As the RV lifestyle continues to grow and evolve, a new movement is gaining traction among road travelers: purpose-driven RVing. More RVers are steering their rigs toward service opportunities, blending adventure with community engagement in a trend that’s as rewarding as it is impactful.
While the RV industry has long been associated with freedom and exploration, recent initiatives show that a growing number of RVers are choosing to give back to the communities and environments they visit and love. From organized park restoration events to national volunteer programs, these efforts reflect a shift in how RVers define connection, not just with the land, but with people and purpose.
National Park Restoration Event Returns in 2025
One of the latest examples was the 2025 Park Improvement Event, which took place May 15 at Bonneyville Mill County Park in Indiana. Backed by leaders in the RV industry, the initiative is part of a broader effort to preserve public spaces that RVers and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy year-round.
Volunteers assisted with trail work, invasive plant removal, tree planting, general beautification, and more. While the event only lasts one day, the impact continues—not only for the park but for the volunteers who often leave with new friendships and a deeper sense of stewardship.
Organizers hope this event serves as a model for future community partnerships. “We’re not just talking about the next campground—we’re talking about what we can leave behind,” said one spokesperson.
RV Care-A-Vanners Build Momentum
Another major opportunity for RVers looking to make a difference comes through Habitat for Humanity’s Care-A-Vanners program (habitat.org/volunteer/travel-and-build/rv-care-a-vanners). This initiative enlists RV travelers to help construct homes in underserved communities across the U.S.
With build sites scheduled throughout 2025 from Washington to Michigan to Colorado to North Carolina to Iowa (just to name a few), the program offers RVers a structured yet flexible way to volunteer. Participants provide labor during the day and return to their rigs at night, creating a unique blend of community service and personal comfort. No construction background is required—just a willingness to pitch in and work collaboratively.
Wildlife Refuges Offer Volunteer Stays
For RVers with a passion for nature, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service continues to offer a wide range of RV-compatible volunteer positions (fws.gov/volunteer-opportunity/2025-summer-rv-visitor-services-volunteer). Wildlife refuges across the country, including Aransas National Wildlife Refuge in Texas, are recruiting RVers to help with tasks like habitat restoration, trail maintenance, visitor services, etc.
These positions can sometimes come with full RV hookups and extended stays, making them ideal for travelers looking to spend more time in one place while contributing to conservation efforts.
Best of all, the programs allow volunteers to experience some of the country’s most scenic and ecologically significant areas up close.
Matching Travelers with Purpose
To help connect more RVers with these kinds of opportunities, organizations like seRV with Purpose (seRVwithpurpose.com) have emerged as volunteer matchmakers. Through its online platform, seRV helps mobile volunteers find short- and long-term service opportunities with nonprofit groups across the U.S.
Projects range from helping at food banks to participating in community cleanups, and users can filter options based on cause, region, and time commitment. For many RVers, it’s a convenient way to add depth to their travel plans while supporting meaningful work.
More Than a Trend
While volunteer travel is not a new concept, its growing presence in the RV community reflects broader shifts in traveler values—particularly among those who want their journey to have purpose beyond recreation.
As RVers continue to explore every road possible through North America, many are discovering that some of the most rewarding destinations aren’t just on a map—they’re found in the communities they serve along the way.
Let’s Talk Travel & Destinations!
Have you been somewhere amazing lately? Found the perfect campsite? Stumbled across a hidden gem off the beaten path?
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on the Travel & Destinations section of the I Heart RVing Community Forum—and we want to hear from YOU!
- Just get back from an unforgettable road trip
- Planning your next big adventure
- Looking for inspiration or local tips
- Or dreaming up your ultimate RV bucket list?
…this is your space to share, discover, and connect with fellow RVers who love the journey as much as the destination.
So, hop on and take a minute to share your favorite spots, drop some photos (who doesn’t LOVE trip pics?!), ask questions about routes, camping options, or must-sees, or explore new places through the eyes of other travelers.
Let’s help each other make every mile more memorable at: https://rving.wpenginepowered.com/community/space/travel-destinations/home
Summer RV Events!
The Food & Wine Classic in Aspen
Dates: June 19 – 22, 2025
Location: Aspen, CO
classic.foodandwine.com/
If you’re looking for an unforgettable RV trip that blends culinary indulgence with stunning mountain views, the 2025 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen should be at the top of your list. This iconic event brings together world-class chefs, winemakers, and food lovers for a weekend of tastings, seminars, and breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery. It’s an epicurean adventure like no other—and yes, it’s RV road-trip worthy!
While there are no RV hookups right in Aspen, there are several campgrounds in the area to use as basecamp. Some (though not all) offer full hookups, scenic views, and access to the free RFTA bus line that can take you straight into Aspen—so you can sip, sample, and savor without the parking stress.
Pro tip: Book early—as in ASAP! This event (and nearby campgrounds) fills up super fast!
Wyoming Outdoor Weekend & Expo
Dates: May 16 – 17, 2025
Location: Lander Community and Convention Center
Lander, WY
wyomingoutdoorweekend.com/
Overland Expo West 2025
Dates: May 16 – 18, 2025
Location: Ft Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff, AZ
overlandexpo.com/west/
RVS Move America Week
Dates: June 1 – 5, 2025
Location: The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection, Washington, D.C.
rvia.org/events/rvs-move-america-week
Tampa Bay Summer RV Show
Dates: June 19 – 22, 2025
Location: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, FL
frvta.org/show/tampa-bay-summer-rv-show/
Overland Expo PNW 2025
Dates: June 27 – 29, 2025
Location: Deschutes County Expo Center, Redmond, OR
overlandexpo.com/pacific-northwest/
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