How to Park a Small RV

Know Your RV’s Dimensions

Before you even consider parking, it’s important to understand your RV’s exact size. While small RVs are easier to manage than large rigs, you still need to know your vehicle’s:

• Length – Helps determine whether you’ll fit in a standard parking spot or need a longer space.
• Width – Critical for making turns and fitting between obstacles.
• Height – Avoid low-clearance dangers like tree branches, awnings, or parking garages.

Make a habit of writing these numbers down or keeping them on a sticky note on your dash. Knowing your dimensions helps prevent misjudgments that could lead to scrapes, bumps, or costly repairs.

Choose the Right Spot

Finding the ideal parking space for your RV is half the battle. Not all parking spots or campsites are created equal, especially for RVs.

Look for a location that offers:

• Level ground – Parking on uneven surfaces can make sleeping, cooking, and walking around uncomfortable, not to mention difficult when leveling.
• Adequate clearance – Ensure there’s enough room for your slide-outs (if any) and for walking around your RV.
• Easy entrance and exit – Avoid tight spots surrounded by trees, boulders, or other campers. Pull-through sites are especially helpful for beginners.

If you’re in a parking lot or residential area, avoid spaces where nearby vehicles might trap you in later. Always leave yourself an escape route.

Use Spotters and Mirrors

Your mirrors are essential when backing up or maneuvering in tight spaces, but sometimes mirrors alone aren’t enough. If you’re traveling with someone, ask them to act as a spotter. A second pair of eyes on the ground can help you avoid unseen hazards.

Here are a few best practices:

• Establish hand signals before starting, or use walkie-talkies for clear communication.
• Adjust your side mirrors to reduce blind spots and increase visibility.
• Go slow and check your mirrors constantly while moving.
• Use your backup camera if equipped—but don’t rely on it alone.

If you’re solo, step out of the RV and walk the area yourself before parking. It’s better to take two minutes to scout than to spend hours dealing with damage.

Backing In vs. Pull-Through Sites

There are two primary types of RV parking spots: back-in and pull-through. Each has its advantages, and knowing how to handle both is key.

Backing In

• This is more common in campgrounds.
• Start by pulling forward to set your angle.
• Use your mirrors and a spotter to help guide your direction.
• Begin turning the wheel in the opposite direction of where you want the rear of the RV to go.
• Go slow, checking mirrors and surroundings continuously.
• Don’t be afraid to pull forward and reset your approach if needed.

Pull-Through

• These are ideal for newer RVers.
• Simply drive straight in and straighten out.
• Make sure to stop far enough in so you’re not sticking out into the road.
• Even with pull-through spots, always check for level ground and clearance.

Practice Makes Perfect

If you’re new to RVing, don’t wait until you’re at a crowded campground to learn how to park. Practice in a large, empty parking lot, like a school or church lot after hours. Use traffic cones, buckets, or even chalk lines to simulate campsites or tight driveways.

4 Things to try during practice:

1) Parallel parking between cones to mimic street-side camping.

2) Back-in parking with a marked boundary.

3) Turning radius tests to understand your swing clearance.

4) Using mirrors only, then adding a spotter to understand the difference.

These dry runs help build muscle memory so that you’ll feel more confident in real-world situations.

Don’t Rush the Process

Rushing is the most common cause of RV parking mistakes. Whether it’s due to bad weather, impatient drivers behind you, or sheer frustration, parking in a hurry often leads to costly errors.

Instead:

• Take your time and go as slow as necessary.
• Pause frequently to reassess your angle or position.
• Ignore pressure from others in the area—it’s better to do it right than fast.
• Breathe deeply and focus on the steps you’ve practiced.

RVing should be fun, not stressful. Staying calm during parking helps prevent damage and keeps you and those around you safe.

Leveling and Final Adjustments

Once your small RV is in position, it’s time to make sure everything is level and secure. Even slight tilts can impact your comfort and your systems.

Here’s what to do:

• Check for level front-to-back and side-to-side using a bubble level or built-in system.
• Use leveling blocks under the tires if needed to correct uneven ground.
• Engage wheel chocks to prevent movement.
• Put down stabilizers if your RV is equipped with them.

Once parked, level, and stabilized, take a moment to inspect your surroundings again. Make sure you’re clear of branches, nearby hookups are accessible, and you're within your site’s boundaries.

Confidence Comes with Experience

The first few times you park your small RV, you might feel overwhelmed, but rest assured, it gets easier. Each successful parking attempt builds your skills and muscle memory. What feels awkward today will soon become second nature. Remember, even seasoned RVers were once beginners.

Smaller RVs are excellent training grounds for mastering these techniques because they’re more maneuverable and forgiving. Whether you’re parking in a campground, rest stop, or residential area, your skills will only improve with time.

Hit the Road with Confidence by Starting at Berryland Campers

Looking for a small RV that makes driving and parking simple? At Berryland Campers, we specialize in helping people find RVs that match their travel goals and experience level. Whether you're just starting your RV journey or looking to downsize, we have the perfect fit. Our team will walk you through everything, including how to park like a pro!