Winter in Your Park Model: What to Know Before You Stay the Season

For many park model owners, winter brings a peaceful kind of magic — quiet mornings, crisp air, and a slower pace that feels like a gift.

But if you're thinking about spending time in your park model during the colder months, there are a few important things to understand about winterization, comfort, and campground amenities.

Whether you're planning long weekends or a seasonal retreat, here's a balanced look at the advantages and disadvantages of winter use.

The Advantages of Winter Park Model Living

• Peace, quiet, and privacy - Winter is the “off-season” at most campgrounds, which means fewer neighbors, minimal traffic, and a more serene environment. If you love solitude, winter may be the best time of year to use your park model.

• Beautiful scenery and a cozy atmosphere - Many owners love winter for one reason: the views. Snow-covered landscapes, frost on the trees, and peaceful mornings create a calming, restorative retreat.

• Lower campground traffic and easier access to amenities - Even though it's the off-season, most campgrounds still maintain essential facilities like bathhouses, heated restrooms, and community areas. You’ll enjoy shorter lines and more privacy.

• A chance to truly disconnect - Without the buzz of summer activity, winter encourages rest, reflection, and reconnection with yourself or your loved ones. It's a wonderful time for writing, reading, crafting, or simply enjoying the quiet.

The Disadvantages to Consider

• Winterization shuts off water inside your park model - This is the biggest difference between summer and winter use. When your park model is winterized, the plumbing system is drained and prepared to prevent pipes from freezing. This means:

• No running water inside the unit

. No showering inside the unit

• No toilet inside the unit

• No using sinks, dishwashers, or washing machines

It’s completely normal — and necessary — for any home that won’t be heated full-time.

• Reliance on campground facilities - During winter, you’ll need to use the campground’s heated bathroom and shower buildings. The good news? Most campgrounds make this very convenient and surprisingly comfortable. Many offer:

• Heated, clean communal restrooms

• Private shower stalls

• On-site drinking water access

• Laundry rooms

• Vending machines or small cafés

• Warming stations or lounges

Some resorts even keep community fireplaces burning all day in winter.

• Extra steps to stay warm - Park models are well-insulated, but you may need supplemental heating such as:

• Portable space heaters

• Electric fireplace• Heated mattress pads

Keeping entry doors and windows tightly sealed is also important.

• Limited outdoor water hookups - Even if campgrounds offer drinking water, outdoor spigots may be off for the season to prevent freezing. Prepare to bring water jugs inside the unit if needed.

Is Winter Park Model Living Right for You?

Winter stays aren’t for everyone — but for the right person, they’re unforgettable. If you enjoy quiet, love seasonal beauty, and don’t mind taking a short walk to the bathhouse, winter can be a peaceful and rejuvenating time to enjoy your park model home.

And if you want a full checklist of what to prepare, stop by our Resources Page to explore guides and winter tips created specifically for park model owners.