Parking on a perfectly flat site is rare. Most campsites slope at least a little, and an unlevel RV can mean doors that swing open, uncomfortable sleeping and, for some refrigerators, poor performance. Leveling blocks, ramps, jacks and wheel chocks help you set up safely and comfortably.
This guide explains leveling basics in general terms. Your RV manual is the authority on how to level, how to use jacks and stabilizers and what limits apply to your vehicle.
Why Leveling Matters
Comfort
Sleeping and walking on a slope is uncomfortable. Showers and sinks may not drain well.
Appliances
Some absorption refrigerators need to be reasonably level to work properly. Check your manual.
Doors and Slides
Doors and slide-outs work more smoothly when the RV is level and not twisted.
Safety
A stable, chocked RV is less likely to move.
Checking Level
- Place a bubble level on the floor or a counter, both side to side and front to back
- Some RVs have built-in level indicators
- Leveling apps can help, but verify with a physical level
Leveling Side to Side
Side-to-side leveling is usually done first by driving the low side’s wheels onto blocks or ramps.
Leveling Blocks
Interlocking plastic blocks can be stacked to different heights. Build a stable base, with the stack wider at the bottom. Drive slowly onto them with a spotter.
Curved Ramp Levelers
Curved ramps let you drive onto the ramp until the RV is level, then insert a chock to hold the wheel in place.
Boards
Some RVers use lumber, but boards can split or slide. Use solid, appropriately sized boards if you choose them.
Leveling Front to Back
Motorhomes
Some motorhomes have hydraulic or electric leveling jacks. Others use blocks under the front or rear wheels.
Travel Trailers
Trailers are leveled front to back using the tongue jack after unhitching, with wheels chocked first.
Fifth Wheels
Use landing gear to level front to back.
Wheel Chocks
Chocks keep wheels from rolling.
- Chock wheels before unhitching a trailer
- Chock on the downhill side, or both sides when unsure
- Use chocks sized for your tires
- Remove chocks before driving
Wheel chocks are important even for motorhomes in park, especially on slopes.
Stabilizers
Stabilizer jacks reduce bouncing and sway when you walk inside. They are not for lifting the RV unless your manual says otherwise. Use pads under stabilizers on soft ground.
Leveling Jacks
Automatic or manual leveling jacks can lift and level some motorhomes. Follow manual limits; lifting wheels off the ground may be prohibited on some systems. Use pads on soft ground.
Step-by-Step Example
- Choose your site and check slope
- Position the RV
- Check side-to-side level
- Place blocks or ramps under low-side tires
- Drive onto blocks slowly with a spotter
- Set parking brake or chock wheels
- Level front to back
- Deploy stabilizers
- Recheck level
Questions to Ask
- Does my RV have leveling jacks?
- What does my refrigerator require?
- What chocks fit my tires?
Common Mistakes
- Unhitching before chocking
- Using stabilizers to lift
- Stacking blocks unstably
- Forgetting chocks before leaving
- Skipping pads on soft ground
Comparison of Leveling Tools
| Tool | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stackable blocks | Most RVs | Build stable, pyramid-like stacks |
| Curved ramps | Trailers and smaller RVs | Insert chock once level |
| Leveling jacks | Equipped motorhomes | Follow manual limits |
| Stabilizers | Reducing movement | Not for lifting |
| Wheel chocks | All RVs | Remove before driving |
Choosing a Campsite with Leveling in Mind
When possible, look at a site before backing in. Note the slope, soft spots, overhanging branches and the location of hookups. Sometimes moving the RV a few feet forward or back finds a flatter spot. Some campground listings describe whether sites are level, which can save effort.
A Note on Soft Ground
On grass, sand or mud, blocks and jacks can sink. Use wide pads under jacks and stabilizers, avoid very soft areas after rain and check periodically during your stay. If the RV starts to tilt, re-level.
Using a Spotter
Driving onto blocks is easier with a spotter who can see the tire and the block. Agree on hand signals, keep the spotter out of the vehicle’s path and move slowly. Stop if a block shifts.
Starting Small
Practice leveling at home or at your first campground when you have time. Once you know how many blocks your RV typically needs, setup becomes much faster.
Final Setup Check
- Level side to side and front to back
- Chocks placed
- Stabilizers down with pads
- Steps deployed
- Slides extended after clearance check
Final Departure Check
- Stabilizers and jacks fully retracted
- Blocks and ramps collected
- Chocks removed and stored
- Walk-around complete
A Note on Storing Blocks
Store leveling blocks in a crate or bag so they do not slide around while driving. Clean off mud before storing.
Questions to Ask Before Buying Leveling Gear
- How much does my RV weigh per axle?
- What load rating do the blocks have?
- Do the blocks fit my tire width?
- Will ramps fit dual rear wheels if I have them?
Choose leveling gear rated for your RV’s weight and tire size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need leveling blocks?
Most RVers carry them.
How level does my RV need to be?
Close enough for comfort and appliances; check your manual.
Can stabilizers level my RV?
Usually no.
Where do chocks go?
Typically on the downhill side; follow your manual.
Are leveling apps accurate?
Verify with a physical level.
The Bottom Line
Level side to side with blocks or ramps, then front to back, chock wheels, deploy stabilizers and follow your manual. See RV must-haves.
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.
