Ah, the great outdoors—fresh air, stunning views, and the sweet, sweet sound of your neighbor’s generator humming at 6 AM. If you’re an RVer, you know that finding a peaceful, uncrowded campsite can feel like winning the lottery.

That’s why we asked our readers in a recent newsletter poll: “Do you have a strategy for avoiding crowded campgrounds?” The responses were… well, let’s just say “strategic” isn’t the word we’d use to describe most of you.

Before we dive into the hilarious (and slightly concerning) results, don’t forget to vote in our next poll so your voice can be heard—because clearly, some of us need all the help we can get!

The Results Are In—Prepare to Facepalm

Drumroll, please… 

  • 83% of you said NO, you don’t have a strategy for avoiding crowded campgrounds,
  • While a mere 17% confidently voted YES.

That means the vast majority of RVers are out there playing campsite roulette, rolling the dice, and hoping they don’t end up sandwiched between a family reunion and a guy who thinks 2 AM is the perfect time to practice his banjo skills.

Why “Winging It” Might Not Be the Best Strategy

Let’s be real—if your campground avoidance plan consists of “drive around until I find a spot and pray,” you’re basically living on the edge. Sure, spontaneity is fun… until you’re stuck in a parking-lot-style RV park where your “scenic view” is your neighbor’s sewer hose. The 17% of strategic campers are probably sipping coffee in their secluded, pre-booked paradise while the rest of us fight over the last 30-amp hookup.

The Secret Tactics of the 17%

What dark magic do these elusive “planners” possess? Here are a few tricks they might be using:

  • Booking off-season (because nothing says “peace and quiet” like a campground in February).
  • Scouting lesser-known public lands (where the only crowds are the deer judging your campfire cooking).
  • Arriving on weekdays (while the rest of us are stuck in weekend warrior traffic).

Conclusion: Why Most RVers Don’t Have a Plan (And Why They Should)

So why did 83% of respondents admit to having no strategy? We have a few theories:

  1. Optimism Bias – “It won’t be THAT busy…” (Famous last words.)
  2. Last-Minute RVers – Some folks live for the thrill of the unknown (and the pain of full campgrounds).
  3. Denial – Maybe if we ignore the problem, it’ll go away? (Spoiler: It won’t.)

The truth is, avoiding crowds takes effort—but the payoff is huge. Imagine quiet mornings, spacious sites, and not having to make awkward small talk with strangers while dumping your tanks. If you’re in the 83%, maybe it’s time to steal a page from the 17%’s playbook. Or, you know, keep rolling the dice and hoping for the best. Either way, happy camping—may the odds be ever in your favor!

Don’t forget to vote in our next poll—your fellow RVers are counting on you (or at least laughing with you).