Tips for Setting Up an RV at a Campsite

Pulling into an RV campsite can feel like the finish line after a long drive. You finally made it. Trees are swaying, birds are chirping, and your legs are begging to stretch out. But before you kick off your shoes and reach for a snack, there is a bit of setup to take care of.

Whether this is your first trip or your tenth summer in a row, getting your RV ready the right way makes everything easier. Think of it like setting the stage before the show—get it right, and the rest of your stay will be smooth sailing.

Choose Your Spot Carefully

Before you turn the key and pull in, take a walk around the site if you can. Some campers call this the “scout and stare” move. It helps you figure out the best place to park.

Look for:

• A flat area without big dips or rocks
  
  
• Space for your slide-outs or awning
  
  
• Trees that might scrape your roof or block your solar panels
  
  
• Water puddles or soft ground after rain
  
  

Once you find a good spot, take your time backing in. Ask someone to stand outside and help guide you. Two sets of eyes are better than one when trees and picnic tables are nearby.

Get Your RV Level

Sleeping on a slant is not fun. Cooking on one is even worse. That is why leveling your RV is one of the first things you should do.

You can use leveling blocks, wooden planks, or built-in jacks. Most people carry a small bubble level. Place it on your floor or countertop to check.

Level side to side first. Then adjust front to back. Once you are even, put wheel chocks behind your tires to keep your RV from moving. Even if it feels steady, chocks add peace of mind.

Plug into Power

Most RV campsites have an electric hookup station. Before you plug in, double-check the breaker. It should be turned off. Then connect your power cord. Once it is in place, flip the breaker back on.

You can now test your lights or plug in a phone charger to make sure power is flowing. If something is not working, check your breakers inside the RV before panicking. Sometimes it is just a switch that needs flipping.

Connect to Water Safely

Now it is time to hook up your fresh water. This is how you get running water for your sink, shower, and toilet.

• First, attach your water hose to the spigot.
  
  
• Some campers like to use a pressure regulator to protect their plumbing.
  
  
• Run the water for a few seconds before hooking it up to the RV. That clears out any dirt or bugs.
  
  
• Tighten the hose onto your RV’s intake and you are good to go.
  
  

Check for drips. Nobody likes a soggy welcome mat.

Set Up the Sewer Hose Last

Let us be honest. This part is not fun, but it is necessary.

Your sewer hookup lets you drain both the black tank (from the toilet) and the gray tank (from the sink and shower). Always wear gloves when handling the hose.

Here is the order:

1. Attach the hose securely to your RV’s outlet.
   
   
2. Connect the other end to the campsite’s sewer hookup.
   
   
3. Use a support ramp to help it drain better.
   
   
4. Keep your black tank valve closed until it is full. Then dump it all at once.
   
   
5. Leave the gray tank closed too, and dump it after the black to help flush the hose.
   
   

Rinse everything off when you are done and store it away neatly. You will thank yourself later.

Slide-Outs and Awnings

Once your RV is in place and hooked up, you can open your slide-outs. Make sure there is nothing in the way—bushes, posts, or other campers’ gear.

Then roll out your awning if the weather looks calm. A breeze might be nice, but strong winds and rain can tear that thing off faster than you think. Always roll it back in before you leave the site or go to bed.

Make the Campsite Feel Like Home

Now for the fun part. Setting up outside is where your campsite becomes your little home away from home.

• Lay down a rug by the steps
  
  
• Set up chairs, a table, or a hammock
  
  
• Hang string lights or put out a solar lantern
  
  
• Set up a small campfire ring if allowed
  
  

You are not just camping. You are building memories—whether that is with kids roasting marshmallows or simply sitting with a cup of coffee watching the sunrise.

Be a Friendly Neighbor

Campgrounds are shared spaces. That means being respectful goes a long way.

Keep noise down, especially at night. Pick up after yourself and your pets. If your music can be heard three campsites away, it is probably too loud.

A friendly wave or a quick hello can make someone’s day. You never know—your next favorite camping buddy might be parked right next to you.

Consider Seasonal Setups

If you like staying in one place for longer stretches, seasonal RV sites might be a great fit. They let you park your RV for weeks or even months at a time, making setup even easier since you only do it once.

You can learn more about seasonal RV sites here, or browse short-term RV site rentals here if you are just planning a weekend stay.

No matter your style, Willowemoc Campgrounds at 30 Willowemoc Rd, Livingston Manor, NY 12758, offers a peaceful place to rest, relax, and reconnect with nature.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your RV might seem like a chore at first, but with a little practice, it becomes part of the fun. It is your chance to slow down, settle in, and start enjoying what you came here for.

Take your time. Do not rush. The mountains are not going anywhere. Neither are the s'mores.

Ready to set up at your own RV campsite?
Book your stay at Willowemoc Campgrounds today and make your next camping trip one to remember.

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