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On this week’s episode of the RV Atlas podcast we are excited to welcome Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial on the Road back on the show to talk about her big summer RV trip to Quebec. Her family stayed at the Montreal South KOA Journey and enjoyed several days in the most European of Canada’s great cities. To listen to Jeremy interview Gretchen please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your shows. Or read on below for a guest post from Gretchen.

People often tout Montreal as “the most European of North American cities,” and indeed a walk along the cobblestone in the older parts of the city can make you feel like you’ve been transported both across the ocean and back in time. But Montreal also feels vibrantly modern and distinctly Canadian, and its location means it’s within easy driving distance for people in much of the US and Canada. Our family spent a few days in Montreal this past summer as part of a longer Canadian road trip, and we all left loving Montreal and wishing we could stay longer. We stayed at the Montreal South KOA Journey and it was a very good basecamp for our Canadian adventure.

The Montreal South KOA JourneyThe Montreal South KOA Journey is 15 miles from the city and bills itself as the closest campground to Montreal. It’s big rig-friendly and easy to access from the highway. As first-time visitors to Quebec (and non-French speakers), we appreciated the friendly and helpful bilingual staff.

The sites are mostly a grid of standard gravel pull-throughs, but there are a good number of trees for shade and decent separation between the sites. Everything at this KOA is beautifully done and well-maintained: the bathrooms are nicely decorated and sparkling clean, there’s a small but lovely pool at the front of the campground, and the huge patio sites are probably the nicest I’ve ever seen. Sites start at around $70CAD for a basic pull-through and go up to over $100 for those patio sites.

The biggest thing to think about with urban RVing, though, is always how to actually get into the city to see the sites. The drive into Montreal from the KOA can be less than 30 minutes, depending on when you go. We did make the drive once, but we found both parking and traffic to be big challenges, so we did most of our travel via Montreal’s excellent public transportation system. There are a few different subway and rail stations within easy striking distance of the KOA; we made the 20 minute drive to the REM Brossard Station and took the new light rail from there into the city. There’s plenty of surface parking at this station, the trains are clean and comfortable, and, as a bonus, you get wonderful views of the St. Lawrence River and Montreal’s skyline as you approach the city.

Fun Things to do in MontrealNotre-Dame BasilicaThis impressive neo-gothic cathedral in the heart of Old Montreal dates to 1824 and is a must see for first time visitors to the city. It’s open to visitors for self-guided tours during the day and at night becomes a canvas for “the AURA Experience” light and music show. Our attempt to attend the nighttime show was thwarted by a power outage in the area, but we very much enjoyed gawking at the impressive art and architecture by day. The entire area is worth spending time exploring; Old Montreal is the part of the city that feels the most European, with its old buildings and cobblestone streets. It’s always busy, and there’s always something going on; we found public art and live music everywhere we turned.

Pointe-a-callierePointe-a-calliere, Montreal’s museum of archaeology and history, might just be the coolest museum I’ve ever been to. It’s built on the site where the city’s first European settlers lived in the 17th Century, and the museum’s first level allows you to actually walk through the preserved archaeological remnants of the old city and see evidence of how it changed throughout its early history. Another exhibit preserves the remains of Fort Ville-Marie, the actual spot where the city was founded as a Catholic mission, under a glass floor that visitors can walk across. There’s an excellent multi-media show (in French and English) about the history of Montreal. Our eleven year old loved the immersive, hands-on “Pirates or Privateers” exhibit. And make sure to end your visit by going to the top of the museum’s tower for awesome views of the city.

Montreal Botanical GardenMontreal has a world-class botanical garden with twenty themed gardens to explore. We especially enjoyed the bonsai collection and koi pond in the Japanese Garden and the highly Instagrammable lake with bridges and a waterfall in the Chinese Garden.

The Montreal Museum of Fine ArtsMontreal’s maze-like art museum sprawls across a few different buildings, some connected via underground hallways. It’s Canada’s largest art museum and a great place to spend a few hours. We definitely didn’t get to all of it, but we saw a special exhibit on Flemish masterworks as well as checking out the extensive collection of Canadian art and a fun pop art gallery.

Where to Eat in MontrealOne could devote an entire vacation to exploring Montreal’s food scene, and sadly we didn’t get to sample as much as we’d have liked, but we did enjoy brunch one day at Maggie Oakes in the Old Port area. They have a great patio overlooking Place Jacques-Cartier, perfect for people-watching (and the food was good, too!) And then, just around the corner from the Museum of Fine Arts, we stopped in at Burger Bar Crescent, where the menu features some creative burger, poutine, and mac and cheese choices. Not as much people watching here, but it does have a great view of a giant painting of Montreal’s own Leonard Cohen on the side of the nearby building.

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We are back from the 2024 Hershey RV Show, and we have some trends, favorite RVs, and other show highlights to share!

First, we want to say thank you! We appreciated the many people who stopped our table who read the blog, listen to the podcast, or own our books. You are all so great! We love this little community. It was also great to meet so many new people!

We also had fun sharing our “Where Should We Camp Next?” books and debuting our RV Atlas Coffee Company! Soon, you’ll have a chance to buy your very own bag of one of four special blends (Black Tank Blend, Camp Mojo, Morning Campfire, and Boondocker’s Delight). Check back in early October!

To hear more about the Hershey RV show, click play on the media player above–or look for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast app!

5 Trends from the 2024 Hershey RV ShowThere is a LOT to see at the Hershey RV Show, and we tried to take it all in! Here are a few trends we noticed from the show:

Small, European-style motorhomes are becoming more popular. Of course, we may have noticed more of these because we fell in love with this style of travel on our Iceland trip. Either way, we really liked many of the petite Class Cs we saw at Hershey and the new features and floorplans. Grand Design’s new Lineage is a great example of this! We also swoon over Leisure Travel Vans.

More manufacturers are doing off-site events in conjunction with the Hershey RV show. Space is tight at Hershey, and some manufacturers either can’t get a space or can’t get enough space, so why not take the party elsewhere? Some manufacturers offered treats and special deals to lure visitors to their off-site events. If you go in future years, look into these options, especially if you are looking for models, manufacturers, and dealers who won’t be at the show.

Pop-up, hybrid, and truck campers are not going away. Rumors have long been that these small segments of the RV market will die out, but they simply aren’t. They are small but mighty. We saw a lot of variety across these segments! Whether these are for the first timers or someone who wants to camp in something that feels like “camping,” these units still have a solid market.

Independent custom van builders are on the rise. While there were only a few at Hershey, we’ve noticed this trend across the U.S. These people take popular Class B van chassis and build them out with custom interiors and amenities. There is a boisterous market for these independent upstarts who are doing really cool things!

People love their RVs and love RVing! It was so great to hear from so many people who were truly happy with their rigs. While the industry has faced some complaints about quality, especially in recent years, the majority of people who own RVs love them and keep buying them.

Our Top RV Picks from the 2024 Hershey RV ShowWe saw so many great RVs at Hershey! While there weren’t a ton of new things that really stood out as innovative, manufacturers are continuing to improve on the tried and true, while adding awesome new features and designs. Here are just a few of our favorites:

Flagstaff Shamrock 233SEach time we step in this three-bed hybrid model, we think, “We should have bought this!” The Flagstaff Shamrock 233S is an older floorplan that never ceases to impress us! It’s also available as the Rockwood Roo 233S.

It’s impossible to find three queen beds in a 25-foot trailer…but that’s the magic of a hybrid! The 233S has three flip-out queen beds, giving you an unbelievable amount of sleeping space in a fairly short RV. It feels like a 32-foot model thanks to all of the space!

Plus, the hybrid beds still give you the connection to the outdoors that so many of us enjoy while camping! If you’re a family looking for a hybrid, check this one out!

Alliance Delta 321BHThe Alliance Delta 321BH really impresses in so many ways! The layout is great, the bunkhouse is great, the kitchen setup is great, and the decor is really appealing. It is on the longer side, at nearly 37 feet in length.

If you’re tired of the gray and white interiors, make sure to check out Alliance trailers! They have a mix of dark woods and lighter flooring and walls, which feels light and fresh.

Winnebago Echo and Jayco GraniteWe spent a ton of time looking at the smaller Class Bs, as we mentioned above. Along with the Grand Design Lineage, the Winnebago EKKO series and the new Jayco Granite Ridge really hit the mark!

The rear twin beds are a game changer in a small space! You can add a cushion to the middle to make a king, or enjoy the ease of entry into the twins, with no need to climb over each other.

These “adventure” Class Bs are designed for off-grid camping and come with a lot of impressive amenities to make those stays comfortable!

inTech Black Wing The inTech Black Wing toy hauler made its debut at the Hershey RV Show. We always love inTech’s designs. This one has a cool triangular front cap with two layers of storage, which you can see here:

While the layout is relatively standard to what you’d expect in a toy hauler, inTech has some cool features, including the 40-gallon fuel station.

We really liked the interior, as it felt quite “lux” with sleek, gold hardware, glossy cabinetry, and more. This is a unique toy hauler because it puts those rugged off-grid components in such a sleek package!

Brinkley Model G Fifth-Wheel Toy HaulerThere’s a lot of hype around the Brinkley brand, and you really have to walk in one to fully get it! Wow. These do live up to their reputation.

The Brinkley Model G is definitely impressive. The kitchens are made for people who truly love to cook. If you’re a foodie who wants a REAL kitchen, check out this manufacturer!

There’s no space wasted, and there are a ton of cool innovations you won’t find elsewhere, like flip-up countertops. One cool feature is that the garage of this toy hauler is really outfitted to be used in so many ways. It could be a work space, a party room (with a wet bar and wine fridge!), and/or a garage.

Airstream Trade Wind 25FBYou really can’t go wrong with an Airstream. We really loved the Trade Wind 25FB‘s rear cargo door, which really makes us swoon! It lets in so much light and has a screen, so you can get a fresh breeze. We seriously spent a lot of time hanging out here since we loved this rear door!

We also love the front twin beds!

Final Thoughts on the Hershey RV ShowWe saw many more great models than we’ve shared here! Head to our Instagram to find some model walkthrough videos on Reels. And look for us on TikTok, where we share more great RVing tips and tricks. Then, if you couldn’t make it to the Hershey RV Show, check out one near you, and let us know what rigs you loved!

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Welcome to another Q&A episode of The RV Atlas podcast. With summer winding down and fall camping season on the horizon, we took a deep dive into our RV Atlas Facebook group to answer some of the most engaging questions posed by fellow campers. Whether you’re curious about campfire equipment, RV toilet paper, or unique camping destinations, this episode covers it all.

We chat about some of the hottest camping gear—like Yeti’s new cast iron skillets—and discuss whether high-end cookware is worth the investment for your camping setup. We also dive into the age-old debate of Solo Stove vs. Breeo and cover important topics like roadside assistance, paddle boarding at Assateague Island, and campgrounds near airports for those who love watching planes take off. So, pull up a chair and join us around the digital campfire.

Should You Buy Yeti’s New Cast Iron Skillet?Question: Yeti has a new line of cast iron skillets priced between $150-$250. Would you buy one for your camp cooking setup, or is it not even an option at that price point?Answer: When Yeti released their new line of cast iron skillets, the RV Atlas Facebook group had mixed reactions. While Yeti is known for its high-end outdoor gear, the consensus in our community was that the price point is steep, especially when beloved and reliable brands like Lodge offer durable cast iron for a fraction of the cost. Many group members, joked about the burdens of maintaining multiple cast iron pans. Ultimately, the general sentiment was that while Yeti’s skillets might be beautiful, most campers would rather stick with more affordable and equally functional options.

Takeaway: If you’re passionate about quality and have the budget, Yeti’s skillet could be a fun addition to your gear. But for most, sticking with a trusted and less expensive brand like Lodge seems to be the way to go.

Solo Stove vs. Brio: Which is Better?Question: Which is better for campfires and cooking, Solo Stove or Breeo?Answer: Both the Solo Stove and Breeo have become popular choices for campers, and after using both extensively, we can confidently say that each has its strengths. The Solo Stove, which is made overseas, is lighter, heats up faster, and becomes smokeless more quickly—perfect for those who want an easy-to-transport option. On the other hand, Breeo, which is made in Lancaster, PA, is built like a tank. It’s heavier and takes longer to heat up, but it’s an incredibly durable choice for those who want a more permanent setup at home. If you’re planning on bringing your fire pit on camping trips, the Solo Stove might be the better option due to its portability.

Takeaway: Solo Stove is ideal for portability and quick heating, while Breeo offers more durability and a robust build for those who prefer a sturdy option for home use.

Can You Go Paddle boarding at Assateague?Question: Can you paddle board at Assateague Island?Answer: Assateague Island in Maryland is a popular camping destination known for its wild ponies and beautiful beaches. Paddle boarding is absolutely an option, but you’ll want to head to the national seashore’s bayside area for the best experience. While the state park offers stunning beachfront camping, the ocean tides can be unpredictable, making it less ideal for paddle boarding. The bayside, on the other hand, offers calm waters perfect for paddling, and there are even concessions for renting equipment if you don’t have your own.

Takeaway: Yes, you can paddle board at Assateague, but the bayside of the national seashore is the safer and more convenient option.

Do You Really Need RV-Specific Toilet Paper?Question: Do I need RV-specific toilet paper, or can I use regular septic-friendly toilet paper in my 2009 RV?Answer: Ah, the great toilet paper debate! While many experienced RVers will tell you that septic-friendly toilet paper works just as well as RV-specific brands, we’ve always used RV toilet paper and never had a clog. For peace of mind, RV-specific toilet paper is designed to break down quickly, reducing the risk of blockages in your system. While it may be a bit more expensive, it’s worth the extra cost for worry-free camping.

Takeaway: You don’t have to use RV-specific toilet paper, but it’s a safe bet if you want to avoid any plumbing mishaps.

Should I Get AAA or Another Roadside Assistance Plan for My RV?Question: Do I need AAA, or can I rely on my current car insurance for roadside assistance?Answer: We’ve always relied on roadside assistance through our car and RV insurance providers, like Geico and Progressive, and they’ve come through for us in many situations. Roadside assistance programs vary widely, so it’s crucial to ask detailed questions about coverage, especially if you have a towable RV. Some programs might only cover your tow vehicle, leaving your RV stranded in the event of a breakdown. Triple-check your policy to make sure both your RV and vehicle are covered in case of emergency.

Takeaway: Look closely at your insurance provider’s roadside assistance offerings before deciding whether you need an additional plan like AAA.

Thanks for joining us for this Q&A episode of The RV Atlas. We love hearing from our community and answering your questions, whether they’re about camping gear, destinations, or the ins and outs of RV life. If you want to be part of the conversation, head over to The RV Atlas Facebook group, where nearly 20,000 members share tips, advice, and stories about life on the road and at the campground. Got a question of your own? Ask it in the group, and maybe we’ll answer it on the next episode. See you at the campground!

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On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas we have several big announcements about our table at the 2024 Hershey RV Show–and we are revisiting “The Future of RVing” podcast that we did ten years ago to see what we got right and what we got wrong.

We will be back for the entire run of the 2024 Hersey RV show selling and signing all four of our “Where Should We Camp Next?” including the original, National Parks, Camping 101, and our latest–Budget Camping. We will also have “Where Should We Camp Next? mugs and a limited number of stickers–and our first book “RV Vacations.”

But that’s not all folks! We are also debuting a new adventure! The RV Atlas Coffee Company will be making its debut at Hershey with a limited sample run of our first four blends (Black Tank Blend, Camp Mojo, Morning Campfire, and Boondocker’s Delight). These are our favorite coffees in the world and we drink them at home and at the campground on every single trip.

On this week’s episode we also head back ten years to review a podcast that we did about “The Future of RVing” and we talk about what we got wrong (The Retro Revival!) and what we got right (more winter camping!) and we make bold predictions for the next ten years of RV life. Listen to the show using the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows! The future of RVing looks bright and we hope to see you in it. And as always we hope to see you at the campground!

Jeremy & Stephanie

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On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are welcoming guest correspondents Dan and Jess Steck for a terrific review of Jellystone Park Petoskey in Michigan. The Stecks recently returned from an epic RV trip to Michigan with their two daughters Penny and Molly, and their two lovable dogs. To listen to our interview with Dan and Jess please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Or simply read on right here for their guest blog post about Jellystone Park Petoskey.

Jellystone Park Petoskey Location and OverviewIf you are looking for a family-friendly RV resort in Northern Michigan, look no further than Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Petoskey, Michigan. With spacious RV sites and an impressive array of cabins, this campground hits the sweet spot as both a full service RV resort and an excellent basecamp for exploring the area. Keep reading to find out what makes this park the perfect destination for balancing relaxation and exploration.

Jellystone Park Petoskey is situated only a few minutes drive from the shores of Lake Michigan in beautiful Northwestern Michigan. Bring your tent or RV of any size (this campground is very big rig friendly!) and enjoy spacious sites surrounded by tall pines and birch trees. There is a large variety of camping cabins available from one room rustic cabins to camping lodges featuring roof top decks or outdoor TVs and fireplaces! These diverse accommodations make this a wonderful pick if you are traveling with a family who may not be bringing an RV along with them.

Jellystone Park Petoskey: Attractions, Amenities, and Overall VibeThe grounds of Jellystone Park Petoskey are impeccably cared for and quite lovely. Flower boxes and flowerbeds overflow with colorful blooms and the campground staff can be seen caring for the property throughout the day. I dare say we are talking about a Fort WIlderness level of cleanliness here. Throughout our stay we were continually impressed by the cleanliness of the campground. The campground boasts one of the most lovely seasonal sections we have ever seen. We recognized several campground staff with RVs in this section and you can see that the care they put into the campground is mirrored in the beauty of their seasonal sites.

You will be hard-pressed to find yourself or your kids saying “I’m bored” during your stay here. Kids young and old have access to a great array of activities. Available to you all day are jumping pads, a playground, a basketball court, a beach volleyball court and everyone’s new favorite hobby–pickleball! On a hot day take a dip at the Swimming Hole. The pool, though not huge, is perfect for cooling off and splashing around with the family. On a mid-Saturday afternoon it was certainly busy at the pool but on Tuesday at 1 pm we nearly had the pool to ourselves. For more swimming adventures head just a few minutes down the road to Lake Michigan.

Like every Jellystone, the scheduled activities and amenities for kids are always a star of the show. There is a nice sized arcade and game room within the activity center that are open for you to come and go all day long. Fun events like candy-bar bingo, HEY! Rides, tie-dye, character visits and movie nights are always a crowd pleaser. Did you ask for gem mining? Of course! It’s not camping unless you are going home with a bag of gems

When we asked our daughters, ages 3 and 5, what their favorite part of vacation was, they both yelled “the bike parade!” They both thought biking (and scooting) all the way around the campground with the activity director and big kids was out of this world. And we as parents will certainly never forget watching that joy!

If kicking back and relaxing is on your vacation agenda then Jellystone Park Petoskey is a great spot! Despite all of the fun activities the campground is overall very calm and peaceful. The nicely paved roads throughout the campground are great for walking the dog or a family bike ride. There is even a Little Free Library on-site that had a great selection of kids and adult books. The majority of the campground was well shaded which is perfect for an afternoon nap in your zero gravity chair.

Things to do near Jellystone PetoskeyEven though you could spend an entire vacation right at the campground, one of the biggest amenities of this Jellystone is the location! From the campground you are less than a 10 minute drive from Petoskey State Park – a lovely 1 mile stretch of beach on Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay. Also only a 10 minute drive from the campground you will find yourself wandering the streets of CHARMING downtown Petoskey. WIth tons of shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the lake you will find yourself scanning Zillow and looking at home prices in the area. Stop at Mudicks Fudge and Ice cream for the ultimate afternoon treat!

A few minutes walk from the shops and dining of Petoskey you will find Bayfront park. What an awesome place to spend the day. There is an excellent playground, a history museum, the Petoskey Breakwater and Lighthouse, and a very unique stone beach where you can hunt for the world famous Petoskey Stones. While these stones can be found along most of the western coast of Michigan, they are in large supply here. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, you can collect up to 25 lbs of stones from the shores of lake Michigan per year (unless you are within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore). I am quite sure our 3 year old collected about 15 lbs herself.

On an afternoon drive we stumbled upon Burnt Marshmallow Brewstillery and Rudbeckia Winery. Approximately 20 minutes from the campground this was a great find. The scenery was beautiful and there was a full menu of wine and craft beers in addition to lots of great snacks. This location also doubles as a Harvest Host Location and you can also book a site on campspot.

Looking for a day trip? We had the most amazing time taking a drive on Michigan’s route 119 (M-119) through the tunnel of trees along the northwestern coast. This 40-ish minute scenic drive will land you in Wilderness State Park. The state park offers 26 miles of shore line including a designated swimming and pet-friendly beach. For us, Wilderness state park holds the current title of most beautiful sunsets that we have ever seen.

If you are stargazers like we are you will want to visit Headlands International Dark Sky Park located only 9 miles from Wilderness State Park. What a wonder! 2 miles of undeveloped shoreline at the northwest point of Michigan lower peninsula. The skies here are undiluted by light pollution and the nighttime sky is breathtaking. We sat under the dark sky taking in the milky way and that is a memory we will hold forever. This area of Michigan is not unfamiliar to seeing the Northern Lights. While we were not lucky enough to see it here we hope you are!

Overall we had an unforgettable time at Jellystone Park Petoskey. If you are looking for a wonderful campground to serve as your basecamp for exploring the area of Northwestern Michigan-this is it! If you are looking for a campground to relax and unwind- this is it! What a sweet spot in the camping world.

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Looking for a taste of the relaxing, tropical lifestyle? Camp Margaritaville brings that vibe to its luxury RV resorts, with several locations across the southern US. This campground review of Camp Margaritaville Auburndale will tell you everything you need to know for a great stay at this resort, which lives up to its motto: “license to chill.”

We are excited to have our friend Bill Sferrazza from A Camper and a Camera back to share this review. He is a luxury resort aficionado and brilliant photographer. He has stayed in some amazing places, and Camp Margaritaville Auburndale quickly became a favorite, thanks to its over-the-top level of service and amenities. It even topped Camp Margaritaville Pigeon Forge, which we also loved (hear our review here)!

To hear Bill share his campground review of Camp Margaritaville Auburndale with Jeremy, click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas wherever you listen to podcasts.

Camp Margaritaville Auburndale LocationCamp Margaritaville Auburndale is located in Central Florida, around an hour southwest of Orlando and 40 minutes northeast of Tampa. You can combine your stay with a visit to Walt Disney World, since you can be on the park property in less than 40 minutes.

While the immediate area doesn’t offer as much to do due to its rural location, you have easy access to many day-trip options, whether you want to the theme parks, beaches, or great towns like Orlando or Tampa. Or, thanks to the resort-level service at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, you may opt to just hang out and enjoy the park amenities and atmosphere.

Campground AtmosphereDriving into the resort at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, you can expect to immediately be wowed. It truly feels like an oasis. The tropical vibe really comes through, straight down to the tiki huts. While shade not abundant, the resort has planted many large palm trees across the campground, which truly give the tropical touch.

The campground has over 300 campsites, all of which are full hookup. You’ll find a mix of back-in and pull-thru, as well as some motorhome-specific pull-in sites. You’ll find a variety of upgrade options, including sites with tiki huts, outdoor kitchens, prime locations, hammocks, and so much more. It’s definitely worth exploring the full suite of options before you book.

In addition to the RV sites, you can also book a cabana cabin. Bill actually stayed in a cabin on his trip, and he was very impressed.

Other Park DetailsLet’s get an overview of the pricing and booking details at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale. Expect to pay around $95 to $175 per night, depending on whether you go for a more basic or a premium-level site. Although that sounds high for a campground, this is reasonable for a resort on the East Coast.

For comparison, Bill booked this park again for a stay next year, with some additional nights at Disney’s Fort Wilderness. The Fort Wilderness reservations started at $250 a night. So, you are paying a premium for both the location and the amenities. Just remember, these parks usually use dynamic pricing, so reservation costs vary by season, day, and availability.

Cabin prices are also fairly reasonable. They start run around $190 to $225 a night. You get a whole tiny home with a kitchen and more.

Campground Amenities at Camp Margaritaville AuburndaleWhile you might expect a Margaritaville to be more adult focused, the Camp Margaritaville Auburndale is also family friendly, with amenities for kids and adults of all ages. When you pull into the resort, you will see an event pavilion, camp store, pools, and a beautifully designed tiki hut area with a stage for live entertainment, including ticketed concerts.

The entertainment area is surrounded by food trucks and other eateries and a lovely spot to sit while you dine or hang out. You can find a great variety of food and drinks. You can have food delivered to the pool areas.

You’ll find many opportunities to cool off on a hot day, whether you’re taking your little ones to the splash pad, enjoying the waterslide with your tweens, or hanging out in the “Licensed to Chill” pool, which has a swim-up bar. There are two pool areas, and both are equally create.

On land, you’ll find mini golf, pickleball, cornhole, treasure mining, playgrounds, and more. Again, all of these are great for both kids and adults. Even the pets get an over-the-top experience at the Bark-aritaville Dog Park, which features a dog run and a spa.

As Bill points out, you can stay as busy or as relaxed as you wish! The park offers both vibes and has plenty of opportunities for both playing and relaxing.

To hear more details of this campground review of Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas wherever you listen to podcasts.

Things to Do Near Camp Margaritaville AuburndaleAs mentioned earlier, Camp Margaritaville Auburndale is somewhat near nothing and somewhat near everything. While the immediate area is sparse, you have the opportunity to easily venture out to find great things to do. Here are some great options:

• Disney World, Universal, SeaWorld, and other Orlando theme parks: You can easily spend a day or several days visiting the theme parks, which are 30-45 minutes away. Camp Margaritaville is a super relaxing place to stay, making it worth the drive.
• Tampa: Tampa is 45 minutes away and has tons of attractions
• Beaches: Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches are just over an hour’s drive to the west. Check out Clearwater Beach, St. Pete, and more.

Bill shares a ton of great Disney insider info on the podcast! Click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas podcast to hear his tips!

We really want to thank Bill for sharing this great campground review of Camp Margaritaville Auburndale—and all of his amazing photos!

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On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas we catch up on some questions from the RV Atlas group on facebook. We talk about past RV trips to Acadia, and past RV Trips to Cleveland–and we recommend great campgrounds for both trips. We also answer questions about when to replace smoke detectors and how to deal with mice invading your RV when it is in storage!

RV Trips to AcadiaWe have taken 5 or 6 RV trips to Acadia National Park and our campground of choice is always the Bar Harbor KOA. But while we love the waterfront sites at the campground–the campground itself is not in our top ten. Listen to the podcast to find out why.

RV Trips to ClevelandWe have visited the Cleveland area twice in our RV–and both times we stayed at the Cleveland/Streetsboro KOA–which we liked very much. During our first stay here we did not realize that Twins Days was happening nearby. We have a funny story to tell about how we found out about Twins Days at the end of this episode in a classic clip from almost ten years ago!

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Jellystone Park Binghamton in New York is truly a rising star campground that is very, very good now–and has the potential to be one of the best Jellystone Parks in the country in the near future. If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in New York, this campground delivers–with indoor, outdoor, and water activities for kids of all ages to explore. Bring your tent or RV–or stay in one of the glamping accommodations or cabins. All of the accommodations here are nice–and the spacious RV sites are among the best we have seen at any private campground across the country. Read on to find out more about this terrific campground and to hear all about our fun three day adventure there.

We recently were looking for a campground to enjoy with our youngest son, Wes. With his big brothers working for the summer, it was his time to shine. Bringing a friend along doubles the fun, so we planned a special boys’ trip for the kids and their dads. We picked the Binghamton Jellystone Park for its range of activities, with many centered around the lake. On a hot summer day, what could be more fun than spending a day rotating between a floating obstacle course and swimming beach or hitting the water in a kayak or canoe?

To hear Jeremy share his full campground review of the Jellystone Park Binghamton, click play on the media player above or search for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast player.

Activities at Jellystone Park Binghamton, NYThe Jellystone Park Binghamton is a rising star in the world of RV parks. It has tons of attractions you’ve come to expect from a Jellystone Park, like mini golf, an obstacle course, a jumping pillow, and much more–which is why you can enjoy a full vacation without leaving the campground.

What really sets Jellystone Park Binghamton apart is the water obstacle course on the lake. Kids love the large inflatables that float on the lake, and adults can do it too. It is a great workout! When you show up at this Jellystone Park make sure to check the time slots for the water obstacle course and sign up for a session at no additional cost. Once you have completed a session you can run back to the camp store and sign up for another one. We did one session per day while we were there and had one cancelled because of bad weather.

Another thing we appreciated was the free use of kayaks, canoes, and life jackets. Jellystone Park Binghamton leaves them by the water so guests can use them at almost anytime during daylight hours. There is no extra charge to use the boats. Not only does this setup make it easy to have flexibility in your day, we also appreciated that it (and many other activities) can be enjoyed without paying an additional fee. Kids can pick from the menu of amenities and play the day away without “nickle and diming” Mom and Dad.

If fun on land is more your thing, you can check out everything from candybar bingo to gaga ball, whichever suits your speed. Pickleball is also popular, and the campground provides paddles and balls right at the court at no additional fee. We love that this is a great sport for kids and adults to play together! We played about 40 games of pickleball while were there because the boys could not get enough.

Near the camp store is a ropes course. There is also a laser tag area indoors. Like many RV resorts, they have a gem mining station for the younger kids. Activities take place on weekdays and weekends, which is great for guests who visit Monday through Thursday to avoid the crowds. You will receive a schedule of activities upon arrival and we recommend that you take a look right away so that you can optimize your trip and make a loose schedule for your stay.

Accommodations at Binghamton Jellystone ParkJellystone Park in Binghamton has a lot of options for camping. Of course, you can stay in your tent or RV, but the campground also has yurts, conestoga wagons, glamping tents, and cabins. These accommodations are spread throughout the campground and mixed among the RV sites. So this would be a great place for vacationing with a family that does not have an RV. As far as we could tell–most of the accommodations do not have bathrooms–but there are ample bathhouses spread throughout the campground–and more being built.

The RV sites are some of the most spacious we have seen at any Jellystone Park. Many of these sites are shady and wooded like you might find in a state park, and some have direct access to the lake. Our favorite sites were on Bear Boulevard on the road up to the Conestoga Wagon area. There are sites that would be great for pop up campers and sites that can accommodate the big rigs. There is truly something for everyone at this Jellystone Park.

Beside the lake are four yurts with decks, air conditioning, sleeping for four, and a direct view of the water obstacle course. The Conestoga Wagons and cabins also have heat and air. If you don’t have an RV, there will certainly be a comfortable place to stay! The view of the lake from the yurts is wonderful and makes for a great place to kick back and relax or cook dinner for family and friends.

As you know, we love a good camp store, and Jellystone Park Binghamton did not disappoint. It has ice cream and souvenirs, and the staff is super friendly. The young staff that work here are well trained, professional, and polite. They also keep the campground clean and the landscaping nicely manicured. Every inch of the campground felt loved and well cared for–even the bathhouses.

Remember, you can hear Jeremy share his full campground review of the Jellystone Park Binghamton by clicking play on the media player above or search for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast player.

We had such a great stay from start to finish. If you are looking for a fun place to stay in New York State or want to visit a campground that is an attraction in its own right, Jellystone Park Binghamton provides an exciting family experience, with more activities than most people can do in one trip!

We are already planning on making a return trip and rumor has it that they are building a pool–which will take this campground from very, very good to completely epic!

The post Campground Review! Jellystone Park Binghamton, NY appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We are pleased to announce that Jeremy’s new camp cooking show Camp Griddemore recently made its debut on Blackstone Griddle’s YouTube channel. This show is all about easy, fast, and fun recipes that are perfect for the campground. If you want to step up your pancakes, hot dogs, smash burgers, and even your s’mores--then this brand new show is for you! There is a seat waiting for you around the campfire at Camp Griddlemore no matter where you are in your camp cooking journey. So we hope you stop by and leave Jeremy a like and a comment–and more importantly we hope that you find your next favorite recipe or a new idea for your camp cooking rotation.

New episodes drop every Wednesday night.

Here is a quick look at the first five episodes and a basic tip for each recipe.

So let’s get camping! And let’s get cooking!

Blueberry Butterscotch Pancakes at Camp GriddlemoreThe first episode of Camp Griddlemore is all about making delicious Blueberry Butterscotch Pancakes with the Kodiak Cakes Flapjack and Waffle Mix. The number one tip here is to give those pancakes a complete butter bath! Watch the complete episode right here.

Reuben Sandwiches–Camp Griddlemore Style!In the second episode of Camp Griddlemore we try to determine which is best–a corned beef reuben, or a pastrami reuben. Watch right here to find out which one Jeremy liked best! The pro tip here is to spread Duke’s Mayo on the outside of the deli rye bread and toast it up right on the griddle!

Make Better Campground Hot Dogs!Are you that boring guy or girl that only uses ketchup and mustard on your hot dogs? If so, its time to experiment with some different toppings that are easy to use and easy to find. The pro tip here is to let your imagination run wild and leave the ketchup and mustard at home on your next camping trip. Check out these three awesome hot dog “recipes” right here!

Elevate Your S’MORES at Camp GriddlemoreWe are huge fans of Dan Whalen’s book S’mores around here. So we decided to make three of his recipes on this super fun episode of Camp Griddlemore. Which one did we like the best? The Elvis, or the Strawberry Mint Balsamic Glazed, or the Peanut Butter Cup and Jelly S’more? Watch the episode here to find out! And grab a copy of Dan’s book for s’more inspiration. It is absolutely terrific.

Pork Roll, Egg & Cheese With a Sweet and Spicy TwistJeremy and Shawn the Camera Guy both grew up at the Jersey Shore where you can get an amazing pork roll, egg and cheese sandwich at any number of places. On this episode of Camp Griddlemore Jeremy cooks up a Pork Roll, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich with a sweet and spicy twist! The pro tip here is to add your favorite hot sauce to the ketchup and use pepper jack cheese instead of white America! Check out this super fun and super easy recipe right here!

The post Camp Griddlemore Debut (+Tips for Better Pancakes, Hot Dogs, S’mores, Walking Tacos+More) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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The Pacific Northwest is certainly one of the best places for camping in America–and many of the Campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest are quite simply amazing. On today’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast and here on the blog–we are excited to welcome Brooks Smothers from RV Out West. Brooks is an expert on camping in the PNW and he is going to share three of his favorite campgrounds from his beloved home region.

from the RV Out West website…

“Brooks Smothers grew up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. He has camped in the American West, from backpacking, to car camping, to van life in a ‘78 VW Camper, to a tent trailer with a young family and now to a travel trailer — he has experienced it all. RV Out West is a podcast all about RVing around the Pacific Northwest with some sprinkled in adventures that radiate out from there. On his show Brooks discusses sweet Northwest camping spots, gear and equipment, and tips & tricks — all to make your camping experiences as enjoyable as possible.”

To listen to Jeremy interview Brooks about these three amazing campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Or simply read on right here to learn more!

Thank you to Brooks for providing the pictures for this post–and for coming on our show!

Deception Pass State Park (WA)Deception Pass State Park (Oak Harbor, Washington) RV and Tent Sites

https://parks.wa.gov

Deception State Park is located on Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands about 80 miles north of Seattle. Its proximity to that great city helps make it Washington’s most visited state park–and so do its cliffs, beaches, tide pools and sunsets. This park, which recently turned 100 years old, is packed with coastal hiking trails and there are numerous places to launch a boat or kayak along its shores. There are three camping locations within Deception Pass. Cherry Lake is the largest and most popular. There are about 230 sites there and about one third of them have hookups. Quarry Pond is a medium sized campground and Bowman Bay is very small and intimate. There are some really awesome concessions here that are worth checking out. Blue Otter Kayaks is located at Cranberry Lake and does a nice job with a variety of rentals and Campstuff Coffee operates out of a vintage camp trailer right by the camp loop entrance to Cranberry Lake. Fidalgo and Whidbey Island islands are connected by the iconic and immensely photographable Deception Pass bridge–so bring your camera when you go. When it comes to campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest this is one of the absolute best.

from Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping

Cape Disappointment State Park (WA)Cape Disappointment State Park (IIwaco, Washington) RV and Tent Sites, Cabins, Yurts, Vacation Houses

https://parks.wa.gov

For another epic coastal camping option look no further than Cape Disappointment State Park on the Long Beach Peninsula. Here you will find secluded sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs near the edge of the sea, and lighthouses that are as pretty as a picture. Bring your hiking boots and a rain jacket because there are many trails to explore that wander through old growth forest or lead to views of the park’s lighthouses. There are over 200 sites here and fifty of them have full hook-ups. The best sites here are closest to the windswept beach. These sites do have some shade and protection from the rugged stretch of sand and sea just beyond the trees–but plan on windy conditions and don’t leave the RV awning out when unattended. You may want to leave your tent or RV at home anyway and rent one of Cape Dissapointment’s 14 family-friendly yurts. They are cozy, comfortable, and heated–and just steps away from the beach. When it comes to campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest this one will definitely not disappoint!

from Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping

Newhalem Bay State Park (OR)Newhalem Bay State Park (Newhalem, Oregon) RV and Tent Sites, Yurts

https://parks.wa.gov

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the bay, this stunning state park is located on a sand spit. The campground itself is filled with fragrant shore pines and the ocean is located just a few steps away right over the sand dune. There is great biking here and the park offers plenty of oppurtunities for wildlife viewing and strolling along the sand. This is a large campground with 265 sites with electric and water and it can be challenging to book during summer weekends. Reservations are accepted up to 6 months in advance so make sure to book early! When it comes to campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest this one should definitely be on your bucket list.

adapted from show notes by Brooks Smothers

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Whether you’re a new or experienced RVer, adding a solar power system to your RV can seriously expand your camping options. When you first begin researching, it seems like there’s a lot to learn. However, we’re going to explore some RV solar power options from Go Power! to make it easier to find a setup that fits your needs.

Jake Erwin, a sales representative for the RV team at Go Power! is going to explain eight RV solar power system options appropriate for a variety of RVs and use cases. Finding your perfect system involves considering your power needs, your rig, your camping style, and of course–your budget.

Go Power! is just one of many RV solar system provides, but Go Power! is more than just a product. The support is second to none, with a small team of dedicated professionals operating behind the scenes. When you get a system from Go Power!, you’re getting real-live support from real-live humans!

Our family has had solar systems on and off through the years. We currently don’t, and we miss the convenience, especially when we consider those amazing boondocking, Harvest Hosts, and state park sites without electric hookups. So, as we talk about these great solar power systems, we are also considering what would best fit our own needs.

The Benefits of Adding or Upgrading a RV Solar Power SystemAccording to Jake, there are several benefits to adding or upgrading a solar power system:

1. Savings: Despite the upfront cost, in the long run, a solar power system can save you money. One way it does this is by expanding the life span of your batteries. Another plus is that you may not even need to hook up to shore power when your RV is parked at home, as your solar system can keep your batteries charged.
2. Opportunities for Camping: You’ll have more camping options–and less expensive ones. You can go off the grid, find free camping sites, utilize services like Harvest Hosts, and camp at national and state parks.
3. Peace and Quiet: If you’ve been using a generator for off-grid power, you’ll really appreciate how quiet solar power is.

RV Solar Power Systems: Battery OptionsFirst, let’s talk batteries. Whether you use solar or electric to generate power, the battery is where the power is ultimately stored. When shopping for a mobile power solution, it’s good to decide which type of battery you prefer first. There are a lot of pros and cons to each type to consider:

• Traditional Flooded-Acid Batteries: These are low cost, predictable, and found pretty much everywhere. They have been the traditional choice for so long. On the downside, they have a short life. If you aren’t taking proper care of them, they may only last a couple of years. Also, they vent a toxic gas, so you can’t store them inside. Next, they are susceptible to freezing, which kills their life span. Finally, they are heavy.
• AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Batteries: These are a newer option. They uses the same basic setup at the flooded-acid batteries, but since they are properly sealed, they can be stored inside, which frees up storage space on your tongue and allows you to build a bigger system. Sealed systems require less maintenance and do not freeze. Finally, they are less experience than the lithium options. However, they are quite heavy, like traditional batteries.
• Lithium-ion Batteries: These are the newest battery option. A major benefit is their weight. They may weight half as much as their AGM comparisons. They also offer double the useable power capacity since you can run them down to 0% charge remaining without worrying about damaging the battery. If you have a 100-amp hour battery of each type, the lithium will run twice as long since you need to charge the AGM once it hits around 50%. Plus, they last longer. Finally, they are safer thanks to their stability and their built-in safety systems. They do have two drawbacks. One is the lack of performance in cold temperatures–they shut down below freezing. However, advanced lithium batteries come with a built-in heating systems to help offset this problem. The other drawback to lithium batteries is the cost. They are more expensive.

To hear Jake and Jeremy explain more about each battery option, make sure to check out the full audio podcast by clicking play on the media player above or by searching for The RV Atlas wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

Now, let’s take a look at eight solar power kit options from Go Power! To fully explore the specs on each and to learn more about the pricing and battery options, make sure to head to the Go Power! website and to listen to the podcast episode paired with this post.

OPTION 1: Duralite Portable Solar Kit

The Duralite Portable Solar Kit is a super lightweight, portable option, weighing in at approximately 10 pounds. Despite its light weight, it packs a powerful punch, offering 100 watts. You can add expansion panels, as well. This is a great entry point, and it’s perfect for overlanders, tent campers, and van life folks. Pricing comes in under $600.

OPTION 2: Overlander Solar Charging KitAccording to Go Power!, the Overlander Solar Charging Kit is the “largest single 12-volt solar charging kit on the market, with 200 watts and 9.6 amps of power charging capability.” This has been a long-selling classic kit that’s been updated over the years. It’s one of the most popular options! The 200-watt panel is rugged and durable and holds up well on the road. It produces 10 amps of charge per hour per panel and can be upgraded if your needs expand. Expect to pay around $650 for this kit minus the batteries.

OPTION 3: Weekender ISW Solar Charging Kit

While the other options we’ve looked at so far focused on providing the solar panel and basic accessories, the Weekender ISW Solar Charging Kit is more of a full power system, meaning it comes with a 1500-watt inverter and a transfer switch. The inverter pulls 12-volt power from the batteries and converts it to standard 110-volt power that’s used to run your various appliances. As its name implies, this kit can take you off the grid for the weekend and should tackle most, if not all, of your needs! You’re looking at a $2000 price tag plus your batteries.

OPTION 4: Solar Elite Charging KitWhat if you want to camp for more days or have higher power needs? The Solar Elite Charging Kit is the next step up from the Weekender. According to Go Power!, this system includes a “2000 watt Inverter Charger, a supreme all-in-one unit that combines 2000 watts of pure sine wave AC power with a built-in battery charger and transfer switch.” It can run pretty much everything in your rig. To get this level of power, expect to pay around $3000 plus the battery costs.

OPTION 5: Solar Extreme Charging KitAs its name implies, the Solar Extreme Charging Kit is made for someone with extreme power needs (including AC, if you have a proper battery setup). To compare this to a car engine, this would be your V8. This system can run 3000 watts of electricity, while also charging your batteries. Expect to pay upwards of $4000.

OPTIONS 6,7,8: PowerTrak SolarGo Power! is continually researching and developing new options. Currently, the cutting-edge technology is found in the Go Power! PowerTrak solar systems. These are designed to be complete RV power packages, including powerful panels, a 3000-watt inverter, and upgraded solar controllers. Go Power! has 3 of these all-new options:

• PowerTrak 400-watt
• PowerTrak 800-watt
• PowerTrak 1200-watt

These systems feature the latest and greatest options for operating your system, including a smart touch-screen display that integrates with all of the parts, making it easy to monitor and control everything. Plus, they offer a major boost in capabilities. Expect to pay $4000-$6000 plus.

How to Find Out More about RV Solar PowerTo hear Jake and Jeremy explain more about each of these RV solar system options, make sure to check out the full audio podcast by clicking play on the media player above or by searching for The RV Atlas wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

We hope this helps you begin to understand the world of RV solar power! We know it’s complicated, but these kits from Go Power! are designed to make it easier. Go Power! partners with websites, dealers, and manufacturers across the nation, making it easy to find their products and to learn more about them.

Finally, make sure to check out the resources page on the Go Power! website and YouTube channel. You may also look for Jake and the Go Power! crew at upcoming RV and overlanding shows across the U.S. Bring your questions! Check out the demo displays!

All images are from the Go Power! website.

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In our latest book, Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping we make the case that a Harvest Hosts membership is one of the great values in American camping right now. And the more we use our membership–the more we believe this to be true. An official Harvest Hosts stay is limited to one night–so many RV owners that we know use them as stops on their way to and from destinations. Staying at a Harvest Hosts location is a great way to rest up after a long drive, or to extend a great vacation just a little bit longer. Why spend the night in the parking lot of a big box store when you can spend the night at a winery, a brewery, or a farm? Harvest Hosts locations are also spread out across the entire country and there are over 5,000 of them. So it would be quite hard to visit all of them in a single lifetime.

The thing that we may love the most about our Harvest Hosts membership is that, while they may be known for wineries and farms, there are dozens (if not hundreds) of other types of hosts in their extensive network. How does a comfortable overnight at a minor league baseball stadium, a space museum, or a 1950’s diner sound? There are so many cool locations for nostalgic Harvest Hosts stays–and many of them are also perfect for summer.

To listen to Jeremy interview Harvest Hosts CEO Joel Holland about “12 Nostalgic Harvest Hosts Locations that are Perfect for Summer” please click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

To get your own annual Harvest Hosts membership make sure to use promo code ECLIPSE24 to save 20 percent.

Without further ado, here is a sneak peek at Joel’s terrific list of nostalgic Harvest Hosts locations. To find out more about each one make sure to listen to our interview with Joel on the RV Atlas podcast.

1. The Gateway Grizzlies (Minor League Baseball Stadium)How cool would it be to catch a minor league game and enjoy a cold beer and then be able to walk right back to your RV for a safe and comfortable overnight stay in the stadium’s parking lot? At the Gateway Grizzlies Stadium in Sauget, Illinois you can do just that. Singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh inning stretch takes on a whole new meaning when your RV is waiting for you out in the parking lot. When it comes to nostalgic Harvest Hosts locations that are perfect for summer this one is certainly top notch and fun for the entire family.

2. Peggy Sue’s 50’s DinerIs there anything more nostalgic than an authentic 1950’s American Diner? Imagine pulling into Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner in Yermo, California after a long day of driving and parking your rig and heading inside to the counter to order a burger and fries. Or imagine waking up with the Calico Mountains as your backdrop and heading into Peggy Sue’s for coffee and breakfast before hitting the road. Either scenario sounds terrific to us. Just make sure you say hello to Betty Boop before you go!

3. Galaxy Drive-In Movie TheaterParking your rig for the night at a drive-in movie theater like the Galaxy Drive-In in Ennis, Texas and catching a summer movie sounds like a dream to us. And this isn’t the only Drive-in movie theater in the Harvest Hosts system–there are a whole bunch of them. What an amazing slice of Americana and how convenient if you are traveling near one of these locations! Sign us up for an epic night in front of the silver screen in the great outdoors!

4. Roy’s Motel & Cafe (and Old Gas Station)If Roy’s Motel & Cafe in Amboy, California seems like something out of an old movie–that’s because it is. This location was often used by film and music video directors because of its stunning desert sunsets and nighttime skies filled with stars. Make sure you grab one of the over four dozen craft sodas while you are here. They make for a perfect summer treat after a long, hot day of driving.

5. Tallahassee Automobile & Collectibles MuseumThere seems to be a strong correlation between people that love RV’s and people that love classic automobiles. If that sounds like you then make sure you put a stop at the Tallahassee Automobile & Collectibles Museum in Tallahassee, Florida on your personal Harvest Hosts bucket list. This museum earns raves reviews from guests and may be one of the most popular Harvest Hosts locations in the country.

6. Stafford Air and Space MuseumThe Stafford Air & Space Museum in Weatherford, Oklahoma has an excellent permanent collection of aerospace artifacts and interactive exhibits that is appealing to anyone who is interested in the history of flight and space exploration–and who isn’t interested in the history of flight and space? We certainly are. There are four parking lots here for self-contained RVs, and they are level and easy to navigate. The staff here is also very helpful, and they respond quickly to requests for reservations.

7. Mike’s Route 66 Outpost & SaloonMike’s Route 66 Outpost & Saloon has “a beer and wine bar that boasts a trove of local brews and fine wines. And a “full menu [that] caters to both the ravenous explorer and the culinary connoisseur.” And it is located in Kingman, Arizona on historic Route 66. This Harvest Hosts location has nostalgic summer vibes that will appeal to the. most road-hardened and wanderlust-filled travelers. So if you ever feel like heading west–head to Mike’s Route 66 Outpost and pull up a chair at the bar. They are waiting for you with a frosty mug and a surprisingly adventurous menu.

8. Train Mountain Railroad (Railroad Museum)The RV parking sites at Train Mountain Railroad in Chiloquin, Oregon are lovely and shaded and adventure awaits just around the corner. This Harvest Hosts location boasts “over 36 miles of 7.5 gauge track, creating a network of miniature railroads that span an impressive area 2 miles by 4 miles” that “awes its visitors.” The woods here are lovely and your entire family will love exploring them on these charming miniature railroads.

9. Mom’s Memories Antiques & Mary’s Book Shop (Antique Shop)Whether you are looking for a cute trinket to decorate your next campsite or your next great read, make sure to stop at Mom’s Memories Antiques & Mary’s Book Shop in West Plains, Missouri. Whether you are a full on junker or just a casual reader–you will find a treasure or two to bring home on your next great road trip. The RV parking is also shady and spacious.

10. The Battlefield Country StoreIt’s hard to beat a good country store for sweets and treats and specialty items that are perfect for stocking up an RV on a roadtrip. At The Battlefield Country Store you can “wake up with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee tantalizing your senses” or “treat your taste buds to a kaleidoscope of ice cream flavors that promise to be as unique as your journeys.” Fredericksburg, Virginia is also an incredible part of the country for history buffs that love a good road trip. Put this delightfully sweet Harvest Hosts location somewhere near the top of your summer road trip bucket list.

11. The Birthplace of Country Music MuseumIf you are a country music fan then a stop at The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol, Virginia is an absolute must! This Harvest Hosts location is “an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution” and an “award-winning museum that invites you to delve into the pivotal 1927 Bristol Sessions” which is “an event that music historians fondly dub as the “big bang” of country music.” This location straddles the Tennessee/Virginia border and will please casual fans of country music and its most loyal diehards.

12. Mrs. Littles Tea and Toys (Tea House)This quirky and unique Harvest Hosts location in Hamilton, Missouri “invites road-weary travelers to park their home on wheels and explore an enchanting blend of delectable lunches and the simple joys of handcrafted toys.” Mrs. Littles Teas and Toys allows its guests to take a step back in time to an America where life was lived at a slower and more relaxed pace–and enjoy a tasty lunch while they do. It sounds perfectly inviting and perfectly charming to us!

So do the rest of these nostalgic Harvest Hosts locations. All of them pass the summer road trip travel vibe test with flying colors!

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Utah is certainly one of the greatest states in the country for RV travel. It is beautiful from top to bottom and its “Mighty Five” collection of National Parks is on just about everybody’s bucket list. Zion National Park is the most visited of the so-called “Mighty Five” and it is truly one of the most famous and magnificent national parks in the entire world. Jellystone Park Zion (which is located in Hurricane, Utah less than 30 miles away) recently opened its doors to guests and it is already earning rave reviews for its attractions, amenities, spacious RV sites, and modern cabin options.

If you are looking for a place to park your rig or cabin camp on that epic trip to Zion National Park that you have been dreaming about–then you definitely want to give Jellystone Park Zion a very good look. Particularly if you are traveling with kids of any age that love to cool off and get wet after a morning of exploration and adventure in the great outdoors.

This park has an almost endless list of attractions and amenities–but here are the three most compelling reasons why we think you should consider booking with them if you are heading to Zion at any point in the near future.

1. The water attractions are magnificent and appealing for little kids and for teenagers and adults. Everyone in the family will have fun here. Whether you have kids that are thrill seekers, or little ones that are looking for little slides–Jellystone Park Zion has got you covered.
2. The proximity to Zion National Park and Sand Hollow State Park make both terrific options for day trips. Exploring the best that southern Utah has to offer and then coming back to the water attractions at this Jellystone sounds like a complete dream to us.
3. We find the prices here for RV sites and for cabin rentals to be very reasonable considering what the park offers to its guests at no additional cost. We stayed right outside of Zion in the summer of 2023 and lodging (like cabins and full-hook up RV sites) is not cheap in the general area. If you do a cost/amenities comparison between this campground and other private campgrounds in the region we think you will be pleasantly surprised.

To listen to Jeremy interview Scott Nielson, the owner of Jellystone Park Zion, and to find out so much more about this brand new Jellystone Park, click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

Let’s take a closer look at the park’s astonishing “4-acre multi-level water zone” which includes multiple water slides, a lazy river, a floating obstacle course, multiple pools, a hot tub, and so much more.

Water Attractions at Jellystone Park ZionIf these pictures don’t make you want to drop everything and book a trip to Jellystone Park Zion then we don’t know what will. The water attractions at this park have to be among the best in the country. During our interview with Scott Nielson he also mentioned that they plan on heating the pools into the fall so you can go swimming–even on Halloween weekends–which sounds like a terrific option after the kids go trick or treating.

While the water attractions (and the location) may be the biggest draw at Jellystone Park Zion—they still have a heck of a lot more to offer. There are playgrounds, pickleball courts, basketball courts, two dog parks with obstacle courses, a jumping pad, and seriously–so much more! Let’s let the pictures do the talking and take a look at some of these other amenities…

Other Attractions and Amenities at Jellystone Park ZionWhether you have littles that want to play at the playground or jump on the jumping pad, or teens and tweens that want to play basketball, Jellystone Park Zion has got you covered with great options. We particularly love seeing those sports courts for the older kids and for mom and dad! Our whole family loves to play pickleball together and I think you would definitely find us there every evening when we visit this park.

Themed Weekends and Activities at Jellystone Park ZionJellystone Park Zion also has tons of planned activities and themed weekends–so the kids will be busy all day long–and sleep plenty good at night. Some examples of the themed weekends are Hawaiian Luau Weekend, Western Wet and Wild Weekend, Fireworks and Fun Weekend and tons more–you can find a complete list of themed weekends for 2024 right here.

RV Sites and Cabins at Jellystone Park ZionThe owner of Jellystone Park Zion was an RV dealer for many years and he knows that RV owners really love to have spacious sites that are easy to navigate. The RV sites at Jellystone Park Zion are truly spacious by private RV resort standards. Click here for more details on the different site categories, prices and sizes.

The cabins are also spacious and light, bright and airy with modern decor and lots of sleeping options for larger families and groups. To find our more about the Yogi Bear and Boo Boo cabins please click here.

Camp Store, Add Ons, Adventure Rentals and MoreJellystone Park Zion also has a well-stocked camp store with plenty of merch for the kids and plenty of add-on options to make your vacation even more special. The private poolside cabana rentals look like a great option on a hot summer day. They also offer a variety of onsite dining options including some awesome food trucks from local vendors.

Their location near Sand Hollow State Park also creates plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. You can choose from power sport rentals like UTVs, watercraft, Jeeps, dirt bike rentals and more. For complete details about adding these rentals on to your existing reservation please click here.

Returning to Utah is definitely on our bucket list. Returning to Zion National Park is also on our bucket list. And now we know where we will be camping when we return to this great state.

This is just a little sneak peak of what Jellystone Park Zion has to offer. To find out more check out our podcast interview with Scott Nielson or click here and let your next great adventure begin.

And please–keep your eyes on those pic-a-nic baskets while you are camping at Jellystone Park Zion. Yogi is much quicker than he looks.

And he is always hungry.

Always.

The post Campground Debut! Jellystone Park Zion Makes a Splash in Utah appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks is a terrific basecamp for exploring New York State’s magnificent Adirondack Park. After venturing out into the rugged landscapes, you’ll appreciate returning each night to this family-friendly campground and it’s two pools and other fun amenities.

First, you need to understand the Adirondacks. The Adirondack Park encompasses one third of the land in New York, giving you a huge area to explore. In it, there are truly classic larger resort towns like Lake George and Lake Placid, which we love visiting. We’ve reviewed some great campgrounds near these bustling resort towns before, like Moose Hillock Campground. But outside of the resort towns, this region can be rugged and expansive–and filled with opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Location: Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks is roughly in the middle of Lake George and Lake Placid, making each an easy day trip. Lake George is around 40 minutes south of the campground, and Lake Placid is around 50 minutes northwest of it. This puts both of these awesome towns within easy striking distance for a day trip from Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks.

Aside from visiting the resort towns, Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers easy access to some of the smaller, quaint villages that dot the Adirondacks. Schroon Lake is easily accessible and adorable (just 10 minutes away), and it has all of the supplies, restaurants, and shopping that you will need. More on some of our favorites below.

Campground Details: Spacious Skies Adirondack PeaksSpacious Skies Adirondack Peaks is what we would call a medium-sized park. It has a small cozy vibe but really has a wide variety of sites and accommodations. The campground offers over 150 RV sites, plus tent sites, cabins, and yurts. It some ways it reminded us of the old Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA, which was always one of our go-to places for the Adirondacks. Unfortunately, the campground is closed and some reports suggest that KOA is trying to turn it into a glamping resort. If you were a fan of the old Lake Placid KOA you definitely might want to give Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks a try.

Our favorite sites were #1-11, which are located on a cool loop with easy access to the river and some great views. In fact, there’s a whole row of sites along the river. There is a road across the street from the river. You might get some road noise that’s noticeable if you’re sensitive to that sort of thing. However, our friends camped in these sites in a pop-up and in an Airstream and were not bothered by the road at all.

For a quieter experience, look at some of the interior sites. We stayed in a cabin near the back of the park, and it was very peaceful.

The park offers a ton of site options, with pull-thrus and back-ins. Some have full hookups, while others are water/electric only. Check out the Campground Map page for an overview plus a virtual street-view tour of the park.

What About the Pricing?Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks uses dynamic pricing. To get a firm sense of pricing, you’ll need to input your actual dates on the website. That being said, we were pleasantly surprised by the pricing. For the summer dates in 2024 that we checked (and for the nights we were there), RV sites can be found for around $50-60 a night. The cabins are around $100-140 a night.

Considering the amenities and activities that are offered on site, these prices are a very good value. We know many campers are looking for budget camping options, and we think this park really hits the mark! Just remember, the prices are subject to change and vary by date and season.

Campground Amenities: Spacious Skies Adirondack PeaksThis campground hits the sweet spot for family camping! For us, it’s those classic amenities that we really appreciated when our boys were young. It doesn’t have to be the polished over-the-top resort-styled stuff that even drives the prices up sky high. Things like a cool camp store and the ability for kids to bike around the park make for a relaxed family vacation.

Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks offers all of these things and more. The park has two pools, including one with a waterslide, as well as a new playground. Additionally, the camp store provides an awesome selection of local ice cream (the most important supply), along with their own special Spacious Skies Sundae!

A large recreation hall has ping-pong tables and offers crafts and movies, as well as other activities for themed weekends. The reading corner is especially charming, with a variety of books for kids of all ages. Also, the kids can also burn some energy on the jumping pillow and with the pedal bike rentals. Finally, for dogs, check out the Cosmic Canine Dog Park–which is located in a shady spot in the back of the park.

This only covers some of the park’s amenities. Check out more on the campground website. Most importantly, Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks has great customer service with a friendly welcome. The campground manager and staff greeted every single camper that entered the camp store with a huge hello and asked them what they were up to that day and if they needed any help or recommendations for things to do in the area. Their friendliness and knowledge of the area really helped give this campground a homey and charming vibe.

Places to Go Near Spacious Skies Adirondack PeaksAs mentioned earlier, Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks is located in an area near some charming restaurants and shops. Here are a few places we enjoyed in/near the campground and in Schroon Lake:

• Paradox Brewery: This is within walking distance and is known for great brews and food! They also have tasty smash burgers.
• Frontier Town Gateway: Located across from the campground, this diner has a solid mix of options and is super convenient. They also have camp supplies.
• Spacious Skies Camp Store & Snack Bar: You can find cute souvenirs, camp supplies, and some food right onsite!

• Schroon Lake Department Store: The old-town vibe and quirky selection of goods makes this a fun stop in the village of Schroon Lake.

• Pine Cone Mercantile & North Woods Bread Co: A charming gift shop with great bread–what more could you need? It has tons of books and a good selection of camping gifts. It’s a must stop!

• Stewart’s Shops: Great stop for gas, ice cream, and supplies.
• 9 Mile Coffee Co: Of course, you’ll need a great place to get your coffee fix, and this is it. It’s also a charming spot to sit and relax or get some work done.

Finally, for outdoor recreation, make sure to head over to Schroon Lake. It’s a great spot for paddling. You might also want to check out Split Falls, a waterfall with a cool place to hang out. Then, as mentioned earlier, you can easily day trip into Lake George and Lake Placid.

Final Thoughts on this ParkReally, with all of the amenities in the campground and all of the things to do nearby, as well as the major day trip options, you could easily spend a whole week at Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks. You’ll have the perfect mix of campground relaxation and things to see and do in the wild and wonderful Adirondack Park.

The post Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks: Budget-Friendly Camping in the ADK appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Our trip to Iceland was like a dream from beginning to end. But our journey along Iceland’s South Coast was our absolute favorite part of the trip. This section of our road trip was filled with astonishing waterfalls, quiet hikes, delicious food, great campsites, and so much more. Read on just below to learn more about this epic stretch of our trip.

To read about the first leg of our trip in Reykavik and along the Golden Circle–please click here.

To find out about 53 things you need to know before you go to Iceland–please click here.

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss the second part of their Iceland Road Trip–please click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows!

Use code rvatlas10 for 10 percent off a motorhome rental with Rent Easy Iceland AND free pickup and drop off from and to the KEF airport. Do not book the transportation as part of your reservation or you will be charged for it. Send an email or direct message on social media with arrival and departure dates and your pickup and delivery will be arranged from there. Our code CAN be combined with any other discounts available on their website. This is not an affiliate code and we do not earn a percentage from your reservation. We truly hope to inspire you to go to Iceland and we loved our experience with Rent Easy Iceland.

Two Amazing Waterfalls On the Road to VikSeljalandsfoss WaterfallSeljalandsfoss Waterfall is located just off of the Ring Road on the way to Vik and is about an hour and forty-five minutes away from Reykavik. This stunning 200 foot waterfall is an absolute must stop on your way to Vik–or on your way back–depending on your timing and travel plans. In the weeks before our trip (when we were in researching mode) this waterfall seemed to appear in photos and videos more than any other in Iceland This is no surprise considering how easy it is to visit–and considering the fact that you can walk all the way behind it. Make sure you wear a rain coat when you go. You won’t get soaked–but you will get wet!

Skogafoss WaterfallSkogafass was our favorite waterfall out of the five that we visited. It felt wild and untamed and you could get right up close to the edge of it without guardrails of any kind in your way impeding you view. Like Seljalandsfoss this majestic waterfall is located right off of the ring road about two and a half hours away from Reykavik and less than 30 minutes from Vik. Plenty of parking is available and the waterfall is just steps away from the parking lot. There are other hikes with waterfalls located above and behind the main waterfall for those that want to beat the crowds and enjoy a longer ramble.

Vik Campsite and Skool Beans CoffeeWe loved Vik and the Vik Campsite so much that we stayed there on our way out to Skaftafell and Jokulsarlon and on the way back. We even changed our plans to do so. We initially planned on spending two nights at Skaftafell but we ditched our second night there to retain to Vik for good food and drink. The campsite was in a lovely spot just across the street from shopping, great restaurants, and the beach. With mountains on one side and the ocean on the other this location felt like a dream. Vik Campsite had a very friendly staff and all of the facilities were clean, comfortable and welcoming. The common area had a community kitchen and plenty of tables for enjoying a meal or hanging out–and the bathrooms and showers were plentiful and also immaculately clean. But at the end of the day it was all about the location. Being able to walk to breakfast or dinner (or for a drink at the local brewhouse) and walk back to the motorhome made this entire stop chill and relaxing. It didn’t hurt having Iceland’s most famous coffee house located right on the Vik Campsite’s property. Access to electricity is available and the overall price for this campsite for two of us was around $35 dollars US.

Skool Beans CoffeeSkool Beans Cafe is located just on the other side of the Vik Campsite’s common area and bathhouses and they serve up (arguably) the best cup of coffee in Iceland. Their shop is located in a school bus and it is warm, cozy, and inviting. We had the dark roast and the medium roast while we were there. The medium roast was very good. The dark roast was one of the best cups of coffee we have ever had–and all just steps away from our gorgeous campsite with mountain views.

The Village and ShopsThe village of Vik is charming and chillaxed in just about every way. There are restaurants, brewpubs, a grocery store, a gas station, some great shopping, and more. The Icewear and Vik Wool shop across the street from the campground was wonderful and packed with great clothing and gifts. We each bought our souvenirs for the trip here. This is the place to get a gorgeous wool sweater or hat–or even a book or a mug. they had just about everything. There are also plenty of clean public restrooms here.

Vik is a lovely town for strolling and the black sand beach is just steps past the shops. The famous Black Beach (Reynisfjara) is not right in front of Vik–you have to back track towards Reykavik about ten minutes. It is right on the other side of the Peninsula that can be viewed to the west of downtown Vik. You must still take caution on the beaches directly in front of Vik–but the infamously dangerous beach where numerous tourists have died is on the other side.

Black Beach (Reynisfjara)We lost track of the number of times an Icelander told us to be careful when walking on the infamous Black Beach just west of Vik. A handful of tourists have died on this beach in the last 5-6 years so we did take those warnings seriously and you should too. Rogue or “sneaker waves” can materialize out of seemingly nowhere and surge onto the beach and knock a person down and then sweep them out to sea. So don’t walk too close to the water when you visit and don’t turn your back to the waves–ever. Besides the possibility of danger this is a lovely beach for a stroll and we saw puffins while we were there. They were hanging out on the rock outcroppings and swooping out over the waves.

This is a must stop during your stay in Vik.

Food and Drink in VikBlack Crust PizzaBlack Crust Pizza is another must stop when you are camping or passing through the village of Vik. Listed below are the three pizzas we tried (and appetizer)–and they were all delicious. They are famous for the charcoal crusted black pizza dough–but we loved the sourdough crust just as much.

1. Pepperoni/Mushroom/Pepper Cheese/ Olives/ Sourdough Pizza
2. Cherry Tomato/ Mozzarella/ Fresh Basil/ Sourdough Pizza
3. Black Crust/ Pizza/ Icelandic Cheeses/ Red Current Jelly/ Rose/ Pepper Parmesan
4. Black Crust Garlic Bread and Cheese

The vibe here was relaxed and chill and the selection of beer was excellent. We actually ended up eating here twice. Once on our first night in Vik and once on our second night in Vik after visiting the Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach in Jokulsarlon .

Strondin PubThe Strondin Pub also had excellent food and drink and a nice, relaxed atmosphere close to the beach. The fish and chips was excellent and so was the Traditional Icelandic Fish Stew. Ask for some stickers before you leave–they have them behind the counter and they are free.

Smidjan BrewhouseThis wonderful brew house is located in the old section of town–which is still just a short walk away from the Vik Campsite. The staff was friendly and the selection of craft beers was excellent. If you are a beer lover then this is the stop for you in Vik. The food here is also very tasty–we had an order of chicken wings and a brownie dessert to go along with our craft beers.

Skaftafell (Vatnajökull National Park)Skaftafell

Skaftafell was an independent national park until 2008. But now it is part of the much larger Vatnajokull National Park whose dominant feature is the Vatnajokull Glacier. Skaftafell is often still referred to as Skaftafell National Park–so don’t get confused when it is. After one night in Vik it was our plan to spend two nights at Skaftafell Campsite (which costs about 40 bucks per night for two people and electric) but we ended up spending one night and then hightailing it to Vik for another night of great food and drink. This is no knock on Skaftafell–which was absolutely one of the most beautiful spots on Iceland’s South Coast. We just felt like we saw what we wanted to see in one afternoon and one morning and we felt like having another great meal in Vik.

Skaftafell CampsiteThe campsite at Skaftafell (which does not take reservations) was truly beautiful–and peaceful and relaxing. There are 8 pitches (aka loops) here and about half of them are for tent campers and half for vans, caravans, and motorhomes that need electric. The campsites are at the base of the hiking trail to Svartifoss and the exceptionally lovely visitor center is just a short walk away. We loved the views of the snowcapped mountains from our campsite and we also really appreciated the clean bathrooms and the free, hot showers. Everything at Skaftafell was delightful and remarkably uncrowded while we were there in May.

Skaftafell Hiking (Svartifoss and Vatnajokull Glacier)The most popular day hike at Skaftafell is clearly the hike to the Svartifoss waterfall. This moderate hike was 2 miles out and back with some slight elevation gain–especially at the beginning. This hike was not crowded while we were there–but there were certainly other people on the trial with us. This was an awesome hike made particularly enjoyable by the fact that the trailhead began just steps away from our campsite.

The first hike we did in Skaftafell (soon after picking our site and parking our motorhome) was the short ramble to the edge of the glacier–which begins just past the visitor center. This is a super easy hike (less than two miles round trip) with little to no elevation gain–and we were practically alone on the trail. We saw one couple on the way out who stopped to tell us that they saw a fox. But we were completely alone by the glacier. We were also almost able to walk right up to the edge of the glacier—but a few streams and deep pools were in our way.

Jokulsarlon (Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach)After we completed the hike to Svartifoss we headed further south to Jokulsarlon which was our furthest point away from Rekavik on the south coast. Jokulsarlon is a terrific end point for a south coast adventure and for those that are not proceeding further east to complete the entire ring road tour. The Glacial Lagoon at Jokulsarlon is clearly one of the most photographed spots in the country. After all, you can park your van or motorhome with a direct view of giant, electric blue icebergs floating by in the sparkling water just past the parking lot.

Those icebergs either wash out to sea or wash back in on the black sand beach at the end of the river-mouth just a short walk away from the Glacial Lagoon. This beach is fittingly called Diamond Beach because of the stunning chunks of ice that wash ashore there. It was a beautiful dreamlike place to take a stroll on the beach and pick up stunning, multicolored chunks of ice that are taking up temporary residence on the beach.

We can’t wait to return to Iceland. This beautiful country is calling us back already. Maybe next time we will tackle the entire ring road, or the Westfjords, or the North, or the Highlands. We are not sure what the next trip will entail–but we are certain we want to go back.

The post Iceland Road Trip Part 2: The South Coast (Vik, Skaftafell, Jokulsarlon) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Iceland is one of those places that is simply PERFECT for road tripping! The size is manageable, the landscapes are awe inspiring, and the culture is truly amazing. And, the camping culture is particularly awesome. If an Iceland road trip is moving off of your bucket list and onto your to-do list, this post will help you plan your trip, as we share our itinerary, tips, and first-hand experiences from our recent trip.

If you can’t tell, Iceland simply knocked us off our feet, so we are bringing you a 3-part series all about our trip. Click here to find out 53 Things To Know Before You Go, then read this post to hear about the first part of our trip (Reykavik and the Golden Circle), and then check back for the next post to hear about the rest of our trip along the South Coast.

We had so much help planning our itinerary from Icelanders and those experienced visitors, and we just want to pay it forward! We hope this helps inspire you to plan your own Iceland road trip.

Use code rvatlas10 for 10 percent off a motorhome rental with Rent Easy Iceland AND free pickup and drop off from and to the KEF airport. Do not book the transportation as part of your reservation or you will be charged for it. Send an email or direct message on social media with arrival and departure dates and your pickup and delivery will be arranged from there. Our code CAN be combined with any other discounts available on their website. This is not an affiliate code and we do not earn a percentage from your reservation. We truly hope to inspire you to go to Iceland and we loved our experience with Rent Easy Iceland.

How Much Does an Iceland Road Trip Cost?The number one question we have received about our Iceland RV road trip is: How much did it cost? We always hate to put a number on things since costs greatly vary by your own tastes, the time of year you visit, location, and so much more. But, here are some facts:

• AIRFARE: We only paid $500 per person for airfare from JFK since we live on the East Coast. Obviously, you’ll pay more if you have to fly from the other side of the country or a more remote location. TIP: Use Google Flights to find out the typical airfare and to set up alerts if prices go up and down. We flew Delta, but we’ve heard you can find good deals from PLAY, which is a budget airline.
• MOTORHOME RENTAL: For a ballpark figure, expect to pay around $300 per night as a very general figure. Again, costs will vary by season and many other variables. The best way to get a cost idea is to go to the Rent Easy Iceland website and punch in some dates and options to get true costs.
• CAMPSITE PRICES: Prices seemed to be around $20-$70 a night, with our costs more often being $40-50. So, all in with the RV rental, you are under $400 a night, which definitely near the same price or less than most hotels in Iceland. Aside from the price, road tripping in a motorhome is a great way to explore the country because you can easily move from stop to stop with your home on wheels.
• DIESEL: We paid around $8 per gallon and got 23 miles per gallon. So, this was also a cost, but it was less than we expected.
• MEALS: We ate out and thought the prices were quite comparable to home, so food likely won’t cost more than a usual road trip in the U.S. One great thing to note is that there are no tips. So, the costs may look high up front, but they actually aren’t. If you are looking to save money, plan to cook in the motorhome.
• ACTIVITIES: This is another spot where costs will really vary. Some people add a lot of tours and day trips, which can be pricy. As we discuss our itinerary below, we’ll try to share some of the costs of these popular stops and activities.

If you want to hear all of the details from our recent Iceland road trip, click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas in your favorite podcast app.

Blue LagoonBlue Lagoon

We started our journey at the phenomenal Blue Lagoon. After a plane ride, it’s the perfect place to unwind and to get your first taste of Iceland. We paid around $104 per person for the upgraded “Premium” package that included the experience, 2 drinks, showering before and after, and a bathrobe. One great tip is that there is a line for the people with the base package, and this Premium upgrade let us skip the line.

Paying for the upgrade is really just the same as paying for drinks, and the drinks were absolutely worthwhile. We tried out the juices and really enjoyed them. If you go, check out the Green is Good and the Forever Fresh! Seriously delicious! The spa has a cafeteria (grab-and-go style) or a restaurant. We opted for the cafeteria, and it was definitely better than the typical grab-and-go fare in the U.S. Think sushi, cheese platters, etc.

Yes, the Blue Lagoon is touristy. But, it truly didn’t feel like a gimmick. It offered a nice, relaxing spa experience. It was huge and beautiful. (And no, the sulfur wasn’t too stinky and the naked shower wasn’t too creepy. Don’t worry!). We definitely recommend this as your welcome to Iceland as you leave the airport. Just know that volcanic eruptions can interrupt your plans, as it has had to close on occasion.

Picking Up the Motorhome From Rent Easy IcelandRent Easy Iceland picked us up at the Blue Lagoon, making it super convenient to go pick up our motorhome. This wasn’t special treatment–you can get picked up, too if you use our discount code listed at the top of this post.

While at Rent Easy Iceland, you’ll get the full motorhome walkthrough from Diddi or Gardar–the brothers that own this Rent Easy Station. These two brothers are real campers themselves and they will really help you feel comfortable with your rental before you hit the road.

Reykavik Eco Campsite (First Night)Here’s another important tip: Don’t book a campground too far from where you pick up your motorhome. Our first stop at Reykavik Eco-Campsitewas maybe 20 minutes down the road from Rent Easy Iceland, and that was enough for our first busy day of travel. This campground is right in Reykavik, giving you easy access to a lot of amenities.

This campground is in Reykavik, but it’s not in the popular downtown area. So, to get to some of the more “famous” Reykavik restaurants and attractions, you would need to drive or take a cab. Since you probably won’t want to park the motorhome, we really recommend taking a cab.

We really liked the vibe of this campground and had a great stay! It was the most expensive of the campgrounds we stayed at, but we weren’t surprised since we were in the city. It’s a great place to begin and end your trip. (We opted for a hotel for our final night, though, since we had an early flight out the next morning).

Your Friend in Reykavik Traditional Food TourTo get an introduction to Icelandic foods, we booked a traditional food tour with Your Friend in Reykavik. If you wonder why the food in Iceland is the way it is, this tour will tell you! It’s really fascinating to hear about how the history and location affected food preservation and traditions.

We didn’t book a private tour, but we ended up being the only people on the tour, and we had a great guide. So, this ended being a really cool experience! You’ll get to try all kinds of things and will learn so much about the stews, waffles, hot dogs, fermented shark–and so much more! Plus, as you walk around the city, it’s easy to fall in love with Reykavik.

Don’t forget that you can check out this post/episode to hear more about these foods and some of our experiences, and click play on the media player above to hear us share more experience about all of the great things on this itinerary!

Breakfast at Bread and Co.We had our first breakfast in Iceland at Bread and Co., and wow, we seriously fell in love with the breads. Everything was SO SO good! TIP: Grab some breads to go. They are the perfect road trip snack. Another tip, remember to call coffee “Americano” if you want a regular cup of coffee. Just note that they are smaller than our usual serving sizes in the U.S.

There are multiple locations, so make sure you GPS the correct location to find one near the campground.

Snorkeling at Silfra (Thingvellir National Park)With bellies full of bread and coffee, we drove right to Thingvellir National Park, which was around an hour away in what is called Iceland’s “Golden Circle.” Stephanie had book a snorkeling tour through DIVE.IS. She did the Silfra tour, during which you will snorkel through tectonic plates, which is a truly unique experience.

The water is super clear, so you can see far underwater. You can see the tectonic plates moving. You can even drink the water! Yes, that does seem unimaginable, but it truly is sparkling clean. Plus, the landscape above water is also stunning, with snow-capped peaks (see those above!) and a waterfall hike (more on that below).

Prices start at around $200 and go up from there, depending on what options you need/add. You do wear a dry suit, and it can feel like a lot, especially if you’ve never done it. Plus, your hands do get cold since they aren’t covered in wet suit material.

Oxararfoss Waterfall Hike in Thingvellir National ParkWhile at Thingvellir National Park, we decided to do the hike to Oxararfoss Waterfall. It’s a mile each way, making for two miles round trip. The hike is easy enough, and the waterfall was really lovely. It didn’t end up being our very favorite waterfall, but it’s a nice way to get a taste of this national park.

Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal BathsLaugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths offer a similar experience to Blue Lagoon. We liked it even better! The price range was around $35.00 per person. You can also add on an experience where they teach you about the geothermal rye-bread baking traditions–which happen underground. We didn’t do it, but it looked really interesting.

Tips: The bread and soup bar was quite good! We paid to rent towels, and it was really unnecessary. Also, if you are looking to save money, we would pick this over Blue Lagoon, especially if you have kids to pay for, as well. You can also go to the community pools, but you won’t get a spa experience.

The Geysir GeyserThe geyser named Geysir, appropriately enough, is a very popular stop on Iceland road trips of the Golden Circle. We must confess that we were a little underwhelmed by this. Maybe that’s because we’ve been to Yellowstone. So, we definitely don’t want to diss it, but it wasn’t our favorite…especially when there are so many other wonderful things to see.

Another reason we might not have loved Geysir is because we drove a long way to get there because we went off the Golden Circle loop for other adventures. So, we may have been a bit tired! If it’s on your way or if you’ve never seen a geyser, it is worth a stop. Don’t let us bring you down!

The Old Dairy Food Hall in SelfossNext up was a meal at Old Dairy Food Hall in Selfoss. This was such a cool experience! The food hall is like a mall food court, but with trendier street-style or food-truck style fares. We walked around for 15 minutes trying to decide between a ton of great options. It’s nice because everyone can pick their own options and then gather together at the large central tables.

Reykjarmork Campsite in Hveragerdi (Second Night)After a fully adventurous day, we were ready to tuck in for the night at our second campsite, the Reykjarmork Campsite in Hveragerdi. This was a charming little spot with lovely surroundings. The bathrooms and showers weren’t super clean, so that can be a turn off (luckily, we had showered at the Fontana spa earlier).

The town of Hveragerdi is pretty cool in its own right. Stop by the visitor center. You can find a marked spot where you are technically standing in two continents because of the tectonic plates. The town swimming pool also was highly recommended, but we didn’t have time to get there. We really enjoyed the Almar Bakery and had quite an experience shopping for groceries like a local at Bónus. It had Aldi’s vibes! TIP: You can press a button to change the digital display to English!!

Snowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier with Mountaineers of IcelandSnowmobiling on Langjokull Glacier with Mountaineers of Iceland was the experience of a lifetime! It all starts with the drive. Look at the picture of the truck above–it’s really crazy! Then, snowmobiling was super fun and exciting. The guides help keep you safe, even if you have never ridden a snowmobile before. Now, they can be a little hard to drive, depending on how you place yourself and your partner. So, if you feel uncomfortable one way, try switching places!

We cannot tell you enough how beautiful it was to be on top of a glacier. We were lucky enough to have blue skies, adding even more to the beauty. As far pricing, it was around $200 per person. So, we do think this was worth it, though we know that can be expensive for a family. When traveling with our kids, we do try to pick at least one special experience whenever we can. Going as a couple gave us a little more freedom to pay for these kinds of extras.

If you want to hear us stumble through our Icelandic pronunciations and hear more details about all of these adventures, click play on the media player above!

Gullfoss WaterfallThe Gullfoss Waterfall is huge, powerful, and stunning! It’s definitely worth seeing, especially if you do the snowmobile tour since the trail is right where you get dropped off. Even as cool as it is, it still wasn’t our favorite waterfall. More on those to come in the next post! We have so much more to tell you about!

So, have you booked your flight to Iceland yet? If you’re not quite convinced that you want to take a Iceland road trip, check back to hear about the second part of our trip, which was really our favorite!

The post Iceland Road Trip Part 1: Reykavik and the Golden Circle appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Have you ever dreamed of booking an Iceland RV Rental and taking an epic road trip across the country? We have had that dream for many years–and recently turned it into a reality. The kids stayed at home for this one–and the trip was very much a sneak peek of what travel might look like for us when they fly the coop. We booked a 22 foot (automatic) motorhome rental from Rent Easy Iceland and had an incredible experience with them from start to finish. Below are are 53 things you should know before you go. Read this post so you are prepared and ready to have the trip of a lifetime.

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie talk about 53 things you need to know before you take an RV rental trip to Iceland–click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

Use code rvatlas10 for 10 percent off a motorhome rental with Rent Easy Iceland AND free pickup and drop off from and to the KEF airport. Do not book the transportation as part of your reservation or you will be charged for it. Send an email or direct message on social media with arrival and departure dates and your pickup and delivery will be arranged from there. Our code CAN be combined with any other discounts available on their website. This is not an affiliate code and we do not earn a percentage from your reservation. We truly hope to inspire you to go to Iceland and we loved our experience with Rent Easy Iceland.

Icelandic CultureBlue Lagoon

1. Iceland is easy to get to. We flew direct from JFK for $500 each. For us this is closer, easier, and less expensive than flying to Yellowstone, Glacier, and California. Iceland is not Antarctica. It’s easier to get to than most people think.

2. Almost everyone speaks English in Iceland. Every single Icelander we met spoke English–and very good English at that. Iceland may look like another planet–but communicating there is very easy.

3. Iceland is (for the most part) very welcoming to tourists. Generally speaking–Icelanders like tourism. It is currently the number one driver of their economy. They also like Americans and American culture, music, and television. Iceland is a European country but very different than other European countries we have visited.

1. Iceland is one of the cleanest countries we have ever visited. Period! End of story. Every town and national park we visited was meticulously clean. This is partly due to the small population of the country–but also due to a love of neatness and order. Almost every restroom, shower, and spa we visited was spotless.

5. Icelandic people are “can do” entrepreneurial but also easy going and relaxed. Life moves at a more relaxed pace in Iceland (when compared to America at least) even though they are “can do” people. Their unofficial national saying is “Thetta Reddest” which translates to “It will all work out.” This saying really does crystalize the essence of the Icelandic people–at least in our eyes.

1. Icelandic spa and thermal bath culture is amazing. There are big (heavily) touristed thermally heated spas like Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon–and then there are smaller community pools that also have warm water and showers. There is also everything in-between these two extremes. If you don’t go to a spa or community pool–did you really go to Iceland?

7. The population of Iceland is 382,000–the country is not crowded when it comes to driving, parking, etc… 60 percent of those people live in in the greater Reykjavik area.

1. Free drinking water is available everywhere and it is fresh and good. Icelanders are proud of their drinking water and they should be.

9. Clean bathrooms are available just about everywhere that tourists might go. At least along the Golden Circle and along the south coast where we visited.

10. We found driving in Iceland (even Reykavik) to be easy and the roads are good. This was in MAY–not winter–and along the south coast.

11. Drive the speed limit or let people pass by putting your blinker on and slowing down. There is not a lot of traffic though and this was not really a stressful issue.

12. They drive on the right side of the road. This made driving there quite a bit less stressful. Though we have driven on the left side before in Ireland.

13. You need to bring appropriate layers of clothing to Iceland. Bring those layers with you everywhere. We had temps in the low 50’s almost every day in May. But the weather can change quickly–light rain comes and goes. You should also bring real hiking shoes and bring long underwear for hikes and outdoor excursions–something good quality like Merino Wool.

14. Reykjavik is an incredible European city with great food and culture-–plan to spend at least a day there before heading out into the countryside. The Reykavik Eco Campsite is in the city and makes exploring the city easy.

15. Once you leave Reykavik the natural world is amazing and the population drops. You will start finding hiking, waterfalls, beaches, rivers, and incredible vistas almost immediately.

Diamond Beach, Iceland

16. The most common first trip with an Iceland RV Rental is Reykavik, the Golden Circle, and the Southern Coast to Vik or Skaftafell–we went as far as Diamond Beach and headed back to Vik and then Reykavik–spending one more night in each place.

17. Iceland is not Disney World--there are things there that can killl you. Use common sense.

18. Consider the shoulder seasons of May and September for better pricing and even less crowded conditions.

19. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. We did not touch Icelandic Currency (Krona). One time we needed Icelandic coins for the pay showers at the Vik Campsite. They gave them to us for free. You can purchase them with credit card when you pay for your site.

Icelandic Camping CultureHveragerdi Campsite

20. In Iceland they are called campsites not campgrounds. Their camping culture is amazing and there are campgrounds (uh… campsites) all over the country. Most are not all open all year though–so do your homework before you go.

21. Many guidebooks say reservations for campsites are not required. But we think that is changing. Our best tip is to make reservations whenever you can—and don’t show up late if possible. Have a backup plan if you are going in high season—but ultimately it all works out pretty easily. Campsite prices ranged between 20-60 dollars per night while we there. Electric requires an additional fee.

22. Access to electricity was available at every campground we visited. There is not electric at every campsite–but many loops have a pedestal with multiple hookup points. Rent Easy Iceland includes a long power cord that will easily reach these pedestals.

23. You dump the tanks for your Iceland Motorhome Rental at gas stations or at public car washes. We know–this is weird for an American to do–but it worked out fine.

24. At some campsites you can’t reserve a particular site. If you leave and come back you may need to pick a different site. Sometimes you have all of the room in the world–sometimes the RVs are stacked up.

25. Individual campsites are not always well-defined in Iceland. Someone can pull in right next to you and other times there will be no one else around. Sometimes (within one campsite) they will have defined sites–and rows where the RV’s can be very stacked up.

26. Icelandic campgrounds are awesome but they are fairly simple. They often have common rooms for cooking, bathrooms, and showers–but not many amenities like playgrounds, pools etc.

27. Campsites are often located right in the small towns and within walking distance of community pools, restaurants etc. In several situations we were able to walk to get dinner and drinks and then walk back.

28. You can pull in and pay in the morning in some situations–you can pay by app in other situations. Sometimes the welcome center or pay station is only open for certain hours and may be closed when you arrive—don’t panic! Pull in and grab a site.

29. Occasionally campsites have community showers like at the Vik Campsite. But many places have private showers like Skaftafell. Three of the days on our trip we went to a spa/pool and just showered there.

30. Some showers require Icelandic coins which can be purchased when you check in and pay for your site.

31. NATIONAL PARKS ARE JOYFULLY UNCROWDED, We were completely alone on at least one hike to the Glacier at Skaftafell. We parked everywhere easily. Stephanie kept saying this must be like what American national parks were like in the 1970’s and 1980s.

Iceland RV Rental Culture (and Van Rental Culture)Skogafoss (Near Vik)

32. Using an Iceland RV Rental is a very common and popular way to see the country–and it may be the best way to see the country. Many spots are one and done. You stay one night and move on. Hopping from hotel to hotel seems exhausting to us.

33. An Iceland motorhome rental or van rental is not cheap–but neither are hotels. And you can easily cook your own food and save money that way. This would be impossible to do in a hotel.

Interior of Etrusco Motorhome Rental from Rent Easy Iceland

Motorhome Rental From Rent Easy Iceland

34. Everything about European RVs is smaller and more compact. Don’t book an Iceland motorhome rental and expect something the size and complexity of an American RV.

35. Consider a small motorhome–not a van. We loved working with Rent Easy Iceland. They have a fleet of small motorhomes (from 22 to 24 feet) that come in manual and automatic. These come with efficient Truma Combi’s for heat and hot water. We used less than one tank of propane during our weeklong stay. You can also add on a linens package which was a must for us because we were flying in from America. The owners of this Rent Easy Station (brothers Diddi and Gardar) have imported American pop up campers, and they are currently an iKamper RTT dealer. They are both outdoorsmen who love camping very much and understand the needs of American customers very well. Their fleet of Etrusco Motorhomes is gorgeous and they have floorplans that can sleep up to 5 and have seatbelts for up to 5.

36. You can rent a motorhome and bring your kids. This would be difficult to do in a van–particularly if you have bigger kids like we do. We opted to take a couple’s trip which also saved us quite a bit of money.

37. Fuel is not cheap–but the small motorhomes are very fuel efficient. At the time of this writing it costs 8 dollars per gallon for diesel in Iceland. But our 2024 Etrusco motorhome averaged 23.5 MPG. So it balanced out a little bit in the end.

Skaftafell

38. One night is enough at most places–even National Parks. This caused us to change our plans on the fly after one night in Skaftafell. After completing two of the most popular hikes at Skaftafell we decided to head back to Vik for dinner and another night at the awesome campsite there.

39. You can be spontaneous like it used to be here in America. As mentioned above, we changed our itinerary on the fly. Instead of a second night in Skaftafell we headed back to Vik for a great meal and to be closer to Reykavik on our last full day.

40. Even motorhomes can have cassette toilets in Iceland. We had a cassette toilet–like our old pop up had–we did a no #2 rule and it worked great. The cassette toilet is easy to remove and dump once you find an appropriate place to do so. We did not shower in the motorhome but could have if we felt the need.

Icelandic Food CultureBlack Crust Pizza

41. Icelandic food culture is amazing and very diverse–with both traditional food and ethnic food. They have awesome pastries and breakfast options at bakeries in just about every town we visited. Sourdough and rye bread seem to be Icelandic specialties. We had amazing bread there and often would buy an extra loaf to bring with us and snack on in the motorhome.

42. Good food like food truck food) is often available in national parks and tourist spots–not just mediocre burgers, fries and pizza like we often get stuck with at home.

43. Shopping in an Icelandic grocery store is a lot like shopping in a grocery store at home. We found prices to be comparable too.

44. The easiest way to save money is to cook and use your motorhome kitchen and outdoor grill if provided. But the food is so good and not to be missed if you can swing the expense. You could do a foodie tour in Iceland if you wanted to. There are food trucks even at somewhat remote locations. We loved the food trucks at Diamond Beach which was as far east as we went. The lobster rolls were very good there. We did not make a single meal in the RV–but we could have. We also did not make coffee in the RV–they had it everywhere we went.

45. Prices are high in Iceland–but so are prices in America. We found food and activity costs to be very much like the northeast in America—-all of the guidebooks we used make it sound so expensive though.

46. Serving sizes for coffee and food are smaller than in America. Jeremy almost started ordering two AMERICANOS.

47. Candy and sweets are very popular. There are great chocolate and licorice options everywhere.

48. Eat the hot dogs Not the fermented shark. Icelandic hot dogs are awesome and not just a dumb tourist gimmick. Iceland fermented Shark was gross and felt gimmicky.

49. Stock up and refuel in towns before heading somewhere remote. It was not as remote as we thought in a certain sense–but research your itinerary and options for fuel and groceries before heading into less populated parts of the country.

Further Inspiration for an Iceland Motorhome Rental50. Read The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland by Alda Sigmundsdóttir to learn a ton about the culture in a short easy book. You can purchase a copy here.

51. Watch the Vivid Iceland YouTube channel.

52. Watch the Chris Burkard Documentaries about surfing and cycling in Iceland. Even if you do not plan on surfing or cycling. They are incredible.

53. People that go love to go BACK for another Iceland RV Rental. They often head to the he Snaefellness Peninsula, the Westfjords, and the north for a second and third trip—-adventurous people might even head into the Icelandic Highlands in a 4X4 and camp in more remote locations,

If you are dreaming of an Iceland RV Rental we encourage you to start planning and make that dream come true. It was the trip of a lifetime for us.

The post Iceland RV Rental Adventures: 53 Things To Know Before You Go appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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In the first segment of the show we have a huge announcement to make about an upcoming international RV trip that we taking this month. You will have to tune in to the podcast to find out more. And in the second (much longer) segment of the show we will be covering four major trends from KOA’s 2024 North American Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report (which is celebrating its tenth anniversary in 2024.) We have covered major trends from the report since its inception 10 years ago and always love digging into the data.

Stephanie summarized some major trends in this year’s report over on the blog at Park Vendor Review. You can read that summary of major trends right here.

To read a high level overview of the report itself —please click here.

On the podcast we discuss the rise of “blended trips” where campers stay at more than one type of accommodation during a single trip. Then we discuss the decline of tent camping and the meteoric rise of glamping. We end the show by discussing how the boomers are back! Many boomers stayed away from camping and all kinds of travel during the pandemic–but they are returning to campgrounds in droves this year!

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss all of those trends and more click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

The post Huge Announcement! + 5 Trends from KOA’s 2024 Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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The Pacific Northwest is one of the greatest places in America for camping and outdoor adventure. Our 26-day trip to Washington State, Oregon, and the California Redwoods was one for the record books. We are definitely jonesing for a return trip. When we do return we definitely want to camp at Champoeg State Heritage Area. On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are thrilled to welcome Kristy Dobie from Willa Wanders on to the show for a terrific review of this campground and all of the awesome things you can see and do (and eat and drink) nearby.

To listen to Jeremy interview Kristy please click on the media player above–or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows! Or just read on for this guest post from Kristy. It has all of the details you need to plan a trip to Champoeg and the Willamette Valley. Thanks to Kristy for sharing her knowledge of the area and for sharing her wonderful photos!

Kristy Dobie from @willawandersPhoto by Kristy Dobie

Since 2019, Kristy Dobie has hit the road with Willa, her Airstream Trailer. With her adventurous pup, and Sony camera by her side, she has documented the journey on Instagram, TikTok, and other social media accounts. @WillaWanders is an RV and outdoor travel account that features landscape, wildlife, travel, and lifestyle photography, as well as travel itineraries and tips. Since Kristy also worked as a teacher for over a decade, conservation education is woven into her travel content with the hopes of inspiring action and respect for nature. More recently, Kristy has added international travel to her list of adventures by hosting group trips with likeminded travelers.

Champoeg State Heritage Area and The Willamette ValleyPhoto by Kristy Dobie

The Willamette Valley is a large region of Oregon that includes fertile farmland from outside of Portland down south of Eugene. Champoeg State Heritage Area is perfectly situated 7 miles east of the town of Newberg and is surrounded by wine country and some excellent dining. This is a great spot to use as a basecamp to explore Northern Oregon, including day trips to the Oregon Coast or the Columbia Gorge and Mount Hood.

Champoeg State Heritage Area is special because it helps preserve the history of the region. Unlike many other mountainous parts of our state, this campground is in a more pastoral setting along the Willamette River.

There are lots of walking and biking paths that wind through groves of trees and pastures that are home to deer and many bird species. Families may also enjoy visiting the historical museums on site or making use of the fishing and boating dock. The campground is great for a variety of campers since it includes cabin and yurt rentals as well as tent and RV camping.

Photo by Kristy Dobie

There are three different aspects of history that local museums like to focus on: the time prior to 1840, the start of Oregon’s state government, and the area’s historical importance as a transportation hub.

Prior to 1840: The Champoeg prairie was home to Kalapuya Indians. Their tribe used the area for hunting, fishing, and gathering camas bulbs, which were a staple in their diet. In 1811, fur trappers first visited the area.

The Seeds of Government: Let’s flash forward to 1841 – area settlers began holding meetings that were appropriately known as “wolf meetings” so they could discuss problems with predators. Eventually, the meetings began discussing larger issues, and in 1843, the settlers narrowly voted to establish a new provisional government for the area.

Transportation Hub: Champoeg is also known as a historical transportation hub. Although this provisional government moved in 1844, Champoeg’s location on the river made it a regular stop for stagecoaches and steam boats. Champoeg remained an important transportation link until a disastrous flood led to its total abandonment in 1892.

The Campground at Champoeg State Heritage AreaPhoto by Kristy Dobie

There are two main loops in the campground with a mix of the following site types:

• 21 full-hookup sites (sewer, electricity, water) and
• 67 electric sites with water and
• 6 tent sites
• 6 yurts (D,E & F are pet friendly) and
• 6 cabins (C4, C5 and C6 are pet friendly)
• 3 group tent camping areas
• RV group camping loop with meeting hall
• Hiker/biker camp

For RVers, the B loop has more spacious sites and full hookups. Some of those spots are pull-thru, too. During peak season, which is generally from late spring through the fall, weekend spots will regularly sell out in advance. But with many sites available, it’s common to find last-minute cancellations online. So keep checking if the dates that you’re hoping to book are full.

In the A loop of the campground, spots are closer together and many lack privacy. But the B loop is much better in that regards.

Water and electric sites are currently $31 per night. Full hookup sites are a whopping $2 more at $33 per night.

Amenities are limited–but they do offer the following:

• Flush toilets and hot showers
• RV dump station
• Ice and Campfire wood for purchase (suggestion: buy locally to prevent spread of pests)

in addition to the prairies, forest, riverside paths, and well-maintained campground, you may also want to visit the visitor center or tour the pioneer village, barn, and farmstead.

Pro tips from a local: Do not use an umbrella or you’ll look like a tourist. We wear rain coats with hoods year round. Like most places in Oregon, waterproof shoes are helpful when visiting during the rainy season (late fall through spring)

Best Time of Year To Visit?You will experience the best weather from late spring through fall. Rain isn’t uncommon, even into June. July and August bring dry/hot weather. We do occasionally see a week with triple digits in summer. The fall is a beautiful time of year to visit Oregon. Just know that depending on the severity of wildfires, some regions may be smoky in August and September. (Usually this applies to the Columbia Gorge and Central Oregon, like Bend)

Things To Do In and Around the Willamette ValleyPhoto by Kristy Dobie

• One of the advantages of this location is how many day trips you can take in the area!
• From this campsite, it would take approximately 30-40 mins to visit downtown Portland:
  • Oregon Zoo is excellent and known for their state-of-the-art elephant habitat
  • Hike forest park – At 5,200 acres, Portland’s Forest Park is one of the largest urban forests in the United States.
  • Walk along the river at the waterfront
  • Visit one of the many gardens: Rose Garden, Japanese Garden
• just under two hours to visit the iconic haystack rocks in Cannon Beach at the Oregon Coast
• about 2 hours to visit Mount Hood or the scenic Columbia Gorge:
  • Multnomah Falls – iconic waterfall in Oregon with bridge across the front
  • Incredible hiking – check alltrails for current conditions
  • Try a brewery in Hood River
  • Drive the Fruit Loop, especially in the fall, visiting farms/vineyards/local artisans along the way
  • Make time to stop for ice cream and amazing food at the very instagramable Sugar Pine Drive Inn
• Most popular activity in the area is wine tasting:
  • Wine Tasting: Stoller – one of the most well-known vineyards in the region. Always delicious and amazing views.
  • Sokol Blosser – beautiful tasting room, excellent charcuterie board
  • Archer Vineyards (which also has an RV resort located at one of their tasting rooms) – great staff
  • Hazlefern Cellars (family owned, could not be nicer, fun playlists!)
  • Chris James Cellars (delicious wine, Harvest Host location)
  • Argyle Winery for sparkling wine.
  • Be sure to try an Oregon Pinot

Recommendations for Food and DrinkPhoto by Kristy Dobie

If you’re a foodie, you’re in the right spot! Wine country is full of amazing places to eat!

• Breakfast:
  • From Russia with Love- coffee, tea, smoothies, russian foods. I suggest trying a savory pastry with your drink from their drive-through coffee cart.
• Lunch/Dinner:
  • Local burger chain: Burgerville. Try the seasonal milkshakes.
  • Red Hills Market: upscale food market with great options for picnics or dining in: pizzas, sandwiches, and more. This is very popular, even with locals.
  • Lemon and Olive: Great gyros with deliciously seasoned smash potatoes on the side
  • Rosmarino Osteria: Authentic italian. You have to try the burrata, which melts in your mouth. Be sure to get reservations in advance.
  • Trellis: burgers, pasta – everything is delicious and servers are friendly. Try for lunch or dinner.
  • Fine dining: Jory at the Allison Inn. It’s very upscale, but offers delicious high-end food in a beautiful resort and spa environment. I’ll also add that their spa is incredible if you are in need of relaxation.

Thanks again to Kristy for joining us on the podcast and sharing her knowledge of the campground (and the entire region) right here on the blog! We hope to have Kristy back on the show again soon! In the meantime–make sure you follow all of her adventures at Willa Wanders!

The post Oregon’s Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground (With Kristy from Willa Wanders) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Heading to Shenandoah National Park and looking for a scenic camping experience with great conveniences and amenities? Put Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views at the top of your list. This bucolic campground offers panoramic mountain views, easy access to national park highlights, and lots of family-friendly activities.

While Shenandoah National Park has many beautiful NPS campgrounds, none offer full hookups. Of course, many campers want these conveniences. But, we don’t want to give up the natural beauty. That’s where a park like Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views truly shines. You’ll practically feel relaxed from the moment you park your RV and set up camp.

Formerly the Luray KOA, this is a park we have visited a couple of times over the years, and we loved it each time. It was one of the cleanest and prettiest parks we’ve ever stayed in. So, we were excited to check it out again to see whether it holds up to our memories and to see what’s changed with the new ownership. Recently, Jeremy had the chance to visit with his buddy Shawn the Camera Guy.

If you’d like to listen to our review of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, click play on the media player above or find The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows.

Location of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views is located amongst the rolling hills of Luray, Virginia. It has “views” in its name for good reason — the park looks out on the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plus, you are surrounded by picturesque farmlands, with views of sheep grazing in the grasslands. You might even hear the cows moo.

The drive TO the park is pretty, the park itself is beautiful, and the location is prime for visiting Shenandoah National Park. Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views is close to some of Shenandoah National Park‘s most popular spots. You can easily hop on Skyline Drive. The park is less than 20 minutes from the Thornton Gap Entrance and just north of the Big Meadows areas.

Luray is a great basecamp for exploring the region. It is home to the Luray Caverns and many family-friendly attractions. The area is also known as a wine region. Seriously, you could spend a week here and have a relaxed vacation, while still staying entertained.

Campground Setup of Spacious Skies Shenandoah ViewsSpacious Skies Shenandoah Views is a relatively small campground. You definitely feel like you are in the country. At the center of the campground, there is a large central lawn, which really feels like a park. It’s the perfect spot for tossing a frisbee or chilling on a picnic blanket. Plus, the kids have a place to run and play.

A couple of loops of campsites surround the central green space, with a variety of setups. They have some of the coolest sites we’ve ever seen anywhere. In addition to the RV campsites, the park offers cabins, yurts, and tent sites. The yurts are really awesome. More on those in a minute.

Best Campsites at Spacious Skies Shenandoah ViewsHere are some of our favorite campsite options at the campground:

• 3rd favorite: Pull-through sites that immediately ring the field. The are very spacious and have a concrete pad with picnic table right off of your site and then another concrete padded area on the edge of the field with chairs and fire ring.

• 2nd favorite: We are going to call these the “Cow View Back Ins.” They are at the outer edge of the campground on the left side (like sites 40-50). If you want a site with an incredible view of relaxing cows these are your sites–and no joke the cows are mesmerizing at night at dusk. When the sun sets here it looks like a painting.

• FAVORITE FAVORITE: Back-in sites with mountain views. These also offer two sitting areas. They have a shaded shelter (not full roof) with picnic table right at the back of the site, as well as a second concrete pad with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit on a hill side sloping down with dreamy views.

How much will you pay for these awesome campsites? This campground uses dynamic pricing, which means rates vary by the site type, day of the week, and season. Expect to pay somewhere around $70-90 per night. The pricing is reasonable for what you’ll get, in our opinion. Yurts are around $130-150 a night and cabins around $200.

Staying in a Yurt at Spacious Skies Shenandoah ViewsSince this was a quick trip, we decided to try out the yurts at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views, and it was such a cool experience. Take a photo tour of the yurts:

Amenities at Spacious Skies Shenandoah ViewsAs we’ve mentioned, in addition to the views and beautiful sites, the amenities are another element that really take this park to the next level. If you are traveling with kids who may not 100% love those national park hikes, it’s great to have some treasures waiting at the campground.

Here are some of the amenities you’ll find at Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views:

• 2 pools — a swimming pool and a wading pool, perfect for cooling off in the summer
• Common room with pool tables and lounging area with view of the pools
• Playground & jumping pillow
• Game room
• Gem mining
• Camp store — you know how we love a good camp store, and this one didn’t disappoint
• Gas station and convenience store nearby — you can walk or bike to this well-stock spot outside of the campground
• Cosmic Canine Commons — one of the prettiest dog parks we’ve ever seen!
• Themed weekends — TONS of fun options through various seasons

Our Favorite Things to Do Near Spacious Skies Shenandoah ViewsWe enjoyed visiting Shenandoah National Park with our kids over the years. Here are some of our suggestions:

• Stop at a visitor’s center to get oriented and to learn more about the park.
• Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Shenandoah National Park include: Stony Man: Hawksbill, Dark Hollow Falls, and Bearfence Mountain rock scramble.
• Enjoy a meal at the lodges in Shenandoah National Park.
• Grab a meal at Spelunkers Burgers and Frozen Custard in Front Royal.
• If you have time, Luray Caverns is worth a visit.

To hear a lot more about these things to do near the campground, click play on the media player above or check out The RV Atlas podcast.

We hope this campground review of Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views helps you plan your visit to Shenandoah National Park!

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On this week’s Q+A episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are tackling three more questions from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook.

1. What are the best options for a budget-friendly RV water filter that gets the job done?
2. How to spend three days in and around Custer State Park?
3. Can you take Buc-ees out of Texas? Or is it not as good in other states?

Talking Water Filters With Noah and Noah from CamcoIn the first segment we invite Noah Haut and Noah Cronin from Camco to discuss the new and improved TastePURE Water Filter and why it is a great value for RV owners who want clean water at the campground without having to use bottled water. Camco’s TastePURE water filter is Made in the USA and has six stages of filtration. It also has almost 50,000 four and five star reviews on Amazon--which is pretty amazing if you stop and think about it! When it comes to budget-friendly RV water filters this one is the best in show.

Custer State Park (What To Do and What To See)Then we welcome Stephanie back on the show and talk about things to do and see in Custer State Park–and how to spend three days there with kids. Are we team Mount Rushmore–or team Crazy Horse? Or team neither? And do we think Jewel Cave is worth the visit? Or should visitors concentrate their time within Custer itself?

Can You Take Buc-ees Out of Texas?In segment three we discuss Buc-ees and whether you can take Buc-ees out of Texas. Our experiences with Buc-ees inside of the great state of Texas were stellar–but our experiences with some of their new locations outside of the Lone Star State have been a mixed bag. Newer locations have been insanely crowded with less parking and a whole lot of madness. Jeremy loved the madness. Stephanie felt a little claustrophobic.

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Are you a happy camper? Or do you find yourself getting cranky over some of the challenges that are related to the RV and camping lifestyle? Reservations can be hard to get–and prices for campsites have gone up–and so have the prices of RVs. There are some legitimate issues and concerns out there–but camping is still awesome, right?

We think there are still an abundance of things to love about the RV and camping lifestyle–and there always will be. In fact, we think camping and RVing are good for the mind, good for the body, and good for the soul! We want YOU to be a happy camper in 2024.

It’s all about having the right mindset.

On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we welcome our friend and camping buddy Phil Travaglia back on to the show to discuss tips for being a happy camper in 2024. Phil is the perfect person for this topic because he is the happiest camper we know. On this episode Phil shares 8 tips, Jeremy shares 8 tips, and we share 8 tips from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook–for a total of 24 tips for being a happy camper in 2024.

To listen to this episode of The RV Atlas please click on the media player above–or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

Or just read on right below for Phil’s 8 tips for being a happy camper in 2024!

Phil’s Tips for Being a Happy CamperTip #1 Do your homework – When you go camping, whether it be in an RV or a tent; spend some time looking into the area where you will be staying. Getting a sense of the weather, the stores and amenities nearby (in case of an emergency) and having an idea about the wildlife are important. They will help you avoid unexpected situations that may negatively impact your overall experience. A little research (and I really mean a little) can mean the difference between a great trip and wanting a “do over”.

For example: When we go camping in Montauk, knowing the weather and especially, the wind conditions will greatly affect the trip. If you plan for a windy weekend, the things you bring will be useful and not a hindrance i.e. portable canopies or shelters that will end up on the other side of the campground. Another example would be if the surf is too rough, I won’t bring my fishing gear. Which can be cumbersome to have to cart around; just to not use it.

Tip #2 Take inventory – We all know that a big part of the fun of camping is picking up gear along the way. However, this gear can really negatively impact your experiences if you are constantly shuffling it and rearranging it in the RV. As you camp during the season, take inventory. Keep a mental tally of the things you use regularly and the things you regularly shuffle around. Don’t be afraid to take the cluttering items out of the RV. Having more room in the RV and having to manage less stuff makes a huge difference in the happiness meter on a trip. For example: cooking accessories that are not going to be used take up so much space in the RV and are a constant source of frustration. It is no fun to have to play a camping version of tetris under the sink every time you need to get a pot or pan! If you are not planning any crock pot or Dutch oven meals during the trip… leave them home. They’ll still be there for you when you get back. Another example is board games. How many board games do you actually need in the camper! Bring one or two that you know will be fun for the group on your trip. Free up some space and have less to manage.

Tip #3 Be flexible – One of the biggest things to remember about camping is a lot of unplanned things happen. The weather is bad, traffic on the way causes major delays… I could go on forever. The thing to help get through these events is to be flexible. Having the ability to modify your plans is essential in being a happy camper. We are all guilty of building up expectations and itineraries for our trips, and if they don’t go to plan, that can leave us feeling disappointed. Example: One year we were on a trip with our friends Hector and Laura in the Catskill mountain region of New York. We wound up with a rainy and cold weekend. Pretty much all of our usual campground activities were out the window; it was raining that hard! Laura looked for local events that we could enjoy despite the weather. Much to our delight, she found a cupcake festival that was on rain or shine. Even though it was outdoors, it was under large tents. It was a blast! We brought our umbrellas, got our shoes and trucks a little muddy, and we had a great time. The cupcake festival was never in our original plans, but being flexible, and working with what had, kept our trip fun.

Tip #4 Maintain your gear – There is a certain amount of unspoken satisfaction that every camper feels when their gear performs as expected. Nothing can impact a trip more than having your heater stop working or your tent or lantern or stove not holding up. This is especially true when you are camping remotely (tent) or off grid in the camper. Maintaining your equipment can make all the difference. It also provides a way to get you through the long and depressing off season. Personally, it makes me happy to take out some of my gear in the winter time and clean and tune it up. Getting the camping gear out in the winter keeps the camping flame burning. It often acts to get the imagination going and motivate the planning of next season’s trips.

Tip #5 Manage your expectations – Make sure your expectations match your accommodations. What I mean by this is; don’t go to a KOA Journey level campground and get upset that the amenities are not those of a KOA Resort level campground. Another thing to keep in mind with expectations (especially for those new to RVing) is that camping is very social. Unless you are going to a state park or going off grid, you will have people around you. To me, it’s the best part of the experience. For those who are looking for solitude, this could be frustrating. If you know what type of campground you are going to, and keep an openness about you, your experience will most certainly be a positive one.

Tip #6 Know how social media (related to camping) affects you – This is a personal thing. Everyone is different. Some people can look at the endless “highlight reel” posts of amazing trips and get motivated. Some can look at them and can’t help but compare their own experiences and feel that they don’t measure up. To some, looking at tremendous, once-in-a-lifetime trips can lessen the value of their own trips. Personally, I started out in the first group, but after a while, I felt I was slipping into the latter group. I had to remind myself that the trips we take are what we can afford and they are no less valuable than the ones I was seeing posted on-line. I find that knowing yourself and finding a balance with camping related social media will make you a happier camper. If looking at dream trip after dream trip (that you cannot afford) starts creating FOMO, Look at posts related to troubleshooting problems or camping hacks. You will find purpose in those as I am sure you all have ingenious hacks to share with the most experienced campers out there.

Tip #7 Don’t be afraid to pull the plug – Over the years, the one mistake I have been guilty of making is insisting on going on a trip once it is booked. I would get so excited for the trip, that I was going; come hell or high water. Oftentimes, it was the latter that I would actually run into! Keeping an eye on the weather and listening to your gut, will provide you with more happy camping experiences than blind ambition to get out there will. Familiarize yourself with cancellation policies and keep an eye on the weather, especially for weekend trips. It is okay to back out of a trip. Last year, we went on a trip to meet up with some friends and we had our daughter’s friend with us as well as our 70lb dog Louie. We have a very small camper. We knew the weather was going to be bad for a week before the trip. We should have gracefully bowed out while we could. Instead, we went and needless to say, it was not the best experience. Sometimes it’s better to pull the plug, and survive to camp happily on another day!

Tip #8 Leave the kids at home – This one falls under the “sometimes category”, but yes, every now and again… leave the kids home. As great as camping is for the kids, it is just as fun for the adults too. To keep your enthusiasm for camping strong, I would suggest you have an occasional “grown-ups” trip. As memorable as our family trips have been, some of our weekends away without the kids have been just as memorable. Think of these occasional trips as camping’s version of “date night”. Leslie and I look forward to our annual “grown-ups” trip to the Country Living Fair. We get to enjoy some recuperative time together and recharge our batteries. We also get to enjoy the fair without having to worry about how long it would take before the kids would get bored and want to leave. Also, it is a great opportunity for the kids to have some grandparent time or visit with their cousins. Everyone wins. These trips leave you rested and rejuvenated and ready to take on the next family adventure.

We hope that you all find your inner happy camper in 2024! See you at the campground!

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On this week’s Q+A episode of The RV Atlas podcast we tackle three more questions (and letters) from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook. First we respond to a lovely message from Cheyenne Allen about our recent episode “12 Reasons Why You Should Take Your Kids RVing While They Are Young.”

Cheyenne wrote in with the following message for Jeremy and Stephanie….

“Today’s episode had me take a walk down memory lane. Our biggest is (almost) 5 and our youngest is 1.5.We’ve done weekend trips with breastfeeding babies, week long trips with a toddler (the entire blue ridge parkway!), lived in our camper for a summer/fall season, and now long weekends with both kids in tow.

I’m so thankful for our campers and the joy it brings our kids. If you’re on the fence of buying an RV with young kids, just do it. Jeremy and Stephanie- listening to you tell us what your kids have gained through camping filled me with joy and excited for the future as my littles grow. Didn’t know I would be emotional today.”

Jeremy and Stephanie responded by discussing how each stage of traveling with kids has its own distinct pleasures and its own distinct challenges.

After discussing RVing with young kids Jeremy and Stephanie answers questions about choosing an RV domicile and whether or night it is appropriate for RV owners to spend the night in spaces at rest stops that are designated for truckers. Things get a little controversial here–so make sure to tune in to the podcast wherever you get your favorite shows–or by clicking on the media player above.

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Did you know you can camp in the French Quarter of New Orleans? While this vibrant area is far from the typical landscape where you’d expect to find a campground, the French Quarter RV Resort is a short walk away, offering urban camping at its finest. On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we welcome Kerri Cox to share a campground review of the French Quarter RV Resort and everything you need to know about camping in the Big Easy.

Kerri and her husband, Russell, recently spent spring break in NOLA. They soaked up the beautiful March weather, as well as the town’s music, food, architecture, and natural offerings. The French Quarter RV Resort provided a comfortable place to relax after busy adventures in the city.

To hear Jeremy talk about Kerri’s full campground review of the French Quarter RV Resort, click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast app.

Location of the French Quarter RV ResortLocation is everything when it comes to the French Quarter RV Resort. It’s located just off Interstate 10 and a few blocks from the French Quarter. By day, it’s easy to walk to the entertainment district in 15-20 minutes. The famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is just 10 minutes by foot — more on that in a minute.

Kerri and Russell opted to arrive at the campground midday to avoid any rush hour traffic in NOLA. The drive in was not too busy. To reach the campground, you’ll exit the interstate and navigate a city street for approximately 1/4 of a mile. Aside from the potential for traffic at the busiest times of day, the campground is super easy to reach, despite its urban environment.

NOLA does have a bit of a reputation as a dangerous city, but Kerri felt safe at the park. It is gated and has 24-hour security onsite. The main thing is to just pay attention to your surroundings and to not venture off the main path. At night, it’s advisable to take a cab home (Kerri and Russell actually took a human-powered bicycle taxi home one night and found it an exhilarating way to return to camp–there aren’t many places where you can do that!).

French Quarter RV Resort Campground DetailsCAMPSITES: French Quarter RV Resort offers 52 campsites. Each is paved and has full hookups. All sites are back-ins and measure at least 30 feet by 60 feet in length. Big rigs will fit right in. Premium sites have gazebos or cabanas with lounge furniture, while the standard sites do not. Sites are fairly close together, as you might expect in a private RV park; however, Kerri felt the spacing was fair for an urban park.

AMBIANCE: While there is some grass between sites and landscaping around the pool, the sites themselves are not particularly scenic since the park is practically located under an overpass with a giant billboard towering above. Again, this is not traditional campground scenery, so you have to go in understanding that it truly is urban camping. You will hear lots of road noise and the city environment.

AMENITIES: While the scenery isn’t particularly beautiful, the campground is truly NICE. The pool and hot tub are small but have a resort vibe. The clubhouse has private bathrooms and showers, as well as a laundry room, all of which are clean and well maintained. The park does mostly cater to adults, but you might spot some kids rolling through, just like other campgrounds.

RATES: Expect to pay premium prices. Currently (as of 2024), standard sites are $120 a night (plus taxes). These sites are closer to the highway and under the brightly-lit billboard. Premium sites are $155 a night. These are slightly less noisy, have upgraded furniture, and may back up against a fence instead of being back-to-back with other RVs. While pricy, these rates are much lower than hotels in the area.

Insider Tips for Your Stay at the French Quarter RV Resort The Basin Street Station is just a 5-minute walk. It’s a stop for the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours, which offer a fun way to navigate the city without a vehicle. It also has a visitor center and cute cafe with coffees and sandwiches. It’s also the departure point for tours of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. * The campground does book up, particularly for Mardi Gras, the annual Jazz Festival, and more. Expect to pay higher prices during these special events. Summer is actually the slow season. * French Quarter RV Resort’s FAQ page has lots of helpful info for planning your visit to the park and the city. * If you want more of a natural environment, Bayou Segnette State Park* campground is highly reviewed and just 20-30 minutes or so outside of the French Quarter. * Is New Orleans just a party town? No! There is so much to see and do that you can fully enjoy the city (even with kids). The party never ends on Bourbon Street, but the rest of the French Quarter is calmer (though, probably not true during Mardi Gras).

Things to Do While Camping in New OrleansThere’s more to see than the French Quarter! While the district is within walking district from French Quarter RV Resort, it’s worth doing a bus tour, driving, or using public transportation to venture out to city parks, the Garden District, and more. Here are a few things Kerri and Russell enjoyed:

• French Quarter: With its historic architecture, this is the true heart of the city. Stroll to Jackson Square to find artists, horse-drawn carriages, live music, street cars, and more. Of course, Bourbon Street is a party by day or by night. But, there’s more to the French Quarter than the booze. You’ll find restaurants, galleries, book stores, and more. Don’t miss Crescent City Books.
• The Presbytère: Located on Jackson Square, this Louisiana State Museum has permanent exhibits about Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina, offering a nice glimpse into the city’s history.
• Cemeteries: New Orleans is famous for its above-ground burial vaults. A cemetery tour is a must! You can only visit the oldest, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, with a tour. Check out Nicholas Cage’s pyramid-shaped vault that is awaiting his arrival., and learn about the infamous voodoo queen Marie Laveau.
• City Parks: Several parks offer a natural retreat outside of the city—and good places to check out the iconic Live Oak trees with boughs of Spanish moss: City Park and Audubon Park.
• Mississippi Riverfront: A fun and cheap way to experience the river is with a ferry ride ($3). You can also stroll the riverfront or book a ride on a steamboat for a classic journey.
• Garden District: A bit further out, this area is home to the classic historic New Orleans mansions.
• Music: Aside from all the street music, venture inside to find classic jazz and more. Preservation Hall is a classic spot to take in a show. We wish you could hear this photo!

To hear more details about where to go and what to eat while camping in New Orleans, listen to the full campground review of the French Quarter RV Resort by clicking play on the media player above or by looking for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast app.

Where to Eat While Camping in New OrleansYou could eat day in and day out and still find more food and treats to enjoy in New Orleans. Here are just a few recs:

• Cafe du Monde — you have to get beignets while in town, of course! Get them at the Jackson Square location and walk to the riverfront. (Insider tip: The lines are long all day, so go at night. Get your beignets to go and walk over to the riverfront.)
• Central Grocery & Deli — grab a muffuletta sandwich to go (even if the temporary liquor store location looks sketchy, trust us!)
• Katie’s Restaurant & Bar — featured on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives (don’t overlook the simple chicken sandwich!)
• The Court of Two Sisters — great place to sample creole and cajun fare alongside traditional offerings while enjoying a jazz brunch
• Monty’s on the Square — great food on Jackson Square
• District Donuts, Sliders, & Brew — The Hot Chicken & Honey Butter Biscuit is to die for (and, even though it’s only on the breakfast menu, you may be able to get it later in the day). The ice cream is also delicious!
• Pralines — many places sell these local favorites, but Kerri especially like Laura’s Candies

To see Kerri’s photos of her trip, check out Travels with Birdy on Instagram. For more of her travels, head to the Travels with Birdy blog.

We hope you enjoyed this whirlwind tour of New Orleans! Did we cover everything you could see, do, or eat in the Big Easy? Absolutely not! However, we hope you got a sense of what it’s like to camp in New Orleans. Do you think you would try it?

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We are big believers in taking your kids RVing while they are young–and we mean very young! Our 14 year old boys, Max and Theo, went on their first RV trip when they were right around 1 years old. Our youngest, Wes, who is 11 now, went on his first camping trip when he was 4 weeks old. Those trips were challenging. But they were also magical–and formative for our children. Ten years ago we did a podcast called “The Family Road Trip, What’s in it for the Kids?” that really resonated with our audience at that time. That podcast eventually become a chapter in our book Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101–which is excerpted in this blog post–just below. We revisit that podcast in the podcast in the media player just above–and we add four more reasons whey we think you should take your young kids camping without waiting until they are older and more able.

The following excerpt was originally published in Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101 in a chapter entitled “What’s in it for the Kids.”

We started camping when our oldest kids were 11 months old because of our dreams for the future. I can honestly say it wasn’t because we had some parenting vision that involved raising our boys in the woods. We loved travel. We loved road trips. And we wanted to keep having fun in spite of the drastic changes that happened as soon as our twin babies entered the picture.

In hindsight, though, I feel so incredibly lucky that we bought that pop up camper. I didn’t realize it at the time, but it was exactly the right decision to help us raise our kids according to values that have become very important to us as parents.

Anyone that has kids knows that the early years can be like a fog. You emerge from those baby years a bit confused and disoriented, wondering what just happened. Well, as we left that baby stage behind us, we started to realize that our efforts were truly paying off. Even though it wasn’t entirely by design, we had managed to create a life that was encouraging our boys to grow in many areas that were very important to us, like patience, creativity, and curiosity.

At the time, we felt that many of these traits were limited to our actually camping experience. I would see them engage in imaginative play at the campsite in ways that wouldn’t necessarily translate to our backyard. But over the years, I have been amazed to watch these traits translate to every area of their life, including academics and organized sports.

So, yes, I am thankful that I have taken my children to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, where the sun first strikes the eastern shores of the United States each morning. And I’m also grateful that they have stood next to some of the largest Redwood trees in the world on the California coast. But I am more grateful that we stumbled into this whole camping lifestyle when they were itty bitty babies, because their lives will be forever better because of it.

I can now see that we have been giving our children the gifts of camping and I look forward to watching as they benefit for years to come.

1. The Gift of FlexibilityAs a new parent, I can admit that I was completely addicted to structure and routine. I don’t think that was a bad thing. I firmly believe it helped us avoid major breakdowns at key points in our journey. In fact, our commitment to the routine even while traveling probably made our trips much more enjoyable, even when the boys were babies. We would keep the same bedtime, nap time, and meal habits. That gave the boys a sense of familiarity and kept them from being overwhelmed by all the unknown factors that come along with travel.

Nevertheless, we were constantly introducing them to new environments. On one of our earliest family camping trips, we stayed at four different campgrounds over the course of 16 days. They had many familiar surroundings to help them feel secure (we actually traveled with their mini cribs in the pop up camper…crazy, we know), but they had to adapt their expectations for each new place. Some of the campgrounds had pools and playgrounds, and some didn’t. Over the years we have seen that they are now masters at getting the lay of the land in a new location. They don’t expect every place to be the same. They don’t need a pool to have fun. Camping has taught them how to find the best things about any new environment and embrace the fun, whether we are in the mountains or a lake or a beachside resort.

I’ll never forget the time we traveled from a Jellystone Campground in Sioux Falls, North Dakota to Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park. Our kids went from swimming in a heated pool to scrambling up clay and volcanic rock formations in the space of 24 hours and didn’t even blink. I love that they know how to have a blast in a remarkable range of environments.

2. The Gift of SociabilityMany people talk about how the American neighborhood has changed over the last few decades, and we personally found that to be true as young parents. Our friends and family were scattered across different cities and states, and we barely knew the people that lived on our block.

When we started camping, we found that a lot of those traditional social interactions were alive and well at the campground. Folks sat out in their camp chairs waving to complete strangers who were walking by. It wasn’t unusual to start up a conversation with a couple and wind up enjoying a potluck dinner together the next night. Camping introduced us to a culture where people are open to meeting new folks and starting new friendships. In fact, we now camp throughout the year with at least 10 families that we met at various campgrounds.

This has been great for us, but more importantly we now realize that it’s had a profound impact on our kids. Our boys will make new friends at a campground within hours of us pulling in. They have no problem striking up a conversation with some kids at the playground. I’ve seen them independently introduce themselves and ask where the other kids are from. They know how to organize a pick up game of tag in a split second.

A couple of years ago these experiences ended up having a profound impact on our neighborhood at home. I had gotten sucked into the playdate culture, organizing social interactions for my kids throughout their childhood. But they had reached the age where I wanted them to develop some social independence. I told the boys that I was done being their social secretary. If they wanted to play, they were going to have to go to their friends’ houses, knock on the door, and ask if little Johnny could play.

At first they resisted, but soon enough they mustered the courage to walk a couple of houses down and see if their friends could play. Two years later, I cannot believe the impact this has had on our neighborhood. I regularly have 12 or more kids playing in my backyard after school or riding bikes together around our loop of houses. They play manhunt across each other’s yard and race scooters down the hill.

Max and Theo tell me that their friends at school, from the same town, think it’s crazy that all the kids in our neighborhood knock on each other’s doors every day after school and find out who can play. Apparently they all think that we live in a super fun area of town. I believe in my heart of hearts that we brought the campground back to our little slice of suburbia, and in a way transformed our kids’ childhood experience.

3. The Gift of Imaginative PlayWe know unscheduled, creative playtime is at risk for our kids. As much as we try to resist that, we get sucked into the busyness just like most other families out there. When we are at home, our boys are constantly asking us what the next exciting event is. Even when we attempt to have lazy, laid back Saturdays, the kids are asking for the schedule of activities by midmorning.

Camping puts us in a different environment and helps our children shift modes. They intuitively head into the woods and find sticks for sword fights. They swing each other in the hammock. They build sand castles when we are beach camping and try to catch crayfish when we are near a stream. Sticks, rocks, pickup games with kids at the campground. Even when there is a bounce pillow at the campground, they are having seat drop contest or playing Mother May I with other kids.

Campsites with interesting natural features tend to really bring out our kids’ creativity. I’ll never forget one campsite in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. There was a giant rock to the side of the site, and our boys did nothing by play on that rock for four days straight. From that moment on I understood how camping could inspire my boys to be more creative people.

4. The Gift of Physical ActivityJeremy and I are naturally active people. Before the boys were born we were never the type to be bored on a day off from work. Between surfing, yoga, gardening, biking, and a million other hobbies, we kept ourselves busy. When kids came along, getting out of the house became more complicated, and we noticed that our activity level went way down. Even now that they are older, we still struggle to spend as much time outside as we should. Going for a walk on our local boardwalk sometimes feels like more work than it’s worth.

There is no doubt that we have a more active lifestyle when we are camping and traveling. The boys wake up in the morning and are on their bikes before breakfast is even ready. I even notice that I walk the dog more when we are camping, since it’s so easy to just stroll around the campground. We’re more likely to look for nearby hiking spots or find a beautiful lake to launch the kayaks. The best part of this is that by the end of the day, the kids are completely worn out and fall asleep before their heads hit the pillow.

5. The Gift of PatienceI didn’t grow up fishing, so when we started camping it was not part of our usual routine at the campground when the boys were babies. But campgrounds often have small catch and release ponds, so as they got older, the kids would regularly ask to fish. I’ll never forget the first time I watched my three year old sit for almost an hour, trying to catch a little sunfish. This was a kid who never stopped moving, yet he was willing to wait quietly for a fish to find his bait.

The same thing happens on long car rides or challenging hikes. My boys are normally balls of energy that bounce from one thing to the next. So many parts of our camping life encourage them to wait patiently for the pay off.

6. The Gift of CuriosityAs someone who loves learning new things, I’ve always wanted my kids to be curious people. I wanted them to know that there is a big, beautiful world outside and it’s worth exploring. I believe our camping trips helped establish that same curiosity in my children from a very young age. They know that the world outside of their own home is diverse. They know that different places will offer different types of adventures. I love that they are always excited to disover something new on our upcoming camping trips.

We’ve heard this feedback from teachers over and over again throughout the years. The boys’ teachers always seem shocked at how diverse their knowledge is and how interested they are in thematic learning. I’m confident that’s a direct result of us teaching them about the Civil War while touring Charleston or about the lobster industry on a boat in Maine.

7. The Gift of a Love for Nature A little while ago we were driving along the Wildlife loop in Badlands National Park, and we pulled the truck over to check out the prairie dog town. My boys were shocked and scandalized to find another family feeding pretzels to the animals. They went on and on about it for days. Didn’t they know it’s wrong to do that? Don’t they realize it harms the prairie dogs?

Their regular exposure to nature and wildlife at state and national parks over the last decade has given the boys such a wealth of appreciation for the world around them. We never could have taught those same lessons from books or other media. They don’t just know the rules of the Leave No Trace philosophy. They also understand the purpose behind it. They know how overfishing affected the ocean waters of New England and how the natural world recovered from the eruption of Mount St. Helens. I’m so grateful that my kids are in awe of nature.

8. The Gift of a Family Narrative We had a lot of adventures when the boys were very young that we assumed they would never remember. That wasn’t the point at all. First of all, we wanted to have fun ourselves. Plus, we figured we were training them up as our little adventure buddies for the future.

Well, it’s shocking to us how much our kids do actually remember about our adventures. Apparently a lot of these exciting moments have stuck. Of course we are always retelling the highlights of trips again and again throughout the years, but it’s also become a part of their identity. They think of themselves as explorers and travelers. They expect us to take them to epic destinations. And we are happy to deliver on that year after year.

To find out four more reasons why you should take your kids RVing while they are young–please click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

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We have rented several RV’s over the years (for a variety of different reasons) and we have loved the experience each and every time. Renting has given us the opportunity to try different types of RVs (like Class A, B and C motorhomes) and it has allowed us to camp at Disney World in the winter when we did not want to tow our own rig down from New Jersey. The peer to peer RV rental market has exploded in recent years and, in many areas of the country, there are plenty of options to choose from. When we have looked to rent we have always found plenty of options to choose from.

On today’s episode of the RV Atlas podcast we are pleased to welcome Maddi Bourgerie from RVshare onto the show for the very first time to talk about all aspects of enjoying an RV rental: we talk about tips for selecting an RV, tips for budgeting, tips for renting our own RV’s, and so much more. At the heart of our interview we also discuss a wide variety of the RV rental adventures that Maddi has taken over the years.

Maddi’s boyfriend even proposed to her on an RV Rental adventure in Hawaii and they have had many other RV rental adventures since then!

“Maddi is a travel expert who has worked in the industry for a decade, visited almost all 50 states and rented more than 20 RVs (for a wide variety of bucket list trips and adventures.) She currently works full-time for RVshare and is dedicated to the company’s mission to help travelers experience the magic of an RV adventure. Maddi has RVed on the East and West Coast checking off National Parks and music festivals from her bucket list. Her career has been dedicated to sharing her passion for travel.”

RVshare is the largest online community for RV renters and owners with a diverse selection of vehicles for rent across the US, ranging from luxury motorhomes to cozy camper vans. On RVshare you’ll find vehicles that can accommodate any outdoor adventure, whether it’s a weekend of camping or a cross-country tour of national parks. RVshare was Founded in 2013 in Akron, Ohio and has more than 100,000 RVs for rent across the country, from 60,000 owners. It is a peer-to-peer platform similar to Airbnb.

To save $30 dollars on a $500 dollar or more RV rental from RVshare please use code RVATLAS30 at checkout. For more tips about renting RV’s from RVshare please click here.

On this episode of the RV Atlas (which you can listen to by clicking on the media player above) Maddi shares tips about choosing the right RV rental. We discuss the following topics:

• Different RV Classes
• RV Delivery
• What are the important amenities?
• What is best for your group?
• Taking advantage of the search filters that RVshare has (amenities, pet-friendly, distance, etc)
• Flying to your destination and then renting
• How rentals are perfect for first-timers

We also discuss the different types of RV rental experiences that can be had with an RVshare rental.

• RV Delivery
• Boondocking
• Campgrounds
• Road Trip s
• Music Festivals/Events
• Parking in your own driveway for extra room (family reunions, weddings)
• Local trips – nearby State Park or Campground
• Fly to your destination and rent

Maddi also share tips to consider when budgeting for an RV rental.

• Rentals on RVshare range from $50 a night to $250+ a night
• You Must Consider Taxes and Fees
• Mileage
• Gas Prices
• Campground fees

Maddi’s RV Rental AdventuresMaddi has used RV rentals for 20+ trips to a wide variety of places and for a bunch of different uses. Here are some of the highlights:

Camper Van Rental in Hawaii

• Camper van in Hawaii – got engaged to my fiance (who also works at RVshare)
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1666977
• Class B 2020 Dodge Promaster, custom build-out with solar power

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons

• Campervan through Yellowstone and Grand Tetons
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1194195
• 2019 winnebago Revel – off-roading, solar-powered, shower and toilet

Airstream rental to Big Bend.

• Pulled an airstream to Big Bend National Park with my Volvo SC60
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1470649
• Caravel 22FB Travel Trailer

Family Reunions

• Parked an RV in my parents front yard for a family reunion
• https://rvshare.com/rvs/details/1181565
• $185 a night – 2019 Forest River wildwood X-Lite

We wrap up the show with some lessons that Maddi has learned from her 20+ RV rental adventures. Here are her final tips!

• The owner’s are super useful – make sure to get in contact with them ahead of time and learn the ins and outs of your rental at pick up/delivery
• Read reviews before booking
• There will almost always be a Walmart stop involved
• It is always a unique, memorable experience but doesn’t come without “roughing” it – camping showers, no turn down or daily maid service 😉
• Your family will LOVE it – families with kids 7-16 say it is the best family vacation ever
• Try before you buy
• If you own, renting an RVshare is an undertaking. It is providing a hospitality experience to others. But it can be extremely rewarding and brings in extra income.

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On this week’s Q+A episode of the RV Atlas podcast we tackle four more questions from our private facebook–which you can join here. We talk about options for replacing the RVQ with products from Blackstone, Weber, and more. We also discuss things to do in the Redwoods, and places to camp in Lake George, NY. At the end of the episode we also discuss the best tankless water heaters.

Replacing the RVQOur first question on this week’s RV Atlas podcast (which you can listen to by clicking on the media player above) is about replacing the dreaded RVQ that came with your RV. We recommend new products by Blackstone, Weber, and more. For a great resource about replacing your RVQ check out this podcast from 2021. We go over the best options for camp stoves, grills, and griddles.

Should I Get a Camp Grill, Camp Griddle, or Camp Stove?

Things to do in Redwood National and State ParksOur trip to the PNW a few years back was one of our greatest adventures as a family. We spent four nights in the Redwoods and experienced amazing hiking amongst the mystical Redwood trees. Here is our podcast about the Redwoods and all of the wonderful hikes and family activities that we did there. It is a terrific resource for planning your own trip to this bucket-list worthy destination in Northern California.

RVFTA #155 Greetings from the Redwoods National and State Parks in California!

Lake George CampgroundsWe also discuss the two best campgrounds in the Lake George area of New York State. Moose Hillock and Lake George RV Resort are often mentioned as the two best campgrounds in this stunning region of the Adirondack Park. Here is our review of Moose Hillock from a few years back.

Our Return to Lake George and Moose Hillock NY

As for tankless water heaters? We recommend the Truma AquaGo as best in class. But we are happy with our Furrion that came standard in our Grand Design Imagine.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts and we hope to see you at the campground!

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We have long considered Virginia to be one of the most underrated states for camping in America. Virginia has camping in the mountains, and near the sea. There is camping along many rivers and along the quiet shores of the Chesapeake Bay. The entire state is also packed with historical and cultural sites–and many of them are near campgrounds. Virginia state park campgrounds are also excellent and a point of pride among Virginia’s RV owners and tent campers.

Virginia state park campgrounds are beautiful and in most cases, incredibly well maintained. Many of the campgrounds within the system also have sites with water and electric that are quite affordable at around $35 dollars per night.

We are thrilled to have Campin’ Erin on the RV Atlas this week to discuss Virginia’s state park campgrounds. In particular, three of her absolute favorites: Douthat State Park, Pocahontas State Park, and James River State Park. To listen to Jeremy interview Campin’ Erin please click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

Or read on below to find out a little bit more about these three Virginia state park campgrounds.

All photos compliments of Campin’ Erin. Thanks Erin!

Douthat State ParkPhoto Compliments of Campin’ Erin

Douthat State Park campground is Campin’ Erin’s new favorite. This campground is located in the mountains and is a bit cooler in the summertime. There is a lake in the state park that is great for swimming, fishing, and recreation. The beach here is terrific and has excellent mountain views. There are three different camping areas in the park–and Campin’ Erin likes White Oak the best because of its shaded sites. Whispering Pines is open year around and more out in the open–and there is a third camping area right by the lake. Cabins and Lodge rooms are also available.

To find out more about camping at Douthat State Park–please click here.

Pocahontas State ParkPhoto Compliments of Campin’ Erin

Pocahontas State Park is only 20 minutes away from Richmond–but it feels like it is a world away from the city. Recreational opportunities are abundant in this state park with options for boating, hiking, and swimming and playing in their epic aquatic center. There are also terrific educational and cultural programs that take place at the park’s 2,000-seat amphitheater (pictured above). Campin’ Erin loves the campgrounds here because they have huge campsites and feel very private and removed from some of the hustle and bustle in the rest of the park. There are lots of options for cabins and yurts here–making it a great place for camping with friends and family that don’t tent camp or RV.

To find out more about camping at Pocahontas State Park–please click here.

James River State ParkPhoto Compliments of Campin’ Erin

Virginia state park campgrounds are so beautiful–and James River State Park is definitely one of the prettiest. Located in Gladstone, Virginia in south central Virginia–this state park features a lovely campground set among rolling hills. There are 16 cabins here and there are also lodges available that can accommodate multiple families at a terrific price. The RV sites feature water and electric at a bargain price and some of them can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet. Campin’ Erin and her family loved the natural playground–and you will too!

To find out more about James River State Park–please click here.

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On this week’s Q+A episode of The RV Atlas we tackle another three questions from our Facebook group. We discuss where everyone is camping for the upcoming 2024 Solar Eclipse and how crafty RV owners are at finding great spots to view this celestial event. Then we discuss a whole bunch of options for easy camping meals from walking tacos to smash burgers to pie iron pizzas! Then we wrap up the show by discussing whether overnighting in free locations like Walmart and Cracker Barrel is actually worth it–or whether its better to just pony up a few bucks and stay at a KOA.

We hope you join us for another great Q+A episode of the RV Atlas podcast! See you at the campground!

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Is it possible to start the spring camping season without some new gear? Don’t ask us because we’ve never tried it! Welcome to our annual RV and camping gear guide. We have over a dozen great picks from our favorite RV supplies, cooking gear, apparel, pet camping accessories, and so much more to share with you.

We are joined by someone who happens to know a lot about all of these camping and RV accessories. Joshua Sheehan from RV Gear and Far is going to tell us about some of his favorite picks. Joshua considers himself a “total RV junkie,” and he shares his knowledge, hacks, and favorite gear on his YouTube page. Check it out to see him putting some of this gear in action!

Let’s hop in and take a look at some great gear to put on your spring RV stock-up list!

To listen to Jeremy and Joshua Sheehan talk about a bunch of cool, new RV accessories, click on the media player above. Or look for The RV Atlas wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

DeWalt 9 ft. Magnetic Pocket Tape Measure ($5.99)Joshua’s Pick #1: The DeWalt 9-foot magnetic tape measure is one of those small items that comes in handy way more often than you would expect. This is great for checking clearance at the campground, measuring items in your interior, and more. It has a pocket clip, and the magnet is a cool feature. For around $6 bucks, it is an absolute bargain!

Blackstone Adventure Ready 14″ Camping Griddle with Side Burner ($140)Jeremy’s Pick #1: We already know how much we here at The RV Atlas love our Blackstone griddles. This year, Blackstone is out with a new line of camping griddles–and these are specifically designed for camping. What makes them different from the Blackstone griddles you may already know and love? These are much more lightweight and easier to pack for your camping trips–and they are already getting a lot of buzz from tent campers and overlanders.

You’ll only find this new line at Walmart in the camping aisle. They have 14-inch model with side burner and a 20 inch model. These are different from the original Blackstones in a couple of ways. Instead of a cast iron top, these use Titanium Ceramic cooktop (not Teflon). Plus, they come with a latching hood that locks. t’s a quality griddle top you can carry like a briefcase, like the old-fashioned Coleman camping stoves.

Streamlight Microstream Flashlight ($19.99) and Leatherman Skeletool ($89.95)Joshua’s Pick #2: Next up, we have two pieces of gear that Joshua calls his “everyday carry combo.” Grab a Streamlight Microstream flashlight and the Leatherman Skeletool CX, pop these two items in your pocket, and you are ready for almost anything!

Before you start carrying a flashlight, you might not realize how often you could use one. Joshua loves the Streamlight Microstream because it is rechargeable, and it’s only three-four inches, making it the perfect pocket size. The clip makes it easy to attach to a baseball camp, which comes in handy when you need to have your hands free. Plus, it has two light settings, allowing you to decide whether you want more light or a longer battery.

The Leatherman Skeletool CX is the perfect multitool. This is not your grandad’s pocket knife. It has a blade, pliers, a wire cutter, screwdrivers (with changeable bits), and more. It has the essentials for many quick repairs you might need to do in the RV. It’s small and lightweight in your pocket. Sure, a bigger, more robust one would have more functionality, but you being to lose the “pocketability.” Plus, the warranty is amazing.

LightRanger 1200 Telescoping Camping Light ($159)Jeremy’s Pick #2: Looking for the perfect way to light up your campsite? Check out the LightRanger 1200 Telescoping Camping Light. This is not a flashlight. Instead, it is a high-powered LED lantern with a telescoping tripod. It is USB-C rechargeable, goes up to 1200 lumens, and telescopes up to nine feet in height. It’s perfect for lighting up your outdoor cooking area or your home grill.

The lantern has a ton of settings to make it dimmable and to direct the light where you need it most. Plus, there are additional accessories you can buy like filters and a motion sensor (who doesn’t love accessories?). Just don’t leave it on all night–your camping neighbors will not love you.

DIY Stabilizer Hack ($30)Joshua’s Pick #3: Instead of being a piece of gear you can purchase, Joshua is bringing up a DIY solution to a problem we all have: stabilizers. He has tried many of the market items, and he prefers his DIY setup. Check out his directions here.

When propped properly in place, this will give your RV more stability than many of the stabilizers you can buy. You don’t have to be very handy to tackle this project.

Sonos Move 2 ($350)Jeremy’s Pick #3: Now, let’s talk music. We know the Sonos Move 2 portable speaker comes at a premium price, so this might not be for everyone, but we hope something on this list is for you, even if this one isn’t. The most striking thing about the Sonos Move 2 is the sound quality. It will seriously impress you. Plus, Sonos has a reputation for quality, so this should last for years to come.

For the $350 price, you get a speaker, charging base, and detachable charging cable. You can get up to 24 hours of play on a single charge. It’s also water resistant. Skip using your RV’s crummy sound system, and grab a Sonos instead. You can easily carry it from your RV to your campfire and back again.

Micro-Aire EasyTouch RV Thermostat ($260)Joshua’s Pick #4: What makes a thermostat worth $260? The Micro-Aire EasyTouch RV Thermostat will show you. First, it can operate both the heating and A/C without you having to switch modes, which make it perfect for those shoulder-season camping trips where you might have cold nights and warm days.

The thermostat is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible, so you can operate it while you are away from the camper. This is especially helpful if you are camping with pets. You can set up alerts to get notified if the power goes out, which is critical if you have pets in an RV.

The Micro-Aire is easy to install and has a great system interface. While other temperature monitors exist for pets, they are limited because they only send you alerts, and you have no power to make any changes. The Micro-Aire gives you power from afar.

Wildsam Magazine Jeremy’s Pick #4: The Wildsam website was recently purchased by Good Sam, the folks formerly behind some of our favorite RV magazines. We are sad to see some of those familiar favorites fold, but we have already fallen in love with the new Wildsam magazine that’s come out.

The Wildsam magazine is not just for RVers; it is for travelers of all kinds. Grab a copy at your local bookstore to check it out.

To hear many more details about all of these items from Jeremy and Joshua Sheehan, click on the media player above. Or look for The RV Atlas wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (Prices Vary)Joshua’s Pick #5: A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is a must have for any RVer. Joshua is not loyal to any one brand, as there are several good ones that will absolutely get the job done, including TireMinder and TST. No matter which you choose, a good TPMS will monitor the air in your tires and alert you if problems occur.

Expect to pay a few hundred dollars for the system, depending on how many sensors you need and what features you want. This investment can pay off big time by helping prevent damage and accidents from blowouts and other tire problems.

Camco Rhino Extreme Sewer Hose Kit & Nesting Support Kit ($80/$56)Jeremy’s Pick #5: Obviously, a sewer hose system is an essential piece of gear. We’ve tried several, and our current favorite is the Camco Rhino Extreme Sewer Hose Kit (20-foot) paired with the Camco Rhino Nesting Support Kit. This sewer hose is extra tough, so you don’t have to worry about springing a leak. The nesting supports are a lot easier to use than the accordion-style supports and they are more durable.

Frameo Digital Photo Frame (Prices Vary)Joshua’s Pick #6: A digital photo frame makes for a fun way to take your memories on the road–or to relive those memories while at home. Frameo makes the software to add, share, and display digital photos, and you can find several companies that create various styles of frames, making it easy to find one that perfectly matches your decor and personality.

Don’t let your digital photos hide away on your devices! Get a digital frame.

Parks Project Peanuts x Parks Project Recycled Water Bottle and Sticker Pack ($40)Jeremy’s Pick #6: Who doesn’t love Snoopy? We sure do! Whether you are buying for your kids or yourself, check out the Parks Project Peanuts x Parks Project collaboration. You can get all kinds of outdoor gear and kid-friendly items with fun outdoors-themed Snoopy graphics.

We have the Recycled Water Bottle and Sticker Pack. It features a glow-in-the-dark Nalgene water bottle and several stickers. The line also includes clothes, blankets, hats, and more. Also, if Snoopy isn’t your style, be sure to check out their Smoky Bear and Woodsy Owl gear.

Digital Infrared ThermometerJoshua’s Pick #7: Like some of Joshua’s earlier recommendations, he’s not 100% loyal to a single brand more than he wants to emphasize the importance of having an infrared digital thermometer. He has had success with the Etekcity brand. Use this to check your wheels, hubs, and bearings while you stop for gas to make sure everything is operating as expected.

Maglite ML50LX with Rechargeable Battery & Mounting Bracket ($67)Jeremy’s Pick #7: We can’t have an RV Atlas gear guide without a flashlight. The Maglite ML50LX is a great update on the traditional Maglite that you might already know and love. It is 466 lumens of LED light. The run times are amazing. Plus, you can add a rechargeable battery and mounting bracket for the perfect setup.

Camco Steerable Wheel Kit for the Rhino Tote Tank ($87)Joshua’s Pick #8: If you’ve ever tried to navigate a campground with a full portable holding tank, then you’ll know why we love the Camco Steerable Wheel Kit for the Rhino Tote Tank. Use this to upgrade your 28- or 36-gallon tote with a steerable wheel (or buy a new tote tank with the steerable wheel). It makes the tank much so easy to maneuver!

Book: The Secret History of BigfootJeremy’s Pick #8: Are you a believer in Bigfoot? Whether or not you are, you may enjoy reading The Secret History of Bigfoot: Field Notes on a North American Monster by John O’Connor. This is not so much about Bigfoot as it is about the true believers who are determined to find proof of its existence, which makes for a fascinating read.

We have thoroughly enjoyed talking to Joshua Sheehan and picking his brain for his RV and camping gear recommendations! We hope you found some items to add to your shopping list as we all get pumped for the start of spring camping season.

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The latest guidebook in the bestselling Where Should We Camp Next? series is hitting bookstores on April 2nd, 2024. Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping has over 350 campground recommendations and it covers Budget Camping in all 50 states. This handy guidebook is chock full of great state park, country park, national park, Army Corps of Engineers, national forest, and budget-friendly mom and pop campground recommendations from across America!

Jeremy and Stephanie Puglisi’s latest book on budget camping is also packed with recommendations for free and low-cost outdoor activities, along with budget camping hacks, and budget camping gear. If you want to save money camping in 2024 and beyond then there is no better book for you than Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping!

To hear Jeremy and Stephanie share a sneak peek into the pages of Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts. To check out a sample chapter from the new budget camping book read on just below!

Budget Camping in Washington State Washington State is a majestic state for budget camping in every single way. Olympic National Park is packed with great camping options both inside the park, and in nearby national forest campgrounds. You could spend several months exploring the entire Olympic Peninsula and not come close to seeing all of its magical places–and that’s just one part of this beautiful state. There are also excellent state park campgrounds along both Washington’s rugged and windswept coastline–and in its wild and mountainous interior. There is also a lifetime of camping to be had in and around Washington’s Cascade Range–and another great national park to explore there. We also recommend putting Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier somewhere very close to the top of your bucket lists–both locations are epic and breathtaking and affordable to visit if you are camping on a budget.

Best in StateDeception Pass State Park (Oak Harbor, Washington) https://parks.wa.gov

RV and Tent Sites $

Deception State Park is located on Fidalgo and Whidbey Islands about 80 miles north of Seattle. Its proximity to that great city helps make it Washington’s most visited state park–and so do its cliffs, beaches, tide pools and sunsets. This park, which recently turned 100 years old, is packed with coastal hiking trails and there are numerous places to launch a boat or kayak along its shores. There are three camping locations within Deception Pass. Cherry Lake is the largest and most popular. There are about 230 sites there and about one third of them have hookups. Quarry Pond is a medium sized campground and Bowman Bay is very small and intimate. There are some really awesome concessions here that are worth checking out. Blue Otter Kayaks is located at Cranberry Lake and does a nice job with a variety of rentals and Campstuff Coffee operates out of a vintage camp trailer right by the camp loop entrance to Cranberry Lake. Fidalgo and Whidbey Island islands are connected by the iconic and immensely photographable Deception Pass bridge–so bring your camera when you go.

Cape Disappointment State Park (IIwaco, Washington) https://parks.wa.gov

(RV and Tent Sites, Cabins, Yurts, Vacation Houses $)

For another epic coastal camping option look no further than Cape Disappointment State Park on the Long Beach Peninsula. Here you will find secluded sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs near the edge of the sea, and lighthouses that are as pretty as a picture. Bring your hiking boots and a rain jacket because there are many trails to explore that wander through old growth forest or lead to views of the park’s lighthouses. There are over 200 sites here and fifty of them have full hook-ups. The best sites here are closest to the windswept beach. These sites do have some shade and protection from the rugged stretch of sand and sea just beyond the trees–but plan on windy conditions and don’t leave the RV awning out when unattended. You may want to leave your tent or RV at home anyway and rent one of Cape Dissapointment’s 14 family-friendly yurts. They are cozy, comfortable, and heated–and just steps away from the beach.

Salt Creek Recreation Area (Port Angeles, Washington) www.clallamcountywa.gov

RV and Tent Sites $. (Most bang for your buck badge)

The campground is situated on a bluff above the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the vast majority of the sites (half of which have hookups) have views of the sparkling water. Our friendly neighbors in Canada are located directly across the Strait. The location of this campground is stunning and dramatic in every way. The tide pools located just steps below the campsites will keep your kids occupied for hours as will the basketball and volleyball courts. Outdoor activities abound for thrill seekers and nature lovers. Whether you love hiking, biking, kayaking, bird-watching, or even surfing there is something for you on-property or nearby. Downtown Port Angeles is also close and filled with hip food, coffee, and shopping. Check the sidebar in this chapter for a few of our favorite picks in that super cool gateway town. If summertime on the Olympic Peninsula isn’t near wild heaven it’s pretty damn close.

Also GreatSeaquest State Park (Castle Rock, Washington) https://parks.wa.gov

RV and Tent Sites, Yurt $

Seaquest State Park is an excellent basecamp for visiting Mount St. Helens–which is one of the most epic destinations in the Pacific Northwest. There is actually a pedestrian tunnel that connects this deeply wooded state park with the Silver Lake Mount St. Helens visitor center—which is a must stop before heading up to the top. The park has close to 100 sites and about 30 of them have either partial or full hookups. There are also five yurts with bunk beds that would make a really fun option for an adventurous family on a budget.

Eightmile Campground in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest (Leavenworth, Washington) Recreation.gov

RV and Tent Sites $

Washington State is jam-packed with top notch National Forest campgrounds and choosing any single one of them as the best is dangerous work–if Eightmile Campground on Icicle Creek (near downtown Leavenworth) is not best in state–then it is certainly close. The campsites are private and are lovingly carved into the lush pine, fir, and maple trees around them and the creek is directly accessible from the campground. In the springtime that creek rushes by like a river and the area is filled with adventurous kayakers. There is no cell service here–so why not turn your phone off and slip into the mystic. The natural beauty of your surroundings at Eightmile will transform you if you let them.

Budget Camping Gear: Bodum Outdoor French Press

Coffee is important. Especially when you are camping in cool or wet weather in the Pacific Northwest. We love the Bodum Outdoor French Press for camping trips because it is made of plastic and it is completely shatterproof. That’s good news for RV owners and tent campers who haul their gear from campground to campground. It also makes a delicious cup of Java at an extremely budget-friendly price. It’s available at target.com for less than the price of two pounds of Starbucks coffee.

Six Great Campgrounds Inside Olympic National Park

• Kalaloch Campground is inside the park and right on the beach. Only a handful of the sites have ocean views–but you can hear the ocean roaring from each and every campsite.
• South Beach Campground is just three miles away from Kalaloch and makes for a great backup plan if that campground is full.
• Log Cabin RV and Campground has magnificent views of Lake Crescent. Full hookups are available and the sites can accommodate larger RV’s up to 35 feet.
• Fairholme Campground is near Lake Crescent and is a perennially popular option for tent campers and those with small RVs.
• Sol Duc Hot Springs RV & Campground is basically a parking lot with hookups in a terrific location right next to the trailhead that leads to Sol Duc Falls–which is one of the best waterfalls in the park.
• Hoh Rainforest Campground is located in one of the most unique places in any national park. The Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center is nearby and so are some incredible and very easy hikes.

Cheap Eats and Affordable Fun in Port Angeles, Washington

Camping at the stunningly beautiful Salt Creek Recreation Area near Olympic National Park? Then make sure you head into the hip gateway town of Port Angeles for cheap eats, affordable shopping, and family fun.

Start your day by getting coffee and a breakfast sandwich at the Great Northern Coffee Bar. Patrons love the unpretentious outdoorsy vibe and the coffee is served with love. Their Bennigan breakfast sandwich is pretty epic–it comes with two scrambled eggs, swiss cheese, sliced ham and mustard sauce on a toasted pretzel bun.

Head to the Port Angeles City Pier and visit the Feiro Marine LIfe Center. Admission is only a couple of bucks per person and you get to meet the local marine life (think hermit crabs, sea stars, and much more) from the Strait of Juan de Fuca in a very up close and personal setting. This is a terrific place for younger kids.

If you need any supplies or just want to pick up a budget-friendly souvenir then head over to Swain’s General Store–it’s been a downtown institution since 1957. This is a terrific place to grab a raincoat or sweatshirt if someone forgot one–and they also have a pretty epic selection of outdoor goods for camping, hiking, and fishing. So if you are heading into Olympic National Park but need some new gear first–this is the place to go.

The Burritos, Tacos, and Sandwiches at the Little Devil’s Lunchbox are legendary among the locals and the price is very good for such fresh and delicious food. The Beer Can Chicken Burrito and the Devil’s Park Sandwich were our favorites.

Catch a West Coast League ballgame right in downtown Port Angeles at Civic Field. This stadium has a beer garden and a kids play area–so everyone will leave happy after the last pitch is delivered. Port Angeles Lefties tickets are budget priced and we love their team merchandise. Grab a t-shirt or a hat and wrap up your PNW souvenir shopping right there are the ballpark.

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Schodack Island State Park Campground (located near Albany, NY) is a hidden gem in a state park system that is filled with them. On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we welcome Olivia Karis on to the show for the very first time to review this relatively unknown campground. She is a native New Yorker that loves camping in the state and knows the Albany area incredibly well.

On this week’s episode she gives us a terrific review of the campground and offers up tons of suggestions for activities, attractions, and food in the area around. To listen to Jeremy’s interview with Olivia, click on the media play above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Or read on just below for Olivia’s answers to all of our questions about Schodack Island State Park Campground and the area around it.

Q: Where is Schodack Island State Park Campground Located?

A: Schodack Island State Park Campground is located on the eastern shore of the Hudson River, about 15-20 minutes south of Albany. This area, known as the Capital Region, generally encompasses the cities of Albany, Schenectady, Troy, and Saratoga Springs as well as the surrounding suburbs. We have the Adirondack Mountains to the north, the Catskill Mountains to the south, and the Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts to the east. It’s a pretty ideal location with Montreal 3.5 hours north, NYC 2.5 hours south, and Boston/Cape Cod 3 hours east.

Q: Tell us a bit more about this state park…

A: The campground is located within Schodack Island State Park, which was opened in 2002 and is an approx 1,000 acre park with seven miles of shoreline along the Hudson River and the Schodack Creek. (The area occupied by the park used to be a series of islands but it became a continuous peninsula in the early 1900s when they were dredging the Hudson River to make a deep-water channel to Albany, and the sediment was deposited here.) The park is designated a state estuary, which is a place where freshwater mixes with saltwater, because this part of the Hudson River is tidal. (It is deeper than the body of water into which it flows, and as far north as Troy, the flow of the river changes direction with the tides.) The park also encompasses a bird conservation area that is home to bald eagles, cerulean warblers, and blue herons, which nest in the park’s cottonwood trees.

Q: Tell us a little bit more about the history of this campground?

A: It has a cool history because it was opened relatively recently, in 2016, and at that time it was the first new campground to be built in a New York State park in 35 years!

Q: What does the campground look like?

A: The campground is wooded, but it has unique vegetation for the northeast because it is at sea level, so you see cottonwood trees and vines which form a dense foliage.

Q: How big is Schodack Island State Park Campground?

A: There are two loops, Creekside and Riverside, with a total of 66 sites. The sites are generally spacious, level, and private, with a mix of sun and shade.

Q: Tell us more about the individual campsites…

A: There are 43 sites with 50-amp electric, and the remaining sites in the tenting area do not have any hookups (on Creekside). There is no water or sewer at any of the sites. (NYS park campgrounds tend to be pretty rustic.) Each loop does have a bathhouse with free showers and there are multiple water stations within the loops. The sites are a mix of back-in and pull-through.

Q: Where are your favorite sites at this campground?

A: At the southern end of the Riverside Loop, sites 22-24 are the closest to the playground (a short walk from there). Creekside Loop has a cute playground for very young children, centrally located near the bathhouse.

Q: What is the price range for sites here and how easy are they to book?

Sites are $15-19 per night for non-electric and $23-27 with electric, with an additional $5 per night surcharge for out-of-state residents. There is a $6 per car entrance fee to the park on weekends and holidays (May-October) — however, this does not apply to campers. Reservations are through Reserve America and sites can be booked up to 9 months in advance. Funny enough, the two camping loops have two different seasons. This year, the Riverside Loop is open May 3-October 13 while the Creekside Loop is open April 19-November 17. (This is because the Creekside bathrooms are heated and the Riverside bathrooms are not.)

Q: What kind of amenities can be found within Schodack Island State Park?

A: The park itself is open year round and includes 8 miles of multi-use trails. There are pavilions for rent as well as numerous activities available within the park including hunting, fishing, boating, geocaching, hiking, biking, playgrounds, and picnicking. In the winter they offer cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowshoeing, with ice skates and snowshoes available for rent.

Q: Are there options for food within Schodack Island State Park?

A: All summer long, the nearby Schodack Landing Firehouse puts on Firehouse Fridays under one of the park pavilions, so you can walk over from your campsite and enjoy burgers, dogs, sausage and peppers, chicken sandwiches, meatball subs and more. There are also vendors and live music.

Q: Are there any activities within the park?

A: In partnership with the public library down the road, the Castleton Public Library, there are sometimes events at the park during the summer like outdoor movie nights and story times. The park also puts on a fall festival in October and they do an event called Lights in Our Park at Christmas, where people decorate the campsites and win prizes.

Q: Any insider details that campers should know before booking?

A: Bring your boat — motorized boats are permitted on the Hudson and there is a kayak launch on the creek as well. You do need to be aware of the tides. The creek turns into mud flats at low tide, and tidal changes in the river can make navigating more challenging so be aware. The park information booth can help you with this. Be aware of ticks, and hunters during hunting season (end of camping season). There have been a few bear sightings. There is a highway bridge nearby that crosses over the Hudson so you will be able to hear some distant, steady traffic — it’s not dead silent here. On the plus side, you can see some incredibly huge cargo ships going by on the river from time to time, which is fun for the kids.

Q: What could be improved at Schodack Island State Park Campground?

A: As long as you understand that you are in a NYS park and the hookups are minimal, there really isn’t anything lacking!

Q: What is the best time of year to visit?

A: Spring, summer, and fall are all wonderful times to visit, but the northeast is especially well known as a fall destination and the camping is wonderful that time of year — warm days for hiking and exploring, cool nights for campfires.

Q: What are some of the best things to do in the area?

A: The immediate area surrounding the park is rural. There is a library up the road in the village of Castleton, which has free Wi-Fi if you need it and a regular schedule of activities — good for kids on a rainy day. Castleton also has a couple of restaurants and a farmer’s market on Wednesday afternoons in the summer. About 20 minutes away is Golden Harvest Farms, a great choice in the fall for apple picking, cider donuts, pies, etc.

Q: How about hiking or natural activities?

A: The Empire State Trail is a recently completed 750-mile trail for biking and walking across New York State. The section in this area is called the Albany-Hudson Electric Trail and there are parking areas for the trail within 15-20 minutes from the campground.

A bit further out is John Boyd Thacher State Park, about a 40-minute drive from the campground, which is an incredible spot for hiking and beautiful views. It is situated on the Helderberg Escarpment, which is a series of limestone cliffs that are one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. There are panoramic views of the Hudson Valley, the Adirondack Mountains, and the Green Mountains of Vermont. A highlight is the Indian Ladder Trail which has waterfalls, caves, and you can even find fossils right on the trail. There are staircases to traverse so it definitely has some fun challenges. This trail is considered one of the best in the region and it’s great for both kids and adults. There is also a really fun aerial adventure course at this park called Wild Play which offers zip lines, high ropes, and a jump off of a 40-foot tower. This park also has a beautiful and educational visitor’s center, and even a campground.

Q: How about attractions near Schodack Island State Park Campground?

A: You can really get a taste of everything in this area because there is so much to do — not only all of the nature to explore nearby, but city life as well. In Albany you can take a tour of the USS Slater, a WWII destroyer escort. You can also visit the Empire State Museum, a free museum dedicated to the history and culture of New York State. (I am biased because my husband works there as the head of exhibit graphic design.) This is another good rainy-day destination for families and there are things for the kids to do, including a vintage carousel. The museum is part of the Empire State Plaza, which is the seat of New York State government and includes the State Capitol, where you can take a guided tour. (I recently took a haunted tour of the Capitol at Halloween!)

There are other museums in the downtown Albany area and shopping and dining along Albany’s Lark Street, which you can follow up with a walk through Washington Park. There is an outdoor theater in the park called the Park Playhouse that offers free musicals and plays during the summer, and there are other theaters in Albany where you can take in plays and concerts. Moving a little further north up the Hudson you have the city of Troy, about half an hour from the campground, which has been called the “Brooklyn of the north” and has some great shopping and dining options. They filmed the HBO show The Gilded Age in Troy, as well as the Scorsese film The Age of Innocence, and it has a very walkable downtown with beautiful architecture. (When we talk about food I will mention Troy’s farmer’s market.)

In under an hour you can make it to Saratoga Springs, the location of the famous Saratoga Race Course, America’s oldest sports venue, where you can see horse racing 6 days a week in the summer. Saratoga also has the National Museum of Racing with its Racing Hall of Fame, Saratoga Performing Arts Center where you can see major touring acts, and you can even relax in the natural mineral springs from which the city takes its name at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa. It’s almost too much to mention at this point but the city of Hudson is half an hour to the south of the campground and that’s a whole world of incredible dining, shopping, galleries and antiquing, particularly on Warren Street.

Q: How about options for great food in the area?

A: Where to begin!! This is my favorite subject! Considering that over a million people live in the Capital Region, you are not going to be short on food options. Let me start with breweries, as I know RVers are often big on breweries! About 25 minutes east of the campground you will find S&S Farm Brewery. I have never been here but it’s really popular. It is a working farm and brewery open on Friday and Saturday nights, and they welcome families with kids, as they have a big outdoor area with a playground. They have food trucks and live music. There is also kind of a brewery district in north Albany with Druthers, Fort Orange, and Fidens Breweries, among others, in that area. For breakfast, Schodack Diner and Skyline Diner are both solid nearby options, typical diner fare.

The Crisp Cannoli does excellent sandwiches and baked goods. If you are in this area on a Saturday morning, you have to get to the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market, which is a gigantic farmers market in this area, open year round (it moves indoors for winter) — tons of farm fresh produce as well as baked goods, cheeses, specialty coffee, hot food, crafts, plenty to see and do. Speaking of coffee, Gipfel Coffee is my favorite and it’s located inside a very cute shop called Sand Lake Merchant. Alias Coffee, Jacob Alejandro, and Stacks Espresso Bar each have a couple of locations in this area and are very good.

For lunch and dinner, I am a big fan of Ala Shanghai just north of Albany for their delicious soup dumplings, Ted’s Fish Fry which has multiple locations in this area, DeFazio’s Pizza in Troy which is arguably the best pizza around, Dinosaur BBQ in Troy, Indian Flame in Wynantskill for their excellent Indian buffet, and head to Lickety Split in East Greenbush or Kurver Kreme in Albany for great ice cream. This is barely scratching the surface!

Correspondent Bio: Olivia Karis lives with her husband Ben and their 12-year-old son, 9-year-old daughter, and two dogs in the Albany, New York area. She grew up as a summer camp kid but never went camping until adulthood, when her family was invited to try out a pop-up camper alongside some friends. It was on that very first camping trip that their then-toddler daughter took her first steps, and from then on, Olivia and Ben were hooked.

Olivia has been a dedicated RV Atlas listener since 2016 and after absorbing all she could from the podcast, she bought her first camper, a vintage 1963 Shasta Astrodome named Daisy. Daisy certainly turned heads but after a few years it was time for something more practical with modern amenities. Still loving the vintage look, Olivia and Ben then purchased a 2020 Riverside Retro 190BH named Zelda, which is still part of the family today.

The post Campground Review: Schodack Island State Park Campground in NY appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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On this week’s Q+A episode of The RV Atlas podcast Jeremy and Stephanie are back answering questions from the RV Atlas group on facebook. First they take a deep dive into dog-friendly RV destinations on the east coast. Then they discuss the pros and cons of propane refrigerators vs electric refrigerators. They wrap up the episode by talking about options for upgrading your RV mattress–from budget to bougie. Along the way they share responses from group members who also weighed in on the questions above!

Dog-Friendly RV DestinationsCourtney Runs asked…

Hi! Until Jeremy and Stephanie release Where Should Dogs Camp Next, anyone have recommendations on East Coast/Mid-Atlantic/ish campgrounds that are really dog-friendly? As in, trails, dog-friendly beaches, nice dog parks, etc.? Thank you!

We did an article on this for Go RVing!! Click below for 8 great dog-friendly campgrounds.

https://www.gorving.com/tips-inspiration/trip-planning/rving-dogs-8-campgrounds-awesome-puppy-parks

Connie Welch responded…

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are dog-friendly RV destinations. The town is very dog friendly and there are many trails in the park where leashed dogs are allowed. We had a great time even with the foggy rainy weather.

Angela Fasnacht responded…

Kiptopeke State Park in Cape Charles VA has it’s own dog beach. We love that area. 4 Paws Kingdom in NC isanother dog friendly campground.

Ted Moore responded….

Not an answer to your question, but if you ever get to the Midwest, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where I volunteer, is one of the few NPS units that allows dogs on any trail. Just keep them leashed and pick up after them and you’ll be welcome on all 200+ miles of trails. Maybe SYOTT someday

Gretchen Holcombe responded…

Maybe too far south, but Jekyll Island, GA is very dog friendly…dogs are allowed on all the beaches year round except for a couple of stretches where shorebirds nest.

Brigitte Ardea responded…

So exciting to hear about this book! Next year I’ll be traveling with 2 L dogs, and this will be so helpful to get me started.

Jeremy responded…

Sorry Brigitte–this is a great idea for a book. But we are not currently working on it–maybe someday soon!

Erik Anderson responded…

Courtney, here a few East Coast parks we’ve liked staying at on our full-time travels with our Hershey Pup :

Cape Henlopen State Park, DE

Asseteague Island State Park, MD

First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach, VA

Huntington Beach State Park, Murrells Inlet, SC

James Island County Park, Charleston, SC

Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah, GA

Hanna Park, Jacksonville, FL

Also, do you guys use the “BringFido” app? Such a great tool for doing pup-friendly places, restaurants, and events!

There are so many great dog-friendly RV destinations on the east coast!

Propane Vs. Electric FridgesJessa Dittberner asked….

Back with another question! On our hunt for a new RV and finding that there is apparently a push to only electric refrigerators, we boondock occasionally and the propane fridge has been amazing. Does anyone boondock frequently and use only solar to keep their fridge going? Any info on your panels and light requirements for them would be great. Thanks again!

Jeremy answered…

This may not be a popular answer—but an electric fridge will drain the heck out of your batteries when boondocking. We have had them on our last two RVs. I just shut the fridge down at this point and bring coolers when boondocking. You will need a fair amount of solar and battery power to keep a fridge going while boondocking.

Bill Tozzo responded…

Agree with Jeremy. When the 12v fridges came out, they were all the rage. But folks are finding they kill batteries, especially in the heat.

Gretchen Holcombe responded…

yep. I didn’t realize ours was electric only until we got it. We have just the one battery and a tiny solar panel, and we can only make it one night boondocking–mostly because of the fridge.

Erik Anderson responded…

Great question, Jessa. Like you, Jeanne and I do a lot of boondocking and dry-camping. We have absolutely loved our dual AC/propane, RV fridge for off-grid!

The answer for us was 720 watts of solar on the roof combined with three BB lithium house batteries. With that midsize set up, we easily handled 65 days straight in Arizona Desert…without needing the generator once!.

We don’t like the thought that we wouldn’t be able to replace our current RV fridge with another one that couldn’t utilize propane

Rob Groves responded…

I have a propane refrigerator but the electric control panel will still drain the battery. I decided to buy a 200 watt Renogy solar suitcase to keep my battery charged while boondocking. Game changer!

Gerry Zagorski responded…

You’d likely need at least 500 watts of solar panels and 300 amp hours of batteries to be on the safe side and even then you also want to bring a generator in case there isn’t enough sun. They do make DC fridges that are a bit more efficient so that might be a better option than a regular electric only residential fridge.

RV Mattress UpgradesDebbie Nolan Groeneveld asked…

My husband and I are planning to be full time RVers. Can someone recommend a good mattress?

Guy Fredrick responded….

Mattresses are really subjective… And, so are budgets. Most of the “content providers” are hawking Brooklyn Bedding RV Mattress, but they get them for free to review. They are great but spendy at above $800 a pop. We use a Zinus Green Tea gel foam 8 inch in our trailer and we have slept very well on it for three seasons. It is under $200 depending on size, and they have all the RV sizes (Amazon or check Home Depot). Others like Purple are not recommended for the temperature extremes found in an RV (I asked), so be careful.

Ellen Rehm Rimkus responded…

Brooklyn Bedding RV mattress is so comfy!

Jeannine Payne responded…

We have a 10 inch Zinus mattress, it has been very good. My husband is 6ft 5in and I am a large woman. We both sleep very good on it. We ordered from Amazon. It was easy to install. There are a lot of conversations about mattresses on this page. Do a search and read some of them

The post Dog-Friendly RV Destinations, Propane Vs. Electric Fridges, Mattress Upgrades (RV Atlas Q+A) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Oliver Travel Trailers has an excellent reputation for quality and craftsmanship among RV technicians and RV aficionados across the United States and Canada. We have heard several of our most trusted sources in the RV industry describe them as “the best made travel trailers in America.” Many Oliver owners are also evangelists for the brand and they do quite a bit of organic word-of-mouth marketing that speaks volumes about the overall quality of the product. This quality does come at a higher price point (over 100K depending on options) but each Oliver is built to last for generations and many owners speak of their trailer as a family heirloom–and not just an RV.

Oliver Travel Trailers are “manufactured by Oliver Fiberglass Products Company in Hohenwald, Tennessee since 2008” and they are an independent and family-owned company that operates far from the RV Capitol of the World in Elkhart, Indiana. To learn more about the company and its history and culture–check out their “brand story” video just below.

This week on the RV Atlas podcast we are pleased to welcome Aaron Wolters on to the show. Aaron is a passionate outdoorsmen and he is also the Digital Media Manager at Oliver. On this podcast episode Aaron and Jeremy discuss the history of Oliver Travel Trailers and also talk about what makes the Oliver different in terms of craftsmanship and construction. Then Aaron dives into a super informative discussion on the Legacy Elite and Legacy Elite II lines and tells us everything we need to know about the standards and options available for both.

To listen to our interview with Aaron Wolters from Oliver Travel Trailers please click on the media player above or subscribe to the The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows.

To find out more about Oliver Travel Trailers and the Legacy Elite and Legacy Elite II–please keep reading just below.

An Overview of Oliver’s Legacy EliteThe Oliver Legacy Elite clocks in at 18’5″ in length and has a GVWR of 5000 pounds and comes in one floorplan. There is a dinette at the rear of the coach that can be easily converted into a bed–or can be permanently set up as a bed if you don’t want to switch back and forth every night. The middle of the coach has a two-person dinette on one side (which can be converted to a single bed) and a compact kitchen with refrigerator on the other side. The front of the coach has a fairly spacious wet bath and a closet for storage. The quality of the craftsmanship is apparent on every inch of the Legacy Elite and the “engineered double-shelled fiberglass composite hull” is incredibly impressive to say the least.

Each Oliver Legacy Elite comes packed with standard features. To find out more about what comes standard please click here.

You can also upgrade to the Legacy Elite Premium Package or the Platinum Package. Please click here to find out more about both.

An Overview of Oliver’s Legacy Elite IIOliver’s Legacy Elite II series has two different floorplan options that are both popular among Oliver owners. According to Oliver’s website, The Standard Plan “features a spacious rear table area that comfortably accommodates up to 5 people and easily converts into a bed.” While The Twin Bed Plan “offers the convenience of two rear beds, equipped with a nightstand and an extra storage drawer.” We are particularly fond of the twin bed floorplan and could truly envision ourselves owning one someday in the future. The middle of the coach features a two-person dinette on one side (which can be converted into a bed) and an attractive kitchen on the other side. The front of the coach, much like the Legacy Elite, features a wet bath and a closet. Both floorplans clock in at 23′ 6″ in length and a dry weight of 4,900 pounds. The overarching build quality and materials used are the same as the Legacy Elite.

Each Oliver Legacy Elite II comes packed with standard features. To find out more about what comes standard please click here.

You can also upgrade to the Legacy Elite II Premium Package or the Platinum Package. Please click here to find out more about both.

Huge thanks to Aaron Wolters for joining us on the RV Atlas podcast! To learn more about Oliver Travel Trailers please click here!

The post Say Hello To Oliver Travel Trailers: An Overview of Legacy Elite and Legacy Elite II appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Casita Dean May and Jeremy are back with the second episode in their “24 Tiny Trailers We Love in 2024” series! To listen to the first episode in the series (or to read the show notes) please click here. They each picked 6 tiny trailers in the last episode and each have six more picks to share in part 2. Their new batch of selections include more teardrops like the Vistabule and The Campinawe, but also several conventional RVs by the likes of Grand Design, Winnebago, R-Pod, and Rockwood. There are also some very unique picks from independent companies like Taylor Coach and Type 2 Campers. Overall, between the two episodes there are a rich variety of picks that showcase the breadth and variety of tiny trailers that are available to consumers in 2024. To listen to Jeremy and Dean discuss their favorite tiny trailers please click on the media player above–or subscribe to the RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows. Without further ado–here are 12 more great picks from Jeremy and Dean. We hope you take a few minutes to check out each one and follow the links to the manufacturer’s websites to find out even more about each unit.

Casita Dean May’s PicksGrand Design Imagine AIM 15RB (MSRP $32,333) The Grand Design Imagine AIM 15RB has an amazing kitchen and a spacious bathroom for a coach that clocks in at under 20 feet. That is thanks in part to the Murphy Bed–which may or may not be deal breaker for some campers. If you don’t mind converting the couch into a bed every night this tiny trailer really does have it all. Or at least as much as you can get in a smaller rig!

Lance 1475 Travel Trailer ($40,000 to $67,000) The Lance 1475 is an interesting alternative to the Grand Design AIM that is featured just above. Instead of a Murphy Bed you get a permanent East/West bed–and instead of a small dinette you can choose between a sofa or two cozy chairs. Lance has a great reputation for quality and this looks like a great option for a solo traveller or a couple who can keep things simple on the road.

Type 2 Campers T2.3 (Starting at $29,950) This VW Van inspired trailer has a classic look and vibe that will turn heads at the campground. It is also incredibly lightweight and can be towed by a wide variety of vehicles–including EVs. Choose from five body colors (including Mouse Grey and Dove Blue) and one of three floorplan variations. The roof pops up for plenty of headroom and the seating area converts into a comfortable bed. This camper may be cute–but its built with high quality materials and aircraft construction methods.

Campinawe Supersized Teardrops ($28,000 to $33,000) The Campinawe has some of the most impressive storage we have ever seen in a teardrop style travel trailer–and the mudroom with additional seating atop a Yeti cooler is the cat’s meow. This is really a teardrop plus, or a teardrop on steroids–and it would make a great pick for a solo traveller or a couple that wants a tiny rig–but rolls with lots of outdoor gear. We could picture something like this in the RV Atlas driveway some day. For real–we are in awe!

Oliver Legacy Elite 1 ($85,000 to $102,000) For Casita Dean May– the Oliver Legacy Elite 1 is “drop the mic” best in show picks when it comes to tiny trailers under 20 feet. The build quality on an Oliver is second-to-none–and it has the price tag to go along with it. The doubled-hulled fiberglass shell and aircraft grade aluminum frame chassis on the Oliver Legacy Elite 1 are pretty much bullet proof. If you want a camper that will last for decades and become a family heirloom–then save your money and take a good look at Oliver.

Taylor Coach ($32,000 to $36,000) Can’t find the exact tiny trailer floorplan that you are looking for no matter where you look? Then let Brad Taylor from Taylor Coach build you the custom RV of your dreams–and when we say custom–we really mean CUSTOM! Casita Dean May thinks that purchasing a Taylor Coach is as close as you can come to purchasing an RV from family. This is a company that makes handcrafted products that are built to last for decades. If you don’t believe us just seek out one of their owners–many of which still have rigs in use that were built 20-years ago!

Jeremy’s PicksVistabule Teardrop Trailers (Starting at $23,995) Is a Vistabule Teardrop Trailer an RV–or is it a work of art? Clearly it serves as both at once–with its perfect combination of form and function, and practicality and grace. The interior sleeping area is convertible into the best seating area we have seen in a teardrop–and the storage is also among the best in class. The rear kitchen galley is highly customizable and it looks like it was built by master craftsmen—because it was!

Rockwood OTG Pop Up Campers (R16OTG and R19OTG)($6,200 to $9,000) Rockwood has released a series of entry-level pop up campers known as the “Off the Ground” or “OTG” series. These are NO FRILLS pop up campers for 6-8k with few to no features. No furnace. No AC. No fridge. Hand cranked roof. These stripped down pop up campers are like something straight out of the 1960’s. We think it’s a brilliant idea. We also think the RV industry needs more affordable entry level products to rebuild the bridge to tent campers. They are plenty of them out there that literally may want to buy a new RV to get OFF THE GROUND. These two floorpans will definitely be a major upgrade from your Coleman tent!

Winnebago Hike 100 H1316TB ($25,000 to $50,000) The Winnebago Hike 100 H1316TB is a very compact and practical trailer with a very unwieldy name. This is a baby toy hauler with a rear cargo door and plenty of interior room for gear items like bikes, kayaks, surfboards, and more. There is a couch on either side of the rear section of the Hike and a bunk bed above one of them. The bottom couches can be turned into a spacious bed–and there is a compact wet bath and an even more compact kitchen. This would be a great trailer for campers who love to bring adventure gear–but keep everything else on the minimalist side.

Barefoot Travel Trailer by nuCamp If you are a camper that cares about aesthetics and wants a tiny trailer that is gorgeous on the inside and out–then look no further than the retro-chic Barefoot by nuCamp. Every inch of this trailer is thoughtfully designed and attractive to the eye and to the senses. Glampers will delight inside the posh and cozy interior and love all of the thoughtful and practical storage compartments. This tiny trailer is also big on natural light and provides its owners with splendid views of the natural world around them.

Forest River R-Pod 153C ($20,000 to $28,000) The Forest River R-Pod 153C is quirky from back to front. The quirkiness starts with the rear entrance and ends with an unusual Murphy Bed setup at the front of the coach. In-between those two things is everything you will need to be comfortable on the road–including a practical kitchenette and a comfortable sofa on the camp side. We know so many R-Pod owners that love their rigs–and this one has us falling in love with R-Pod too. We would love to test this one out on a quick weekend trip without the kids.

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We are back with another Q+A episode of The RV Atlas podcast. On this week’s show we tackle questions about the following three topics from the RV Atlas group on Facebook:

1. Is a 37′ 6″ rig a good choice for someone who wants to camp in national and state parks?
2. What are the best family friendly activities in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee?
3. Should an RV Atlas group member dewinterize before heading to Florida? Or when they get there?

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie answer these questions and share answers from the group–click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

RV Lengths in NPS CampgroundsKelly Harper wrote in to the RV Atlas group on Facebook and asked….

“Is 37’6″ too big to park at state parks and national parks? That’s where we plan to do most of our camping.”

Jeremy Puglisi answered…

I think 37’6” is gonna be really tough for getting into most National Park campgrounds. The vast majority of them were built in 40s, 50s and 60s when RVs (generally speaking) were much much smaller. As for state parks—that’s going to vary widely and also depend on when the campgrounds were built.

Craig Dashner answered…

In state and national parks, the longer you are, the fewer options you will have, and there will be more competition for those fewer sites. Camping is a game of give and take. The benefits of a longer camper cost you access. Good access costs you size of camper – you have to find your sweet spot between the two. We’ve always tried to stay on the shorter end of what we want in a camper to maximize the sites we can fit into.

Kristin Seals answered…

It depends. It can be hard to get into some campgrounds in National Parks because of road conditions. For example you cannot get into the Chisos Basin Campground in Big Bend National Park with more than a 24ft trailer (I might not have the exact measurement correct) due to a tight, narrow road with switchbacks. I have seen the same type of situation in several other NPs. However, you can usually find another campground outside the park in those instances….and sometimes even within the National Park. As far as state parks that will depend on the state and each park. We live in Texas and only 1 time in our 6 years of camping have we had trouble at a campsite with our 29ft TT, and that was more due to my error as a newbie RV camper. I booked a site that was much too small. Most of our state parks here in Texas are massive and have very accommodating RV spaces

Judy Tanner Taylor answered…

GA and surrounding states have state parks with larger sites. Some even have full hookups. Not all sites are that large, but some are. I am 38 ft (plus my tow bar hitch) and have stayed at GA, SC, AL state parks within the last year. I do usually have to make reservations early for weekends, especially at busy places like Myrtle Beach State Park.

Pigeon Forge Activities for FamiliesClay Johnson wrote in to the RV Atlas group on Facebook and asked things to do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee with kids…

“Hey guys,

This is such a great group! I thought I’d see if anyone had suggestions of things to do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? We’ll be staying at the KOA so close to the action. Planning a five day stay for Spring Break. Of course there is the obvious Dollywood, but what else do you recommend for a family with younger kiddos?

Thanks in advance, and happy motoring!”

Jeremy and Stephanie responded…

There are so many things to do in and around Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. First and most importantly–get yourself into Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some scenic drives and amazing hikes. Drive the Cades Cove loop and hike to Abrams Falls. Also make sure to drive up to Clingman’s Dome and hike up to the dome itself.

Back in town we love Dollywood, pizza at the Mellow Mushroom, and shopping for camping gear at the Lodge Factory store and REI!

Liz Davenport Pollock responded…

“Depending on how young your kiddos are we highly recommend Magiquest – it is awesome!!

https://maps.app.goo.gl/EmryCj6j7hCV2bNz8?g_st=ic

And depending on age, the Titanic Museum!

https://maps.app.goo.gl/XeWVHPSNUZLtnM3b9?g_st=ic “

Renee’ Foltz Herin responded…

Anakesta hands down! Just go for the views and the chandola ride unfortunately it rained most of the time we were there so we ended up doing a lot of touristy indoor things but the indoor snow tubing and ripleys museum were a lot of fun. There’s a ton to do with shops and walking in Gaitlinburg. We also did the Hatfield and McCoy dinner show. The show was amazing but the food was just ok.

Amy Borger Crouse responded…

The Apple Barn in Gatlinburg is Amazing. Great food and fun to visit. Hillbilly golf and check out a show. We did Dixie Stampede . We spent the rest of our time exploring trails and overlooks in the national park including clings and dome. We also enjoyed the Log cabin pancake house

Elisa Reule Hartung responded…

Top Contributor

Not going to Smokey Mountain National Park would be a crime. It’s beautiful and they have several shorter hikes that you can do with younger kids. We also enjoyed The Stampede, Hillbilly Golf (in Gatlinburg) and ice cream at several small ice cream places.

Clingmans Dome—-Cades Cove—Abrams Falls Hike—Alum Cave hike—we did lots of great hikes with little kids!!!!

Eric Adkins responded…

Cades Cove and Clingmans in the national park. We loved Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show. Kids will enjoy the Wonder House (the upside down mansion). Hillbilly Golf has been a family tradition since before I was born. The Island has a small rides amusement park (think county fair) that you can get a 48 hour pass for, we spend two days there, they also have shops and food. If you are into knives then Smokey Mountain Knife Works. Ober Mountain or Ober Gatlinburg (whichever they call it these days) was fun but I don’t know when they switch from snow to summer (we did summer/fall). We also like Five Oaks Stables and Ziplines. And the KOA has a heated lazy river and a nice playground.

Dewinterizing to Drive to FloridaLisa Moxey-Swan wrote in to the RV Atlas group on Facebook and asked…

“LOOKING FOR ADVICE PLEASE”

“Our camper is winterized with pink stuff. We’re taking it to Florida next Friday. It’s been unseasonably warm here so we were hoping to de-winterize it before we leave, however, the forecast is calling for temps of 27 and 24 the 2 nights before we depart. We will be driving directly to our camp site I. Florida where we do not have sewer (just a dump station). Would our best plan be to stop at a truck stop along the way and de-winterize there? I’m hesitant to tie up the campground dump station for that as soon as we get there.

Thanks for any advice!!”

Jeremy Puglisi responded…

Why not dewitnerize at home and get all of the pink stuff out and flush out system —then blow out lines with compressed air after doing so. Then just keep heat on low at night until you leave. I think that is what I would do if I was in that situation. Then when you show up at the campground you can plug into water and get camping!

Steve Kocher responded…

“Don’t worry about tying up the dump station at the campground. The busiest time will be towards check-out time. If you’re getting there in the afternoon you’ll be fine. Safe travels!”

Rick Simmons responded…

Except that you would need fresh water on board with which to flush the system, since the water at the dump station is non-potable.

Lisa Moxey-Swan responded…

“Rick Simmons ahh, thanks! Glad you thought of that for me.”

The post RV Lengths in NPS Campgrounds, Pigeon Forge Activities, Dewinterizing (RV Atlas Q+A) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Spacious Skies Campgrounds burst onto the scene three years ago when they opened their first campground in Alfred, Maine. Since then they have grown into a robust and diverse collection of 15 campgrounds from Maine to Georgia. Their brand may only be three years old–but they have made quite the impression on campers and industry insiders since opening that first campground in March of 2021.

All of their campgrounds are geographically unique–but there are common factors that unify all of them into a cohesive collection. Their 15 campgrounds are all situated in naturally pretty locations and offer a back-back-basics camping experience at a budget-friendly price.

But while the emphasis may be on a classic camping experience–there are lots of creature comforts like pools, playgrounds, well-stocked camp stores, and full hook up sites. Each Spacious Skies Campground also offers tenting sites and there is a mix of cabins, yurts, and comfortable lodging (and glamping!) options spread throughout their system.

No matter how you like to camp–Spacious Skies Campgrounds has something great for you. They welcome all campers from every type of background to join them for a great camping experience filled with fun and warm hospitality.

Here is a brief overview of the 15 campgrounds in the Spacious Skies Campgrounds collection. For more information about each campground please click on the links in the descriptions. We hope to see you at a Spacious Skies Campground this year and in the years ahead. This is just the beginning for this welcome addition to the world of American camping!

The RV Atlas podcast is sponsored by Spacious Skies Campgrounds. Our thoughts and opinions are always our own.

Spacious Skies Campgrounds in New EnglandSpacious Skies Balsam Woods (Abbot, Maine)Spacious Skies Balsam Woods is located in a stunning and peaceful region of Maine just 30 minutes south of Moosehead Lake. They offer full hook up sites (both wooded and open) with 30 and 50 amp hookups. Tent camping is a great option here–and there are deluxe and rustic cabins as well. This campground is great for stargazing and also has direct access to excellent ATV trails. Kids will also enjoy the pool, playground, jumping pillow, and gem mining.

Spacious Skies Walnut Grove (Alfred, Maine)This is where it all started for Spacious Skies Campgrounds. Their very first campground is located in southern Maine just 30 minutes from Wells Beach. The sites here can accommodate anything from pop up campers to big rigs–and tent campers are welcome as well. Retro RV rentals and rustic cabins are also available for those without their own rigs. The campground here is well-stocked with merch and goodies and there is a pool and brand new playground for the kids.

Spacious Skies French Pond (Henniker, NH)Spacious Skies French Pond is a deeply wooded campground nestled along the edge of French Pond in southern New Hampshire. The campsites here can accommodate everything from tent campers to those in large motorhomes and fifth wheels. Retro RV rentals and the “Lily Pad Cottage” are also available. Spend your days fishing at the lake or kayaking and spend your nights around the campfire surrounded by fragrant trees. This is Granite State camping at its coziest and most comfortable!

Spacious Skies Seven Maples (Hancock, NH)Spacious Skies Seven Maples is surrounded by beautiful country for hiking, biking, fishing, and so much more. It is also located just minutes away from Keene, New Hampshire–which has great options for locally roasted coffee, craft beers, and farm-to-table food. Back at the campground you will enjoy the stocked trout fishing pond, kayak rentals, and a swim complex with waterslides for the kids. The RV and tent sites offer plenty of space for stretching your legs and they also offer cabins with bunk beds for larger families.

Spacious Skies Minuteman (Littleton, Massachusetts)Located near Walden Pond in a piney forest grove (and within striking distance of Boston) Spacious Skies Minuteman offers roomy RV and Tent sites and rustic one and two room cabins. Spend the day in the city and catch a ballgame or visit historical sites and then come back and chill out at the campground and take a dip in the pool before settling in around the campfire for the night. The city will seem a world away as you relax at your site with family and friends.

Spacious Skies Campgrounds in NY and NJSpacious Skies Adirondack Peaks (North Hudson, NY)American camping as we know it was born in the Adirondacks and the entire region is packed with great camping options. If you are thinking of heading upstate then make sure to check out Spacious Skies Adirondack Peaks. Camping accommodations include riverfront site and delightful glamping yurts for couples and families (and much more.) You can take ambitious and epic hikes throughout the region, or you can hit the walking trails right around the campground. This is a great place to kick back and relax and smell the fragrant trees and listen to the river roll by. Does camping get more peaceful than this? We don’t think so!

Spacious Skies Woodland Hills (Austerlitz, NY)Spacious Skies Woodland Hills is only two hours north of New York City–but it feels like it is a world away from The Big Apple. This cute and cozy campground offers wooded and open sites for rigs of all sizes while also welcoming tent campers to join in on the fun. Cottage rentals and Retro RV Rentals are also available and the campground has branded merch and all of the basics you might need to make your trip complete. A new pool is opening here for the 2024 camping season.

Spacious Skies Country Oaks (Dorothy, NJ)This peaceful campground is located within striking distance of beautiful southern Jersey Shore beaches along with casinos and incredible dining in Atlantic City. Make sure to visit Bass Pro Shops and grab a sub at White House Subs while you are using Spacious Skies Country Oaks as your basecamp for the region. The RV sites here are shaded and rustic cabins and retro RV’s are also available. Campers love the delightful pool–so plan on taking a dip during your stay.

Spacious Skies Campgrounds in the SouthSpacious Skies Shenandoah Views (Luray, Virginia)Spacious Skies Shenandoah Views is one of the prettiest campgrounds we have ever visited. It is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and is just a short drive away from terrific hiking in Shenandoah National Park. If you don’t feel like hiking then just drive into the park for a scenic tour of Skyline Drive–one of the prettiest roads in the eastern half of the United States. Back at the campground you will enjoy spacious RV sites, cabin rentals, and glamping accommodations that will please the pickiest of campers. Golf cart rentals are available and there is a pool and playground for the kids to enjoy after a long day in the park.

Spacious Skies Sandy Run (Fayetteville, NC)Spacious Skies Sandy Run has a relaxing and quiet state park vibe–but has the amenities that so many RV owners crave when they go camping. Full hook up sites are available for any sized rig–and tent campers are also welcome. The pull through sites here are particularly great for larger rigs and they are easy to navigate. Spend time taking a leisurely stroll on this campground’s walking trails or wet a line at the catch and release pond. This is old school camping at its best. Simple and natural and beautiful.

Spacious Skies Hidden Creek (Marion, NC)When you camp at Spacious Skies Hidden Creek the Blue Ridge Mountain Range is within view and within striking distance for all kinds of outdoor adventures. The RV sites here absolutely beautiful and many have views of the mountains and lake. Cabins and primitive tent camping sites are also available. There are plenty of things for the kids to love here including a junior olympic swimming pool, and a playground and Gaga ball pit nestled right alongside the water.

Spacious Skies Bear Den (Spruce Pine, NC)The location of Spacious Skies Bear Den is nothing short of spectacular. It is nestled within the sparkling and magnificent Pisgah National Forest and is surrounded by hiking trails–some of which lead to waterfalls. The campground offers private and spacious RV and tent sites and they also offer a delightful mix of cabins that are well suited for families and small group retreats. Take a dip in the swimming lake after a long hike in Pisgah National Forest and then spend the rest of the day relaxing at your site and making memories with family and friends.

Spacious Skies Belle Ridge (Monterey, Tennessee)We have friends that live near Spacious Skies Belle Ridge and this is there go-to spot for a relaxing and adventurous getaway close to home. This campground is located in the Cumberland Plateau region of Tennessee and is surrounded by lovely views, hiking trails, waterfalls, caves, fishing holes, and so much more. The RV and tent sites are large and easy to navigate and they also offer a wide variety of cabin types and the “Bluff House” which sleeps up to 12 people.

Spacious Skies Peach Haven (Gaffney, SC)Located near Gaffney and Spartanburg in South Carolina Upcountry–this campground serves as a terrific basecamp for exploring the region–or for just kicking back and relaxing at your campsite. Kids love swimming and fishing here and and they also love the playground, mini golf course, and Gaga Ball pit. The RV Sites here are spacious and shaded and cabin rentals are also available.

Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks (Savannah, Georgia)Spacious Skies Savannah Oaks offers 24 peaceful acres just twenty minutes from downtown Savannah Georgia–and it is truly a perfect basecamp for those that want to explore that historic city. Amenities include a pool, a basketball court, and a brand new playground. Park your RV under Spanish moss and get ready to head into the city for amazing food, great coffee and beer, and lots of quirky shopping and historical site seeing.

The post An Epic Road Trip with Spacious Skies Campgrounds appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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On this week’s RV Atlas podcast Jeremy and Stephanie are tackling three questions from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook. We answer a question from Jessa Dittberner about whether she should get one of the Rockwood Roo Hybrids, along with a question from Mathew Falls about choosing a campground in Myrtle Beach. Then we wrap up the show by discussing why RVers buy portable tote tanks, and which sizes and models are the best.

Spring camping season is around the corner and we are itching to hit the open road and we know many of you are too. While many of us are waiting for spring we welcome you to join us around the digital campfire for another great Q+A episode of The RV Atlas.

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss the pros and cons of Rockwood Roo Hybrids, the best Myrtle Beach Campgrounds, and which portable tote tank is best–click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

Pros and Cons of Hybrid Travel TrailersJessa Dittberner wrote in to the RV Atlas group on facebook and asked…

We have a Springdale Mini and are looking for a possible change. I am really interested in the Rockwood Roo Hybrid. Curious if anyone has one or a similar hybrid and their thoughts? I am tired of feeling like I am in a closet when inside the camper. Hehe.

Jeremy and Stephanie explained why they love hybrids and pointed Jessa to some RV Atlas resources like this episode with Johann Schnell--who owns a Flagstaff Hybrid (same as a Rockwood Roo Hybrid) and loves it.

Hybrid Travel Trailers: Pros, Cons, and Tips from Johann Schnell

Megan Beller Sterett answered…

We love our Rockwood Roo! Ours is 23 feet with 3 tent beds and 1 slideout. We’re on a year-long camping trip with our 3 kids and I wanted to maximize space without having a massive rig, plus I really wanted to still preserve the closeness with nature that the tent beds allow. The Rockwood Roo Hybrid has delivered on both counts – it really feels very spacious inside for a 23 foot camper, and we love hearing the sounds of nature and being able to unzip all the bed windows to enjoy the breeze, etc. One obvious downside is that it’s pretty chilly in winter (though you can get the insulated covers for the tent beds), so something to consider depending on your usage. Overall we’re very happy with ours!

Nathan Rathmell answered…

We had two hybrids. The quad bunk was nice (aren’t made anymore) but we don’t miss setting up our bed on multiple stop trips. Or any really. it was nice on the right site in mild weather having the bed windows open with a view. Now we have a traditional quad bunk longer than I ever wanted to tow.

Where to Camp in Myrtle Beach?Mathew Falls wrote into the RV Atlas group on Facebook and asked…

We are headed down to Myrtle Beach during the last few days of March / first few days of April. The 3 spots listed below have come recommended. We’d love to know your thoughts through a vote. If you’ve ever stayed during that time frame we’d like to hear what amenities were available (since it’s still off season). The KOA is no longer an option. As much as we love KOAs, the information we received from them via email and phone was downright rude and unhelpful.

Jeremy and Stephanie talked at length about how much they loved the Myrtle Beach KOA in the past–and how they are both sad to hear that Matthew had a bad customer service experience there. They also discussed a bunch of their favorite Myrtle Beach Campgrounds–including what was formerly known as Carolina Pines, along with Lakewood, Ocean Lakes, Myrtle Beach State Park, and Huntington Beach State Park.

Stacy Kropf Johnson answered…

Kids? Mine love Carolina Pines but it’s not on the beach. There is also Yogi Bear Tabor City a little inland that is very popular. Both Lakewood and Ocean Lakes have indoor pools. The waterparks don’t open until more in April I think.

Ashley Johnson wrote in to the RV Atlas Group and answered….

My husband and I love Barefoot RV Resort the most. We do not have kids but they have a new kids water playground. The amenities near Barefoot are great! Restaurants, gym, grocery store, hardware store, dog groomer, mail salon, batting cage, ax throwing, putt putt, .5mi walk to beach, short walk or bike ride to barefoot landing shopping and theater. Also close to outlets. However, If you have kids and like direct beach, then Ocean Lakes is good. We have been there many times too. Too bad the water park won’t be open yet.

Which Portable Tote Tank Should I Get?Julie Carlson wrote in…

Any recommendations on portable waste tanks?

Jeremy and Stephanie recommended their 28 Gallon Rhino Tote Tank by Camco Outdoors--but also walked through when and where RV owners use tote tanks–and which size to get. The larger models can get heavy when full. Jeremy loves the built in ladder hook on the Rhino–which is great for transport and storage. Six other members of the group also recommended their Rhino Tote Tanks in various sizes. They come in 15, 21, 28, and 36 gallon models.

Craig Dashner responded…

Pick one that has a volume equal to the tank you want to empty (1 trip), or a little over half (2 trips to empty). I prefer the two wheel ones – smaller and easier to store/take up less storage space and am fine doing 2 trips when I need to.

Guy Frederick responded…

Also. bear in mind the weight of the tank. The “stuff” weighs a bit over 8 pounds per gallon, so a 40-gallon tank would be around 350 pounds with the weight of the cart itself included.

Erik Anderson responded…

Julie, we have a 21 gal Rhino tote. Easy to use, has always worked well. As others mention, they can get very heavy when full, so consider that when deciding on what size you get. We have a 44 gal holding tanks, so we’ll “dump” when we can do two trips with the tote.

Erik Wilson responded…

I picked up a Rhino tank from camping world on Black Friday for about half off. If you can wait they have decent sales.

Amy Barnette responded…

We bought a 28-gallon Camco Rhino. We’ve had no issues with it.

The post Rockwood Roo Hybrids, Myrtle Beach Campgrounds, Portable Tote Tanks (RV Atlas Q+A) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We love tiny trailers here at the RV Atlas–and we always have. This year we wanted to do a roundup of the best tiny trailers on the market right now and highlight their best features and options. There are so many great companies making smaller trailers in 2024 and many of those companies have loyal followings and terrific reputations for quality and innovation.

We invited our longtime friend and RV Atlas podcast correspondent Casita Dean May onto the show to help us round up the best and the brightest small rigs on the market today. This will be a two-part series on the podcast and right here on the blog. So buckle up buttercup–these are our first 12 picks, with 12 more to come. We love the variety of options on display here–and we know you will too. So without further ado let’s dive in to part one of our two part series.

To listen to Casita Dean May and Jeremy discuss the tiny trailers that they love the most click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows!

Casita Dean May’s Tiny Trailer PicksThe Aero Sellwood (Starting at $41,499)It would be easy to mistake the Aero Sellwood for a vintage “canned ham” trailer from the 1950’s or 1960’s. It passes the vintage vibe check with flying colors. But this trailer (which weighs under 3k pounds dry) is made in Oregon right now and is packed with modern features and gorgeous of-the-moment design touches. There is a model with a spacious kitchen and no wet bath (that does have a cassette toilet) and there is a model (pictured above) with a smaller kitchen and a comfortable and attractive wet bath. Casita Dean May loves the wet bath floorpan (which adds 3k to the price)–but Jeremy loved the model with the larger kitchen. Both of them are drop dead gorgeous and worth taking a look at if you want a retro trailer with a high-quality build.

Safari Condo Alto R1723 (Starting at $32,739)Safari Condo photos by Kirstin Burrows

The Safari Condo Alto R1723 is one of the most unique travel trailers we have ever laid eyes upon. The retractable electric roof creates an incredibly aerodynamic shape that is easy to tow when in travel mode–and when in camping mode, the stunning windows fill the trailer with natural light. These stunning windows forge a direct connection to the natural world and provide panoramic views of the campsite around the coach. The frame, walls, and floor are made of aluminum and the dry weight clocks in at under 2k pounds–making this towable by a wide variety of SUVs. The bed is up front, and a seating area is in the rear–allowing one camper to stay up and read while the other sleeps in comfort.A toilet and shower are available midship–but the top of the shower is enclosed by a curtain. Certainly not a deal breaker for us. Every inch of this trailer feels fresh and innovative. We would love to take one camping.

Taxa Cricket (Starting at $30,331)The Taxa Cricket doesn’t have much in common with with most RV’s–in fact we think of it as more of a camping machine or camping support system. Taxa calls the Cricket a “habitat” or an “adventure vehicle” and both of those work for us too. We love the open and airy feel created by the pop-up roof and we are also big fans of the front kitchen and its modular storage systems. A convertible dinette/bed is located in the back of the Cricket–with a rear cargo door that can be thrown open for fresh air–or for storing bikes and other gear for transport. The Cricket comes in a variety of ridiculously cool color options (Chocolate Chip Tropical Camo Wrap please!) and can be stored in a garage when not in use.

Nücamp Tab 400 (Prices Vary from 40K-55K)nüCamp makes beautiful RV’s with a reputation for style, comfort, and quality. They have a loyal following and many of their customers have owned 2 or 3 of their models. The Tab 400 can be purchased with or without a bunk–so it could work for a solo traveller, a couple, or a small family with young kids. We love the spacious wet bath and the surprisingly full-featured kitchen. This floorpan packs a lot into an elegant rig that clocks in at under 19 feet. The windows are also surprisingly large for a small coach and they fill the Tab 400 with natural light. For such a small rig the storage feels ample–and we could easily imagine taking this one for an extended road trip.

inTech Sol Dusk (Starting at $44,940)inTech is yet another independent manufacturer with a reputation for quality and style. The Sol Dusk has a striking exterior shape with a prominent front window that provides excellent views of the campsite. We also love the luxurious fit and finish of the interior–which seems to be inspired by the fit and finish of an Airstream–but at a much more user-friendly price point. The front lounge is surrounded by windows and looks like the perfect place to eat breakfast or read a book. The rear twin beds can be converted into a single full sized bed and the wet bath is surprisingly spacious. We might like more counter space in the kitchen area–but most will love its refined look and more than adequate storage. inTech makes beautiful RVs–and this is just one of many that we admire. See below for another!

Casita 17 Freedom Deluxe (Starting at $26,996)Casita Dean May is the proud owner of the Casita 17 Freedom Deluxe pictured above–and he still loves every inch of it after many years of use. This is a near perfect couples coach with a double bed and a set of two comfy swiveling chairs. The price point for this fiberglass egg camper is also quite reasonable–especially when stacked up against many of its more expensive fiberglass brothers and sisters. This adorable tiny trailer also weighs less than 2,500 pounds dry–so it can be towed by a wide variety of SUV’s.

Jeremy’s Tiny Trailer PicksRoc Trailers ALD09 (Starting at $16,999)According to the website for ROC Trailers the company is “honoring the history of teardrop campers” while their designs “improve on the past to create a more efficient and comfortable environment to inhabit and enjoy.” The DNA of the classic American teardrop camper may reside within each ROC Trailer–but their form and function are very much of-the-moment when it comes to modern amenities. Their lineup of rugged and adventurous teardrops also has a space-age look that we admire. Our favorite feature in the ALD09 is its elegant and practical rear kitchen–which would make any minimalist camp cook swoon. We would love to set up camp in an ALD09 and get cooking. How about you?

Encore RV ROG12RK (Starting at $22,000)Encore RV is a young company that is already developing a reputation for quality and innovation. Jeremy is currently obsessing over their ROG 12RK. It fits into a category that he likes to call the teardrop plus. The slightly larger teardrops that fit into this category have more than just a bed inside of them. Instead they often have a bed that can be converted into a low lying couch that is cozy and comfortable for reading or hanging out and watching a movie at night. The ROG 12RK has all of that and much more. It can be outfitted for serious off-road adventures and the rear kitchen is an absolute dream for those that love to cook outside. Add an optional rooftop tent to the model and you can sleep four at your favorite boondocking location–or your favorite state park or KOA for that matter.

Airstream Basecamp 16 (Starting at $46,900)Dreaming of owning a brand new Airstream but don’t have $100K plus to make that dream happen? Then you should definitely downsize your expectations and take a look at the Airstream Basecamp 16 and the Airstream Basecamp 20. We are former owners of the 16 and can vouch for its comfort, its beauty, and its well equipped features and amenities. The front kitchen and front windows are stunning, and the wet bath is comfortable and surprisingly spacious. The rear seating can be turned into a cozy bed and the rear door makes storing gear (like bikes and surfboards) easy peasy. We loved this little Airstream and one of us really regrets selling it:)

Taxa Mantis (Starting at $40,116)The Taxa Mantis is definitely a big brother to the Taxa Cricket–but it is also so much more. This trailer may have a quirky exterior look–but the interior is completely practical for adventurous campers with kids. There is a front couch that can be used as a bed (with a bunk bed right above it )and there is a convertible seating area in the rear that can be converted into a spacious sleeping area. Midships you will find a well-equipped kitchen and room for a cooler and other cool storage features. A cassette toilet and shower pan are also available for those that want that camping vibe with some extra creature comforts. The Taxa Mantis is every bit as weird and wonderful as the Cricket–and we love every inch of it.

inTech Flyer Discover (Starting at $28,000)The inTech Flyer Discover is only 18 feet long from bumper to ball–so it qualifies as a tiny trailer in our book. But this unorthodox toy hauler feels huge on the inside. This is because the bed (or beds) are tip out beds like the beds found in a hybrid travel trailer. They don’t take up any space on the inside of the coach. The front kitchen is stylish and practical–but there is no bath or shower here. You could easily bring a cassette toilet along for the ride–along with all of your favorite toys. The Flyer Discover is built for adventure and has a ton of flexible space on the interior that can be outfitted for just about any kind of road trip. We would love to take this one out on a surf trip to Cape Hatteras. We could bring the entire family (and the entire family quiver of surfboards) along for the ride if we did.

Aliner Evolution 15The Aliner Evolution 15 knocked our socks off when we first scoped it out at The Florida RV SuperShow in 2023. It is a hard walled “A-Frame” style camper that packs up small in road mode and opens up into a relatively spacious package at the campground or your favorite boondocking spot. We love the multiple seating options on either end (which can both be converted into beds) and the hidden shower and small but practical kitchenette with sink, stovetop, and refrigerator. The hidden cassette toilet also means no scrambling to the campground bathrooms (or the woods) for a midnight potty run. The look of the Evolution is rugged and it can be equipped for boondocking adventures. We would love to take one out on a roadtrip to somewhere far, far away. The Aliner Evolutions low profile when in road mode also means it will tow like a dream.

The post 24 Tiny Trailers That We Love in 2024 (Part 1) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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On this week’s RV Atlas Q+A podcast we discuss the following topics from the RV Atlas Group on Facebook:tips for things to do on an RV trip to Cape Hatteras, rules for your state sticker map (can they be transferred to a new RV?) and how many hours is too many hours to drive in an RV? Jeremy and Stephanie answer each question but we also share answers from the group!

State Sticker Map Rules for RVersThe Question from Nathan Wentworth:

“Okay gang–serious question! When you upgrade to a new or different RV–do you start over with your state sticker map… Since you haven’t camped in the new RV, do you get credit for camping in all of the states you visited with your previous RV?”

Stephanie Puglisi responded….

”It’s the experiences that count–the rig is just a really fun accessory”

Aaron Hall responded…

“No we consider it a camping map not an RV specific map. That is why we made ours magnetic so we can move it from RV to RV”

Hannah and Will Clay responded…

“I continued the state sticker map…but everyone has their own house rules!”

Shannon Lamb responded…

“Our map is in a picture frame–so it can go from camper to camper.”

Duane Bell responded…

“We will carry our state sticker map over to our next RV, although I didn’t count places I had camped as a kid or places we camped before we bought our rig. Our rule is also that we have to actually camp in the state to earn the sticker, not just drive thru or Walmart etc.

So far we have hit everything East of the Missippi. We had hoped to hit 49 states with our two youngest still at home, but with sports and jobs etc that is no longer realistic. Beth and I will have to finish off the rest ourselves.”

Erik Anderson responded…

If and when we get a new RV, we’ll “transfer” our U.S. and Canada state sticker map to the new rig. Like Stephanie Puglisi writes, we also feel it’s the experiences we’ve personally had and not RV-specific. But everyone has their own “rules of thumb” which is cool!

We’ve “stickered” 49 states and 6 Canada provinces, so we’ll want to continue enjoying seeing all those on a new rig! 😁

Mike Hoffman responded…

You have a box of ice cream sandwiches… You eat all of them…. Just because you get a new box doesn’t mean you didn’t eat all of the other ones…. It all counts as pounds under the belt… Miles during camping…

Ted Moore responded…

I looked it up in the Code of Federal Regulations: new trailer = reset on places visited. Which means I have to return to Glacier, Zion, Yellowstone, Shenandoah, Great Smoky Mountains, and Rocky Mountain.

Damn. What a burden.

Jeremy Puglisi responded…

The state sticker map definitely transfers over. I think you do have to spend the night and drive through. Even spending a night at Wal-Mart is okay.

How Much Time Driving on Travel Days?The Question from Steph Wagner:

What is your upper limit on miles per day between destinations? We are planning a longer trip with our 6 and 8-year-olds from Kansas to Disneyland.

Kerri Cox responded…

Our upper limit is 500-600 miles, but we aren’t traveling with younger kids. When our boys were younger, I added approximately 50% to whatever Google Maps estimated the drive would take. That rule of thumb covered the slower RV travel, stops for gas, meals, restroom breaks, and some leg stretching.

We had a successful road trip once where we paid our kids $1 an hour each to behave on the way. They got pretty competitive about keeping their cash!

Jason Richards responded…

…We try to maximize mileage on travel days to get more vacation out of the vacation. Upper limit for us is ~1,000 miles, 600 is good target and a pretty full day with a camper and kids.

Andrea Semanovich responded…

Do you have a towable or driveable? I think it makes a difference. We have a C Class and don’t have to take many breaks because the kids are teenagers and can use the restroom and get snacks without us having to stop. We only stop to get gas and switch drivers. With our crazy approach we do about 600-700 a day miles because each driver only has to do 300-350 miles each.

Jeremy Puglisi responded…

Our trip to Charleston that took us 16 hours! So many gas and potty stops! That was the longest I have ever towed in one day–and it was too long. But we were on a weeklong vacation and did not want to waste two days driving to Charleston and two days driving back. Still–I wouldn’t tow 16 hours in one day again. I don’t think so anyway.

An RV Trip to Cape Hatteras National SeashoreThe Question from Erik Anderson:

With Hershey Pup’s help, I got us a site for a week at Frisco Campground at Cape Hatteras National Seashore! We kept missing Cape Hatteras the past couple years, so we’re looking forward to it finally! 😁 We’ll be there in early Spring, so hopefully before the buggy season. 🦟 Who’s stayed on Cape Hatteras? Any suggestions or recommendations of what to do and where to explore? 😊

Ashley Moody responded…

The Outer Banks are one of our favorite beaches to slow down, get back to basics, and truly relax. Most of Hatteras is comprised of small beach villages and you won’t find any high rise resorts or cheap sportswear shops. Definitely visit the lighthouses that help make the Outer Banks famous. Take the ferry for a day trip to Ocracoke Island – you can take the drive on one year round, but in peak season there’s a passenger only ferry that drops you in the heart of the island. Rent a golf cart, explore the little shops, and grab a bite to eat (we really liked SmacNally’s). Definitely visit Waves Market and Deli and snag one of their delicious sandwiches. Oceana’s Bistro has killer fish tacos. If your vehicle is 4WD, get out on the beach and drive…take some fishing rods and a picnic lunch and make a day of it (but learn the ins and outs of driving on sand first). Get an early start one day and drive up to Corova to see the wild horses (another beach driving experience) or take a tour. There’s so much to love about the Outer Banks. You’re going to really enjoy it!

Jess Steck responded..

Take the short drive north to the orange blossom bakery. Incredible baked goods. Drooling just thinking of them!

Jeremy Puglisi responded…

Yasssssssssss to the Orange Blossom Bakery!

Larisa responded….

The Apple Uglies at the Orange Blossom Bakery are amazing!

Stephanie Puglisi responded…

Beautiful place to camp. Lots of good recommendations here already. Would just add the Wright brothers monument. And also, yes you are missing the bugs but be prepared for WIND.

Chris Phillips responded…

Do your yourselves a favor and keep an eye on NCDOT NC 12…

As in our first trip down there, I had no idea that the water would breach the road in some places, and make inpassable, Always good information to review before you head down the road. As they clear the road like it snow it’s quite an amazing feet, that they keep this place open and passable at some point of the year .

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Are you planning a solar eclipse RV trip? If you haven’t already made your camping plans for the 2024 eclipse, now’s the time! This rare phenomenon will be experienced across much of the U.S., with some major cities, parks, and travel destinations in the Path of Totality.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your solar eclipse RV trip:

Interested in renting an RV for a solar eclipse road trip? Use coupon code RVATLAS30 for $30 off a booking of $500 or more at RVshare.com.

Wasn’t there Recently an Eclipse?You might remember the recent 2017 eclipse, which was visible from Oregon to South Carolina. 215 million Americans watched it, and 88 million traveled to do so!

Interestingly enough, while the paths of the 2017 and 2024 eclipses are quite different, they cross near Carbondale, Illinois, which will have experienced a total eclipse both years.

Expectations are big for the upcoming 2024 eclipse! According to RVshare’s 2024 Travel Trend Report, 78% of people are planning to view the eclipse this coming April, and 53% plan to travel for the event. How about you?

When is the 2024 eclipse, and Where Will it be Seen?If you would like to plan an RV trip around this spectacular celestial event, here’s everything you need to know about when and where to see the 2024 total solar eclipse:

• The eclipse will happen April 8 during the middle of the day.
• 13 states stretching from Texas to Maine, plus parts of Mexico and Canada, will be in the Path of Totality.
• These states include: Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine
• Though the 13 states listed above are the best places for viewing the total solar eclipse, all of the US will experience some level of totality. The Pacific Northwest will have 20% coverage, while southern Florida will see 45%.
• Check out these Good Sam blog posts for more details: Where to Camp for the 2024 Solar Eclipse and 7 Things to Know When Camping for the 2024 Eclipse

To listen to Jeremy interview Kerri Cox from Travels with Birdy about planning a solar eclipse RV trip, please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

What is the Path of Totality?The Path of Totality is where the sun will be entirely eclipsed by the moon. In the U.S., this path is approximately 100 miles wide and over 2,000 miles long. Outside of this pathway, other locations will still experience the eclipse as a partial solar eclipsed, described in percentages, which reflect the percent of the sun that will be covered. Learn more about the Path of Totality:

• Being in the Path of Totality versus a partial eclipsed is described as literal “night and day difference.”
• Check out maps to see where the exact Path of Totality and partiality will fall, like one available from the Great American Eclipse website.
• If your region is in the path, you can also Google specific locations to find out the percentage of the eclipse and the exact timing, as well as the length.
• Within the path of totality, the total eclipse will range from around 90 seconds to over 4 minutes, depending on the location.

What Interesting Locations are in the Path of Totality?The Path of Totality is the most desirable spot for RV camping during the solar eclipse, and lucky for many travelers, the journey will cross over several fantastic travel destinations. You can make a long weekend of the trip! Here are a few popular destinations in the Path of Totality:

• Despite the long journey the eclipse is “taking” across the U.S., only two national parks are in the path set to experience a total solar eclipse: Arkansas’s Hot Springs NP and Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
• Additional NPS sites are in the Path of Totality, such as Missouri’s Ozark National Scenic Riverways and Arkansas’s Buffalo National River.
• Several large cities will be in the Path of Totality, including Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Syracuse, Rochester, and so many more!
• Popular RV travel destinations in the Path of Totality include: Niagara Falls, New York’s Finger Lakes (we talked about Watkins Glen State Park here) and Adirondacks regions (we talked about Lake Placid here), Texas Hill Country, Maine’s Mount Katahdin, and the shores of Lake Erie (we talked about Cedar Point here).
• You may opt to go remote and camp in a national forest during the solar eclipse.
• Many popular state parks are in the Path of Totality! Too many to list. RVshare’s State Park Camping Guide has a list broken down by state, with the percentage of totality listed for each. You may also Google the state name plus “solar eclipse” and “state park” –most states in the path have web pages set up!

Can You Camp for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse?YES! The eclipse is on a Monday, making for a perfect long weekend opportunity. If you’d like to plan a tent- or RV-camping trip for the solar eclipse, here’s what you need to know:

• RVshare has a Total Solar Eclipse RV Guide, which can help you find a region, located a campground, and/or rent an RV.
• Reservations are more likely to be fully booked in the Path of Totality already, especially in popular state and national parks.
• However, campgrounds can still be reserved as thousands are in the path of the partial eclipse
• Even if you cannot camp right in the path, you may be able to get much closer, maybe even close enough for a day trip. Regions outside of the Path of Totality are likely to have more campsites available.
• According to RVshare, “49% are considering travel to a remote destination for a less crowded experience, while 35% are considering travel to a city along the path to view it with a crowd of others”
• After narrowing in on a region, might use sites like these to locate camping options:
  • Campendium – narrow in on RV parks and campgrounds in the region
  • Hipcamp – find and book tent and RV sites on private land
  • Spot2Nite – can directly book tent and RV sites

What if You Don’t Have an RV?Even if you don’t have an RV of your own, you can still plan a solar eclipse camping trip, thanks to RVshare:

• RVshare offers rental options available in the Path of Totality and beyond.
• All-in-One Bookable Packages are available from RVshare and Spot2Nite, which include the RV rental, campsite, delivery & setup, and access to a concierge team

To listen to Jeremy interview Kerri Cox from Travels with Birdy about planning a solar eclipse RV trip, please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

How Can You View the Eclipse in a Safe, Fun Way?You can hang out alone in nature, you can join a city festival, you can find a state park—no matter what you do, there are many ways to enjoy the eclipse:

• Many localities are hosting special events with science speakers, family activities, music, and more. NASA is doing live streaming from several locations in the Path of Totality.
• Make sure to take your special eclipse glasses, as you cannot look directly at the sun. These will be handed out at special events across the nation or you may order online.
• You may want to make a pinhole projector to see the moon begin to eclipse the sun.
• You may notice crescent-shaped shadows.

What’s the Bottom Line about RV Camping During the Solar Eclipse?Our main advice is to be flexible! Though many state and national parks in the Path of Totality are fully book, you can still find a way to celebrate the eclipse, whether you camp near a prime region and then make a day trip of it or whether you decide to just enjoy the partial eclipse near you. Also, while you may imagine the eclipse being cooler in some particular location, you can pull over on the side of the road and still have an amazing experience. The sky is big!

No matter where you land, we hope you find a wonderful spot to enjoy this rare experience! The next big one won’t be visible in the U.S. until 2045.

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On today’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are answering questions from members of The RV Atlas Group on Facebook. Winter may still have its icy grip over many of our group members–but that is not stopping them from planning their spring and summer camping trips. Many of the questions in the group are travel and campground related right now as our group members turn their attention towards spring camping. In this Q+A episode of our podcast we answer questions about Grand Teton and Yellowstone and flying and camping instead of taking an RV. We also offer up some great recommendations for beach camping on the East Coast.

Here are some of the questions that we discuss in this week’s episode–along with answers from group members:

A question from Craig Welch about Planning a Trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton…Q: “Trying to figure what the lessor of the two evils is. We are in the process of planning/booking a northern national parks trip for August of this year. I’m not sure what the best option is for Teton/Yellowstone. One central campground(Headwaters Campground) and hit both parks for the week. Or two separate, Colter Bay for Teton and Yellowstone Grizzly for Yellowstone 3 or 4 days each. Also if you have a more preferred campground, let me know!”

Ron Brogan Answered…

A: “We have been there four times. Main advice is don’t short change Teton. It’s beautiful and a lot to do. That’s why we recommend using campgrounds in both parks. Second recommendation is to make Old Faithful your #1 stop, watch her erupt a few times, then Go See Yellowstone. Its a big place with lots to see. Chack out the northeast entrance road. Reminds us of Trail Ridge Road in RMNP.”

Erik Anderson Answered…

A: Craig, we concur with the others…do the two campgrounds. When we spent a couple weeks there, we did a combination of West Yellowstone and Grant CG, and then Colter Bay down in Tetons. Yeah, Yellowstone is HUGE……. 😉

Tracy Barricks Phillip Answered…

Someone said it was late to plan for this year. It may be in a 6 month window. I booked 10 days at both Colter Bay and Fishing Bridge and then after tweaking our route before and after canceled a few days of both. We enjoyed both campgrounds and adventures in both parks!

A Question from Shire Titus Ketterer about Flying and Camping…. Q: “Jumping in for another question for those who fly to a destination to camp…. how is it?! Do you bring a ton of stuff? I honestly never camped in a cabin and I don’t think I would have to bring a ton but we are over-prepared campers when loading up the TT and have so much “backup” this feels weird to only bring a suitcase camping!”

Rob Burghdoff Answered…

A: “We did a fly in camp over winter break. We brought nothing with us and hit the local Publix for everything. Tried to buy minimal amounts but ended up with extras. If I were at an airbnb we would have tossed most everything but being at a campground we made some acquaintances to offload the extras. Thu is such as water bottles, laundry soap, eggs, foil.. etc.”

JP Answered…

A: “We camped in New Zealand and Europe, the NZ was a rental and supplied everything we needed except food and toiletries. Europe we purchased a car and caravan in England, scoured charity shops for our necessities.”

Jeremy Answered…

A: The key here is to know what comes with the cabin and how does not. If they do not provide linens then it’s a no go. If they do not provide a coffee maker it’s a no go. Most cabin rentals are good at listing what comes with and what does not. If the cabin rental does not provide such information that would be a no go for me. Happy to answer any other questions. We have done a bunch of fly and cabin and fly and rent RV trips!

A Question from Ashley Anne’s Shady Campgrounds Near the Beach and Shops on the East Coast…Q: “Looking for a shady campground close to a beach and shops on the east coast?”

Craig Welch answered…

“If you’re into Virginia, Sun Outdoors Cape Charles. What used to be Cherrystone RV resort. It’s right on the Chesapeake Bay. Nice campground with a private beach and pier. We’ve stayed twice and enjoyed it very much.”

Samantha Willmot answered…

“Beachcomber Campground in CapeMay, NJ”

Jeremy and Stephanie answered…

We also loved what used to be Holly Shores and what used to be Seashore Campsites. Holly shores is now—-Sun Outdoors Cape May and Seashore Campsites is now Sun Retreats Seashore.

Kevin Mattison answered…

“Myrtle Beach KOA Resort, upper level. totally shaded. A couple blocks away from the beach. best ever.”

Susan Sitter answered…

Myrtle Beach State Park. Beautiful, shaded and across the street from the beach.

Courtney Runs answered…

“Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware”

Bryan Winter answered…

“Sandy Pines Campground is one of my New England favorites.”

Jeremy and Stephanie also recommended…

“Atlantic Oaks on Cape Cod! Eastham Mass has lots of cute little cape towns around and you can for a pretty short drive drive to Provincetown!”

“James Island County Park in Charleston puts you near downtown and some awesome Charleston Beaches.”

The post Grand Teton and Yellowstone, Fly and Camp, Beach Campgrounds (RV Atlas Q+A) appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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The Tenth Anniversary Season of The RV Atlas!2024 marks the tenth anniversary season of The RV Atlas podcast which first launched on September 20th, 2024. On this week’s episode of the podcast we kick off the anniversary season of the show and talk about our memories (or our lack of memories) from that first year of the RV Atlas podcast. We will also play a classic clip at the end of the show from our very first episode–and play other classic clips throughout the 2024 season.

We also give a sneak peek of the upcoming content in the months ahead. This season the RV Atlas wants to highlight what is best about the RV and Camping industries right now. We feel like there is some lingering negative mojo in the air from the aftermath of the pandemic–but this year we want to talk about what is good and what is best about the RV and camping industries in 2024.

This season the RV Atlas podcast will also focus on the following:

• Companies making great RVs right now (including some of the independent manufactures)
• Great episodes with the correspondents that you know and love
• New voices and new correspondents
• Tons of campground reviews
• Seasonal Gear Guides and a Holiday Gift Guide
• Q&A episodes with questions from our Facebook group
• And so much more!

Episode one of season 10 also includes a healthy dose of RV Atlas updates including, but not limited to, the following:

• Why we did not cover our trips to Utah and Colorado on the podcast last summer because of Jeremy’s work with Good Housekeeping magazine
• Stephanie’s new role as VP of Content and Partnerships and co-founder at Park Vendor Review
• The launch of Park Vendor Review’s new Campground Confidential podcast
• The upcoming release of the Where Should We Camp Next? Camping Journal
• The upcoming release of Where Should We Camp Next? Budget Camping
• The summer 2025 release of our first two children’s books with Duopress

2024 RV and Camping TrendsWe also talk about trends in the RV and Camping industries–and things we are noticing in both spaces. We pull the data from the annual camping reports by KOA, RVshare, Campspot, and the Dyrt.

• We talk about the rise of winter camping with data from The Dyrt
• We talk about new campers (with data from KOA’s report) and why many of them may not return to camping again
• We talk about the high interest in camping for the 2024 eclipse with data from RVshare’s annual report.
• We end by talking about Campspot’s data about how many campers are seeking relaxation during their 2024 camping trips and less “revenge travel” to epic destinations.

Thank you so much for joining us for the tenth anniversary season of the RV Atlas podcast!

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We have been impressed with inTech RV for many years now. There are three main reasons why their product lineups has sparked our interest again and again. Firstly, because their exterior styling is striking and unique. inTech RV’s have a very cool combination of retro and modern styling that we love. Secondly, their floorpan offerings are innovative and appeal to both adventurous RV owners, and those that simply want to escape the everyday and head to the campground to relax. But the thing that has impressed us the most about inTech RV is their reputation for building quality products.

We used to test RV’s for (the now defunct) Trailer Life Magazine and the conversation around the campfire at night with the other reviewers often turned into a conversation about RV quality. Several of the technical writers at Trailer Life told us that, in their personal opinion, inTech made one of the best RV’s in the industry. One the years we have also heard from many happy inTech owners that also praise the quality of their units.

We have wanted to have someone from inTech on The RV Atlas podcast for an interview for several years now–and we finally made it happen. inTech’s Keith Fishburn agreed to come on the show and give us a wide-ranging overview of the company’s diverse and growing offerings. We also talk about the company’s culture and history. They are different than the rest of the RV industry in more ways than one.

To listen to Jeremy interview Keith Fishburn from inTech RV please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Or read on below for a brief overview of inTech RV’s product lineup.

inTech FlyerThe Flyer series is built for adventure and for bringing along all of the gear you need to have fun. With floorpans ranging from 12’5″ to 22’4″ there is something for solo travelers and for families–and for everyone in-between. Each Flyer has an “All-Aluminum, Fully Welded Cage Frame” and a rear cargo door that makes storing and transporting gear easy.

inTech LunaAccording to inTech, “Luna is reimagining and redefining the classic teardrop camper. With an inspiring fresh new look.” We are head over heels in love with Luna and are particularly impressed with its outdoor kitchen. The foodies in our family would love to cook some great meals in the great outdoors using that amazing kitchen.

inTech SolThe four floorpans in the Sol lineup can sleep either 2 or 4 people depending on the chosen floorpan. The exterior styling on the Sol has a retro vibe–but the interiors are all fresh, modern, and packed with conveniences. The panoramic front windshields on these units bring the outside in by giving you commanding views of your campsite.

inTech TerraThe two floorpans in the Terra lineup offer more room, but similar exterior styling to the Sol lineup. Terra’s interiors are luxurious and the quality craftsmenship is visible in every detail. You may think you are inside of an Airstream when you are relaxing in a Terra–but the price point is much friendlier.

inTech O-V-RThe inTech O-V-R is appealing to those that want a rugged look and boondocking capability-but still want a luxurious interior with lots of creature comforts. According to inTech “O-V-R is designed to handle rough terrain, giving you the freedom to explore even the most remote locations.” O-V-R may be able to get you into remote locations–but you can definitely do so with all of the comforts of home at your fingertips.

To find our more about inTech RV–please click here.

The post Say Hello to inTech RV: An Overview of Flyer, Luna, Sol, Terra, and O-V-R appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Many RV owners go into hibernation mode after winterizing their RVs. But we want you to get outside this winter and get yourselves ready for an epic year of adventure in 2024. One way to stay active during the winter months is to keep camping! Here are 16 great tips for winter camping from the RV Atlas blog and podcast. Another great way to stay active this winter is join the 1000 Hours Outside movement founded and led by Ginny Yurich from the terrific website and podcast of the same name.

Ginny is a force of nature and a great inspiration to us here at the RV Atlas. She invited us to be on her show last spring and we had an absolute blast talking to her. We knew we had to have her on our show right away. Ginny loves the great outdoors and inspiring others to get outside–and she is also a passionate camper. Her family owns a pop up camper and loves to camp in and around their home state of Michigan. On today’s episode we are going to talk about a bunch of inspiring topics with Ginny–and we sure hope you join us for the fun!

To listen to Jeremy interview Ginny Yurich please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows.

1000 Hours OutsideThe concept behind 1000 Hours Outside is that children and their families should do exactly that–spend 1000 hours outside every year. When Ginny started her program the average child was spending about 1200 hours a year online–so why not counter that by trying to spend 1000 hours outside? Ginny was partly inspired by 18th century educator Charlotte Mason who believed that that children “should be outside for 4-6 hours on every tolerable day.” Her mission and her credo modernizes this message for the first generation of parents who are raising their kids in a world that is oversaturated with social media, video games, and a torrent of addictive content that is keeping our kids away from their best lives in the great outdoors.

Until the Streetlights Come OnJeremy and Ginny also spend some time on this week’s podcast talking about her wonderful new book, Until the Streetlights Come On: How a Return to Play Brightens Our Present and Prepares Kids For an Uncertain Future. During our interview Ginny said that she hopes that “this book is a message of hope.” We would like to confirm that it absolutely is a message of hope for anyone that believes in the power of the great outdoors. With chapters on the power of boredom, how play enhances social skills, and creating learning that lasts–this book will help you take a deep breath and think about what matters the most to you and your family.

Get Outside This Winter!We round out our interview with Ginny by talking about some tips and tricks for getting outside this winter. Ginny and her family live in Michigan and they love to get outside in the winter. She shares her tips for taking great day trips in cold weather and having the right clothing to make it fun. Ginny believes that there is nothing more magical than a bonfire in the winter months–and we couldn’t agree more.

If you want to spend more time outside this winter–and in 2024–make sure you grab a copy of Ginny’s book and subscribe to her podcast! We promise that you will love them both!

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Holiday shopping season is upon us and it is time to pick out some awesome gifts for the campers on our lists. This year we focused on choosing gifts for campers that (for the most part) come in at under $50. Just because a gift is affordable doesn’t mean that it can’t be memorable and fun. We think that all of these gifts for campers pack a serious punch and most of them can be enjoyed year around. Also included are two “RV Atlas Classics” from previous gift guides. These gifts have stood the test of time and are perennial favorites in our family and among our podcast listeners.

Without further ado–here is this year’s RV Atlas holiday gift guide. Let us know what gifts you pick out for your loved ones–and what gifts you might get for yourselves!

Gifts for Campers Under $502024 National Park Foundation Wall Calendar ($7.15)The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America’s National Parks and they partner with our publisher, Sourcebooks, every year to put out an excellent National Parks Calendar. This year’s calendar features stunning photos of Joshua Tree, Zion, Mount Rainier, and nine other national parks. Each month’s photo will inspire you to plan your next great adventure to one of our magnificent National Parks.

A companion National Park Foundation day planner is also available from Sourcebooks.

Life is Better at the Campsite RV Sketch Mug ($8.99)We love to give gifts that can be used year around and for years to come. This adorable “Life is Better at the Campsite” Sketch Mug will keep camping season alive all winter long with its cute drawings of just about every kind of RV. Camco makes an entire series of super cute LIBATC mugs–but this one is our clear favorite. It is a fairly large mug which is great for big cups of coffee on cold winter mornings!

Spot It! Camping Card Game RV Atlas Classic ($9.99)Spot It! is probably our all-time favorite game to keep in the camper. It is compact and affordable–and most importantly–it is tons of fun for the whole family. The camping edition has camping-centric icons (think lanterns, tents, and campfires) that players have to match up to win sets of cards. Spot It! is fast paced and can be played again and again without your kids getting bored. This is a perfect game for rainy days in the RV or for after dinner on the picnic table.

Where Should We Camp Next? Books ($9 to $12 Each)The Where Should We Camp Next? series makes a perfect trilogy of books for the campers on your list that love planning trips. Purchase them together or separately and give the gift of adventure all year long!

Where Should We Camp Next?is a captivating journey through 300+ of America’s most breathtaking camping destinations! Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the camping scene, this guide offers invaluable insights and inspiration to help you plan your next camping adventure with ease.

Packed with insider tips and expert recommendations, this comprehensive book is the perfect companion for campers, road trippers, and adventurers seeking unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors. From hiking scenic trails and spotting wildlife to fishing, kayaking, and stargazing, this book is your gateway to unforgettable experiences in the wilderness.

USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Award Winner

Where Should We Camp Next? National Parks features 300+ of the best camping and glamping spots in and around national parks, seashores, monuments, and more! A delightful Christmas gift for National Park lovers, campers, and the outdoorsy people in your life!

The national parks of the United States have been called “America’s best idea,” and some of the best camping and glamping experiences our country has to offer can be found in and around National Park Service units, including national parks, seashores, monuments, lakeshores, and battlegrounds. Whether you’re camping close to home or gathering ideas for an epic American road trip, the in-depth profiles of more than three hundred amazing outdoor accommodation destinations in fifty National Park Service units will help you find the best places to park your RV, pitch your tent, or explore creative and memorable glamping opportunities.

Where Should We Camp Next? Camping 101 is a family-friendly guide to camping in RVs, cabins, tents, and more―because the best memories are the ones made around the campfire

More and more people are excited about getting outdoors and experiencing adventures in nature with their family and friends, and whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned pro Where Should We Camp Next?: Camping 101 is the best resource to learn more about the camping lifestyle! From planning road trip itineraries, deciding where to camp, and discovering unique attractions and activities in fascinating destinations, Where Should We Camp Next?: Camping 101 is a beautifully illustrated camping book for adults packed with personal anecdotes, packing lists, campground recommendations, and recipes that will help you create a one-of-a-kind vacation on a family-friendly budget.

Buc-ee’s Famous Beaver Nuggets ($12.39)The RV Atlas group on Facebook is filled with Buc-ee’s fans that can’t get enough of their clean toilets and brisket sandwiches. We will be the first to confess that we always end up filling up a few shopping bags with snacks and merch on every single trip to the world’s wildest gas station. They may not have a gas station in New Jersey yet, but we recently discovered that we can get most of our favorite Buc-ee’s treats at their Amazon shop. Beaver Nuggets for the holidays anyone?

Easy Camping Cocktails: Pre-Batch Recipes for Tasty, On-the-Go Drinks ($14.99)Tucker Ballister’s Easy Camping Cocktails: Pre-Batch Recipes for Tasty, On-the-Go Drinks would make a perfect stocking stuffer for those that love to enjoy a cocktail around the campfire. This charming little book includes chapters on “Cocktail Classics,” “Fruity and Sweet Cocktails,” and “Hot and Frozen Cocktails” among others.

If Not You, Who? Smokey Bear Tin Sign ($14.99)This 12.5″W x 16″H tin sign makes a perfect gift for the Smokey Bear fan on your holiday list. But seriously, what camper isn’t a Smokey Bear fan? We have had one of these tin signs in our office for years and it definitely brings a distinct camping vibe into our work space. But a tin sign like this would also be a great gift for the camping kids on your list.

Smokey Bear 10 Inch Stuffed Animal by Aurora ($20.25)The littlest campers on your list will love this adorable Smokey Bear stuffed animal by Aurora. It depicts Smokey as a younger (but still serious) bear. This depiction of Smokey is soft and fluffy to the touch and will be loved by any child–but it will also serve to teach them a valuable listen about stewardship and safety. “If not you, who?”

Victorinox Swiss Classic Foldable Pairing Knife ($23.19)This wavy-edged foldable knife from Victorinox has been a go-to in our camp kitchen this year. We love foldable knifes because they are safe and compact for RV storage and because they are safe to have around kids. It comes in a variety of colors including the classic red (pictured above) that will match your trusty Swiss Army knife.

The Original Grydlmat for Blackstone 22″ Griddles ($24.99)We have been testing out our 22″ Grydlmat since last spring and we are very pleased with the results. When our Blackstone griddle is not in use for a few weeks at a time we make sure to cover it up with the Grydlmat. It fits like a glove. It protects the griddle surface from rusting and getting funky when not in use. When we pull it off to start cooking again the surface is clean and ready to go–just like we left it!

The Grydlmat is also available for other Blackstone sizes–so don’t fret if you have a 17 inch griddle–or one of the larger models in your backyard.

Coleman Classic Single Burner Butane Stove ($27.99)Our camping buddy and podcast correspondent Phil Travaglia recommended this little single burner camping stove to us a few years ago. We bought one but then never used it until this fall. But now we are using it all of the time. It is the perfect stove to use with our Omnia Camping Oven, and it is also a great side burner to use when we are doing most of our cooking on the Blackstone and don’t need a larger two-burner camp stove. The Butane cartridges also work well and are pretty affordable at the time of this writing.

Life is Better at the Campsite Nesting Bowl Set ($44.99)Having a good set of nesting bowls in your RV is an absolute necessity. We love these “Life is Better at the Campsite” nesting bowls because of their retro colors, camping graphics, and excellent quality. Whether you are stirring up pancake mix, mixing up a salad, or putting out some chips and dip–these bowls have you got you covered. Each bowl also comes with a sealable lid which makes them perfect for leftovers. Use coupon code RVATLAS10 to get 10 percent off your entire order at camcooutdoors.com.

Gifts for Campers Over $50Estwing Fireside Friend Special Edition w/ Genuine Leather Grip RV Atlas Classic ($57.24)The Estwing Fireside Friend Special Edition is not just a camp axe, it is an indestructible splitting tool (made of solid American steel) that will help make your campfires burn brighter and warmer. The 4lb. head allows you to split pieces of firewood with ease. Smaller pieces of firewood burn faster too. So your campfire will be up and running in no time. The 14″ Fireside Friend has a hand sharpened edge and is made in America, so there is nothing not to love about it. This is a piece of gear that you can, and should, pass on to your children someday.

Omnia Kit 1 Camping Oven and Accessories ($169.99)Want to do some baking at the campground but don’t have a stove? The Omnia Camp Oven Kit 1 comes with great accessories and will let you bake (or cook) your heart out at the campground. This versatile circular oven is also great for campers who don’t have a built-in oven, since it is super easy to transport and to use.

The Omnia Stovetop Oven has three pieces: a steel base, which is circular and moves heat around the bottom of the pan; the aluminum Omnia pan, which has special holes to direct the heat upward; and a lid, which pushes the heat back down. This creates a great baking oven. You’ll recognize the Omnia by its iconic circular shape and its red lid. The Kit 1 (see link above) also comes with a Silicone Mold, Potholders, a Baking Grid and a Storage Bag.

What makes the Omnia special is how evenly the device heats and how many different types of meals and snacks you can make using it! Bon appetite!

Yoke Chuck Box Camp Kitchen ($329.00)This American-made Chuck Box Camp Kitchen by Yoke Outdoors has become a real favorite around RV Atlas headquarters these past few months. It has room inside to store just about everything we need to make a feast at the campground and includes a drawer for silverware and another small drawer that is great for cleaning supplies and can openers etc. The top also serves as a table for our two-burner camp stove and the lid is removable and can be used as a sink to wash dishes. This is a terrific product made by a family-owned small business based out of Minnesota and we love every inch of it.

The post 18 Holiday Gifts for Campers (Mostly!) Under $50 appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We have been following Sequoia+Salt on social media for several years. Their stunning custom camper van conversions have a unique look and vibe all their own. That look and vibe is inspired by surf trips to Baja, Mexico and road trips to Sequoia National Park in California–and life in and around the famous beaches of the Jersey Shore. The interiors are light, bright and airy, and the pride of craftsmanship is visibly apparent in every inch of these vans. Just looking through Sequoia+Salt’s Instagram account fills us with wanderlust and a desire to escape into the great outdoors–whether that be to the beach–or to the mountains.

Our interest in Sequoia+Salt’s journey as a company in the #vanlife and RV space has also been sparked by their proximity to us right here in the Garden State. Their headquarters in Manasquan, NJ is just a few miles away from us.

The RV Atlas Meets Sequoia+Salt at HersheyWe were thrilled to get to meet Chris Shashaty at the Hershey RV Show this past fall. Chris and his wife Sara are the co-owners and co-founders of Sequoia+Salt. We looked up from our table in the Giant Center where we were selling our Where Should We Camp Next? books and Chris was there to say hello. Since then we have visited their headquarters and checked out a bunch of their vans in person. They are even more impressive when you step inside of them. Looking at pictures can only get you so far. Photographs show you how beautiful they are. But when you step inside you can feel the quality of the build and the sturdiness of the craftsmanship.

To say that we are impressed with Sequoia+Salt would be a massive understatement. We are in love with what they are doing and can’t wait to see them grow into a true next generation RV manufacturer right here at the Jersey Shore. We love to see independent RV companies building quality products that they stand behind with integrity and passion–and this is one of those companies. One of the few.

To be quite frank–it gives us hope for the future of the entire industry.

To listen to Jeremy interview Chris and go into detail about Sequoia+Salt’s product offerings–please click on the media player above. Or subscribe to the The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

Sequoia+Salt’s Origin StoryThe visionaries (and co-owners and co-founders) behind Sequoia+Salt are Jersey Shore natives Chris and Sara Shashaty who met here in the Garden State–but found themselves living and working in Southern California in the years leading up to Hurricane Sandy in 2012. After Sandy hit the Jersey Shore Sara found herself heading back home because her family home had been destroyed. Chris stayed behind in California where he was working as a photographer and filmaker.

He soon found himself becoming burnt out from all of the moving around for his work. So he started looking into buying a used van to live in while he worked on film projects around the state. He purchased a (very) used Toyota Chinook and moved around the state following his work wherever it led him. After about 8 months Sara (who was back home in New Jersey) questioned whether they were still dating. Chris told her that he would be “home the next day.” It was a bit more complicated than that–but he did end up back home at the Jersey Shore very soon after.

Chris and Sara soon bought a Ram ProMaster and started a Photo Booth business out of the van. They also started renting the van on Outdoorsy. During the pandemic their Photo Booth business slowed down and he also ended up working as a salesperson at Colonial Airstream in New Jersey. All of these experiences led Chris and Sara to take a huge leap of faith and open Sequoia+Salt–a van conversion company that is making waves in Manasquan, New Jersey. The company recently earned RVIA certification for all of their vans–so they are officially an independent RV Manufacturer operating here at the Jersey Shore.

Sequoia+Salt’s Van Conversion ProcessSequoia+Salt currently does custom van conversions on the ProMaster, Sprinter, and Transit chassis. But they are also focusing on building their own brand specific floorpans called “Stoke,” “Raritan,” and “Highpoint.” Every van that Sequoia+Salt builds starts with a conversation between the future owners and Sara about what they want to achieve with their van build. This process is personal and creative and begins with drawings and ends up with digital renderings. To find out more about their van conversion process please click here.

Keep reading to find out more about each of Sequoia+Salt’s floorpans. For complete details about all of their features (including information about their on-board power systems) please follow the links to each floorpan’s homepage on sequoiasaltvans.com.

Sequoia+Salt: Stoke BuildThe Stoke Build uses the Mercedes Sprinter chassis and is designed for adventure on or off-road. Stoke has a rugged look but is still comfortable and filled with conveniences like a single induction burner, a sink with a solid amount of counter space, and a lounge seat that is cozy for reading and relaxing at night. You can find out more about the Stoke Build and its other features right here.

Sequoia+Salt: Highpoint BuildThe Highpoint Build can be created on a ProMaster, Transit, or Sprinter chassis. It offers real livability for those that take long road trips and want a home away from home. There is a dinette table for two, a galley kitchen with sink and single burner and a 6.5 gallon galley water system. You can find out more information about the Highpoint Build and all of its features right here.

Sequoia+Salt: Raritan BuildThe Raritan Build was Sequoia+Salt’s first floorpan and continues to be a bestseller for the company. This floorpan (which can be built on the Sprinter, ProMaster, and Transit Chassis) has two bench seats with a Lagun Table in between that is situated right next to the bed. Once again, this floorpan includes a galley kitchen, a slide-out toilet drawer, and plenty of storage. To find out more about the Raritan Build please click here.

Optional Upgrades from Sequoia+SaltUpgrades galore are available on any Sequoia+Salt floorpan. Please look under each build description (links above) to find out more about adding accessories and equipment to personalize your van so that it is ready to go for your next great adventure.

To find our more about Sequoia+Salt head on over to their website. Or give them a call at 732-357-3483. Also make sure you are following them on Instagram at @Sequoia_Salt. Just be forewarned–you may fall in love with this company if you do.

We certainly did.

Our van life dreams have never been stronger–and they have never felt so close to home.

The post Van Life Dreaming With Chris Shashaty from Sequoia+Salt appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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You may dream of visiting all 63 national parks with your RV, but that task is actually impossible—or nearly impossible—for a number of national parks. In fact, you’ll find 13 national parks you can’t reach by RV, spanning Alaska, Hawaii, American Samoa, and the mainland. If you want to hit all 63 national parks, plan to park your RV and take other modes of transportation, but the efforts will pay off with big adventures.

We have some insider tips on these phenomenal parks thanks to Shellie Bailey-Shah, from KidTripster. Shellie has been on a quest to visit all the national parks in the NPS system and recently checked the final two off of her list, Kobuk Valley and Gates of the Arctic in Alaska. Not many people can make this claim! Shellie previously shared her list of the top underrated national parks, and we are excited to share her insider tips for visiting 13 national parks you can’t reach by RV.

To hear Shellie’s full interview and more insider information about the 13 national parks you can’t reach by RV, click play on the media player above, or look for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast player.

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island of HawaiiObviously, you can’t drive or tow your RV to Hawaii. However, you can certainly camp on the islands,or you can rent a car and stay in hotels or rentals. While there, visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii to get up close and personal with two active volcanoes. Shellie’s insider tip is to visit just before sunset to catch views of the hot lava rolling into the sea—a dramatic scene, for sure. Conditions change frequently, so always check before heading in or make a stop at the visitor center. To hear more about touring the Big Island in a camper van, check out this post.

2. Haleakalā National Park, MauiWhile in Hawaii, you can check another national park off the list with a visit to Haleakalā National Park on Maui. Home to rain forests and volcanic landscapes, this park is especially popular at sunrise and sunset. While it is necessary to brace yourself for some extreme weather changes, you will get to experience some of the darkest skies in the nation and ever-changing views. For an active way to explore the fascinating geology and habitats, Shellie recommends booking a self-guided bike tour through Bike Maui. They drive you up the side of the mountain, allowing you to ride down at your own speed. Good to know: This park was not affected by the 2023 wildfires.

3. Channel Islands National Park, CaliforniaWhile you can reach California with your RV, you can’t actually take it to this park since the park isn’t reachable by roads. Located off the coast of Ventura, Channel Islands National Park allows you to experience the wild islands of the Pacific. The park includes five islands, with Santa Cruz being among the easiest and cheapest to visit. A one-hour ferry ride will get you there. In addition to the island’s hiking trails, views, and historic sites, Shellie recommends sea kayaking as a don’t-miss activity. You can explore sea caves and a unique kelp forest. Plan this as a morning activity, and prepare for a bit of a challenge due to the winds and current. Check out Shellie’s post about Channel Islands on KidTripster for more inspiration and tips.

4. Isle Royale National Park, MichiganAnother park that you cannot fully explore by vehicle is Isle Royale National Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. To reach this rugged, expansive landscape, you have to cross Lake Superior by taking a ferry from Houghton, Michigan; Copper Harbor, Michigan; or Grand Portage, Minnesota. Shellie opted to visit from Grand Portage. Once in Isle Royale, you can hike, paddle, camp, bike, and more. If you do have your RV and want to camp nearby, Shellie’s insider tip is to stay in Grand Marais. The city-run RV park is located on Lake Superior, and Shellie especially enjoyed eating at the Angry Trout Cafe.

5. Dry Tortugas National Park, FloridaWhile it takes some effort to even reach Key West, Florida, in your RV, you’ll have to head another 70 miles out to sea by boat or seaplane to reach Dry Tortugas National Park. This park is primarily a watery playground, featuring the remnants of a 19th-century fort and seven islands. The striking blue waters are especially picturesque, offering a place for diving, snorkeling, paddling, and more. You might even see sea turtles. If you find the idea of tent camping on a deserted island adventurous, you can do that here, too! Shellie recommends taking the seaplane to reach Dry Tortugas, which is a really unique experience. Check out her post on KidTripster for all the details of her visit.

Remember, to hear more of Jeremy and Shellie’s conversation about these 13 national parks you cannot reach by RV, click on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas on your favorite podcast player.

6. Virgin Islands National Park, St. JohnWe will leave the mainland for our next set of parks. Virgin Islands National Park, located on the island of St. John, offers an exhilarating mix of natural landscapes and fun amenities. Shellie describes this park as “beautiful turquoise waters, white sand beaches, great snorkeling with abundant sea life including turtles…plus a beachside bar and food trucks.” You can stay on the island of St. John or on nearby St. Thomas and take a car ferry over. This one is also especially great to explore with teens, and Shellie shared several tips on KidTripster for planning a visit with teens.

7. National Park of American Samoa, American SamoaWhile we hate to ever diss a national park, sometimes, it’s fair to point out a few honest critiques, and for Shellie, the National Park of American Samoa was simply underwhelming, especially consider the logistics and expense involved in getting there. If you aren’t especially trying to visit all 63 national parks, this one might be better to skip. American Samoa is a U.S. territory located in the South Pacific about halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. To get there, you need to fly to Honolulu and then take a six-hour flight to American Samoa.

Once there, even though it’s located on an island, you won’t find beautiful beaches. Instead, much of the park is on cliffs. The primary activity is hiking, but many hikes are either super easy or super challenging due to elevation gains and oppressive humidity. Snorkeling might be the main highlight. The non-park areas also don’t offer much to explore. Shellie was so underwhelmed that her family decided to leave early! Sounds like there is a reason this is the second least-visited national park.

8. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, AlaskaNext, we are off to Alaska! There are six national parks in the Last Frontier, some offering a better experience than others. Let’s start with Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, which is a whopping 13-million-acres! Technically, you can drive your RV to this park; however, you cannot get to the heart of the park with it, so it’s worth leaving the RV in a nearby town or at home in the mainland. It is worth the effort to visit.

This rugged landscape offers mountains and glaciers to explore, and it is one of Shellie’s all-time favorite of the 63 national parks. Her family loved the unique experiences of ice climbing and ice caving. You can hear more about it in our previous post on underrated national parks, and she shared the full details on KidTripster.

9. *Glacier Bay National Park, AlaskaProbably 99% of people see Glacier Bay National Park by cruise since it is only reachable by air or sea. Once there, you can explore an exciting landscape of fjords and glaciers along the coastline or head inland to find rainforests. Shellie’s insider tip is to go with one of the smaller ship cruise lines, which host 30 to 100 people on the boat. These smaller ships can get deeper into the crevices along the coast. She shared her experiences cruising Alaska’s Interior Passage with UnCruise and Alaskan Dream* on KidTripster.

10-11. Katmai and Lake Clark National Parks, AlaskaShellie calls Katmai National Park and Lake Clark National Park the “bear parks.” You’ve likely seen photos of videos of these, with bears lined up catching salmon. But, that’s not all you’ll find. These are lands of picturesque waterfalls, turquoise lakes, steaming volcanoes, and stunning mountain views. For the best chance of seeing bears, plan your visit for July.

Shellie has some great insider tips for these parks. Plan to stay in Homer, and book your bush flight on the first day of your visit. Otherwise, you could find your flight delayed by fog or high winds and miss your opportunity to head into the parks. Be flexible, as all excursions are based on the ever-changing weather and landing conditions. Shellie shares more details in this post on KidTripster. Make sure you come prepared because you are truly visiting the wilderness!

12-13. Kobuk Valley & Gates of the Arctic, AlaskaThere’s wilderness and then there’s WILDerness. Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the the least-visited national parks, even beating out the ones in the middle of an ocean. Gates of the Arctic National Park is no easier to explore. These remote parks do not have any roads or trails.

To reach these parks, you have to fly to Anchorage or Fairbanks and then on to Kotzebue inside the Arctic Circle. The best way to visit is by booking a bush plane. The most accessible option is to do a fly-over tour with brief stops in the parks. However, if you want a true adventure, you can camp in the park, either by carrying in all of your own equipment or by renting a setup from an outfitter. Shellie opted for option three and camped two nights amid the sand dunes in Kobuk Valley and two nights along a glacial river in Gates of the Arctic.

Shellie doesn’t necessarily recommend doing what she did, again, unless you are quite determined to reach all 63 national parks. It’s terribly expensive to reach and experience these two parks. Plus, there’s a short window to do so (basically mid July). While there, you are likely to experience a siege of mosquitoes unlike no other. Shellie’s family had to wear full head-to-toe netting.

And, then there’s the bushwhacking….which Shellie says isn’t as romantic as it sounds (does it sound romantic to you?). The scenery is beautiful, and you leave with a newfound appreciation for trail systems. If you are determined to tackle these two parks, your best bet might be the fly-over tour.

We cannot thank Shellie enough for these amazing tips for visiting national parks you can’t reach by RV! Seriously, her insider experience is irreplaceable! We also thank Shellie for her beautiful adventure photos that can allow those of us who might not get to mark all 63 parks off of our bucket list a peek at some amazing locations.

The post 13 National Parks You Can’t Reach by RV appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Winterization is not always a fun topic for RV owners–because it can mean that camping season is coming to an end. But learning the ins and outs of winterizing your rig is very important. Here at the RV Atlas we think it is essential for each RV owner to learn how to winterize their rigs and have the right winterization gear to get the job done correctly. Why do we think that RV owners should be able to winterize their own rigs? Because cold weather can sneak up on us and getting an appointment for winterization at your RV dealer can sometimes be a bit harder than you think.

During our first three years of RV ownership we had our dealer winterize our rig. But during that third year it got cold faster than we anticipated and we ended up running our RV’s heat for several nights before the appointment date at our dealer. We did this to protect our rig from the cold weather. At that point we decided that it was time to learn how to winterize our rig so that we could take care of it ourselves anytime the weather got unexpectedly cold.

During those next few years when we started winterizing our own rig we quickly discovered that Camco made just about all of the products that we used to get the job done. We liked the fact that these products were readily available, easy to use, and quite affordable.

Winterization Gear GuideThis RV winterization gear guide features great products from Camco for bypassing your water heater, for blowing out your lines, and for protecting your rig from bad weather, bad odors, moisture, flying insects, and much more. You might not need all of the products on this list (because winterization is a very personalized process) but all of the products that you do decide you need are probably here.

Camco products are widely available at big box stores, hardware stores, Camping World Stores, RV dealers, and more. You can also buy many of them directly from Camco at camcooutdoors.com. If you do purchase them directly from Camco please use coupon code RVATLAS10 to get 10 percent off your entire order.

To listen to Jeremy interview Scott and Noah from Camco please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Click on the video player below to get a fun intro to Scott and Noah and all of the fun stuff that Camco makes–and make sure that you check out their complete library of user-friendly videos on Camco’s YouTube channel which you can find right here.

Now that you have met Scott and Noah, let’s take a look at the wide variety of products that Camco makes for winterization and winter storage.

By-Pass Kits Before adding antifreeze into your RVs plumbing systems you want to make sure that you bypass your water heater (by using a by-pass kit) so you don’t waste 6-10 gallons of antifreeze. Getting a good by-pass kit to avoid dumping antifreeze into your water heater is an absolute must. Thankfully, Camco has got us covered here with a few different options. We use the Permanent Quick Turn By-Pass Kit and it has worked incredibly well. See below for other options.

Permanent Quick Turn By-Pass Kit (#35983)Camco Supreme Permanent RV Water Heater By-Pass Kit With Brass Valves (#35953)Bypass Kit for 10 Gallon Tanks (#35963)Blow Out PlugsSome RV owners like to blow out their lines with compressed air before adding antifreeze—and some RV owners in milder climates may only blow out their lines with compressed air and skip the antifreeze entirely. That’s a personal decision for each RV owner. We like to do both here at the RV Atlas. Thankfully, when it comes to blow out plugs, Camco has the winterization gear that we need. We use Camco’s “Quick Connect Brass Blow Out Plug” but are considering upgrading to the “Blow Out Hose Kit with Ball Valve” to have a little bit more control and convenience. You can also check out a few more options at different price points just below.

Black Plastic Blow Out Plug (#36133)Quick Connect Brass Blow Out Plug (#36143)Brass Blow Out Plug With Schrader Valve (#36153)Blow Out Hose Kit with Ball Valve (#36170)Antifreeze Hand Pump Kit and Pump Converter Winterizing KitCamco also offers an Antifreeze Hand Pump and a Pump Converter which can both be very nifty products to have for winterization. The RV Hand Pump Kit allows you to manually pump RV antifreeze into your waterlines. This can be incredibly useful for RV’s like pop up campers that have water pumps that will not connect to water pump conversion kits or for RVs with water pumps that are very difficult to access.

The Pump Converter Winterizing Kit can be installed permanently with just an adjustable wrench. This will save you a step and save you time every winter for years to come. And who doesn’t want to save a little time when winterizing their rigs, right?

RV Hand Pump Kit with Fittings #36003Pump Converter Winterizing Kit (#36543)Winterization Gear for StorageWinterizing your RV’s water lines and plumbing system is not the only step you have to take when it comes to getting your RV ready for winter–though it certainly is the most important step. We also need to prepare our RV for storage–where it may be sitting unused for the long winter months. Let’s take a look at some of the affordable products that Camco makes for winter storage.

Furnace Screens for Protecting Your RV from InsectsEvery spring in The RV Atlas Group on facebook a handful of our members write posts bemoaning the fact that their furnaces or water heaters were damaged by insect nests that developed over the winter months. This is a real problem that RV owners face each spring and all year around. Damage caused to appliances from insects and insect nests can cost hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars. But thankfully, it only costs a few bucks to protect those appliances in the first place. As Ben Franklin once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” We think this quote should be emblazoned on the side of every single RV that is sold.

When it comes to protecting your rig’s appliances from flying insects–Camco has got you covered. They produce a variety of options for furnace and water heater screens including those made for Duo-therm and Suburban furnace vents and those made for Colman, Suburban, Sol-Aire, and Hydroflame furnace vents.

Check camcooutdoors.com for even more options. There are too many to list here!

Flying Insect RV Furnace Screen fits Duo-therm & Suburban Furnace vents (#42141) Flying Insect RV Furnace Screen fits Colman, Suburban, Sol-Aire, & Hydroflame furnace vents (#42140 (Model FUR 100)

Water Heater ScreensWater Heater Screens are also commonly used to protect your RV from unwanted pests and flying insects. Camco’s “Flying Insect RV Screen” will cover a wide variety of water heater vents–see below for more details.

RV Flying Insect Screen (#42150 Model WH 200) fits Suburban furnace vents; models 8535, 8531, 8525, 8940 DC, 8940 AC, Suburban louvered water heater as well as most battery vents.Camco’s Moisture Absorbing BeadsFlying insects are not the only thing we need to guard against when it comes to winter storage. Moisture can also become a major problem in an RV that is stored away for months at a time. Camco’s “Dehumidifier Moisture Absorber” does a great job at keeping an RV dry on the inside when it is in storage. Money saving refills are also available for purchase.

44280: Refillable 10.5 oz bucket (and refill pack, 44284)Camco’s Odor AbsorbersBad odors can also develop during winter storage–and they can occasionally be pretty darn hard to get rid of when they do. Once again, we recommend an ounce of prevention instead of a pound of cure. Camco makes a variety of products that will help you combat odors and keep them at bay. We like their Moso Bamboo Charcoal Odor Absorber Bags for the RV in general and their Fridge Odor Absorber for our refrigerator. Both are affordable and effective–our favorite combo when it comes to winterization gear. The Moso Odor Absorbers also come in a variety of shapes and sizes so its easy to find a bag that will fit like a glove in your RV.

Moso Bamboo Charcoal Odor Absorber Bags (#44273, #44271, #44270)Fridge Odor Absorber (#44180)Camco’s Refrigerator Door Props and StaysKeeping your refrigerator door propped open is also a must when your rig is in storage. Thankfully, Camco has the winterization gear that we need to solve this problem as well. Both the “Adjustable Refrigerator Door Prop” and the “Refrigerator Door Stay” will get the job done. We use the “stay” and it has worked great for us for several years.

Adjustable Refrigerator Door Prop 44105 and the Refrigerator Door Stay (#45641)Winterization Gear: RV Covers for Winter StorageSome RV owners cover their rigs during the winter months and some don’t. We use our rig in the winter so we don’t cover it. But, admittedly, it does take on some additional wear and tear because we don’t cover it. More specifically–we have noticed that our front caps fade more quickly than they would if we had covered our rigs for the winter. If you don’t use your RV during the winter months we do recommend that you get a good cover for it. Camco has a huge lineup of RV covers for just about every type of rig imaginable. Check out their lineup of RV covers right here.

Winterizing your RV doesn’t have to be a sad event. After all, you are not storing it away permanently, you are just protecting it during its winter slumber so that it’s ready for adventure next spring.

You can still camp in an RV that has been winterized anyway. But that is a story for another blog post.

See You at the Campground!

–Jeremy and Stephanie

The post RV Winterization Gear Guide With Scott and Noah from Camco Outdoors appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We have long believed that Michigan is one of the most underrated camping states in America. It rarely pops to the top of bucket lists among tent campers and RV owners–but it should. To read more about why we think Michigan is an underrated state for camping please click here.

Michigan’s state park system, and the campgrounds within that system, are often excellent–and that is certainly one of the main reasons why we think the state is so great for campers of all kinds. Van Buren State Park is a gem among gems–and it is certainly one of the most popular state parks in the system. The park is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and is just a short drive or bike ride away from the charming waterfront town of South Haven. Thankfully the campground is also very good and can accommodate tent campers and larger RVs.

To listen to Jeremy interview Anna Michels about Van Buren State Park and the best things to do in nearby South Haven and St. Joseph, please click on the media player above, or subscribe to the The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Anna is the Editorial Director of Sourcebooks and Poisoned Pen Press and she is Jeremy and Stephanie’s lead editor for all of the Where Should We Camp Next? books. She is also an avid backpacker and tent camper.

All photos by Anna Michels. Blog post adapted from her notes.

Location of Van Buren State ParkVan Buren State Park is located on the lovely and windswept shores of Lake Michigan near the southwestern corner of the state not too far from the Indiana border. This park is incredibly popular because of its beauty but also because it is a short drive away from two major American cities. Chicago is just two hours away, and Detroit is only three hours away. The entire South Haven area is definitely a a terrific option for a quick getaway (or a week’s vacation) for the citizens of those two great cities.

Overview of Van Buren State ParkThe major feature of Van Buren State Park is its mile long sandy beach that is rimmed by sandy dunes. Visitors love swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing here. There are also woodland trails for hiking and biking, and plenty of opportunities for bird watching. South Haven is only three miles and visitors can hop on the Van Buren Trail and ride their bikes directly into the city on a paved, scenic path. Bike rentals are available in a variety of locations around the park.

Van Buren State Park is located just north of the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant. This may not sound appealing but it does not keep this park from being incredibly beautiful and well-worth a visit.

The Campground at Van Buren State ParkThe campground at Van Buren State Park has five loops with over 200 total sites. Campsites cost approximately $35 dollars per night and they all have either 30 or 50amp electrical hookups. Most of the sites here are gravel–though some, like the one pictured above, are paved. Van Buren is more big rig friendly than many other state parks. The roads here are easy to navigate and most of the sites are easy to back into. Some sites here offer privacy and shade–while others are out in the open. Choose wisely when you pick your site.

There are two bathhouse here with restrooms and showers and both of them are very new and very clean. The dump station has potable water and two lanes so it does not get too backed up around checkout time. There are two very basic sand playgrounds here and very few other amenities. Most campers are here to enjoy the beach and head into South Haven for food, shopping, and family fun.

When Anna was camping at Van Buren there was a very nice mix of RV’s including pop-ups, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and larger motorhomes.

Anna’s group was “very tent-focused” and felt that they were surrounded by more RVs than than they would have liked. While many state park campgrounds in Michigan and across the country are very tent-friendly, Van Buren does seem to be more popular among RV owners. This is probably because the sites are large enough for them and the roads are easy to navigate.

Cell service is spotty in the campground

Enjoying the Beach at Van Buren State ParkThe beach at Van Buren State Park is sandy and has plenty of room for spreading out and enjoying the sun and the sand–but when you get into the water there are some rocks. Anna recommends wearing water shoes when swimming here. A section of the beach is dog-friendly.

The beach in South Haven is sandy on the bottom if you really don’t like swimming with rocks in the water.

Anna enjoyed the campground at Van Buren State Park and loved the park itself. But her favorite part about camping in Van Buren is its close proximity to “some wonderful southwestern Michigan beach towns, including South Haven (a 10-minute drive away) and St. Joseph (a 25-minute drive away).”

Best Things to do in South HavenAnna and her family enjoyed blueberry picking ( which is in season June-September) and recommends Bumbleberry Acres and DeGrandchamp Farms. They also enjoyed a waterfront lunch at Admiral Jacks while they were in town.

They also truly loved the Michigan Maritime Museum for its interesting exhibits great kids’ activity room. The boat tours here are also highly recommended and boat tickets include are included with museum admission. Make sure to check out these boats if you go:

• • • Friends Good Will, a replica 1810 top sail sloop, looks like a pirate ship - Lindy Lou, electric-powered replica river launch - USCG Motor Lifeboat 36460, built in 1941, starred in the Disney film The Finest Hours - Merry Time, 1929 Chris-Craft Cadet

The South Haven Lighthouse (which was originally lit in 1872 and is still operational) is also well-worth visiting and is a very popular stop in town. This historic lighthouse is at the end of a long concrete pier and is a short downhill walk from the downtown area. The keeper’s house is on shore nearby, and was also built in 1872, and was transferred to the city for preservation in 2000. The Michigan Maritime Museum has renovated the keeper’s house and it now serves as a research library.

Also make sure to check out North Beach and South Beach while you are in town and plan on eating great food and drinking great beer in downtown South Haven. There are plenty of good options for both in this charming and classic Lake Michigan shore town.

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“Stand at Cumberland Gap and watch the procession of civilization, marching single file–the buffalo following the trail to the salt springs, the Indian, the fur-trader and hunter, the cattleraiser, the pioneer farmer–and the frontier has passed by”

(Frederick Jackson Turner, 1893).

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park (24,000 acres) is located where the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia meet. This park and the area around it is packed with history, culture, great food and drink–and lots of options for outdoor adventure. This historical park also contains a very good campground called Wilderness Road Campground. Overall, this historical park and the region around it are excellent for an RV vacation and it is something of an under-the-radar gem.

Our guide to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park and Wilderness Road Campground is our longtime correspondent, Casita Dean May. To listen to Jeremy interview Dean click on the media player above, or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows. Or read right here and dive into Casita Dean May’s extensive show notes.

Location of Cumberland Gap National Historical ParkIf flying the closest airports would be Knoxville (85 miles away) and Lexington (130 miles away) along the I-75 corridor. By car, take Exit 25 East to Corbin and the park is about 50 miles southeast. The park is adjacent to Middlesboro, KY. Interestingly, the campground is actually located in Ewing, Virginia!

Wilderness Road CampgroundWilderness Road Campground is a public campground located inside a national historical park. Cumberland Gap is one of 424 National Park Service units and one of 63 national historical parks. Wilderness Road Campground contains 154 sites, including 41 sites that have 20, 30, & 50 amp electricity. Loops B & C contain the 41 sites with electric while Loops A, D, E, F, & G have no hookups.

Most Wilderness Road Campground sites are wooded with partial to full shade. Located in the Appalachian Mountains, the park and the campground are within the surrounding hills and mountains and much of the campground is located on a gentle slope with many of the sites having a gentle to moderate slope.

Reservations can be made on-line via reservation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Non-electric sites are $18 per night. Electric sites are $24 per night. Finding open campsites at Wilderness Road Campground is fairly easy–especially if you have a bit of flexibility.

Other site details include:

• Most sites will accommodate rigs up to 32’.
• There are few sites large enough for big rigs.
• However, some sites are small enough to accommodate only smaller RVs.
• Sites are back-in.

There is no WiFi service but cell service was fine (AT&T). The park rangers and staff were pleasant inside the campground. The staff and rangers at the Visitors Center were amazing!!! There are recreational and educational activities, particularly at the visitor center. Highlights include guided interpretive walks, interpretive programs, and hiking, biking, photography, birding, caving, scenic drives, etc. Cumberland Gap National Historic Park truly has a wonderful visitor center.

There are three bath houses located throughout the park with potable water access at each bath house as well. There is also a dump station with potable water at the entrance to the campground.

A Few Insider Insider Details About Wilderness Road Campground

• C-4 is a pull-through site.
• Recommend Loops B & C with electric hookups.
• Many of the non-electric sites were a bit too primitive (personal preference).

Regional Highlights and ActivitiesThere are many things to see and do in the greater Cumberland Gap National Historical Park area. Here are some recommended regional highlights and activities.

• Cumberland National Historical Park (https://www.nps.gov/cuga/index.htm )
  • Crossing the Great Mountain Barrier: A Brief History
    • From Alabama to Canada the Appalachian Mountains rise in ridges between the eastern seaboard and the continent’s interior.
    • In the days of travel by foot, horse, or boat, heading west meant few crossing points through the mountains from the eastern seaboard.
    • By the mid-18th century, explorers “discovered” well worn trails used by bison and American Indians through Cumberland Gap.
    • This “discovery” opened the great west of the Ohio Valley!
    • Dr. Thomas Walker
    • First white man to explore the gap.
    • Hired to stake out an 800,000 acre grant beyond the Blue Ridge.
    • He led the first expedition through the gap in 1750 which he named Cumberland Gap.
    • Daniel Boon was commissioned in 1775 to blaze a road through the gap.
    • His trace evolved into the Wilderness Road.
    • This road was the primary way west until 1810.
    • From 1780 to 1810, 300,000 people crossed the gap heading west!
    • Eastbound traffic included crops, corn whiskey and herds of livestock.
    • As canals, railroads, and well-engineered wagon roads developed in the first half of the 1800s, Cumberland Gap declined in importance.
    • During the Civil War, both the north and south considered Cumberland Gap strategic.
    • By the 20th century Cumberland Gap remained a major economic artery for the Appalachian region.
    • Cumberland Gap National Historical Park was authorized by Congress in 1940.
    • U.S. 25E (1920s) initially passed through the Gap compromising the historic scene.
    • Cumberland Gap Tunnel opened in 1996 restoring the historic landscape of the gap area to the way it looked in 1810 (as of 2002).
  • Facilities
    • The Visitor Center is only a short drive (3 miles) from the campground
    • America’s National Parks Store
    • There is also the Daniel Boone Visitor & Information Center
  • Natural Features:
    • Cumberland Gap
    • Carved out by eons of wind & water.
    • V-shaped notch or gap in the wall of the Appalachian Mountains
    • Natural low-point created a crossing for:
      • Bison and other animals
      • Native Americans
      • European explorers & early pioneers
      • Over 300,000 settlers crossed the gap to journey “west”.
    • White Rocks that tower 500’ over the surrounding area
      • Eastern part of the park
      • Possible to hike to the top via Ridge Trail or Civic Park Trail
    • Sand Cave (reached by trail only)
    • Skylight Cave (reached by trail only)
    • Gap Cave
    • Chimney Rock
    • Pinnacle Overlook
      • Elevation 2,440’
      • View 3 states (Kentucky, Virginia, & Tennessee)
    • More than 14,000 acres managed as wilderness
  • Recreation
    • 85 miles of hiking and backpacking trails
      • Hiking Trails
        • https://www.nps.gov/cuga/planyourvisit/upload/GUIDE-TO-DAY-HIKES.pdf
      • Stand in 3 states at one time!
      • Hike along Cumberland Gap
      • Hike to the top of the Pinnacle
      • Hike to caves White Rocks
      • Hike to see Civil War history
    • Backcountry camping (5 sites)
    • Horseback riding (17 miles along the ridge connecting the Pinnacle to White Rocks).
    • Guided tours, hikes, and programs:
      • Pioneer and Civil War Living History demonstrations.
      • Guided tours of Gap Cave (fee)
        • 2 hour tour
        • 1 mile tour
        • 3 levels and 183 steps
        • Reservations recommended
      • Guided tours of the Historic Hensley Settlement (fee)
        • 3.5 hour tour
        • 1 mile walk through the settlement
        • Reservations recommended
  • Other Local Attractions
    • Kentucky Coal Mining Museum
      • http://kycoalmuseum.southeast.kctcs.edu/
    • Abraham Lincoln Museum
      • https://www.lmunet.edu/abraham-lincoln-library-and-museum/index
    • Pine Mountain State Resort Park
      • https://parks.ky.gov/pineville/parks/resort/pine-mountain-state-resort-park
    • Wilderness Road State Park
      • https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/wilderness-road

Surrounding Area, Restaurants, Beer & Coffee:

• Middlesboro, KY (population 9,400)
  • Middlesboro is built entirely within a meteorite impact crater which is 3.6 miles across.
  • It is home to the oldest, continuously played golf course in the eastern U.S., at the Middlesboro Country Club.
  • Lee Majors, the Six Million Dollar Man, grew up in Middlesboro.
• Harrogate, TN (population 4,400)
  • College town!
  • Lincoln Memorial University
    • https://www.lmunet.edu/
    • Lincoln Memorial University grew out of love and respect for Abraham Lincoln and today honors his name, values, and spirit.
• Cumberland Gap, TN (population 490!)
  • Cute little town!!!

Great Restaurants Around Cumberland Gap National Historical Park* The Dutch Treat Country Store in Rose Hill, VA * Haymaker BBQ in Harrogate, TN * The Frosty Mug Drive-In in Harrogate, TN * Ike’s Artisan Pizza & Craft Beer in Middlesboro, KY * Shade’s Cafe & Steakhouse in Middlesboro, KY * Conley’s Drive-In in Middlesboro, KY * Angelo’s in the Gap Italian Restaurant in Cumberland Gap, TN * Nineteen19 Grill & Bar in Cumberland Gap, TN * Gap Creek Coffee House and Cafe in Cumberland Gap, TN

Closing Comment On Cumberland Gap National Historical Park“What a road have we passed! Certainly the worst on the whole continent, even in the best weather, yet, bad as it was, there were four or five hundred crossing the rude hills. . . men, women, and children, almost naked, paddling bare-foot and bare-legged along, or labouring up the rocky hills, whilst those who are best off have only a horse for two or three children to ride at once”

(from the journal of Francis Asbury, 1803).

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The 2023 Hershey RV Show is in the books, and while it did not shatter attendance records, it was the most exciting Hershey show we have ever been to. Attendees for the show were enthusiastic, the RV product on display was comprehensive and varied, and there were dozens of excellent vendors inside the Giant Center.

And for the very first time The RV Atlas had its very own booth to sell our Where Should We Camp Next? series of books. It was awesome catching up with friends and fans of our podcast and we had a blast selling and signing books at our own table. We spent time with friends both old and new and we sold out of books a full day before the show ended. Next year we will definitely be back–and we will definitely bring more books.

Our good friend Patrick Botticelli from New Jersey Outdoor Adventures was also back at the Hersey RV Show at the Airstream display. Patrick is a longtime friend of the podcast and he has been on the show several times. He has made guest appearances about his 1961 Airstream Bambi renovation project and 8 Insane DIY Van Builds from his widely popular YouTube channel among other topics. We invited him back on the show to talk share his top picks from this year’s Hershey show. We also asked him to interview Jeremy about his top picks from the show! Thankfully he agreed to do both.

To listen to Jeremy and Patrick share their 2023 Hershey RV Show highlights, please click on the media player above, or subscribe to the RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows. Or read on right here for a brief overview of their picks with links to the manufacturers.

Patrick’s top picks from the 2023 Hershey RV Show1. Airstream Flying Cloud 25FB

The addition of the stunning rear hatch on the Airstream Flying Cloud 25FB was a real show stopper at the 2023 Hershey RV Show. It was Patrick’s top pick from the Airstream display this year–and its easy to see why.

1. The Barefoot by nüCamp

Patrick also loved the Barefoot by nüCamp. This retro-chic camper is adorable on the outside and is filled with smart storage solutions on the inside. What’s not to love?

Northern Lite Truck CampersNorthern Lite Truck Campers are not cheap–but the quality shines through and through. The interiors are also surprisingly elegant and comfortable. Jeremy and Patrick were both impressed with their display at the 2023 Hershey RV Show.

The Coleman Lantern LT17FBAt first we thought Patrick’s choice of the Coleman Lantern LT 17FB was an odd choice for a top pick at the 2023 Hershey RV Show. But after listening to his explanation on The RV Atlas podcast–it made perfect sense. Patrick loved the $12,995 show price because it provides a great option for families just getting into the RV lifestyle. Prices have exploded in recent years and its good to see an RV with a true entry-level price. We couldn’t agree more.

Jeremy’s Top Picks from the 2023 Hershey RV ShowsSequoia + Salt Conversion VansJeremy has been a big fan of Sequoia + Salt’s Conversion Vans for several years–and he finally got to see one in person at the 2023 Hershey RV Show. It did not disappoint. The interiors were even more stunning in person than they are on social media. This up and coming company is based out of Manasquan NJ, and they have a very bright future ahead of them. Check them out here.

The Forest River NOBO SeriesJeremy has long been a fan of the NOBO line of travel trailers by Forest River. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes but the entire series is tied together with a “great outdoors” themed graphics package and equipment options that make NOBO great for boondocking. Find out more here.

Grand Design Imagine XLS 25DBEJeremy loves it when RV manufacturers come up with new bunkhouse floorplans–as opposed to putting out the same handful of options year after year. The Grand Design Imagine XLS 25DBE switches up the same-old-same-old corner bunk floorpan by putting two heated massage chairs across from the dinette table–which makes the seating a bit more social and communal than the typical set up with the dinette and couch on the slideout. This allows families to talk to one another and face each other while hanging out in their RV. A novel idea, right?

Palomino Backpack Truck Camper HS-2912

A truck camper with a rear patio? Sign us up now. We just need a one ton truck with an 8 foot bed first. This beast would look great at the campground or at the beach. We have never stepped foot in such a spacious truck camper before with both inside and outside living areas. It also has an outdoor kitchen to boot!

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Do you believe in the paranormal, or are you a total skeptic? Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you may find haunted history interesting. Planning a haunted RV road trip from New York to New Orleans can take you to some of the nation’s most fascinating supernatural spots, with some terrific campgrounds nearby.

Shannon Minner is a member of a local ghost hunting team in Tennessee and an avid RVer. She has combined these passions and rounded up six spooky locations between New York and New Orleans—and beyond—and campground recommendations near each. You can do this road trip as one mega tour, or you can do short spurts to each spooky site.

If you can combine your visit with a Halloween-themed weekend at the campground, even better!

To hear the full interview with Shannon and to learn more about these ideas for a haunted RV road trip, click play on the media player above or look for The RV Atlas wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

Questions to Ask Before Booking a Ghost TourBefore you set out to explore some haunted history, here are some questions to ask before booking a tour:

1. Is the tour appropriate for your audience? If you are traveling with children, make sure the tour isn’t for adults only, and check the scare level to make sure it’s okay for your group.
2. Are you traveling with anyone with mobility issues? Some tours have more physical demands than others.
3. How long is the tour?
4. Is it a walking tour or a tour that provides transportation?
5. Does the tour provide any ghost hunting tools? Is there an extra cost to use them?
6. What is the cancellation policy? A lot of tours will go out rain or shine.

New York’s Fort William Henry Located in Lake George, NY, Fort William Henry was built in 1755 and was the site of a brutal attack that left many dead. Tour the museum to see the table where gruesome surgeries were performed. As Shannon says, “When you know the history of a place, it’s hard to believe it’s NOT haunted.”

The Fort William Henry museum is set up as a living history museum, with reenactments bringing colonial life and the French and Indian War to life. Both traditional daytime tours and “haunted” nighttime tours are offered. You can even join a paranormal investigation.

Fort William Henry has an awesome campground nearby. If you are staying in Lake George, check out Moose Hillock Camping Resort. We’ve talked about this one again and again! It offers large wooded sites and a super cool pool that even has a bit of a spooky theme. Fall is an especially fun time to visit, with themed Halloween weekends.

Pennsylvania’s Eastern State PenitentiaryOne of the nation’s most famous and most expensive prisons is located in Philadelphia. Even without claims of paranormal activity, the Eastern State Penitentiary is an interesting stop, known for its architecture and history. The notorious Al Capone was once a prisoner here!

Eastern State Penitentiary offers traditional daytime tours, with a self-guided audio option. During the fall season, the Nighttime Halloween Festival is a special treat for those who want to amp up their experience with five haunted houses located within the prison walls.

For a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary and the greater Philadelphia area, consider a stay at the Philadelphia South/Clarksboro KOA. Though it’s technically in New Jersey, it has easy access to Philly. Plus, it’s a great family-friendly campground with a scenic pond and tons of activities.

Paranormal Attractions in Florida’s Key WestTo find the next set of attractions, you’ll have to head south—waaay south—to the southern tip of Florida. While Key West might be known for its hip vibe and natural beauty, the paranormal sites here are not to be missed.

Old Town Trolley’s Ghost & Gravestones Tour offers a fun way to explore the haunted history of Key West. The trolley takes you to various sites and allows you to hop off and explore. For an extra fee, you can borrow a K2 meter, which measures electricity. You might even meet Robert the Doll! Make sure to follow the rules (click play on the podcast player above to hear tales of this haunted doll).

There are several great campground in Key West. Consider the Bluewater Key Luxury RV Resorts, which is just 20 minutes away from the museum. You can bring your own watercraft and stay in the lap of luxury with your very own tiki hut. Further out, the Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina, a part of the Thousand Trails network, offers 400 sites and is surrounded on three sides by water.

The Haunted History of New OrleansNo haunted RV road trip would be complete without a visit to New Orleans! The city’s rich culture, history, and architecture make it a fascinating place to explore, with or without spirits. The connections to voodoo add to the mysterious ambiance. A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a good way to reach several locations in the city. New Orleans also hosts tons of haunted pub crawls and an adults-only true crime and voodoo tour.

There are many ways to explore the haunted history of New Orleans. Take a tour of the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, which is the city’s oldest. You cannot enter without a guide, so make sure to plan ahead. Visit the grave of a voodoo priestess—many believe she still grants wishes. This is just a small taste of the city’s spooky sites.

While it doesn’t seem like New Orleans would have a scenic state park nearby, it actually does. The Bayou Segnette State Park in Westwego, Louisiana, offers an easy to commute into the city and large spacious RV sites with water and electric hookups. You’ll also find beautiful cabins on the water. If you’d rather stay right in town, the French Quarter RV Resort gets great reviews. It is within walking distance of the city and has a pool.

Don’t forget that you can hear more about this haunted RV road trip by clicking play on the media player above or by looking for The RV Atlas podcast.

Spooky Sites in San Antonio, TexasSan Antonio is considered an extremely haunted city thanks to the history of the missions, where many battles–and deaths–happened. The Sisters Grimm Ghost Tour offers a great chance to experience the haunted history. A stop at The Alamo is also a must, of course.

Or, you can stay in a supposedly haunted hotel while in San Antonio! Check out the Menger Hotel, the Emily Morgan Hotel, or the Holiday Inn Express, which is located in the Old Bexar County Jail.

If you want to camp nearby, check out the San Antonio KOA. It’s convenient to the city and offers all kinds of family activities. Sun Outdoor’s Traveler’s World is another top choice.

Michigan’s Northern Michigan AsylumWhile Traverse City might not come to mind as a spooky spot, at least one attraction in the city has a haunted history. The former Northern Michigan Asylum, now known as the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, is a spot with a dark past. In the late 1800s and beyond, people with mental illnesses were subjected to all kinds of awful “treatments,” including lobotomies, which caused psychic harm and deaths.

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons offers a Guided Historic Walking Tour of the interior and exterior, including some historic structures and the old steam tunnels below the ground. The Asylum Twilight Tour is a popular 90-minute guided walking tour on the weekends that accentuates the paranormal.

The Timber Ridge All Seasons Resort offers yurts and RV sites with full hook-ups and shaded sites. It is open all year and has fun amenities and activities, including an RC track, dodge-ball court, and heated pool.

Pro Tips for Paranormal ToursShannon shares these terrific tips for getting the most out of a ghost tour, if you truly are looking for the supernatural:

1. Use your cell phone camera to take pictures. Always take at least two pictures, back-to-back so you can compare them. Do you notice anything in one photo that isn’t in another? Do watch out for “orbs”. You can easily discount many of these as being caused by bugs or dust. When you’re exploring these old locations a lot of dust and dirt that get stirred up.
2. Use the “Voice Memos” app on your phone to capture EVP’s. EVP stands for “electronic voice phenomena.” You’re listening for spirits to communicate with you by asking a question and then pausing. Record small bursts, about 5-10 minutes, and then listen back to see if you capture anything.
3. Many ghost tours rent K2 meters, which allow you to detect electricity. Supposedly, spirits can use energy to set off the light displays on these meters. Put your cellphone into airplane mode to avoid interference.
4. Even if you aren’t on a “ghost tour,” you can use these tools to see if you capture any paranormal activities as long as you are respectful of the tour.

We want to thank Shannon for sharing this amazing haunted RV road trip with us! What a fantastic roundup of stops! Make sure to look for Shannon on Instagram as @thecampinglibrarian to follow her book recommendations and travels—both haunted and not! All of the photos in this post came from her, and we thank her for sharing those.

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Fall may very well be the best time of year for cooking at the campground. The crisp air and cool nights make it perfect for firing up your camp stove or cooking over a live fire. When October and November roll around we love to break out our skillets and Dutch ovens from Lodge Cast Iron and spend time cooking with family and friends in the great outdoors.

If you are a veteran camper you almost certainly own a few pieces from Lodge Cast Iron that you use at home or at the campground. If you are a new camper you should certainly consider getting a few pieces from Lodge to start a camp kitchen of your own.

This week on the RV Atlas podcast (and here on the blog) we are talking about building a starter set of cast iron pieces and great fall recipes from Lodge Cast Iron. Our guest is Kris Stubblefield, who works as a chef for the iconic Tennessee company. Kris appeared on the show several years ago when Lodge debuted its Blacklock Collection.

To listen to Jeremy interview Kris about building a camp kitchen and cooking up great fall recipes at the campground click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite shows. Or keep reading to see his recommendations for great gear and fall recipes from Lodge!

Great Camping Gear from Lodge Cast IronBuilding your first camp kitchen does not have to break the bank. A few essential items will go a long way. Here are 5 pieces of cookware from Lodge that will work perfectly as a starter set for your next camping adventure.

Lodge Cast Iron: 12 Inch SkilletChef Kris recommends Lodge’s 12″ skillet as the ultimate starter piece for an outdoor camp kitchen. This skillet is durable, affordable, and has plenty of space for cooking up delicious meals for the whole family.

Lodge Cast Iron: 3.2 Quart Combo CookerIf you are looking to get the most bang for you buck when starting a camp kitchen then Kris recommends getting Lodge’s budget priced 3.2 Quart Combo Cooker. This set gives you a standard skillet, a deep skillet, and a Dutch oven for one affordable price.

Lodge’s 15” Carbon Steel Dual Handle PanKris considers Lodge’s 15″ Carbon Steel Dual Handle Pan to be the perfect paella pan. This lightweight piece heats up quickly and is perfect for dishes with meat, seafood, or even just veggies and rice.

Lodge Cast Iron: 12 Inch 6 Quart Camp Dutch OvenIf you are looking for a more traditional Dutch Oven that is built with camping in mind then Kris recommends Lodge’s 12 inch 6 Quart model. Picture yourself making a cobbler or stew in one of these at the campground on a crisp fall night. Does camping get any better than that?

Lodge Cast Iron Kickoff GrillKris also loves Lodge’s Cast Iron Kickoff Grill. Whether you want to grill burgers, dogs, brats, or veggies–the Kickoff Grill has got you covered!

Best Fall Recipes from Lodge Cast IronNow that you have some great recommendations for your camp kitchen it is time to start meal planning. Here are five of Kris’s favorite recipes from Lodge’s legendary collection.

Grilled Smash Potatoes With Warm Bacon VinaigretteYou had us at bacon on this one Kris! You can find this crowd-pleasing recipe here.

Citrus Shrimp Tacos with Avocado AioliCampground cuisine does not have to be all burgers and dogs. Try these delicious shrimp tacos next time you are cooking in the great outdoors!

Stovetop Biscuits and GravyFall is definitely a great time for comfort food and Lodge’s Stovetop Biscuits and Gravy will keep you warm and cozy on those crisp fall days!

Beer Braised Chicken with Potatoes and CarrotsLodge’s Beer Braised Chicken with Potatoes and Carrots is another crowd pleaser whether it is served at home, or at the campground. Though we prefer serving it up under a sky filled with stars. Find this delicious recipe here.

Mountain Man BreakfastLodge’s Mountain Man Breakfast recipe is the iconic company’s most popular recipe of all time. It’s easy to see why. This hearty one-pot crowd pleaser is perfect for a family camping trip.

Campfire Chile VerdeWant to turn up the heat a little bit during your next camping adventure? Then make sure you try Lodge’s Campfire Chili Verde recipe–it’s a Dutch Oven classic!

Thanks to our friends at Lodge Cast Iron and to Chef Kris for sharing such great gear recommendations and such great recipes!

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Is the future of RVing going to be electrified? The dynamic team at Lightship RV certainly thinks it will be. This startup, which is based out of San Francisco and Colorado, made an impressive debut with the launch of their L1 prototype at SXSW in Austin, Texas in March of 2023. The buzz around the L1 has continued as this all-electric travel trailer has embarked on a media tour across the American West.

Lightship may be a newcomer in the world of RVing–but the launch of their L1 travel trailer was incredibly polished–and the early feedback from consumers and media has been enthusiastic. It’s not hard to see why. The L1 is beautiful both inside and out and its power systems have the potential to be complete game changers in an industry that could certainly use a little shaking up.

Everything about Lightship RV seems to exist and operate outside of industry norms. This is no surprise when you consider that both of the company’s co-founders are Tesla alums with impressive resumes in the automotive industry. To say that they are both thinking differently about manufacturing RV’s would be an understatement. We like that they are bringing their electric vehicle expertise into the RV industry–and we also like that they both truly love road trips and camping. In fact, two epic road trips figure prominently into the origin story of Lightship.

To listen to Jeremy interview Lightship Co-Founders Ben Parker and Toby Kraus please click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your favorite shows.

Meet the Co-Founders of Lightship RVLightship Co-Founders Ben Parker and Toby Kraus

Ben Parker is the Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Lightship. Before the pandemic started Ben set out on a 6,000 mile road trip across the American West (in a Winnebago Class C) to do some soul searching and business research into RV culture. He incorporated Lightship from the road that very summer.

Toby Kraus is the CEO and Co-Founder of Lightship and he cut his teeth in the EV industry with both Tesla and Proterra. Toby’s background is in both engineering and economics and he, just like Ben, is a lover of the great outdoors.

Ben and Toby worked at Tesla at the same time–but they did not know each other during those years. They were introduced later through their mutual Tesla network and quickly discovered that they wanted to work together and bring Lightship to life. They met for the first time in real life just minutes before departing on a road trip with a rented RV. They had a blast on the road trip and ran into a bit of trouble as well. You can read about that story here.

Say Hello to the Lightship L1Lightship’s first product, which has not gone into production at the time of this writing, is the Lightship L1. This is a travel trailer unlike any other we have seen before–and it certainly has the potential to change the RV industry forever. We thought we would like the L1 and have been following Lightship’s story very closely–but after taking a deep dive into the unit and its most promising features we think its fair to say that we are infatuated. Let’s take an initial look at some of our favorite features.

Our Favorite Features on the Lightship L1Road Mode and Camp ModeThe Lightship L1 almost looks like two different RV’s with two different personalities. When the L1 is compressed down into “Road Mode” it is sleek and aerodynamic with a design that minimizes MPG loss when towing. When it is opened up into “Camp Mode” (with the touch of a button) the interior becomes spacious and filled with light. The L1 has an impressive 7’6″ of interior height that helps create an uncrowded living space with plenty of room for kicking back and relaxing in an open and airy environment.

Aerodynamics and Range AssistThe Lightship L1’s Range Assist may be its most intriguing feature. Range Assist is an electric powertrain that the company claims will allow the trailer to propel itself and achieve near-zero range or efficiency loss for the tow vehicle. According to Lightship this means that “a 300-mile range electric vehicle (EV) used to tow the L1 remains a 300-mile range EV, and a 25-mpg gas truck remains a 25-mpg gas truck.”

Seven Days of Off-Grid CapabilityFinal specs on the solar panels and battery bank have not been made public yet–but Lightship is claiming that the L1 while have 7 days of boondocking ability with the appliances in use. This is impressive and will certainly be appealing to those that love to camp without hookups on public land.

Panoramic WindowsThe interior height of the L1 when in “Camp Mode” allows for an impressive array of windows that flood the coach with natural light. The only RV that we have seen with such beautiful windows is an Airstream–and in an Airstream those windows do not wrap all the way around the coach. The Lightship L1’s windows wrap all the way around–giving campers a panoramic view of their campsite if they want it. The windows are not closed with curtains–instead they have a privacy mode that can be turned on with the touch of a button.

Convertible Lounge/Sleeping AreaThe convertible lounge and sleeping area in the L1 is stylish and practical–and it is fairly easy to convert back and forth. Two adults and two small children can sleep on the lounge when it is converted and Lightship will also offer drop down bunks that will be mounted to the ceiling that will be able to sleep two more. So the company is saying that the L1 will sleep 4-6 people depending on how it is configured.

Indoor and Outdoor KitchensThe Lightship L1 has a spacious interior kitchen with an electric cooktop and an outdoor kitchen that looks very straightforward and practical. The storage below the interior kitchen is also thoughtful–but owners may also need to use some of it for their clothing and gear. The kitchen includes a dishwasher–which is a brilliant touch that will certainly please those campers that dislike washing dishes at the campground.

Spacious Spa-Styled Rear BathroomThe bathroom at the rear of the Lightship L1 runs across the entire coach and is very spacious for a trailer that is under 30 feet long. It has a shower head that is mounted to the ceiling and plenty of thoughtful storage touches and attractive design features. The rear mirror also flips up and allows for an “almost” outdoor shower experience if you are camping in a private location.

This is just an initial look at the Lightship L1. There is plenty more to learn about this potentially game-changing RV--and we are here for it. We are rooting for the company’s success and will continue to cover them on our podcast and here on our website. For a complete tour of the L1 with Lightship RV co-founder Ben Parker check out the video below.

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This is part two of an epic two-part series about RVing in Newfoundland with Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial on the Road. In this guest-post (and on the RV Atlas podcast) Gretchen takesRead More

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The island of Newfoundland didn’t officially become a part of Canada until 1949, and between its independent history and its geographic isolation, it feels like a whole different world perhaps more than anywhere else in North America. Visitors can see whales and icebergs without even leaving shore, explore both charming fishing villages and the relatively bustling capital of St. John’s, hike the rugged yet accessible northernmost stretch of the Appalachians, and enjoy remarkably close encounters with Atlantic puffins.But planning an epic RV trip to Newfoundland trip can also be a bit overwhelming. My family recently spent five weeks in Newfoundland, so I’m here to share tips on handling the logistical challenges and putting together an itinerary that hits all the highlights of this amazing island.

This is a guest post by podcast correspondent Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial on the Road. To listen to Gretchen and Jeremy talk about her trip to Newfoundland please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your shows.

Planning an RV Trip to Newfoundland

Newfoundland is still something of an undiscovered destination for a lot of people, particularly in the US. I lost count of how many times I told someone we were going to Newfoundland only to be met with a sheepish admission that they had no idea where Newfoundland even was. Planning a Newfoundland trip can feel much more like starting from scratch than planning a trip to a more well-trodden destination does. So I’ve put together a few tips and Newfoundland details that are good to know in advance to make planning and traveling a little easier.

The tourism folks in Newfoundland put out some of the most helpful marketing material I’ve ever encountered. They’ll send you a very nicely done and extremely thorough printed guide, or you can stick with the handy interactive map on their website. Once you’re on the island, there are several visitor information centers scattered around where you can get in-person touring tips from the super friendly staff.

A lot of first time visitors underestimate Newfoundland’s size and expect to be able to cover the whole island in a short vacation. But it’s actually about the size of Pennsylvania, with so much to see that you could easily spend months exploring and still miss things. If you try to squeeze too much into too short of a trip you risk only seeing things from a moving vehicle. If you only have a week or two to spend in Newfoundland, consider sticking with one area and leaving the rest for another trip.

When Should You Take an RV Trip to Newfoundland?Finding the best time to travel to Newfoundland is trickier than it might appear. The obvious answer is “summer,” but your trip will be quite different depending on which part of summer you choose. June is iceberg season, but the weather is still quite iffy and some of the places that cater to tourists won’t be open for the season yet. Whale viewing is best in July and August. We hear the weather in September is lovely, but by then migratory animals like whales and puffins are likely to have moved on. So unless you can stick around all summer, you’ll need to think about what you most want to see and pick your dates accordingly.

Summer weather is highly variable. We heard locals refer to June as “June-uary” because it can be so cold and windy, but uncomfortably warm temperatures in late summer aren’t uncommon, either. Rain is a frequent occurrence as well. Lots of layers is your best packing strategy.

Campgrounds and Roads in NewfoundlandCampgrounds in Newfoundland are cheap, particularly if you’re coming from the US and have the exchange rate helping you out. We regularly paid under $30 USD for water/electric sites. Boondocking is also very common and accepted. We didn’t do any, but we heard frequently that it’s okay to pull over and park overnight pretty much anywhere that doesn’t have a sign telling you not to. Gas and food are more expensive than on the mainland, but those low camping fees go a long way in making up for it.

Newfoundland roads are not great. Things are generally fine on the Trans Canada Highway, but secondary roads are plagued with potholes. Be prepared for a rough ride (and to have your alignment checked when you get home!)

Boil water advisories are common, so be prepared to encounter them at campgrounds from time to time (and consider filling up your fresh water when you DO have good water so you can use it when you don’t).

Internet access is spotty. We found that we could usually get a signal in towns, even very small ones, but often had no signal at all on the roads between towns (or in campgrounds outside of town). And, of course, if you’re coming from the US, you’ll want to check with your provider to find out how and if your plan works in Canada.

Newfoundlanders are some of the warmest, friendliest, funniest people you’ll ever meet (and they often have really charming accents, too), so make sure to take the time to chat. Most people we encountered were eager to show off their province and share tips about the best places to go and things to see.

Getting Your RV to Newfoundland

Getting your RV to Newfoundland almost always means booking a ride on a Marine Atlantic ferry from North Sydney in Nova Scotia. The ferry will take you to Port Aux Basques on the southwestern corner of Newfoundland in about seven hours or, during the summer, you can opt for the sixteen hour crossing to Argentia, on the eastern side of the island, about an hour and a half drive from St. Johns. Many people choose to arrive on one ferry, make their way across the island, and leave from the other one. We opted to take the Port Aux Basques ferry in both directions because we were traveling with our dogs and didn’t want to subject them to the longer ferry.

Our best tip for the ferry is to book early! Book as soon as you know your dates, especially if you’re hoping for a cabin. There’s no penalty for cancelling or changing as long as you do it at least 48 hours in advance, so there’s no downside to booking early even if you might need to switch things around later. We booked several months in advance but still found that the cabins were already sold out, and we had to get on the waitlist in hopes of getting one for our overnight crossing.

Ferrying Dogs on an RV Trip to NewfoundlandWe worried a good bit in advance about how our dogs would do on the ferry, but Marine Atlantic is very used to dealing with pets and provides a number of options for where your pups can stay during the crossing. The most straightforward option is to just leave your pets in your vehicle. We did this on our return crossing and came back to dogs who were happy to see us but showed no signs of distress. It’s important to note that you won’t be able to return to your vehicle to check on your pet once the boat leaves the dock. There’s also a small indoor kennel area on one of the decks; you can reserve a space here (you must bring your own crate) for your dog for a small fee. The advantage here is that you’re welcome to visit your dog as often as you like…but the strange space and possible presence of other noisy dogs might make your pet anxious.

The third and newest option is renting a pet friendly cabin. This is when booking early becomes especially important, as these cabins are both limited in number and very popular. We were lucky enough to get off the waitlist for one on our overnight crossing to Newfoundland, and I think our dogs would tell you that this was their favorite way to travel. Dogs have to remain in your cabin (and someone has to stay with them) except when walking to and from your vehicle or going to make use of the little patch of astroturf provided outside on one of the decks.

Best Things to do: Western and Central Newfoundland

We started our trip on the western side of Newfoundland since we took the ferry into Port Aux Basques. Our first campground was Grand Cordoy RV Park, just about a half hour drive from the ferry terminal. It was great that we didn’t have to deal with a long drive immediately post-ferry, and the campground is lovely with spacious full hook-up sites overlooking the water. The gift shop sells locally made crafts, and the owners will provide you with a map of a driving tour of the area when you check in.

Gros Morne National Park, about 3 hours north of the ferry, is near the top of any “best of Newfoundland” list you might come across and is worth lingering over for as long as you can. Here you’ll find the most dramatic and rugged scenery on the island as well as great wildlife spotting (I think we counted five moose while we were there). We split our stay here between two campgrounds, (NAMES OF CAMPGROUNDS) one on the south side of the park and one on the north, but it’s definitely doable to pick one base camp and day trip around the whole park.

On the south side of Gros Morne, we stopped by the park’s Discovery Centre to pick up an Xplorers book for our 10 year old (the Canadian equivalent of Junior Rangers in the US) and learn about the park’s geologic history. Then we did the easy 4 km Tablelands Trail to see the geologic history first hand. The Tablelands give you the rare opportunity to walk on rock from the Earth’s mantle; it’s a fascinating stroll through a beautiful, otherworldly landscape.

From the Tablelands it’s a short but beautiful drive to the tiny town of Trout River, where we had some ice cream, walked along the shore, and then did one of our favorite hikes of the whole trip: the Eastern Point Trail. This is an easy and short trail once you get past the steep stairs at the very beginning, but every step offers stunning ocean views from bluffs high above the little town.

Suggested Campground: We loved the aptly named Water’s Edge Campground. Like many of Newfoundland’s campgrounds, this isn’t much more than a patch of gravel along the highway, but the location and views more than make up for any shortcomings in the sites. We spent our mornings here drinking coffee while spotting whales just a few feet from us in Bonne Bay Fjord. They also offer activities like kayak rentals and boat tours. W/E sites are $35CAD.

Rocky Harbour, on the northern side of Gros Morne, is the biggest tourist town in the area, with lots of choices for shopping and restaurants. We came here one night to see the band Anchors Aweigh, who’ve been playing traditional Newfoundland music at the Ocean View Hotel several nights a week for many years. The shows often sell out and are for ages 19 and up only.

The Western Brook Pond boat tour is a very popular way to see one of Gros Morne’s glacier-carved fjords up close. Getting to the boat dock requires an easy 3 km hike, where you’ll get a preview of the spectacular views waiting for you from the boat.

Try to time a visit to Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse at low tide; from the trail by the lighthouse you can go down to the shore for excellent rock scrambling and tide pooling. The lighthouse itself houses some great exhibits, including a lot of hands-on activities for kids.

Suggested Campground: The Gros Morne/Norris Point KOA was our base camp for exploring the north side of the park. Some reviews complain about tightly packed sites, and this is true of the full hook-up sites near the office, but if you can forgo a sewer hookup, nearly all the sites in the back of the campground are huge, private, and wooded, and some of them are right on the pond. The campground offers the usual range of KOA amenities like a playground, dog park, jumping pillow, a great walking trail around the pond, and planned activities. No pool (campground pools are exceedingly rare in Newfoundland), but swimming is allowed in the pond, and there are also kayak and pedal boat rentals available. Prices range from around $40-50CDN.

The Viking Trail is a scenic drive that will take you north from Gros Morne all the way to the northernmost tip of the island. June weather kept us from making it all way to the end of the road, but we definitely hope to return one day to see the recreated Viking settlement at L’anse aux Meadows and do some whale and iceberg spotting in St. Anthony.

We did go as far as Port Au Choix, though. This little town, about two hours from Gros Morne, is home to an archaeological site where you can learn about 6000 years of human habitation in the area, and some great hiking through limestone barrens, where you can spot some fragile arctic plants that are found nowhere else in the world.

Suggested Campground: We stayed in the parking lot of the Sea Echo Motel right in town, where spots with water and electric hookups are $20CAD. Or you can go with the Oceanside RV Park, right down the street and run by the local Lions Club. Both have great ocean views and can get very windy.

Most of western Newfoundland is remote and sparsely populated, but Deer Lake and Corner Brook both offer more of the trappings of civilization, like Tim Hortons and Walmart. We spent a couple of unusually hot days in Corner Brook and loved both the air conditioning and the atmosphere at the Sugar & Dice board game cafe and at the Hew & Draw hotel restaurant. The Insectarium in Deer Lake is a fun stop and one of the few good options on this side of the island for a rainy day.

Suggested Campground: Kinsmen Prince Edward Campground is a short drive from downtown Corner Brook and offers private pull-through, full hook-up sites, a very nice bathhouse, and several nice walking trails for $40CAD.

This is part one of a two part series. In the next post Gretchen will share all of her tips for the east side of Newfoundland, Canada.

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A Huge Announcement About Our Next Book We bought our first RV over 12 years ago and it changed our lives forever. Both of us were teachers at that time and we wantedRead More

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Camping in national forests can be wonderful any time of year, but fall is extra special. As the leaves change and the temperatures cool, national forests provide a scenic backdrop for your camping adventures. But, there are some things you need to know to prepare for this unique experience, and we have all the tips and tricks you need for planning the perfect national forest camping trip this fall--or anytime!

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We are huge pickleball fans here at RV Atlas headquarters. We keep a set of paddles and balls in our garage, and in our RV. But we are rank amateurs–to say the least.Read More

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Taos offers up a taste of the Southwest in a style all its own, mixing phenomenal natural landscapes with a notable arts scene. Here's everything you need to know about what to do, where to stay, and where to eat in Taos, NM!

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Santa Fe is one of those storied towns, known for its arts, history, and culture--and the adobe architecture--all with mountain views and a national forest nearby. Find out what to see, where to stay, and where to eat!

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Linda Ly's "The National Parks Cookbook" takes its readers on a wonderful tour of the best cuisine from America's National Park Lodges.

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You've heard of house flipping, but have you heard of RV flipping? Whether you are interested in renovating used pop-up campers for profit or for personal use, we have some tips for you. Imagine buying the oldest, ugliest, cheapest RV out there and turning it into a beautiful retreat, updated with modern style and amenities.

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An Overview of North-South Lake Campground Most campers that visit North-South Lake for the first time fall in love with its fragrant wildflowers and pristine waters. The campground here is the most popularRead More

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Are you looking to up your burger game at the campground this summer? Then you need to grab a copy of The Great American Burger Book: How to Make Authentic Regional Hamburgers atRead More

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Kat Berta and her husband Alan are the co-owners of the Brattleboro North KOA Journey in southern Vermont. They purchased the property in 2019 while Kat was still in her late twenties. ToRead More

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Hiking in our amazing national parks is not just for rugged, outdoorsy types. While many hikes do require a certain amount of expertise–there are many national park hikes for kids and beginners thatRead More

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Is your husband or father an avid camper? Then chances are he would love to get a camping themed gift for Father’s Day. Thankfully we’ve got you covered with recommendations for camping giftsRead More

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Stories about America’s overcrowded National Parks pop up in the media again and again–and sometimes it does seem like everyone in the country (and from abroad) wants to visit the same five or six national parks during the same two month time period every summer.

But seasoned travelers know that our National Park Service has so much more to offer than just iconic parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Zion, Acadia and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are so many great alternatives to our busiest parks and many of them are amazing and very underrated. But where are the five most underrated national parks in the country? And where should you stay if you visit them?

We invited our friend Shellie Bailey Shah onto The RV Atlas podcast to find out more about the five most underrated National Parks in the country. To listen to her talk to us about the these amazing parks, click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows. Or just read on right here. Shellie is also our guest blogger on this very topic.

Article by Shellie Bailey-Shah

Great Sand Dunes National Park in Coloradophoto by Shellie Bailey-Shah

This park ranks as one of our favorites on this list of underrated national parks because it was just really fun for the kids. The park boasts several diverse ecosystems: grasslands, wetlands, aspen forests, and tundra, but it’s the 30-square-mile dunefield that’s the big draw here. You’ll want to start your day early here because by the afternoon, the sand temperature can reach 150°F, depending on the time of year. I’d recommend a hike to High Duneat sunrise or certainly no later than 7:30 a.m. Afterwards, it’s time for some fun. You can choose from sandboarding and sand sledding! There’s a store just outside the park that rents boards and sleds that are specially-designed for sand. Trust me, snow sleds, snowboards, round saucers, and cardboard will not work.

After an hour or so of climbing up and down the smaller dunes, you’ll be wiped out. It’s then time to head to Medano Creek at the base of the dunefield to spend the remainder of your day. This creek is a great water playground that has this phenomenon called “surge flow” — where rippling waves just appear from nowhere. Medano Creek is one of the only places in the world where that occurs. We also love Great Sand Dunes because it’s one of the few national parks that allows dogs, even on the dunefields, though you need to be mindful of the hot sand on your dog’s paws.

• To find our more about Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado check out this article over at KidTripster.com.

North Cascades National Park in Washingtonphoto by Shellie Bailey-Shah

I live in Oregon, so driving to North Cascades National Park is not that difficult. It’s located in northern Washington State along the Canadian border. I think of this park as a much less busy version of Glacier National Park. The topography here is similar to Glacier — fantastic mountain views, aquamarine alpine lakes, meadows of wildflowers and similar wildlife; we did see a bear off-trail in North Cascades. It has really challenging hiking. If if you hike high enough, just like in Glacier, you’ll find snow. My youngest son has never seen a lake he didn’t jump in, even if its partially covered in ice.

There are plenty of campgrounds to chose from here including Newhalem Creek Campgrounds and Gorge Lake Campground. We really like the little town of Winthrop. It has those wild west vibes and reminded me of Medora outside of Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

North Cascades National Park easily makes my list of most underrated national parks in the country.

Death Valley National Park in Californiaphoto by Shellie Bailey-Shah

I know that you’ve covered Death Valley in depth in a previous blog post, but I do want to cover it here as well. I think this park continues to be one of the most underrated national parks in the country. It’s surprisingly diverse and vast. We spend just two days here on our visit, and I think everyone wished that we’d had another two days to explore.

Some highlights? We enjoyed the Mosaic Canyon hike where you wind through narrow corridors of polished rock before it opens up into a wide canyon. You can also hike the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. This rather bizarre sand dune field is formed by three different types of dunes: crescent, linear, and star-shaped. Of course, Death Valley’s claim to fame is its elevation. At Badwater Basin, you’ll be standing at 282 feet below sea level, the lowest spot in North America. Turn around and look up on the hill behind the basin to spot the sea level marker. You’ll be amazed at just how low you really are!

You can drive the scenic 9-mile loop called Artist’s Drive. The surrounding hills look like they’re striped with chocolate. (Or maybe I was just hungry!) If you have extra time which unfortunately we didn’t, you can head out to the mysterious Racetrack. It’s a dry lakebed where rocks – some 700 pounds in weight – mysteriously slide, leaving behind long tracks.

So again, lots of variety! And of course, the key to visiting Death Valley is visiting during the right time of year. Early spring or late fall is the best.

Because of Death Valley’s size, I’d suggest that you stay where you play. In other words, plot out how you plan to move around the park and choose your campground or lodging according. We started our stay in the central part of the park near Mosaic Canyon and Mesquite Sand Dunes at Stovepipe Wells RV Park. Frankly it’s nothing more than a gravel parking lot with hookups, but it’s near those hikes. We also stayed at The Ranch at Furnace Creek, which was really packed and oddly laid out; its saving grace is the large pool. It’s best to get up really early, explore the park until around noon and then retreat to the pool.

To find out more about Death Valley National Park in California check out this article over at KidTripster.Com.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexicophoto by Shellie Bailey-Shah

Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico is fairly well known, but I put it on this list for two reasons: 1) in my opinion, it’s the best cave park in the system — better than Mammoth, Wind and certainly Great Basin, and 2) it’s really well run — it has a nice visitor center, fabulous gift shop and really good ranger programs.

I do think my impression of this park was influenced by a really unique opportunity that we had to go into the cave with a ranger first thing in the morning and walk around and flip all the lights on. It just made for these wow! moments. I should say the lighting is really well done in this cave, and really helps to accentuate all the features.

Lastly, you need to plan your trip so you can see all the bats exit the cave opening in the early evening. It’s quite the spectacle. There is no RV camping inside the park. We stayed at the nearest RV park, called Whites City RV Park. It was unremarkable, but that’s not why we were there.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaskaphoto by Shellie Bailey-Shah

I’ve saved my favorite for last. And while this is a drop-dead-gorgeous Alaska park, it’s really all about the experience that we had here. Wrangell-St. Elias is the country’s largest national park, 13.2 million acres. To put that in perspective, that six times the size of Yellowstone. Four major mountain ranges converge inside this park with nine of the 16 highest peak in the U.S. The word “grand” doesn’t even begin to explain it.

The park service has divided it into four areas, but we focused on the central section and the small towns of McCarthy and Kennecott. And this is where I have to admit that I wouldn’t visit this park by RV; you can’t get where I’m telling you to go by RV. It’s a 7-hour drive from Anchorage; the last 60-miles is on a teeth-chattering gravel road where you can’t go faster than 35 mph. This road ends at a footbridge where you park your car. You then board a shuttle for the last miles to Kennicott Glacier Lodge. (Note for you: Kennecott and Kennicott are the correct spellings; the article below explains why.)

This lodge has to be one of the most well-located lodges in all the national parks, overlooking 25 miles of glacier and surrounded by 14 of the highest mountain peaks on the continent. The views are absolutely stunning. The lodge consists of two buildings: the Main Lodge and the South Wing. The Main Lodge is the original structure and houses the lobby, restaurant, and 24 guest rooms. Nearly every inch of the walls are covered with fascinating memorabilia from the copper mining days. It’s important to know that the rooms are smaller than typical hotel rooms and don’t have en suite bathrooms. There are seven bathrooms and six shower rooms for shared use. For that reason, I strongly suggest staying in the more modern South Wing, which does have en suite bathrooms. The majority of guests opt for the 3-meal plan; dinner is served family-style.

On the first day, we toured the old copper mine which for the most part is still intact and has a very rich history. But on the second day, our family booked a trip with St. Elias Alpine Guides to go ice climbing, probably one of the memorable things we’ve ever done. It’s physically demanding — you walk 9 miles, 5 miles in heavy climbing boots and crampons plus you’re carrying gear. But mind you, our superhuman guide was carrying an 80-pound pack, so no complaining. So you hike from the lodge to Root Glacier and then across the moraine to your first climbing site: an impressive, 100-foot ice face. After a lesson, you grab your two ice tools and climb on!

After our second climb, our boys did something that my husband and I refused to do. They jumped into one of those sapphire blue glacial pool where the temperature was about 28-degrees. I’ve never seen them scrabble out of water so quickly! At the return trip, our boys scrambled down a sheer cliff with the guide to explore an ice cave below. They reported back that it was very cool, but at that point, my husband and I were done.

The town of McCarthy is sort of legendary in Alaska. We happened to be there on July 4, so we got to see the annual parade… so Alaskan. It runs through the town which is all of probably 6 block twice… half the town participates the first time through while the other half spectates, and then they switch for the second time. The whole thing was homespun, quirky and very patriotic.

To find out more about Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska check out this article at KidTripster.com.

Thanks so much to Shellie for sharing her list of the five most underrated national parks in the country! Make sure you listen to the corresponding RV Atlas podcast to find out even more!

Shellie Bailey-Shah is the founder of KidTripster.Com–an online family travel resource with a dedicated Outdoors section. She has written about national parks for years on that website and she has been an invaluable correspondent to the rvatlas.com and to the RV Atlas podcast. As of this July, Shellie will have visited every single national park in the country — that’s 63 for those counting! You can follow @KidTripster on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to find more of Shellie’s work.

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Are you looking for a great family campground for your big summer vacation but not sure exactly where to go? Why not check out one of the brand new Jellystone Parks mentioned below? One of them might be within striking distance of your home and all eight of them offer incredible amenities and attractions that will please the pickiest campers.

The best part is that once you are checked in to one of these Jellystone Parks you really don’t need to leave. There is plenty of fun to be had right on site–and many of the amenities, attractions, and activities can be enjoyed without an additional charge. Some of these parks have waterslides, pools, jumping pillows, paint ball, laser tag, arcades, fishing, mini golf, and Gaga Ball–and some have them all!

Our family has been camping with Yogi Bear for over a decade and we can’t wait to see him again this summer. We have never had a bad trip to Jellystone Park–and we always make great memories when we go.

You should give Jellystone Park a try this summer because we know your family will make great memories just like we have. If one of these new parks is not near you then you can check out the rest of Yogi Bear’s awesome campgrounds right here.

Jellystone Park: Androscoggin Lake, MaineThis Jellystone Park near Augusta, Maine offers up a classic camping experience with lots of modern amenities. They have a spacious heated pool with two 26 foot waterslides and a seated warming area with heated jets. Sounds pretty good, right? If you want to get back to nature you can also set up camp on their sandy lake beach and take a refreshing dip or go kayaking or fishing. Other popular attractions include inflatable water slides, jumping pillows, mini golf, and Hey Hey Rides–and those things are included with your campsite fees. If you are planning a bucket list trip to Acadia National Park this might make a perfect stop before or after heading to the coast–or you could easily just spend your entire vacation here. There is plenty of family fun to be had right at the campground.

Jellystone Park: Binghamton, New YorkLooking for a classic lake vacation in a beautiful section of New York State? Look no further than Jellystone Park in Binghamton. The swimming lake and floating obstacle course are the star of the show here and they give this campground an old-school summer camp vibe that is hard to beat. Make sure to sign up for the floating obstacle course in advance at the Ranger Station (additional fee required). Other popular attractions include the Alpine Run Hill Slide, the jumping pillow, the pedal carts, and the low ropes course. We also love that they have a pickleball court. Pickleball is all the rage at campgrounds across the country and it’s great to see many Jellystone Parks adding courts for their campers.

Jellystone Park: Clay’s Resort, OhioThis Jellystone Park is located in the rolling countryside of northeast Ohio–not too far downtown Cleveland. So heading into town for a visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or a Guardian’s baseball game is definitely an option. But once you are here you may not want to leave–because this is destination camping at its best. Their “Adventure Park” has water slides, spray cannons, and much more. The sand-bottomed man-mad swimming lake has a Wibit Challenge Obstacle Course and is also great for kayaking and paddle boarding. They also have laser tag, tennis courts, pickleball, basketball, Gaga Ball, and about 100 other things for families to do. Your kids could never, ever get bored here–and they will fall asleep the second their heads hit their pillows. They will be that tired at the end of the day. We promise.

Jellystone Park: Chincoteague Island, VirginiaThis coastal Jellystone Park boasts a terrific location just around the corner from charming downtown Chincoteague and just a short drive away from Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Maui Jack’s Waterpark is right next door to the campground and campers get exclusive discounts for admission. The water slides are really fun for kids of all ages and a few of them are really fast–and steep–so older kids and adults will also love it here. There are also kayak rentals back at the campground and good fishing. Downtown Chincoteague has lots of great restaurants and ice cream shops–so make sure you head into town for at least one good meal.

Jellystone Park: Petoskey, MichiganThis Jellystone Park in Northern Michigan has a lovely countryside setting and fun amenities for the whole family. The heated pool and hot tub are a great place to kick back and relax on a hot summer day or after a grueling battle on the Gaga Ball court. We love this Jellystone’s community camp kitchen–it’s an amenity we rarely see at other campgrounds and would like to see more often. This shared outdoor kitchen has several cooking stations with sinks, cooktops, charcoal grills, and lots of seating. It makes for a great place to share a meal with your camping buddies or to get social and meet some other campers. The Petoskey area is a gorgeous lakeside community with Victorian architecture and lots of great food, shopping, and recreation. We have always said that Michigan is the most underrated states in the country for camping–here is another reason why.

Jellystone Park: South Jersey, New JerseyWe are thrilled that Yogi Bear is back in New Jersey and in a very big way. This new Jellystone Park in South Jersey is all about getting wet in one of their two outdoor pools or in their lake with that features a floating obstacle course. The fishing and kayaking are also very good here and the lake is a lovely place for a swim even if you don’t want to tackle the Wibit. The lakefront area has the look and feel of a beautiful state park–but the campground is packed with tons of amenities like laser tag, Gaga Ball, basketball, volleyball, and an arcade for rainy days–or for beating the heat on a hot summer day. We truly love the lakefront RV sites here. They are spacious and private and our kids loved fishing right from our site.

Jellystone Park: Wichita Falls, TexasTexas is a great state for camping with Yogi Bear as there are several great Jellystone Park locations there. Now you can add Jellystone Park in Wichita Falls (which is close to Dallas) to your list of places to visit in the Lonestar State. Everything is bigger in Texas and that sentiment rings true at this campground where they have not one, not two, but three large pools for cooling off on a hot summer day. They are also currently in the process of adding a water playground. But there is so much more to do here than just swimming and splashing–kids love the Gaga Ball and basketball courts, and they have an inflatable obstacle course, paintball, and laser tag–and much more.

Jellystone Park: Zion, UtahThis new Jellystone Park is slated to open in summer 2023 and we couldn’t be more excited. Having a new Jellystone Park near one of the greatest national parks in the country is going to be great for family campers. The renderings of this park look amazing and it certainly looks like another seriously off-the-hook Jellystone Park is about to be born. We sure do hope to visit this one on our next road trip out west.

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Hilton Head, South Carolina, is a land of luxury, so it makes sense there would be a truly luxurious RV resort nearby. Hilton Head National RV Resort is notable for its meticulous campsites and a fabulous array of amenities. This campground offers fun for the whole family—or a place to kick back and relax in the upscale atmosphere of Hilton Head.

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

Hilton Head National RV Resort is located off of Highway 278, just before the causeway that separates the island from the mainland, near the town Bluffton. One side of the grounds is dedicated to Hilton Head National Golf Course and the other side is the newly-built RV resort. While you aren’t directly in Hilton Head, you are just 10-12 minutes outside of town, and it’s an easy jump onto the island.

Our friend Bill Sferazza shared a great review of Hilton Head National RV Resort with Jeremy. To hear the full review, click play on the media player above–or listen to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

Is Hilton Head National RV Resort a True Resort?Photo by Bill Sferrazza

As we know, lots of campgrounds toss “resort” into their names. What makes a campground a resort comes down to a few items…ambiance, amenities, campsites, and service. While sharing his review of Hilton Head National RV Resort, our friend Bill Sferrazza literally said, “It’s the nicest place to put your RV I’ve ever been to.”

Bill doesn’t say that lightly, as he has stayed in places like Carolina Pines RV Resort (which he helped review here) and Castaways RV Resort (which he told us all about here), among others. Bill knows what he’s talking about! If you don’t believe him, check out all of the amazing photos he shared with us for this post.

While the renowned Carolina Pines might have more amenities, Bill says everything about Hilton Head National RV Resort is top level, as far as quality and care. This resort is truly top notch.

Amenities at Hilton Head National RV ResortPhoto by Bill Sferrazza

You’ll know you’re staying someplace special when you first enter the clubhouse at Hilton Head National RV Resort. This isn’t your basic camp store. It has all of your basic supplies here, of course, but venture further inside to find a comfortable lounge and the fitness center. A nice dining spot, Billy Mac’s Grille, is also located in the clubhouse. We love being able to grab a quick meal—or even simple snacks—without having to leave the campground! Spend some time on the porch to soak in the setting.

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

The pool area is definitely a focal point. Parents will enjoy the tiki bar. Kids will enjoy the water features and the zero entry, with nice areas for little ones to splash around. And, of course, the whole family will love the lazy river and the rentable cabanas. Nearby is a pickleball court, tennis court, and playground.

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

You’ll find quite a few other amenities at Hilton Head National RV Resort, including walking trails, a dog park, lawn games, arcade, and large community fire pit. The laundry facilities and comfort stations are all exceptionally well done!

The Campground ExperiencePhoto by Bill Sferrazza

The resort-level customer service at Hilton Head National RV Resort starts the minute you check in. Valets are awaiting to escort you to your campsite, at all hours of the day and night. They can help you back-in, if needed. In total, the resort has over 300 campsites. Most sites are back in, though there are a handful of pull-thrus. All of the sites are so big and well designed that you won’t really mind backing in!

The campsites are huge and have concrete pads. Even the hookup pedestals are classy! Seriously! They look like mini lighthouses, which is the perfect touch. As campers pull out, workers come around to clean and shine the pedestals and maintain the rest of the campsite. Now, do you see what we mean about having a real resort experience?

Photo by Bill Sferrazza

This resort has what seems like a “campground within a campground,” thanks to the adults-only area. A section of the resort is set aside for adults only, offering approximately 45 campsites overlooking a lake and the golf course. This gated area is home to the hot tub, something that adults who don’t like to share the hot tub with children will appreciate (and something that might miff the kids). This area also offers a private clubhouse of its own with a cocktail lounge.

What does this resort experience cost? Keep in mind that you are not only paying a premium price for the resort itself, but this is also located on the East Coast (which adds expense) and in a popular tourism area (which also raises the price). Sites range from $110 to $130 a night currently, which seems reasonable for this level of resort and this location.

One thing to note: This is a newer resort, so trees are somewhat sparse. To their credit, the resort did manage to get quite a few sites under large live oaks. There are other sites that are out in full sun.

Exploring the Hilton Head AreaPhoto of Hilton Head Harbour Town and Lighthouse by Bill Sferrazza

Here are a few recommendations of things to see, do, and visit in the Hilton Head region:

• Hilton Head Island is jam packed with biking trails. Bikes and e-bikes are allowed on the beach, and the sand is well packed for easy riding. Rentals are also available.
• The Hilton Head Lighthouse is a must see!
• Walk through Harbour Town to find shops, restaurants, and great views of yachts in the harbor.
• Golfers likely already know this, but Hilton Head has a number of well-known golf courses.
• Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, are both great day trips from Hilton Head.

Final Thoughts on Hilton Head National RV ResortPhoto by Bill Sferrazza

This is a grand new resort option on Hilton Head! It definitely rises to the level of luxury you might expect for the Hilton Head Island area, and it was clearly built with a specific point of view. Families can come and have plenty of fun, but adults can also find separate areas that cater more to them. In fact, that seems to be true of Hilton Head, in comparison to other coastal destinations like Myrtle Beach, which cater more to families. The atmosphere is really upscale, but you won’t feel out of place if you don’t have a high-end rig.

In discussing this campground, Bill revealed he canceled plans to return to Disney to revisit this resort—and seriously, we can’t think of a better vote of confidence!

We truly want to thank Bill Sferrazza for sharing his terrific campground review of Hilton Head National RV Resort. Be sure to follow him at Disney Image Makers, on Instagram, or at A Camper and a Camera! This resort is now on the top of our list for future destinations!

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We drink a lot of coffee at home and when we go camping–and we have always experimented with different ways to make it at home and away. When we first started camping we tried the Aeropress, the French Press, and percolators, and different pour over options. Eventually, we just got lazy and started bringing a regular old coffee machine with us in the RV. It’s not inspiring or fun to use–but it makes lot of coffee fast and its pretty easy to clean up. But a year or two ago we discovered Kuju Coffee at REI and fell in love with their single-serve individual pour overs for a quick afternoon pick-me-up when just one of us wants a cup of coffee.

Now we buy a box every single time we go to REI.

Why We Love Kuju Coffee For CampingWe like these individual pour overs from Kuju Coffee because they are delicious and flavorful. But also because they are fast, fun, and easy to make. They are also compact and easy to store for those of us that are camping with limited storage space. One pouch is about the size of two small tea bags. In other words they are perfect for tent campers, cabin renters, or anyone traveling in a smaller RV.

To listen to our interview with Jeff Wiguna, Kuju Coffee’s CEO, please click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas however you get your shows. In this interview Jeff talks about the pros and cons of each type of camp coffee. He also discusses how important the coffee experience is to all of those that love a hot and delicious cup of Java when we are camping.

How Does Kuju Coffee Work?Each Kuju Coffee filter has expandable anchors that really do work like a charm. We have used them on standard sized coffee mugs, but also on larger, beefier mugs like our Yeti Rambler mugs. The anchors don’t break when they are expanded for a larger mug. Their construction is very sturdy enough so they don’t collapse and fall into your mug when you are pouring hot water into them. Kuju Coffee’s anchor and filter system are perfectly executed and have not failed us yet after using them dozens of times.

How to Make the Best Cup of Kuju CoffeeBut none of this would matter if the coffee wasn’t good. After testing four of the six flavors we are pleased to report that it is very, very good. Kuju uses 100% specialty-grade coffee and it shows in every single sip. We do recommend that you use a tip that is given on the box—for a stronger cup (which is required in our RV!) Kuju recommends dipping the filter into the coffee while it cools. This tip really jacked up the flavor for us and truly made our coffee taste like a pour over at a high end coffee shop.

Kuju Coffee BlendsKuju Coffee makes six different flavors at the time of this writing–three of them are blends and three of them are single origins. Their light roast is called Angels Landing, their medium roast is called Basecamp Blend, and their dark roast is called Bold Awakening. We have tried the medium and the dark roast and love both of them. You will notice a grand outdoors theme with all of their packaging and marketing. This isn’t surprising considering the fact that the company was founded by two Eagle Scout brothers.

The company also donates one percent of their profits to our National Parks–pretty cool, right?

Kuju Coffee Single OriginsKuju Coffee also offers three single origin coffees–Ethiopia, Papa New Guinea, and West Sumatra. We have sampled the Ethiopia and the Papa New Guinea and would love to get our hands on the West Sumatra to give that a try.

There are so many great ways to make coffee at the campground–and our morning (and afternoon) cups of coffee are an essential part of our camping experience.

If you feel the same way you should definitely give Kuju Coffee a try. Their individual pocket pour overs really hit the mark for us. It tastes great. Comes in an attractive box. And has great functionality. All from a great young company that loves the great outdoors.

Order yourself some here.

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Have you ever dreamed about renting a campervan and going on a road trip across the Big Island of Hawaii? The trip planning might seem overwhelming at first. However, this travel guide has everything you need to kickstart your planning, including camper van rental information, campground recommendations, a sample itinerary, phenomenal sites to see, and the best places to eat and drink.

This post is based on notes from Lauren Ember from @afamwithavan and on one of her podcast appearance on The RV Atlas. All photos are also by Lauren Eber. Thanks Lauren!

Finding a Camper Rental for a Road Trip Across the Big Island of HawaiiCampervan at Laupahoehoe

To get started on your Hawaiian road trip, book a flight into Hilo or Kona, which have the island’s major airports. Consider using one as a starting point and one as an ending point, allowing you to start and end your road trip in different parts of the island. Or, you can plan a grand loop and circle the whole island. While in town, pick up a rental vehicle and groceries, and you’ll be all set for adventure.

While it is common to sleep inside a camper van on the mainland, some campgrounds in Hawaii do not allow visitors to sleep in vehicles. Be sure to research this before booking a campground. If needed, plan to take along a tent and camping gear.

While there aren’t many options for renting a camper on the Big Island of Hawaii, you will find some good choices if you plan early, including:

• RV Share or Outdoorsy: These peer-to-peer RV rental companies offers the largest variety and selection.
• Campervan Hawaii: This company offers small campers, including VW Westphalias, pop-top Jeep Rubicons, and more.
• Huakai Campers: You’ll find a variety of SUVs and trucks outfitted with rooftop tents and camping gear.

To hear more tips for planning a campervan road trip across the Big Island of Hawaii, click on the media player above–or listen to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

Akaka Falls

Non-Camping Accommodations on the Big Island of HawaiiInstead of renting a camper, it’s also possible to have a grand adventure by renting a car. Across the island, you’ll find various types of accommodations available within the national park and beyond, including hotels, cabins, and glamping rentals.

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has hotel rooms and cabin rentals available through Volcano House.
• Check peer-to-peer rental companies like Hipcamp and Airbnb for unique accommodations.
• Hotels are abundant, especially along the Kona Coast, which is considered a tourist corridor.

Camping options are included in the sample itinerary below!

Campsite at Spencer Beach Park

Sample Itinerary for a Road Trip Across the Big Island of HawaiiLauren Eber and her family did an epic tour of Hawaii’s Big Island in a 1990s VW Westfalia. Here is Lauren’s recommended itinerary for a 1-2 week #vanlife road trip across Hawaii’s Big Island, making a grand loop that starts and stops in Hilo:

Southern IslandViews from a Laupahoehoe Beach Park campsite

• From Hilo, drive north about 45 minutes to Laupahoehoe Beach Park for 1-2 nights.
• Visit Akaka Falls, which is a must see, and if time permits also stop at Rainbow Falls.
• Head inland on Highway 11 towards Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Stay at Namakanipaio Campground in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and use it as your home base to explore the park for 1-3 nights. Call the park’s concessionaire, Volcano House, to reserve a campsite or cabin at (808) 756-9625. Campsites are currently $15, and you can rent a tent that they will set up for you for $40. Rustic cabins and hotels rooms also available. Check out the next section for specific tips about what to see and do in the park!
• Continue along Highway 11 and head to the Punalu’u Beach Park campground for the night to explore the nearby Punalu’u black sand beach, which is famous for the sands and the sea turtles. It is also a great place to snorkel!

Northern IslandSunset at Spencer Beach Park

• Continue heading west on Highway 11 toward Kona. Campgrounds in the Kona area tend to be on the more crowded side. For a true Hawaiian experience (with lots of families crowded on the beach front with their tents, grilling, playing music, and reveling), stay at Hookena Beach Park, in southern Kona. Or for something a little mellower (but not great swimming), camp at Kohanaiki Beach Park and watch the surfers do their thing.
• Use your Kona campground or lodging as a home base to explore this side of the island. There are endless activities and tons of tourist resources. Visit beaches, kayak, or do a night snorkel with manta rays. Visit Puʻuhonua o HōnaunauNational Historical Park and Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park to learn more about Hawaiian culture and get stamps in your NPS passport. Other activities in the area include: coffee plantation tours, local farmer’s markets, authentic luaus, and surfing lessons. Visit the beautiful Kealakekua Bay marine preserve to snorkel or kayak. Check out the many restaurants and coffee shops in town!

Tent view from Spencer Beach Park

• After leaving Kona, continue up the coast to the incredibly beautiful Spencer Beach Park. Camp at the edge of the world in this stunning location and enjoy the relative solitude and incredible sunsets! This campground has a very calm white sand beach, which is great for kids. It can be very windy, though! For the few dollars of a campground reservation fee, you are getting an even better view than the highest-end Big Island resorts that line this stretch of coast. From here, it’s a short drive to the Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve or into Waimea.

Back to Hilo Make your way back to Hilo for the return trip home (if flying out of Hilo) via the incredibly scenic drive through Waimea and Highway 19. Along the way, if you haven’t already, check out the town of Waimea and stop for some good food. Take the .7 mile family nature walk through the forest in the Kalopa State Recreation area. * Consider making a detour to the Waipi’o Valley Overlook. The road into the valley is closed, but you can still get to the overlook for a breathtaking view of the Waipi’o Valley. As you are making your way down the stunningly lush and beautiful Hamakua Coast, detour off of Highway 19 to take the short 4 mile stretch of the Old Mamalahoa Highway, called the Pepe’ekeo or Onomea Scenic Drive, through tropical forest, streams, and waterfalls. * Spend another night in Laupahoehoe if needed before catching a morning flight. Alternatively, Arnott’s Lodging* offers camping closer to the airport. Or, you can spend a final night in a hotel in Hilo if you have had to surrender your camping gear the day before your flight home.

The Geology Behind Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkHawaii Volcanoes Crater Rim Drive

While on a road trip across the Big Island of Hawaii, stopping to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must. To fully appreciate the park, it’s good to first learn about the geology that created the park’s explosive attractions.

While most of the world’s volcanoes are located around tectonic plate boundaries, the islands of Hawaii were formed by a hot spot in the earth’s mantle, under the ocean. The Hawaiian plate moves at a rate of about 4 inches per year over this hot spot, which is currently located under the Big Island of Hawaii and is responsible for the ongoing volcanic activity.

Active VolcanoesThere are four active volcanoes on Hawaii’s Big Island:

• Kilauea – Located inside Volcanoes National Park, Kilauea is the most active volcano in Hawaii—and possibly on Earth. Before visiting, check the NPS website for updates about current activity, closures, and safety information. The U.S. Geological Survey also provides updates. According to Hawaiian legend, Kilauea is home to Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Check out this Kilauea Volcano Livestream!
• Mauna Loa – From inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Loa can be seen towering above the Kilauea caldera. This is the largest volcano in the world, standing at 13,677 feet above sea level and more than 30,000 feet from its base under the ocean to its peak. It has erupted 33 times since 1843, most recently, and quite dramatically, last year, in 2022. Find Mauna Loa Volcano updates here.
• Mauna Kea – This is sometimes considered dormant, as it last erupted 3500 years ago. It can generally only be explored with an official tour, and special 4-wheel-drive vehicles are required. The Mauna Kea Observatory at the top of the mountain is considered the best place on the island for stargazing. When measured from its base under the ocean to its peak, Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain on Earth!
• Hualalai – This volcano has not erupted since the 1800s and is considered overdue for an eruption, making it potentially one of the most dangerous volcanoes in Hawaii, although seismic activity is regularly monitored. It is on the west coast of the island, near Kailua-Kona.

Preparing for a Visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkNamakanipaio Campground in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Because of all the active volcanoes, it is important to check conditions before and during your trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the further Big Island. Campground information is constantly changing, as places open and close regularly due to volcanic activity or effects of lava flows.

Some recent eruptions affected various areas of the island:

• In late 2022, Mauna Loa erupted for the first time since 1984. Though the eruption ended in December, some park closures are in effect months later. It’s unknown how long the closures will last. The NPS offers an interesting video chronology of the eruption.
• Kilauea also had a big eruption recently, in January of 2023. Find updates from the NPS here.

Once you arrive, start your visit at the Kilauea Visitor Center to get your bearings. You’ll find exhibits and can talk to a ranger to get the latest on eruption, hike, and activity information. Be sure to ask about ranger-led programs and pick up a Junior Ranger booklet for any kids with you.

Things to See and Do in Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkOne of the best ways to explore the park is to make a scenic drive, but be sure to allow plenty of time for stops at overlooks and for any hikes you plan to do. There are two main scenic drives that hold most of the top sites: Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road.

Crater Rim DriveCrater Rim Drive is 10.6 miles long and circles the summit caldera. Allow 1-3 hours, depending on how often you stop. This journey takes you through desert and rain forest landscapes. It has access to many scenic stops and short walks. Find more information from the NPS here.

Hawaii Volcanoes Crater Rim Drive

Here are some recommended stops on the Crater Rim Drive:

• Thurston Lava Tube: This 500-year-old lava tube is reached via a half mile loop trail through a lush rain forest.
• Sulphur Banks: This paved trail has a boardwalk where volcanic gases seep from the ground. Also check out the Kilauea Overlook and picnic area.
• Uekahuna Overlook of the Halema’uma’u Crater: Take a 10-minute walk to the rim of a steaming crater, the heart of the volcano and a sacred Hawaiian cultural site.
• Kilauea Iki Crater Overlook: Find a dramatic view of the crater and the start of the popular Kilauea Iki Trail.
• Kilauea Iki Trail: This 3.3 mile-loop trail (when departing from the Kilauea Iki Crater Overlook) goes through a rain forest into a crater and across a frozen lava lake, still steaming from the 1959 eruption (yes, you read that right! It really is that adventurous!) Brace yourself for the 400 feet of elevation gain and loss. If you only do one real hike in the park, it should be this one. Check out the trail guide to learn more.

Lava tubes along Crater Rim Drive

Chain of Craters Road The Chain of Craters Road is another exceptionally scenic drive through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, especially when the weather is clear. This drive takes you from the crater down to sea level, heading toward the coast until the road disappears under frozen lava before you reach the ocean.

There are too many scenic stops along the road to list here, but plan to spend at least three hours round-trip exploring this 19-mile road. Allow more time if you do a lot of hiking and exploring! Here are two highlights:

• Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs: Take a 1.5-mile round-trip trail to the site of over 23,000 petroglyph images.
• Pu’u Huluhulu Cinder Cone: Take a 2.6-mile round-trip journey over the 1973-74 lava flows, starting at the Mauna Ulu parking lot.

Other National Park Sites on the Big IslandIn addition to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, here are two more NPS sites to include on your visit to the Big Island of Hawaii:

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau Historical Park is a sacred site to the Hawaiian people, an ancient sanctuary for defeated warriors, along the Kona coast. This park is easily visited from Kona and a worthwhile stop. Get oriented at the visitor’s center, then head out to see the royal grounds and the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau ceremonial site, bounded by a massive rock wall. If time permits, hike a mile each way to the historic Kiʻilae village.

Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Start by getting oriented at the visitor’s center and bookstore, then head to the beach to see the sea turtles and the fish trap, fish pond rock wall, and petroglyphs. This park is also easily visited from Kona, and/or combined with a day trip to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau.

Hawaii Laupahoehoe Campsite View

Food & Drink on Hawaii’s Big IslandWe can’t talk about a road trip across the Big Island of Hawaii without talking about the unique food and drink found here. Here are some tips:

• You don’t have to eat fancy to eat well on the Big Island. In fact, the fresh produce found at farmer’s markets and fruit stands offers a true taste of the island. The bounty includes coconuts, mangos, pineapple, and so much more! To get the scoop on the best spots, ask the local residents. The Big Island Guide and Love Big Island websites also have helpful info.
• Merriman’s Waimea, the flagship restaurant of chef Peter Merriman, offers farm-to-table Hawaiian regional cuisine in a cozy setting. Reservations are strongly recommended; book well in advance of your trip if possible.
• Another simple delight is coffee from the Kona region. Kona coffee is famous for good reason. While in the area, you can do tours and tastings. If you find a blend you like, you may even be able to have it shipped home! Here are some great ways to enjoy the local java:
  • Kona Blue Sky Coffee offers great-tasting deliveries to sed a taste of the island home.
  • Find a list of Kona coffee tours and tastings on Love Big Island’s Kona Coffee Tasting page.
• For local brews, head to Kona Brewing Co. is a well-known beer brewery.
• Finally, shave ice is a big thing on the Big Island! Don’t miss the chance to try it!

More campsite views from Laupahoehoe

Hawaii Road Trip Wrap UpWe hope you enjoyed this trip planning guide for a road trip across the Big Island of Hawaii! If your travels won’t take you off the mainland, don’t miss our our other national park information, including 35 Tips for RV Trips to National Parks and Which National Parks Have RV Hookups?

A big thank you to Lauren Eber for sharing her detailed trip notes and the fantastic photos!

Don’t forget that you can listen to a full podcast episode about Lauren’s adventures by clicking on the media player above–or listen to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

The post Planning an Epic Camper Van Trip Across the Big Island of Hawaii appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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It’s a tough job being Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The park lacks the majesty and awe-inspiring landscapes of its western peers like Glacier and Yellowstone. Western South Dakota, a few hours to the south, offers up a greater variety of tourist attractions mixed with natural wonders. But North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt and the adjoining town of Medora have plenty of charm and heart and are well worth making the effort to get to—whether as a detour on a long road trip or as a separate destination.

This is a guest post by Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial on the Road. To listen to Jeremy and Gretchen talk about Medora Campground and Theodore Roosevelt National Park click on the media player above–or listen to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

Our family loved the great wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes in the park, and enjoyed learning about the 26th President’s connection to the area and partaking in some Teddy Roosevelt-themed entertainment in town.

Medora Campground Near Theodore Roosevelt National ParkMedora Campground, operated by the city of Medora, is the perfect place to stay if you want to be right in the middle of everything; it’s next to Medora’s small downtown and around the corner from the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s entrance gate and visitor center. You can even walk or bike to restaurants and attractions.

The campground has 226 sites; most of those are full hook up RV sites, but there are also some tent sites, as well as a handful of cabins for rent and a Conestoga wagon outfitted with beds, electricity, and air conditioning. Campground amenities include a camp store, laundry room and some nice public areas including a playground and picnic pavilion. There’s no pool on site, but the Medora city pool is right next door and available to the public for a small fee.

The biggest complaint people have about Medora Campground is that the sites are small. And it’s true; the pull-throughs are plenty long but very narrow, and you’ll be right on top of your neighbors. Each site has a picnic table, but eating outside might well mean close proximity to your neighbor’s sewer hose. They’ve chosen to pack as many sites as possible into the space, and they fill them up on weekends in season.

The compensation for the close quarters, though, is the excellent location, as close as you can get to the National Park and to everything in town, as well as some pretty spectacular views of the North Dakota Badlands and access to the Little Missouri River. There are a good number of other options nearby if your priority is more room to spread out, but for our short stay, the great location was worth getting a bit cozy with other RVs.

What to do in and Around Theodore Roosevelt National ParkTheodore Roosevelt National park is divided into three units, with varying degrees of accessibility. The South Unit is by far the most popular and easy to get to, located right off of I-94 in the city of Medora. Here you’ll find the park’s main visitor center, with a museum and gift shop, the Maltese Cross Cabin where Theodore Roosevelt stayed during some of his time in North Dakota, and a 48 mile scenic drive. We spent our first day here, taking in the scenic drive and stopping for several short hikes, scenic viewpoints, and encounters with the park’s large prairie dog population.

The North Unit sees far fewer visitors, owing to its desolate location 50 miles off the interstate. Everyone we met told us it was worth the drive, though, and we have to agree; we made the trek here on our second day and found it a less crowded and more intimate experience than the South Unit, with amazing wildlife viewing and plenty of chances to see the buttes that make up the North Dakota Badlands up close and spot some interesting formations not found in the South Unit.

We didn’t make it to the remote Elkhorn Ranch Unit, which preserves the land where Roosevelt ranched and requires a long drive on unpaved roads to access.

The Medora MusicalThe tiny city of Medora, just outside the National Park gate, pretty much turns into a Teddy Roosevelt theme park in the summers. The biggest attraction is the surprisingly elaborate and professional Medora Musical—an outdoor show telling the story of of the area that runs eight times a week all season. Before the show, we tried out the Pitchfork Steak Fondue at the open air restaurant next to the amphitheater. It’s exactly what it sounds like; a steak cooked (on a pitchfork!) in a barrel of hot oil. The musical and dinner make for an expensive evening, so watch for discounts like free kid tickets one or two nights a week.

Medora offers a whole range of entertainment options all summer. In addition to the musical, we watched a Theodore Roosevelt impersonator bring the President to life. There’s also a popular gospel brunch, a gold course, trail rides, mini golf, and more—a lot more than we had time to do in our short stay.

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When you plan a national park adventure in an RV the first decision you have to make is to choose which park you want to visit. The second decision you have to make is to choose whether you want to camp inside the national park at an NPS campground, or outside the park at a private campground. That may seem like a small difference, but it is definitely not.

The vast majority of campgrounds inside our national parks do not have hookups–so RV owners that camp inside of those parks often rely on solar systems or generators to power their rigs while camping there. Of course many RV owners choose to camp outside of the parks at private campgrounds in gateway towns. These private campgrounds outside of the parks almost always offer full hookups–and many amenities that are not available inside the parks like pools and playgrounds and laundry rooms.

So when many RV owners plan a national park’s trip the question often boils down to this: do I camp without hookups inside the park and stay in some of the most beautiful campgrounds in the country, or do I camp in a gateway town and get the holy trinity of water, electric and sewer?

But the question we seek to answer on this week’s episode of The RV Atlas is this: Can you ever have it all? Are their national park campgrounds with hookups? The answer is certainly not a resounding yes–because not too many national park campgrounds have hookups–but nevertheless the answer is YES. There are national park campgrounds with hookups and this week’s podcast identifies every single one of them within our 63 National Parks.

Back on the RV Atlas podcast is Kerri Cox from Travels With Birdy. On this week’s episode she shares the results of research she did for an article that was published on Campendium that features all of the national parks with hookups.

Kerri Cox (and family) from Travels With Birdy

To read Kerri’s excellent and informative article click right here. To listen to Jeremy interview Kerri about the topic on The RV Atlas podcast please click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows!

See You at the Campground!

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Planning an RV trip to a national park can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are 35 tips for RV trips to national parks that are excerpted from Jeremy and Stephanie Puglisi’s bestselling book, Where Should We Camp Next? National Parks: The Best Campgrounds and Unique Outdoor Accommodations In and Around National Parks, Seashores, Monuments, and More, which is packed with over 300 campground reviews and hundred of tips and tricks for visiting them.

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss these 35 tips from their book, click on the media player above or subscribe to the The RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Or just keep on reading right below.

Pre-Planning For RV Trips to National Parks#1 Decide if You Want to Camp Inside or Outside of the National Park? Or both!St Mary Campground, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

You may be the type of camper that wants to save money and camp within the national park proper. In a general sense the campgrounds inside the park or much cheaper and more beautiful than the campgrounds outside of the park. In the vast majority of cases the campgrounds inside the park do not have hookups.

West Glacier KOA, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

Or maybe you like to camp at private campgrounds outside of the parks that have full hookups and pools and playgrounds, but can cost much, much more than the NPS campgrounds within the park. That’s a great option. Or many you should consider a two campground trip. We often stay inside the park first and then head to a private campground second so we can dump our tanks and enjoy all of the amenities after roughing it inside the park.

#2 Decide What Type of Campground is Right for YouWhether you are staying inside of the park or outside of the park–there are campground options in the middle of the action and campgrounds that are completely off the grid. Each one will come with a unique set of pros and cons depending on your perspective. Decide if you want to be near the crowds or away from them. Both options are usually available–at least near major national parks.

#3 Learn How to Make Campground ReservationsFolks that are new to camping and RVing are often shocked at how difficult it is to navigate the reservation policies and systems for various public lands. Most national park campgrounds are available to reserve on Recreation.gov, and that’s also where you can purchase or reserve passes for national park activities and attractions. Once you’ve chosen a national park campground featured in this book, you can go straight to recreation.gov and search for that campground to learn more. Or you can go to the park specific NPS website, find the camping page by using the top navigation menu, and then click on the campground to find more information about reservations and booking windows.

Private campgrounds will have their own unique reservation system. Some franchises and chains, like KOA and Sun Outdoors, have a central reservations platform for all their locations. Independent private campgrounds may still require you to call to make a reservation. Note any cancellation policies when booking at a private campground. They are often much less flexible than hotels, and new campers and RVers are sometimes shocked at cancellation fees and penalties, which often include a non-refundable deposit or campground credit only.

#4 Understand the Risks and Rewards of First-Come, First-Serve CampgroundsYou’ll see in this book that some national park campgrounds are first-come, first-serve or have some first-come, first-serve sites. This means that the campground opens up any available sites at a certain time in the morning–usually check out time–and the first campers to arrive can claim that spot. This is a wonderful option if you are looking for a bit of flexibility and whimsy in your national park travel. If you are planning on staying at any first come, first serve campground, research the policies at that particular campground. Know what time available spots open up and be in line for those spots if it’s a popular campground. You should also have a backup plan if the campground is known to fill up fast.

#5 Learn to Interpret Online Reviews We never book a campground without doing our homework, and that includes researching campground reviews from a variety of our favorite resources. After choosing a recommendation from this book, you may want to do some extra digging and that’s a good idea. Don’t just look at a star rating to make your decision. You’ll also want to do a good amount of reading to make sure you are getting a holistic idea of the campground vibe.

#6 Take Patterns in Online Reviews Very SeriouslySometimes we hear people complaining about a campground, and when we do a little research, it turns out that the place has years’ worth of bad reviews with no response from management. If more than one review mentions late-night partying or dirty bathhouses, you should believe them. Also note when a review was left. Sometimes campgrounds change ownership, or make a significant investment in amenities over the course of time. Don’t believe everything that every reviewer writes, but do look for patterns.

#7 Look for Reviews from People Who are Camping Like You AreIf you are tent camping, look for reviews from tent campers. The same is true for RVers or cabin renters. Different types of accommodations and campsites may have different issues, even at the same campground.

#8 Pay Attention to Specific Amenities that are CritiquedSome perfectly acceptable campgrounds in beautiful places have specific features and amenities that you might not care about at all. For example, we prefer to use our RV bathroom and rarely walk into the bathhouses at campgrounds. It really doesn’t matter to us if a bathhouse isn’t perfectly maintained. However, if you are tent camping, this may be the single most important campground amenity. The same could be true of playgrounds, pools, or fitness centers. Pay attention to feedback on things that are important to you personally.

#9 Follow Up with Additional CrowdsourcingThere are so many camping Facebook groups that make it easy to double-check your campground choices. In The RV Atlas Facebook group, people get feedback on campgrounds across the country in minutes, often confirming that they are picking a fantastic location. They also receive helpful tips from the crowd, perhaps being warned that the mosquitoes are bad in July or the river sites tend to flood in spring. Crowdsourcing campground information is easier than ever, so take advantage whenever possible.

#10 Understand Campground Pricing In and Around National ParksHow much does it cost to camp inside a national park? Usually it is very affordable–like $20 to $30 bucks a night affordable. How much does it cost to camp inside a national park? Usually a whole heck of a lot more–like up to four or five times more in some cases. So make your decisions accordingly. And again–consider camping inside the park for a few days to get that experience at a reasonable price, and then move outside of the park to dump your tanks and enjoy pools and hot tubs and playgrounds.

#11 Understand Dynamic Pricing at Private CampgroundsCamp Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge, Pigeon Forge

A decade ago, campgrounds offered pretty transparent pricing that was stable throughout an entire camping season. While most public campgrounds still have a standard price for each type of site (tent, electric, electric/water, electric/water/sewer), times have changed for many private campgrounds. It is becoming more and more common for private campgrounds, especially resorts, to use the dynamic pricing model that hotels have used for decades. Prices for the same site at the same campground will vary greatly depending on the day of the week and month of the year. A full hookup campsite at a resort might be $70 per night on a Wednesday in early June and $125 per night on a Saturday in July. If you are looking for the amenities without the high price point, try to camp during the week or during the shoulder seasons.

#12 Book any Camping Accommodations as Early as PossibleIf there’s something worth repeating over and over again, this is it. National Parks have always been popular vacation destinations, and camping is more popular than ever. The lack of available campsites is a common complaint amongst seasoned campers and RVers. Plan ahead as far in advance as possible.

Tips for Enjoying RV Trips to National Parks#13 Start at the Visitor Center for Personalized TipsUpon arriving you might want to drive past the NPS visitor center and head straight into the park. That would be a mistake. Even if you have done your homework, speaking to a ranger and getting personalized recommendations is key to a great visit. Rangers are aware of current conditions throughout the park. They also have the uncanny ability to look at your family and figure out exactly what hikes or adventures will be perfect for your crew’s (potentially) diverse ability levels.

#14 Read all Safety Recommendations on the Park’s WebsiteVisiting a national park is not like visiting Disney World. A family trip to Yellowstone or Yosemite can be dangerous if you do not read and implement each park’s safety rules and regulations. Most accidents that occur in national parks are easily avoidable. If you take the time to learn about the dangers that exist in each park, and apply common sense during your adventures there, you will avoid injuries that could easily ruin your trip.

#15 Avoid Crowded Spots at Busy TimesOld Faithful, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

The overcrowding of our national parks has become a major story over the last few years. But are they really that overcrowded? Should we just stay home or wait until next year? We don’t think so. Yes, the most popular spots, in the most popular parks, at the most popular times, are jam packed with visitors. But opportunities for off-the-beaten path adventures exist in all of our great national parks, especially if you can avoid weekends and visit during shoulder seasons. You might also decide to explore a less visited park–opting for North Cascades over Olympic, or Shenandoah over Great Smoky Mountains.

#16 Get Up Early and GoStout Grove, Redwood National and State Parks, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

The single most important tip we can give anyone that wants to enjoy a National Park visit is to get up early. Popular sites and trailheads often have limited parking that can easily fill up by 8 am. The difference between crowds at entrance gates and visitors centers in the early morning compared to after lunchtime is stunning. We’ve often heard folks say they are not morning people and will enjoy the late afternoon instead. In our experience, parks don’t start to quiet down until dinner time, and by that time it may not be safe to head out on a hike. Consider becoming a early bird, at least for your national park adventures.

#17 Pack Tons of Snacks and WaterNothing will ruin a day in the park more easily than someone getting hangry. Make sure you pack plenty of food and water for the day and never assume you will be able to replenish supplies inside the park. Some national park newbies are shocked at the lack of concessions in many places. A cooler with sandwiches, fruit, and granola bars is always a good idea. You also need to calculate how much water to bring on every hike that you take. Filling up a few water bottles without making specific calculations could lead to dehydration on the trail.

#18 Attend Ranger Talks, Interpretive Walks, and Ranger ProgramsSome of the most amazing national park experiences happen when rangers and guides bring the park to life during tours and talks. One of the best reasons to stay in a national park campground is that many will host evening ranger talks right on site. We’ve learned about bear safety in St. Mary’s Campground in Glacier, the moon phases in Cedar Pass Campground in the Badlands, and the lives of otters and weasels in Platte River Campground in Sleeping Bear Dunes. Make sure to get a program schedule when you first arrive and fit some in to your itinerary.

#19 Always Get a Picture By the National Park SignIt may feel corny, but most folks treasure those pictures when they look back through their camera roll. And framing those sign pictures is a great way to display your national park adventures. You can bring a mini tripod along with you on your trip, master the selfie, or find someone to take the picture for you. It’s worth the stop.

Tips for RV Trips to National Parks with Kids#20 Get the Kids Educated and Excited before You GoIn the months leading up to a national park camping trip, we like to immerse ourselves and our kids in books, movies, videos, and music about the park we will be visiting. YouTube has also proved to be a terrific resource for destination videos. This process builds anticipation and excitement and often leads to them helping develop our travel itinerary. We always encourage this and try to empower them by implementing their suggestions for hikes, activities, and even restaurants.

#21 Participate in the Junior Ranger ProgramsIf you have kids between the ages of 5-12, then plan on doing the Junior Ranger Program at every park you visit. The activities are engaging and completely different at each park. Our kids loved the scavenger hunts and activity booklets and being sworn in as Junior Rangers after completing them. The badges from each location also became their favorite souvenirs from each and every trip.

22 Do Some Advanced Research on the Junior Ranger ProgramsDo some advanced research. We like to look online or call to see what the general Junior Ranger requirements are for a particular park. Sometimes our visit will be too short to complete the program and we like to know that in advance. For example, we only had about 4 hours at Crater Lake National Park, and we knew that we wanted to do the rim hike. So we let the kids know ahead of time that we wouldn’t be earning junior ranger badges that day.

23 Pick Up Your Junior Ranger Booklet Before Doing Anything ElseEvery junior ranger booklet is different, so we like to know the requirements before we start hopping around a park. Often the booklets will require attendance at a ranger talk or two, so it’s good to get the schedule and plan that at the beginning of your visit.

24 Celebrate the Swearing in CeremonyOur boys earned their very first junior ranger badges at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. We took pictures, made a big fuss, and then celebrated with ice cream. We wanted them to look forward to collecting even more badges and patches in the future.

#25 Choose Hikes That Lead to Big PayoffsCrater Lake National Park, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

There’s a lot of hiking in many national parks, and if you’re not careful, kids can burn out on the activity. Choose your hikes wisely. Look for adventurous climbs with big payoffs along the way. Our own kids love hikes that criss-cross streams or lead us to waterfalls or summits with panoramic views. We have hiked to glaciers in Montana, and we have hiked above the clouds in Olympic National Park. There may be some grumbling along the way, but snacks usually help with that.

#26 Slow Down and Soak in The Beauty Shenandoah National Park, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

It is possible to over plan a trip to a national park, just like it is possible to over plan a trip to Disney World. If you feel like you are rushing from place to place and stressing out about parking and squeezing in every last thing on your list, take a deep breath, slow down, and soak up the beauty around you. Always remember that you don’t have to see and do everything in one trip. A return trip to a magnificent location is often as good or even better than the maiden voyage.

#27 Schedule Recovery Days and Downtime at the CampgroundRelaxing Outside of Glacier National Park, photo by Jeremy Puglisi

Make the most of your time in a national park with kids by scheduling some big, ambitious adventures, but also be thoughtful about planning downtime at the campground and what we like to think of as “recovery days.” If we plan 2-3 straight days of rigorous biking, hikes, and scenic drives, we will often take a full day off for more relaxing activities like chilling at the campground, swimming, taking a guided tour, or doing some souvenir shopping in a gateway town.

28 Sign up for the Every Kid Outdoors if you have a 4th GraderEvery Kid Outdoors offers all fourth graders a free entrance pass to hundreds of Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Reclamation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Forest Service, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites. Go to www.everykidoutdoors.gov and follow the simple steps to apply and print the pass. Note that the pass must be printed (an unnecessarily hurdle in our opinion) and presented for entrance. The pass covers the 4th grader and any other passengers in the vehicle. If the national park site charges per person, the pass will cover the 4th grader and up to three adults. No electronic receipts or proof of pass will be accepted–we, along with many other parents, have learned this the hard way.

Tips for RV Trips to National Parks with Pets#29 Do your Research When Traveling With PetsCamping is an extremely pet friendly way to travel, however national parks camping trips can be an exception to this generalization. Many national parks are established to protect the natural environment, and if pets threaten the wildlife, plant life, or geological integrity of a site, the park service will restrict their access. Don’t be surprised by pet policies when you show up at a national park. Make sure in advance they are allowed in the campground, and know which activities you may have to forgo if you bring your furry friend.

30 Plan for your Pet’s Safety at the CampsiteYou may have to make national park trips and campground decisions based on your pet’s safety. You’ll want to make sure you don’t visit during extreme heat or cold temperatures. Make sure your pet is not left alone in a tent or RV during your stay. Take precautions to keep them safe from wildlife–elk, bear, and bison roam through campgrounds in many national parks. Consider staying outside the park at private campgrounds with hookups, dog parks, and dog kenneling services. When we personally visited Badlands National Park in the summer, we reserved a less scenic campsite that offered electricity so we could be sure to keep our family cattle dog cool and comfortable.

31 Plan for your Pet’s Safety While Exploring the ParkWe love taking our dog along on our national park adventures, but we are also careful to prepare in advance to keep her safe and healthy. Check the forecast in advance to make sure temperatures will be mild enough for their comfort. Never leave your pet in a vehicle unattended while you go inside a visitor center or on a hike. Bring plenty of food and water. Be aware of park-specific hazards and follow park guidelines. We witnessed a dog being allowed to dip its nose in a geyser at Yellowstone, which could have caused serious injury. Snakebites and falls from cliffs are other common dog injuries in national parks. Be aware and be prepared.

32 Always Leash Your PetNo matter how well behaved your pet is, or how perfect their recall, pets are always required to be on a six foot leash while in national parks. This is as much for your pet’s safety as for anyone else’s. This is a non-negotiable so if you are bringing your pet to a NPS site, be prepared to follow this guideline.

33 Always Clean Up After Your PetThe national parks were created to protect the land, and pet waste can put serious strain on an ecosystem. Just because you are in a remote location far from anyone else does not mean you stop cleaning up after your pet. Carry in the baggies and carry out the poop. Every time.

34 Don’t Get Discouraged by Stories About Crowded National ParksIf you want to go then go. Just be smart and pick good times to go and book reservations early! Someone is going to go, why not you?

35 Get Where Should Should We Camp Next? National ParksThis book is an amazing resource for planning RV trips to national parks that will help you discover over 300 amazing campgrounds inside and outside of the parks! It’s a terrific resource. Trust us. We wrote the book!

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Over the past few years we have created a series of podcasts about the history of American camping. We have published in-depth episodes on the Army Corps of Engineers and their amazing system of campgrounds, on the past, present, and future of the National Forest Service, on the Civilian Conservation Corps and the massive impact that they have had on outdoor recreation in America. And now, on the latest episode of the RV Atlas we are continuing this look at the history of camping with an episode about the birth of the National Park Service.

Our guest on all four of those podcasts has been Casita Dean May–our friend and a longtime RV Atlas podcast correspondant. Dean is a camping fanatic and history buff–so he has been the perfect guide on all four of these historical episodes.

On Today’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast Dean walks us through key moments in the birth of the NPS. Moments that matter from its prehistory, its birth, and its formative years.

To listen to Jeremy interview Dean about the National Park Service and the key historical figures that brought it into being–click on the media player above–or subscribe to The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your shows.

Thomas Moran: The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Here are some of the key moments that Dean highlights in this episode of the podcast–this outline of the podcast episode comes directly from Dean’s notes:

• George Catlin, an American painter came up with the idea of a national park in 1832 while traveling the American plains.
• The federal government designated Hot Springs National Reservation the first “national reservation” in 1832.
• By the 2nd half of the 1800s, a growing number of people, notably the naturalist and conservationist John Muir began calling on the federal government to protect those scenic places from exploitation.
• In 1864, the United States Congress identified Yosemite Valley as an important land area and gave it to California to manage as a state park.
• In 1871 an expedition to the Yellowstone region led by Ferdinand V. Hayden and sponsored by the U.S. Geological Survey included the photographer William Henry Jackson and the painter Thomas Moran.
• Upon the expedition’s return to the East, Jackson’s images of Yellowstone and, especially, a series of spectacular large paintings of the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone and other wonders there executed by Moran enthralled the American public.
• President Ulysses S. Grant declared Yellowstone the first national park in 1872.
• Some naturalists and others have argued that there is evidence that indicates that the creation of Yellowstone was predated by the creation of Bogd Khan Mountain National Park in Mongolia, which may date from as early as 1778.
• In 1875, Congress created Mackinac National Park, managed by the army that had a presence on the island.
• In 1890, Congress established Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks.
• In 1899, Mount Rainier received national park status.
• In 1902, Crater Lake National Park was established.
• The naturalist, John Muir, believed lands in the Yosemite Valley in California were being exploited and he convinced President Theodore Roosevelt to camp there with him in 1903.
• President Roosevelt spent 3 days camping in the Yosemite Valley. They spent hours talking around the campfire regarding the exploitation and challenges of the Yosemite Valley.Yosemite was under full federal control by 1906. John Muir is known as “the father of the national parks.
• He was influenced by Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Muir also founded the Sierra Club in 1892. He served as its first president until his death in 1914.
• In 1906, Congress passed the Antiquities Act. It grants the president the authority to set aside historic landmarks on public lands. As a result, President Roosevelt takes swift action. In 1906, Devil’s Tower became the first national monument.
• Between 1901 and 1909, President Roosevelt created 5 national parks. He was known as the “conservation president.”
• In 1910, Glacier National park was established.
• For many years, the national parks were coordinated by the Departments of War, Agriculture, and/or Interior (not always effectively).
• In 1914, Stephen Mather, a wealthy businessman, wrote to the Secretary of the Interior about the poor condition of parks he had visited that summer.
• The Secretary suggested that Mather work to improve the system by joining the Department of the Interior in Washington D.C.
• Two years later, through the efforts of Mather and his assistant, Horace Albright, Congress passed what was dubbed the “Organic Act,” which authorized the formation of the NPS. The signing of the Organic Act of 1916 by Woodrow Wilson–is the moment when the National Park Service was born.
• The Organic Act of 1916 gathered the 14 national parks and 21 national monuments into one agency, the NPS.
• Stephen Mather was named the first NPS director.
• Horace Albright was the 2nd NPS director
• This act declared that the purpose of the NPS was “to conserve the scenery and natural historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.”
• In 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt further streamlined the system by consolidating all parks, monuments, and cemeteries under the NPS.
• Historic Sites Act of 1935 – allowed the federal government to give historic properties protected status.
• In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Wilderness Act into law emphasizing a “parks for the people” philosophy that included accessible parks in more urban areas.
• In 1970, Congress with the General Authorities Act declared “that the National Park System, which began with the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, has since grown to include superlative natural, historic, and recreation areas in every region…and that it is the purpose of this Act to include all such areas in the System….”
• In 1990, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act required museums including those in national parks to return excavated remains to their cultural descendants.
• The founding of Yellowstone National Park [in 1872] began a worldwide national park movement. Today more than 100 nations contain some 1,200 national parks or equivalent preserves.
• The NPS has to balance its goals that can be contradictory at times: preserving the parks for the future and allowing the public to enjoy them.
• Today the NPS has over 318 million visitors per year.
• The NPS employs approximately 20,000 individuals and utilizes more than 300,000 volunteers.

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Are you looking for a terrific resource to help you plan out a lifetime of RV Vacations? Then look no further than Jeremy and Stephanie Puglisi’s book RV Vacations from the Outdoor Adventure Guides series by DK. This guidebook has detailed itineraries for 40 of the best RV Vacations in the country. Each chapter has recommendations for campgrounds, restaurants, and attractions. There are also sidebars on trip highlights and recommended itineraries for one, two, and three week trips. Each chapter also has fun facts about the featured location that every traveller should know.

This book is split into five sections about five different regions that cover the entire country. Here is a brief sneak peak of what is inside the book!

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie give a sneak peak into the pages of the second edition of their book, Outdoor Adventure Guides: RV Vacations, click on the media player above or listen to the RV Atlas wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

The NortheastHere are the nine RV vacations that Jeremy and Stephanie highlight in their section on the Northeast.

1. Acadia National Park
2. White Mountains, New Hampshire
3. Vermont Fall Foliage
4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
5. Lake George and the Adirondacks
6. Niagara Falls
7. New York City
8. Pennsylvania Dutch Country
9. Washington, D.C.

Jeremy and Stephanie hail from the Northeast so this is their home stomping grounds and the part of the country that they have explored the most. They both pick Acadia National Park as their favorite RV destination in the Northeast because of its stunning mountains at the edge of the sea. They also both love all of the RV Vacations in New England, which is one of their favorite places to visit in the summer when the days are warm and nights are cool.

The SouthHere are the eleven RV vacations that Jeremy and Stephanie feature from the South.

1. Civil War Battlefield Tour
2. Shenandoah National Park
3. Kentucky Bourbon Trail
4. Mammoth Cave National Park
5. Memphis and Graceland
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
7. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
9. New Orleans
10. Walt Disney World
11. Florida Keys

As Northeasterners Jeremy and Stephanie love to escape their home state of New Jersey in the spring and head south for warmer weather and campgrounds that have their pools open and ready to go. Myrtle Beach is their go-to spot for spring break–but they both love camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness and on either side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The MidwestHere are the three epic RV Vacations that Jeremy and Stephanie feature from the Midwest.

1. Hocking Hills, Ohio
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
3. Mount Rushmore and the Badlands

Two of Jeremy and Stephanie’s favorite RV Vacations of all time are in this chapter. Their trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was an all-time favorite and so was their two-week trip to South Dakota to see the Badlands, Custer State Park, and Mount Rushmore. If you are looking for more great campground recommendations from the Midwest–don’t despair–just check out their bestselling book Where Should We Camp Next? A 50 State Guide to Amazing Campgrounds and other Unique Outdoor Accomodations for tons of other recommendations.

The SouthwestHere are the four epic vacations that Jeremy and Stephanie feature from the Southwest.

1. Route 66: Tulsa to Oklahoma City
2. Austin and San Antonia, Texas
3. Tucson, Arizona
4. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Jeremy and Stephanie both love the Southwest and would certainly like to spend more time there on future RV Vacations. Snowbirding in this part of the country is also an option that is often discussed. Jeremy would rather winter in Arizona than Florida. But with three kids still in school, this conversation is far from urgent. Jeremy and Stephanie both also love Texas and had an amazing time visiting Wine Country–and Austin and San Antonio.

The WestHere are the 13 epic RV Vacations that Jeremy and Stephanie feature from the American West.

1. Rocky Mountain National Park
2. Arches National Park
3. Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks
4. Las Vegas
5. San Diego
6. Napa Valley and San Francisco
7. California Gold Rush Tour
8. Yosemite National Park
9. Portland, Oregon
10. Coastal Washington Lighthouse Tour
11. Olympic National Park
12. Glacier National Park
13. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

When it comes to RV Vacations is the West better than the rest? Yes–Jeremy and Stephanie think it is. That’s why they packed this chapter with so many great options. Jeremy’s all-time favorite National Park is Olympic–Stephanie would go with either Acadia or Glacier. Their three sons, Max, Theo, and Wes would probably all pick Yellowstone.

What epic RV Vacations do you want to go on next? Drop us a note in the comments below and let us know. And don’t forget to pick up a copy of RV Vacations. It’s a terrific trip planning tool for experts and beginners alike!

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It was pretty much love at first sight when we walked into the Grand Design Imagine 2800BH. We knew that it wouldn’t be the perfect RV for our family–because after 12 years of RVing we don’t think that the perfect RV exists. At least not for us. If we purchased an RV with every single feature that we wanted–then it would be too long–and it wouldn’t be perfect for us. We know that every RV has its compromises–so we were looking for something that checked off a lot of boxes–but not necessarily all of them.

The Grand Design Imagine 2800BH checked off more boxes for us than any of the other contenders did. This 32 foot trailer hit a sweet spot for us when it comes to towability, comfort, interior and exterior storage, and fit and finish. Considering the reasonable price point, it is fair to say we were impressed.

Let’s take a tour of the Grand Design Imagine 2800BH and share what we love about it, and talk about a few small things that might be pain points for us.

To listen to Stephanie and Jeremy talk about why they bought a Grand Design Imagine 2800BH on the RV Atlas podcast–click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows.

The Spacious and Comfortable “Retro Funky” InteriorA Kitchen That Works for our FamilyComfortable Sleeping and Seating AreasLots of Thoughtful Interior Storage SpacesA Bathroom Fit For an RV King?A Stylish Exterior With Spacious StorageThe post Why We Bought a New Grand Design Imagine 2800BH appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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This past December Jeremy made the decision to not renew his contract with Ember as their brand ambassador. This was a tough decision for him, but he is confident it was the right decision. He wanted to give more of his time and attention to The RV Atlas podcast, the RV Atlas website, and to the books that he coauthors with Stephanie. Saying goodbye to Ember was bittersweet, but both Jeremy and Stephanie were excited to go RV shopping again–and shop widely across all of the brands in the industry for the first time in a long time.

To listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss their life and work updates, and to take a deep dive into their post pandemic RV shopping adventures, click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows. In the first episode of the new season of The RV Atlas they share the shortlist of RV’s that went under serious consideration. The list of their top five picks can be found below.

Option 1: Jayco Redhawk 31F or Greyhawk 31F Class COnce the dust settled and Jeremy and Stephanie started talking about shopping for a new RV, Stephanie suggested that they should consider purchasing a motorhome. Jeremy has wanted a motorhome for his entire life–going back to his childhood–and maybe this was the moment to fulfill that lifelong dream. After doing some initial research–Jeremy and Stephanie decided to consider purchasing a lightly used Jayco Redhawk or Jayco Greyhawk 31F. But they soon discovered that there were not many bargain priced used units around. So they started to consider purchasing a new one at their dealer, White Horse RV Center in Southern New Jersey. The 31F floorpan is perfect for their family, but the price of a new Class C was definitely something to consider.

Jayco Redhawk/Greyhawk Major Pro: Perfect Family Floorplan.

Jayco Redhawk/Greyhawk Major Con: Very Expensive.

Option 2: Rockwood Roo 233S Hybrid Travel TrailerJeremy and Stephanie also started to consider some very different options while they were motorhome shopping. Just in case they did not want to spend that motorhome money. Stephanie suggested that they consider purchasing a Rockwood Roo 233S because they have both always loved Rockwood Roos. The 233S is also a terrific floorpan for families that need a lot of sleeping space. A Rockwood Roo would also cost about 60-70K less than a motorhome, Definitely something to think about! Jeremy and Stephanie and the boys also moved into a Rockwood Roo for four nights several years ago when they were writing cover stories for Trailer Life Magazine. The loved the Rockwood Roo 235S that they tested and gave it a rave review. You can read that review right here.

The major con of buying a Rockwood Roo is that their dealer (that they both love so much) does not sell them. Leaving their dealer after 10 years of working with them would be a tough loss to say the least. But they really, really do love those Roos!

Rockwood Roo 233S Major Pro: Excellent Family Floorplan (and a budget-friendly price)

Rockwood Roo 233S Major Con: Rockwood is not carried by Jeremy and Stephanie’s dealer White Horse RV.

Option 3: Grand Design Momentum 23G or 25G Toy HaulerSince they were being very open minded about their RV options, Jeremy and Stephanie decided to visit White Horse RV Center and check out their complete inventory of RV’s. The Grand Design Momentum Travel Trailer Toy Haulers immediately caught their eyes. They both loved their Jayco Octane Toy Hauler (that they owned about four years ago)–and all of the kids miss it very much. Toy Haulers solve all of their gear hauling problems and make it easy to bring along bikes, surfboards, kayaks, whatever! Of course, Jeremy did not always love towing the toy hauler because of its extra height, width, and weight–but he did get used to it over time.

They both found the Grand Design Momentum Toy Haulers to be really, really nice–and they have options that are under 30ft long–which is quite appealing to Jeremy from a towing perspective. They both loved the fit and finish of the Grand Design toy haulers–and the quality seemed good. The tongue weight on both the 23G and 25G are quite heavy though–because both of those floorpans have bedroom slide outs up front. Jeremy does not think that tongue heavy RV’s tow as nicely as RVs that are lighter at the tongue–so this was a consideration. Jeremy and Stephanie’s F-250 could technically handle the job though.

Grand Design Momentum 23G and 25G Major Pro: Hauls ALL OF THE GEAR EASILY!

Grand Design Momentum 23G and 25G Major Con: Very Heavy Tongue Weight

Option 4: Grand Design Imagine 2800BH Travel TrailerAfter taking a close look at the Grand Design Momentum Toy Haulers, Jeremy and Stephanie decided to check out the Grand Design Imagine lineup. They ended up liking the 2800Bh the best out of all of the Imagine floorplans. This model packs in a lot of comfort and convenience in a 32 ft. package After downsizing into the much smaller 22 foot Ember last year–they were looking for a rig that was about 10 feet longer. Having a private bedroom again with a closable door was also at the top of their “wants” list. The fit and finish on the Imagine was impressive and the unit certainly had a comfortable feel and plenty of space and storage. However, the Imagine did not have a rear cargo door, or a receiver for a bike rack on the back of the coach. So hauling some of the family gear would be tricky in this unit.

Grand Design Imagine 2800BH Major Pro: Impressive Fit and Finish

Grand Design Imagine 2800BH Major Con: Limited Options for Hauling Bikes and Gear

Option 5: Winnebago Minnie 2801BHS Travel TrailerWhite Horse RV Center is also a Winnebago Dealer–so Jeremy and Stephanie decided to check out some of the Winnebago Travel Trailers as well. The Minnie 2801BHS has a similar floorplan to the Grand Design Imagine 2800BHS–so they also took that one under serious consideration. This floorpan does have some features that the 2800BHS does not have–like a walk-in wardrobe/pantry and a sink in the outdoor kitchen. The 2801BHS also has a rear cargo door, and a receiver on the back for a bike rack. This are all awesome features that put the Winnebago under serious consideration. However, Jeremy and Stephanie did like the general fit and finish and the interior better on the Grand Design. The Grand Design Imagine 2800BH also does have a drop frame chassis up front–so the front cargo bin is much larger than the one on the Winnebago.

Winnebago Minnie 2801BHS Major Pro: Better Storage and Gear Hauling Options

Winnebago Minnie 2801BHS Major Con: Much Smaller Front Cargo Bin than the Grand Design

So which of these RV’s did Jeremy and Stephanie end up buying? Tune into the next episode of The RV Atlas and check back right here on thervatlas.com for a complete review of their new rig!

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There are over 75 Jellystone Parks across the country, and each one of them is very different. Some of them are quaint and rustic, with lots of activities for kids that harken back to summer camps of old, and others have off-the-hook water zones, gigantic water slides, laser tag courses–and much more. All of them are worth taking a look at for your next family vacation. But don’t assume that they all offer the same level of amenities and activities. Know before you go and do your research so you can pick a Jellystone that is right for your family. Here is a list of eight amazing Jellystone Parks across the country that represent the best the brand has to offer. There are so many other great Jellystone Parks across the country. So after you check out the eight parks below, head over to their website to find one near you.

Jellystone Park Golden Valley (North Carolina)This gorgeous campground is located along the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Asheville and Charlotte. The property is situated around a beautiful lake that is great for stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, fishing, and more. The RV sites here are very good, but those without an RV should not despair. This Jellystone’s cabins and glamping accommodations are award winning and have appeared in travel magazines and blogs across the country. The Mountain View Treetop Cabins look particularly cozy and charming. At the time of this writing the campground is building a Lookout Tower at the top of Cove Mountain that should make for a great family hike right on the property. Activities like zip-lining across the lake, and laser tag (to name just a few) will keep your kids occupied all week long.

Jellystone Park Estes Park (Colorado)This Jellystone Park’s location near Rocky Mountain National Park is absolutely stunning. The RV sites here climb up the side of the mountain, and many have sweeping views–so choose wisely based on the size of your rig. There are good hiking trails that are accessible right from the campground, so bring a comfy pair of hiking boots. The heated swimming pool is great for kicking back and relaxing after spending a day in the National Park. Don’t feel like cooking? The onsite Pic-a-Nic Basket offers up quick meals at reasonable prices. Combining a great Jellystone Park vacation with a national park adventure is always an epic option for making family memories.

Jellystone Park Lakes Region (New Hampshire)The location of this Jellystone in New Hampshire’s Lake Region looks absolutely epic. They have two sandy beaches right on Northeast Pond and the swimming is heavenly during the summer months. If the lake water is chilly then try the brand new activity pool with warming tubs. Contrary to popular belief, many Jellystone Parks are actually excellent for teenagers, and this is one of them. The basketball and GaGa ball courts, baseball field, laser tag course, and outdoor ping pong table will keep them occupied for hours. Want a hot tub delivered right to your waterfront RV site or cabin during your stay? Jellystone Park Lakes Region can make that happen. Just make sure you call ahead. The hot tubs (and the waterfront sites) are incredibly popular and sell out on most summer weekends.

Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave (Kentucky)This is the best camping option near Mammoth Cave National Park–especially for families. Jellystone Park Mammoth Cave has an awesome Wibit on Karst Beach, their own private lake. What is a Wibit? It’s an inflatable obstacle course and a wet and wild playground all wrapped into one. No matter how you describe it–it is a whole lot fun. Kentucky can get hot in the summertime, thankfully there are plenty of ways to stay cool at this popular Jellystone Park–playing on the Wibit is just one of them. Campers that love to fish will enjoy the stocked fishing pond with Bass, Bluegill, and Catfish galore. So bring your fishing poles and get ready to wet a line after a morning of exploring Mammoth Cave National Park.

Check out our video with 8 tips for visiting Jellystone Parks across the country. Or keep reading to find out about four more great locations.

Jellystone Park Guadalupe River (Texas)The water zone at this Jellystone looks off-the-hook with two waterslides and water cannons so you can have an epic family water war. In addition to the water zone, there are three outdoor swimming pools that make it easy to beat the Texas heat–even in the middle of the summer. This Jellystone Park is very pretty and the Guadalupe River is picture perfect for tubing and fishing, Visiting on a Halloween themed weekend? The Haunted Trail looks mighty spooky. Volleyball, Basketball, and GaGa Ball courts make this another Jellystone Park that is great for teens. Need a break from the hustle and bustle of this campground’s non-stop action? Their nature trails are lovely and feel like they belong in a state park.

Jellystone Park South Jersey (New Jersey)Yogi Bear is back in New Jersey! Thankfully he has found a terrific place to set up camp and steal some pic-a-nic baskets. Jellystone Park South Jersey is located in Williamstown, New Jersey, less than an hour away from Philadelphia and Wilmington, Delaware. The central hub of Jellystone Park South Jersey is situated along Crane Lake. Here you will find a super fun Wibit (an inflatable obstacle course) and areas for picnicking, swimming, renting boats, and plenty of room to fish. This is clearly a resort-styled campground, but the area around the lake has the look and feel of a state park. The Wibit (which has multiple slides, a trampoline area, and more) is the star of the show for kids and teenagers, but there is also a nice swimming spot right next to it where adults can do laps, or just relax and keep an eye on their kids. Jellystone Park South Jersey also has two pools. The more relaxing adult-centric pool is located right alongside the lake.The second pool is great for kids and has fun obstacles and splash pad features.

Jellystone Park Mill Run (Pennsylvania)Jellystone Mill Run is located in Western Pennsylvania, about 60 miles southeast of Pittsburgh. It’s surrounded by beautiful Laurel Highlands scenery. Although you can easily spend days without leaving the campground property the area is full of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Visitors rave about nearby Ohiopyle State Park with whitewater rafting, tubing, hiking, and zip lining. The Great Alleghany Passage bike trail passes right through the area as well. And of course, you can’t miss a visit to iconic Fallingwater, which you can learn more about from our review here. If we were to list all the activities and amenities offered at Jellystone Mill Run, our review would read more like a phone book. One of the highlights were the waterslides from the 1970’s that are apparently the longest waterslides currently in Pennsylvania. Let’s just say they don’t make them like they used to. Our whole family raced down these two slides probably over a hundred times during our long weekend stay. The prices here are also quite reasonable.

Jellystone Park Whispering Hills (Ohio)Jellystone Park Whispering Hills is a beautiful campground retreat located about an hour and a half southwest of Cleveland, in Big Prairie, Ohio. This campground manages to offer all the greatest aspects of a Jellystone Park (family-friendly activities and amenities galore) while still feeling peaceful and relaxing. We highly suggest reserving in advance if you are visiting on a summer weekend. Weekdays are much quieter, even during the summer peak season. Pull thrus and back in sites are available here, but you will want to look at a campground map to see what section would suit your family best. This is the type of Jellystone that appeals to all guests no matter what their age. The very youngest children, teens, and adults will find plenty to appreciate at Whispering Hills. Guests love the emphasis on recreation with two Gaga ball pits, mini golf, and a beautiful frisbee golf course.

To learn even more about Jellystone Parks and to find a location close to you check out their website right here.

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Reportedly, the word glamping was coined in the United Kingdom circa 2005. Eleven years later, in 2016, it made its debut in the Oxford English Dictionary. The term (and the type of outdoorRead More

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There are 75 Jellystone Park locations across the country, and each one of them is very different. Some of them are quaint and rustic, with lots of activities for kids that harken backRead More

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Are you looking to become a snowbird and spend the winter months enjoying the gorgeous white sugar sand beaches and sparkling waters of Florida’s Emerald Coast? Or are you just looking for aRead More

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Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio will have you wondering if you are still in the Midwest. With its waterfalls and unique geological features, it feels more like an exotic location in New Zealand. Yet, it's only 50 miles from Columbus, Ohio, and only 30 miles from Athens, home of Ohio University.

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The Hersey RV Show is not the best show in the country for spotting RV trends. The big three (Thor, Forest River, and Winnebago) dominate the landscape here. The show is packed withRead More

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Does Little Arrow RV Resort live up to the hype that it has been receiving these past few years? Sorry to spoil the ending, but we think that it does. This is aRead More

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Are you looking for something new and unexpected for your next great road trip? Then why not take a good look at Maryland’s Scenic Byways?  An RV, cabin, or tent camping trip alongRead More

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park is surrounded by a wide variety of camping options for RV owners. But none of them are quite like Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Lodge in Pigeon Forge.Read More

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Yogi Bear is back in New Jersey! Thankfully he has found a terrific place to set up camp and steal some pic-a-nic baskets. Jellystone Park South Jersey is located in Williamstown, New Jersey,Read More

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Where are the best fall camping destinations in the country? We asked our friends at Campspot to come on The RV Atlas podcast this week and share their top picks. They came upRead More

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Maine is quite possibly one of the most beautiful places to camp in the U.S. RVers have so many magnificent choices that it can be hard to decide where to go. Hopefully, this roundup of the best campgrounds in Maine can help you develop your bucket list.

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Have you ever been on a family vacation and wondered how much more of a vacation it would be without the kids? Once you have teenagers, you quite likely can go RVing without kids, but should you leave them home alone? Before deciding whether they should stay home or go with you, there are some considerations, pros, cons, and preparations you should think through.

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The St. Augustine Beach KOA Holiday is a solid basecamp option for exploring the east coast of northern Florida.  We truly love this campground’s location. This region of Florida can often get overlookedRead More

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This post about RVing in Oregon is the latest in a series of posts and podcasts about underrated destinations for RV travel. Make sure to check out the other underrated destinations in thisRead More

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Most RV owners have a National Park’s bucket list. Whether its Yellowstone, Yosemite, Acadia or Denali, most RV owners know exactly what NPS units they want to visit next. But how many RVRead More

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Do American’s Know How to Camp Responsibly on Public Land? The story is almost a cliche at this point. America’s most popular National Parks (and the campgrounds within them) are overcrowded. So areRead More

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Many of our fans and podcast listeners love to cook at the campground using cast iron. For some of you that might mean bringing a 10 or 12 inch skillet and making eggsRead More

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The Brattleboro North KOA has been an RV Atlas favorite for over a decade. We made our first visit back in our pop up camper days. Then we returned with friends a fewRead More

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Lakewood Camping Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is one of the biggest RV campgrounds in the country. We are exciting to bring you a campground review since it is in Myrtle Beach, the camping capital of the East Coast (in our opinion!). Lakewood Camping Resort is more like a small town for campers. With a lazy river and waterslides, it's nonstop fun.

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We know how much you all love campground reviews, so we are excited to bring you a few from our spring break trip, starting with the Wilmington KOA Holiday in Wilmington, NC. ThisRead More

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If you are looking for an ultimate family-friendly campground destination, you have to check out Lighthouse Point. Lighthouse Point is a campground located next to Cedar Point, an amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio.

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We loved our pop up camper. It was our first RV and we spent two years in it camping up and down the East Coast and falling in love with the RV lifestyle.Read More

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Do you enjoy making delicious drinks while you are at the campground? Are you looking to stock up your RV bar and take your mixing skills to the next level this summer? ThenRead More

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Who doesn’t love eating a delicious breakfast at the campground? We certainly do! Some mornings we keep it light and simple, especially if we are heading out for a hike or an activeRead More

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Want to do some baking at the campground but don't have a stove? The Omnia Stove is a cool cookware gadget that will let you live your baking dreams. This versatile circular oven is great for campers who don't have a built-in oven, since it is super easy to transport and to use.

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Our camping buddy and RV Atlas correspondent, Phil Travaglia, is back on the podcast today to talk about taking an RV trip to Cape Cod! Last time he gave us an enthusiastic reviewRead More

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Utah is one of the most beautiful states for RV travel in our entire country. It’s not just “The Mighty Five” that make this state great. Every inch of it seems to beRead More

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These are the show notes for the third of three guest appearances by Lauren Eber, from @afamwithavan about spring desert camping in the great American west. In this three part trilogy Jeremy interviewsRead More

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These are the show notes for the second of three guest appearances by Lauren Eber, from @afamwithavan about spring desert camping in the great American west. In this three part trilogy Jeremy interviewsRead More

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These are the show notes for the first of three guest appearances by Lauren Eber, from @afamwithavan about spring desert camping in the great American west. In this three part trilogy Jeremy interviewsRead More

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On this episode of The RV Atlas podcast, and here in this post, we recommend some amazing gear for outdoor adventure, the ultimate campfire kit, and for your camp kitchen! This is part twoRead More

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Hiking with kids can be a transcendent experience that changes them, and you, forever. Or it can be a miserable experience that no one in your family will ever want to repeat. ItRead More

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Spring is in the air and that means that it is time for our annual RV Atlas spring gear guide! This year we have so much new gear to review that we areRead More

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Stephanie and Jeremy visited Mama Gertie’s Hideaway over a decade ago (with Max and Theo) soon after they bought their first pop up camper. It was a magical campground that made a lastingRead More

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We love taking taking RV trips to cities like Washington and Philadelphia. It seems like you can park your RV close to just about any major American city. You just need to knowRead More

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River Run RV Resort is a brand new campground that brings a true resort-level experience to the Rocky Mountain National Park region. Whether you are looking for a base camp for touring RMNPRead More

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Jeremy Shakes Down the Ember Overland Series 191MDB For years Stephanie and I have been advising RV owners to take their first “shakedown trips” at campgrounds that are close to home. Plenty ofRead More

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On the first two episodes of the 2022 season of the RV Atlas podcast, we talked about Stephanie’s “new-to-her” 2018 Basecamp. Now it is Jeremy’s turn to step up to the mike andRead More

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The 2,000 mile Airstream Basecamp Shakedown Trip She did what she would NEVER recommend anyone else doing. She went on her first trip with the 2018 Airstream Basecamp 16 down to Florida andRead More

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The RV Atlas podcast is back for the 2022 SEASON with a series of life (and rig) updates from Jeremy and Stephanie. The big news is that we are a two RV familyRead More

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We are back with our last episode of the 2021 fall/winter season of The RV Atlas podcast with 16 Tips for RV Show Shopping in 2022. We have covered this topic in theRead More

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What goals do we have for the year ahead? How about you? Today, we are sharing camping resolutions for 2022 from Stephanie, Jeremy, the listeners, and the Facebook group with you! 

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Ice fishing AND camping? Count us in! Hannah and Dave are here to tell use all about their outdoor adventures in Minnesota. Growing up, they both went camping with their families. Now, they continue that tradition with their two little boys. During the winter months, they add a twist that might be unusual to those of us who aren't from the North: camping in a portable "ice house."

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It's the end of the year, so you know what that means: It's time for our 2021 camping highlights! Sure, there were limitations. Our camping trips were limited somewhat by our busy schedule and by ongoing restrictions in place because of COVID-19.

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Today, we are here to help you overcome RV wInterization blues with 12 new tips for 2022!  We have seen the sad posts on the Facebook group of our RVing friends injecting the pink drink into your rigs. The doldrums of winter are about to set in.

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Let's take a look at our most popular RV Atlas episodes from 2021! When we look at a year's worth of podcasting data, it reveals some interesting things about us, our podcast, and the state of camping and RVing. 

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If you need gear for your camp kitchen, a camping-themed book, or camping-related decorations for your home, you are in the right place! This is Jeremy's holiday gift picks!

The post Jeremy’s Holiday Gift Picks: Camp Kitchen, Books, Gifts for Home, and More! appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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This holiday gift guide is bursting with Stephanie’s favorite picks from THREE different gift guides that she helped create this year! First, she shares her favorite picks from Togo RV’s 2021 Holiday GiftRead More

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Grand Tetons National Park is defined by its breathtaking mountains, pristine lakes, and scenic trails. It's also a great place for families. If you want to explore Grand Teton National Park with kids, we have some great tips for you.

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Should you go to Cody, Wyoming, if you are short on time and debating how to spend it in the greater Yellowstone area? YES!  Cody is a great place to take a breakRead More

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Is it possible to see Yellowstone in just three days with three kids along for the journey? We found out! Though it might take a lifetime to see all of this truly massive national park, you can see a lot of it in three days.

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Under Canvas Yellowstone provides a full-on glamping experience right outside of Yellowstone National Park, but how does it compare to the RV camping our family loves? Though we originally weren't sure about "glamping" as a trend, this ended up being one of the most magical camping experiences we have ever had. We have lots of great details to share after our three-day stay in August.

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Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial On The Road is back on The RV Atlas podcast this week and she is our guest blogger here as well! Check out her recent post and interviewRead More

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Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial On The Road is back on The RV Atlas podcast this week and she is our guest blogger here as well! Check out her recent post and interviewRead More

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On today’s episode of the The RV Atlas podcast we are excited to have Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial On The Road back on the show to talk about part of her family’sRead More

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Today I am so excited to welcome a first time guest correspondent on to the show to give us a terrific campground review of Robert Treman State Park in Ithaca, New York! TheRead More

The post Ithaca is Gorges! Robert Treman State Park and More… appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Shellie Bailey-Shah is back on the show today for another great episode of The RV Atlas podcast! Today she is sharing 10 tips for surviving a multi-family RV trip in one RV! ToRead More

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We are thrilled to have our friend Shellie Bailey-Shah back on the show this week for an awesome review of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Guadalupe River in Kerrville, Texas! This was a shortRead More

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Today’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast is a behind the scenes look at the first four episodes of “6 Things I Love About My RV,” Jeremy’s brand new YouTube and IGTV showRead More

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Hey Boo Boo! Stephanie is back on The RV Atlas podcast this week for our review of Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Delaware Beaches! On today’s episode of the podcast we give an overviewRead More

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On this week’s episode of The RV Atlas podcast we are back with part two of our California beach camping series! In episode one our good friend Lauren Eber (from @afamwithavan on Instagram)Read More

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Casita Dean May is back on the RV Atlas for the second week in a row with another jam packed episode! Last week Dean gave us a detailed review of the Townsend/Great SmokiesRead More

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Casita Dean May is back on The RV Atlas podcast with a fresh review of the Townsend/Great Smokies KOA Holiday. Dean and his wife Laura consider this to be one of the topRead More

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Marc and Julie Bennett from RV Love are, quite simply, two of the smartest and kindest people working in the RV content creation space today. Stephanie and I are huge fans of theirRead More

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The journey on Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica is certainly America’s most iconic road trip. Route 66 is called the mother road–and for good reason. But this iconic road is aRead More

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On today’s episode of The RV Atlas we are heading west for a review of four amazing campgrounds in the Pacific Northwest that you are going to want to add to your bucketRead More

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Today on the RV Atlas podcast we welcome Patrick Botticelli from New Jersey Outdoor Adventures back onto the show for another great episode. Patrick has come on the show before to talk aboutRead More

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Have you wondered what it would be like to dry camp at a major racing event like the Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona International Speedway in Florida? I certainly have, even though IRead More

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Our guest on today’s episode of The RV Atlas is Terence Young, the author of Heading Out: A History of American Camping, a delightful book about America’s real favorite pastime. Terence is also ProfessorRead More

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Jellystone Luray is, quite simply, one of the best family campgrounds in the country. The RV Atlas crew visited about 6 years ago and we absolutely loved it! You check out our originalRead More

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The spring of 2020 was a crazy difficult time for all of us, right?  We had to cancel several of our early and mid-spring RV trips because of Covid restrictions–and because we reallyRead More

The post Our Return to Lake George and Moose Hillock NY appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Summer is in the air here at RV Atlas headquarters and we are looking forward to lots of beach days, camping trips, and baseball games.  And to be quite honest–we have been talkingRead More

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Books give us an opportunity to journey across space and time in other's real-life or fictionalized adventures. We are excited to bring you this list of great books with travel themes.

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Have you ever dreamed about taking an epic RV trip to Big Bend National Park in Texas? It seems like it is a world away from everything which makes a trip there seemRead More

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Hey everybody! Time to guard your pic-a-nic baskets! Today on the RV Atlas podcast (and here on the blog) we are updating you on all the new Jellystone Parks that have been addedRead More

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We are excited to bring you this list of 10 "must see" spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park--and the beautiful photos to accompany them.

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This bunkhouse roundup takes a look at 8 great large bunkhouse trailers to see what you can get in a trailer longer than 30 feet.

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We are fresh back from a quick spring back trip to Carolina Lines in Conway, South Carolina and we had an amazing time and thank goodness–some very good weather! We made a lastRead More

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If you have followed the RV Atlas or listened to our podcasts for any length of time you know that we take our gear guides seriously. When we recommend camping gifts, or campingRead More

The post Camping Gifts, Gear, Games and Books That We Love RIGHT NOW! appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We asked the members of the RV Atlas facebook group for the best camping hacks and man oh man did they deliver! Here are 20 of the best hacks from a thread thatRead More

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On today’s episode of the RV Atlas podcast I decided to get a little selfish. From time to time I like to invite folks on the show to teach me about something thatRead More

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Planning an RV Trip to Savannah, Georgia should be on every RV owner’s bucket list! This week, guest blogger Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial and Boxy Colonial on the Road is here toRead More

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On today’s episode of the The RV Atlas podcast we are talking to Rob Cochran from Togo RV about tips for dewinterizing an RV.  Rob is “the Head of RV Service at TogoRead More

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featured image provided by MPOWERD I am a gear junkie through and through and I love talking camping gear and outdoor brands with anyone that will listen. On today’s episode of the RVRead More

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Have you ever dreamed about owning an Airstream and hitting the open road? I certainly have. Most RV owners probably do at some point. When Stephanie and I went on our first tentRead More

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“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” – John Muir Casita Dean May is back on today’s episode of The RV Atlas to talk about the past, present, and futureRead More

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featured image by Scott Elias On today’s episode of the RV Atlas podcast we are thrilled to have Scott Elias back on our show! After a hiatus of over two years Scott isRead More

The post Colorado Campground Review: Ouray Riverside Resort! appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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It is a question that is almost as old as camping itself. It is a question that has vexed camping philosophers and campfire quarterbacks for years! Should I get a camp grill, aRead More

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Our camping buddy and RV Atlas correspondent, Phil Travaglia, is back on the podcast today with another great review! Last time he gave us an enthusiastic review of Hither Hills in Montauk, NewRead More

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I need a relaxing spring break camping trip really, really bad! I bet you do too. It’s been a long winter and cold weather has been beating down on many of us inRead More

The post Campspot’s Top Ten Trending Camping Destinations for Spring Break appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Who is ready to go glamping? Our brand new book, Where Should We Camp Next? A 50 State Guide to Amazing Campgrounds and other Unique Outdoor Accomdations has over 300 total campgrounds recommendationsRead More

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Our brand new book, Where Should We Camp Next? A 50 State Guide to Amazing Campgrounds and other Unique Outdoor Accomdations has over 300 total campgrounds recommendations with 5-11 reviews in each state.Read More

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This roundup brings you four great midsize bunkhouses, which range in length from 24 to 29 feet. Check out these family-friendly favorites.

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We are so excited to talk about America’s newest national park on today’s podcast and here on The RV Atlas blog. Huge thanks to freelance writer Kate Morgan (bykatemorgan.com) for coming on theRead More

The post America’s Newest National Park! West Virginia’s New River Gorge appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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Where Should We Camp Next? Deep Background! Two books in two years…. It’s kind of hard to believe we pulled it off. And why did we even try in the first place? WhereRead More

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It’s time for our fifth annual effort to beat back the winterization blues! This winter we are tapping into two European lifestyle trends that have real staying power. Our tips are based around suggestionsRead More

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Happy New Year everyone!! We typically wrap up a year of podcasting with an episode dedicated to our travel highlights from the past year. But this year got a little complicated didn’t it?Read More

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Stephanie and I have been in the thick of planning our summer 2021 camping trip to Yellowstone National Park. So we thought we would take you along for the ride on today’s episode ofRead More

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This guest post about travel themed decor was written by our friend Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial, and Boxy Colonial on the Road. To listen to Gretchen and Jeremy discuss this topic click on the media player above, or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts! Gretchen has been on the podcast many times over the years, check out some of her other great episodes here and here.

Winter can be a tough time for RVers. Memories of summer travel start to fade while long months too cold for camping stretch out before us. But our homes are more than just places to sleep in between trips; at their best they’re a reflection of who we are and the things we value. We’ve always loved to travel, but when we started RVing five years ago, we found the reminders of the places we’ve been creeping into our home decor more and more, and we love it that way. Here are six ideas for filling your home with all the things you love about your travels to keep those memories close even when the next trip seems way too far away.

Use Souvenirs in Holiday Decorating

Lots of people enjoy picking up Christmas ornaments from gift shops as they travel; bringing them out come December is a great way to remember all the places you’ve been over the years. Or you can get crafty for a low cost alternative to store bought ornaments. How about salt dough ornaments in the shapes of all the states you’ve visited? Make a garland or origami ornaments from old maps. When our souvenir magnet collection started to get out of hand, I bought some heavy duty magnetic tape and some wooden craft circles and turned them into temporary ornaments. Now we put two trees up every year, and one of them is entirely travel themed.

Think Beyond the Obvious

There’s more to souvenir shopping than magnets and t-shirts, and there’s more to travel themed decor than a photo on the wall of your family in front of the Grand Canyon. Look for things that truly capture what you love about a place. While you’re traveling, find shops that sell things made by local artists or artisans; a lovely piece of pottery or wood carving from a local craftsman will always remind you of the place you bought it even if it doesn’t have the name or image of that place on it.

When we went to Nashville for my husband’s 40th birthday, we came home with a commemorative poster that local printer, Hatch Show Print, made for the Jason Isbell concert we went to. If you’re going to a performance or seeing a limited time exhibit on your travels, a commemorative print could make a great souvenir that few other people will have.

It’s Okay to Wait Until You Get Home to Shop Browsing a gift shop in a national park can be a great experience, and for many people souvenir shopping is an important part of a trip. But trying to make decisions about what to bring home while kids tug on your sleeve and you’re running late for a ranger talk can also be stressful and overwhelming. Fortunately, we live in world where you can find just about anything on the internet and have it at your house in a matter of days. A little time and distance from your trip can also help clarify which parts were the most meaningful to you and which memories you want to represent in your home. As a bonus, the online shopping itself can help you relive your trip and find travel themed decor that fits perfectly into your home.

Don’t Forget Vintage

If vintage finds fit in with your travel themed decor aesthetic, you can turn to eBay or Etsy or even local thrift shops and antique malls for some wonderful, low cost souvenirs. Souvenir plates, for example, are very easy to find from any state or major city or tourist attraction you’ve visited. We have a cheerful collection of these on the wall of our sunroom. Reproductions of old travel posters are very popular lately and are usually reasonably priced or are available for free online to print out yourself. I’ve printed out some wonderful vintage national park maps from the David Ramsey Map Collection (https://www.davidrumsey.com). Our thrifted vintage bison tapestry reminds us of our trip out west to the Badlands and Yellowstone even though we didn’t actually buy it in a park.

Kids’ Rooms are a Great Place To Go a Little Over the Top

Most of these tips are about tucking little reminders of your travels here and there throughout your home: a tasteful figurine on the bookshelf or a vintage poster in a grouping of artwork above your sofa. But if you happen to have a kid who shares your affinity for travel-related decor (or is too young to protest), it’s a perfect opportunity to unleash all of your inner sense of whimsy. When we were decorating a “big kid” room for my youngest, we did a full national parks theme, complete with prints from Creative Action Network’s See America project, an NPS arrowhead logo-shaped chalkboard, bison-stamped curtains (we have a lot of bison around here), and a bookshelf lined in fabric with a cool mountain print.

Use Your Travel Photos Creatively But Sparingly

We’re all familiar with the usual ways of displaying photos: family portraits marching down a hallway or up a staircase. But your personal photos of the places you’ve been can also play a role in your decorating. Even if you don’t consider yourself a great photographer, a simple snapshot of somewhere you love can look great with a little editing—make it black and white and suddenly it’s artsy! And make sure to pay for quality printing. Most of my travel photography stays on my blog or in photo books we have printed, but I also add some to my walls here and there. One of my Grand Canyon photos is part of a grouping of art in our dining room. Photos of my youngest son at various national parks sites are in a gallery wall in his national parks room. Our upstairs bathroom has a lot of nautical touches, so I hung up a print of a favorite photo of the Bluenose II in Nova Scotia.

Thanks to Gretchen for walking us through some of her best tips for integrating travel themed decor into our homes! Hopefully she inspired you to shop for souvenirs wisely during your next RV trip!

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Hither Hills Campground We have wanted to visit and review Hither Hills Campground, in Montauk, New York for years! But from our home at the Jersey Shore it could take 3.5 hours(or 6 hours) to get there, depending on traffic. We would also have to tow our RV over the George Washington Bridge. We have towed over the GW before–but it is not exactly fun. Our buddy Phil Travaglia camps at Hither Hills on the regular and we finally decided to have him on for a review. We are so glad we did. Phil loves camping at Hither Hills and he loves exploring Montauk. His passion for this beautiful place really comes to life in our interview with him.

During Phil’s last trip to Hither Hills he met the team behind Sunny Day Camper Rentals. He was very impressed with their rental service and wanted to recommend it to anyone who doesn’t own an RV and might want to camp on Hither Hills, or anywhere on Long Island. Sunny was also kind enough to provide a few of the pictures below! All Thank you Sunny!! All other photos are by Phil! To ready more about Sunny Day Camper Rentals scroll down to the end of the post.

To listen to Phil and Jeremy discuss Hither Hills Campground click on the media player above. Or just keep reading Phil’s great guest blog post to find out all of the information you need to visit Hither Hills and Montauk.

Guest Post by Phil Travaglia: Layout of Hither Hills Campground

The campground is divided into two main loops: the East Loop and the West Loop separated by a roundabout and a beachfront visitors center. The East loop and West are predominantly RV sites. Then there is a smaller “Tent only” loop called the “J Loop”. This loop does not allow generator use. The visitors center (pre-Covid) has a large community room geared towards environmental education for kids. There are “hands on” learning tables and the campground has a permanently staffed environmentalist who provides educational programs and hikes for the campers.

Photo Provided by Sunny Day Camper Rentals

All of the sites are considered oceanfront sites. The campground is separated from the ocean by a single row of dunes that run the length of the campground. You hear the ocean literally from every site. The camping is dry camping with water spigots interspersed throughout the campground for filling your tanks. They have designated hours when you can run your generators and the location is excellent for those who have solar set ups.

The majority of the sites are listed for 30 foot rigs . The sites right up against the dunes are for smaller rigs up to 20 feet and there are seventeen sites that I counted that can take 40 foot rigs. There are four bath houses with showers. Personally, I have only checked out two of them. The West loop bath house is likely the original bath house for the park. It is older, but it is clean and well maintained. The East loop bath house is much newer and is very nice. Also, this one is clean and well maintained with modern shower stalls.

There is a nice camp store on the grounds during the peak season. There is a very nice playground as well as a baseball/ softball field, basketball and some of the nicest oceanfront beach on Long Island.

Tips for Visiting Hither Hills Campground During Peak Season Photo Provided By Sunny Day Camper Rentals

There is a seven night minimum for renting campsites at Hither Hills during peak season which runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Camp fires are also not allowed during this time. I asked about this and was told that they do this during the peak season for a few reasons: One is to cut down on the smoke… The layout of this campground is flat with low bushes and trees (typical for beach camping on the East Coast) during the peak season the campground fills up and the smoke from everyone’s fires can become a bit much for some.

The second reason is fire prevention. The campground is very exposed as you would imagine and the grass and brush can become very dry Combine that with fires and wind and there is the potential for a brush fire.

Hither Hills Campground offers organized activities such as: sandcastle contests, beach volleyball and environmental education programs to name a few. The camp store is open, however, I have not been in it. I’ve been told, they have the essentials… Like, breakfast and lunch sandwiches as well as serve ice cream.

Tips for Visiting Hither Hills Campground During the Shoulder Seasons There is a two night minimum. Any single night openings are let out on a first come first served basis. Camp fires are allowed but they must be in raised containers. The camp store is closed during the shoulder seasons, but not to fear… there is a great bagel shop about a half a mile from the campground called Goldeberg’s Bagels. They have excellent coffee and the best everything flagels I’ve ever had.

There are no organized activities at this time.

Getting Reservations at Hither Hills Campground Photo provided by Sunny Day Camper Rentals

All reservations are made via the Reserve America reservation system. This is an extremely popular campground and sites fill up almost immediately once reservations are open. You can reserve sites up to nine months in advance. The fee for New York state residents is $35/ night. The Fee for Non-residents is $70/ night Also, there are the Reserve America fees as well for changing, cancellations etc.

Things To Do Around Hither Hills Campground

There is an over abundance of things to do in this area of Long Island. If you head East from the campground, you head directly into the town of Montauk. You will see beautiful country and you may even recognize some landmarks from the television series “The Affair” i.e you will pass the horse stables featured in the show on the left side of the road heading into Montauk. Montauk itself is a charming town with great food, culture and history. It also has a variety of local shops. Continue through Montauk for about 4 miles and you come to the Montauk Lighthouse. The Montauk lighthouse is a National Historic Monument. It is the fourth oldest lighthouse in the United States and was the first lighthouse built in New York State. It was commissioned to be built by congress under George Washington in 1792.

The lighthouse also has a wonderful museum, gift shop and three and a half acres of grounds and structures to explore. Currently, the museum and the lighthouse are closed due to Covid, However, a curator told me that the grounds are open for a self guided tour for a reduced admission fee. Parking at Montauk State Park (which is right next to the lighthouse) is free if you show your Hither Hills window tag at the gate. There is a separate visitor center located next to the lighthouse with a nice viewing deck overlooking the ocean. It is a nice structure with seating, restrooms and food available.

Montauk State Park has many great hiking trails in the immediate area surrounding the lighthouse which give you direct access to the coastline (where you will often see seals and on the rare occasion–whales). They even have scheduled winter seal hikes for those listeners that don’t live too far and are looking for an outdoor day trip.

Just before the entrance to the lighthouse, you will see a sign for Camp Hero State Park. This is a unique and very popular attraction. It is actually the grounds of an abandoned WWII coastal defense station. There are several structures still intact including a giant radar dish and the soldiers barracks. Apparently, this was established to detect enemy vessels approaching the U.S. I was told that you cannot go into the buildings , but you can explore the grounds around them. It is recommended that prior to visiting, you should do a little research about the facility. There is not a lot of actual on-site information available about the structures. A little pre-visit reading makes the whole experience much more interesting.

Another popular place to visit while out in Montauk is the Ditch Plains Beach area. This beach is a well known surfing beach located on the Montauk peninsula. There even are local shops where you can sign up for surfing lessons if you’re feeling adventurous. Shadmoor State Park is also known for its hiking trails which run along the bluffs of the coast line.

There is horseback riding, tennis, golf, cycling in the area. Also, one of my favorites, the fishing charter boats. You can charter a fishing trip on one of the many locally owned fishing boats for a great day on the water. The captains of the boats really know the local waters and always seem to find the fish. There are also restaurants in the area like the Star Island Grill that will cook your catch! The deckhands filet your catch and you can actually bring it to the restaurant and they prepare it for you!

My buddies and I used to go to a great Chinese place called the “Wok and Roll” with our catch and they would prepare our favorite Chinese dishes using our fish. Sadly it is no longer open, but there are places that still do this. If you ask the deckhands, I’m sure they’ll be able to name a few.

Food and Shopping in Montauk and Surrounding Towns There are too many amazing places to eat to mention them all. It is safe to say, there is no shortage of dining during the summer and early shoulder months. There is a variety of shopping and dining in the area. One area that combines them both is the Gosmans’ dock area. There they have a great waterfront restaurant, a fish market and plenty of shops right on the water. The fish market at Gosmans’ Dock makes daily deliveries to the Fulton Fish Market in NYC and actually supplies a great deal of the East Coast with fresh seafood.

Don’t forget the surrounding towns. These include the Hamptons and the quaint little town of Sag Harbor. As with Montauk, you will find an abundance of shops and restaurants. There is so much to do in each of these towns you’ll have to come back again and again.

Phil’s Personal Notes The Shoulder seasons have been the real secret for us. There are more sites available and for the most part, Long Island weather is fairly mild in the fall and the spring. This may be the way to get out here and decide whether you would like to spend a week in the summer. There are very little, if any bugs during these seasons.

The East End of Long Island is beautiful in the fall with many seasonal activities (pumpkin picking, wineries etc.) My absolute favorite thing about this place is the night sky. There is very little light pollution this far out on the Island and the night skies are second to none. When the camp fires are out and the moon is up, it feels like you are in a planetarium, we bring the telescope every time.

Sunny Day Camper Rentals

There is a great way to consider checking this campground out without too much work. There is a locally owned camper rental business called Sunny Day Camper Rentals – Link:

www.sunnydaycamperrentals.com

I have been to Hither Hills Campground about five times and every time I’ve been there, I have always seen campers from Sunny Day. On our last trip, I had the chance to speak briefly with Sunny and she told me that they set up and break down the campers. Pretty much all you do is show up. The campers looked like they were clean and well maintained. They have different types and sizes including pop-ups and hybrids. You can even rent generators and other camping equipment!

This is a great option if you do not want to drag your rig across the bridges to get to Long Island (if you are coming from out of state or upstate.) The East End of Long Island is New York’s own Cape Cod. There is so much food, shopping, history and culture to experience and Hither Hills gives you a great way to experience it.

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Have you ever dreamed of creating your own RV, vanlife, or travel based YouTube channel? Maybe you want to simply document your journeys for family and friends? Or maybe you want to become the next RV YouTube star and make money from your channel? Either way, having a good content creation strategy in place is essential. If you want a vibrant YouTube channel that people actually want to watch, then you need a plan. Our friend Patrick Botticelli is the host of the popular and long running New Jersey Outdoor Adventures channel on YouTube. When his channel passed 100k subscribers a few months ago, I knew we had to get him back on the show. Partly to celebrate the accomplishment, but more importantly–to tell us how he did it!

Patrick has appeared on the show before to talk about the debut of the 2020 Airstream Bambi and Caravel, and to talk about his own renovation of a classic 1961 Airstream Bambi. To listen to Patrick share his top ten tips for starting your own RV or #vanlife centric YouTube channel click on the media player above. Or just keep reading!

The History of New Jersey Outdoor Adventures

When Patrick initially started his channel it was about him and his outdoor adventures in New Jersey. He recorded tours of interesting locations and documented his mountain biking trips throughout the state. While he was out and about having fun he started to meet RV and van owners and he decided to record walk throughs of their rigs. That was when his channel really took off and started to pick up hundreds, and eventually thousands, of subscribers. At that point he pivoted and completely turned the focus of the channel to recording detailed walk throughs of vans and RV’s. The rest is history.

Here are Patrick’s ten best tips for starting your own RV or van-centric YouTube channel!

Define Your Audience

Patrick’s first tip for YouTube success is to DEFINE YOUR AUDIENCE. Are you creating content for yourself? As a sort of video diary to remember your adventures? Or, are you creating content to share with family and friends? Or do you want to create a monetized YouTube channel that could serve as a side hustle or full time career? You need to sort these things out as soon as you can and then create content with your primary goal in mind. If you want your YouTube channel to become a viable business like New Jersey Outdoor Adventures, then you need to deliver consistent content and stay on topic!

Figure Out What the Channel is About

To stay on topic you need to figure out what your channel is about and stick to it. Patrick started by doing videos of trails he was biking. But once he decided to focus on RV and van walk through videos he was incredibly disciplined about it. Patrick pointed out in our interview that many YouTubers have several channels to cover all of their interests. If you decide to do a YouTube show about RV modifications you should probably not throw in a cooking video every now or then. Your viewers that were implicitly promised RV mod videos may lose interest. Of course, if you are just doing your channel for fun, then post whatever you want. Just don’t expect your audience to grow or stick with you over time.

Create Content and Find Your Editing Style It might sound easy, but actually creating great content is more time consuming than most people think. Patrick and I recorded a tour of my Jayco Eagle HT 264BHOK so I had a behind the scenes look at how hard Patrick works to make New Jersey Outdoor Adventures happen.

There is preparation involved in making the video, recording the video, editing the video, and then marketing the video. Patrick easily puts 10-12 hours of work into each video. He has also learned that editing is incredibly important. The more time he spends on editing the videos the more he retains the interest of his audience. If a guest loses his or her train of thought, then that needs to get edited out–or Patrick’s audience might click off the video at that point.

Study the Analytics

Patrick definitely learns a lot by checking the google analytics on each video. He can see when people click on and click off, what his viewer demographics are, and whether people are watching on their laptops or mobile. All of this analytical information allows him to make decisions about his content and editing.

Grow Your Audience Through Collaborations

Patrick’s channel is very collaborative by nature. Each week’s show (or shows) features a walk through of someone else’s RV or van. This keeps the content fresh every week, but it also helps Patrick grow the audience for New Jersey Outdoor Adventures. Many of the people that Patrick interviews have social media followings of their own. His videos expose those people to his brand, and vice versa.

Monetizing Your Channel You can monetize your channel, but you need to play by YouTube’s terms of service. So make sure you know the platform’s rules so you don’t end up in violation of their terms of use. YouTube can turn on ads for your channel–but they can also turn them off. YouTube income is also notoriously unreliable. Even for someone like Patrick with a huge following. Some videos are hits, and others are not. It’s hard to know which ones will catch on. Patrick compares it to a musician or band putting out a song. You always want a hit, but you don’t always get one. Earning a reliable income from your YouTube videos is notoriously difficult. At least initially. But the possibility is always there.

Thinking About Sponsorships When your channel gets big, brands may start reaching out to you for possible collaborations, or even sponsorships. You should do a risk/reward analysis if they do. Do you believe in the brand’s products? Or is this just a financial transaction? If you recommend something that is poorly made or designed, then you are betraying your audience–and you risk losing their trust. But if you love the brand and believe in the products they make or sell, a sponsor based relationship can be valuable to you, and to your audience.

Consistency is King

If you are building a YouTube channel and you are committed to its success, then consistency is key. If you put out a video every week for 8 weeks and then flake off for a few weeks, your subscribers may lose interest. But being consistant is hard work, and you might not make much money when you are just starting out. But if you start to develop a following, and you enjoy creating the content–then the sky is really the limit. If you put in the hard work over a long period of time, then you could see great rewards.

Just ask Patrick. He knows.

And make sure you check out New Jersey Outdoor Adventures. It’s tons of fun, and might inspire you to renovate a van and hit the open road.

The post 10 Tips for Creating a YouTube Channel with New Jersey Outdoor Adventures appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We recently had the opportunity to test drive a 2021 Silverado LTZ Duramax Turbo-Diesel half ton through Chevy’s media loaner program. We were not payed to test the truck or told what to say. Our opinions always are our own. To hear us talk about our week with this Silverado click on the media player above, or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your shows! Or just keep reading!

Our History with Silverado

We do not currently own a Chevy. We own an F-250 that we are very happy with. But our first truck was a 2012 Silverado half ton (purchased used for about 20K) and sold many years later for 12K. It was a very good truck for our family and we have nothing but fond memories. It was reliable, capable, and good looking.

We jumped to a Ford F-150 (around 2017) because they were first to go to the lighter aluminum frames–not because we didn’t love our Chevy. I don’t come from a Ford family, a Chevy family, or a Ram family. And I’m pretty open minded when it comes to what truck comes next.

After test driving this Silverado, I’m thinking it might be another Chevy.

Getting the opportunity to test this Silverado LTZ Duramax Turbo-Deisel was a godsend for me. I’ve always been a half ton pickup guy in my heart. And the new breed of half ton diesels with great mpg is incredibly intriguing to me. The cold hard fact is that we use our truck more as a daily driver than as tow vehicle. Most of us do. So my F-250 has been great for towing–and not much fun for daily driving.

So the 2021 Silverado LTZ Duramax Turbo-Deisel that magically showed up in my driveway a few weeks ago looked like a pretty smoking hot daily driver to me. And it was. The cherry red tint coat, jet black leather interior, and slimmer half ton frame got me pretty excited. I wouldn’t be able to tow my beefy Eagle with this half ton. But I would get to drive all over New Jersey for a week. And I was more than ready to roll to some exciting places…like the grocery store, a few school pickups, and down to the beach for some tailgate grilling.

The Skinny on the Silverado LTZ Duramax Turbo-Deisel

So let’s cut to the skinny here. Our family loved this truck. It was fast and fun to drive and the 3L Duramax Turbo-Deisel performed like a champ. The MPG almost blew my mind. Chevy advertises 24 MPG combined/22 city/26 highway on this truck—-and that is almost exactly where we landed. For a long stretch on the highway to Island Beach State Park (under optimal towing conditions) it was clocking in at 28 MPG. Seriously.

So if you are looking for a half ton truck that is a luxurious and fuel efficient, then you should take a serious look at this Silverado. But if you are looking for a half ton with maximum tow and payload capacities–this is not the truck for you. It’s 9K tow capacity/1633 lb. payload/900 lb. tongue weight will tow a lot of trailers safely. But you would want to look elsewhere if towing something heavyish is your top priority. However, if you want to tow a modestly sized trailer (with a loaded weight of 7K or less) that would not too be too heavy for this Silverado’s 900 pound max tongue weight–and then have an amazing daily driver–then this truck could offer the best of both worlds.

Interior Comfort of the Silverado LTZ Duramax Turbo Deisel

I am a big guy with three growing boys, an awesome wife, and a moderately sized and super lovable dog, and this truck seated all of us comfortably–even luxuriously. I was surprised to see that Maggie fit so comfortably on the back floor of the crew cab. The room for her on the floor is deceptive because there is a ton of space carved out under the seats.

Maggie did not benefit from the heated front and rear seats, but the rest of the family did on cold mornings when we headed to school for drop-offs. I also think that the front cooled seats would come in handy during the hot summer months when the leather gets a bit hot for our butts. And that jet black leather? It made my heart race every time I sat down. I have never owned a truck with leather seats. It is on my bucket list to do so at some point soon.

Tech and Trailering Info So what else did we love about this truck? Most everything. The technology in this Silverado felt practical and usable. The front camera and eagle eye view from above made parking in tight spots a snap–and that is no small feet for a pickup. By pressing a button, the rearview mirror can utilize a camera as well, dramatically increasing the angle of the view behind you. Looking at this camera while driving made me a bit dizzy–but might not bother you.

The automatic tailgate function can be operated from the key fob or an interior button. This is nifty if you leave the tailgate down and get inside on a rainy day–or any day at all. The tailgate is also super light and our youngest son was able to raise it and lower it safely, without adult help. But the niftiest thing about this truck may be GM’s new tow capability sticker. The company deserves applause for putting this VITAL information in one place on every new truck that they are producing. This might be reason enough for me to jump back in a Silverado next time. For real. RV Owners everywhere should be celebrating.

The Big Picture? So would I buy this truck for myself? I would absolutely consider it if I was towing a trailer that weighed 7K loaded or less. And if I wasn’t an RV owner but wanted a half ton pickup truck? I would probably already have one in my driveway.

Cherry Red Tint Coat, please.

See You at the Campground!

–Jeremy

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We have covered Fort Wilderness and Disney World each year for the last four years. Our family spent three straight winter breaks at Fort Wilderness, and then last year we mixed it up and stayed at Wilderness Lodge. We love camping at Disney World, and we love the resort hotel experience as well. I think it’s fair to say that we are Disney nuts!

Unfortunately we decided to cancel our Disney World trip this year. But we still wanted to cover it on the podcast and see how they are operating during the pandemic. Is the experience just as magical? What is open and what is closed? Is it even safe to camp there and visit the parks? We needed to find out so we decided to invite our friends Lauren and Johann Schnell on to the podcast! They are both awesome people and they are both certified Disney nuts!. Thankfully they have the answers to all of these questions and more.

To listen to our interview with Johann and Lauren please click on the media player above or subscribe to the RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts!

Camping at Disney World (Fort Wilderness)

When it comes to camping at Disney World, Fort Wilderness is the only show in town if you ask us. The Fort is on Disney property and is considered to be a Disney “Resort.” Johann and Laura were very happy with the OVERALL experience at Fort Wilderness. Lauren works in the medical field and she felt very good about Disney’s strict masking policy. She said she would not have camped at the Fort if that wasn’t the case. Food options at the Fort are very limited. Much more so than at the resorts. It seems like Disney understands that RV owners can make their own food back at their rigs and is relying on them to do so without complaint. Sadly, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is closed and the cast members and staff have been laid off, But rumors are swirling that Disney is trying to bring it back soon.

Visiting the Parks During a Pandemic Johann and Lauren enjoyed visiting the parks but found that the quality of the experience varied from park to park. Here is a quick breakdown of how they both ranked the park experience from their favorite to least favorite.

1. Hollywood Studios

Johann and Lauren LOVED visiting Hollywood Studios during their most recent trip. They both feel that there are a lot of great ride options at Hollywood Studios (Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Rise of the Resistance, Slinky Dog Dash and more) and most of them had reasonable wait times. There are no fast passes at any of the parks right now due to logistical reasons. But this wasn’t a problem for Johann and Lauren at all. They felt like the number of awesome rides combined with reasonable wait times might Hollywood Studies there favorite park on this trip.

2. Magic Kingdom:

Johann and Lauren both felt that the Magic Kingdom still had the magic! They think that the park held the crowds (which were capped at 25% at that time) because there are just so many rides there to choose from. Ironically, the park still looked crowded because of the required spacing on the lines. They were also lines to get in and out of the stores. Character meet and greets are cancelled for the time being. But in their place are very cool character “cavalcades” where they characters come by in mini-parade fashion to entertain guests.

3. Animal Kingdom

Johann and Lauren felt that Animal Kingdom was fine. Flight of Passage only had an hour wait which was a highlight. Otherwise, the park did feel crowded. Ordering food was problematic because many places within Animal Kingdom don’t do mobile ordering. Everest was also down on the day they visited. So that may have made other rides more crowded. Lauren also loved that characters (some rare ones too!) were riding around on boats at Animal Kingdom greeting guests. Again, this was in place of character meet and greets.

4. Epcot

Johann and Lauren did not enjoy Epcot as much as they usually do. We think their reason why is very understandable and may even be a reason to skip Epcot until the pandemic ends. They both love walking around the “countries” in Epcot and sampling all of the good food and drinks. Our family loves doing that too. But because you can’t eat and walk around at the same time the typical Epcot experience is not really an option right now. Johann and Lauren are supportive of the masking policies–and this is the only experience that was really hampered by having to wear them.

When I asked Johann and Lauren what they missed the most, Lauren said character meet and greets. Johann said he didn’t miss anything. Because he takes his family to Disney to see their faces light up, and that’s exactly what happened on this trip. Same as it ever was.

They both would go back as soon as they can. Even during this pandemic.

The post What is it Like Camping at Disney World During a Pandemic? appeared first on The RV Atlas.

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We take our gear and gift guides seriously here at The RV Atlas. But we don’t believe in excessive consumerism around the holidays either (at least Stephanie doesn’t!). For us, it is not about buying a lot of gifts for the ones we love–but it is about buying the right gifts at the right price points. On this gear guide we are focusing on the needs and desires of gentlemen campers! These are fancy (but mostly affordable) gifts for men that love to work hard and play hard. Those are great gifts for fancy men that love to shop and are not afraid to moisturize. These are classic gifts for men who love to walk around the campground with a bit of style–and perhaps a splash of something fancy in their coffee cups!

Stephanie literally ran a mile away when I suggested this topic–so I decided to call upon my dear friend and fellow man shopper Jon Anderson. He is a gentlemen camper through and through and I knew he would have classy and sensible gift ideas to share. To say that he knocked it out of the park would be an understatement.

After Jon’s list of gifts I have my own list to offer my gentleman camper friends!

To listen to Jon and Jeremy discuss their lists and take themselves and their man gear WAY TOO SERIOUSLY, click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts. Or just read on right here! All of the gifts are listed below.

Happy holidays to all of the Gentlemen Campers out there and to the women and children that tolerate their many trips to Cabela’s, L.L. Bean, Ace Hardware, Sharper Image, or wherever it is that they go to run “errands” on a Saturday afternoon!

Jon’s List of Classic Holiday Gifts for Gentlemen Campers OneBlade Wet-Shave Razor ($20)

It’s 2020 and Jon is all about self-care this year. And for many men like Jon, self-care starts with a good shave at home. His recommendation in this department is based on a classic design–the single sided safety razor. This is how our grandpappies shaved in the 20’s and 30’s. When it comes to a good wet shave Jon loves the OneBlade “Core” for 20 bucks. You can also get a razor with 10 blades for 30 bucks. A pack of 30 extra blades is $30 on Amazon. Jon says he has tried them all–and this one is by far the best for a clean and comfortable shave.

Grip6 American Made Belts ($35)

Real gentlemen shave with their pants on and their pants up. And what man wants to walk around the campground with saggy pants? Not me–and not Jon Anderson. That’s why Jon recommends Grip6 American made belts–especially for those of us whose weight fluctuates throughout the winter–and perhaps even over the course of the day. Grip6 belts do not have notches. So they are more flexible and personalized based on waist size. They are also stylish and reliable–much like the gentleman camper in your life. Jon loves the “Men’s Classic Combo Pack” for $87. Because three belts are always better than one. They sell individually for about 35 bucks each.

Ridge Aluminum Wallet ($75 and up)

I have never owned a wallet that I really loved. The ones I have owned never fit all of my credit cards and camping club memberships without them spilling out of the sides. Jon, however, has fallen in love with his Ridge Aluminum Wallet for 75 bucks. This wallet is so slim and portable that he often forgets it is in his pocket. This wallet is practical and stylish, but its not exactly cheap. But Jon thinks it is worth every penny. You will too.

Muck Boots ($78 and up)

When Jon first shared his list with me these boots jumped out as something that I too would love. Muck Boots are rugged and well built for men who do physical work, but they are also stylish and comfortable for men who just want to keep their feet warm while walking their dog around a muddy state park campground. Again–these are not cheap. But Jon’s pair of Muck Boots (the Men’s Chore) is two years old and they still look and feel brand new. Muck Boots claims that their boots are “designed to brave any element.” Gentlemen camper Jon concurs.

Mechanix Gloves ($15 to $45)

Mechanix gloves are, of course, designed and built for mechanics who want to keep their hands warm and still be able to feel their tools and operate them without their gloves interfering. Jon has fallen in love with these gloves and he thinks they work great for gentlemen campers who need to hitch and unhitch their rigs in the cold. He keeps a pair in his classic Winnebago Brave motorhome. And he keeps six other pairs at home for a wide variety of other purposes! Jon’s top recommendations are the Original, the M-Pact, the Grip, and the Durahide Leather. Prices range from $15 – $45.

Junk Headbands and Neck Gaiters ($16 to $25) Headbands and Neck Gaiters are not for every gentleman camper–but those that love them wear them with pride. Jon prefer the comfortable and well-made “Winter Gaiters” and the “Big Bang Lite” style headbands made by Junk Brands. He wears these to cross-fit and apparently so do a lot of other men and women. I love the Santa headband in the picture above! Gaiters are 25 bucks and headbands are 16 bucks.

RinseKit Portable Shower ($110 to $170)

It’s been a weird and difficult year for most of us. Jon probably never planned on keeping a portable shower in the back of his car, but in a year when proper hand washing has been more important than ever before–then why not keep a RinseKit in your trunk? If you don’t want to head into the bathrooms at Target or Walmart after shopping, then why not be equipped to wash your hands back at your own vehicle? RinseKit Portable showers make this possible. They are also great for tent campers or pop up camper owners that don’t have a water supply on board. Prices range from $110 to $170 based on the model.

BlueDriver ODB2 Scan Tool

Read and clear your check engine light on your car, truck, or motorhome with this ingenious and relatively affordable gadget! Jon loves the Blue Driver ODB2 scan tool for scanning and getting rid of those annoying check engine lights that can stress you out on a roadtrip! He thinks their app is “where the magic happens” because it is intuitive and easy to use. The Blue Driver is only 99 bucks on Amazon!

Jeremy’s List of Classic Holiday Gifts for Gentleman Campers NEBO Classic Flashlight $29.99 photo provided by Nebo.com

This classic flashlight harkens back to the flashlights of old–like the flashlights your grandpa used to keep in the glove compartment of his Oldsmobile. Every gentleman camper should keep a good flashlight in the glove box–and for those that care about fashion and function–this should be the one. According to Nebo, “This 1920’s inspired flashlight outputs 640 lumens and features a sturdy, anodized aluminum housing with constructed leather grip and a lanyard ring.” It also comes in a sturdy and attractive gift box. When it comes to flashlights, Nebo is my brand–and the classic makes me feel like I am stepping into a time machine every time I turn it on.

Leatherman Free T4 ($59.95)

You don’t give a gentlemen camper a Swiss Army Knife–that is more of a great gift for kids or teenagers. The handsome and handy Free T4 is Leatherman’s answer to the Swiss Army Knife. It comes in a “Coleman” like green and other great colors like blue and crimson. It comes with a reasonably sized knife and 7 other tools as pictured above. Leatherman designs and builds their products in Portland, Oregon and they are truly an innovative American company that many gentlemen campers admire. Order your multitool with a gift case and customization for that distinguished gentleman camper in your life.!

Duke Cannon Big Ass Brick of Soap: Campfire ($9.00)

Duke Cannon Soaps are huge brick like soaps and they smell so gosh darn good! I love the names —Smells Like Naval Supremacy—Smells Like Victory—Smells like Productivity and Campfire and Illegally Cut Pine among many others. These soaps come in very gift-able boxes with great designs and artwork. The price seems high until you see how big these soaps really are–and how good they smell! The gentlemen camper in your life will thank you every single time he takes a shower! Campfire smells like hickory–not like smoke. But I probably love Smells Like Naval Supremacy the most.

Stormy Kromer Flannel Face Coverings ($12 )

I really dislike those cheap blue masks that have become ubiquitous in 2020. I also hate seeing them littering the ground like cigarette butts. Since we all need to do our part and wear masks inside in public when social distancing is not possible, then why not wear a mask that is comfortable and stylish? Stormy Kromer is famous for their plaid caps and now they make matching masks at an affordable price. I bought two of these last spring, and used them every day, but they were too warm to wear this past summer. Now that the weather is chilly again I’ll be wearing these to get me through the winter months. You might see me in a matching hat to boot!

Chef’s Cut Beef Jerky ($14 to $24)

The Puglisi boys love beef jerky. Plain and simple. Chef’s Cut Real Jerky makes the best we have ever had! Our favorites are “The Original” and “Honey BBQ.” But every flavor we have tried is sooooo goooood and so much better than the stuff we have sampled at the grocery store. These are handcrafted in the USA and made from “tender and premium” cuts!

The Sibley Guide to Birds ($28.99)

For the gentlemen camper (or anyone) that is interested in bird watching at any level from amateur to expert this is a gorgeous book. David Allen Sibley has also published an east edition and a west edition if you want a smaller book that would fit perfectly in a glove compartment or a stocking. Both the text and illustrations in this book are near-perfect. A copy would look great on any gentleman camper’s shelf.

Gift Subscription to ROVA

Does the gentlemen camper in your life appreciate sharply crafted road trip stories with beautiful photography? Then consider gifting him a one year, six issue subscription, to ROVA for 36 bucks. Now that Trailer Life Magazine and Motorhome Magazine have been retired I think it is more important than ever to support print publications. And ROVA has been doing a bang up job for several years now. I read each issue from cover to cover!

See You at the Campground: A Guide to Discovering Community, Connection, and a Happier Family in the Great Outdoors ($18.99)

Bonus gift idea! Our latest book would make the perfect gift for the gentlemen camper (or aspiring gentlemen camper) in your life. Our book is filled with the basics to get anyone started–and enough great tips to keep any camping expert entertained for days. With chapter on camp food, national parks, road trip tips, and more, there is something for every one in our most recent book!

Happy Holidays and See You at the Campground!!!!!

Jeremy

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Trip planning season is in full swing, and the RV Atlas is here to help! We like nothing more than camping on or near a lake or river with beautiful views. It also makes fishing, kayaking, SUPing, and swimming so much easier. When we can drop our kayaks or SUP’s in the water right by our site we use them much more. Of course, waterfront sites (and waterfront campgrounds in general) are harder to book. So it is time to get planning!

Today’s podcast is based on a blog post that I did for Go RVing this summer. Check it out right here.

Or to listen to Jeremy and Stephanie discuss these 8 awesome waterfront campgrounds click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts!

We changed up the list a bit from the Go RVing post, and we added some favorites from members of The RV Atlas group–so make sure to check out the podcast and the blog post! Here is the list that we discuss on the show!

Shelter Cove RV Resort (Odell Lake, Oregon)

Jedediah Smith Campground (Crescent City, California)

Holiday Park Campground (Traverse City, Michigan)

Old Highway 86 Campground (Table Rock Lake, Missouri)

Photo By Kerri Cox

Jellystone Lakes Region (Milton, New Hampshire)

photo provided by Northgate Resorts

Keuka Lake State Park (Finger Lakes, New York)

Otter Lake Camp Resort (Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania)

photo provided by Otter Lake Camp-Resort

Mount Pleasant/Charleston KOA (Mount Pleasant, South Carolina)

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We just finished a 50 night stretch of living in our RV while the first stage of our home renovation was completed. Our Jayco Eagle HT 264BHOK was parked right on the side of our new home and served us well during this long stretch. It wasn’t always easy with remote learning going on, but overall it worked well for our family. In early September we debated between renting a house during this time, or living in the RV–and living in the RV won out. So we had a 50 amp hookup installed, and we settled into the Eagle. This past Friday night we finally moved into the house (which is far from being done!) and it felt like a major life event.

When we bought the Eagle last year we were looking for a rig that had a lot of creature comforts. But also one that was modestly sized enough to fit into state and national park campgrounds. Our 32′ 10′ Eagle fit the bill nicely! We had no idea that we would end up living in it for 50 nights during a home Reno. There were certainly times during those 50 nights when we both wished that we had a larger trailer with a private bunk room for the boys–and a permanent dinette. But the Eagle served us well and we all slept comfortably each night. We did have access to our garage and one room in the house–so that helped a great deal.

Spending such a long stretch of time in the RV really got us thinking about its features and the ones that really helped us stay comfortable (and sane!) during this stretch. Here are 8 key features from our Eagle that really made a difference for us during our 50 night stay!

The Chaise Lounge

The Jayco Eagle HT 264BHOK comes with a U-Shaped Dinette—or an optional chaise lounge. We chose the chaise lounge and we are sooooo glad we did. We are not huge fans of the U-shaped dinettes because we think that are a bit hard to get in and out of–and we would rather have the open space than a permanent table. The chaise does come with a table that is easy to install. It swivels in and out and is comfortable to sit behind. Additionally, it stores right underneath the chaise, which is super convenient.

We used the chaise three different ways during our 50 night stay. Firstly, as a bed for Theo. He chose this over his bunk because he wanted a more open space. Secondly, in its natural form as a comfortable seating area that easily works for four of us at a time. And thirdly, as a work station for Max during remote schooling. It would have been nice to have a separate dining room table and couch during this time–but the chaise worked well. We just had a bit more set up and break down than during our usual camping trips.

The Furrion LED Fireplace

Man oh man do we love this electric fireplace. It has been on quite a lot these last few weeks and it heats our 32 ft. trailer very nicely. It is also a bit more quiet and subtle than listening to a furnace kick on and off during the night. The boys also like changing the colors–and so do I! The timer feature is also nice in case you want to turn it on right before bedtime and have it shut off an hour or two after everyone falls asleep. Additionally, it comes with a handy remote. So if you are relaxing on the chaise you don’t have to get up and make the long walk over to the heater to turn it on or off. Joking, but not really joking!

Furrion Flat Screen TV

We don’t watch a ton of TV when we go on RV trips, but we aren’t luddites either. If we play all day, sometimes we love to watch a movie (or old Andy Griffith episodes) at night. But during our 50 night stay in the RV we really gave our Furrion LED TV a workout. The boys and I watched baseball every night and we really appreciated the positioning and easy functionality of our entertainment center. Frankly, this is the first RV we have owned where the positioning of the TV is really front and center. Even though the Yankees lost we still had a blast watching the playoffs and the World Series together. It was relaxing “guy time” and hopefully watching the playoffs together becomes a fall tradition for this dad and his boys.

Zinus Green Tea Mattress Our upgraded Zinus Green Tea mattress was absolutely clutch while living in our RV for 50 nights. When you buy just about any mattress these days, the first thing that should be upgraded is the mattress. Manufacturers typically put in pretty average mattresses–at best. If you are considering going full-time or just living in your RV for a good long stretch–then getting a comfortable night’s sleep is absolutely essential. Who want to wake up and get ready to explore a great National Park or American city with a sore back? Not me. Not us.

Large Bathroom

With each RV we buy, our bathrooms become progressively larger and more comfortable. This has not exactly been an intentional choice–but it has been a very good one. The bathroom in our Eagle is so comfortable and roomy. It almost feels like a little retreat going in there for a shower or to brush your teeth at night. With three boys who are taking up more and more room, it was incredibly clutch to have a large bathroom during our 50 nights of living in our RV. Two of them can get ready at a time and not be right in each other’s faces. ‘Nuff said.

Blue Nightlights in our Bathroom and Bedroom Our Bathroom and the open area under our wardrobes have really nice and thoughtfully placed blue nightlights. Wes still REALLY likes to have a nightlight on each night–so the blue light in the bathroom is awesome for him. It is also not bright enough to disturb anyone that is trying to fall asleep. Stephanie often falls asleep before I do, and the blue nightlights under my wardrobe allow me to see my books and magazines etc. while she sounds soundly. Our Eagle is filled with thoughtfully placed and highly functional lighting. After living in it for 50 nights I grew to appreciate these small touches more and more.

Outlets and USB Chargers

Our Eagle is filled with outlets and USB chargers. I never realized how important they were until we started using the RV for remote schooling this year. Theo and Max were able to work comfortably in the RV and always have a place to charge their devices. We also have USB ports and outlets on either side of our bed. Nice job Jayco!

7 Foot Interior Height

Our Eagle is tall for a travel trailer and it has 7 feet of interior height. This is 3-6 inches taller than a lot of other travel trailers–particularly those that are billed as lightweight or ultra-lite. When you are living in an RV the small things count. That extra headroom made our Eagle feel more like a home and less like a cave.

Our Eagle served us incredibly well during those 50 nights. And I will always remember this crazy chapter of our lives when we lived in our RV next door to our house. A bigger RV would have been nice to have for this stretch. But I have no regrets. We bought our RV to travel and see the country. And hopefully that is easier and less stressful to do in 2021!

See You at the Campground! –Jeremy

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We have been dreaming of returning to the Pacific Northwest ever since we came back from our monthlong trip a few years back. There was so much we didn’t get to see. Thankfully, our Pacific Northwest correspondent, Neil Potter is taking us back there on one of this week’s podcasts. Neil loves Boardman Marina & RV Park, which is located right on the backs of the Columbia River in Boardman, Oregon. So we asked him to come back on The RV Atlas podcast and give us a review!

Neil’s last review for The RV Atlas podcast was on the Astoria/Warrenton/Seaside KOA. He works for Columbia Sportswear and is the founder and creator of Potter Woodworks, a small batch woodworking studio in Beaverton, Oregon. His handiwork is beautiful and we hope you take a second to check it out!

To listen to Neil’s review of Boardman Marina & RV Park click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas podcast wherever you get your shows! Or read below to find out more!

Location of Boardman Marina & RV Park photo by Neil Potter

Boardman Marina & RV Park is a bit of a “sleeper” in Neil’s opinion and something of an under-the-radar gem. It is located 3 hrs from Portland. So it is drivable for a quick weekend getaway, but far enough away to feel like a real escape. You wouldn’t really think there is a campground in this location at all. But there is, and it’s a good one. It would also be a great place to stop on your way into Portland from Montana, Yellowstone, or coming up from Moab on 84.

Sunsets and Kayaking at Boardman Marina photo by Neil Potter

The main attraction at Boardman Marina & RV Park is its waterfront location and its direct access to the Columbia River. Neil and his family loves the “crazy sunsets” and launching their kayaks directly from their site. He described the waters as being gentle and family friendly. Additionally, his kids also loved the little “tucked away” beaches with pretty pebbles and river rocks.

Size of the Campground and Site Details photo by Neil Potter

Boardman Marina & RV Park is a relatively small campground with only 63 sites. 20 of them are right on the water. Neil loved his site, and all of the sites in general. They are large, paved, and have full-hookups. There is also good space in-between the sites the roads are a bit curved which gives the sites extra privacy. The campground’s strategically placed privacy fences between sites were also on point and appreciated by Neil. So many other campgrounds would benefit from implementing fencing like this.

Price Range, Ease of Booking, and other Amenities Neil found the prices here to be fair and less expensive than campgrounds that are closer to Portland. Booking sites here also seems to be pretty easy. The amenities at the campground are also very clean and user friendly. Boardman Marina & RV Park has clean restrooms, a state of the art play structure, and plenty of doggy rest stations that were loaded up with waste sacks. There is also a three mile walking trail and a basketball court, play numerous play structures, horseshoes, sandlot volleyball, a swimming area, and reservable pavilions and gazebos.

Wifi and cell service was also solid.

Oregon is an incredible state for RV travel and it is filled with off the beaten track gems like Boardman Marina & RV Park. We are hoping to return to the Beaver State, and booking a quiet site along the river here is at the top of our list!

See You at the Campground!!

–Jeremy and Stephanie

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Most of us have probably camped or picnicked at a CCC built facility and not even realized it. So what was the CCC? And why does it matter to us today? Our guest on today’s podcast is longtime RV Atlas contributor Casita Dean May. Click on the media player above to listen to Jeremy and Dean’s conversation about the history of the CCC and its lasting contributions to the great outdoors in America. Or simply continue reading Dean’s guest blog post below to learn more!

If you have visited or camped in a national park, national forest, or state park in the United States, you have seen and benefitted from the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)! The CCC was created in 1933 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s (FDR) New Deal Programs to combat the ravages of the Great Depression that included an unemployment rate of over 25% and a stock market that had lost nearly 90% of its value. There were also significant environmental challenges stemming from decades of neglect and abuse of the land, poor agricultural practices, and timber overharvesting as well as droughts leading to the Dust Bowls of 1932-33. The idea behind the CCC was to use human resources to improve natural resources.

The CCC was designed as a temporary program to employ young men to improve our nation’s infrastructure. During its years of operation, 1933 to 1942, the CCC employed three million young men primarily between the ages of 18 to 25. These young men lived in camps receiving “three hots and cot” in exchange for their labor. They earned $30 per month with $25 going home to their families and the remaining $5 being using to cover their sundries. The “Boys of the CCC” were from families that benefitted greatly from this income during the Great Depression. The typical CCC worker was one of six children and was 18 to 19 years old. The majority of these young men, 70%, were malnourished upon entering the CCC. The average worker gained eight to fourteen pounds during his CCC enlistment. Only 11% of these young men had high school diplomas. In addition to food and shelter, the CCC worker received clothing (denim work clothes and surplus military uniforms) and health care.

During the nine-year existence of the CCC, 4,500 camps were formed across the United States. The heaviest concentrations of these camps were along the mid-Atlantic coast, the Midwest, and the South. At any given time, each camp included 100 to 300 workers. The young men were housed in large Army tents with 50 workers per tent. In addition to the tents for sleeping quarters, the camps would include office quarters, a recreation tent, a mess tent for meals, as well as a tent for water and waste disposal. Given the CCC existed prior to desegregation, African American CCC workers had separate camps while Native American CCC workers were only allowed in camps on reservations.

The work done by the CCC was extensive. In addition to “Roosevelt’s Tree Army” planting three billion trees, they built dams, 125,000 miles of roads and bridges, and wired 89,000 miles of telephone lines. Many CCC projects focused on erosion control, stream bank protection, range re-vegetation, mosquito control, and fire management. CCC workers constructing campgrounds, lodges, cabins, fire towers, bridle trails, and 13,000 miles of hiking trails transformed our national parks, national forests, and state parks. Many repairs of historic structures and military forts were completed by the CCC making them more accessible to the public. CCC projects often focused on building structures in the parks that blended with the natural features of the park. The CCC had significant impact on the landscape and culture of America’s national parks, national forests, and state parks.

The CCC was one of the most popular of FDR’s many successful New Deal Programs and the legacy of the CCC still lingers today in our parks. Unfortunately, in the decades since the CCC, our parks have been neglected with a huge backlog of deferred maintenance projections. It is estimated that our national parks currently have ten to twelve billion dollars worth of deferred maintenance projects. Perhaps with our current conditions of a decaying infrastructure and a global pandemic that leaves the U.S. with high employment and a shaky economy, the time is right for revisiting large scale projects that would benefit workers, the economy, and our infrastructure.

A recent positive development has been the Great American Outdoors Act (2020) as part of larger attempts to stimulate the economy during the COVID pandemic. This act is the most sweeping public land legislation in a generation. There was actually bipartisan support creating this legislation with the funds coming from off shore oil leases rather than from taxes. Funds from this act can be used to address the deferred maintenance projects within our national and state parks, including roads, bridges, trails, visitor centers, etc. The Great American Outdoors Act will permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund.

As part of the Great American Outdoors Act, is now the time to think about a 21st century Civilian Conservation Corps? If so, what would it look like? Do we have the drive and togetherness to complete the task? The CCC from the 1930s was a hallmark economic and youth employment program that transformed America’s national and state parks. As we visit and camp in our national parks, national forests, and state parks admiring their beauty, we can still see the work and legacy of the CCC. What better time to also ponder what we can do now to build upon this legacy keeping our parks beautiful for another generation of outdoor enthusiasts and campers.

Dean is a Professor of Social Work at Western Kentucky University. Laura and Dean have been married for 37 years and have two young adult daughters, Natalie and Claire. In their journey to the empty nest, Laura and Dean discovered the RVing lifestyle and culture. In a series of fortunate events, they purchased a new-to-them 2005 Casita 17’ Freedom Deluxe egg camper in the Fall, 2015. They are particularly fond of attending egg rallies for RVers that own molded fiberglass RVs. They also travel with Gibbs, the Mississippi Maltese.

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RVing has definitely changed our lives for the better. In fact, it is not an exaggeration to say that purchasing an RV was transformational for our family. Stephanie and I did not grow up camping in a consistent way. So looking back it seems like a miracle that we became RV owners.

What Inspired Us To Become RV Owners?

I give the Go RVing national media campaign much of the credit for inspiring us to buy our first pop up camper over a decade ago. Their emotional and cinematic television commercials tugged on my heartstrings and made me want to hit the open road with our children. Those commercials also sent me over to Go RVing’s website for more information and education about selecting the right RV for our family. Additionally, I also spent a lot of time reading posts from their great blog, which was called The Scenic Route at that time.

I am so honored to now be a regular contributor to the website that inspired me all of those years ago. And it still amazes me to think that our family was featured in one of Go RVing’s national television campaigns.

Go RVing Launches New Website Still shot from our Go RVing commercial.

Over the years the Go RVing website became a bit outdated. It was not fully able to integrate all of the amazing content that was being created by their team. So when they announced the launch of a brand new, content rich, highly interactive website, we knew we needed to call them up and have someone on the podcast to walk us through all of its new features. We also wanted to chat about Go RVing’s latest national media campaign. Thankfully Sarah Neely, Go Rving’s Senior Manager for Strategic Marketing & Data Analytics, was up for the task!

To listen to our interview with Sarah click on the media player above. Or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts! All images in this post were provided by Go RVing.

Go RVing’s new website is jam packed with great content and user friendly tools worth using. So here are six of the most compelling new features you should check out:

Content Journeys Keith Sims Tailgating

Go RVing’s “content journeys” tell the stories of real RV owners in their own voices. The new website is packed with great blog posts, tips and tricks, and videos. Each piece of content will inspire you to start your own RV adventures. Additionally, content journeys are incredibly diverse and tell the stories of RVers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you want to travel with young kids, or have solo adventures, or sell your house and go full-time, there is great content here for you!

Find My RV Quiz The “Find My RV Quiz” will help RV newbies get started. Because choosing your first RV can be complicated. There really is a steep learning curve. This tool will help you make a smart decision by asking you a series of relevant questions about your camping style. After you answer them the tool will recommend an RV that is right for you.

Compare RV’s If you find yourself stuck between a fifth wheel or a conventional travel trailer, then the “Compare RV’s” tab will help immensely. You can place key facts and figures side by side and compare price, length, features, and more. Researching your big purchase is so important, and this tool gets a lot of the legwork done for you in advance.

Testimonials

Go RVing’s website is packed with testimonials from real RV owners. The testimonials are inspiring and filled with good advice. If they can do it, why can’t you? There are even a few quotes from Stephanie and I on the new website. So go and see if you can find them!

Look Inside The “look inside” feature on the new website allows you to click on pictures of an RV and take a look inside of it. Many first time shoppers are amazed at how comfortable and luxurious modern RV’s can be. The “look inside” tool gives you an up close and personal look inside various modern RV’s. Think kitchens, couches, bathrooms, driving areas and more!

RV and Product Search Go RVing’s search tool allows you to find the content you want when you want it. Looking for recipes? Tips for visiting national parks? Tips for traveling with pets? It’s all there at your fingertips.

When we started RVing ten years ago the Go RVing website was a central clearing house for all things RV. So we went to the site for information and inspiration. This brand new redesign of the website puts it back on top. If you are just starting to dream of owning an RV, we recommend you head to gorving.com and just get lost for awhile. Give yourself 10 minutes to watch some videos or read some great blog posts and we think your next stop may be at an RV dealership.

We sure do hope to see you at the campground some day soon!

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We have always loved tiny trailers here at the RV Atlas. Stephanie and I have been covering them on the podcast since the beginning! Our family camping unit includes 2 adults, 3 kids, and our sweet dog Maggie. So a tiny trailer is not a really a good option for our crew. But they are still a temptation and something of a forbidden fruit for us. I think we both look forward to having a smaller RV after the boys head off to college. Or maybe even buying a second tiny trailer if it ever makes sense for us financially. We have also always loved trailers that are built for going off the grid. Or at the very least–dry camping adventures.

Our last two rigs have been equipped with solar and large tanks (and our new Eagle even has a generator) so that we can camp without hookups for days on end. So to put it mildly–the combination of tiny trailers that are also built for off-grid adventures really hits a sweet spot for both of us.

Stephanie’s Picks! Stephanie recently penned an article for Togo RV about the “6 Best RV’s for Going Off the Grid” and after reading it, I knew we had to have her on the show to talk about her picks. Click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts to listen to our discussion of important features for off-grid RV’s–and Stephanie’s review of the following 6 rigs!

• inTech RV Flyer
• Lance Truck Camper
• Airstream Basecamp
• Jayco Jay Feather Micro
• Winnebago Hike
• Rockwood Geo Pro

Will we finally get a tiny trailer of our own? One that is built for outdoor adventure and dry camping at our favorite state parks like Assateague? I think we will. And when we do I think it will be one of these six!

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Do you travel in your RV with a beloved family dog, or dogs? If you do you are not alone! According to studies by the RVIA and KOA More than 50% percent of RV owners go RVing with dogs. The RV lifestyle is perfect for dog owners. We have never encountered a campground that DID NOT allow pets and the vast majority of campgrounds are very dog-friendly.

To get some tips and tricks about RVing with dogs click here!

But some campgrounds take it even further. They are not just dog friendly, they are dog-centered. What I mean by “dog-centered” is that the design of the campground pays particular attention to the wants and needs of RV dogs and their people. These campground offer much more than just a fenced in dog walk area with poop bags. Instead some offer dog park FACILITIES and dog parks in stunning locations on water. Kenneling services and doggy wash stations are also an option at some of these top notch campgrounds–as are agility contests and dog-specific hiking trails.

Today’s podcast episode ” RVing With Dogs ! 8 Campgrounds With Awesome Puppy Parks” can be listened to by clicking on the media player above. The podcast is based on a blog post that Jeremy did for Go RVing this past summer. To find out more about these campgrounds click on the media player above to listen to the show, or head over to Go RVing’s blog to read the original post.

Go RVing Post:

https://www.gorving.com/tips-inspiration/trip-planning/rving-dogs-8-campgrounds-awesome-puppy-parks

Here are the campgrounds featured in the Go RVing post and on the podcast! Lake George RV Park (Lake George, New York)

Normandy Farms Campground (Foxboro, Massachusetts)

Massey’s Landing (Millsboro, Delaware)

Fancy Gap / Blue Ridge Parkway KOA (Fancy Gap, Virginia)

4 Paws Kingdom Campground & Dog Retreat (Rutherfordton, North Carolina)

The Campground at James Island County Park (Charleston, South Carolina)

WIlliams/Exit 167/ Circle Pines KOA (Williams, Arizona)

Cape Charles/Chesapeake Bay KOA (Cape Charles, Virginia)

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We have been obsessed with camping and hiking gear since day one here at The RV Atlas headquarters. Testing and reviewing camping gear and RV gadgets is baked into the DNA of our podcast, and our website. In fact, right now, as I write these words our new two-car garage (at our new home) is being renovated. Thick installation and new sheetrock are being installed so that our garage will be more clean and comfortable for every day use. I plan on being out there testing gear all winter long.

I can’t wait to unpack all of my camping and hiking gear and get it organized so its ready to be deployed for our next adventure. Stephanie tends to be more of a camping minimalist. Though she still loves the simple pleasures that a good piece of gear can bring when it is being used as it was intended to be used. I tend to be more of a gear maximalist. I want to test everything new that comes out. As the co-host of The RV Atlas podcast, I consider it to be part of my job to know what gear is worth buying. And I love sharing my top picks with you.

Camping and Hiking Gear that is Perfectly Designed. The camping and hiking gear that we feature in this blog post and podcast, are, in my humble opinion, perfectly designed. I think that if you tried to improve upon any of their design features you might just ruin them. All of them, except one, are also reasonably priced. Are you are one of the legions of new campers that have discovered the great outdoors and the pleasures of the RV and camping lifestyle in 2020? Then this list will help you put together your own world class camping kit.

If you are a crafty veteran of the RV and camping lifestyle, then you may end up nodding your head in approval, or disagreement, with the following picks.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

–Jeremy

Camelbak CHUTE® MAG 25 OZ (.75L) BOTTLE ($14.00)

Camelbak Chute water bottles are durable, affordable, and intuitive to use. They also come in a variety of bright and attractive colors that should be easy to match with your favorite daypack or hiking outfit. According to Camelbak, “the universal cap features a magnetic top that stows securely out of the way when open, [and] is leak-proof when closed.” We can attest to both parts of this claim. We also love that this bottle is dishwasher safe and BPA free. Camelbak has been refining their water bottles for years, and we think this one is as good as it gets. That’s why we own four or five of them. If you are starting your camping and hiking gear collection then getting a Chute for each member of the family might be a great place to start.

Lodge Pre-Seasoned 10.25″ Cast Iron Skillet ($14.88)

Most of my camping and hiking gear is in storage right now, so I had to go out and buy another 10.25″ Lodge Cast Iron Skillet. Thank goodness they are such a bargain. The sub $15 price point on this iconic piece of cookware is a miracle of American manufacturing. How does Lodge do it? My guess is that they sell thousands and thousands (and thousands more) of them. From a design perspective everything here is done right. The handle is comfortable, and the pour spouts are practical. Lodge’s robust pre-seasoning process also makes this easy for an amateur to use and maintain. What else can you buy for about 15 bucks that will easily last a lifetime?

Luci Color ($24.95)

The design team at MPOWERD Inc. makes beautiful solar lanterns. The Luci Color is my personal favorite. This INFLATABLE solar lantern has 8 different colors and can last 9 hours on a single charge. It packs up easily too, so you can bring a few of them to camp without sacrificing much space. If you have a tiny trailer, or you are tent camping and space is at a premium, then this is a perfect light for you. The Luci Color is so adorable and affordable that you might consider gifting them to all of your camping friends. They will want one after they see yours, of that I am certain.

Estwing Fireside Friend Splitting Tool ($29.08)

The Estwing Fireside Friend is not just a camp axe, it is an indestructible splitting tool (made of solid American steel) that will help make your campfires burn brighter and warmer. The 4lb. head allows you to split pieces of firewood with ease. Smaller pieces of firewood burn faster too. So your campfire will be up and running in no time. The 14″ Fireside Friend has a hand sharpened edge and is made in America, so there is nothing not to love about it. This is a piece of gear that you can, and should, pass on to your children someday.

Nebo Slyde King Flashlight ($34.88)

I am a certified flashlight nut and I own over 30 of them. The Nebo Slyde King rechargeable USB flashlight is my favorite of the bunch. So what makes this affordable light a perfectly designed piece of camping and hiking gear? First of all, the aircraft-grade aluminum build is rugged, and its look is aesthetically pleasing and surprisingly high-end for the price point. The main 500 lumen LED flashlight is excellent, but the killer app is the retractable work light that hides inside the flashlight body when not in use. This work light, when coupled with the magnetic base and red hazard flasher, turns this casual flashlight into a powerful tool for roadside emergencies on your way to and from the campground. Keep one in your backpack and one in your car. You Won’t regret it.

North Face Recon Backpack ($99.00)

My North Face Recon backpack has been so good for so long, that I sometimes take its performance for granted. My first Recon backpack lasted for over a decade and paid its dues in locations from Acadia National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains before a zipper finally gave out. I probably should have had it fixed but it was getting pretty funky at that point anyway. I bought another one without hesitating or even shopping for another pack. This one is perfectly designed for day hikes because of its meshed front compartment, superior interior organization, and spacious water bottle holders that easily secure two Camelback Chutes. It seems like an easy thing to get right, but so many day backs have skimpy side holders for water bottles that leave them unsecured. The Recon gets this, and everything else, perfectly right.

Leatherman Signal ($119.95)

I have owned Leatherman products for years, and most of them come close to being perfectly designed. But the newly released Leatherman Signal takes the cake for me. Why? because more than any other Leatherman multitool this one is designed for those that love the great outdoors more so than for the handy man or woman who loves projects around the house. The signal packs a fire starter, hammer, one-handed blade, and an emergency whistle, a bottle opener, and so much more. If you take your camp kitchen seriously like I do, then make sure to pack a Signal in your kit. It will make your life easier in 19 different ways. The only hard part will be picking your favorite color combo. I went with the one pictured above.

Blackstone 22″ Tabletop Griddle With Hood ($159.99)

The Blackstone 22″ tabletop griddle may just end up being THE iconic piece of camping gear for my generation. Our camping forefathers and foremothers loved their two-burner suitcase style Coleman stoves that were powered by white gas. And who can blame them–it was a legendary product that withstood the test of time. But most folks don’t want to carry a can of white gas to the campground anymore and pump up their fuel tanks to cook breakfast.

The current generation of camping and RVing enthusiasts has fallen head over heels in love with their Blackstone griddles–and we think the 22″ is the most perfectly designed in the bunch. It heats up easily and EVENLY, and it is fairly simple to use and maintain. The two burners allow you to create two cooking zones and the use of direct and indirect heat. The hood makes melting cheese and keeping your food warm easy, but it can also be removed (or purchased without) if you want a more compact and easily stored product.

Yeti Tundra 45 ($299.99) You can bark all you want about the price of Yeti products, but don’t complain about the quality. If you do I’ll close my ears. Yeti coolers are built to last, and if you pack the ice correctly, they work as advertised. If for some reason it doesn’t work, then send it back. Yeti’s customer service is legendary and keeps their products top of mind over the imitators that don’t stand behind (or anywhere near!) their products in the same way. Yes, you can spend less and get a great cooler. But if you buy a lemon you will probably be stuck.

To listen or read about our comparison between Yeti and RTIC, click here.

The Tundra 45 is Yeti’s most perfectly designed product for several reasons. For most people, the size just works. There is also the perfectly proportioned amount of room inside for two cooler shelves and a divider. Mom and dad can keep their lunch on one side and the kid’s food and snacks on the other. Yet’s latches also perform flawlessly and the size and height make this a perfect bench seat for the beach or for around the campfire.

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The RV and camping industries have faced an incredibly tumultuous year in 2020, as have many businesses. Last spring many campgrounds and RV manufacturers had to shut down and face a mountain of uncertainty–and then in later spring and early summer their businesses started to boom like never before. Demand for RVs, outdoor equipment, and campsites reached historically high levels. It was an emotional roller coaster ride for business owners to say the least.

Here at The RV Atlas we decided to put together a mini-series of podcasts taking a closer look at how the pandemic affected business owners in several different segments of these paired industries. Our first episode took a look at how the Inn Town Campground is handling the global pandemic. For the second episode of the series we we interviewed repeat guest Josh Winters from Haylett RV about how they were handling the unexpectedly explosive sales that came their way in July and August.

In the latest episode in the series we decided to interview Kent Wilson from RV SnapPad to see how the pandemic was impacting the business of a rapidly growing RV accessory maker that was well positioned for accelerated growth in the early months of 2020. When the coronavirus hit, RV SnapPad began to have incredibly complicated manufacturing delays that they are still working to overcome today. For a time, they even had to pause sales on their own website so that they could fulfill orders elsewhere.

Use the media player above (or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts) to take a listen to our interview with Kent to hear about RV SnapPad’s wild and crazy summer and to learn more about this family’s background as innovators in the RV accessory space.

So What is an RV SnapPad? RV SnapPads are made out of recycled tires and they are the world’s only permanent jack pad. They are also easy to install and “snap” into place using a little bit of dish soap around the lip of the pad. We love them because they are one of the few RV accessories that actually reduce the time and work it takes to get set up at the campground. I used to crawl around under the RV on my hands and knees (or have the boys do it!) to put my jack pads in place before auto leveling the camper.

Now that annoying process is eliminated and I can set up camp a bit quicker and easier. We love the SnapPads and would never own a rig without them. They are also relatively affordable and you can’t lose them or accidentally leave them at the campground when packing up camp.

To hear about RV SnapPad’s complete lineup of products click on the media player above or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts!

Or click here to check out their website and order a set for your rig today!

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Is Southern Indiana on your RV Bucket List?

RVing and enjoying the great outdoors has never been more popular than it is right now–and many of the country’s most popular campgrounds and state and national parks have been crowded throughout the summer and fall. This has left many campers frustrated. Particularly those who want to find some elbow room for social distancing. We wish that this pandemic would hurry up and end, but since that is not the case, we think its a great time to explore some of the best off-the-beaten path RV destinations. Yellowstone and Yosemite may be on your bucket list, but maybe its time to plan an RV trip to southern Indiana, or a number of other great underrated locations that might be less crowded, and just as fun to explore.

Huge thanks to Casita Dean May for providing supporting text and photos for this post–and for another great appearance on The RV Atlas podcast!

Exploring Underrated Camping Destinations with the RV Atlas The RV Atlas podcast and blog has put together a series about underrated states for RV travel. States that have tons of natural beauty, and plenty of great campgrounds to choose from. On previous shows in this series we have explored New York State, Virginia, Arkansas, and Michigan. On today’s episode of The RV Atlas we are talking about RVing in Southern Indiana with one of our favorite correspondents, the legendary Casita Dean May. Click on the media player above to listen, or subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcasting app.

Dean has a deep love for all things southern Indiana and he knows the landscape well. On the show he dispels the common misconception that all of Indiana is flat. In fact, the region is filled with steep hills known as “knobs.” The Ohio River and the hills of southern Indiana were created by glacial period that left northern Indiana flat. Major American cities formed along the Ohio River, and Dean reminded us that a day trip into Louisville, Kentucky is easy make while you are exploring southern Indiana in your RV.

Here are lists and links for Dean’s favorite things to do and see in southern Indiana, all of which he talks about on today’s podcast!

Casita Dean May’s Favorite Small Towns Schnitz Brewery & Pub in Jasper, INDean also loves many of the “cool little towns” in southern Indiana for their food and culture. His favorites that he mentions in the show are:

1. French Lick
2. Nashville
3. Paoli
4. Corydon
5. Jasper

State Parks in Southern Indiana Brown County State Park

This region is also packed with great state parks and all of the ones mentioned below (that Dean discusses on the show) also have great campgrounds!

1. Brown County State Park
2. Charlestown State Park
3. Clifty Falls State Park
4. Lincoln State Park
5. Spring Mill State Park

National and State Forests, and Large Lakes in Southern Indiana Southern Indiana also boasts numerous national and state forests and large lakes galore, making it an amazing region for fishing, hiking, camping, and all things great outdoors. Here are some of Dean’s favorite places to explore in southern Indiana.

1. Hoosier National Forest
2. Clark State Forest
3. Yellowwood State Forest
4. Monroe Lake
5. Patoka Lake

Caves and Caverns in Southern Indiana Southern Indiana also has plenty of options for exploring UNDERGROUND. Here are several options for great cave tours for those with adventurous spirits.

1. Blue Spring Caverns
2. Indiana Caverns
3. Margeno Cave U.S. National Landmark
4. Squire Boone Caverns
5. Wyandotte Caves (temporarily closed due to COVID-19)

Dean’s Favorite Campgrounds Sycamore Springs Campground

1. Brown County State Park (Nashville, IN)
2. Lake Rudolph Campground and RV Resort (Santa Claus, IN)
3. Lincoln State Park (Lincoln City, IN)
4. Sycamore Springs Campground (English, IN)

Restaurants, Breweries, and Things To Do Patoka Lake Winery in Birdseye, IN

1. Hemlock Cliffs Hiking Trail (Hoosier National Forest, English, IN)
2. Monastery of the Immaculate Conception (Ferdinand, IN)
3. St. Meinrad Archabbey (St. Meinrad, IN)
4. The Pub and Grub [featuring Bone’s BBQ] (Birdseye, IN close to Patoka Lake)
5. Schnitzelbank Restaurant (Jasper, IN)
6. Schnitz Brewery & Pub (Jasper, IN)
7. Patoka Lake Winery (Birdseye, IN close to Patoka Lake)
8. Hoosier Wine Trail
9. St. Benedict’s Brew Works (Ferdinand, IN)
10. Basket Case Brewing Company

As you can see, this region of Indiana is packed with things to do and places to camp. Dean thinks it is one of the most underrated regions in southern Indiana–and we couldn’t agree more!

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Location of Willow Valley RV Resort Willow Valley RV Resort is in the far northeast corner of Georgia. Just outside the little mountain town of Clayton. It is a sparkling new RV park with spacious sites, great amenities, and the perfect location for exploring this beautiful part of the state. The area has ample hiking, waterfalls, and gorgeous vistas. Its natural beauty rivals the Great Smoky Mountains. All without the crowds that plague the national park.

Willow Valley RV Resort is about 2 hours away from either Atlanta or Asheville, NC. And despite its mountain location, it’s an easy drive to get there on good roads with gentle grades.

To listen to our campground review of Willow Valley RV Resort with Gretchen Holcombe from Boxy Colonial and Boxy Colonial on the Road click on the media player above. Or subscribe to The RV Atlas wherever you get your podcasts!

All photos in this post by Gretchen Holcombe.

Sites and Prices at Willow Valley RV Resort

The RV park has 80 full hookup sites, with a mix of back-in and pull-through sites. You can have your pick of a site close to the pool and playground. Or you can choose one of the brand new paved sites at the back of the campground on the banks of the Little Tennessee River. The campground is surrounded by mountains, so every site comes with spectacular views. Nightly rates range from $36 to $70, depending on the type of site and the time of year.

Sites have good separation between them for the most part, but there aren’t many mature trees. So there’s not a lot of privacy or shade. All sites have picnic tables. But they are not equipped with fire pits (you can bring your own or rent one from the camp store).

Amenities at WIllow Valley RV Resort

Willow Valley has a lot of great amenities, including a pool, small playground, basketball court, outside games like corn hole, a dog washing station and dog park, and a really nicely done community fire pit area. There are scheduled activities on weekends, including arts and crafts and Saturday night s’mores, though the schedule is a little lighter this year due to Covid.

Things To Do Near Willow Valley RV Resort Willow Valley RV Resort’s best feature is its great location. It is well positioned for exploring three different Georgia state parks and for taking advantage of the shopping and restaurants in nearby Clayton. Some great towns in North Carolina are also within easy striking distance for day trips.

Black Rock Mountain State Park is right down the road from Willow Valley RV Resort. At 3640 feet, it’s Georgia’s highest state park. Check out the views from the 2.2 mile Tennessee Rock Trail or bring a kayak and paddle around the park’s small lake.

Tallulah Gorge State Park, less than 20 minutes south of Willow Valley, features a spectacular 1000 foot deep gorge. You can hike down into the gorge and cross it via a suspension bridge. Or just admire the views via the rim trail up top.

The main feature of Moccasin Creek State Park is boating and fishing on the nearly 3000 acre Lake Burton. It is half an hour from Willow Valley, There’s also an excellent, family friendly hiking trail to the lovely Hemlock Falls.

The town of Highlands, NC is only 30 minutes from Willow Valley via a beautiful drive up into the higher elevations. The downtown area is full of shopping and restaurants, and there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be found in and near town. Check out the amazing view from Sunset Rock or take a kid-friendly ramble through the grounds of the botanical garden and Highlands Biological Station. A few minutes outside of town you’ll find the impressive Dry Falls, named because you can walk behind the waterfall and stay (mostly) dry.

Local Shopping Near Willow Valley RV Resort Wander North Georgia is a must see shopping stop in Clayton, Georgia. It is less than 10 minutes from Willow Valley. The shop has gained a devoted following thanks in large part to its excellent Instagram account. It sells a big variety of outdoor gear and apparel, as well a great selection of books, plus other essentials like local beer and ice cream.

Restaurants Near Willow Valley RV Resort Clayton has a surprising number of great restaurants for a town its size. Grab a pizza from Fortify Pi or have a burger and a local beer on the patio at Universal Joint. Pick up some Mexican from Manrique’s or get a super affordable and delicious family-sized fried chicken dinner from Sunday Diner. And then finish it all off with some fresh doughnuts from The Farm House.

The post Campground Review: Willow Valley RV Resort, Georgia appeared first on The RV Atlas.