Brutal Heatwave Grips the U.S. Affecting RV Travels & Tanks During Peak Season

Brutal Heatwave Grips the U.S. Affecting RV Travels & Tanks During Peak Season

Posted by Happy Campers Store on Jun 25th 2025

Brutal Heatwave Grips the U.S. — Is Your Holding Tank Treatment Up to the Challenge?

June 2025 – As record-setting heat affects much of the country, RVers in states like Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Georgia, and across the East Coast are facing challenges beyond just discomfort. The extreme temperatures can lead to unpleasant odors and sludge buildup in RV black tanks.

It’s essential to ensure that your tank treatment can withstand temperatures exceeding 100°F. If not, you may encounter issues that could disrupt your trip.

Many State & RV Parks Are Closing Due to the Heatwave

The ongoing extreme heat is prompting closures at various recreational sites:

  • Connecticut has closed several state parks and beaches—such as Millers Pond, Bigelow Hollow, Mount Tom, and Wadsworth Falls—to new visitors after reaching capacity mid-afternoon [source].
  • Across the East Coast and Southeast, extreme heat warnings have led to emergency measures, including park closures and limited Amtrak speeds due to track buckling.

If your travel plans are affected by park closures or if you’re looking to avoid the heat, consider these alternative options:

Alternate Campground Options & Route Suggestions

  • KOA Campgrounds (Open Year-Round): Locations in lower-population or higher-altitude areas (like Flagstaff AZ, Prescott AZ, or Great Falls MT) tend to remain open and offer full hookups.
  • National Forest & BLM Dispersed Sites: These sites are often unaffected by park closures—just be mindful of fire bans and dry campsites.
  • State Parks Reopening After Upgrades: For example, Michigan’s Port Crescent is set to reopen in late June, making it a good option for mid-latitude travel plans.

Tip: To enhance your experience, avoid front-range sites and mid-afternoon visits. Instead, aim to arrive early, check park websites or state-issued alerts on social media, and plan routes through cooler or shaded forested areas.

Best Apps for Monitoring Campsite Closures and Real-Time Routes

Staying informed about campsite closures and finding alternate routes is essential for a smooth RV experience. Here are some of the best apps to help you navigate your travels:

  • AllTrails: This app provides detailed trail maps and information on nearby campsites, including user reviews and updates on closures.
  • Campendium: A popular app among RVers, Campendium offers user-generated reviews and information on campgrounds, including real-time updates on closures and availability.
  • Roadtrippers: Plan your route and discover interesting stops along the way. Roadtrippers also provides information on campgrounds and potential closures.
  • Waze: While primarily a navigation app, Waze offers real-time traffic updates and can help you find alternate routes based on current conditions.
  • RV Parky: This app is designed specifically for RV travelers, providing information on RV parks, campgrounds, and user reviews, along with updates on closures.
  • Weather Underground: Get real-time weather updates that can affect your travel plans, including alerts for extreme heat or storms that may lead to park closures.
  • National Park Service App: This official app provides updates on national parks, including closures, alerts, and maps to help you plan your visit.
  • Recreation.gov - Find information on campgrounds and park availability.
  • Google Maps - Use for navigation and to find alternate routes based on current conditions.

Using these apps can help you stay informed and make the most of your RV adventures, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience on the road.

Why Heat Makes RV Holding Tank Odors Worse

  • Bacteria multiply rapidly, accelerating waste breakdown and odor release.
  • Anaerobic “bad bacteria” thrive in heat, producing foul-smelling sulfur compounds.
  • Liquid enzyme-based or weak bacterial formulas can become unstable or ineffective in high temperatures.

Heatwaves can be a significant challenge for your RV’s black tank system. According to recent reports, heatwaves have become more frequent and intense due to climate change, impacting not only comfort but also safety and infrastructure.

Tips for Managing Your RV Holding Tank

Stay Prepared for Your Trip

With parks closing and conditions changing rapidly, it’s important to be proactive. Ensure your RV is equipped with the right supplies and information to make the most of your summer travels.

For more tips and resources, consider exploring RV travel forums and local RV clubs, which can provide valuable insights and support from fellow travelers.

Stay safe and enjoy your adventures on the road!