A Thousand Trails Camping

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If you’re looking for a way to camp more often and in more places, you might want to learn about a thousand trails camping. This network is a popular choice for RVers and campers who want a structured way to access a variety of campgrounds.

Let’s break down exactly what it is, how it works, and if it could be a good fit for your adventures. We’ll cover the costs, the benefits, and the potential drawbacks so you can make an informed decision.

A Thousand Trails

At its core, A Thousand Trails is a membership camping network. It’s not a single campground, but a collection of hundreds of campgrounds and RV resorts across the United States and Canada. Members pay an initial fee and annual dues for the right to camp at these locations, often for no additional nightly cost.

The idea is simple: you pay for access, and in return, you get a vast number of places to stay. It’s like a subscription service for your campsites.

How Does the Membership Actually Work?

There are different membership tiers and zones, which can get a bit confusing. Here’s a basic rundown of the typical structure:

  • Zones: The network is divided into zones (like Northwest, Southwest, Midwest, etc.). Your membership level dictates which zones you can camp in.
  • Membership Levels: Options range from a single-zone pass to a nationwide “Concierge” level that includes all zones and additional perks.
  • Nights: Most memberships allow you to stay for up to 14 or 21 nights at a time in the network. After that, you must leave the network for a short period (usually 7 nights) before you can return.
  • Reservations: You book your campsites in advance, just like you would at any other campground. Popular spots and times fill up quickly.

The Different Types of Campgrounds in the Network

Not all campgrounds in the A Thousand Trails network are created equal. You’ll generally find a mix of three types:

  • Camping Preserves: These are often more rustic, located in natural settings. They might have basic amenities like water and electric hookups, a dump station, and simple bathhouses.
  • RV Resorts: These are the more developed locations. They can feature swimming pools, mini-golf, fitness centers, organized activities, and full-hookup sites with patios.
  • Partner Parks: A Thousand Trails has partnerships with other campground networks. Access to these varies by membership level and may come with discounted, not free, nightly rates.

What’s Typically Included in Your Stay?

When you stay at a network campground on your membership, your nightly fee is $0. You’ve already paid through your dues. This covers your site and standard amenities. Things like premium site upgrades (waterfront, extra-long), extra vehicles, or certain activities might cost extra.

Breaking Down the Costs: Is It Worth It?

This is the biggest question. The value completely depends on your camping style. Let’s look at the numbers.

Initial Membership Cost: This can vary wildly. You can sometimes by memberships from existing members looking to sell (often cheaper), or buy directly from the company. Costs can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars for a lifetime, nationwide membership.

Annual Dues: Every year, you pay a maintenance fee. This is usually a few hundred dollars.

The Break-Even Point: To figure out if it’s worth it, you need to do some math.

  1. Estimate how many nights you camp per year.
  2. Multiply that by the average cost of a campsite you usually book (e.g., $50/night).
  3. Compare that total to your annual dues + (initial cost spread over X years).

If you camp 30 nights a year at $50/night, you’re spending $1,500 on campsites. If your annual dues are $600, you’re saving money right away, even before factoring in the initial cost. The more you camp, the faster the membership pays for itself.

Potential Hidden Costs to Consider

  • Travel costs to get to network campgrounds.
  • Upgrades for better sites.
  • Your time and fuel if the network campgrounds are not where you normally want to go.

Who is A Thousand Trails Ideal For?

This model isn’t for everyone. It’s a fantastic fit for certain types of campers.

  • Full-Time or Frequent RVers: If you live on the road or camp most weekends, the savings can be substantial.
  • Snowbirds: Retirees who travel seasonally can use the network for extended stays along their route.
  • Families Who Love Resort Amenities: If your kids love pools and planned activities, the resort-style locations can be a big draw.
  • Campers with Flexible Schedules: Being able to book last-minute or travel off-peak helps secure spots.

Who Might Want to Think Twice?

It might not be the best fit if:

  • You only camp a few times a year.
  • You prefer boondocking or remote public lands (BLM, National Forests).
  • You are very destination-driven and won’t change your plans to use a network campground.
  • The idea of a long-term financial commitment is stressful.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Trying It Out

Don’t just take the plunge. Follow these steps to make a smart choice.

  1. Audit Your Camping Habits: Look back at your last two years of camping. Where did you go? How many nights? What did you pay?
  2. Map the Network: Go to the A Thousand Trails website and look at their campground map. Are there parks in regions you actually visit? Are they near places you want to be?
  3. Calculate Your Break-Even: Do the math we outlined above. Be realistic about your future camping nights.
  4. Consider a Trial: The company often offers “Passport” programs or short-term trial memberships. This lets you pay a smaller fee for a limited time (like 30 days) to try the network.
  5. Talk to Current Members: Find online forums or Facebook groups for members. Ask them about their experiences, the booking process, and if they feel its worth it.
  6. Attend a Sales Presentation (Cautiously): If you’re interested, you can attend a presentation at one of their resorts. They often offer a free night or a trial for attending. Listen, but don’t feel pressured to buy on the spot.

Making the Most of Your Membership

If you do decide to join, these tips will help you get the best experience.

  • Book Early: Especially for holidays and popular locations, reservations open 180 days in advance. Mark your calendar.
  • Be Flexible with Dates: Mid-week stays are easier to book than weekends. Shoulder seasons are less crowded than summer.
  • Have a Plan B: Always have a backup campground in mind in case your first choice is full.
  • Use the “Zone” Model: Plan trips that string together multiple network campgrounds in your zone to maximize your savings on a single trip.
  • Review Campgrounds: Read recent reviews of specific parks. Amenities and conditions can vary a lot from one location to the next.

Common Frustrations Members Mention

It’s not all perfect. Be aware of these common complaints:

  • Older parks may need updates or maintenance.
  • Booking competition can be fierce in high-demand areas.
  • The 14/7 or 21/7 rule can feel restrictive if you want to stay in one area longer.
  • Customer service experiences can vary.

Alternatives to A Thousand Trails

It’s not the only game in town. Consider these other options:

  • Harvest Hosts/Boondockers Welcome: For a yearly fee, you get access to overnight stays at farms, wineries, and private properties (often without hookups).
  • State or Provincial Park Annual Passes: These often waive entry fees but not camping fees. They’re great if you have a favorite state park system.
  • National Park Passes: The America the Beautiful Pass covers entry fees but, again, not camping fees.
  • Just Budgeting for Camping: For some, the simplicity of paying as you go, with total freedom of choice, is the best value of all.

Deciding on a thousand trails camping is a personal financial and lifestyle choice. It requires you to camp enough to justify the cost and to be willing to plan your trips around the network’s locations. For the right person—the frequent camper who enjoys the amenities and can plan ahead—it can open up a continent of affordable camping opportunities. For the occasional camper or the solitude-seeker, it might feel like an unnecessary constraint. Do your homework, run the numbers, and you’ll find the right path for your camping journey.

FAQ Section

What is the Thousand Trails membership?
It’s a subscription-style program where you pay an upfront and annual fee for access to a network of campgrounds, often with no nightly charges during your stay.

How much does a Thousand Trails pass cost?
Costs vary widely. Initial fees can be from a couple thousand to over ten thousand dollars, with annual dues typically in the $500-$800 range. Always check current pricing directly.

Can you use Thousand Trails with a tent?
Yes, many of their Camping Preserves and some RV resorts offer tent sites. However, the network is primarily designed for RVs, so tent-specific amenities may be more basic.

Is there a Thousand Trails membership for sale by owner?
Yes, existing members often sell their memberships through third-party resale companies. This can be a way to get a membership at a lower initial cost, but ensure you understand the transfer process and any remaining obligations.