The Best Campervan Apps for Adventures on the Road
These Campervan Apps will help you in many ways to make your next adventure richer, safer, and even more fun.
How Can Apps make Campervan Trips Easier?
Apps can significantly enhance the campervan trip experience by providing a wide range of useful features and functionalities. Here are some ways in which apps can make campervan trips easier:
Campground Discovery and Booking: Apps can help users discover and book campgrounds or RV parks, providing information on amenities, availability, pricing, and user reviews. This saves time and ensures a smoother booking process.
Navigation and Maps: GPS and navigation apps specifically designed for campervan travel can provide optimized routes for larger vehicles, highlighting low clearance bridges, weight restrictions, and suitable roads for safe and efficient travel. They can also provide real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.
Campsite Reviews and Recommendations: Apps that offer user-generated reviews and recommendations help campervan travellers make informed decisions about campsites. They provide insights into the quality, amenities, and suitability of different locations, ensuring a better camping experience.
Trip Planning and Itinerary Management: Apps can assist in planning campervan trips by helping users create itineraries, save favourite locations, and organize their travel routes. They can also provide information about points of interest, attractions, and activities along the way.
Offline Access and Connectivity: Some apps offer offline access to maps, campground information, and other essential data, allowing travellers to access information even in areas with limited or no internet connectivity. This is particularly useful for remote camping locations.
Weather Updates and Alerts: Weather apps can provide real-time weather updates, forecasts, and severe weather alerts, helping campervan travellers plan their activities and ensure their safety during the trip.
Campervan Maintenance and Tips: Apps can offer maintenance reminders, checklists, and tips for campervan owners, ensuring that the vehicle is in good condition and ready for the trip. They can also provide troubleshooting guidance for common issues that may arise on the road.
Local Services and Amenities: Apps can help travellers locate nearby services and amenities, including gas stations, grocery stores, rest areas, dump stations, and repair facilities. This ensures convenience and peace of mind during the journey.
Offline Entertainment and Connectivity: Apps that provide offline entertainment options, such as audiobooks, podcasts, or downloaded movies, can help keep campervan travellers entertained during long drives or when internet access is limited. Additionally, apps that offer Wi-Fi hotspot finders can assist in finding reliable connectivity on the road.
Overall, apps can simplify various aspects of campervan trips, providing convenience, information, and assistance to enhance the overall experience for travellers.
Campervan Apps for Great Adventures
Try these highly effective Campervan Apps and online resources and take your adventure to the next level.
The Dyrt App
The Dyrt App is a popular camping and outdoor recreation app that provides a comprehensive platform for planning and discovering camping destinations.
It offers a wide range of features and tools to help campers find and explore campgrounds, RV parks, and other outdoor accommodations across the United States.
Key Features
Campground Search: The Dyrt App allows users to search for campgrounds based on various criteria such as location, amenities, activities, and user reviews. It provides detailed information about each campground, including photos, descriptions, facilities, fees, and contact information.
User Reviews and Ratings: Users can read and contribute campground reviews and ratings, helping others make informed decisions about their camping destinations. The app’s review system includes helpful insights, tips, and experiences shared by fellow campers.
Offline Access: The Dyrt App provides offline access to campground information, maps, and reviews. This feature is particularly useful when exploring areas with limited or no internet connectivity.
Trip Planning: Users can plan their camping trips within the app, creating itineraries and saving favourite campgrounds for future reference. The app also allows users to share their itineraries with friends and family.
Filters and Advanced Search: The app offers advanced search filters to narrow down campground options based on specific requirements, such as pet-friendly facilities, accessibility, tent/RV sites, and more.
Community and Social Features: The Dyrt App fosters a community of outdoor enthusiasts. Users can connect with other campers, share experiences, and participate in discussions. The app also hosts contests and giveaways for users.
Road Trip Planner: The Dyrt App offers a road trip planner feature that allows users to plan multi-stop camping trips, optimizing routes and suggesting campgrounds along the way.
Additional Features: The app provides real-time availability and booking options for select campgrounds. It also offers comprehensive map views, weather information, and campsite photos to aid in decision-making.
Availability
The Dyrt App is available for both iOS and Android devices. It can be downloaded from the respective app stores.
Cost
The Dyrt App offers both free and premium versions. The free version provides basic features, including access to campground information and user reviews.
The premium version, known as The Dyrt PRO, offers additional benefits such as offline access, trip planning, discounts on camping gear, and enhanced search filters. The Dyrt PRO subscription is available on a monthly or annual basis.
Recreation.gov App
Recreation.gov is an app and website that serves as a comprehensive platform for discovering, planning, and reserving recreational activities on federal lands in the United States. It provides access to a wide range of outdoor experiences, including camping, hiking, fishing, boating, and more.
Key Features
Here’s an overview of the key features and information about the Recreation.gov app:
Campground and Facility Search: Recreation.gov allows users to search for campgrounds, cabins, day-use facilities, and other recreational sites across federal lands. Users can filter their search based on location, dates, amenities, activities, accessibility, and more.
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Reservation Booking: The app enables users to make reservations for campsites and other facilities directly within the platform. It provides real-time availability and booking options, allowing users to secure their preferred recreational experiences in advance.
Alerts and Reminders: Users can set up alerts and reminders for campground availability, reservation dates, and other important information. This feature helps users stay informed and ensures they don’t miss out on desired bookings.
Maps and Interactive Features: The Recreation.gov app offers interactive maps that allow users to explore federal lands, view campsites, trails, and recreational amenities. It also provides detailed information about each location, including photos, descriptions, and important notices.
Permits and Passes: The app provides information on various permits and passes required for specific activities or locations. Users can learn about the different types of permits and passes available, their costs, and where to obtain them.
Trip Planning and Itineraries: Recreation.gov offers trip planning tools, allowing users to create itineraries and save favourite locations. Users can add multiple activities, campsites, and points of interest to their itineraries, helping them organize and optimize their outdoor adventures.
Discover Recommendations: The app features curated recommendations and highlights popular destinations and activities based on user ratings, reviews, and seasonal trends. It provides inspiration for users to discover new outdoor experiences.
Alerts and Closures: Recreation.gov sends alerts and notifications about campground closures, weather conditions, safety advisories, and other important updates. This feature helps users stay informed and plan their trips accordingly.
Accessibility Information: The app provides accessibility information for campsites, trails, and facilities. Users can find details about accessible amenities, parking, restrooms, and other features that cater to individuals with disabilities.
Availability and Cost
The Recreation.gov app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It can be downloaded for free from the respective app stores. The app itself is free to use, but there may be fees associated with making reservations or obtaining permits and passes for specific recreational activities.
HipCamp App
Hipcamp is a popular app and website that connects people with unique outdoor accommodations and camping experiences. It offers a diverse range of camping options, including campsites, glamping sites, RV parks, and private land rentals. Here’s an overview of the key features and information about the Hipcamp app:
Campsite Discovery: Hipcamp allows users to search for and discover campsites based on location, activities, amenities, and specific interests. Users can explore a wide variety of options, including public and private campgrounds, farm stays, vineyard stays, and more.
Unique Accommodations: In addition to traditional campsites, Hipcamp offers unique and alternative accommodations such as cabins, yurts, treehouses, Airstreams, and other glamping options. These unique stays provide users with memorable outdoor experiences.
Private Land Rentals: One of the distinguishing features of Hipcamp is its offering of private land rentals. This allows landowners to offer their properties for camping, providing users with access to exclusive and remote camping locations.
Property Listings: Hipcamp enables landowners to list their properties and make them available for camping. It provides tools and resources for landowners to create and manage their listings, including setting availability, pricing, and rules for campers.
User Reviews and Ratings: Users can read reviews and ratings from fellow campers to make informed decisions about their camping experiences. The app’s review system includes feedback on campsites, hosts, amenities, and overall experiences shared by the Hipcamp community.
Booking and Reservations: Hipcamp allows users to book campsites and accommodations directly through the app. Users can view real-time availability, compare prices, and secure their reservations with ease.
Trip Planning and Itineraries: The app offers trip planning features that enable users to create itineraries and save favorite campsites and accommodations. It helps users organize their outdoor adventures and keep track of their planned trips.
Community and Social Features: Hipcamp fosters a community of outdoor enthusiasts. Users can connect with other campers, share experiences, and participate in discussions. The app also provides a platform for landowners and campers to communicate and address any questions or concerns.
Filters and Advanced Search: The app provides advanced search filters, allowing users to refine their search based on specific criteria such as pet-friendly accommodations, accessibility, amenities, and more. This helps users find camping options that best suit their preferences and needs.
Availability and Cost
The Hipcamp app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It can be downloaded for free from the respective app stores. While the app itself is free to use, the cost of booking campsites or accommodations through Hipcamp varies depending on the individual listings and their associated fees set by the hosts.
iOverlander App
iOverlander is a popular app and website that serves as a community-driven resource for travelers and overlanders, providing information about camping spots, services, and points of interest around the world.
It is designed to assist road trippers, RVers, and adventure travelers in finding suitable places to stay, such as campsites, wild camping spots, parking areas, and more.
Key Features
Here’s an overview of the key features and information about the iOverlander app:
Camping and Points of Interest: iOverlander provides a comprehensive database of camping spots and points of interest contributed by fellow travellers. Users can search for specific locations or browse the interactive map to discover campsites, parking areas, fuel stations, water sources, dump stations, border crossings, and other services relevant to overlanding and road trips.
User-Generated Content: The app relies on user contributions, allowing travellers to share their experiences, add new locations, and update information about existing spots. This community-driven approach ensures that the database remains up-to-date and provides reliable information for fellow travellers.
Information and Amenities: Each location entry in iOverlander includes detailed information such as coordinates, descriptions, amenities available (e.g., toilets, showers, Wi-Fi), vehicle suitability, camping fees (if applicable), and user comments. This information helps travellers make informed decisions about where to stay and what to expect at each location.
Offline Access and Maps: iOverlander offers offline access, allowing users to download maps and location data for offline use. This is particularly useful when traveling in remote areas with limited or no internet connectivity. The app also supports various map layers, including topographic maps, satellite imagery, and OpenStreetMap data.
Reviews and Ratings: Users can read and contribute reviews and ratings for locations, sharing their feedback on the quality, safety, and overall experience at each spot. This helps travellers assess the suitability of a location and make informed choices.
Filtering and Sorting: The app provides filtering and sorting options to help users find specific types of locations. Users can filter by amenities, vehicle suitability, user ratings, and more, allowing for customized searches based on individual preferences and requirements.
Trip Planning and Itineraries: iOverlander offers trip planning features, allowing users to create itineraries, save favourite locations, and organize their travel routes. This helps travellers plan their journeys and keep track of the spots they want to visit along the way.
International Coverage: iOverlander covers locations worldwide, making it a valuable resource for travellers exploring different countries and continents. The app’s extensive database allows users to find camping spots and services across various regions and terrains.
Availability and Cost
The iOverlander app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It can be downloaded for free from the respective app stores. The app itself is free to use, and there are no subscription fees associated with accessing its core features.
It’s important to note that while the information provided here is accurate as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, it’s recommended to visit the official iOverlander website or consult the latest information available through app stores or online resources for the most up-to-date and accurate details about the iOverlander app and its features.
Freecampsites.net
Freecampsites.net is a website and online community that provides information and resources for finding free camping and boondocking locations in the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world. The platform relies on user-generated content to compile a database of free or low-cost campsites, helping travelers and outdoor enthusiasts find budget-friendly camping options.
Key Features
Here are the key features and information about Freecampsites.net:
Free Camping Database: Freecampsites.net offers a comprehensive database of free camping locations, including public lands, national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, and other dispersed camping spots. Users can search for campsites based on location, browse interactive maps, and explore different regions.
User-Generated Content: The website relies on contributions from the camping community, with users adding new campsites and updating information about existing locations. This community-driven approach ensures that the database remains up-to-date and provides valuable insights and firsthand experiences from fellow campers.
Campsite Listings: Each campsite listing on Freecampsites.net includes detailed information such as coordinates, descriptions, access directions, amenities (e.g., toilets, fire pits, picnic tables), and user reviews. Users can access this information to evaluate the suitability of a campsite and make informed decisions.
Interactive Maps: The website provides interactive maps that allow users to visualize camping locations and filter results based on specific criteria. The maps can be customized to display different types of camping areas, including free campsites, paid campsites, and public lands.
User Reviews and Ratings: Users can read and contribute reviews and ratings for campsites, sharing their experiences, and providing insights for other campers. This helps travellers assess the quality, safety, and suitability of each location before deciding to camp there.
Filtering and Sorting: Freecampsites.net offers filtering and sorting options to help users narrow down their search based on various criteria such as state, amenities, elevation, and camping type (e.g., RV, tent, car camping). These features assist users in finding camping spots that meet their specific needs and preferences.
Trip Planning and Itineraries: The website provides tools for users to create itineraries, save favourite campsites, and plan their camping trips. Users can organize their routes, track their progress, and explore potential campsites along their journey.
International Coverage: While Freecampsites.net primarily focuses on free camping in the United States and Canada, it also includes information about free camping options in other countries. The website’s global coverage makes it a valuable resource for travellers seeking affordable camping opportunities worldwide.
Availability and Cost
Freecampsites.net is a free resource accessible to anyone with internet access. The website does not require a paid subscription or membership to access its core features. Users can visit the website and search for free camping locations at no cost.
Campendium App
Campendium is a popular camping and RVing app and website that provides a comprehensive platform for finding and reviewing campgrounds and RV parks across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It caters to a wide range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, boondocking, and more.
Key Features
Here is an overview of the key features and information about the Campendium app:
Campground and RV Park Search: Campendium allows users to search for campgrounds and RV parks based on location, amenities, activities, and user reviews. Users can explore various types of camping options, including public campgrounds, private RV parks, and off-grid camping areas.
User Reviews and Ratings: The app features a robust user review system, where campers can share their experiences and provide ratings for campgrounds and RV parks. These reviews offer valuable insights into the quality, amenities, and overall camping experience at each location.
Campsite Listings: Each campsite listing on Campendium includes detailed information such as photos, descriptions, facilities, fees, contact information, and user comments. This information helps users evaluate and compare different campgrounds to make informed decisions.
Interactive Maps: The app offers interactive maps that allow users to visualize camping locations, browse nearby attractions, and filter results based on specific criteria. Users can customize map layers to display different types of campgrounds, such as public lands, national parks, or private campgrounds.
Filtering and Sorting: Campendium provides filtering and sorting options to help users narrow down their search based on various criteria, such as price, amenities, accessibility, and camping types (e.g., RV, tent, boondocking). These features make it easier for users to find campgrounds that meet their specific needs and preferences.
Trip Planning and Itineraries: The app offers trip planning tools, allowing users to create itineraries, save favorite campgrounds, and plan their camping trips. Users can organize their routes, track their progress, and explore potential campsites along their journey.
Connectivity and Cell Coverage: Campendium provides information about cellular connectivity and cell coverage at campgrounds and RV parks. Users can find details on the availability of Wi-Fi, cell phone signal strength, and carriers that work in specific locations.
Additional Features: The app includes additional features such as dump stations, rest areas, and overnight parking options. It also allows users to submit new campgrounds, update information about existing listings, and contribute photos and reviews to help improve the database.
Availability and Cost
The Campendium app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It can be downloaded for free from the respective app stores.
While the app itself is free to use, Campendium also offers a Campendium+ subscription, which provides enhanced features such as offline access to maps, advanced search filters, and additional map overlays. The Campendium+ subscription is available on a monthly or annual basis.
Harvest Hosts App
Harvest Hosts is a membership program and app that provides access to unique camping experiences at farms, wineries, breweries, and other attractions across North America.
It offers RVers and self-contained travellers the opportunity to stay overnight at participating locations in exchange for supporting local businesses.
Key Features
Unique Camping Locations: Harvest Hosts offers a wide range of overnight camping locations, including wineries, breweries, farms, museums, golf courses, and more. These locations are typically in scenic areas and provide a unique and memorable camping experience.
Membership Program: Harvest Hosts operates as a membership program. Members pay an annual fee, granting them access to stay at participating locations across North America. The membership covers overnight stays, but additional purchases from the host locations, such as wine or farm products, are encouraged.
Interactive Map and Search: The app provides an interactive map and search functionality, allowing members to find nearby participating locations. Users can search by location, amenities, or specific types of attractions, making it easy to plan trips and discover new destinations.
Location Details: Each location listing on the app includes important information such as contact details, amenities available (e.g., electric hookups, water, Wi-Fi), pet policies, and any specific rules or requirements for overnight stays. This information helps members plan their visits and understand what to expect at each location.
Reviews and Ratings: Harvest Hosts encourages members to leave reviews and ratings for the locations they visit, sharing their experiences and providing feedback for other members. This helps ensure the quality and reliability of the participating locations.
Trip Planning: The app offers trip planning features that allow members to create itineraries, save favourite locations, and plan their camping routes. Users can organize their stays, track their progress, and explore potential Harvest Hosts destinations along their journey.
Additional Features: In addition to the main Harvest Hosts program, the app provides information about nearby attractions, local events, and other points of interest to enhance the camping experience. Members can also access exclusive discounts and deals from participating host locations.
Availability and Cost: The Harvest Hosts app is available for both iOS and Android devices. The app itself is free to download, but it requires a membership to access the full functionality and stay at participating locations. The annual membership fee allows unlimited overnight stays at the participating locations and includes access to the app’s features.
What Should You Look for when Choosing a Campervan App?
When choosing a campervan app, there are several factors to consider to ensure it meets your needs and enhances your campervan trip experience. Here are some key things to look for:
User Reviews and Ratings: Check user reviews and ratings of the app to get an understanding of its reliability, usability, and overall user satisfaction. Consider feedback regarding the app’s features, accuracy of information, and customer support.
Comprehensive Database: Ensure the app has a comprehensive database of campgrounds, RV parks, and other relevant locations. It should cover a wide range of destinations, providing options that suit your preferences and travel plans.
Detailed Information: The app should provide detailed information about each campground or location, including amenities, pricing, contact details, user reviews, and photos. The more comprehensive and accurate the information, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions.
Offline Access: Look for an app that offers offline access, allowing you to access maps, campground details, and other important information even when you don’t have an internet connection. This is especially helpful when traveling to remote areas with limited connectivity.
Navigation and Routing: If you’ll be driving a campervan, consider apps that offer navigation and routing features specifically designed for larger vehicles. These features should account for factors such as vehicle height, weight restrictions, and appropriate road types.
Trip Planning and Itinerary Management: Choose an app that enables you to plan your campervan trip by creating itineraries, saving favourite locations, and organizing your travel routes. This helps you stay organized and make the most of your time on the road.
User-Friendly Interface: Look for an app with a user-friendly interface that is intuitive and easy to navigate. A well-designed interface ensures a smooth user experience and allows you to quickly access the information you need.
Real-Time Updates: Consider apps that provide real-time updates, such as campground availability, weather information, and road conditions. These updates keep you informed and help you adapt your plans accordingly.
Additional Features: Assess any additional features offered by the app that may enhance your campervan trip. This could include features like campervan maintenance tips, connectivity options, local services and amenities, or entertainment options.
Compatibility and Support: Check if the app is compatible with your device’s operating system (iOS or Android) and ensure that it receives regular updates and technical support to address any issues that may arise.
By considering these factors, you can select a campervan app that aligns with your needs and preferences, providing you with a reliable and helpful tool for your campervan adventures.
5 Amazing Campervan Routes from Canada and the USA
Get inspired for your next journey.
Pacific Coast Highway (USA)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as California State Route 1, offers stunning coastal scenery along the west coast of the United States.
Start in California’s San Francisco Bay Area and drive south through Big Sur, where you’ll encounter rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches, and panoramic ocean views.
Continue south to Los Angeles and explore the vibrant city life before reaching San Diego. This route is perfect for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Icefields Parkway (Canada)
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, stretches from Jasper National Park to Banff National Park, offering jaw-dropping mountain scenery, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.
Drive through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Athabasca Glacier, Peyto Lake, and Lake Louise. This route is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts, as you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife and embark on unforgettable hiking trails.
Historic Route 66 (USA)
Follow the legendary Route 66, a historic highway that stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This iconic road trip takes you through diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and iconic Americana.
Experience the nostalgia of classic diners, roadside attractions, and historic landmarks along the way. From the rolling plains of the Midwest to the deserts of the Southwest, Route 66 offers a unique blend of history, culture, and Americana.
Cabot Trail (Canada)
The Cabot Trail is a scenic drive in Nova Scotia, Canada, that loops around the northern part of Cape Breton Island.
This route offers breathtaking coastal views, rugged cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, and the stunning Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Explore charming towns such as Baddeck, Ingonish, and Chéticamp, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and sampling fresh seafood.
The Cabot Trail is a fantastic choice for those seeking maritime beauty and cultural experiences.
Great River Road (USA)
The Great River Road follows the course of the Mississippi River, stretching from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route takes you through a mix of scenic landscapes, historic sites, and charming river towns.
Explore cities like Minneapolis, St. Louis, and New Orleans, and witness the mighty Mississippi River and its surrounding beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and flavors of the American South while enjoying the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.
These campervan routes offer a wide range of stunning scenery, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.
Whether you prefer coastal drives, mountain vistas, historic landmarks, or charming towns, there is something for everyone on these unforgettable journeys.
