Finding campsites, booking reservations, planning routes, and staying safe on the road is easier than ever thanks to a growing number of camping and RV apps. This guide highlights the most popular tools for campers, RVers, and roadtrippers — including apps for locating campsites, navigating public lands, checking weather, and managing your trip straight from your phone.
The right app can transform your camping experience from stressful to seamless. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a road trip, a solo getaway or camping with the crew... these tools help avoid disasters and chaos. Find the perfect camping spot, avoid surprises, and make the most of your time outdoors.
New tools pop up constantly, and some niche ones have become surprisingly useful for specific types of campers (RVers, boondockers, hikers, last‑minute planners, etc.). Browse the App Store or Google Play on a monthly basis to see what camping apps have been newly released. Inquire in your Facebook groups to see what other campers are using. Sharing knowledge helps build a better camping community.
Reserve America - www.reserveamerica.com
RA is the largest reservation system for state, public and private campgrounds in the United States. Many state parks rely on it for real‑time availability, site photos, and campground maps.
This is your gateway to National Parks, National Forests, BLM sites, and more. It’s especially useful for high‑demand destinations where reservations open months in advance. The app also handles lotteries for popular hikes and permits.
A fantastic resource for discovering U.S. Forest Service lands, heritage sites, and lesser‑known campgrounds. Great for campers who prefer quieter, more rustic settings.
Beloved by RVers and boondockers, Campendium offers detailed reviews, cell‑signal reports, and insights from people who’ve actually stayed there.
Description: RV park reviews, cell coverage, and boondocking info.
I’ve personally used many of these apps while camping, traveling, and exploring public lands. Some help me find last‑minute sites, others help me navigate forest roads, and a few are simply must‑haves for weather and safety.
Campsitephotos.com is a terrific resource for viewing campsite pictures before you reserve a campsite. Their database includes
thousands of campgrounds across the United States, with more added often. There is a pro-version available, but with a free signup, you gain access to all campsite photos. Input your desired campground into the search feature and see what's available to view. When I am researching new campgrounds, my first stop is usually YouTube. After inputting the desired location, you'll be able to view videos and tips from campers who have already visited.
RV Parky - www.rvparky.com
Created by a full‑time RVer, this app includes RV parks, Walmart, Cracker Barrels, truck stops, and more — perfect for overnight stops on long drives.
Hipcamp - www.hipcamp.com
Often called the “Airbnb of camping,” Hipcamp connects you with private landowners offering everything from primitive tent sites to glamping tents and treehouses.
KOA - https://koa.com
A classic for a reason. KOA campgrounds offer consistent amenities, clean facilities, and options ranging from tent sites to deluxe cabins. Great for families and new campers.
Camp Spot - www.campspot.com
A modern booking platform that lets you instantly reserve sites at campgrounds across the country. It’s fast, intuitive, and growing quickly.
Dare You Spot Green - www.dareyouspot.com
A guide to adventurous routes, points of interest, and events — ideal for campers who like to explore beyond the campground.
A global database of campsites, wild camping spots, and traveler‑submitted tips. Great for overlanders and long‑distance adventurers.
A powerhouse app that covers everything from tent sites to RV resorts, rest areas, fuel stations, low clearances, and more. It’s a must‑have for road‑trippers.
Overnight stays at wineries, farms, breweries, museums, and golf courses. Requires a membership. Great for RVers looking for unique, quiet stops. boondockerswelcome.com is also part of Harvest Hosts.
Campnab - https://campnab.com
Scans for cancellations at sold‑out campgrounds. Works for state parks, national parks, and provincial parks. Perfect for snagging hard‑to‑get sites at peak times. Membership fees start at $10 monthly.
OnX - https://www.onxmaps.com
Extremely useful app for roadtrippers and RVers. Shows truck stops, fuel stations, weigh stations, and safe pull‑offs.
Roadtrippers - https://roadtrippers.com
Great for planning scenic routes. Shows attractions, campgrounds, restaurants, and quirky roadside stops. Very user‑friendly for long RV trips.
Helps campers choose campgrounds near trails they want to hike. Plan, live and share your adventures. Great trail locater.
New tools pop up constantly, and some niche apps have become surprisingly useful for specific types of campers (RVers, boondockers, hikers, last‑minute planners, etc.). Browse the App Store or Google Play on a monthly basis to see what camping apps have been newly released. Inquire in your Facebook groups to see what other campers are using. Sharing knowledge helps build a better camping community.
If you visit Bound4Burlingame's "Useful Apps" website page, you'll find more apps that prove handy for all campers. You will find the download links for first aid, bird and plant identifiers, cooking, constellations, scary stories, geo-caching, pet friendly adventures, games and more!
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