RV travel offers the freedom to explore Texas with your home on wheels—but knowing how to properly use hookups is essential to staying comfortable, safe, and self-sufficient on the road. Whether you’re spending a weekend in a Hill Country state park or parking at a full-service RV resort near the Gulf Coast, hookups provide your power, water, and waste disposal—making your rig feel like a real home away from home.
For first-time RV travelers, the idea of plugging in power, connecting a sewer hose, or regulating water flow can feel intimidating. But once you understand the basics, RV hookups are easy and manageable. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about the three main types of hookups—electrical, water, and sewer—plus tips on safe setup, campground etiquette, and common troubleshooting. With this knowledge in your pocket, you’ll feel more confident pulling into your next Texas campground, whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth.
What Are RV Hookups?
RV hookups are external utility connections that allow you to run your RV like a fully functional home—complete with electricity, running water, and wastewater disposal. These connections are available at most developed campgrounds in Texas, and understanding the types and setups will make your camping experience smoother and more enjoyable.
1. The Three Main Types of RV Hookups
Electrical Hookup: Provides power to your RV, allowing you to use appliances, charge devices, and run your air conditioning or heater.
Water Hookup: Connects your RV to a freshwater source so you can use sinks, showers, and flush toilets.
Sewer Hookup: Allows you to drain your black and grey water tanks directly into a campsite’s sewage system.
2. Full Hookup vs. Partial Hookup Sites
Full Hookup Sites: Include power, water, and sewer connections—ideal for longer stays or full-time RVers.
Partial Hookup Sites: Typically offer only water and electric. You’ll need to visit a dump station when your tanks fill.
Dry Camping (No Hookups): Common at free sites or dispersed camping areas; you rely entirely on your RV’s onboard systems.
3. Where to Find Hookup Sites in Texas
Texas State Parks: Many parks offer partial or full hookups, especially popular ones like Garner, Inks Lake, and Brazos Bend.
Private RV Parks: Places like KOA Campgrounds and local RV resorts provide full hookups with added amenities.
National Forest Campgrounds: Often have partial hookups or water-only access; check site details in advance.
Hookups vary by site, so always review a campground’s listing before booking. Knowing what to expect—and how to connect—can make your RV trip in Texas far more enjoyable and worry-free.
Understanding RV Electrical Hookups
Electricity is the heartbeat of your RV’s daily comforts—powering your lights, air conditioning, kitchen appliances, and devices. But not all power hookups are created equal. Texas campgrounds typically offer either 30-amp or 50-amp service, and understanding the difference (plus how to connect safely) is crucial to keeping your rig powered and protected.
1. 30-Amp vs. 50-Amp Service
30-Amp connections are standard for smaller RVs and travel trailers. They deliver up to 3,600 watts of power.
50-Amp hookups are used by larger RVs with more power-hungry appliances and multiple air conditioning units. They can provide up to 12,000 watts.
You cannot use a 50-amp plug in a 30-amp socket or vice versa without an adapter. Carry the correct dogbone adapter if you need to bridge this gap temporarily.
2. Use a Surge Protector
Plugging into a faulty campground outlet can damage your RV’s electrical system.
Always use a surge protector or EMS (electrical management system) to protect against power surges, incorrect wiring, or voltage drops.
Plug your surge protector into the pedestal first, then connect your RV cord.
3. Tips for Plugging in Safely
Turn off your breaker switch before plugging in or removing the power cord.
Plug in your surge protector, then your RV’s power cord.
Turn the breaker back on to energize the system.
If you hear buzzing or smell burning, disconnect immediately and inspect both the plug and pedestal.
For more hookup basics, check out Go RVing – Hookups Guide
Power is easy to manage once you’ve done it a few times—but always treat it with respect and follow proper procedures to stay safe and avoid costly repairs.
Connecting to Fresh Water
Having access to running water in your RV brings major convenience—from cooking and showering to flushing toilets. Most developed campgrounds in Texas offer water hookups, but setting it up correctly ensures clean, consistent flow and avoids damage to your RV’s plumbing.
1. Use a Food-Grade Drinking Water Hose
Always use a white or blue food-grade hose designed specifically for drinking water.
Avoid garden hoses—they may leach harmful chemicals or taste like plastic.
Mark or store your water hose separately from sewer hoses to prevent cross-contamination.
2. Add a Water Pressure Regulator
Water pressure at campgrounds can vary—and high pressure can damage your RV’s plumbing system.
Use a water pressure regulator to keep the PSI between 40–60.
Screw it onto the campground faucet before attaching your hose.
Consider one with a built-in gauge for monitoring pressure.
3. Decide Whether to Fill Your Freshwater Tank or Stay Hooked Up
Hooked-Up Setup: Connect the water hose directly to the city water inlet and use campground water continuously.
Tank Fill Setup: Use the same hose to fill your onboard freshwater tank, then use your RV’s water pump to pressurize the system when camping without hookups.
In remote areas or uncertain weather, having a full tank offers backup even at full-hookup sites.
4. Sanitize Your System Regularly
Clean and flush your freshwater system every few months, especially before a long trip.
Use bleach or RV-specific sanitizers to clean the tank and lines.
With clean water properly regulated and safely connected, your RV becomes a fully functional, mobile home—perfect for exploring every corner of Texas.
Sewer Hookups and Dumping Waste
Handling RV wastewater may not be glamorous, but it’s one of the most important parts of RV travel. Texas campgrounds make this process fairly simple—with full-hookup sites and designated dump stations available at most public and private parks. Here’s how to manage it safely and responsibly.
1. Know the Difference Between Black and Grey Water
Black Water Tank: Holds waste from the toilet.
Grey Water Tank: Collects water from sinks and showers.
Both tanks are emptied using the same sewer hose but must be dumped in the correct sequence.
2. Sewer Hose Setup and Best Practices
Use a high-quality, expandable sewer hose (typically 15–20 feet long).
Attach a clear elbow connector if you want to see when the flow stops—this helps prevent overflow.
Secure the hose to the RV’s sewer outlet and insert the other end into the campground’s sewer drain (often with a threaded or weighted fitting).
Always use gloves and sanitize your hands after handling connections.
3. The Right Dumping Process
Dump the black tank first to flush out solid waste.
Follow with the grey tank, which helps rinse the hose with soapy water.
Once both tanks are emptied, use a rinse hose (never your drinking water hose) to clean the hose and connections.
Store the sewer hose in a sealed, separate container—ideally in an exterior storage bay.
4. Where to Dump in Texas
If your site doesn’t have full hookups:
Use Sanidumps or RVDumpsites.net to locate nearby public dump stations, often found at truck stops, city parks, or RV service centers.
Many Texas State Parks also provide central dump stations near camping loops.
Managing your waste properly keeps your RV fresh and your campsite clean—and shows respect for the land and fellow campers.
RV Hookup Etiquette at Campgrounds
Hooking up your RV isn’t just about getting connected—it’s also about being a courteous camper. Texas RV parks, public campgrounds, and state parks often have tight spaces and shared utility areas, so following proper etiquette ensures a positive experience for everyone.
1. Position Your Rig Thoughtfully
Align your RV so that your hookups (power, water, sewer) easily reach the utility pedestal without crossing into neighboring sites.
Use leveling blocks to stabilize your RV if the site isn’t perfectly flat—but avoid encroaching on adjacent spaces.
Park in a way that gives others privacy and enough room for slide-outs or awnings.
2. Mind Your Hoses and Cords
Keep sewer hoses off walkways using sloped hose supports to help with drainage and visibility.
Use short, tidy cable runs for water and power cords—avoid tripping hazards.
Never stretch cords across communal areas or through someone else’s campsite.
3. Follow Generator and Quiet Hour Rules
Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours (often 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.).
If dry camping, run your generator only during permitted hours, and never for extended periods.
Choose a quieter inverter generator if you camp off-grid frequently.
4. Leave Your Site Clean and Better Than You Found It
Dispose of trash properly and double-check the area before departure.
Don’t leave hoses, leveling blocks, or gear behind.
Close dump station lids securely and report any leaks or problems to the campground host.
A little courtesy goes a long way—especially when sharing space with fellow travelers. Practicing good hookup etiquette helps keep Texas campgrounds welcoming, clean, and enjoyable for everyone.
Common Hookup Problems and How to Avoid Them
Even seasoned RV travelers occasionally face hiccups when connecting to campground utilities. By anticipating common issues and knowing how to fix—or prevent—them, you’ll avoid frustrating delays and costly damage to your RV systems.
1. Tripped Breakers and Power Drops
Problem: Plugging into a pedestal with mismatched amperage or faulty wiring can trip breakers or damage appliances.
Solution: Always check your RV’s power needs (30-amp vs. 50-amp), use a surge protector, and turn off the breaker switch before plugging in. If a breaker keeps tripping, reduce power usage (e.g., switch off one AC unit while using the microwave).
2. Water Leaks and Pressure Issues
Problem: Excessive campground water pressure can damage fittings or cause leaks inside your RV.
Solution: Always install a water pressure regulator at the spigot before connecting your hose. If the water flow is low, check for kinks in the hose or clogged filters at your inlet.
3. Sewer Smells or Clogs
Problem: Improper dumping or dry traps can lead to odors or backups in your RV.
Solution: Keep a small amount of water in the toilet bowl and pour a cup of RV-friendly enzyme treatment into both tanks after dumping. Never leave black tank valves open during use—it allows solids to dry and build up.
4. Frozen or Overheated Connections
Problem: In winter, water hoses can freeze; in summer, power cords can overheat.
Solution: Use heated water hoses during freezing temps and avoid coiling cords tightly in extreme heat. If your shore power plug feels hot, unplug and inspect for damage or corrosion.
5. Forgetting to Secure or Disconnect Properly
Problem: Driving off while still connected to utilities can cause serious damage.
Solution: Always perform a departure walk-around checklist to verify all hoses and cords are detached and stored properly before moving.
By staying alert and prepared, you’ll avoid the most common hookup problems—and gain confidence with each stop along your Texas RV journey.
Final Thoughts: Master RV Hookups Before You Roll
Getting comfortable with RV hookups is one of the most important steps toward confident, stress-free travel—especially in a state as vast and varied as Texas. From lush Hill Country parks to remote desert outposts, RV-friendly campgrounds across the state make it easy to plug in, stay cool, and enjoy modern comforts even in the heart of nature.
As a new RVer, taking time to understand how to safely connect power, water, and sewer systems will save you from unexpected challenges and ensure a smoother experience at every site. Once you’ve practiced a few setups, the process becomes second nature—and you’ll be able to pull into a campground, hook up in minutes, and relax knowing everything is running smoothly.
With the right tools, a bit of knowledge, and good campground etiquette, you’re ready to enjoy the best of RV life across Texas. Whether it’s your first overnight stay or your hundredth, every successful hookup is another mile toward freedom, comfort, and adventure on the open road.
