How Do Campgrounds Measure Trailer Length!

If you know a bit about the maximum trailer length part of campground then before joining one of them, you definitely will prioritize checking length of your trailer. And sometimes manufacturers have really confusing information about this length and height measurement. Most of them don’t have a proper explanation for this matter.

So, it’s best to find out how do campgrounds measure trailer length and try that formula yourself before going to the camp. That way you won’t face a situation where the whole trip basically got ruined. Because the trailer you decide to bring crosses maximum length restriction of your chosen campground. Keep On Reading…

How Do Campgrounds Measure Trailer Length To Try It.

Typically, a camper will have around three sets of measurements that you need to take. The internal space of your camper is the first one that you may need to find out.

Then there’s the exterior side of trailer that needs to be figured out. And finally, you take measurements of the camper combinedly with trailer that basically holds it. We are focusing on trailer length today.

But keep in mind, when you go for a camping trip with your camper, having all those measurements prior to the event will help you get a better towing experience as well as have an idea on where to park it.

How Do Campgrounds Measure Trailer Length To Try It

How To Measure Camping Trailer Length.

There are a few manners that can be implemented for measuring up a travel trailer. The first one involves you starting the measurement right from ball mount. And then you take it all the way to bumper’s back part.

While there are also records, that floor plan length is basically what refers to the advertised one. And in that case, the length measurement will exclude any rear bumper or toque calculations at all. For example, something that’s referred to as a 20 feet length trailer could be actually 23 to 24 feet overall.

First and foremost, you should figure out exactly what the measurements are done for. So that you can decide about which parts are going to get included in the final measurement. Right surrounding the tow hitch, cover of trailer should be easily fit. However, when you need to go for an RV campground, then considering tow hitch together for calculating complete length of trailer will become necessary.

Before starting the measurement, get yourself a tape measure. Then you want to locate the farthest part of back bumper that’s protruding. Simply hold tape measure’s one end right here in line.

Usually, the curved bumpers will have this part on the center point. Also, to make accurate measurements, you’ll need another person’s help. So, make sure your camp buddy or anyone who can lend a hand is there will you. Tell them to hold the tape for you at that rear bumper point.

Then you want to start stretching the measuring tape. It should go downwards the trailer’s cabinet length. Reach to the front bumper part. And you want to stop on the farthest protruding part here as well. Take note of the figure that you got. And that should be the length of your trailer. 

Campground Used Measurement. 

In campgrounds, sometimes you have to consider length from rear bumper to the tongue of your trailer. And that’s basically usable space length the authorities set for every trailer allowed. But then again, having somewhat off results for let say, 3-4 feet, isn’t very concerning. You probably still can bring it inside the campground.

However, if you are curious about the entire process in detail, here it is. You need to place your measuring tape’s one end to the part where trailer cabin basically meets tow hitch. Now if the front bumper crosses tow hitch’s beginning, then follow earlier style of starting from farthest protruding part.

Then stretch the tape out just like earlier and you want to bring it all way to tow hitch’s farthest point. Markdown if necessary. Some hitch comes with an upward angle. In that case, you must go for a straightforward extending measurement. Rather than the hitch’s whole length.

Now you have measurements for both the trailer hitch as well as trailer cabin. Simply add them and you’ll get the entire length of your trailer. This is the length that you usually need to confirm when making campground reservations. And more than often, people confuse it with the length-taking process for buying new covers, which I talked about in earlier phase.

Quick Note – It’s still recommended that you talk to the campground authority beforehand and ask them directly which length measurement method they accept.

Frequently Asked Question

What Is the Width of Most Travel Trailers?

Most travel trailers come with a width that does not exceed 8 feet 5 inches because most states won’t allow anything more than that. However, it can still differ and you should check with the manufacturer-provided detail to be more specifically aware of it.

What Is the Maximum Trailer Length For National Parks?

The max trailer length for campgrounds in national parks is not the same most of the time. It actually depends on the regulation of a specific park. However, one average length is around 27 feet. 

How Tall Are Most Travel Trailers?

This one also depends on which model you are referring to. On average, the height is almost 11 feet with maximum travel trailers. Then again, there are the ones that come with roof-mounted units of A/C. In such a case, the height will be even more. The maximum height for a travel trailer however is 13 feet 5 inches considering allowance on overpasses for highway purposes.

Wrap Up

Being concerned about how campgrounds measure trailer length is a common one if you have never visited before. I tried to give you some general methods of taking those measurements. However, it’s still best for you to be completely sure of the measurement process from your chosen campground’s authority.

In most case, you’ll get a good idea of this whole measuring scheme plus additional information that I’m sure will help you have a better experience overall.

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