EVs and the Great Outdoors
Electric vehicles and camping might seem like an unlikely combination, but they're actually a perfect match. EVs run silently, produce no tailpipe emissions at camp, and many have features designed for outdoor adventures.
This guide covers how to take your EV camping, from charging strategies to the best adventure-ready EVs.
Charging Options for Campers
RV Parks and Campgrounds
The Easiest Option
Most developed campgrounds have electrical hookups designed for RVs—and they work perfectly for EVs.
RV Outlet Types:
| Outlet | Voltage | Amps | EV Charging Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20A Standard | 120V | 20A | ~4 mph range |
| 30A TT-30 | 120V | 30A | ~8 mph range |
| 50A 14-50 | 240V | 50A | ~30-35 mph range |
What You Need:
- Portable Level 2 charger (EVSE) with 14-50 plug
- Or adapters for different outlets
- Campground reservation at site with hookups
Portable EV Chargers for Camping
Recommended Portable Chargers:
Budget:
- Lectron 240V Portable: ~$200
- Basic 16A portable: ~$150
Mid-Range:
- Grizzl-E Classic Portable: ~$400
- ChargePoint Home Flex (portable mode): ~$550
Premium:
- Tesla Mobile Connector: ~$200 (Tesla only)
- Clipper Creek HCS-40P: ~$500
Features to Look For:
- Multiple outlet adapters
- Weather resistance
- Reasonable cable length (25ft+)
- Carrying case
National Park Charging
Current State:
National Parks are adding EV charging, but coverage is limited:
- Destination chargers: Some parks have Level 2
- Gateway towns: Charging often available nearby
- Major parks: Yosemite, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon have some infrastructure
Strategy:
- Charge in gateway towns before entering
- Use campground hookups when available
- Plan for limited charging inside parks
- Arrive with high state of charge
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Your Mobile Power Station
Some EVs can power external devices directly:
EVs with V2L:
- Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Kia EV6/EV9
- Ford F-150 Lightning
- Rivian R1T/R1S
- Genesis GV60
Camping Uses:
- Power camping gear (lights, fans, coolers)
- Charge devices
- Run small appliances
- Emergency home backup
V2L Output: Typically 1.9-3.6 kW continuous
Note: Using V2L does drain your driving battery—balance convenience with range needs.
Best EVs for Camping and Adventures
Top Picks
1. Rivian R1T/R1S
- Purpose-built for adventure
- Gear Tunnel for storage
- Camp Mode with climate control
- V2L capability
- Off-road capable
2. Ford F-150 Lightning
- Massive frunk storage
- Pro Power Onboard (9.6 kW!)
- Familiar truck capability
- Great for towing (affects range)
3. Hyundai Ioniq 5
- V2L standard
- Fast charging
- Roomy interior for sleeping
- Good ground clearance
4. Tesla Model Y
- Large cargo area
- Camp Mode
- Excellent range
- Best charging network
5. Kia EV9
- Three-row SUV space
- V2L capability
- Impressive range
Camping Features to Look For
- Camp Mode: Climate control while parked/sleeping
- V2L: Power external devices
- Large cargo: Room for gear
- Long range: Reach remote destinations
- Fast charging: Less time at chargers
- Ground clearance: Access unpaved campgrounds
Planning an EV Camping Trip
Pre-Trip Planning
Step 1: Map Your Route
- Identify charging stops along the way
- Note charging options at/near campground
- Plan for reduced range (mountain driving, AC use)
Step 2: Reserve Strategic Campsites
- Look for sites with electrical hookups
- Full hookup sites often have 50A outlets
- Book early for popular campgrounds
Step 3: Gather Charging Equipment
- Portable EVSE
- Outlet adapters (TT-30, 14-50, etc.)
- Extension cord (outdoor rated, heavy gauge)
Example Trip Plan
Destination: Yosemite National Park, 5 days
Day 1: Drive In
- Leave home fully charged
- DC fast charge en route (30 min)
- Arrive at campground with 50%+ battery
Days 2-4: Explore
- Use campground 50A hookup overnight
- Full charge each morning
- Day trips to park attractions
- Return and plug in each evening
Day 5: Drive Out
- Leave with full charge
- DC fast charge on return journey
Keys to Success:
- Campground with hookup eliminates charging stress
- Each morning starts "full"
- Day trips are within range
Tips for EV Camping
1. Use Camp Mode for Comfort
Most EVs have a "Camp Mode" that:
- Runs climate control indefinitely
- Keeps screens/entertainment on
- Disables auto-shutoff
Perfect for:
- Sleeping in your EV
- Keeping cool on hot days
- Staying warm in cold weather
2. Bring the Right Adapters
Essential Adapter Kit:
- NEMA 14-50 (main charger plug)
- NEMA 5-15 (standard 120V)
- TT-30 to 14-50 adapter (RV 30A)
- 14-30 to 14-50 adapter (dryer outlet)
3. Communicate with Campgrounds
When booking, ask:
- What electrical hookups are available?
- Which sites have 50A service?
- Any EV charging restrictions?
Most campgrounds are accommodating—EVs draw less than large RVs.
4. Maximize Efficiency in Nature
Range-Preserving Tips:
- Pre-condition before leaving campground
- Drive smoothly on mountain roads
- Minimize A/C use (open windows at low speeds)
- Avoid excessive idling with climate on
5. Have a Backup Plan
Even with planning, things happen:
- Know where nearest DC fast charger is
- Have a way to get towed to a charger if needed
- Roadside assistance that covers EVs
Solar Charging: Is It Practical?
The Honest Answer: Solar charging an EV is technically possible but not practical for most camping.
The Math:
- Typical portable solar panel: 100W
- Sunshine hours: 4-6/day
- Daily energy: 400-600 Wh
- Range added: ~1.5-2 miles
Better Use of Solar:
- Power camp devices directly
- Charge phones/batteries
- Keep EV's 12V battery topped off
If You Want Solar EV Charging:
- Large rooftop array (500W+)
- Extended stays (weeks, not days)
- Supplement to grid/outlet charging
Boondocking with an EV
Boondocking = Camping without hookups
EV Considerations:
- Arrive with high state of charge
- Minimize climate control use
- Plan shorter stays
- Know your nearest charging option
V2L Advantage: EVs with V2L can power camp equipment while parked, making boondocking more comfortable.
Reality Check: Boondocking for extended periods requires either:
- Very large battery
- Willingness to leave for charging
- Combination with solar (days of range extension only)
Common EV Camping Mistakes
Mistake 1: Arriving at campground with low battery and no hookup
Mistake 2: Not bringing appropriate adapters
Mistake 3: Underestimating energy use for climate control
Mistake 4: Not checking campground electrical policies
Mistake 5: Planning routes without identifying charging stops
Conclusion
EV camping combines the best of electric driving with outdoor adventure:
- RV parks are your friend—50A hookups = fast overnight charging
- Portable EVSE is essential camping gear
- Camp Mode enables comfortable sleeping/resting in your EV
- V2L-equipped EVs can power your entire camp setup
- Plan ahead and you'll have a seamless experience
The key is preparation. With the right equipment and planning, EV camping is not just possible—it's often superior to gas vehicle camping thanks to features like climate control and quiet operation.
Use ChargeFind to map charging options along your camping route and at your destination. Happy trails!