We are excited to start a new blog series today! Every few weeks, we will be talking about all the places you can live with your tiny home. We will look at the pros and cons of each living situation, as well as the logistics.
For our first blog in this series, we are talking about RV parks. We know what you're thinking: I'm not buying an RV. That's okay! If you're buying a tiny home on wheels (THOW), this information is for you.
Legal Status
Most states recognize a tiny home on wheels as a recreational vehicle (RV). In order to be considered a permanent home, you typically need to build your tiny home on a foundation. We'll talk more about that in a future blog post.
Most states require THOW to be inspected before given an RV title. And even if your jurisdiction doesn't require an RVIA certification, many RV parks will.
What is RVIA? Well, it's a lot like NOAH, but it is intended for all recreational vehicles. As of right now, Indigo River Tiny Homes are built to RVIA standards but do not come RVIA certified.
PROs
There are plenty of great reasons to live in an RV park! Let's look at one that is also a con: the cost. Often, RV park rent is cheaper than house rent. If you aren't in a position to buy land and pay on it, RV parks are a great option.
RV parks are all over the country. They are easy to find wherever you want to go. Apps like RV Parky can help you search for exactly what you need.
Sometimes RV parks have great amenities. Free WiFi and cable are often included. Many have swimming pools, playgrounds, dog runs, and more! Some even have things like mini golf courses! RV parks are meant for vacationers, so you will likely be close to many fun activities.
RV parks also have great social opportunities! For families with children, you'll never be without plenty of kids to play with. RV parks often host social gatherings like mom's night, game nights, or Bible studies. Check each RV park to see what they have.
If you are retired, there are plenty of RV parks that are meant for the 55+ age group. This can be a great source of community after retirement.
CONs
Let's look at the downside of living in RV parks first. One of the major downsides of living in an RV park is the space. You will be given a lot for your tiny home and your vehicle. But in most cases, you will be living very close to your neighbors! There's often not much of a view. If you want a tiny home to be able to spend more time in nature, RV parks may not be the best option.
There is also the cost. RV parks can range anywhere from $400 to $1000 a month. If you stay longer than a couple months, you will usually have to pay electric, too.
RV parks often have strict regulations. Some may not allow tiny homes even with an RVIA certification. For some RV parks that are tiny home-friendly in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, check out our FAQ.
Moving into an RV park requires planning! Make your reservations several months in advance. Full-time spots are hot commodities.
What do you think about RV parks? Are they the right choice for you and your tiny home?