As a family of four who often boondocks, finding showers can sometimes be a challenge. While searching for easier ways to stay clean on the road, we discovered recreation centers—and they’ve opened up a world of possibilities! Many RVers use these centers during their travels to stay active, socialize, and take advantage of various amenities. Here are some reasons why we now always seek out recreation centers during our trips.
Public Showers and Restrooms
Although our RV has a bathroom with a shower, we often prefer the spacious, well-equipped facilities at recreation centers. This is the main reason we began seeking them out—looking for affordable, convenient showers without having to worry about water usage. These centers offer more than just showers, too. For a daily admission fee, you can enjoy a full day of activities!
Full-Day Access to Amenities
The admission fee at most recreation centers covers the entire day, so you can make the most of your visit. Many centers offer fitness areas, pools, waterslides, playgrounds, rock climbing walls, basketball and tennis courts, and even community events. We’ve visited several centers with waterslides and pools, which turn a simple shower stop into a fun family day.
Fitness and Exercise
Recreation centers typically have gym facilities, multiple swimming pools, and fitness classes that RVers can use to stay fit while traveling. This is especially helpful for those who don’t have space for exercise equipment in their RV. Many centers offer a wide variety of equipment, from cardio machines and free weights to specialized areas for strength training and stretching. In addition to traditional gym facilities, you’ll often find group fitness classes like yoga, spin, and aerobics, giving you the chance to try something new or maintain a regular fitness routine. Some centers even offer amenities like saunas, steam rooms, or hot tubs, which are perfect for relaxing and recovering after a workout. Having access to these facilities ensures that you can stay active and healthy, even while on the road.
Socializing
Recreation centers can even host group activities like sports leagues, fitness classes, or arts and crafts, creating opportunities for RVers to meet locals and other travelers. When we stayed in one place for a while, we even enrolled our boys in a cooking class at the local center. It cost a bit more than the admission fee, but it was worth it for the fun experience and the chance for them to meet other kids while learning a new skill.
Family Activities
For families traveling with kids, recreation centers provide a variety of child-friendly activities like swimming lessons, sports camps, and playgrounds. We’ve come across some centers with heated indoor pools, lazy rivers, splash pads, hot tubs, and even water obstacle courses, which are not just fun for the kids but for us adults, too!
Access to Technology
While boondocking, internet access can sometimes be spotty or nonexistent. Recreation centers often offer free Wi-Fi, computer stations, or workspaces, which can be invaluable for staying connected, working remotely, or ensuring the kids can do schoolwork online.
Special Events
Recreation centers may also host events like movie nights, community fairs, or holiday celebrations. These can be a fun way for RVers to engage with the local community, make new friends, and experience local culture. It’s a great way to get out of the RV and spend a day! Make sure to ask for an event calendar once you arrive to see all what’s going on!
How to Locate Recreation Centers
Finding recreation centers while traveling full-time in an RV is easier than you might think, thanks to a variety of tools and apps designed for travelers. One of the best resources is the iOverlander app, which is widely used by RVers to locate nearby campgrounds and other facilities, including recreation centers. The app provides detailed information, user reviews, and even photos to help you choose the best spot for your needs. In addition to iOverlander, you can use Google Maps to search for local recreation centers or ask locals for recommendations when you stop at campgrounds or visitor centers. Many RV parks also have partnerships with nearby rec centers, offering discounts and even free passes. Sometimes, just driving through a town, we’ll spot a recreation center and decide to stop in. By combining these resources, you can easily find recreation centers wherever your journey takes you.
Recreation Center Memberships
If you’re staying in one location for an extended period, a recreation center can provide a sense of routine and normalcy. With regular activities and a welcoming atmosphere, it can become a place you return to daily. Below are some average membership prices to give you an idea of what to expect.
Membership and Day Pass Costs
Many recreation centers offer day passes or short-term memberships, ideal for RVers who don’t need long-term commitments. We’ve found that most centers charge well under $10 per person, and as a family of four, we typically spend around $15 total for the day. This is an excellent deal considering it includes access to showers, the gym, swimming pools, and sports courts. For comparison, showers at travel centers or gas stations can cost that much per person! If you only need to use the showers and don’t plan on staying all day, some facilities even allow free shower access, especially if you’re just passing through. We’ve had a few centers graciously offer us free showers during our travels. Just be sure to bring your own towels! We love our fast drying travel towels for our rec center days!
Day Pass Prices:
- Child: $2.50–$4.50
- Adult: $4.50–$7.50
- Seniors: $3.00–$4.00
Monthly Membership Prices:
- Adult: $35–$45
- Child: $20–$30
- Family (of four): $55–$70
Be sure to ask for other discounts on drop in prices as well such as military, senior, and first responders.
In conclusion
Recreation centers greatly enhance the RVing experience by providing amenities and activities that perfectly complement the flexibility and freedom of life on the road. From unlimited hot showers to fun-filled family days packed with activities, they offer a welcoming atmosphere that turns a simple stop into a memorable experience for everyone. Whether you’re staying active, socializing, or just taking a break from the road, recreation centers offer the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and entertainment
