I am really sorry your experiences with fellow modellers, even snowbirds have been so dismal. In our club there are at least 10 who winter in the US and every one of them are proud members of at least one local club. Some are club instructors some help with field maintenance or events. Just about all I know participate in some way as well as fly. Yes you can join and enjoy being part of a club and fly without AMA membership.

On different visits I have flown as a guest at most of their clubs and some neighbouring clubs as well. I always ask permission, follow the rules and avoid the no fly zones. If they feel the need to inspect my models or have an instructor or someone check me out etc. why would I have a problem with that? When you’re a guest there is no place for attitude or a sense of entitlement.

Dennis