FAQ’s for Campers and Boondockers
Q: How far in advance do I have to contact an Agritourism provider in order to stay overnight?
A: We know that depending on how you like to travel, Travelers may not be sure exactly where they will be staying more than a day or two in advance. Or, you may be the type of Traveler who likes to have everything planned out. It just depends on how you roll. It is courteous to give your Agritourism Destination at least 24 hours notice, and, of course, the longer the notice, the greater the chances that you will get the spot you want, especially during the busiest seasons. Most Destinations will only have room for 1-3 RVs or campers.
If your Agritourism Destination has activities that you would like to participate in, be sure to inquire about the attraction when you identify yourself as a Rolling Homestays member. They may have special promotions, or discounts that apply to members.
Q: Do I have to help out my Farmhost in order to stay there?
A: The short answer is yes! The longer answer is there are many ways to help out your Farmhost without contributing physical labor. Farming is a business, and, like all businesses, farms require customers to thrive. Most farms, orchards, wineries, ranches, etc, have farmstores where you can purchase their products, or they offer farm based experiences that you can participate in exciting adventures such as trail rides, sunflower mazes, wine tasting, farm-to-table or chuckwagon dinners, bakeries and coffee shops, fresh meat and produce, hand made clothing, accessories, or jewelry, farm fresh cheese or butter, freshly milled grains…the list is as varied as our modern farms are unique. Helping out a farm can mean many different things.
Q: Can we extend our stay beyond the agreed upon date?
A: Each Agritourism Destination is unique, and will have different policies regarding length of stay. Be clear when you initially contact your Farmhost about how long you would like to stay. Be sure to contact your Farmhost as soon as you know that you would like to extend your stay to have the best chance of getting to do so.
Q: Are there specific check in/out times?
A: You will want to arrive at your Agritourism Destination during their regular operating hours, so that you can check in with the manager or owner, and receive instructions about where to camp, and anything else that you need to know. Also, keep in mind that many Agritourism Destinations are in rural areas that may not be well lit, so arriving before dark is usually a very good idea. When you contact your Farmhost let them know what time you will arrive, if you have an idea ahead of time, and ask for special instructions.
Q: Who can become a Member of Rolling Homestays?
A: You can become a Member of Rolling Homestays if:
- You are a Traveler who enjoys unique and interesting places to camp, and you like the idea of connecting with and supporting local farmers and agricultural producers while you travel. Members of Rolling Homestays may be tent campers, or self-contained RVers, aka Boondockers.
- You are a Farmhost: an Agritourism Destination that welcomes RVers and/or campers to camp on their farm in exchange for the support of their farm, or small farm business.
- You are fortunate enough that both of the above applies to you. Because, I know that, as much as we love farming, we also love to travel. Rolling Homestays provides us with an opportunity to meet new and interesting people, try unique and delicious food, and have fun experiences, all while supporting a small farm, and local food economy that we truly love and believe in.
Q: I love the idea! How do I become a member of Rolling Homestays?
A: Click here: Join Now!
What could be better than that?!
