You’ve arrived. After hours on the road, you're finally at your site. But before you throw it in park and start levelling, take a breath—because a few minutes of inspection now can save you hours of frustration later.
Here’s your essential pre-unhook checklist:
🔍 1. Walk the Site First
Before you even pull in, hop out and walk it. Look for low-hanging branches, hidden stumps, dips in the ground, or anything that might complicate setup. It’s easier to move your wheels than your whole rig once you're committed.
📏 2. Check the Slope
Even “level” sites can lie. Bring out your level or just stand and eyeball it. Too much slope front-to-back or side-to-side can make levelling a nightmare—and sleeping uncomfortable.
🔌 3. Locate Hookups
Power, water, and sewer should be within reach of your connections. Make sure none of them are on the wrong side of your RV—or further than your cables and hoses can stretch.
🌳 4. Survey Shade and Sun
This matters more than you think. In hot weather, shade can make a big difference in comfort. In cooler temps, a sunny spot might be a blessing.
🚫 5. Look for Deal-Breakers
Is there a wasp nest nearby? Are you too close to a noisy generator or the dump station? Any signs of previous flooding or mud? Better to notice now than once you’re fully set up.
🔄 6. Double-Check Your Exit Plan
Especially for back-in sites, be sure you have a clear path out when it’s time to leave. Don’t wedge yourself into a corner you’ll regret.
🚐 Settle in Smarter
A few careful minutes up front can lead to a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable stay. Want to preview sites before you even arrive? Use Campground Views to get a virtual walkthrough of campgrounds so you know exactly what you're getting into.
What’s the first thing you check at a site? Share your tips in the comments!