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Pickleball has become one of the most popular ways to stay active and social at RV resorts, and for good reason. It’s easy to learn, fun to play, and doesn’t require a lot of equipment. For RVers who travel often or stay in one place for a season, it offers a perfect mix of movement and connection. A game can be competitive or relaxed, which makes it great for people of all ages and fitness levels.
If you’re spending time at a luxury RV resort for a few weeks or planning to stay the whole season, pickleball is worth trying. Many resorts now feature professional-grade courts and beginner-friendly classes so guests can jump in right away. Whether you're traveling alone, with a partner, or in a group, the social energy of the court pulls people together. Even if you've never held a paddle before, you’ll quickly see why it's becoming a favorite among RVers in Florida and beyond.
Oak Alley RV Resort in Webster, Florida, is a great example of a place that offers a full experience for guests, complete with high-quality pickleball facilities and plenty of chances to join in.
Pickleball is easy to jump into because the gear list is short, and everything is fairly light and portable. That’s ideal when your entire life fits into an RV. You don’t need a ton of space or money to start playing. Here’s a rundown of what you need before your first game.
- Paddle: Paddles come in wood, graphite, or composite. As a beginner, choose one based on comfort and grip. You don’t need the most high-end model to get started.
- Balls: Pickleball uses a plastic ball with holes, kind of like a wiffle ball. Outdoor balls have slightly bigger holes and are a bit heavier than indoor ones. Check with the resort staff to know which type they use on their courts.
- Shoes: Look for court shoes that support quick side-to-side movement. Running shoes won’t cut it here, as they’re built for forward motion.
- Clothing: Pick lightweight, breathable clothes that wick away sweat. Florida’s heat, especially in the summer months, means you’ll want to stay as cool and comfortable as possible.
- Extras: A water bottle and a baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat help with hydration and sun protection.
If you’re not ready to buy your own paddle or balls right away, that’s not a problem. Many resorts, including Oak Alley RV Resort, offer rental or loaner equipment. Starter sets might also be available for purchase onsite, which is a great option if you know you want to keep playing on the road.
Once you gear up and find a court, you’ll see pickleball has some familiar features if you've ever played tennis, ping pong, or badminton. It’s easy to pick up even for total beginners.
Here’s how it works:
- The game is played either as singles or doubles. Doubles is the most popular format among beginners.
- Serves are done underhand and must travel diagonally across the court.
- The ball must bounce once on each side before players are allowed to volley.
- You can only score points when your team is serving.
- Games are usually played to 11 points with a lead of two.
- The area near the net is called the “kitchen” and you’re not allowed to volley from there. This rule keeps things fair and slows down aggressive net moves.
- If a serve hits the net but still lands correctly, it’s called a “let” and the serve is redone.
A basic game starts with a serve from behind the baseline. The opponent lets the ball bounce once before returning it. From there, players go back and forth until someone makes an error. The pace can change quickly, going from a soft dink to a fast-paced volley in just seconds.
Don’t worry about memorizing every single rule before you play. Most people are helpful on the court and will walk you through anything you’re unsure about. New players are always welcome. Start slow, ask questions, and focus on enjoying the game.
When you’re new to pickleball, stick to the fundamentals. Spend your first few games working on your stance. Aim to keep your knees bent, your feet at shoulder-width, and your weight balanced on the balls of your feet. This will help you stay quick and avoid injury.
Your grip should be loose enough to allow flexibility but firm enough to control the paddle. Practice your serving motion and work on consistency more than power. It’s common for new players to focus too much on swinging hard when accuracy is more important.
Taking a beginner class or asking for help from seasoned players goes a long way. At Oak Alley RV Resort, guests can take advantage of lessons and coaching sessions with experienced instructors, which keeps things fun while helping you learn faster.
Playing regularly helps you build confidence. Whether you rally with a partner or just work on drop shots and volleys by yourself, the practice adds up. Watching others play and asking them for pointers is also a great way to learn. You’ll quickly notice small improvements that make the game feel even more rewarding.
Pickleball is just as much about the community as it is about the game. Many RVers say they've made friends on the court that they now meet up with every season. The relaxed atmosphere and casual pace make it easy to strike up a conversation between games or while waiting your turn.
As you join games more often, you may get invited to round robins, clinics, or tournaments. These events make it even easier to socialize and get to know other travelers. It’s not unusual to form long-term friendships over a shared love for this hobby.
Oak Alley RV Resort holds plenty of social courts, tournaments, and fun group meet-ups. Whether you're cheering someone on or getting in your own game, there's always someone to connect with. Unlike more solo pastimes, pickleball welcomes all playing levels and backgrounds. That sense of shared activity makes a big difference when you're living on the road or settling into a new place.
Pickleball is a great way to stay active, but it’s just one of many things to enjoy during your visit. At Oak Alley RV Resort, you can spend your morning on the court, then cool off in the heated pool or jacuzzi. If you're into other games, grab a paddle for bocci ball or head over to the shuffleboard courts.
If you're feeling creative, check out the woodworking shop. It’s fully stocked with table saws, routers, and just about everything you need to bring a practical or creative project to life. Classes are available too, so even beginners can take part.
Whether you're unwinding after a match, walking your dog through the pet-friendly grounds, or joining a casual event at the clubhouse, there's plenty to do. The high-speed internet at each lot also makes it easy to stay connected to family and friends or stream your favorite shows after a long day.
Taking part in the activities and tapping into the sense of community helps make each stay deeper and more rewarding. It’s about more than just playing a game. It’s about enjoying every piece of the travel lifestyle, connecting with people, and creating those small moments that make a trip unforgettable. Whether you're rallying at sunrise or making new friends at sunset, there's no shortage of great memories to create on and off the court.
Wrap up your next adventure by enjoying all the activities and amenities at Oak Alley RV Resort. Whether you're perfecting your pickleball serve or relaxing by the pool, there's something for everyone. Take a look through our RV resort gallery to see everything that awaits you in Webster, Florida. Your next memorable stay is just around the corner.