What Is an RV Park Model Home?

The past several years in the US, there has been a growing interest in tiny homes. The desire to live with less in an intentional small space has come as a push back to the large, affluent American dream. Also, the short term rental such as AirBnb or Vrbo has also pushed the small yet convenient living space. So, what exactly is the small RV Park Model home? How are they different than typical tiny homes?

These unique tiny structures are manufactured homes on wheels, built to the ANSI A119.5 code. Blending the mobility of a recreational vehicle (RV) with the comfort of a semi-permanent residence. Designed for seasonal or occasional use, park models are limited to 399 square feet or less of living space, offering a unique tiny home-style experience. Don’t let the manufactured name fool you. Our park model RVs are built to RV specs and are legal to be used as residence in almost all US states.

While they resemble tiny homes, park models stand apart in a couple of keyways. Tiny homes are a broader category—often built for year-round living—whereas park models are designed more specifically for recreational or seasonal escapes. Plus, park models adhere to RV standards (complete with a VIN number). While many tiny homes don’t meet the local building codes required for permanent residency. Meaning, depending on your state or local regulations, a tiny home may not meet these regulations. Park models, classified as RVs, sidestep these hurdles, making them a flexible, compliant option for a home-like retreat without the red tape of traditional housing.

Why Choose Trailhead Cabins Park Models?

Living in a park model doesn’t mean sacrificing quality—especially with Trailhead Cabins. We design our park models as manufactured homes, built to rigorous standards with engineered drawings from floor to roof. Every unit is fully engineered, and we’re happy to provide sealed blueprints for your peace of mind. Worried about cramped quarters? Our industry-leading tall lofts maximize space and efficiency, setting us apart from a lot of the traditional park model builders.

At Trailhead Cabins, quality isn’t just a promise—it’s standard. We go beyond code requirements, unlike most companies are park models use engineered drawings. And we only use premium materials in our park models such as:

Painted lap siding with a 50-year limited warranty
3/4" tongue-and-groove knotty pine interior, sanded and sealed with clearcoat
Vinyl, waterproof, scratch-resistant flooring
Handmade custom kitchen cabinets from local craftsmen
Fiberglass doors with poly jambs
Insulated custom vinyl windows
A 40-year limited warranty metal roof

Do you have a specific use case or need a customized model? We will work closely with you to tailor your park model, from choosing the right model to customizing it to your taste. Ready to start? Request a Quote today.

Our Park Model Lineup

Here’s a look at our RV park models we offer:

The Baltimore: A practical standout with a tall, flat roof over an A-frame design. Step inside to a spacious dining and entertainment area. The main bedroom is roomy as well and a generous size loft—perfect for extra sleeping space.
The Ridgecrest: A customer favorite with rustic log cabin charm. Its open living area, reverse gables, extra windows, and lofted ceiling create a warm, light-filled retreat.
The Belmont: Known for soaring cathedral ceilings with exposed beams, a full-size loft, and an open floor plan that feels bigger than its footprint—a generous size loft ideal for a second bedroom.
The Claremont: Our loft-free option, perfect for those who want simplicity and openness at a budget-friendly price. Of all our models this is the best if needing a handicap accessible place.

All Trailhead Park models are 100% turnkey, requiring only stabilization and a simple RV-style hookup—move in the day it’s delivered! Need accessibility? We can make any model handicap friendly. Note: Park models aren’t built for frequent travel; if you’re a road warrior, a traditional RV might be a better fit.

Questions about a model? Request a Quote or reach out at 888.439.5565!

Park Model Use Cases

All Trailhead Cabins Park Models are certified as RVs, meaning they can typically go wherever RVs are allowed—think campgrounds, private lots, or RV communities. This flexibility unlocks a variety of uses:

Campgrounds: Park models shine as a home-away-from-home in campgrounds that welcome RVs. Whether you have a mountain lot that gives crisp air and stunning views, or staking out a summer spot by the lake, or setting up for a hunting season base, these units will provide that permanent housing option you need with less headache than traditional built cabins. They offer more than a standard RV—think full-size kitchens, bathrooms, and cozy lofts—without the hassle of constant towing. Many campgrounds allow semi-permanent setups, so your park model can stay put for the season—or longer—giving you a consistent retreat for weekend getaways or extended vacations.
Affordable Housing: For individuals, first-time buyers, or small families, park models offer a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive traditional housing. All while offering the essentials—kitchen, bedroom, bath—without the upkeep of a big house. Making this a cost-effective option for home ownership.
Short-Term Rentals: Park models are a perfect pivot into the glamping trend—elevated camping with a homey feel. For an individual with private land, renting out a Trailhead Park model can turn a scenic corner of your property into a guest retreat. Think wooded clearings, lakeside plots, or mountain overlooks—guests get a cozy escape with custom kitchens, knotty pine interiors, and full amenities, all low-maintenance for you since it’s not built for constant moves. For campground owners, adding multiple park models to your roster upgrades the experience beyond tents or basic RVs. They’re turn-key and RV-certified, so you can place several across your site—each offering that upscale, rustic charm visitors crave—boosting appeal without the hassle of permanent construction. Whether it’s one unit or a fleet, it’s a smart way to draw travelers seeking comfort in nature.
Guest Accommodations: Need extra space for visitors without remodeling your house? A park model on your property becomes a private guest retreat. Imagine family staying for the holidays, friends crashing after a wedding, or in-laws visiting for a month—all with their own kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, steps from your door. Trailhead’s handicap-accessible options make it inclusive, and the tall lofts add sleeping flexibility for bigger groups. It’s less invasive than an addition (no permits for a permanent structure) and more personal than a hotel, offering independence for them and peace for you.
Retirement Living: Retirees eyeing a simpler, slower pace will love park models. They’re low-maintenance—less to clean, no big repairs—and sized just right for one or two. Place it in a scenic RV community, like near a beach or rolling hills, and you’ve got a minimalist haven with nature out the window. Trailhead’s insulated windows and quality construction keep it cozy year-round, while the RV certification means you can relocate if you crave a new view (though they’re not built for constant moves). It’s downsizing without sacrifice—a myriad of custom options, all on your terms.
Tiny Living: Park models are a natural fit for the tiny living movement, where less is more. They’re built for those who want to simplify life, slash expenses, and tread lighter on the planet—think efficient design, cutting utility bills and clutter. Unlike many tiny homes, their RV status lets you setup in RV-friendly spots, from affordable lots to off-grid hideaways, dodging the zoning headaches of permanent structures. Trailhead’s spacious lofts and custom layouts make downsizing feel roomy, not restrictive—ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or minimalists prioritizing experiences over stuff.

Park models suit individuals, couples, or small families who crave simplicity and freedom. Just double-check local zoning and park rules before setup. Whether you’re downsizing, vacationing, or seeking a minimalist escape, Trailhead Cabin’s park models prove big living fits in a small space. Request a Quote to explore your options!

Financing Your Park Model: How It Works

Financing a park model starts with understanding its RV classification—it’s not a traditional home, so conventional mortgages are off the table. Instead, you’ll apply for an RV loan, a process like financing a car, offered by banks, credit unions, or specialty lenders. At Trailhead Cabins, we’re here to help along the way, including working with trusted partners like 21st Mortgage Corporation (visit them at www.21stmorgagecorporation.com/trailhead) who specialize in RV and manufactured home financing.

Applying for an RV loan begins with gathering key paperwork to prove your creditworthiness and detail the purchase. You’ll typically need to provide proof of income (like pay stubs or tax returns), employment verification (a letter or contact info from your employer), bank statements (showing savings or cash flow), and identification (driver’s license or passport). Lenders will also want specifics about the park model—make, model, year, and price—and at Trailhead, we can supply sealed blueprints if they’re required to verify the unit’s specs or construction. Once submitted, the lender reviews your credit history, income stability, and the park model’s value to determine approval, loan amount, interest rate, and terms (often 5-20 years). After approval, you’ll sign the loan agreement, make any down payment, and the lender funds the purchase—then your park model is ready to roll into place.

Ready to Explore Options?

RV park models offer a unique blend of mobility, comfort, and simplicity, making them a standout choice for everything from seasonal getaways to full-on tiny living. With Trailhead Cabins, you’re not just getting a park model—you’re investing in quality craftsmanship, customizable design, and a lifestyle that fits your vision. Whether you’re eyeing a campground retreat, a rental venture, or a cozy downsized home, our team is ready to guide you from first quote to final installation hookup. Explore your options at trailheadcabins.us and take the next step toward big living in a small space—your Trailhead park model awaits!