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Updated April 11, 2024
We are snowbirds and go to Florida every winter to escape the cold weather. We are planning to winter in Arizona in 2025, so we know how hard it is to find cheap snowbird RV destinations.
If you’re looking for cheap snowbird RV destinations, there are more tah you think to choose from. Many of these cheap snowbird RV destinations are a stone’s throw away from where you’d like to be.
Grab a pen and notebook so you can take notes as we show you some of the cheapest snowbird RV destinations in the Sunbelt.
Where is the Sunbelt Located?
Depending on who you ask, the Sunbelt is located among the 15 southern states of the continental U.S. They include:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Florida
- Georgia
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- North Carolina
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
Florida and Arizona are also known as the most popular. You’ll find cheap snowbird RV destinations with many fun activities throughout the entire sunbelt.
What is the Snowbird Lifestyle?
People living the RV snowbird lifestyle migrate to the sunbelt during the winter months. They could own, lease, or rent a brick-and-stick home. Others may travel with their RV or have a park model already set up for the winter.
Snowbirds usually come from the snowbelt states in the US and Canada, to get away from that icky white stuff I heard is called snow. They may head south for a few weeks or even months to get to a warmer destination.
The cheap snowbird RV destinations they go to have lower living costs than their northern residents. These places are also alluring because they have easy shopping, attractions, and medical care access. These are just a few of the reasons they head to a particular destination.
Traditionally, snowbirds are retirees who have a house in the north and head south for the winter. These days, there is a much broader definition of a snowbird. Anyone, of any age who travels south in the winter could also be classified as a snowbird.
Where do Snowbirds Go in RVs?
Snowbirds take their RVs where it’s warm. They generally want to find tourist destinations with plenty to do and sites with beautiful water settings or great views.
They want cheap snowbird RV destinations, but they don’t want to lose all that aforementioned stuff. Finding the perfect balance of things to do and cheap snowbird RV destinations is the key to a great winter location.
Are Snowbird RV Sites Difficult To Get?
If you plan on hitting the road in your RV during winter, then snowbird destinations are a must. These sunny spots offer a welcome escape from the cold weather in other parts of the country.
Whether snowbird RV sites are challenging to get depends on various factors.
Some popular snowbird destinations can be pretty competitive when securing a spot.
For example, Florida’s Gulf Coast is a highly sought-after location for RVers, and many RV parks and resorts in this area have waiting lists for the winter season.
However, plenty of affordable and less crowded options are available if you’re willing to research and plan. And with the rise of online reservation systems, booking your spot in advance is easier.
One tip for securing a snowbird site is to be flexible with travel dates. Many RV parks offer discounted rates during the shoulder season (fall and spring), so consider planning your trip around those times if possible.
Another option is to look into state or national parks in popular snowbird destinations. While they may not offer all the amenities of an RV resort, they often have beautiful natural settings and lower rates.
Joining RV clubs or organizations not only provides access to exclusive discounts and deals at various parks but also offers a strong sense of community. These clubs can be a home away from home, filled with like-minded individuals who share your passion for RV travel.
10 Cheap RV Snowbird Destinations in the Sunbelt States
Now that you’re dreaming of a sunny winter getaway let’s take a look at 10 great snowbird destinations in the sunbelt!
1. California: Destiny McIntyre RV Resort
We love the beautiful Eastern California area. It is a mecca of outdoor activities, including water sports and dune exploration. Blythe is in the Palo Verde Valley of the Lower Colorado River Valley region, which boasts agricultural and desert areas. It is about 224 miles east of Los Angeles and 150 miles west of Phoenix.
Check out the Blythe Intaglios while you are there. These massive geometric figures were etched by Native Americans into the earth. In 1975, they earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places. Bring a drone if you want to see these ancient carvings from above.
The pleasant winter climate ranges from the mid-60s in December and January to the mid-70s in February and March. Enjoy spectacular sunsets and bring your sand toys (side-by-side ATVs, dune buggies, and Jeeps) to explore the nearby BLM deserts. And southern California is another warm snowbird location. Check out our article called 13 Best RV Parks In and Near San Diego for more info.
Where to Stay
Destiny McIntyre RV Resort is a cheap snowbird RV destination that offers access to several outdoor activities and boasts monthly rates of $395 to $445. The resort offers boat ramps, beach areas, free WiFi, and an onsite convenience store.
2. Arizona: Campground USA
Arizona is a great winter destination with many things to see and do. While the state boasts a ton of 55-plus resorts, there are some great places for the younger set and even families to stay as well.
We recommend you check out Apache Junction, just 35 miles east of Phoenix, with the nearby Superstition Mountains. Set in the national forest, it has some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. Lost Dutchman State Park offers a ton of hiking trails in the 300-acre park.
Don’t miss Tonto National Forest, Goldfield Ghost Town, or the Commemorative Air Force Museum, all close enough for a day trip. Sedona is another very popular RV camping location that is just about 2 hours north. The weather in Arizona during winter is perfect for a hike, and it usually stays in the mid-60s to low 70s most days.
Where to Stay
Campground USA may not be the least expensive on the list but it has a lot of great pluses for a cheap RV snowbird destination in Arizona. It’s big-rig friendly and boasts spacious back-in and pull-through sites with patios, paved streets, a swimming pool and spa, a clubhouse, a pickleball court, WiFi and Cable for long-term stays, and also a dog park, all in a gated community.
Monthly rates for a standard site are $795, and for a premium site, the site is $895, including electricity. Monthly stays require a $250 deposit.
3. New Mexico: Hacienda RV Resort
Located on the edge of the Chihuahuan Desert and bordering Texas, Las Cruces is a great place for snowbirds. From December through February, winter temperatures range from the upper 50s to mid-60s.
While there, we think you might want to visit the interactive New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, which features livestock and gardens, take a hike, or observe the birds at the Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park on the Rio Grande River.
The Museum of Nature and Science includes desert animals and hands-on displays. The Railroad Museum, housed in an old depot, has model trains and explores the impact of railways in the area.
Where to Stay
Hacienda RV Resort touts its setting as an excellent place for rest with breathtaking views. High-speed internet makes it the perfect snowbird destination for “tech-savvy tourists” or “work-away-from-home explorers.”
With a monthly rate starting at $500 plus electric, this desert oasis boasts paved roads and extra-long sites, as well as a workout facility, hot tub, dog run, event room for cards and games, fully stocked gift shop, clubhouse, outdoor patio with fireplace and community room.
4. Texas: Port A RV Resort
Texas is a great and popular snowbird destination. Like California, it’s a big state, and the further south you go, the warmer the weather. I spent eight months in the area of Port Aransas and I can’t say enough about the fun things we did there.
You can kayak or canoe on the inland waterway, fish right off the beach, buy shrimp off the boat, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the island’s restaurants, or explore San Jose Island. A 30-minute drive over the causeway takes you to Corpus Christie, a great city for sightseeing.
The Port Aransas Ferry will take you off the island to more exploring in nearby Rockport or Aransas Pass. A trip on the free ferry is worth it just to see the dolphins breaching at the front of the boat.
Snowbirds abound in Port Aransas, so make your reservation at least a year in advance. While the weather can be a bit windy at times, the temperatures usually stay in the mid-60s in December, January, and February.
If you spend your winter in Texas, be aware that the term there is Winter Texan, not snowbird. Once you get past that, there are several RV resorts on the island but I would not take the cheapest one there or you’ll find some really tight campsites—like, you-can’t-extend-your-awning-or-extend-your-entry-steps-due-to-your-neighbor’s-sewer-hose, tight.
Where to Stay
Check out Port A RV Resort, just a stone’s throw from Port Aransas. WiFi and cable are among the amenities you will have while you stay at Port A. You can relax by the temperature-controlled pool and spa or head out to the beach.
Here, you can drive on the 6 miles of beach and enjoy the gulf’s warm waters. At $749 per month, plus $100 for electricity, Port A is a great place for the sand and sea lovers.
5. Louisiana: Midway RV Park & Marina
Don’t forget the great state of Louisiana as a possible snowbird locale and also a great place to find some of the cheapest snowbird RV destinations in the sunbelt.
Natchitoches is a favorite destination with so much history to explore. Check out the oldest general store in Louisiana, Kaffie Frederick General Mercantile, established in 1863 at the height of the Civil War. This is a must-see and a great place to find souvenirs, toys, and random items you didn’t know you needed or existed.
Check out the Natchitoches Christmas Festival with more than 3,000 lights throughout the downtown district and the Cane River Lake. This 90-year-old festival is celebrated for more than six weeks and features visits from Santa, home tours, carriage rides, parades, fireworks, and more.
The Oakland and Magnolia plantations are part of the Cane River Creole National Historic Park, a 63-acre preservation area that showcases the lives of the Creole people from more than 150 years ago.
Where to Stay
The Red River flows past Midway RV Park & Marina, allowing boating, kayaking, and year-round fishing, which is the biggest draw to the park. Catch bass, perch, and catfish as you relax and watch the river flow past.
The 10-acre campground has full hookup sites for just $400 per month, including electricity. That price also includes coffee and biscuits every morning and an on-site restaurant that sells bait for fishing. Pets are welcome, and the sites are roomy enough for big rigs.
6. Mississippi: Southern Comfort Camping Resort
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a great and popular winter destination, and there are plenty of cheap snowbird RV destinations as well. Stay near Biloxi, and you will find miles of sandy beaches, plenty of sunshine, Cajun food, unique museums, and, of course, casinos.
Check out the Walter Anderson Museum of Art where you can see more than 1,000 paintings, wood carvings, and ceramics. The museum also hosts beer tastings, movie nights, and more.
The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum will give you a look into the lives of fishermen along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Enjoy fresh seafood or take a day trip to New Orleans for historic home tours or a powdered beignet at Café Du Monde.
Where to Stay
Southern Comfort Camping Resort is centrally located, nestled among the oaks, and just steps away from the sugar-white beaches of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Among the 96 sites, you will find amenities such as cable TV and WiFi, propane on-site, a swimming pool, a rec room, and a dog walk.
Enjoy nearby fishing, play golf, or throw the dice at a nearby casino. Check out museums, shopping, go-kart tracks, jet skis, and some of the best seafood. With a monthly rate of $650, including electricity, this is a great place for snowbirds to spend the winter without breaking the bank.
7. Alabama: Gulf Shores RV Park
For all you water-loving snowbirds, Gulf Shores, Alabama, is another great winter destination with plenty to do and beaches to roam nearby. We stayed here in the winter of 2023, and it was a fantastic location. Gulf Shores is home to beautiful beaches, clear waters, and warm southern hospitality.
Explore Gulf Shore’s six distinct ecosystems, including trails through freshwater marshes and swamps. Play golf, boat, snorkel, or sip wine while watching a beautiful sunset.
Explore Alligator Alley and watch the sunset at Orange Beach by kayak or paddleboard. Average winter temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 70s. Water temperatures can be a bit chilly in December and January, but you can always swim in a wetsuit.
Where to Stay
Gulf Shores RV Park has a great and active snowbird community in a shady setting just four miles from the beach. Amenities include an outdoor and indoor pool and jacuzzi, a clubhouse with a library, TV, and game room, and a large room for community events. Sites are big-rig friendly, with cement and grassy areas in between.
An enclosed pavilion is used for games, group exercise, or community activities. The large park also has three bathhouses and free WiFi. This park has a lot of appeal for a great price at just $575 for a monthly rate, including electricity.
8. Florida: Ocala Sun RV Resort
Nicknamed the Horse Capital of the World, Ocala is surrounded by thoroughbred farms and some of the most beautiful land in Florida. The Ocklawaha River flows through the area, while Silver Springs State Park is nearby. Don’t forget to check out the Ocala National Forest, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Ocala offers a lower cost of living and is still within reach of Orlando, Tampa, and Daytona Beach.
While there, check out Fort King National Historic Park or enjoy the Silver Springs State Park with a glass-bottom boat tour or a kayak trip. This park is also the gateway to the woods and lakes of the Ocala National Forest. Visit the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame. The collections include hundreds of vehicles, exhibits, and historical items spread over two buildings.
The Florida Keys are a very popular snowbird location but the RV campgrounds are more expensive. Check out our article called The Best RV Parks in the Florida Keys – A Complete Guide for more info!
Where to Stay
You can walk to the Don Garlits Museum from the Ocala Sun RV Resort and after a busy day of museums, parks, and water fun, enjoy the heated pool and spa, relax with friends at your spacious RV site, or join other residents for weekly activities.
The surrounding area is also full of golf courses, restaurants, theaters, shopping centers, and more to keep you busy. The full hookup RV sites are big-rig friendly and extra-long for easy in and out. The monthly rate is $695, including electricity, and is perfect for an affordable winter stay.
9. Georgia: McIntosh Lake RV Park
Snowbirds will love Georgia with its beautiful state parks, quiet beaches, and urban hotspots. Savannah is a popular destination for its coastal location while providing everything you would want in an urban location.
Hop on the Old Savannah Trolley and see some of the city’s prime landmarks such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Temple Mickve Israel, the Sorrel Weed House, the Mansion of Forsythe Park, and the Mulberry Inn, and the Pirates House. Check out City Market, four blocks of open-air shopping, plus dining and art.
Walk the cobblestone streets on the Savannah River waterfront and enjoy shopping, dining, and more galleries. Winter temperatures range in the low 60s to mid-70s.
Where to Stay
McIntosh Lake RV Park, located in Townsend, Georgia is between St. Simon’s Island and Savannah. This park is great for snowbirds because of its proximity to many things to do. At $450 per month and $.013 per KWH, you can stay the entire winter or make it a part of your winter trip to Florida and points south.
Located on the edge of a beautiful spring-fed lake, you can relax here with a deck and free fishing. The park offers free WiFi which supports streaming and full hookup sites with both 30 and 50-amp service. There is an onsite community social hall, as well as a community campfire, laundry, Cable, and plenty of big-rig access sites.
10. South Carolina: Big Cypress Lake RV/ Fishing Retreat
South Carolina boasts several coastal cities that are home to thousands of snowbirds every year. Myrtle Beach is a popular destination with plenty of RV parks and tons to do in the area. On the Atlantic coast, Myrtle Beach is the hub of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile string of beaches.
Along the beachfront boardwalk are arcades, souvenir stands, restaurants, Family Kingdom amusement park, and the SkyWheel, one of the country’s tallest Ferris Wheels.
If you want to get away from the crowds, check out Pawley’s Island for a peaceful getaway. Loggerhead Sea Turtles head to Pawley Island’s shores to nest. It is also known for its beaches and dunes, Brookgreen Gardens zoo, sculptures, and gardens featuring native plants.
Where to Stay
Big Cypress Lake RV/Fishing Retreat provides snowbirds with the benefits of living in coastal South Carolina but with a great monthly rate in a quiet, peaceful setting. Guests can enjoy free fishing on the mile-long spring-fed private fishing lake where you can catch largemouth bass, bream, and crappie.
Free garden spots and lots of open green space are a plus. Take advantage of the walking/bicycle trail in a great climate. Temperatures in the winter are generally in the low 60s. Monthly sites are $725 and include full hookups, electricity, water, and sewer included.
Sites are crushed limestone, including picnic tables, prewired cable TV and Internet for monthly stays, and fire rings. The park is just 15 minutes from Myrtle Beach.
How Much Are Snowbird RV Sites?
Snowbird RV sites can vary in cost depending on location, amenities, and of course the length of your stay.
A site costs between $500 and $1500 per month. However, if you plan strategically, you can significantly reduce the cost.
As mentioned, staying during the shoulder season or choosing state or national parks can save money. Joining RV clubs often provides discounts at participating parks. Some clubs even offer discounted rates for long-term stays.
It’s also important to consider the cost of utilities when budgeting for a snowbird RV site. Many parks include water, sewer, and electricity in their monthly fee, but it’s always best to confirm beforehand to avoid surprises.
Are There Snowbird RV Sites With RVs Included?
Yes, some Snowbird RV sites offer rental RVs for those who do not own one. Opting for this alternative can be more affordable and space-saving than owning an RV.
However, rental rates may vary depending on the season and location. Cheap snowbird RV destinations that come with a RV included will be much harder to find, however, they’re out there.
It’s best to research and compare prices before booking. Some RV sites also offer long-term rental options for those looking to stay for an extended period.
How to Be a Snowbird at 30
Thanks to remote jobs and flexible housing options like an RV, the term snowbird is no longer just attached to retirees who can afford multiple living spaces. From work campers to seasonal workers, you can be mobile even at the age of 30.
Carpe diem is the phrase for many of these working-age folks who would rather not wait until retirement to enjoy life, see this beautiful country, and explore the world.
Even if you have a family, what a great experience for the kids. If you are middle-aged, go ahead and quit the 9-5 for a happier life. If you are single, don’t hesitate to step out and live your desired life.
Of course, since the definition of a snowbird has changed as the Modern Era (2008-Present) began, how does one go about finding RV parks without age restrictions (55-plus).
Cheap Snowbird RV Destination Tips for Working-Age Snowbirds
If you’re a working-age snowbird, here are some cheap snowbird RV destination tips to help you find an excellent RV park for the winter. Don’t stay in the high-end communities, stay further out of town, or choose communities that aren’t already well-populated with retirees.
Nice places that fit your budget do exist. You will find some great and cheap places if you research it well. Also, remember that cheap is relative. What may be a great price for someone may not be for others.
If you are 30-something, you will likely work remotely and not be on vacation. You may have work to do, but don’t let that keep you from choosing an area that reflects the activities and lifestyle you enjoy most. Know that while you may not get out every day, you will want to make the most of your time there.
Is A Snowbird RV Site A Good Investment?
Investing in a snowbird RV site can be an excellent opportunity for those looking for a secondary, seasonal residence. It provides the freedom to travel and explore different locations while still having a comfortable place to stay.
Owning an RV site can bring in potential rental income during the off-season when you’re not using it. Offsetting the cost of ownership can make the investment financially sound.
However, like any real estate investment, risks are involved, such as changes in demand or regulations. It is important to thoroughly research the location and market trends before purchasing.
Final Words About Cheap Snowbird RV Destinations
There are some great places to stay in the sunbelt that don’t have to break the bank, and you don’t have to be 55 or older to enjoy them. If you desire to be a snowbird, whether you are 30 or 60, you can take advantage of some of the places we recommend or do your own research to find something that will fit your lifestyle.
Related Reading:
– 20 Best RV Retirement Communities Across the US
– 10 Most Googled RV Rental Destinations
– 22 Best Tips for Full Time Living in a Camper
– 10 Best RV Clubs for Seniors
– 10 Best RV Parks In South Florida
Mike Scarpignato – Bio
Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.
Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.
We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.
We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.
Ocala Sun RV Resort charges a high .17 KWH charge for electricity for thir monthly renters. It is not included in the price. Campground USA in AZ charges .15 KWH for monthly renters.
Hi Joe,
Thanks for the info about electric rates at Snowbird destinations in the sun belt…
Mike
You completely missed the best deals. Right across the river from Blythe, CA is Quartzsite, AZ. BLM at Q hosts the LaPosa Long Term Visitor Area.
Semi-boondocking. BLM provides water points and dump stations as well as a garbage service for a grand total of $180. for all winter season. Best deal that I know of in the US.
Hi Dave,
Thanks for the info about some really cheap places for snowbirds!
Mike