Nothing changes the campground experience quite like a golf cart. Once considered a luxury reserved for golfers, today’s golf carts have become one of the most popular campground accessories for RV owners. They’re ideal for exploring large campgrounds, visiting friends, heading to the camp store, or simply enjoying an evening ride without having to hitch up the truck.
For us, a golf cart has become more than a convenience—it’s becoming the next logical step in our camping journey.
Years ago, we purchased e-bikes thinking they would be the perfect campground transportation. They worked well for a while, but after my knee replacement, getting on and off the bike and riding longer distances simply wasn’t as enjoyable. A golf cart offers comfort, shade, room for supplies, and best of all, allows Vicky and me to explore together without worrying about balance or sore knees.
If you’re considering buying a golf cart for camping, here are a few things we’ve learned during our research.
Why Golf Carts Have Become So Popular at Campgrounds
Walk through almost any large RV resort today and you’ll quickly notice something.
Golf carts are everywhere.
They’re no longer used just for hauling golf clubs. Families use them to visit neighbors, attend campground activities, walk their dogs, haul firewood, carry coolers to the beach, or simply enjoy a relaxing evening cruise around the campground.
Modern golf carts have evolved into practical neighborhood and campground vehicles. Many include features such as:
- Comfortable seating for two, four, or six passengers
- LED lighting
- Bluetooth stereos
- Rear cargo beds
- Lift kits
- Larger off-road tires
- Extended-range lithium batteries
- Street-legal LSV (Low-Speed Vehicle) packages
For many RV owners, they’re almost as important as bicycles once were.
Electric or Gas Golf Cart?
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between electric and gas power.
Electric Golf Carts
Electric models continue to dominate campground use for several good reasons.
Advantages
- Nearly silent operation
- No gasoline odors
- Very little maintenance
- Smooth acceleration
- Environmentally friendly
- Easy overnight charging at your campsite
Modern lithium battery technology has dramatically improved driving range while reducing charging times compared to older lead-acid batteries.
Gas Golf Carts
Gas-powered carts still have their place.
They’re especially popular for:
- Hunting property
- Farms
- Large private campgrounds
- Long-distance driving
- Utility work
The downside is increased maintenance, engine noise, and fuel costs.
For most RV campers, electric carts remain the more practical choice.
The Most Popular Golf Cart Brands
The golf cart market has expanded rapidly over the past several years. While dozens of manufacturers now compete worldwide, a handful consistently earn high marks for quality, reliability, dealer support, and resale value.
Club Car
Club Car has been building golf carts for more than six decades and remains one of the most respected names in the industry. Their reputation for durability and long service life makes them a favorite among campgrounds, golf courses, and RV owners alike.
Best for: Long-term ownership and reliability.
E-Z-GO
Known for dependable engineering and comfortable rides, E-Z-GO offers a wide variety of recreational and utility models. Their extensive dealer network also makes parts and service easy to find.
Best for: Campground cruising and neighborhood transportation.
Yamaha
Yamaha has earned a loyal following by producing exceptionally smooth, comfortable golf carts with excellent engineering and dependable performance.
Many owners appreciate Yamaha’s roomy seating and refined ride quality.
Best for: Comfort and reliability.
ICON EV
Although newer than the traditional manufacturers, ICON EV has quickly become popular thanks to its attractive styling and impressive list of standard features.
Many models come equipped with:
- LED lighting
- Digital displays
- Premium wheels
- Rear seat kits
- Street-legal equipment
All at a competitive price point.
Best for: Buyers seeking value and modern features.
Evolution Electric Vehicles
Evolution has become one of the fastest-growing golf cart manufacturers by offering upscale features that were once found only on custom-built carts.
Many RV owners appreciate their:
- Lithium batteries
- Touchscreen displays
- Luxury seating
- Extended range
- Premium suspension
Best for: Luxury campground cruising.
Features Worth Considering
Not every golf cart is built the same. Before making a purchase, think about how you’ll actually use it.
Some features worth considering include:
- Lithium battery system
- Four-passenger seating
- Fold-down rear seat
- Rear cargo platform
- Weather enclosure
- USB charging ports
- LED headlights
- Turn signals
- Lift kit
- Storage compartments
- Canopy roof
- Seat belts
- Larger tires for gravel roads
Buying the features you’ll use most often is usually smarter than adding expensive accessories later.
Campground Rules You Should Know
Before bringing a golf cart on your next trip, check the campground’s rules.
Many parks require:
- Valid driver’s license
- Liability insurance
- Registration sticker
- Minimum driver age
- Night lighting
- Speed limits
- Seat belt use
Some campgrounds prohibit privately owned golf carts altogether and instead rent carts directly to guests.
A quick phone call before your trip can prevent disappointment.
Is a Golf Cart Worth It?
For many RV travelers, absolutely.
If you regularly stay at larger campgrounds or RV resorts, a golf cart can save countless steps while making everyday activities easier and far more enjoyable.
Whether you’re gathering around the evening campfire, taking the grandkids for ice cream, or simply enjoying a sunset ride through the campground, a golf cart often becomes one of those purchases you wonder how you ever lived without.
As for us, we’re still doing our homework before making the investment. Our e-bike experiment taught us that what works for one season of life may not work for the next. Today, comfort and convenience matter a little more than speed, and a golf cart seems like the perfect way for Vicky and me to continue exploring the campgrounds we love for many years to come.
I’d love to hear from you.
Do you own a golf cart? Which brand did you choose, and if you had it to do over again, would you buy the same one? Share your thoughts in the comments—your experience may help another camper make the right decision.
Until next time…
Happy Camping, and remember… we’re not lost, we’re just taking a Cooper Shortcut!
Happy travels,
The Cooper Shortcut Camping Journey Trio 😊 PlusOne!
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