For some, the matter of checking into a campground has been performed so often it has become second nature, but those that have recently joined the RV lifestyle often find that reserving space in a campground can be perplexing.

Directories are available at most camping supply outlets that detail locations and available services of campgrounds around the country. Highway signs and local chamber of commerce offices can also be a good source in finding campground accommodations. Many state and national forest campgrounds serve RV users on a first come basis, and you may find it helpful to arrive earlier in the week to assure a site before the weekend crowd arrives.

When determining campground arrangements it helps to learn the language:

Full Hook-Ups is a term commonly used when the camping spot includes water, sewer, 30-amp electrical power, and in some cases, telephone and cable television connections. 50-Amp service may be available, occasionally at extra charge.

Partial Hook-Ups: Usually limited to water and electric. Water may be only fresh water supplies, with no sewer dump, and electric may be limited to 15 or 30-amp.

No Hook-Ups: This site generally provides only for parking. You will need to draw on services within the RV through holdings tanks, battery power, solar panels, and the generator.

Give the reservations clerk specific information, including the length of your RV and number of slide out rooms, pets on board, and how many days you intend to stay. The campground may provide pull through sites for larger rigs. Stop early to set up camp during the daylight hours. When making campground reservations, find out the check in/check out times, and the amount of advance notice required for cancellation refunds.

Follow the campground rules. Quiet Time is when generator operation is prohibited. Trash disposal may go into a central dumpster, or be collected from in front of the RV during a certain time of the day. If washing the RV is disallowed, inquire whether it is permissible to clean the front cap and windshield. Leave the campsite cleaner then how you found it.

Practice safety measures. Keep the RV locked when you are away from the vehicle, and store food out of reach of wild animals. When visiting multiple campgrounds keep a business card with the campsite number written on the back in your pocket at all times for easy reference. Keep record of campgrounds you find suitable for future reference.