season? Know the expectations before you commit.
Browse private RV park jobs with site included →
"RV site included" positions always come with an obligation — the question is what that obligation looks like.
For paid positions: You are an employee. Your hours are scheduled by your employer. Expect a consistent weekly schedule, typically 20–40 hours per week.
For volunteer host positions: Your weekly service commitment is specified in the listing. Common minimums are 24–32 hours per week. In exchange, you have the rest of your time free.
Minimum stay commitment: Many federal volunteer programs require a minimum stay of 4–8 weeks. Some require a full season commitment (May through October). Read this carefully — leaving early can affect your eligibility for future placements.
A free RV site does not automatically mean free utilities. Depending on the employer and program:
Some federal volunteer programs reimburse specific costs (propane is the most common) — but only if the listing specifies it. Do not assume reimbursements exist unless the program documentation or your contact confirms them explicitly.
Both exist. Most volunteer positions provide a fully free site. Some paid positions include a free site; others offer a heavily discounted rate (e.g., $1–$5 per day vs. the standard rate). The listing should specify — if it is not clear, ask before accepting.
This is a real concern. Always confirm site dimensions and access road conditions before committing. Some remote campgrounds have narrow entrance roads, tight turns, or low-clearance bridges that restrict large rigs.
Generally yes, as long as it does not conflict with your host duties or scheduling. Remote work via laptop is common among volunteer hosts. Some positions at federal campgrounds may have restrictions — check the specific program terms.
Paid positions do. Volunteer host positions are service experience, which can be listed on a résumé but are not formal employment. If you are building toward a career in outdoor recreation, federal volunteer service can be a meaningful credential.
Policies vary. For paid positions, sick leave and accommodation policies depend on the employer. For volunteer programs, contact your coordinator — most agencies are flexible for genuine health situations but expect communication.