Yes! RVING is an LGBTQ+ Thing
Finding Community in the Great Outdoors
A recreational vehicle is like a magic carpet. It can take you, and those you love, to some incredible destinations, including a place called community.
That’s one reason LGBTQ+ Americans are flocking to the camping and RVing lifestyles. In fact, same-sex couples, especially those with kids, camp more frequently than their heterosexual counterparts, according to a survey conducted by campground operator KOA. An estimated 61% of children in same-sex households went camping in 2020, compared to 54% of children in other households. These folks understand the power of coming together in the outdoors.
While the vast majority of LGBTQ+ campers report few if any problems with other campers, some members of the community still have an understandable hesitation about venturing outside their comfort zone and into nature. Fortunately, today’s RV camping marketplace offers a variety of options to allow both newcomers and veteran RVers to choose their own adventure. This variety makes it easier for first-timers to dip their toes into the RV waters, which are oh so inviting.
LGBTQ+-exclusive campgrounds are a great option for RV-curious people looking for an instant LGBTQ+ community. These facilities, which began to appear in the 1980’s, run the gamut from amenity-packed adults-only RV resorts to simple campgrounds offering little more than the beauty and wonder of their natural surroundings.
If you’re considering an RV, such campgrounds can be a great place to get a sense of the lifestyle. Find one near you and spend the day talking to the RVers you meet. Like all RV owners, these folks tend to be open and welcoming. You probably won’t need to ask for a tour of their RV, they will volunteer to show you around and answer any questions you may have.
Next, think about renting an RV. There are some rental companies that will tow a travel trailer RV to a nearby site of your choosing so you can get a sense of the experience before you master the arts of towing and setting up the unit.
America’s private campgrounds and public lands have grown increasingly inclusive in recent years. True, it’s a long way from perfect. However, thanks to the ongoing work of many outdoor inclusion advocacy groups, more camping areas now have policies that ban unwelcoming symbols and behaviors, LGBTQ+ campers are more likely to experience curious looks and uninformed comments than any open act of hostility. One full-time Lesbian RVer told Together Outdoors that she has never been confronted and is most bothered by the assumptions made by other campers. For example, when RVing with her partner, she’s almost guaranteed to have at least one campground neighbor assume the couple are sisters.
Still, it pays to do your homework to minimize the chance of unhitching in a less-than-accommodating campsite, especially if you’re hoping to explore the natural wonders in certain parts of the country. The LGBTQ+ RV and camping community has a vibrant online presence, which provides a rich source of advice on every aspect of outdoor adventure, including welcoming places to camp. Among the places you’ll find great information are RainbowRV.com and some of the 20-plus national and regional Facebook groups devoted to LGBTQ+ RVing and camping, including LGBTQ+ Camping and RVing in America. YouTube offers a ton of videos with advice on every aspect of RVing, including many created by LGBTQ+ owners.
So, whenever you’re ready, there’s a big, welcoming, knowledgeable community out there ready to help you join the millions of Americans — LGBTQ+ and straight — who share the joy of RV adventure.