Designing Idaho’s Best Large-Format Shops for Recreational Vehicles
In a state like Idaho—where outdoor recreation is a way of life—RV and boat ownership is common. What’s less common? Having the right space to store them. While basic garages or portable canopies might suffice in the short term, the long-term solution for protecting high-value recreational vehicles is a custom shop designed specifically for RV and boat storage.
Properly housing these vehicles means thinking beyond square footage. A truly effective RV or boat shop must consider ceiling height, entry clearance, turning radius, slab thickness, and ventilation—not to mention Idaho’s extreme seasonal weather. Whether you’re planning a standalone shop or adding space to an existing outbuilding, smart design choices can protect your investment and reduce long-term maintenance.
Why Custom Storage Beats Standard Options
RVs and boats aren’t just large—they’re expensive, climate-sensitive, and often irregular in shape. A prefab garage or carport often falls short in terms of size, security, and long-term protection.
Benefits of Custom Shop Storage for RVs & Boats:
- Protects against UV damage, snow load, hail, and wind
- Prevents interior heat cycling and moisture buildup
- Keeps vehicle batteries and systems safer in winter
- Adds security, increasing insurance protection
- Can include built-in maintenance and cleaning zones
In addition, large-format shops add measurable resale value to Idaho properties, particularly those catering to outdoor lifestyles or rural land ownership. For more insight, explore our custom shop planning resources to get started.
Key Design Considerations for Oversized Storage
Designing an RV or boat shop is about more than parking space. Every detail affects usability, longevity, and convenience.
Size and Clearance
- Minimum width: 16–20 feet for single-RV bays, 30–40 feet for dual bays
- Length: 35–55 feet to accommodate trailers, fifth-wheels, or pontoons
- Height: 14–16 feet of clear vertical space is typically needed
- Door clearance: Overhead doors must be 12–14 feet tall for most Class A and C RVs
Slab and Structural Engineering
- Reinforced concrete slabs recommended for heavy vehicles (4–6” with rebar)
- Consider thicker slab pads at parking areas or jacks to prevent cracking
- Overhead beams should be engineered for long spans with minimal post intrusion
Access and Maneuverability
- Site grading should support wide, turning entry paths
- Drive-through bay doors can simplify parking and reduce backing hazards
- Add pull-through clearance at least 10 feet beyond the rear of the vehicle
Utilities and Comfort Features
- Install 30-amp or 50-amp power hookups for RV charging
- Include water spigots and utility sinks for cleaning
- Add LED high-bay lighting for winter access and safety
- Optional: radiant heating, vehicle lift zone, or mechanical service area
Looking for sizing inspiration? Our shop size guide helps Idaho landowners match square footage to function.
Sample Layout Planning Table
| Vehicle Type | Recommended Bay Size | Door Clearance | Suggested Features |
| Class A RV | 16’ x 55’ x 16’ | 14’ overhead door | Full slab, 50-amp hookup, roof insulation |
| Travel Trailer | 14’ x 40’ x 14’ | 12’ overhead door | Pull-through doors, water access |
| Pontoon Boat | 14’ x 35’ x 14’ | 12–14’ door | Overhead winch, anti-humidity venting |
| Boat + Tow Vehicle | 30’ x 50’ x 16’ (dual bay) | 14’ double doors | Drive-through, dual utility hookups |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a custom RV or boat shop in Idaho?
Yes, most Idaho counties require building permits for structures over 200 sq. ft., especially with utilities or foundation work. Local codes vary, so always verify.
Will a taller shop increase my property tax significantly?
Not drastically. While square footage and finished features may impact assessment, taller shops often yield higher utility and resale value that offsets the tax bump.
Is indoor RV storage worth it during mild winters?
Even in temperate areas, indoor storage prevents UV fading, seal shrinkage, and battery drain. Snow load and freeze-thaw cycles also affect long-term vehicle durability.
Can these shops double as a workspace or storage?
Absolutely. Many Idaho landowners include tool storage, winter gear closets, or repair zones in their shop layouts for added functionality.
Designed for More Than Just Parking
A custom shop built for RV or boat storage isn’t just a parking spot—it’s a weather shield, security system, and workshop all in one. And when sized correctly and engineered with Idaho’s conditions in mind, it adds real daily convenience and long-term property value.
Cascade Custom Construction designs large-format custom shops that fit not only the dimensions of your vehicles—but the lifestyle around them. Whether you’re storing an RV, jet boat, toy hauler, or trailering gear, the right structure starts with the right builder.
Call Cascade Custom Construction at 866-692-9383 or contact us to begin designing a shop that protects your investment and enhances your land.