Vertical Camping Made Simple for Motorhome Lovers

Ever wondered how to camp on a vertical site when you’re rolling in a motorhome? It’s not as tricky as it sounds. With the right know‑how you can park on steep pitches, stay safe, and enjoy the view without breaking any UK rules.

Safety and Legal Basics

The first thing to check is the site’s slope rating. Most UK campsites label steep spots as 15°‑30°. Anything steeper needs extra care – you’ll want to set up brakes, use wheel chocks, and make sure the levelers reach their full extension. If the site doesn’t give a slope rating, call ahead and ask; a quick phone call can save you a night of scrubbing the floor for water.

Next, look at the local laws. In England and Wales you can park on a vertical pitch as long as the motorhome is road‑legal, the brakes work, and you’re not blocking public pathways. Scotland’s rules are similar, but some national parks have stricter limits. When in doubt, read the campsite’s terms or ask a staff member – they’ll usually tell you if a spot is off‑limits.

Don’t forget seat‑belt and child‑safety rules while you’re parked. Even if you’re not moving, UK law still expects passengers to be strapped in if the vehicle is stationary on a public road. Inside a motorhome, keep the sleeping area clear of loose items; a sudden shift on a hill can cause everything to slide.

Gear and Setup Tips

Good gear makes a vertical pitch feel flat. A set of sturdy, low‑profile levelers is essential – they give you a stable base and stop the RV from rocking. Pair them with a quality stabilizer bar; it adds extra support on the downhill side.

Portable power stations are a game‑changer. On a steep site you might be further from the mains hook‑up, so a 500‑Wh lithium unit can run lights, a mini fridge, and charge phones. If you have a solar panel, angle it toward the sun; even a small 100‑W panel can keep the battery topped up over the day.

When it comes to sleeping, a foam mattress pad works better than an air mattress on a slope. It won’t shift around and it adds a layer of insulation against cold ground. Keep a compact blanket or sleeping bag nearby – temperatures drop quicker on higher ground.

Finally, think about water and waste. Use a portable toilet if the site doesn’t have a dump point. Empty the tank before you leave the pitch to avoid any spill on a steep surface. For fresh water, a 20‑liter jerry can with a squeeze bottle can help you refill without lugging a heavy tank up the hill.

By checking the slope, following local rules, and equipping your motorhome with the right tools, vertical camping becomes just another adventure on the road. It’s a chance to wake up to panoramic views, enjoy fresh air, and feel the freedom that only a motorhome can give. So next time you see a steep site on the map, smile, park, and enjoy the ride.