What is a Park Model RV: Overview & Definition

If you’re looking for a spacious, comfortable RV that’s ideal for long-term stays or seasonal getaways, a park model RV, also known as an rv park model, could be exactly what you need. At Kunes RV, we help RV shoppers understand all their options—including the increasingly popular park model lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a park model RV is, how it differs from other RVs or mobile homes, and why it’s a top choice for extended or stationary RV living.

A park model RV is a type of recreational vehicle designed for long-term or seasonal use at a single location. While they fall under the RV category, park models look and feel more like small cabins or tiny homes. They’re ideal for those who want a cozy, semi-permanent getaway with all the comforts of home.
Recreational park trailers, often referred to as park model RVs, are designed to blend comfort and mobility, making them suitable for long-term living situations, vacation getaways, and as affordable housing solutions.
Park model RV definition: A towable RV built to RV industry standards (ANSI A119.5), typically under 400 square feet, designed for long-term placement at a campground, RV park, or private lot.

Today’s park model cabin RVs come with all the amenities you would expect in a residential home, including:

• Full-size appliances (refrigerator, stove, microwave)
• Separate bedroom(s) and lofts
• Spacious bathrooms with showers
• Residential-style furniture and storage
• Heating and air conditioning
• Covered porches or decks (depending on model)

These features make park models ideal for seasonal RV living, family vacations, or even tiny home lifestyles.

While park models and mobile homes may look similar, they’re not the same.

If you’re comparing a park model RV vs mobile home, remember: park models offer a unique blend of comfort and mobility—perfect for stationary RV living without the need for a permanent foundation.

When comparing park models to modular homes, it’s important to understand their distinct differences. A park model is a type of recreational vehicle (RV) designed for temporary or seasonal use, typically in a campground or RV park. These units are built on a trailer, making them easy to transport and set up on-site. With a maximum floor plan of 400 square feet, park models offer a cozy living space perfect for vacationing or seasonal living.
On the other hand, modular homes are prefabricated houses constructed in a factory and assembled on-site. Unlike park models, modular homes are built to meet local building codes and are often placed on a permanent foundation. This makes them suitable for use as primary residences. Modular homes can be much larger than park models, providing more living space and the potential for multiple rooms and levels.
Another key difference lies in their intended use. Park models are designed for recreational purposes, serving as a vacation home or a seasonal retreat. In contrast, modular homes are meant to be permanent residences, offering a long-term living solution.
Cost is another factor to consider. Park models are generally more affordable, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. Modular homes, however, can range from $50,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on size and customization.
In summary, while both park models and modular homes offer compact living spaces, they differ significantly in terms of construction, size, and purpose. Park models are ideal for those seeking a temporary or seasonal getaway, while modular homes are better suited for permanent living.

When choosing between park model homes and destination trailers, it’s essential to understand their differences in design, size, and purpose. Park model homes are designed to provide a spacious and luxurious living experience, often resembling traditional homes. With a maximum size of 400 square feet, park models feature full-sized appliances, comfortable bedrooms, and ample storage, making them ideal for long-term stays or seasonal living.
Destination trailers, on the other hand, are designed to be more compact and mobile. Typically smaller than park models, with a maximum size of 300 square feet, destination trailers are built for easy towing and setup. This makes them perfect for frequent travelers who need a convenient and flexible living space.
The intended use of these two types of RVs also differs. Park model homes are designed for longer-term stays, such as seasonal living or extended vacations. They offer a more permanent and comfortable living solution. In contrast, destination trailers are designed for shorter-term stays, such as weekend getaways or road trips, providing a more transient living experience.
In terms of cost, park model homes are generally more expensive, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. Destination trailers are more affordable, with prices ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
Overall, while both park model homes and destination trailers offer compact living spaces, they cater to different needs. Park model homes provide a more permanent and luxurious living experience, while destination trailers offer mobility and convenience for frequent travelers.

Park models are incredibly versatile recreational vehicles (RVs) that can be used for a variety of purposes. Here are some popular uses for park models:

1. Vacation Homes: Park models make excellent vacation homes, offering a comfortable and spacious living space for families or couples looking for a getaway.
2. Seasonal Living: Ideal for seasonal living, park models provide a cozy and convenient place to stay during the summer or winter months.
3. Camping Cabins: Park models can serve as luxurious camping cabins, offering a comfortable alternative to traditional camping.
4. Mobile Homes: As mobile homes, park models provide a compact and affordable living space for individuals or families.
5. Tiny Homes: Embrace the minimalist lifestyle with park models as tiny homes, offering an eco-friendly and efficient living space.
6. Guest Houses: Park models can be used as guest houses, providing a comfortable and convenient place for visitors to stay.
7. Rental Properties: Turn park models into rental properties, offering a unique and affordable living space for travelers or seasonal workers.
8. Retirement Homes: Park models make great retirement homes, providing a comfortable and convenient living space for seniors looking to downsize.
9. Hunting Cabins: Use park models as hunting cabins, offering a cozy and convenient place to stay during hunting season.
10. Glamping: Park models are perfect for glamping, offering a luxurious and comfortable alternative to traditional camping.

Overall, park models offer a versatile and convenient living space that can be adapted for a wide range of uses, making them a popular choice for many different lifestyles.

Park models are a great fit for:

• Seasonal campers looking for a home-away-from-home
• Retirees and snowbirds seeking comfort and space
• Families with permanent or semi-permanent campground spots
• Property owners adding a guest cabin or rental unit
• Anyone embracing a tiny home park model lifestyle

Park model owners enjoy the unique features of these RVs, such as the spacious living areas and the ability to customize their outdoor space with decks and patios.