Music festivals are magical experiences, but camping in a tent for 3-4 days? That's where the magic can fade quickly. RV camping at festivals offers the best of both worlds: you're in the heart of the action with a comfortable bed, air conditioning, your own bathroom, and a place to escape when you need a break. This guide covers everything you need to know about renting an RV for your next festival.
Why RV Camping Beats Tent Camping at Festivals
Real Sleep
A real bed with AC means you actually sleep at night. No more waking up in a sweat-soaked tent at 7am because it's already 90 degrees.
Your Own Bathroom
Skip the porta-potty lines. Your RV has a private bathroom with a shower. That alone is worth the price of admission.
Home Base
Store your stuff securely, charge devices, make food, take a nap between sets. Your RV is your festival headquarters.
Social Hub
Your RV becomes the meet-up spot for your crew. Outdoor awning, chairs, and space to host pre-parties and after-parties.
Festival-by-Festival RV Guide
Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival
Indio, California • April • 2 Weekends
RV Camping Options
- • Lot 4 - Standard RV camping
- • Lot 5 - Premium spots closer to venue
- • Must purchase RV camping pass
Key Details
- • Max RV length: 40 feet
- • No hookups (generators needed)
- • Passes: $950-$1,500+
Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
Manchester, Tennessee • June • 4 Days
RV Camping Options
- • Standard RV - The Farm camping
- • Premium RV - Closer access
- • Power hookups available (extra)
Key Details
- • Known for great community vibe
- • Hot weather - AC is crucial
- • Passes: $700-$1,200
Stagecoach Country Music Festival
Indio, California • April • 3 Days
RV Camping Options
- • Same venue as Coachella
- • Country music = bigger RV culture
- • More RV-friendly atmosphere
Key Details
- • Tailgating heavily encouraged
- • Similar setup to Coachella
- • Passes: $850-$1,200
Electric Forest
Rothbury, Michigan • June • 4 Days
RV Camping Options
- • Back 40 RV area
- • Good Vibes Village premium area
- • Power hookups in select areas
Key Details
- • Beautiful forest setting
- • Strong RV community
- • Passes: $500-$900
Festival RV Rental Costs
The total cost of RV festival camping includes the rental, camping pass, and extras. Here's a breakdown:
| RV Type | Per Night | 4-Day Festival | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class B (Camper Van) | $150-$250 | $600-$1,000 | 1-2 people, easy to drive |
| Class C (Mid-size) | $200-$300 | $800-$1,200 | 2-4 people, good balance |
| Class A (Full-size) | $300-$500 | $1,200-$2,000 | 4-6 people, max comfort |
| Travel Trailer | $100-$200 | $400-$800 | Budget option, need tow vehicle |
Pro Tip: Split the Cost
An RV that sleeps 4-6 people can be split among your crew. A $1,500 rental split 4 ways is just $375 per person - often comparable to or cheaper than a hotel, and you're right at the festival.
How to Rent an RV for a Festival
Festival RV Delivery Services
Companies like EventFleetRV deliver RVs directly to festivals, fully set up and ready to go. You fly in, and your RV is waiting. After the festival, you leave and we handle pickup.
Traditional RV Rentals
Companies like Cruise America, El Monte, and local dealers let you pick up and drive the RV yourself. Best if you enjoy the road trip aspect or are already near the festival location.
Peer-to-Peer Platforms
Outdoorsy and RVshare let you rent from individual owners. Wide selection but carefully check reviews and policies. Some owners deliver; many require self-pickup.
Festival RV Packing List
RV Essentials
- • Generator (if no hookups) + fuel
- • Heavy-duty extension cords
- • Water hose and pressure regulator
- • Leveling blocks
- • Extra RV toilet paper
- • Holding tank treatment
- • Tool kit for minor repairs
Comfort Items
- • Portable AC unit or fans
- • String lights for ambiance
- • Outdoor rug for entry area
- • Canopy/awning for shade
- • Camping chairs
- • Bluetooth speaker
- • Cooler with wheels
Festival Survival
- • Sunscreen (lots of it)
- • Earplugs for sleeping
- • Portable phone chargers
- • Comfortable walking shoes
- • Bandanas/face covering (dust)
- • First aid kit
- • Electrolyte drinks/packets
Food & Drinks
- • Easy breakfast foods
- • Sandwich fixings
- • Snacks (protein bars, fruit)
- • Plenty of water
- • Ice (plan for restocking)
- • Your favorite beverages
- • Paper plates and utensils
Pro Tips for Festival RV Camping
Book Ridiculously Early
For major festivals, book your RV rental as soon as you buy tickets - 4-6 months out is ideal. RV inventory gets snapped up fast, especially for Coachella, Bonnaroo, and Stagecoach.
Arrive Early to Claim Your Spot
Most festivals have first-come-first-served RV camping. Arriving early gets you better positioning - closer to entrances, better neighbors, more space for your setup.
Plan for Power
Most festival RV areas don't have hookups. Bring a quality generator and enough fuel. Run it during the day when people are at stages, be respectful during quiet hours.
Decorate Your Rig
Tapestries, flags, and string lights help you find your RV in a sea of similar rigs. Plus, it adds to the festival atmosphere and helps you meet neighbors.
Pace Yourself
Multi-day festivals are marathons. Your RV gives you the option to take real breaks, nap during afternoon sets, and stay out for late-night without crashing in a tent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent an RV for a music festival?
Festival RV rentals typically range from $150-$400 per night depending on the RV size and festival. A 4-day festival weekend might cost $600-$2,000 for the RV rental alone, plus camping fees which vary by festival ($200-$1,000+).
Can I rent an RV delivered to Coachella?
Yes, many RV rental companies offer delivery to Coachella and other major festivals. Fleet services like EventFleetRV specialize in festival deliveries, handling setup so you can arrive and start enjoying the festival immediately.
Do I need a special license to drive an RV to a festival?
In most US states, you can drive an RV with a standard driver's license as long as it's under 26,000 lbs. However, many festival-goers opt for delivery services to avoid the stress of driving and parking a large RV.
What festivals allow RV camping?
Many major festivals offer RV camping including Coachella, Bonnaroo, Stagecoach, Electric Forest, Burning Man, ACL, Outside Lands, and countless regional events. Each festival has specific RV camping rules and pass requirements.
How early should I book an RV for a festival?
Book 3-6 months in advance for major festivals. Popular events like Coachella and Bonnaroo cause RV inventory to sell out quickly. Some festival-goers book immediately after securing their festival tickets.
Sarah Chen
Client Success Manager
Sarah specializes in corporate and production client relationships, ensuring seamless RV fleet experiences from initial planning through event completion. She has managed hospitality programs for major film studios and Fortune 100 brands.
Ready for Festival Season?
Let us handle the RV logistics so you can focus on the music. We deliver and set up, you enjoy the festival.
