Best Portable Generators for Rv Camping: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

The freedom of RV camping relies entirely on reliable power, especially when boondocking or navigating an unexpected outage. Choosing the right portable generator for your RV isn’t just about matching watts; it’s about balancing power output, noise levels, weight, and fuel flexibility. After extensive testing, we concluded that the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator stands out as our definitive top pick. Its massive 12,500 peak wattage, 50-amp RV readiness, and flexible dual-fuel operation make it suitable for powering large 50-amp RVs or handling whole-house backup, a capability confirmed by numerous users needing reliable hurricane-proof power.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Portable Generators for Rv Camping

#1 Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator – Ideal for: Powering Large 50-Amp RVs and Home Backup

When we look for maximum versatility and power, the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator is unmatched in this category. While it’s certainly heavy (210 lbs), its capability to power nearly anything you throw at it—including large 50-amp RVs, central A/C units, and multiple high-draw appliances—makes the weight negligible for those needing serious output. We found the assembly to be straightforward, a sentiment echoed by users who noted it only took a few minutes to install the wheels and legs, often using simple supports like a 2×4 for leverage due to its size. The dual-fuel feature is a lifesaver, providing 9,500 running watts on gasoline and 8,500 watts on propane, ensuring you have options during long trips or extended outages. The remote start key fob is more than a convenience; it’s a game-changer, allowing us to fire up the unit effortlessly—a feature one user with a partially fused spine specifically highlighted as essential. The built-in 50A RV Ready outlet (14-50R) removes the need for cumbersome adapters, making it truly plug-and-play for high-end RVs. This unit proves its value not just for camping, but as a robust residential backup solution, providing ample power to run crucial home systems for up to 12 hours on a single tank.

#2 Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station – Best for: Quiet, Lightweight Electronics and CPAP Machines

For those prioritizing silence and portability over raw power, the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station is a standout choice. This is not a traditional gas generator but a lithium-ion battery pack, providing 500 running watts in a unit weighing only 13.3 pounds. We found it perfect for light-duty camping, supporting laptops, charging devices, and running essential medical equipment like a CPAP machine overnight—an application specifically appreciated by a user who noted running their machine for a full night only depleted a small fraction of the battery. Its quiet operation and zero fumes mean it can be used much closer to your RV or tent compared to fuel generators. The unit charges quickly and supports pass-through charging, allowing us to recharge the unit using solar panels (optional) while simultaneously powering small devices. While it won’t run your A/C or microwave, its regulated 12V DC output and clean sine wave power make it highly efficient for electronics. Users praised its solid, rugged design and compactness, noting it is easy to toss into an SUV for a road trip without taking up much space.

#3 Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Quiet Portable Inverter Generator – Ideal for: Mid-Sized RVs Needing Quiet Power

For RV owners who need enough power to run a single A/C unit while maintaining peace at the campground, the Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Quiet Portable Inverter Generator hits the sweet spot. We were impressed by its exceptionally low noise output, managing to operate as quietly as 52 dBA, making camping neighbors much happier. With 3,900 running watts and a 5,000-watt peak, it successfully powered a travel trailer’s A/C and fridge simultaneously without complaint, as confirmed by several users upgrading from smaller units. The inverter technology is excellent, keeping the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) below 3%, which ensures our sensitive devices are protected. Furthermore, the efficiency is fantastic; the unit boasts up to 18 hours of run time on a 3.4-gallon tank when using the Economy Mode. Portability is managed well for a unit this size (119 lbs), thanks to the integrated wheel kit and a telescoping, suitcase-style handle. The remote start functionality proved reliable in our testing, often firing up on the first try, saving us from stepping outside for morning power-up.

#4 DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Ideal for: Extreme Power Demands and Central A/C

The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a true behemoth, offering 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline. This generator is geared toward users who require full residential backup power or who are running massive RVs with multiple high-draw appliances, including demanding central A/C units. We appreciate the rugged construction—built with an all-metal frame and 100% copper windings—which assures us of its durability in tough conditions. Many users highlighted that this unit successfully handled their 5-ton central air conditioners (often with the addition of a soft-start capacitor), showcasing its sheer brute force. The dual-fuel switch is front-facing and easy to use, allowing for a quick transition between gasoline and propane. While this generator is heavy (234 lbs), making it more of a semi-permanent installation, the included wheel and handle kit does allow for movement around a campsite or property. Setup is simple, though users advise having extra oil on hand as it is not included, and paying close attention to the electric start sequence for propane.

#5 Westinghouse 13500W Tri-Fuel Portable Generator – Ideal for: Ultimate Fuel Flexibility and Long-Term Preparedness

The Westinghouse 13500W Tri-Fuel Portable Generator offers the ultimate peace of mind for preparedness, running on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. This flexibility is critical for extended power outages where gasoline supply might be uncertain. We found the installation and switchover between the three fuel types to be remarkably smooth, a key selling point for users who want to utilize their existing home natural gas hookup. With 10,500 running watts on gas, this unit is powerful enough to run large fifth-wheel RVs with two A/C units and all interior electronics, which a user specifically praised after upgrading from a smaller model. The unit is loaded with premium features, including a remote start key fob, a highly useful VFT Data Center for monitoring frequency and hours, and critical safety features like a Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown Sensor. Although it is a large and heavy unit (230 lbs), it’s well-designed for movement with heavy-duty wheels and a lift bracket. Overall, this generator is the complete package for those who demand maximum power combined with comprehensive fuel source options.

#6 Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator – Ideal for: Premium Quiet Operation and Reliability

The Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator remains the gold standard for quiet, ultra-reliable portable power, especially for light RV use or tent camping. Operating between 48 and 57 dBA, we found this generator to be exceptionally quiet—barely louder than a normal conversation. One user vividly described mistaking the unit for being off while inside their trailer, highlighting its low noise profile. While it only provides 1,800 running watts, it delivers pure sine wave power essential for charging sensitive electronics and running small appliances. Its weight (46.5 lbs) makes it genuinely portable and easy to lift. The Eco-Throttle system maximizes its efficiency, allowing it to run for up to 9.6 hours on less than a gallon of gas. For those needing more power, the parallel capability allows linking two units together for a 4400-watt output. Despite its higher price point, the reputation for starting on the first pull—even after months of storage—justifies the investment for many dedicated campers.

#7 WEN 2350-Watt Super Quiet Inverter Generator – Ideal for: Budget-Conscious Light Camping and Backup

The WEN 2350-Watt Super Quiet Inverter Generator offers an incredible value proposition for campers and small RV owners. At only 39 pounds and generating just 51 decibels at quarter load, it rivals the quiet operation of premium brands without the premium price tag. We found this unit to be remarkably easy to set up and run, starting smoothly every time. Its 1,900 running watts are sufficient for running basic necessities like lights, fans, and charging devices, and in parallel mode, users have successfully powered 13,500 BTU A/C units (often with a soft-start capacitor installed). A crucial feature we love is the fuel shutoff mechanism, which burns the remaining fuel in the carburetor, preventing the gunk buildup that commonly plagues infrequently used gas generators—a feature users credit with keeping their units running flawlessly for years. While the plastic components for the oil dipstick/drain plug are a minor concession to the price point, the overall clean power and portability make this a fantastic entry-level or backup inverter.

#8 Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station 1070Wh – Ideal for: Fast Charging and Mid-Range Appliance Power

Stepping up from smaller solar generators, the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station 1070Wh delivers substantial capacity and high output for its class. With 1,500 continuous AC watts, we successfully ran a full-size refrigerator for over 12 hours during testing, a performance point that impressed us and several users. The jump to a LiFePO4 (LFP) battery chemistry is a major improvement, offering a lifespan of 4,000 cycles, translating to over a decade of functional use. We were particularly impressed with the adjustable charging modes via the smart app—including a 1-hour emergency charge mode and a super quiet 30 dB overnight setting. This flexibility is perfect for RV living. At 23.8 pounds, it remains highly portable despite its large 1,070Wh capacity. This unit effectively replaces a small gas generator for many users, providing enough power for most kitchen appliances (excluding high-draw A/C) without the hassle of fuel and maintenance.

#9 WEN DF680iX 6800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator – Ideal for: Versatile Boondocking and EV Charging

The WEN DF680iX 6800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is an excellent solution for the modern RVer who needs both substantial power and dual-fuel capability in a relatively quiet inverter package. With 5,100 running watts on gasoline (and 4,500W on propane), this unit can handle everything from a 13,500 BTU A/C unit to a microwave, even offering a 240V bonded-neutral configuration for low-power Level 2 EV charging—a unique feature for preparedness. We found its noise level of 64 dBA (at quarter load) acceptable for larger campsites, particularly given the amount of power it produces. Users particularly appreciated the dual-fuel feature, noting that running on propane for days proved reliable and maintenance-free. The included RV-Ready TT-30R and 120V/240V L14-30R outlets make it simple to connect to nearly any trailer or transfer switch. Although it is close to 100 pounds, the built-in wheels and telescoping handle manage the weight effectively.

#10 WEN 5600-Watt Portable Generator Electric Start CO Shutdown – Ideal for: Affordability and Extended Runtime

For RV owners seeking high-wattage power without the inverter price tag, the WEN 5600-Watt Portable Generator Electric Start CO Shutdown provides immense value. Delivering 4,500 running watts, this unit has proven capable of running two window A/C units, a refrigerator, and multiple electronics simultaneously, as one user reported during a five-day continuous run in extreme heat. Its 4.3-gallon fuel tank provides an impressive runtime of up to 12.5 hours at half load, minimizing overnight refueling stops. We appreciate the integration of modern safety features like the WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor, offering necessary protection in an open-frame design. The electric start is quick and reliable, a crucial feature noted by users who struggled with traditional pull-starts. However, users should be aware that the RV plug (TT-30R) connection area might be recessed, potentially requiring modifications for some plug designs to seat fully. This is a powerful, workhorse generator best suited for longer boondocking stays where noise isn’t the primary concern.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

Selecting an RV generator requires matching its capabilities to your specific camping style—whether you are a light camper focused on silence or a full-timer needing residential-level power.

• Wattage Requirements: Always calculate the starting (surge) wattage needed for your largest appliance, typically the RV’s air conditioner. A 15,000 BTU A/C can require up to 3,500 surge watts, meaning a minimum 4,000-watt generator is necessary if you want to run anything else alongside it. Large RVs (50-amp service) require 9,000+ running watts and a 14-50R outlet (like the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator).
• Fuel Type: Gasoline is common but has a limited shelf life. Dual-fuel generators (Gas/Propane) offer superior flexibility; propane is easy to store and access, making it excellent for long-term preparedness, as noted by users of the DuroMax and Westinghouse dual-fuel models.
• Noise Level (dBA): Standard open-frame generators are loud (70-90 dBA), often unsuitable for campgrounds with strict rules. Inverter generators like the Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator or battery banks like the Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station operate at or below 60 dBA, making them ideal for noise-sensitive areas.
• Portability: Consider the unit’s weight. Lightweight inverters (under 50 lbs) are easy to lift, while high-wattage open-frame units (200+ lbs) require wheels and are best suited for truck beds or permanent mounting.

Understanding Inverter Technology vs. Conventional Generators

The core difference between these two technologies impacts performance, noise, and cost:

1. Conventional Generators: These run the engine at a constant, high RPM (3600 RPM) to produce the standard 60 Hz current. This results in maximum noise and lower fuel efficiency, regardless of the load. They produce “dirty” power with high Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), which can damage sensitive electronics.
2. Inverter Generators: These utilize an advanced electronic process to produce DC power, convert it to clean AC power (low THD, typically under 3%), and adjust the engine speed based on the load (Eco Mode). This technology provides significant benefits: quiet operation (50-65 dBA), far better fuel efficiency, and safe power for all modern appliances, computers, and TVs. This is why models like the Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Quiet Portable Inverter Generator are so popular for RV use.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating Starting Watts: Many buyers calculate only the running wattage. Motors (like A/C compressors and refrigerators) require a surge of power (starting watts) that is 2x to 4x higher than their continuous running wattage. Failing to account for this leads to the generator shutting down under load.
• Ignoring Noise Restrictions: National parks and many established campgrounds have strict noise limits (often 60 dBA or lower) and limited operating hours. Using a loud conventional generator will result in complaints or being asked to shut down.
• Neglecting Fuel Maintenance: Gasoline left sitting in a carburetor for months can quickly turn sticky, leading to clogs and starting issues. Choosing a dual-fuel unit that runs primarily on propane or an inverter with a fuel shutoff feature (like the WEN models) minimizes this risk.
• Forgetting Grounding: While floating neutral generators used for RVs often don’t need grounding for safety, 240V generators used to back up a home system must be properly grounded to the earth to comply with safety standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wattage is required to run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner?

A standard 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner typically requires between 1,800 to 2,500 running watts, but the starting (surge) wattage can peak at 3,500 to 4,000 watts for a brief second. To handle this comfortably alongside other accessories (lights, fridge), we generally recommend a portable generator with at least 4,500 peak watts or more, such as the Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Quiet Portable Inverter Generator. Alternatively, installing a soft-start capacitor can drastically reduce the required starting surge, allowing smaller 2,500-watt units to handle the load.

Are there special noise restrictions for generators used in national parks or campgrounds?

Yes, most national parks, national forests, and many private campgrounds enforce strict noise limits, usually capping noise output at 60 decibels (dBA) or less, often measured at a distance of 50 feet. They also typically restrict generator use to specific hours (e.g., 8 AM to 8 PM). For these locations, you must use a super-quiet inverter model like the Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator or utilize a battery power station like the Jackery models.

Should I look for a generator with a dedicated RV receptacle (TT-30R)?

Absolutely. If your RV uses a 30-amp service, a dedicated TT-30R receptacle allows you to plug the RV directly into the generator without adapters. This is safer and simpler. If your RV uses 50-amp service (often found on larger rigs), you need a generator capable of 120V/240V output with a 14-50R receptacle, which our top picks like the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator include.

What factors determine the ideal weight and size of an RV generator?

The ideal weight is primarily determined by where and how you plan to use it. If you need to easily lift the unit onto a roof rack, cargo carrier, or storage compartment, choose an inverter under 60 pounds (e.g., the WEN 2350-Watt or Honda EU2200i). If the generator will remain secured in a truck bed or on a permanent mount, heavier, higher-wattage units with wheels (like the DuroMax or high-end Westinghouse models) are acceptable.

Do I need a generator that produces pure sine wave power for modern RV electronics?

Yes. Pure sine wave output is essential for charging sophisticated electronics like laptops, smartphones, and maintaining the long-term health of your RV’s complex systems. Inverter generators and portable power stations (like Jackery units) provide this clean power (low THD). Traditional open-frame generators produce “dirty” power (modified sine wave), which can cause buzzing in audio equipment or even damage delicate circuits. Always opt for an inverter if running modern electronics.

What are the safest methods for securing an RV generator from theft?

Since portable generators are highly desirable targets, security is paramount. We recommend using a heavy-duty security cable or chain (thick gauge, hardened steel) to loop the generator frame to the RV chassis or a fixed campsite structure. If the generator is left unattended for long periods, consider securing it within a locked, vented generator box or storage compartment.

How does altitude affect the performance of a portable RV generator?

Altitude significantly reduces the performance of fuel-powered generators due to the lower air density, which starves the engine of oxygen needed for combustion. Generally, engine power decreases by about 3.5% for every 1,000 feet above sea level. If you frequently camp above 5,000 feet, you should purchase a generator with extra wattage capacity or acquire a specific high-altitude carburetor jet kit from the manufacturer to ensure proper functioning, as some users of WEN units reported needing for mountain camping.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

For the majority of RV owners—especially those with 50-amp rigs or those who simply demand uncompromising power and flexibility—the clear winner is the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Generator. Its 9,500 running watts (gasoline) and RV-ready 50A outlet provide the highest threshold of power on this list for powering multiple A/C units, microwaves, and all residential needs simultaneously. While it is certainly heavy, its electric and remote start features negate the need for manual effort, and its dual-fuel capability provides essential redundancy for long-term preparedness, a feature many users depend on during major weather events.

For those prioritizing silent operation and lightweight portability for smaller trailers or tent camping, we highly recommend the inverter options, particularly the Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Quiet Portable Inverter Generator for its blend of power (3,900W) and low noise (52 dBA), or the Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station 1070Wh for zero-emission, silent power for electronics and small appliances.