Why You Should Join the Elks Lodge (Especially If You RV!)
St George Dixie Elks Lodge #1743
Sure, the Elks are known for affordable RV parking at many of their lodges (a HUGE bonus for travelers like us), but that’s just the beginning. What really makes the Elks special is the heart behind the organization. It's a nationwide community with a big mission: to serve others.
So, what do the Elks actually do?
A LOT.
Every Elks Lodge is deeply rooted in its local community and takes giving back seriously. Across the country, Elks are making a real difference by:
Supporting Veterans: Many lodges host veteran-focused events, donate essential supplies, and support local VA hospitals. Some even help furnish homes for veterans in need.
Helping Kids Thrive: From scholarships to backpack drives, Elks are there to make sure kids have the tools they need to succeed whether it’s school supplies, coats in the winter, or food on the weekends.
Providing Emergency Assistance: When natural disasters strike, Elks are often among the first to step in with supplies, volunteers, and funding for recovery efforts.
Community Projects: Lodges build parks, support first responders, help families in crisis, and fund projects that bring lasting value to their towns.
And the best part? This is funded by member dues and charitable events, not government money. When you join the Elks, your membership dollars return to your local community and the communities you visit on the road.
Elks Lodge #1119, Las Cruces, NM
For RVers, It’s the Best of Both Worlds
As full-time RVers, we’ve stayed at Elks Lodges from coast to coast. Some offer full hookups, others dry camping, but they all come with the same warm welcome and sense of belonging. It’s like finding a little slice of home wherever we park. And the knowledge that our camping donation and fees support everything from scholarships to veteran housing? That’s the cherry on top.
So, if you're looking for more than just a parking spot, craving purpose, people, and a way to give back while you travel, consider joining the Elks Lodge. It's one of the best decisions we've made on the road.
St George Dixie Elks Lodge #1743
How to Join the Elks Lodge
Joining the Elks Lodge is easier than you might think! You’ll need to be a U.S. citizen over 21 who believes in God and is sponsored by a current member. Many lodges offer open house events or social nights where you can meet members and learn more. Once sponsored, you’ll go through a brief application and orientation process. After that, you’re in and you’ll have access to thousands of lodges across the country, plus a welcoming community wherever you travel.
Elks Lodge Membership Dues
Elks membership dues are surprisingly affordable, typically ranging from $50 to $200 per year, depending on the lodge. The cost can vary based on the amenities offered. Some lodges have pools, restaurants, lounges, or other perks that may affect annual dues. Each lodge sets its rates, so it's a good idea to check with the specific lodge you're interested in for exact pricing. We are members of the Tampa Elks, and our dues are $127 per year.
Tampa Elks Lodge Veteran Fundraiser
Tampa elks Meetup & Fundraiser
We’ve hosted fundraisers for Homes for Our Troops at our home lodge in Tampa and have seen firsthand just how generous and welcoming the Elks community truly is. We’re planning another fundraiser in January 2026, and we’d love to see you there!
If you’ve been thinking about joining the Elks, you don’t want to miss this event. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet our lodge members, ask questions, and experience the spirit of service and camaraderie that makes this organization so special.
Join the Today is Someday newsletter below for details on the event when it opens. Tickets for this event always sell out fast!
Meet Stacy! Stacy and her husband, Phil, are a wanderlust couple who have been roaming the great USA for an epic 7 years! They ditched the daily grind to embark on thrilling adventures and inspire fellow dreamers to chase their travel dreams. Curious about how they do it? Check out their awesome YouTube channel, Today is Someday, where they're spilling all the secrets to living a life on the move. Get ready to pack your bags and join them on this incredible journey.