Campgrounds to Trails: The Best Free RV Apps
When hitting the road with your RV, having the right tools at your fingertips can make all the difference in making your trip stress-free and fun. That’s where these free RV apps come in! From planning your route to finding campgrounds, exploring hiking trails, or preparing for emergencies, there are apps tailored to meet the many needs of RV enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just starting your adventure, this list of must-have free RV apps will help you maximize your travels and explore with confidence.
Note: * means that the app is free to download with basic functionality but has in-app purchases for full use of the app’s features.
Free RV Apps for Driving & Camping
Roadtrippers*
Map out your route and plan the stops you’ll make on your trip. Discover local businesses, scenic outlooks, national parks and other exciting stops along the way to your destination.
Waze
One of the most popular GPS/directional driving apps, Waze lets you know what’s up ahead. Other Waze users can report traffic, accidents, police officers, construction and more. Waze can even redirect you based on this information!
Campendium*
Search for nearby campgrounds and get detailed information from other campers. The app provides campground suggestions, reviews, amenities, website links and more. You can filter by electrical hookups, ratings, price, campground type and other requirements to find exactly where you want to stay.
Hipcamp
This comprehensive camping app shows nearby places to stay, sort of like an Airbnb for RVers. This includes private campgrounds, wineries that allow overnight RV parking, and more. From national parks to private drives, find the perfect location to park your RV with Hipcamp.
RV LIFE*
This app does just what the name implies, it’s a perfect partner for the RV lifestyle. Find local campgrounds, use the in-app GPS, and even explore nearby parks and things to do while offline.
GasBuddy
Quickly search and locate the closest gas station with the best price. GasBuddy will show you all the gas stations near you and their prices so you can save money on the road.
RV Parky*
This RV park directory app, developed by a full-time RVer, will help you get inside info from the RV community. Users can rate campgrounds, enter information and add photos of RV parks around the US and Canada.
AllStays*
One of the best free RV apps to find a place to park your rig overnight, AllStays allows you to filter and explore nearby places to camp. You can even save campgrounds you love and list your top spots for next time.
Recreation.gov
If you prefer to camp at federal recreation sites across the country, rather than private campgrounds, Recreation.gov is one of the best free RV apps to download. Use this app to find government-owned campgrounds, campground maps and amenities, and make and manage your reservations.
Favorite Apps for Hikers
National Park Trail Guide
This app is built for hikers with all the best trails at national parks across the country. Even offline, it allows you to see your exact position on the trail with a topographic map view. Hikers can search by trail difficulty, view photos of each trail and read reviews. Note that this app is not owned or managed by the parks themselves.
AllTrails*
Access nearly half a million trail maps from anywhere with AllTrails. You can filter by trail length, difficulty rating, dog friendliness, best views and more to make sure you find exactly the trail you want. Stay safe with GPS tracking, and share your pace, distance, max speed and more with friends!
Avenza Maps*
Known as the world’s largest offline map collection, Avenza Maps is a popular choice in the hiking community. You can mark spots, like your campground or the lookout you saw earlier, on the map so finding your way back is easy. Like the others, this app allows you to track your distance, speed and more along the way.
Emergency Resource Apps
First Aid: American Red Cross
Be prepared with first aid guidance for all kinds of situations. The Red Cross app provides step-by-step first aid instructions, video guides and safety tips. The app works without an internet connection and lets you easily navigate between different types of emergencies.
Pet First Aid
Also from the American Red Cross, this app helps you stay prepared for emergencies of the four-legged varieties. Similar to its human-focused companion, this app provides guidance for emergency situations related to cats and dogs.
Free RV Apps for Education and Exploration
ExploreHere*
Wherever you travel, this app is your partner in discovering nearby places to visit. This can be anything from historical markers to connect with the past, to hot springs to relax and recharge. Never miss a roadside destination while on the go.
National Park Service
The official app for the National Park Service allows you to discover and explore your next outdoor vacation destination. Find the scenic spots throughout the parks, learn the best times of day to visit and even take virtually guided tours right from your phone.
Night Sky*
Explore the night sky wherever you are with AR (augmented reality) on the Night Sky app. Stargazing is easier than ever as the app helps you identify the planets and constellations above you. Users can even “zoom in” past what the naked eye can see to explore stars and galaxies more closely.
Top-Rated Weather Apps
AccuWeather*
One of the most highly rated weather apps, AccuWeather will help you plan ahead and stay safe from extreme weather conditions. The app includes local radars, detailed forecasts and severe weather warnings.
Windy.com*
One of the most popular sites to visit during storm season is available in app format as well! Use the app to explore radars, get live storm tracking and view detailed breakdowns of weather conditions. It also offers smartphone and smartwatch widget options.
The Weather Channel*
Be prepared and get alerts about adverse weather conditions in your area with The Weather Channel official app! One of the most trusted weather stations on your TV is now available to explore and interact with on your phone. Track storms, monitor weather conditions and even get personalized weather reports based on your behaviors and location.
Whether you’re mapping out your journey, searching for the perfect campground, or staying informed about weather conditions, free RV apps are essential tools for any road trip. These apps are designed to enhance your adventure, from the practical to the fun.
Shop for Your Next Adventure at Juniata Valley RV
When you’re gearing up for your next RV adventure, the right camper can make all the difference. At Juniata Valley RV, we offer a wide selection of RVs for sale to suit every lifestyle and budget. Whether you’re looking for a compact travel trailer for weekend getaways or a spacious fifth wheel for extended road trips, we’ve got you covered.
Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect RV. Plus, with RVIA-certified technicians on-site, you can trust us for any RV service, repairs or maintenance to keep your rig in top shape. Visit Juniata Valley RV today and let us help you hit the road.
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