Host an RV Campsite Party

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Let’s Party at the Campsite!

Remember when you could give a party for 20 in your dorm room? Hosting a crowd in a campsite, tailgate lot or infield is a snap by comparison.  Here’s how to have a whale of a party in a minnow-size space.

* First, check campground or park regulations. You may have to pay for or limit guests. Non-registered guests may not be permitted at all.  Observe campground quiet hours, generator rules, music or other noise regulations and rules regarding alcohol. 

* Know campground rules about children and pets. Some areas may be off limits to minors unless accompanied by an adult. 

Make use of disposables

* Consider bringing some rental some items such as folding chairs, folding tables, a big coffee urn and big coolers for ice and drinks. Buy inexpensive tarps to rig as awnings or sun flies. Stock up on disposable dinnerware, glasses and trash bags.

Provide a special space for kids, even if it's just a card table

* Set up several drink and food stations around the site so guests can easily serve themselves. Avoid clustering in one area. If possible, set up an area for kids.  .

* Let guests know locations of the park’s bathrooms, showers and changing rooms. Tell them to bring their own beach towels. 

* Everyone wants to help, but keep everyone outside your RV if possible. Have suitable stain treatments on hand for spills, especially on RV on your upholstery or carpeting. Once stains set, they’re impossible to remove. 

Bring a folding tent, shelter, beach umbrella

* Are your fire extinguishers up to date? 

* Plan a menu of finger foods: chips, dips, cookies, veggie sticks, fresh fruit. Mny RV parks have delivery from inside or outside. If you’re “ordering in” for the hot food, think of corn dogs, spring rolls, drumsticks, sweet potato fries.

* A kicky way to serve a big crowd is to make box lunches or nosebag lunches in advance. Use gaily colored paper bags or tie them in bandanas, hobo style. Classy sandwiches that don’t have to be kept cold include sharp cheddar with chutney and crisp bacon, cream cheese with jelly or olives, or provolone withy sliced tomato and sweet onion. Add a shiny apple, a packaged brownie, wet wipe and a napkin.  

* Lastly, be prepared for a thorough clean-up with plenty of trash bags and recycling bins or bags.