I’ll admit it, I’m a bit of an amusement park junkie. It started with a love of Disney World, but has definitely bled over into an obsession with theme parks in general, and I especially love visiting amusement parks in an RV.
Hoping to check out an amusement park or two in your RV? Here’s what you should know and where you should go.
Why Visit an Amusement Park in Your RV?
Obviously, the reason to visit an amusement park at all is to have fun, but why do it in an RV specifically? There are actually a few reasons I prefer visiting amusement parks in our rig.
- Travel on your own schedule: An RV lets you leave when you want, take scenic detours, and avoid the stress of rushing to and from the amusement park.
- Save on lodging costs: Staying in your RV at a nearby campground or RV park can be more affordable than booking a hotel, especially for families or longer trips.
- Bring the comforts of home: Enjoy your own kitchen, bathroom, beds, and air conditioning, making it easier to relax before and after a full day of rides and attractions.
- Pack everything you need: There’s plenty of room for snacks, extra clothes, strollers, coolers, and souvenirs without worrying about luggage limits.
- Turn one destination into a bigger adventure: Use the amusement park as part of a longer road trip, exploring nearby attractions, parks, and towns before heading home.
The Best Amusement Parks to Visit in Your RV
Walt Disney World Resort – Florida
Always at the top of my list, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida should be on every RVer’s bucket list. This amazing place offers four magical amusement parks, two amazing water parks, and more. Honestly, you could spend weeks here and never run out of things to do.
The thing that makes this resort particularly attractive to RVers? The onsite RV park and campground: Fort Wilderness. This is one of the best campgrounds in the country. It offers full hookups, beautiful bathhouses, onsite dining, cool character interactions, amazing pools, and transportation to the parks.
Cedar Point – Ohio
Often referred to as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves thrills. Here you’ll find all kinds of world-famous coasters. These include Millennium Force, Steel Vengeance, and Maverick, all of which attract visitors from all over the world.
Like Disney World, Cedar Point also plays host to a campground. This one is called Lighthouse Point and is a lovely place to stay. Here you’ll find full hookup campsites alongside lots of other amenities and the easy access to the amusement park really can’t be beat.
Dollywood – Tennessee
Every RVer should visit the Smoky Mountains at one point or another and while you’re there, you should definitely go check out Dollywood. This is a beautiful amusement park that is on the same level as Disney when it comes to cleanliness and maintenance. I love that the park offers some big thrills as well as kiddie rides, family rides, and some of the best theme park entertainment out there.
Dollywood does not have an onsite campground, but there are tons of amazing campgrounds in the area. Our favorite place to stay is at one of the Douglas Dam campgrounds. These campgrounds don’t offer the best amenities in the world, but they are clean, pretty, and the price point can’t be beat.
Hersheypark – Pennsylvania
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania is one of those places we find ourselves visiting time and time again. There’s just something about the area that feels like home. The people are friendly, the scenery is gorgeous, and while it feels rural, we still find plenty to see and do. One of the best things to do? Hersheypark.
This amusement park offers family attractions as well as thrill rides. It also has some pretty silly character meet and greets that younger children will really enjoy.
There are lots of campgrounds in this area, but one of the best choices is Hersheypark Camping Resort. This RV park offers lovely amenities and shuttle service to the park, making your stay comfortable and convenient.
Silver Dollar City – Missouri
Branson is another super RV-friendly place that every RV traveler should plan to visit at least once. While in Branson, you’ll want to check out Silver Dollar City.
This park is super well-themed and features rides, of course, but also craftsmen, artisans, and live entertainment. Visitors can watch blacksmiths at work and sample traditional foods before hopping on some amazing coasters or family rides.
While there isn’t an official Silver Dollar City campground, several RV parks and campgrounds operate near Silver Dollar City and many offer shuttle services to the park.
Knott’s Berry Farm – California
Knott’s Berry Farm is one of America’s oldest theme parks, and once you visit, you’ll understand why it’s been in operation for so long. The park blends classic charm with modern attractions in a way that makes it appealing to pretty much everyone. While there, you can experience thrilling roller coasters, family rides, live shows, and wonderfully themed areas inspired by California history.
This is another park that does not play host to a campground, but there are plenty of awesome RV parks in the area to choose from. While in SoCal, be sure to check out Joshua Tree National Park and the many amazing state parks nearby.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg – Virginia
Lastly, I must mention Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia. Really, I love Williamsburg in general because it is so RV friendly and has so many amazing attractions to offer. Busch Gardens is one of the must-sees.
The park has themed villages that represent different European countries. The result is an atmosphere that feels unlike most American amusement parks. Guests can enjoy world-class rides, live performances, and international cuisine.
There are lots of campgrounds in the area and once you’re finished at Busch Gardens, you can check out Colonial Williamsburg, Historic Jamestown, Yorktown Battlefield, and other cool historic attractions.
Planning Your RV Amusement Park Adventure
I used to be a big planner. Now I’m not so much anymore, but I have found that some planning is required in order to make an RV amusement park trip successful.
- First, make sure you reserve your campsite in advance. At more popular amusement parks, nearby campgrounds can fill up fast, so this is crucial.
- Always look for tickets online. Often, you can save big bucks by buying in advance and sometimes there are other discounts available online.
- Make sure you understand what amenities are and are not included with your campground stay. If wi-fi is a must-have, make sure the campground has it. If you need shuttle service, do your research to find a campground that offers that option.
- Know what the weather will be like and plan accordingly. In the summer, make sure to wear a hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothing. In fall and spring, layer up. Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated no matter the weather.
There you have it, everything you need to know for a successful amusement park adventure in your RV. Which park will you visit first?
