Harvest Hosts is a membership program that connects self-contained RV travelers with businesses such as wineries, breweries, farms and attractions that allow overnight parking. Instead of paying a campground fee, members are encouraged to support the host by buying products or experiences.
This guide explains how the program generally works, based on its publicly described model. It is not a hands-on review, and we have no affiliation with the company. Membership features, prices and policies change, so check the company’s current terms before joining.
How It Works
Membership
Members pay an annual fee for access to the host directory. Different membership tiers may include additional locations, such as golf courses.
Finding Hosts
Members search hosts by location and see details such as RV size limits, number of spaces, amenities and rules.
Requesting Stays
Members request stays through the app or website. Hosts approve requests according to their availability.
Staying
Members arrive during posted hours, park in designated areas and stay for the permitted time, often one night.
Supporting Hosts
Members are encouraged to support hosts by buying wine, produce or tours. This is a key part of the program.
RV Requirements
Stays are typically for self-contained RVs, meaning the RV has its own toilet and water and does not need hookups. Requirements vary, so check current rules for your vehicle type, including vans and tents.
What Stays Are Like
- Typically no hookups
- Parking may be on grass, gravel or pavement
- Spaces may be limited
- Quiet rural settings are common
- Arrival and departure times vary
Plan for boondocking. See the boondocking power guide.
Etiquette
- Request stays in advance
- Arrive and depart during the host’s specified hours
- Support the host’s business
- Keep noise low
- Do not set up camp chairs or awnings unless allowed
- Leave no trace
- Leave reviews to help other members
See campground etiquette.
Potential Benefits
- Unique overnight locations
- Supports small businesses
- Can reduce reliance on campgrounds
- Useful for overnight stops along routes
Potential Drawbacks
- Membership fee
- No hookups
- Limited stay length
- Spaces may be limited or uneven
- Expectations to purchase may add cost
- Availability varies by region
Who It May Suit
- Self-contained RVers who enjoy local businesses
- Travelers looking for overnight stops
- RVers comfortable without hookups
Who May Prefer Other Options
- RVers who need hookups nightly
- Those who prefer long stays at one location
- Travelers on tight budgets who do not want to buy products
Alternatives
- Public campgrounds
- Private campgrounds
- Public lands that allow dispersed camping, following rules
- Other membership programs
Deciding Whether to Join
Consider your route, how often you need overnight stops, whether hosts are in regions you travel and whether the membership fee makes sense for your travel frequency.
Questions to Ask Before Joining
- Are there hosts along my route?
- Does my RV meet requirements?
- What is the current fee and renewal policy?
- What are cancellation and change rules?
Common Mistakes
- Arriving without requesting a stay
- Treating stays like full campgrounds
- Not supporting hosts
- Ignoring size limits
- Running generators without permission
How a Typical Stay Might Unfold
A member planning a route might search for hosts near a midpoint, read each listing’s notes about RV length, parking surface and check-in times, and send a request a few days ahead. On arrival, they would park in the designated spot, say hello to the host, perhaps buy a bottle of wine or a bag of produce and spend a quiet evening before leaving in the morning. Listings and member reviews often describe what to expect, such as gravel lots, nearby animals or early farm noise.
Comparison with Other Overnight Options
| Option | Hookups | Cost model | Typical stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Membership host | Usually none | Annual fee plus support for host | Often one night |
| Public campground | Varies | Nightly fee | Varies |
| Private campground | Often full | Nightly fee | Flexible |
| Dispersed camping on public land | None | Often free, with rules | Limited by local rules |
A Note on Reading Host Listings
Read each listing carefully. Note RV length limits, whether generators are allowed, pet policies, whether the parking area is level and any instructions for arrival. Some hosts close on certain days. If something is unclear, ask through the official messaging tools rather than showing up unannounced.
Starting Small
If you are curious, look at the host map for your planned route before buying a membership. If many hosts appear where you travel, the program may be a good fit. If not, other overnight options may serve you better.
A Note on Being Self-Contained
Being self-contained means you can stay comfortably overnight without hookups or facilities. Arrive with empty holding tanks, enough fresh water and charged batteries, so you can enjoy the stay without needing services the host may not provide.
Final Pre-Arrival Check
- Stay request confirmed
- Arrival window noted
- Tanks emptied and water filled
- Batteries charged
A Note on Reviews
After a stay, member reviews help others know what to expect, such as how level the parking was or how welcoming the host was. Keep reviews factual and fair, and remember that hosts are small businesses opening their property to travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Harvest Hosts?
A membership program for overnight RV stays at host businesses.
Do I have to buy something?
Members are encouraged to support hosts.
Are there hookups?
Typically no.
Can vans stay?
Check current requirements.
Is it worth it?
It depends on how often you would use it.
The Bottom Line
Harvest Hosts offers overnight stays at wineries, farms and other businesses for self-contained RVs. Review current terms, check hosts along your route, follow etiquette and support hosts.
Editorial note: Campervanly is independent and reader-supported. This guide is based on research into manufacturer documentation, published specifications and widely accepted best practices; we have not been paid to mention any product. If we add affiliate links in the future, they will be clearly disclosed per our Affiliate Disclosure.