Among the most frequent questions we get from potential visitors is whether our three RV slots are big enough to accommodate their motorhome or travel trailer. The answer is generally Yes. If it fits through the gate, it will have no difficulty fitting into one of our RV spaces.
We’ve had some surprisingly large RVs stay at the Grotto. This includes 45-foot Class A diesel pushers and similarly sized Super Cs. Your RV is welcome at Blue Grotto, no matter how big or small.
Having a spotter helps
For the largest RVs, having someone outside to spot for you will help ensure you won’t scrape the side of your rig when pulling through the gate. As you undoubtedly know, even minor damage to most RVs can be costly. An outside spotter will help you avoid this.
Trailers can be an issue
While we’ve seen full-size pickups pass through the gate while pulling a variety of trailers without difficulty, it’s different when a large RV is pulling a tow vehicle, stacker trailer or toy hauler.
Getting through the gate from NE 172nd Court requires a very tight turn. And even if your RV makes it through the gate unscathed, your trailer may not be able to straighten out in time.
We remember one instance in which a guest’s large Class A started to pass through the gate without issue, only to have the owner realize his cargo trailer wouldn’t be able to make it.
Fortunately, the owner was part of a group that included someone who had a pickup truck with a hitch. The RV owner detached the trailer and came through the gate. The friend with the pickup then went out and got the trailer.
So, if you normally tow any sort of vehicle or trailer behind your large RV, you may want to leave it behind. Either that or travel with a friend who has a pickup with a hitch.
Watch the air draft
In boating, the term air draft refers to the distance between the waterline and the top of your vessel. This determines your ability to pass under certain bridges. Large RVs have a similar issue.
We remember an incident involving a guest who had just purchased a shiny new Class C motorhome. This was his first RV, so he didn’t consider how tall it was.
He tried to pass between Pavilions 6 and 7 and, sure enough, caught the overhand above his cab on the corner of Pavilion 7’s roof. The pavilion wasn’t damaged, but he did more than $2,000 in damage to his motorhome. Worse, he made the RV undrivable, bringing his vacation to a sudden halt.
As long as you come directly through the gate and park in your assigned RV slot, you shouldn’t have to worry about this. Just remember how tall you are.
Don’t leave it to chance
Be aware that Blue Grotto only has the three RV slots. Don’t gamble that one will be available if you just show up. Call ahead and make a reservation. If need be, you can always cancel it.