It’s decided: you want to try the great adventure in a specialized vehicle? Before you take the plunge, check out our sites and apps for finding motorhome parks.
Travelling by motorhome or van is a unique experience. Let’s be clear: you’re no longer just another traveler, you’re part of a special group. And as with any group, there are a few tips you’ll need to know. For example, what are the secrets to finding the perfect spot every night…
Want to find out? Without further ado, here are the 11 best sites and apps for finding RV parks!
1. Park4night
Photo credit: Facebook – park4night
Advantages: lots of content, unique wild spots, very active community, available offline
Disadvantages: to enjoy all the app’s advantages, it’s best to upgrade to the paid version for 10 euros.
Support(s) : Google Play / AppStore
Park4nigh is the ultimate app for finding RV parks – worldwide! Of course, some countries have less information, but the Park4night community remains the most active wherever you are.
Searches can be made by criteria, and an interactive map is available. Each user can add his or her own contribution to the site: camper van site, nature spot, water refill, laundry, picnic area, etc.
What’s more, you can download the map for offline use. All vanlifers will tell you: you can’t do without it!
2. Google Maps and Maps.me
Photo credit: Google Maps
Advantages: universal, flawless interfaces, available offline
Disadvantages: not specialized for motorhomes
You already know them, but if you’re planning a trip in a camper van or motorhome, you’ll come to know them by heart.
These two apps are must-haves for finding RV parks. Especially in countries where apps and community sites like Park4night are lacking! And even more so in areas where there are no such sites, to find hotels or restaurants where you can park.
Good to know: while Google Maps is richer in information, some countries block the application. That’s why you need Maps.me!
3. Caramaps
Photo credit: Caramaps
Advantages: covers a huge territory
Disadvantages: some areas may be missing
Support(s): Google Play / AppStore / Website
In the same genre as Google Maps and Maps.me, we find Caramaps. Except this time, it’s actually a motorhome application! Everywhere in Europe and beyond, you’ll find an interactive map of motorhome parks near you.
A little extra: a filter allows you to refine your search according to the type of area you’re looking for!
4. iOverlander
Photo credit: Google Play
Advantages: particularly comprehensive, lots of information, works offline
Disadvantages: not specialized for motorhomes
Support(s) : Google Play / AppStore / Website
A real nugget, the iOverlander app is aimed at all types of travelers. It lists service areas, campsites, hotels, wilderness spots, gas stations and much more. And all over the world!
You can download information on a given area as soon as you have Wi-Fi, then enjoy it offline. In short, it’s a must-have.
5. Aires c.car
Photo credit: Google Play
Advantages: lots of content, specialized in motorhomes
Disadvantages: French territory only, pay areas, sometimes lacks info (rates, driving directions, etc.)
Support(s): Google Play / AppStore
This French application is managed by Camping-car Magazine. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, we’re talking about France’s leading motorhome media.
Unlike Park4Night, it targets motorhome owners first and foremost. Ideal, therefore, for finding RV parks and paid service areas. You can’t suggest new sites, but you can add photos and comments.
6. Camping-car d’hôtes
Photo credit: Google Play
Advantages: user-friendly, free parking
Disadvantages: covers French territory only, still lacks content
Support(s): Google Play / AppStore / Website
Camping-car d’hôtes is a concept based on conviviality. It allows you to find motorhome parks all over France and stay with local people.
Parking is grouped into three categories: free, with contribution (maximum 15 euros) and exchange. In the latter case, you can spend the night at an inn, museum or castle in exchange for their services.
7. Camping-car Park
Photo credit: Google Play
Advantages: clarity, telephone service
Disadvantages: French territory only, paying areas
Support(s): Google Play / AppStore / Website
The Camping-car Park website and application list French RV parks and campsites. They enable you to find a parking space where you can recharge your batteries, fill up with water and empty your motorhome.
Prices and options are clearly displayed, so you can quickly find the ideal motorhome park.
8. HomeCamper
Photo credit: Home Camper
Advantages: well-supplied in France, great for meeting new people
Disadvantages: often expensive parking
Support(s): Google Play / Website
HomeCamper lets you park your motorhome with a local. The website and app feature a large number of advertisements, particularly in France. A great alternative for meeting local people and traveling differently… However, outside tourist areas, rates are not always attractive, especially considering the services on offer.
9. Wwoof
Photo credit: Wwoof
Advantages: travel at lower cost, meet new people and immerse yourself in the local culture. Available worldwide
Disadvantages: you have to like working in the countryside.
Support(s): Website
Here’s an alternative to apps for finding RV parks. Indeed, for many vanlifers, woofing offers great opportunities to travel differently.
How does it work? You work on a farm. In exchange, you’ll receive room, board and laundry! For those who want to immerse themselves in local life and meet new people, this is an ideal solution. But of course, you need to enjoy working the land and have time on your hands.
10. The world of motorhomes
Photo credit : Le Monde du Camping-Car
Advantages: comprehensive motorhome website
Disadvantages: covers French territory only, no app, interface can sometimes have bugs
Support(s): Google Play / AppStore / Website
The motorhome world has a large number of motorhome parks throughout France. An interactive map makes it easy to find what you’re looking for.
If it’s not the richest database, it can sometimes help. All the more so as the site is backed up by an in-depth knowledge of this very special world. And by a rather active community!
11. France Passion
Photo credit: Google Play
Advantages: original, user-friendly concept, offers exclusive stages
Disadvantages: covers French territory only, chargeable
Support(s): Google Play / AppStore / Website
Let’s finish off this top list of the best apps and sites for finding RV parks with a concept that’s a little bit different. France Passion lists a large number of exclusive stopovers. They are offered by passionate hosts, who will not only provide you with a quality place to stay, but will also share with you the particularities of their region.
Useful information, tastings, meetings… All you need is a self-contained camper van and a guide to the current year’s stages. It’s yours for 30 euros.
With all these tools in hand, finding RV parks should no longer be a problem. Good luck on the road!