wpblogtesting

Author: Freedom in a Can

  • Joshua Tree National Park: An RV Camping and Travel Guide

    Joshua Tree National Park: An RV Camping and Travel Guide

    Those twisted, gnarled, and spiky branched trees — for which the park is named — quite simply make Joshua Tree National Park iconic. Peppered among the desert landscape and surrounded by surreal rock formations, these trees look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book for adults. There is just something magnetic about them.

    This fascinating park, located at the unique intersection of the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, boasts a wide variety of desert flora and fauna. This curious junction is continuously shaped and sculpted by strong winds and occasional — yet torrential — rain storms. Add a dose of some of the best night sky viewing, world-class hiking and rock climbing, and fascinating cultural history, and you’ll understand why three million visitors flock to this national park each year.

    Fact is, most campers don’t need to be convinced to jump in the RV and head to Joshua Tree National Park. The real question is how to make the most of it. Let’s take about that.

     

     

    Scenic Drives 

    Just driving along along Park Boulevard, you will find a whole host of interesting things to explore in Joshua Tree National Park. The Black Rock Canyon area in the northwest corner of the park is home to the beautiful Joshua Tree Forest. Near the south entrance,  the Cottonwood Spring Oasis awaits with its fascinating treasure trove of rich, cultural history. If you enjoy exploring fascinating rock formations, many of nature’s sculptures abound. They also come with fun names like Oyster Bar, Cow Rock, Cyclops Rock, Skull Rock, and the Hall of Horrors. (Check out the slot canyons.) All of these lie along the main park road.  

    Neither do panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and the high peaks of San Jacinto and San Gorgonio require leaving your truck or motorhome. Head out along Keys View Road in the southwestern part of the park for some fantastic bird’s-eye views. (Tip!  For an extra special treat, go at sunset, but get there very early as parking is quite limited.)

    For more adventurous types, the Geology Tour Road is an 18-mile motor tour leading through one of the park’s most fascinating landscapes. Give yourself at least two full hours to enjoy this trip. It offers scenic pullouts, a few hiking trails, and some climbing access routes. In good weather, most passenger vehicles can handle the first few miles of this rougher road. But watch for the sign marking the point where a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle is recommended to continue. Turn around there if your vehicle is not capable of handling deep ruts and soft sand. The road is not suitable for campers, trailers, and motorhomes.

     

     

    Unpaved Routes

    In addition to these options, the park offers many miles of unpaved backcountry roads to explore by car or mountain bike, as well as some for 4WD vehicles only. With over 1,000 square miles of designated wilderness, these roads allow you a glimpse into undeveloped parks of the park as well as offer some stunning solitude. However, before you travel on these roads, plan ahead and prepare. (It could save your life!)

    • Get maps. It’s important not to rely solely on GPS. Detailed topographical maps are downloadable from the park’s website or any of the four visitor centers scattered throughout the park.  
    • Come prepared. Bring survival gear, spare tires, extra food, and plenty of water and food if you head out on one of these rough roads. This is desert camping.
    • Fuel up. Vehicles tend to burn through more fuel when taking on challenging dirt roads. So, be sure to fuel up before coming into the park and bring an extra fuel can as there are no gas stations located within the park boundaries.  

    Approximate Driving Times (No Stops) 

    • 45 minutes between the West and North entrances.
    • 1 hour between the North and South entrances. 
    • 1.5 hours between the West and South entrances.

     

     

    Must-Hike Trails 

    Hiking trails abound in the park with nearly 30 designated trails ranging from easy to very challenging. It’s important to note that the heat can be overwhelming here in the summer months. If you plan to hike in the summer, hydrate before you start hiking AND bring at least two liters of water per person. Start out early. Take shade breaks as often as you can. Assess what your group’s abilities are and check in often. Be realistic about what you can accomplish.  Here are some good options, depending on the season.

     

    Best Hiking Trails by Difficulty

    Easy. Hidden Valley, Cholla Garden, Barker Dam, Arch Rock, and the Discovery Trail are all around one to two miles long and very scenic. Combined, they offer a taste of just about every type of environment that Joshua Tree has to offer, without being a super-physical hike. Collectively, these are great hot weather options so that you can rest and enjoy some shade in between several short hikes!

    Moderate. The West Side Loop Trail is a beautiful 4.7 mile hike with an elevation gain of 785 feet that takes you through sandy washes and along ridges with views of Joshua Trees and mountain peaks.  Lost Horse Mine Trail, at four miles long with a 550-foot elevation gain, takes you to one of the most successful gold mines in the park. For a longer and more challenging option, you can add on Lost Horse Loop if you are feeling it — and the weather isn’t too hot. (Always a factor.)

    Difficult (not recommended in the heat): Ryan Mountain is a three-mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Ryan Mountain, with an elevation gain of just over 1,000 feet. If you are up for a full-day hike and the weather is conducive, the Panorama Loop at 6.6 miles and a 1,100-foot elevation gain allows you to enjoy much of what the park has to offer in one longer hike — sandy washes, ridgeline trail, scenic views, a dense Joshua Tree forest, and some beautiful pinyon-juniper woodlands.  

     

    Wheelchair Accessible Trails (Paved)  

    • Oasis of Mara Trail near the Park Headquarters in Twentynine Palms is great.
    • Lower Keys View Overlook lies near the accessible parking spots, but views may be limited by signage and naturally growing vegetation.

     

    Pet-Friendly Hikes

    As with all national parks, pets are not allowed on hiking trails for the protection of the park’s animals and yours. The only exception in Joshua Tree is the Oasis of Mara trail near the park headquarters in Twentynine Palms. To hike with your pet, try hiking down a dirt road or walking your pet through the roads in campgrounds. Dogs must always be on a leash and can’t be more than 100 feet from a road. 

     

     

    RV Parks & Campgrounds 

    Park Campgrounds

    There are approximately 500 campsites at eight campgrounds within Joshua Tree, all of which allow both RVs and tents.  Five of the campgrounds inside the park require reservations and book up quickly each year: Black Rock, Cottonwood, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, and Ryan  are open year-round with partial closures between June 1 through September 1. The other three campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis: Hidden Valley (open year-roun); White Tank and Belle (closed in the summer).  All campgrounds are situated at 3,000 to 4,300 feet in gorgeous rock garden settings. None of Joshua Tree’s campgrounds offer electrical or water hook-ups.

    RV Length Limitations. White Tank and Hidden Valley campgrounds have a length limit of 25 feet combined. Belle Campground can accommodate up to 35-foot rigs, but most can only accommodate 25 to 30 feet. For the reservation-only campgrounds, be sure to check the length of each site before reserving at recreation.gov.  

    Note: It is illegal to sleep in your vehicle outside of campgrounds (e.g., trailheads, dirt roads, parking lots, roadsides, etc.).

    Water and Dump Stations. Water is at a premium in this park. So, come with filled tanks and extra water jugs! There are two RV water filling and dump stations at Black Rock campground and at Cottonwood (between the visitor center and campground).  Water is free and a dump costs five dollars.

    Staying hydrated while out and about is key to both enjoyment and survival in this park. Water bottle and water-jug filling stations are located at various visitor centers, nature centers, ranger stations, and campgrounds. But the center of the park does not have any potable water. Be sure to know where your closest filling station is so that you never find yourself in an emergency situation.

     

    Camping Outside the Park

    Privately-operated campgrounds and RV parks are nearby in the towns both north of the park in Joshua Tree, Twentynine Palms and Yucca Valley, as well as south of the park in Palm Desert, Desert Hot Springs, and Chiriaco Summit.  

    For boondocking options, the park is surrounded by Bureau of Land Management (BLM land) and they allow permit-free RV and tent camping. Here is a list of camping options outside of the park to help you plan your time at Joshua Tree.


    Seasonal Advice 

    Joshua Tree National Park ranges in elevation from 536 feet in the park’s southeast corner to 5,814 feet at the summit of Quail Mountain. Conditions may vary greatly depending on your exact location within the park. 

    Most days are typically clear with less than 25 percent humidity. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average high/low of 85 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60 degrees Fahrenheit and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are often very hot, over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and may only cool to around 75 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

    As with many national parks, one visit is often not enough to see and explore all of what Joshua Tree has to offer. And, with Joshua Tree within easy reach of Death Valley and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks, you could easily plan a few weeks in this area and never run out of places to explore!

     

     

    Insider Tips!

    Watching Sunrises and Sunsets. While there is truly no bad spot to watch the sunrise or sunset at Joshua Tree, some popular places include Indian Cove, Quail Springs, Cap Rock, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. Keys View is very popular at sunset as well but can be crowded and difficult to find parking.

    Night Sky Viewing. As an official International Dark Sky designated park, there are many fantastic spots to view the stunning night sky — from the campgrounds to four designated parking lots (Quail Springs, Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and Ryan Mountain) to roadside pullouts along Pinto Basin Road between Cholla Cactus Garden and Cottonwood, which boast the darkest skies and the least amount of traffic. 

    Ranger-Led Programs. Ranging from Ranger Strolls to Evening Programs at various campgrounds, these programs are always free, do not require a reservation, and vary by season and available staff.  Check the online calendar or inquire at a visitor center. However, Keys Ranch tours run from October to April, require a fee and an online reservation at recreation.gov.

     

     

    Fun Activities

    Cycling. Cycling is allowed on dirt and paved roads in the park. Bikes are not permitted on hiking trails or off-road. Bring your mountain bikes to explore the park’s backcountry dirt roads which offer numerous opportunities to explore much less trafficked areas than the busy paved roads which don’t have bike lanes or paved shoulders.

    Rock Climbing:  If you are a climber, you know that this high desert monzogranite climbing mecca is famous for its traditional-style crack, slab, and steep face climbing. As a world-class climbing destination, the park offers challenges for all ability levels with more than 8,000 climbing routes, 2,000 boulder problems, and hundreds of natural gaps to choose from. 

    Tip!  If you are learning to climb or are looking to expand your skills, hire a guide or take a class. When hiring a climbing guide, make sure that they are permitted to work in Joshua Tree National Park.

     

  • Vintage RV Restoration: Some Expert Dos and Don’ts

    Vintage RV Restoration: Some Expert Dos and Don’ts

    Been bitten by the vintage bug? Welcome to the club! Now, listen to a little advice from a few long-time members: Your vintage RV restoration may not be as easy, cheap, or as linear as you imagine, but what’s beyond it can be even better than what you’ve dreamed. Our story is proof of that.

    Our 1957 camper — who we lovingly refer to as Hamlet — was in quite a state when he rolled into our driveway in the late winter of 2011. While not a complete teardown, he needed moderate-to-major work both inside and outside. (So much so that about half-way through the project, we got in a tiny conflict over the use of the cordless drill.) Once, as Hutch was working on new sheet metal on the roof, Shari wanted to install a wine-glass rack over the sink.

    “I need to see some cute,” Shari said imploringly, “I need to have some hope!”

    After downsizing and renting out our home, we were in deep. And, truth was, we both needed to see some light at the end of the tunnel. Fortunately, the future ahead of our vintage RV restoration was even brighter than expected.

     

    Day 1 of Hamlet’s renovation.

     

    The Light at the End of a Vintage RV Restoration

    After traveling approximately over 200,000 miles in 12 and a half years through 49 U.S. States and 10 Canadian Provinces, our lil’ vintage home-on-wheels has proven to be up for just about any road challenge. We look back on those project times with fondness and a feeling that it was all worthwhile. Hamlet has now been to all 51 national parks you can drive to, as well as 13 Parks Canada sites.

    Have we fixed it along the way? Of course! Does it require a lot of maintenance? Some, but nothing really major. (All rigs require maintenance.) Since we know our rig inside and out, we’ve been able to do 99 percent of the work ourselves by using some relatively simple tools, creativity and ingenuity, and a heavy dose of resourcefulness.

     

    Later on, putting the final finishing touches on Hamlet.

     

    What to Avoid When Selecting a Vintage Rig

    Jeremy — a vintage camper restorer and owner of Down River Vintage Trailer Restoration in Winlock, Washington — never gives a quote to anyone on their trailer project until he first fully removes the aluminum outer shell and takes a good look at what’s underneath.

    Why is that? If you are seeking an easy to moderate amount of work, you’ll want to find a trailer with good bones. Perhaps it only needs some updating, polishing, painting, or redecorating. If you are up for a major project, no restoration or renovation is impossible. But every vintage is somewhere on that continuum. It just depends on how deep you want to dive in!

    Below are some things to avoid if you are NOT up for a truly challenging and very time-consuming project:
     

    Red Flags for a Vintage RV Restoration 

    • Very strong musty smell (some is normal)
    • Significant damaging leaks (small leaks can be dealt with)
    • Major rust on frame/tongue (surface level is OK)
    • Major structural problems (what’s causing it to lean?)
    • Soft spots in the floor (usually requires a complete tear down!)
    • Electrical/appliances/propane not working (not impossible, just time consuming)
    • Broke windows or door handles (hard to find parts unless it’s a popular model)
    • Exterior dents or damage (will require replacement, very time consuming)
    • Bent tongue or hitch (will need to be replaced before towing)
    • Broken axle/bearings (will need to be replaced before towing)
    • Owner doesn’t have the title (some states will accept a bill of sale for registration, but others are very particular — check out the DMV rules in your state before buying!)
    • Completely stripped down on the inside (no cabinets, etc.)
      *People buy these old rigs, then get overwhelmed and just sell; but often, they’ve already torn the inside apart. While it looks like it could save you time, BUYER BEWARE, as removing all cabinets removes structural integrity!

     

     

    Do’s & Don’ts When Diving Into a Vintage Project

    Definitely do …

    • Keep the big picture in mind. Even so, try not to let it overwhelm you. Set small goals along the way and celebrate accomplishments.
    • Determine what you can DIY. Figure out what you can do and what you need to hire out for. There’s no shame in knowing your limits!
    • Research, research, research! Bookmark good resources. Here are some of our favorite websites and social media sites.
    • Secure a long-term workspace. If possible, find a covered / indoor place to do the work. It’ll save you both time and some weather-related anxiety and give you the flexibility to do the work whenever you can.
    • Decide where to start. If you choose a complete teardown, start with the outside. If not, start wherever it makes sense for you – or work on a bit of both depending on the weather and your working location.
    • Make friends with other restorers. This can happen both online and in person. Check out Vintage Camper Trailers BootCamp to learn from experts in the field – all in one place!

     

    Please don’t …

    • Go for a gutted trailer. Avoid trailers that have been completely gutted on the inside – they lose much of their structural integrity without cabinets, closets, bench seats, etc. They should never be transported in that condition without some serious internal bracing.
    • Be haphazard with material choices. Never use pressure treated wood where it could come into contact with aluminum siding. This type of wood is often treated with copper which can leach out of the wood and actually corrode the softer aluminum.
    • Rush to repaint. To paint or not to paint? That is the question. If the trailer was already painted, definitely have it redone.  But if it was originally unpainted aluminum, it might be better to simply polish, check out this great resource for polishing aluminum.  We chose to paint over our trim, door and window frames and polish the rest of the aluminum.

     

    Look Past the Ugly — Imagine What’s Possible!

    When our 1957 Sportcraft arrived in our driveway, the siding looked like aged duct tape, with sheet metal screws rusting, mildew and muck all over the exterior, and some small separation issues on the sides. And for, some reason, the previous owner who “restored it to sell” used tubes and tubes of silicone caulk everywhere — which took many days and a lot of elbow grease to remove. Even so, Shari didn’t fail to notice something about our new trailer, “He’s got good bones!”

    To see that, you had to look past some things. The inside had been “updated” with new yet hideous curtains. The two layers of flooring were cracked and peeling. The bed sagged in the middle, and you could feel the springs in the dinette bench seats poking through. Plus, there was some water damage on the wooden walls and ceiling. (See some highlights of where Hamlet started.)

    But Hamlet, as we came to call our trailer, is a success story. We bought Hamlet for $900. And since 2011, we have put about $4,500 into it. Here’s a list of what we did to renovate it over the course of a year and half, as well as some fix-its since we’ve been living in Hamlet full-time.

     

    Inside Hamlet’s Vintage RV Restoration

    • Removed and rebuilt dinette seats to accommodate storage underneath. We hired a local upholsterer to construct and sew the cushions and pillows. This was money well spent, because neither did we own a sewing machine or have any experience with specialty sewing.
    • Sanded and shellacked all walls, cabinets, drawers, etc.
    • Removed all curtains, replaced with venetian blinds and installed blackout curtains around the bed for good sleeping and to keep the heat out.
    • Rebuilt kitchen cabinet above counter and replaced all the hardware and electrical. (Tip: Don’t completely strip down cabinets; do them one by one for the same reason we mentioned earlier.)
    • Found a replacement for the missing stove. Don’t skimp here and simply put in a camping stove as they burn less efficiently and could release carbon monoxide or noxious fumes inside your camper.
    • Tore out the old bed. We then rebuilt it with a divider and accessible storage baskets underneath and invested in a super comfy mattress. (Seriously, the most comfortable bed we’ve ever slept on!)
    • Replaced faucet and plumbing, and added super helpful dish sprayer.
    • Peeled up two layers of linoleum flooring. We then put down a new thin layer of sub-flooring and replaced with black-and-white checkerboard linoleum tiles.
    • Added new 12-volt LED strip lighting and refurbished existing lights.
    • Removed the old roof vent and replaced it with a 12-volt Fantastic vent fan.
    • Removed the ice tray on the old ice box and installed some shelving to make it a more usable space for dry food.
    • Renovated the main closet to make it more functional. We added shelves and a behind the door pocket rack for easy grab storage.

     

     

    Outside Work Restoring Hamlet to Vintage Condition

    • Fabricated new “gearage door” that was previously screwed shut. We hired a local machine shop to make this for us as we didn’t have the tools.
    • Repaired minor dents and scratches in the door with Bondo. Then we painted window trim, frames and door. We weren’t able to restore the finish on these items so decided to add some fun color instead.
    • Replaced windows with Lexan plastic. We outsourced the cutting and shaping.
    • Removed all aluminum from the front to back. We added blue-foam insulation into each space between and sealed with spray foam before installing new aluminum.
    • Replaced every single one of the 957 screws with stainless-steel screws to prevent future rusting.
    • Retained the original pleated sides, which help with heat expansion and contraction. We polished, polished, and polished some more until we could see our reflection!
    • Added a bike rack by welding on a hitch receiver to the frame. (We used the same machine shop that did our “gearage” door.)
    • Replaced trailer brake/turn signal lights with brighter LED lights, and added additional lights below the back window and on the bike rack for higher visibility.
    • Scraped and painted tongue and propane tank tray.
    • Added propane tanks and replaced hoses to run both our two-burner stove and Mr. Heater Portable Buddy.
    • Added diamond plate along bottom to create a more finished look (and hide some of the previous fixit flaws).
    • Replaced axle and bearings, tires, leaf springs, and hubcaps. These were all done post remodel and were outsourced to a shop that specializes in trailers, not RV’s.
    • Installed a basic solar-powered system, which has evolved significantly over the years!

     

     

    Whew, and if that list isn’t intimidating enough for you, remember: Take it one step at a time and keep yourself motivated by focusing on that day you will pull out of your driveway!

  • Desert RV Camping 101: A Guide

    Desert RV Camping 101: A Guide

    When we were kids, our parents often drove us through the desert, not too it. The desert was a fleeting scene in the passenger window on the way to “somewhere else.” Somewhere beautiful, somewhere fun. Like many, they considered the desert to be a barren wasteland — something to endure in order to get anywhere interesting. But now, adults and full-time RVers see the desert differently. Now, the desert is the destination. Understandably, interest in desert RV camping has skyrocketed with it.

    After spending several winter seasons exploring all four of North America’s deserts (like many snowbirds), we are officially hooked on these surprising and stunning places!

    So, for anyone interest in desert RV camping, we’ll take a closer look at the misconceptions, rewards, rules, and regions of the American desert.

     

    The Mirage of Desert Misconceptions

    The word “desert” often conjures up negative images for many people — almost all dry, hot, sandy, barren, even dangerous. To be fair, there are times of the year that aren’t as appealing as others. Even so, our experiences have directly contradicted nearly all of these assumptions. We experienced one of the snowiest winters as well as one of the wettest weekends on record. We snuggled up on chilly nights. Got lost wandering among Saguaro forests. Watched super blooms appear almost overnight. And we marveled at the migrating and resident birds we’d never experienced anywhere else.

    The diversity of the desert, as well as the stark differences among our four North American desert ecosystems, stretch nearly 730,000 square miles across eight western states — and large swaths of Mexico. Even after four months of hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and exploring, we feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface of the beauty, intrigue, and allure of these amazing landscapes.  

     

    A Land of Abundant Campsites

    For anyone who RVs, no matter what make, model, or size of rig, the western deserts offer opportunities for camping that few other parts of the world can. No other region in this country can beat the concentration and acreage of accessible public land. It is a boondockers paradise, at least from October through April.

    Quartzsite, Arizona is famous among desert-dwelling RVers, drawing nearly 2 million RVers each winter housed with millions of acres of BLM land — all within 25 miles of this tiny hamlet of less than 4,000 year round residents. Nearly every kind of RV, motorhome, fifth wheel, van, toy hauler, and travel trailer could be found scattered across the landscape. Within the La Posa Long-Term Visitor Area, run by the BLM near Quartzite, folks can stay for up to seven months for less than $200 — and still have all the services they need within a short drive.

    We wandered into canyons, valleys and hilltops, where we were the only humans in sight. We hiked into areas that most reach by ATV. But no matter how you get in, the wonders are the same. The evidence of pr-history human development abounding throughout the region proves that our millenia isn’t the only to hear the desert’s call. From pictographs and grain pounding holes to cave dwellings perched high up a sandstone wall, what remains of those who came before can be a constant companion as you explore these regions.

     

    What the Desert Teaches — and Reveals

    Nature has valuable lessons to teach here. Once, we drove up a winding dirt road, which crossed several washes, up to Cochise Stronghold in the Dragoon Mountains of southern Arizona for a night of camping and a forecast of a light rain. We awoke to 3.5 inches,and a wall of water rushing across the washes keeping everyone in place for the next few days. Fortunately, we had plenty of food, enough to share with the campers next to us, who had only brought enough for the night. A good camaraderie emerged among the other stranded campers as we simply accepted what we could not change and enjoyed every last minute of it.

    If your timing is right, you might be rewarded with nature’s abundant beauty.  When desert super blooms steal the headlines. And we’ve been right in the middle of it all. Rolling into a camping space at dusk gives little indication of what flowers might be pushing up all around you. In the morning, our curiosity was rewarded by little solar panels of yellow and orange blanketing the landscape, California Poppies as far as we could see. When the conditions are perfect for this little wild flower, and many others, they capture the world’s attention.   

    Because we boondock with solar as our main source of power, living in the desert is a no-brainer in the winter. With the abundance of sunshine, at all altitudes, our battery is always back up to a 100-percent charge by 11 a.m. We never run out of energy, nor worry about it.  Going solar frees us up to enjoy these areas right up to our stay limit. All we need is an occasional resupply of water and groceries … and a laundromat. 

     

    Crucial Desert RV Camping Tips

    What to Bring Along

    • Water. Drink lots of water and always carry plenty of extra water with you, even if you are just driving an hour to your next destination. The dryness can dehydrate you very quickly even in cooler weather. If you get a headache, you are probably already dehydrated.
    • Patch kits. Be prepared to do tire maintenance. This is not the place you want to be stranded —by RV or bike. While mountain biking, bring extra inner tubes as well as a patch kit. We went through two inner tubes per week, even with Slime protection in our tires.
    • Solar. The options for campgrounds and boondocking are limitless. You won’t need to stay in RV parks or expensive “hook up” campgrounds, or even make reservations.
    • Watercraft. Bring your boats! You surprised? There’s plenty of water everywhere. Just be sure to stop at each Boat Inspection Station to get checked and cleared of invasive species.

     

    How to Live in the Desert

    • Wake up. Even if you are not a morning person, try to get up and watch the sunrise a few times. It will set your day right. The sunrises and sunsets are the best light of the day. 
    • Keep snakes top of mind. Be aware, but not afraid of snakes. We didn’t see a single one in four months as they are cold blooded and don’t like being outside in the cooler months. Even so, they live in the desert. So, they shouldn’t be out of your decision-making processes when it comes to moving around and picking things up.
    • See everything you touch. Be aware of where you put your feet and hands while climbing around on rocks.  Everything in the desert pokes, stings, scratches, and bites.
    • Unstick the stickers. Cholla cacti are like painful velcro and they stick to absolutely everything. Bring a hair pick or long-toothed comb with you when hiking or mountain biking to remove this unwanted friend from your shoe, leg, et cetera.
    • Don’t ignore rain. Creeks and washes can rise quickly with just a bit of rain. Never cross water unless you know how deep it is and can assess its flow. Turn around, don’t drown. 
    • Tread lightly. While there may not appear to be life in the desert soil, it is very fragile. Cryptobiotic soil can take hundreds of years to regrow if accidentally stepped on.  Watch where you step!
    • Dip your hat. When the weather is warm, dip your hat in cold water before putting it on your head. It’ll keep you cooler than just putting it on dry.

     

    Notes on the Four Deserts of North America

    Can you name the four deserts in North America? We’ve found that most people struggle to name even one, so we thought we’d start with a bit of natural history and geography before diving into some highlights in each region.

     

    Great Basin Desert

    Classified as a cold mid-latitude desert, the Great Basin Desert covers an arid expanse of about 190,000 square miles. This makes it the biggest on the continent. It is bordered by the Sierra Nevada range on the west, the Wasatch Mountains on the east, the Columbia Plateau on the north, and the Mojave Desert on the south. Its distinctive natural feature is rugged north–south-trending mountain ranges interspersed with broad sweeping valleys.

    Due to its remoteness, this desert does not draw many visitors for desert RV camping. (Which, ironically, makes it more … deserted.) This region is home to one of the most intriguing roads — Highway 50, known as the “Loneliest Road in America.” One of the Earth’s oldest trees, the Bristlecone Pine, finds its home at an elevation of 10,000 feet in Great Basin National Park.  

    A Few of Our Favorite Areas to Camp: Great Basin National Park, Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest, Ruby Mountains,  Wild Horse Reservoir State Recreation Area

     

    Sonoran Desert

    Covering 120,000 square miles in southwestern Arizona and southeastern California, U.S., and including much of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, part of Baja California state, and the western half of the state of Sonora, the Sonoran Desert has a subtropical climate and receives three to 15 inches of rain per year. Most of the precipitation comes during monsoon season (July–September), when strong, brief thunderstorms bring heavy rain.  Typically, lighter winter rainfall also occurs.  A distinctive feature of the Sonoran Desert is the majestic Saguaro cacti, many of which are hundreds of years old.  The mountain ranges dotted amongst this desert create a diversity of ecosystems rising above the desert floor, creating wetter and cooler “Islands in the Sky.”

    A Few of Our Favorite Areas to Camp: Cochise Stronghold, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge, Superstition Mountains, Tonto National Forest

     

    Mojave Desert

    Named for the Mojave people, the Mojave Desert occupies more than 25,000 square miles — extending from the Sierra Nevada range to the Colorado Plateau and merges with the Great Basin to the north and the Sonoran Desert to the south and southeast.  The fascinating Joshua Tree is unique to the Mojave area, as it’s the only place it thrives.

    A Few of Our Favorite Areas to Camp: Alabama Hills, Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Red Rocks Canyon National Conservation Area, Valley of Fire State Park

     

    Chihuahuan Desert

    To the east of the Sonoran Desert lies the huge Chihuahuan Desert. With an area of about 140,000 square miles, it is the second largest desert in North America.  It occupies much of West Texas, parts of the middle and lower Rio Grande Valley and the lower Pecos Valley in New Mexico, and a portion of southeastern Arizona, as well as the central and northern portions of the Mexican Plateau.  Lechuguilla (Agave lechuguilla), one of the indicator plants, as it is found only in this desert.  It flowers just once in its lifetime, then promptly dies.

    A Few of Our Favorite Areas to Camp: Big Bend National Park, Chiricahua National Monument (on the edge of this desert ecosystem), Hot Wells Dunes Recreation Area, White Sands National Park

     

    The Joy of Desert RV Camping

    Whether camping just outside of Tucson, or a hundred miles from anywhere in Nevada, the motto for visiting the desert is the same: Be prepared.  With a little planning and an ounce of adventurous spirit, you too can answer the desert’s calling.

     

  • Death Valley National Park: RV Travel and Camping Guide

    Death Valley National Park: RV Travel and Camping Guide

    Located along the California/Nevada border and just east of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this place  valley of extremes. Death Valley National Park swings from snow covered peaks in the winter to wildflower super blooms in the spring. Here, a rare spring rainstorm may be followed by heat waves over 120 degrees Fahrenheit and a drought that lasts through the summer months. Death Valley boasts the  lowest elevation as well as the hottest and driest climate in North America. However, despite its morbid name, a diversity of life springs forth from this fascinating valley.

    While you might expect Death Valley to intimidate travelers, its eccentric wonders act like a magnet for nature lovers, desert campers, and RV enthusiasts across the continent. As the largest national park outside of Alaska, there are enough things to do and see in Death Valley National Park that even a week-long visit will leave you yearning to return!

    So, let’s drive into how you can ensure you can make the most of your trip — all while RVing safely.

     

    Cracked mud on the valley floor surrounded by snowy peaks. Just a glimpse at the exciting extremes found here.

     

    Scenic Drives 

    Death Valley National Park offers nearly one thousand miles of paved and dirt roads for recreation and exploration. Just about every drive offers stunning views. There are surrounding peaks and an expansive valley floor. The park is full of many unique features.  Some of the most interesting drives allow you to explore the Artist’s Palette, Racetrack Playa, Badwater Basin, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and the Ubehebe Crater.  

    If you want to try some four-wheel drive roads, it’s important not to rely on GPS. Detailed maps are available from the Death Valley Natural History Association. So, grab one. Bring survival gear, spare tires, extra food, and plenty of water if you head out on one of these rough roads. If your vehicle isn’t up for the challenge, consider renting a Jeep from a local outfitter. These vehicles are designed for rugged, backcountry travel if your RV isn’t.

    As mentioned earlier, the distances in the valley are vast. So, be sure to fuel up before coming into the park, especially if you plan to do multiple scenic drives. Gas and diesel are available in the valley, but the prices tend to be quite high.

    RV Tip! Download the free NPS App to enjoy a self-guided driving tour.  Be sure to “save park for offline use,” as cell service is poor in Death Valley. App tours include a park highlights driving tour, a Star Wars film location driving tour, and even a Golden Canyon hiking tour. (See Insider Tips below.)

     

    Artist Palette Drive.

     

    Must-Hike Trails 

    Hiking trails abound in Death Valley Nation Park, from the lowest to the highest elevations in the park — and everywhere in between. Here are a few of our favorites:

     

    Badwater Basin Salt Flats

    This “choose your own adventure “hike is at the lowest elevation of North America. It’s completely flat. It’s also just one mile out-and-back to the edge of the fascinating salt flats, which cover 200 square miles of the valley. If you choose to continue across the valley, plan on five miles each way. While easy, flat walking, it can be deadly hot in the middle of the day in the summer. Difficulty: Easy to challenging, depending on the time of year/day

     

    Golden Canyon

    This three- to eight-mile hike offers many options depending on where you start and end. The whole thing can be done in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Either way, the trail winds you through a maze of canyons and washes. You go up and over some fascinating rock formations and petrified dunes, with valley views all around. Difficulty: Easy to moderate, depending on trail length

     

    Mosaic Canyon

    This gorgeous four-mile, round-trip hike winds you through slithering slot canyons and short, steep climbs. Its route takes you up and over layers of sculpted marble and colorful sandstone. The first halfmile is relatively easy walking in sand then becomes a bit more of a moderate hike the further in you go. Difficulty: Moderate

     

    Mesquite Flat Dunes

    These wind-sculpted dunes are the most famous and accessible sand dunes in Death Valley. While it’s just two miles out-and-back to the tallest dune, walking in deep sand can take two to three times the distance. So, plan accordingly. Also note: Sand can be extremely hot or cold depending on the time of year. Difficulty: Easy to challenging, depending on the time of year

     

     

    RV Parks & Campgrounds

    With thousands of acres of wide-open space, RV camping abounds in this park, both public and private, no matter what size rig you drive. We have often thought that of the 53 percent of NPS campsites that can accommodate 45-foot-plus rigs, Death Valley must house most of them.

     

    Park Campgrounds

    The NPS manages over 600 RV campsites in the park, but just 18 sites at Furnace Creek Campground offer full hook-ups. The other five NPS campgrounds are first-come, first-served, no hook-ups, and more like “RV parking lots” with no trees or shade. All offer stunning views of the mountain peaks all around. It’s important to note that some campgrounds do not allow generators. So, bring those solar panels, as there is plenty of sunshine to generate all your own power silently!

    If your rig is set-up for traveling on very rough terrain, roadside camping is allowed along dirt roads at least one mile away from the junction with any paved road or “day use only” dirt road. Permits and reservations are required in some locations. Check the park website for details.

     

    Private Campgrounds

    Privately operated campgrounds within the valley accept reservations year-round at Stovepipe Wells RV Park, The Oasis at Death Valley Fiddlers’ Campground, and Panamint Springs Resort. While privately run, most of the sites within these private campgrounds do not offer RV hook-ups. However, they do offer showers, a pool, and other resort amenities.

    For boondocking options, the park is surrounded by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and they allow permit-free RV and tent camping. (The Dyrt PRO campground locator app makes it easy to find this free public land.)

     

     

    Seasonal Advice 

    Death Valley is full of superlatives. In addition to being the largest national park in the contiguous 48 states, it is also the hottest place on the planet and the driest place in North America. Summer temperatures often top 110 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade with overnight lows dipping into the 80s. Average rainfall is less than two inches, a fraction of what most deserts receive. Occasional thunderstorms, especially in late summer, can cause flash flooding. 

    Unless you are a hot weather lover, the most comfortable months to explore this park are November through March, when the weather is typically very pleasant. Winter daytime temperatures are mild in the low elevations, with cool nights that only occasionally dip below freezing. Higher elevations will be much cooler than in the valley.

    Sunny skies are the norm, but winter storms and summer monsoons can bring cloud cover and rain. Wind is common, especially in the spring, and extreme dust storms can suddenly pop up ahead of cold fronts. So, watch those awnings and easy-up tents.

    Come prepared for sun, wind, rain, and intense dust storms, and you’ll have a wonderful time exploring this fascinating national park!

     

     

    Insider Tips!

    Unique Oportunities

    Ranger-Led Programs. Offered daily during the winter season, with topics ranging from history to geology to space! No reservations required, just check the park’s website or visitor’s center for more specific information.

    Night Sky Viewing. With the clear skies and lack of city lights nearby, you are (nearly) guaranteed the best night sky viewing you’ll ever experience! Join their annual Dark Sky Festival in late February for talks, fairs, and astrophotography.

    Sunrise & Sunsets. Some of the most stunning times to see the desert are at the beginning and end of the day, when the low-angle sunlight enhances the diversity of desert hues and illuminates its many moods. While there are several places to watch these daily light shows, you will never forget a sunrise from Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes or Zabriskie Point or sunset from Dante’s View or Badwater Basin — all truly magical!

     

     

    Fun Activities

    Biking. Ranging from easy paved bike paths to rougher dirt/gravel roads, biking in Death Valley is one of the most beautiful ways to experience it. The park offers a wide selection of roads which allow riders to experience it in a unique way. Check out the park’s website for recommended routes and details about road surface and distances.

    Canyoneering. If you are into this sport that involves scrambling, climbing, and rappelling into canyons with ropes and harnesses, you are probably aware that Death Valley offers some of the most epic options. If you are a beginner, this valley is not where you should begin, but it should remain on your bucket-list as the routes are endless and challenging.

    Golfing. Yes, really! While not managed by the NPS, Death Valley is the only U.S. national park with a golf course. The Ranch at Death Valley runs the Furnace Creek Golf Course at 214 feet below sea level and is one of the greenest spots in the valley.

    Ice Cream Parlor. While we rarely promote the food services offered in most national parks, the traditional ice cream parlor that is located at The Ranch at Death Valley resort is absolutely worth a stop after a big hike or bike ride, or just a special treat on a hot day!

  • Finding Your Vintage Camper Style

    Finding Your Vintage Camper Style

    Discovering your personal style can be a process that is hard to describe. Even a little mysterious. As an example, before we became full-time RVers, we once searched for hours to find the perfect couch for our new apartment. Nothing inspired either of us until we stumbled upon a futon with a colorful abstract pattern. It reminded us of ice tinkling in a highball cocktail glass. It immediately spoke to both of us — for reasons neither of us could quite articulate. Similarly, we reached decisions the same way when we bought our house. And our cars. And — you guessed it — our full-time vintage camper. What was it about the vintage camper style that drew our attention? Taste.

    When we first saw on the “canned ham,” mid-century camper that’s become our rolling home since 2012, we just felt it was right. We were attracted by the cozy all-wood interior and unpainted aluminum exterior — not to mention the smiles it brought to our faces. (Some tell us we look like a postcard rolling down the road.) When we saw it, we knew it: That was our vintage camper style.

    But if you’re at the beginning of your journey, you might ask, “How do I figure out my vintage camper style? Where do I even start?”

    From recognizing personal taste to brushing up on am little vintage camper know-how, we’ll git you a jump start into age-old adventure.

     

    Vintage Camper Style Starts with Personal Taste

    Personal taste is, of course, personal — even if you’re lucky enough to share a style vibe with your partner. One person’s fashion faux pas is another person’s carefully curated statement.   While I really wanted to paint big, bright, hippie flowers all over the aluminum siding, we compromised with a bright purple door and flaming red trim and colorful, floral interior. And of course, RVs are no different. While we might argue that today’s models answer our modern needs, really, aren’t we just buying into what is fashionable according to our own style? 

    Finding a vintage camper style that suits you sounds like a simple matter, but with so many directions to go, where do you begin? The research could lead you on such a deep dive that you may never come up for air long enough to purchase your dream project. We can’t say that we haven’t warned you. (After all, we did tell you everything you want to consider before you restore a vintage camper.)

     

     

    A Very Quick History of the Modern Vintage

    At the turn of the 20th century, automobiles started rumbling across the streets and back-roads of our country. Not too long into the second decade, one-of-a-kind camper vans (precursors to modern motorhomes) began popping up to combine the freedom of travel along with the comfort of living and sleeping along the way. Even with incomes rising prior to the late 1920s, most middle-class families couldn’t afford both a vehicle for everyday life and another to take on vacation. As a result, the detachable travel trailer proliferated and still makes up the largest section of the RV industry today.  

    While many manufacturers began cranking out standardized versions, the hey-day of what we now consider the “vintage camper” came after the end of WWII. With the post-war economic boom and manufacturing processes well established to meet demand, aluminum-sided, lightweight, and affordable travel trailers took to the highways for their much longed for vacation. And the golden age of the American road trip took off down Route 66!

     

    What’s in a Name: Vintage Camper Lingo

    If you’re just starting the journey to find your vintage camper style, you might think a lot of terms are synonymous. Retro and vintage. Classic and antique. Aren’t they the same thing. No, no, no. Each term is a specific reference.

    So, let’s get you smart — quick. Here are some of the accepted definitions for older or older looking RVs:

     

    Retro

    New construction designed to look old — often has modern appliances and technology but designed to resemble the older models. Interior materials include wood, wood paneling, plastic, and modern composite materials. Most commonly, these will mimic the “canned ham” style travel trailer. Exterior is often painted or coated during the manufacturing process.

     

    Classic

    More than 20 years old, with a wide array of styles. Materials include plastic, plastic laminate, wood paneling, vinyl, and some modern composite materials. Most of these offer manufactured painted siding to prevent (or slow down) the oxidation of aluminum. 

     

    Vintage

    Made from 1946 to 1969, these babies are the very essence of mid-century modern. If you like the style depicted in “The Incredibles” movies, this is your jam. Materials include real wood interiors, with some Formica countertops, with aluminum trim pieces and appliances, and vinyl flooring. Ice boxes and gas lanterns were still being used. Aluminum siding can be painted, or unpainted which can lead to a dull appearance over time due to oxidation. However, these can be restored to their original shine with some elbow grease and the right polishing compound.

     

    Antique

    Beginning in 1945 (or earlier), there’s lots of variation in these early models but most offer all wood interiors with cast iron cooking and heating appliances, gas lanterns, and ice boxes rather than electrical refrigeration. Exteriors come in all kinds of materials including treated leather, wood, or aluminum. 

     

    Common Shapes that Define the Vintage Look

    Canned Ham

    Harkening back to the cured pork product from the ’50s, this style is streamlined front to back with vertical sides that are high enough to facilitate standing up inside. These are usually single axle trailers. Typical floorplans include a banquet that could be converted to a sleeping space, and a full-time bed or convertible couch/sleeping area. They often define the “happy camper” image marketed on everything from pillows to mugs.

     

     

    Teardrop

    These small streamlined, single-axle towables offer inside sleeping areas and some storage, but they are typically not tall enough to facilitate standing. The kitchen area is accessed through a hatch on the outside of the camper, where the teardrop shape comes to a point.

     

    Bread Loaf

    Squarish with vertical sides but with rounded corners, these can range in length from less than 20 feet with a single axle to over 40 feet “park models.”

     

     

    Over Bumper

    These are variations of the canned ham or bread loaf styles that offer a sleeping or storage area that pops out above the trailer tongue like a small fifth wheel, adding some sleeping/storage space to the standard interior layout.  

     

    Aircraft/Streamlined

    More tubular than square, these aerodynamic towables are often the very image of what folks imagine when they conjure up an image of a vintage camper.

     

     

    Pop-Up

    These convertible trailers are a cross between a hard-sided camper and a tent. As the name implies, they expand to become an inside living space, often with sleeping areas hanging off the front and back, only to fold down again for more compact towing. 

     

     

    Inspiration for Your Vintage Camper Style

    Not sure of your vintage camper style yet? No worries. (You just got started.) Here are a few great ways to get your vintage groove on, both in person and online.

     

    Visit the Vintage Camper Museum in Elkhart

    If you’re driving through northern Indiana, it’s worth stopping to tour this place as there is quite a bit of history here. They even have some good historical references in their library from trade journals going all the way back into the 1930s. 

     

     

    Attend Vintage Camper Rallies

    Vintage Camper Trailer Magazine and Tin Can Tourists sponsor several rallies every year.  Many of these events have an open house period for the public to come and tour.

     

    Stay at a Vintage Camper Campground

    Found all over the country, these unique campgrounds offer several private, fully-restored campers as “cabins,” all in one place. Book a weekend in one and tour some others to see what you might want in your own vintage rig.

     

    Join a Vintage Club

    Both in person and online, you can find brand-specific clubs — Tin Can Tourists, and Sisters on the Fly (for women only). Just type in what you are seeking into any search engine, and you’ll have a weekend of fun ahead of you!

     

    Open Vintage Camper Trailer Magazine

    Dedicated to this unique hobby, this bimonthly publication allows you to learn from the experts while perusing the various styles through the ages.

    *****

    It’s important to not think about these old trailers as fragile little “hot house flowers.” They were built well, with quality materials, and if you treat them well, there’s simply no stopping them. We’ve been all over this continent, and we’ve always enjoyed the comforts of our little home on wheels. Our Canned Ham — “Hamlet” — is celebrating his 68th birthday this year, but he’s not even thinking about retirement!

     

  • Flavor of Love: Affordable and Accessible RV Wine Tours

    Flavor of Love: Affordable and Accessible RV Wine Tours

    Even if you are not a wine enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with some of the big names among  the grape growing regions in the U.S. Names like Willamette Valley in Oregon and the world-famous Napa Valley in California. But you might be surprised to know that some of the best wine destinations aren’t even on the West Coast. They are, in fact, all over the country. From the Southwest to the Smokies and up to the peninsulas of Michigan, there’s as much diversity in American wine as there are places to park your RV! Which means that no matter where you’re starting from, you have a ripe selection of RV wine tours.

     

    Believe it or not, there are vineyards in New Mexico. In fact, they are some of the oldest on the continent.

     

    Indulging in region-specific wine — and culinary delights that come with them — is an activity that RVs seem made for. Quite simply, your RV is one of the best ways to experience the diverse food culture in America. Because where there is wine, there is almost always fantastic food. But, if you’ve priced out a Valentine’s or anniversary weekend in Napa … well, we know exactly what you are thinking! For lots of folks, it simply costs too much.

    But take heart. Exploring the wine regions of the U.S. in your RV does not mean you have to spend your annual vacation budget on a single weekend trip. But if you’re considering which RV wine tours might suit you best, there is one membership you definitely don’t want to be without.

     

    One Membership that Will Save You Big

    While you can simply stay at campgrounds near wine country, an annual membership to Harvest Hosts provides you a free and delightfully quiet place to stay the night in your RV — at over 1,000 vineyards across the country. (And, of course, also a stay at thousands of other unique locations.) With their annual $99 membership, it costs less than a quarter of a single night in a four-star wine country hotel. That way, you can enjoy a trip to a wine region several times per year at a fraction of the cost. (If you are not yet a Harvest Hosts member, this link will save you 15 percent on your first year’s membership! )

     

    Harvest Hosts all lined up.

     

    Personally, we’ve stayed at lots of Harvest Hosts wineries — from North Carolina to Washington State. In doing so, we’ve learned a ton about what makes each area a fantastic grape growing region. To make the most of our Harvest Hosts membership, we often go out to an early dinner before heading to our stop for the night. Then we enjoy the sunset and a glass of wine on their patio. Sometimes, we stop by a local cheese shop, bakery, and chocolatier to pick up some fun charcuterie delights then pair them with a bottle of wine that we’ve just sampled from the winery in which we are staying the night. One night, we even got to watch the full moon rise over the vineyard! Add candles and your favorite music, and you’ve created the ultimate romantic night among the vines in your very own RV.

     

    Wine and travel together make for a wonderfully romantic RV trip.

     

    No. 1 Tip: Drive to Drink vs. Drink and Drive

    Naturally, all this come with a friendly reminder to never ever drink and drive. The whole idea, really, is that you won’t even be tempted to. You drive to the location where you want to taste, buy, and open more wine — and there you stay. All you need to do is walk from the winery to your RV. No driving is necessary. Many hosts now offer multiple night stays too.

    What’s more, some of these grape-growing regions are located in beautiful places. That means you can also explore the natural world and/or wander through historic cities, exploring the areas surrounding these unique wine regions of America is half of the fun. Many of these RV wine tours are even within a day’s drive of a national park!  

     

     

    8 Regions Ripe for RV Wine Tours

    Boise, Idaho: The Spud State Surprise

    The Spud State is one of those places that continues to surprise! It’s not just potatoes anymore. The varied climate and topography make it a booming wine region.  The Eagle Foothills, part of the spectacular Sawtooth Range, is well-suited to growing Rhone and Bordeaux wines, specifically Syrah and Cabernet. There are several vineyards that offer a peaceful atmosphere just outside this vibrant and incredibly friendly city. Boise is also centrally located to several national parks within a one- or two-day drive:  Arches, Utah; Crater Lake, Oregon; Great Basin, Nevada; Mount Rainier, Washington; and Yellowstone, Wyoming.

     

    Sedona, Arizona: An Intro to Delicious Desert Wine

    The hot days and cool nights of this mountainous region of Arizona allow those Italian reds like Sangiovese, as well as Rhone Valley varietals like Syrah and Grenache, to grow particularly well in the vineyards of the Verde Valley. The Grand Canyon State is also becoming known for delicious sparkling wines, so plan a visit if you have something special to celebrate! Local Sedona culture speaks for itself, but what most don’t realize is how close this famous spiritual place is to other spectacular public lands. If you’ve never been to the Superstition Mountains, trust us when we say you are in for a Sonoran Desert treat!

     

    Las Cruces, New Mexico: An Ancient Grape in the Land of Spice

    Winemaking has been a New Mexican tradition for more than 500 years. It all started when Spanish priests first planted the region’s wine grapes. There are now more than 50 wineries in the Chile Capital of the World, with many of them clustered along the riverbanks of the Rio Grande. The region’s intense sun and dry climate make for powerful, complex wines which hold up well to the culinary masterpieces that New Mexican chefs dish out. While in the area, be sure to wander the streets, bars, and restaurants of old town in this historic city — and, of course, pay a visit to Carlsbad Caverns or White Sands National Parks, both located within a few hours of Las Cruces.

     

    Grand Junction, Colorado: A Mountain View’s Perfect Pairing

    With high-altitude terrain and reliably sunny days, the western slopes of Colorado has been a fruit-growing region for several generations and is perfect for making wine — with many of the vineyards set against a dramatic Rocky Mountain backdrop. Expect full-bodied Chardonnays and fruit-forward Merlots that will stand up to Napa’s best. Early winters allow the area to make outstanding dessert ice wines made from grapes frozen on the vine. And, of course, you are just a day’s drive from either Rocky Mountain National Park or the four corners region including Mesa Verde National Park!

     

    St. Louis, Missouri: Tasting the American Rhine 

    German immigrants planted the first European vines in the area over a century ago, which led to naming it the “American Rhine.” Since then, Missouri wineries and vineyards have grown where you’ll find hybrids like Vignoles, as well as native American grapes, including concord and catawba. Be sure to visit the Gateway Arch National Park while you are in the area, too!

     

    Traverse City, Michigan: A Sea of Lake-Cooled Varietals

    The Mitten State’s cold winters, warm summers, and glacially-tilled sandy soils near the lakes make it surprisingly similar to some parts of Europe, and an ideal location for growing wine grapes and other fruit. Just above Traverse City and situated along the 45th parallel are two peninsula’s — Old Mission and Leelanau. Dotted along these two skinny land masses extending into Lake Michigan are over 30 wineries — with Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc being just a few of the varietals that have been internationally recognized for their excellence! Ice wines are also a specialty of the region due to those early winter storms that come some years when the grapes are still hanging on the vines. Within a hour’s drive, you can enjoy several bike trails, a dune climb on the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and just about any water sport you can imagine!

     

    Asheville, North Carolina: Bold Reds in the Blue Ridge

    Many know Asheville as an artsy, fun city that is full of live music and great restaurants, but it also sits next to some high-quality vineyards. The warm, humid climate is perfect for growing big, bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with many of the local vineyards specializing in blends of these Old World varietals. The Yadkin Valley wine trail, located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, also has become a significant grape growing region, including wine made from local muscadine grapes. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park while you are in the area!

     

    Finger Lakes, New York: Blending the Old and New World 

    Within a few hours drive of the spectacular Adirondack Mountains, the Finger Lakes Wine Country covers five counties, three wine trails, and over 3,000 square miles of endless possibilities for fun! Of all these RV wine tours, this one might have the most branches. Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes each have their own wine trails to explore with Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Blaufränkisch being just a few of the common varietals grown in this northerly climate. Local winemakers are experimenting with quite a few other grape varieties grown in both Europe and the country of Georgia. But, the fun does not stop with wine in the region, bring your kayaks to explore the lakes, cycle one of the many bike trails, or hike through some of the jaw dropping gorges nearby, with Watkins Glen gorge being one of the most famous.

  • Before You Decide to Restore a Vintage Camper …

    Before You Decide to Restore a Vintage Camper …

    Vintage campers provide a journey back in time to the golden age of the American road trip.  With sleek lines, mid-century stylings, shining exteriors, and warm wood interiors, these blasts from the past can offer enthusiasts a way to RV in style. Ranging from fully-restored treasures to models long forgotten in some farmer’s field, the price of a vintage camper can vary as widely as its condition. Very wisely, you may wonder: “Do I have the skills and interest find, purchase, and restore a vintage camper?”

    Well, before you make your vintage dream purchase, let’s clarify a few things everyone who wants to restore a vintage camper should know — from technical terms to the tools and expertise required.

     

    Renovating vs. Restoring a Vintage Camper

    Renovation – Blending Vintage with Modern

    It’s important to start here, because there is a real difference between renovation and restoration. Renovation attempts to stay true to the vintage aesthetic while including some modern conveniences. With our remodel of our 1957 Sportcraft 15’  canned ham camper (aka Hamlet), we chose to renovate. That meant keeping the 1950’s era look. We went with bright interior colors, a black and white floor, original baby blue countertops, a wood interior, et cetera.  But we also wanted our camper to be functional for everyday use. So, we updated some lighting, added a 12-volt fan/vent/ We also added some other modern technology, as well as introduced plenty of storage on the inside!

     

     

    Restoration – Returning to the Original Condition

    Alternatively, restoration attempts to bring a camper back to its original condition. Personally, following that approach would have had us scouring old magazines and online advertisements to make sure that we got the right style of gas lanterns for the inside. Or trying to source restored foldable horsehair bench seat cushions for the dinette. It is all possible, of course. You just need to decide how much time and energy you want to spend as you restore a vintage camper.

    Consider your goals and how you intend to use the camper. Do you want to simply show it off at vintage camper rally weekends? Or do you want to travel extensively with it?  Do you want to use it the same way you might a modern camper? Or are you dedicated to bringing an original piece of history back to life?

     

     

    Understanding Throwback Terminology

    Whether restoring or renovating, be prepared to get a lot of questions when you finally roll away from your driveway. Among one of our most frequent; “Hey! Is that camper old, or is it new made to look old?”  

    To be fair, some of the lingo we use for vintage campers sounds synonymous. (And all that is fine conversationally.) But as a buyer, you do want to have firm grasp on throwback terminology — and to verify if the term in a listing was intended that way. So, here’s some quick terminology to sort out some of the accepted definitions for older and older-looking RVs:

    • Retro. New construction designed to look old (for our old friend with the question above)
    • Classic. More than 20 years old
    • Vintage. Made from 1946 to 1969 (the mid-century period before plastic laminate)
    • Antique. 1945 or earlier (lots of different makes and models still kicking around out there … which is awesome)

     

    Identifying the Tools — and Experience — Needed

    Like anything in life, if you can dream it, you can do it! If you have done work on your house or car, you already have about 90 percent what it takes. You may need to hire out for some things, but you can probably DIY most of it.

    However, realistically, if you haven’t done any construction work previously, your learning curve might be steep! So, you have a choice. Either forge ahead and learn. Or hire a restorer. (Or at the very least, make good friends with someone who has the skills that you lack. Remember, a six-pack of beer and pizza still goes a long way towards making friends.)

    • Essential skills. Ingenuity, creativity, patience, and resourcefulness
    • Basic hand tools. Pliers, wrenches, socket set, hammer, screwdrivers, 5-in-1 tool, cordless drill and charger, palm sander, car buffer/polisher, painting tools, caulk gun and scrapers
    • Power tools. Table saw, skill saw, and chop saw

    We did 95 percent of our renovation ourselves then hired out for a few things we didn’t have the time, skills, or tools to do. These included fabricating a new storage cabinet door, replacing the axle, and adding electric brakes.

     

      

    Figuring Out Where to Begin

    While much of this depends on the weather and the season, where to start depends on how much work needs to be done. If it’s a complete teardown, you may need to begin with the outside. But, if it just needs some updating, fixing, and polishing, you may want to start with the inside. (Because it was still winter when we started our renovation, we started on the inside first.)

    Another major consideration is where you are going to do the work. We used our driveway, but wished we’d had a carport or covered area to work under as it would have made doing work in nasty weather a whole lot easier.  

    Finally, it’s important to do an honest assessment of the time you have available. Many newbies bite off a bit more than they can chew, leaving half finished projects sitting in their yard. It took us about six months of nights and weekends over about one and half years. Had we focused solely on the renovation project —and had not been working 60 hours per week and downsizing our home — we probably could have done it in six to eight weeks of very focused work.

     

    Begin Again Is Your Anthem

    No matter where you find your vintage camper or in what condition you find it, whether you’re going to bring it back to life, or add new modern features to an old relic, the best way to restore a vintage camper is to simply … begin. (And begin again!) Stay tuned for additional vintage camper resources and inspiration from us in the weeks to come!

  • Everglades National Park: RV Camping and Travel Guide

    Everglades National Park: RV Camping and Travel Guide

    For those with a wanderlust for RVing into truly special places, consider this: There is only one Everglades ecosystem — on the planet! Located along the south and southwestern coastline of Florida, Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

    This national park preserves a fascinating landscape for RV travelers. Ecologically, it provides important habitat for numerous rare and endangered species. In fact, the Everglades ecosystem has protected the southern Florida coastline from battering hurricanes for millenia. Inside its bounds, it boasts a colorful diversity of flora and fauna. It’s pretty exotic. From Jurassic Park stuff. to fascinating geology and human history, all of this combines makes a visit to this park a delight for visitors of all ages!

    As you might have guessed, this national park is accessible by both land and water. Therefore, it offers unique opportunities for both casual explorers and experienced outdoor adventurers. (As well as limitations where you can drive to.) Whether you are interested in hiking, driving, paddling, cycling, or taking a boat tour, there is something here for everyone.


    One Scenic Drive

    While there is no designated park loop road, the Everglades have a 45-mile drive through the park from the park’s Homestead entrance station to Flamingo. The whole route is a beautiful, endless river of sawgrass dotted with tree-topped hammocks as far as the eye can see. And, of course, it’s also an opportunity to get first sighting of the wonderful wildlife ahead.

     

     

    Must-Visit Trails 

    Canoe and Kayak Trails

    Paddling opportunities are found in two distinct parts of the park. These range from a few hours to several days. It all depends on length and complexity of the trail. But we list this first for a reason. Frankly, the best way to see the park is from a human-powered watercraft! 

    That being said, if you are planning a self-guided overnight trip, you must obtain a wilderness backcountry permit. Campers can make advanced reservations through Recreation.gov. Advanced reservations are available on a rolling basis, three months in advance of the start date. 

    • Gulf Coast Paddling Trails. Accessible from Everglades City on Florida’s west coast.  Private boat ramps are available in Everglades City and Chokoloskee for a fee. Alternate launch sites include the Rod & Gun Club, Outdoor Resorts of Chokoloskee, and Chokoloskee Island Park and Marina. Note: At the time of publication, the public, non-motorized launch on the Gulf Coast Visitor Center grounds was closed for construction.
    • Flamingo Paddling Trails. Ranging from beginner to advanced trails, these can be accessed from launch areas in the Flamingo marina or along the main park road as you approach Flamingo. This is located 38 miles from the park entrance station in Homestead.

    If you don’t have your own equipment or are new to kayaking and canoeing, no worries. You can join a guided, naturalist-led, eco-adventure through the Everglades Institute.

     

     

    Biking Trails

    There are five biking trails throughout the park: Shark Valley Tram Road (aka the Everglades Loop), Snake Bight, Rowdy Bend, Long Pine Key Nature Trail, and the L-67 Canal Road.  E-bikes with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts are permitted on trails and public roads wherever traditional bicycles are allowed. 

     

    Hiking Trails

    A wide array of land trails offer visitors opportunities for both leisurely walks and extended hikes. The Flamingo and Pine Island trails are accessible from the main entrance of the park near Homestead, Florida. The Shark Valley trails are closer to Miami off of U.S. 41 (aka “Alligator Alley”).

    • Anhinga Trail. This self-guided, less-than-one-mile round trip trail offers a lot of bang for its buck! It winds through the sawgrass marsh on an elevated boardwalk. From there, you may see alligators, turtles, anhingas, herons, egrets, and many other birds —especially during the winter. This is one the most popular trails in the park because of its abundance of wildlife. Difficulty: Easy.
    • Mahogany Hammock Trail. This self-guided, half-mile boardwalk trail is a great way to get a taste of the dense, jungle-like hardwood “hammock.” Lush vegetation includes gumbo-limbo trees, air plants, and the largest living mahogany tree in the United States. Difficulty: Easy.
    • Coastal Prairie Trail. This 15-mile round trip hike allows you to step back in time as you walk this old road once used by cotton pickers and fishermen. Open prairies of succulent coastal plants dotted with shady buttonwoods surround you as you make your way west from the Flamingo Campground to Clubhouse Beach. A permit for backcountry camping is required to pitch a tent for the night here. Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult.

     

     

    RV Parks & Campgrounds 

    There are just a couple RV campgrounds within the park boundaries: Lone Pine Key Campground (open November to April, non-electric sites only) and Flamingo Campground (open year-round, with both non-electric and electric sites). But RV camping is also available in the greater Homestead Florida City areas, as well as in or near Everglades City.  There are also a handful of Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome options in the area for self-contained RVers. (Note: At the time of publication, Bayside Campground was closed for the 2025 season.)

    For a truly unique camping experience, try renting a glamping, safari-style tent situated on an elevated platform. They come complete with bed, fan, electricity, and shared bathroom.  Or rent a fully-equipped houseboat and eat, sleep, and tour in style. For an even more adventurous night out, book a guided, overnight kayaking or canoeing trip via the Everglades Institute to experience the Everglades backcountry with a guide. (They’ll show you the good stuff.)

     

    Seasonal Advice 

    Winters are normally dry and mild, with occasional fronts bringing wind and a bit of rain. (Which means that the Everglades National Park is a great outing for Florida snowbirds.) If you are visiting in the “wet season” (from May to November), expect temperatures in the high 90s. With humidity over 90 percent. And a heat index of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Afternoon thunderstorms are an impressive sight and can be expected daily with heavy rainfalls that typically subside quickly. 

    Wet conditions and higher temperatures bring significant changes in the Everglades National Park landscape. As water levels rise, animals disperse making wildlife viewing more challenging. Insects such as mosquitoes and biting flies can be prolific in some areas, making outdoor pursuits uncomfortable without repellent or mosquito netting. 

    So, RVers will need to take care of the basics. Stay hydrated. Wear cool loose-fitting clothing. Bring rain gear and bug shirts, and use sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

    As with many national parks, one visit is often not enough to see and explore all of what Everglades has to offer. And, with Everglades National Park within easy reach of Biscayne National Park, Big Cypress Preserve, and Dry Tortugas National Park, you could easily plan a few weeks in this area and never run out of places to explore!

     

    Insider Tips!

    Guided Tours

    Tram Tours. The two-hour Everglades Tram Tour takes you through the Shark Valley section of Everglades National Park. Naturalists provide insight into the ecosystem and point out some of the hidden aspects of the Everglades that help to make this region a world-renowned wetland. The open air vehicle allows visitors to view wildlife within the sawgrass prairies on either side of the tram.

    AirBoat Tours. These unique boats are the perfect way to get out on the water and for a better look at the wildlife and their habitats that make this region so unique. Cruise among the mangrove forests and sawgrass as naturalists point out the various animals that make the Everglades their home.  

    Boat Tours. Ninety-minute to two-hour tours take you through backcountry canals and creeks, out into Florida Bay, or through the Ten Thousand Islands near the park. Each tour is unique to the habitat in which it travels. As you go, naturalists share their knowledge and passion for the Everglades ecosystem.

     

     

    Popular Activities

    Bird Watching. Everglades National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise. Check out the Homestead, Shark Valley, and the Gulf Coast (near Everglades City) for a wide variety of trails, ponds, and open water which provides crucial habitat for over 300 bird species. We witnessed thousands of egrets alighting in the mangroves at sunset in the Shark Valley Observation Tower along a Ranger-led program that was simply sensational! 

    Ranger-Led Programs. From paddling and birding to trail strolls and slough slogging, experience the park through a Park Ranger’s eyes and learn about the flora and fauna that make this park such an incredible and important resource.  Ranger tours are offered in every major area of the park; see the website calendar for details.

  • Snowbird Comfort Food: 5 Seaside Recipes

    Snowbird Comfort Food: 5 Seaside Recipes

    Traveling in an RV across the regions of America on the interstate can leave a person mystified. Among chain restaurants, there is a distinct lack of diversity of food. Indeed, if you were to drive on Interstate 40 from Wilmington, North Carolina to its western terminus in Barstow, California, there would only be a slight deviation in the food available just off the highway exits. However, if you deviate slightly from your intended route — following the coastline like a good snowbird this winter — you’ll find that the culinary landscape changes dramatically. Suddenly, you have access to locally sourced seafood. Which means that you can fire up some extraordinary seaside recipes — the comfort food of the weary snowbird.

    It’s common knowledge that the best seafood is local. And it’s best consumed where it’s caught, by the seaside. Nothing beats sitting on a rickety picnic table near some boisterous seagulls and diving into a simple but elegantly prepared soft-shell crab sandwich — just outside of the small shack which prepared it only a half mile from the dock it was sold. Pair that with an ice-cold pilsner and some greasy french fries or hush puppies, and you’ll find yourself in the middle of a Jimmy Buffet song! 

    Finding that local seafood dive is part of the fun, but with your own great seaside recipes, you can make this experience happen any time in your RV. (You could even cook the fish you catch.) For us, as a pescetarian and a vegetarian traveling the coastline, we search out places that not only offer great seafood, but also plant-based protein as well.

    These five seaside recipes make both of us happy — and will be great comfort food for any snowbird hugging the coastline

     

    Impossibly Good Jambalaya

    This low-country favorite, hails from Cajun territory. But it is widely claimed across the Gulf Coast. We jazzed up this basic Jambalaya recipe with some vegetables, beans, additional spices, and plant-based sausage. It’s the perfect base for any type of protein you want – Andouille sausage, blackened tofu, shrimp, chicken, catfish, or plant-based meat. (We really like Impossible spicy Italian sausage for this one!)

     

     

    Ingredients

    2 pounds raw peeled shrimp or (4 Impossible sausages*, sliced)
    2 tablespoon olive oil
    1 small red onion, chopped
    1 cup baby bella mushrooms, sliced
    1 red bell pepper (or Green)
    4 garlic cloves, minced
    1/2 cup celery, chopped
    1 cup broccoli, chopped
    1 cup cauliflower, chopped
    1 15-ounce can red beans (or pinto beans), drained
    1 15-ounce can cannellini beans, drained
    1 5-ounce can Hatch green chilies, chopped
    2.5 cups water
    1 teaspoon veggie broth base
    1 15-ounce can tomato sauce, no salt added
    1 15-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
    1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
    1/2 teaspoon fennel seed
    1 teaspoon garlic powder
    1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    2 teaspoons red pepper flakes
    1 cup long grain white rice

     

    *We enjoy several plant-based sausage brands, but love Impossible for this dish. One of the major reasons is for its mouth feel. While plant-based, it is not low in fat. The coconut and vegetable oils give this sausage a satisfying burst of juicy richness. It even chars over a grill similar to traditional Andouille sausage.  If you’re looking to cut down on meats, this is one to give a try!

     

    Instructions

    • Roast sausages, shrimp, or other protein, in a pan or over an open flame. Keep warm, then slice.  
    • In a large Dutch oven over an open fire, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, mushrooms, celery, and garlic, stirring frequently.
    • Add the broccoli and cauliflower to the Dutch oven and sauté until al dente. 
    • Add water, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, green chilies, and all of the spices.
    • Bring to a boil and add rice. Cover and simmer until rice is tender, stirring frequently so nothing sticks to the bottom.
    • Add beans and protein. Cover and simmer five to seven minutes longer or until well heated, stirring frequently.

     

    Good Ole Southern Hush Puppies

    No trip to the coast is complete without consuming a basket of these deliciously toothy balls of fried batter. Serve hot enough to burn your fingertips in a heaping basket right in the middle of the table, alongside any number of dipping sauces, or small pats of butter, or just pop them into your mouth whole. The Kitchn recipe gave us our start, but we find that our own recipe is the one we love the best.

     

     

    Ingredients

    1 1/2 cups fine- or medium-grind cornmeal
    1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
    1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
    1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)
    1/2 small yellow onion
    1 large egg
    1 cup buttermilk
    4 cups peanut or vegetable oil, for deep frying
    Salted butter, for serving

     

    Instructions

    • Prepare a draining plate with several layers of paper towels.
    • Prepare dry ingredients.
    • Prepare wet ingredients and add to the dry.
      Grate onion into the batter, and mix well. Let stand for 15 min. 
    • Add enough peanut oil until you have 1 1/2 inches of oil in the pan, and heat to frying temperature.  
    • With a tablespoon, or small ice-cream scoop. If you want to get fancy, place a golfball-sized lump of batter into the oil. 
    • When golden brown, remove with a slotted spoon or spatula and place on the paper towels to drain excess cooking grease.

     

    Dutch Oven Maryland Crabcake 

    People will argue about their favorite crab cakes, but I’m a strict East Coaster here and will always go with Maryland. The large lumps of crab seasoned to perfection aren’t overpowered by anything, so their sweet fleshy texture and taste can shine through. Just enough crackers or bread crumbs to hold them altogether and you’ve got yourself a real treat! We made our beginning with a recipe from Chef Dennis, but we’ve made a few changes to suit our tastes.

     

     

     

    Ingredients 

    1 pound fresh jumbo lump crab meat* (vegetarian option below)
    1 large egg
    ¼ cup mayonnaise
    1 teaspoon dijon mustard
    1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice plus more for serving
    1½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
    1 teaspoon fresh parsley chopped
    2/3 cup cracker crumbs from around 15 saltines (or panko bread crumbs)

     

    Instructions

    • Whisk the mayonnaise, egg, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice in a large bowl.
    • Add the crab meat to the mixture and gently fold it into the sauce just until moistened.
    • Add the cracker crumbs and parsley to the crab meat mixture and continue to gently mix the ingredients until the cracker crumbs have been incorporated into the crab meat mixture.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
    • Divide the crab cake mixture into six portions, again with the ice cream scoop if you’re fancy. Form the crab cakes into round, slightly flattened cakes and place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Refrigerate the crab cakes until ready to bake or pan fry.
    • Preheat the Dutch Oven in the fire, with coals on the lid, until it is approximately 400 degrees. (See note at bottom of article for temperature approximations.)  The RV oven is also an option, if your rig has one, or pan fry over medium heat.
    • Place parchment paper into the Dutch oven and return the lid.
    • Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the crab cakes reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees, using a stick thermometer.
    • Remove from the oven and serve with tartar sauce, spicy aioli, lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

     

    *Replacing Tofu for Crab Meat

    Many vegetarians love to adapt familiar seaside recipes to accommodate their dietary needs or preferences. And firm tofu is a great stand in. It might be less expensive and satisfy that hometown hankering until you can return to the Chesapeake for the real thing, too.

    • Pat dry a 1 pound block of extra firm tofu with paper towels.
    • Using a box grater on the largest cheese grating side, grate the extra firm tofu.
    • Add the grated tofu into the recipe steps above, substitute veganaise if desired.   
    • You might want to increase the spices slightly to accommodate the tofu.

     

    Mouth-Watering Crabcake Benedict

    Nothing says “fancy brunch” better than an exceptional bennie. And every Sunday brunch restaurant along the seashore will serve some version of this mouth watering delight. So, why not prepare on of the best seaside recipes at your own campsite? (We adapted this recipe from giant eagle and made it our own.)

     

    Ingredients

    1 ounce fresh chives
    2 lemons
    1 pound precooked crab meat (or 1 block marinated baked tofu, grated)
    4 English muffins
    10 eggs
    2 sticks of butter
    3/4 teaspoon Old Bay’s seasoning
    1 teaspoon white vinegar (for poaching)

     

    Instructions

    Prepare the Crab Meat!
    • Slice and chop the chives
    • Juice the lemons
    • Toss the crab meat with half of the lemon juice, a pinch of salt and pepper, and half of the chives. 
    • *Substitute marinated baked tofu for the crab meat: Grate the baked tofu into small pieces, and prepare as you would the crab meat.  

     

    Whip Up Your Hollandaise Sauce
    • Bring a wide pan with a few inches of water to a rolling boil.
    • Whisk remaining lemon juice, egg yolks, and three tablespoons of water in a metal bowl.
    • Melt butter over medium-high heat. 
    • Place the bowl of the lemon/egg mixture over boiling water and then turn off the heat.
    • Very slowly drizzle the butter into lemon mixture, whisking constantly, then season with 1/2 teaspoon of the old bay seasoning. 
    • Set aside.

     

    Poach or Coddle the Eggs
    • Turn the pan of water down to a low boil, add 1 teaspoon white vinegar. 
    • Crack the eggs (four at a time) into the pan of water until the whites are cooked, and the yolks are still runny (three to four) minutes, remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on a towel.
    • Alternatively, we find poaching eggs to be a little fussy, so we use small silicon ramekins as the perfect device for getting perfectly shaped and prepared eggs for a benedict, though the cooking time will be longer between six to eight minutes depending on your preferred yolk style.

     

    Master the Final Assembly
    • Toast the English muffins while cooking the eggs. 
    • Butter the muffins while hot.
    • Top each muffin with a scoop of the crab or tofu mixture
    • Top with one of the finished eggs.
    • Drizzle Hollandaise sauce over the top.
    • Sprinkle with the remaining chives and .
    • Salt and pepper to taste. 

     

    Serve this delightful dish with a fresh green or fruit salad.  Pair with a mimosa or bloody mary cocktails.  

     

    Jack Fish — or Jackfruit — Tacos

    Along the warm waters of the Gulf and East Coast, jack fish are a common sport fish. Light in texture and mildly flavored, these make the perfect taco fish. (One of those ideal seaside recipes for snowbirds!)

    Jackfruit is a tropical fruit that when ripe looks like a cross between a watermelon and a hand-grenade. When mature, it has an incredible sweet taste that inspired Juicy Fruit gum. (A great gum, but not the ideal for … you know … seaside recipes.) While still green and unripe, Jackfruit produces a texture akin to shredded pork and a taste that is ready to absorb whatever you season it with, just like tofu. Jackfruit has become a popular meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans alike and several companies sell prepared shredded jackfruit in the produce section of your grocery store. We prefer unprepared jackfruit in a can from Trader Joe’s. 

     

    Ingredients

    1 medium red onion, chopped
    1 small container of cremini or “baby bella” mushrooms, sliced
    3 or 4 fillets of Jack Fish, or 2 14-ounce cans of Jackfruit
    1/2 cup of Stubbs spicy barbeque sauce (or your favorite)
    1/2 small purple cabbage
    2 ounces spicy ranch dressing
    Sharp cheddar cheese
    Corn tortillas

     

    Instructions

    • Dice red onion and set aside.
    • Slice mushrooms and set aside.
    • Shred purple cabbage and set aside.
    • Shred enough cheese for six to eight tacos.

     

    Prepare the Jack Fish
    • Over medium heat cook the Jack Fish fillets for two to three minutes per side. 
    • Ensure that the fish flakes easily, but is still very moist. 
    • Set aside but keep warm and covered so they don’t dry out.
    • Over medium high heat, sauté 2/3 of the onion for three minutes then add mushrooms.
    • Cook until onions and mushrooms have browned.
    • Add barbeque sauce to the pan, turn down heat and simmer for an additional minute.
    • Shred fish separately, add to the pan mix when loading the tacos.

     

    Or Go with the Jackfruit Option
    • Drain can and pat Jackfruit chunks dry.
    • Shred the chunks using a fork and a knife.
    • Cook the shredded Jackfruit in a pan over medium to high heat with cooking oil.
    • When the fruit has browned, add 2/3 of the chopped onion, after three minutes add the mushrooms.
    • Cook until onions and mushrooms have browned.
    • Add barbeque sauce to the pan, turn down heat and simmer for an additional minute.

     

    Final Prep
    • Heat the tortillas on a dry pan, 30 seconds per side or until very lightly browned, set aside and keep warm.
    • Dress shredded cabbage with ranch dressing to make a spicy slaw for the top of the tacos. 
    • Load up the tacos with your filling choice. Top with cheddar cheese, spicy slaw, the remaining raw, diced red onion.

     

    Hand and Heat Testing: A Tip for Seaside Recipes

    We got this little technique from Weber Grills. Extend your palm over the charcoal at a safe distance. Imagine a soda can is standing on the cooking grate, right over the coals. If your palm was resting on the top of the can, it would be five inches from the cooking grate. That’s where you should measure the heat of charcoal, or cooking coals. Always pull your hand away from the heat before it hurts, and be sure that nothing flammable, such as a sleeve, is dangling from your arm.

    If you need to pull your hand away after two to four seconds, the heat is high. Likewise, if you need to pull your hand away after five to seven seconds, the heat is medium. And if you need to pull your hand away after eight to ten seconds, the heat is low.

    • High (450° to 550°F): 2 to 4 seconds
    • Medium (350° to 450°F): 5 to 7 seconds
    • Low (250° to 350°F): 8 to 10 seconds

     

    We hope you enjoy these seaside recipes and that your future coastal adventures inspire you to try some fantastic culinary feats of your own design!

  • 2025 RV Shows: An Essential Guide for RV Enthusiasts

    2025 RV Shows: An Essential Guide for RV Enthusiasts

    Why spend time and money driving from one local dealership to the next if there is a better — and more fun— way to do it? Every year, there are annual RV shows that are a great way to see a huge variety of different brands, types, and models in one place. (Not to mention all the enticing show deals and entertainment to boot!) Exploring the differences between RV models and brands at a show will help you get a feel for the size, style, and features that best fit your family, budget, and camping style. Styles range from small pull-behind travel trailers to truck campers to fifth wheels. There are glamorous Class A motorhomes and sleek Class Bs — all with different features, bells, whistles, and price tags! So, which 2025 RV shows are the best to attend? Let’s talk about that. 

    Shows are not just about showing off RV inventory. They often offer extras too. Many have live entertainment and free educational seminars offered by professionals and experts in the field. The topics can range from mastering the RV lifestyle to technical topics. All of which are things you should consider when choosing the show that is right for you.

    These 2025 RV shows are some of our favorites to consider each year.


    Which 2025 RV Shows Are Best for You?

    While most RV shows offer a diversity of RV types (from Class A motorhomes to small truck campers), others are dedicated to specific types of RV. Could be travel trailers or fifth wheels. Could be overlanders. Some shows even combine RVs, boats, and other outdoor sports gear. So, if you are seeking a specific type of RV, we would suggest attending an RV-specific show. It will likely offer a better selection from which to choose — a great option for newbies!

    As a rule, when determining which of these 2025 RV shows is right for you, visit the show’s website. There, you’ll see which manufacturer’s and models will be present. If it does not offer what you are seeking, perhaps you’ll want to opt for a bigger show, even if it’s a longer drive (or flight). Or, if there’s a smaller show nearby, you could just make a fun, family weekend trip out of it!

    While the great majority of shows take place in the winter or early spring, there are a couple “not-to-be-missed” shows offered in the summer and autumn sa well. 

    So, where to begin? Here’s our brief selection of 2025 RV shows around the U.S. — whether you’re going this year or plan to travel in the future.

     

    Jan. 15–19: Florida RV SuperShow 

    If you mention that you’ve been to an RV show, people often ask if you’ve been to the “big one in Tampa.” What they’re talking about is the Florida RV SuperShow. This five-day show draws shoppers from all over the nation because it has an enormous selection of RV brands, styles, and sizes. Plan to spend at least three days shopping this show, as they use both the inside and outside space of the state fairgrounds. Since Tampa is located on the Gulf Coast (and January is one of the best times to visit Florida), a weekend of family fun is right around the corner.

    • Location: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, Florida
    • Type of RVs Represented: Wide variety from large Class A motorhomes to small pull-behind travel trailers, as well as vans and truck camper inserts.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!

     

    Jan. 16–19: Grand Rapids Camper, Travel, & RV Show 

    The Grand Rapids Camper, Travel, & RV Show is a fantastic, mid-sized regional show. It has  a wide variety of RV options, as well as a nice selection of RV accessory dealers. The entire show is indoors in a beautiful downtown convention center. Plan at least two days to see all the models, with three days allowing you to enjoy Grand Rapids as well — a fun, mid-sized city with numerous restaurants and entertainment options all within a couple blocks of downtown.

    • Location: DeVos Place, Grand Rapids, Michigan
    • Type of RVs Represented: Wide variety from large Class A motorhomes to small pull-behind travel trailers, as well as some vans and truck campers.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!

     

    Jan. 17–20: New England RV Supershow

    Do you live in the Northeast or seeking a less overwhelming show experience? The New England RV Supershow is a smaller show in the heart of Boston. It’s a great one, and one reason is that it’s one of the less busy 2025 RV shows. This allows you to spend more time inside of each model. Plan to spend one to two days at this show, and use the rest of the weekend to explore Boston with the family!  Note: This show is hosted by RV Supershows, which offers shows from coast to coast. So, if Boston isn’t close by, check out what might be.

    • Location: Boston Convention Center, Boston, Massachusetts
    • Type of RVs Represented: Mostly travel trailers and 5th wheels, with a few motorhomes and truck campers.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!


    Feb. 13–16: Austin RV Expo

    But have you been to Austin? If you have, you already know why it’s such an incredible destination. If you haven’t, Austin is a fun and funky city with music and art at its heart, and an outdoor vibe that’ll help feed any camper’s soul. This mid-sized, four-day show over Valentine’s Day weekend is a unique way to surprise your loved one with a fun weekend. The Austin RV Expo offers a good variety of manufacturers, nice February weather, and some great live bands to boot!

    • Location: Austin Convention Center, Austin, Texas
    • Type of RVs Represented: Mostly travel trailers and fifth wheels, with some motorhomes and truck campers.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!


    Feb. 14-16: Raleigh RV Show

    The Raleigh RV Show is mid-sized, three-day show that draws people from the greater Carolina and Virginia region. This show offers a good selection of RV brands, styles, and sizes as they use both the inside and outside space of the state fairgrounds due to Raleigh’s pleasant weather in February. Two days should be sufficient shopping for this show. If you plan to come in your current RV, check out the onsite campground, available with advanced reservations. Note:  This show is hosted by NCRVDA, which offers shows in major cities across North Carolina throughout the winter.

    • Location: NC State Fairgrounds, Raleigh, North Carolina
    • Type of RVs Represented: Mostly travel trailers and fifth wheels, with some motorhomes and truck campers.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!

     

    Mar. 6–9: Seattle RV Show

    This fantastic, four-day, mid-sized show offers a wide variety of RV brands and models, all within the inside space of the Lumen Center. Downtown Seattle offers a huge selection of numerous restaurants and entertainment options, allowing you to turn a visit to the Seattle RV Show into a fun weekend in the Emerald City for the whole family. Or plan a full week and visit a couple of the nearby national parks during the less busy off-season!

    • Location: Lumen Field Event Center, Seattle, Washington
    • Type of RVs Represented: Wide variety from large Class A motorhomes to small pull-behind travel trailers, as well as vans and truck camper inserts.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!

     

    Sept. 10–14: America’s Largest RV Show

    Also know as the Hershey RV Show, America’s Largest RV Show is an enormous, five-day show in the heart of Pennsylvania. And it is not to be missed! There’s a reason that it draws people from all over the nation. This show has a huge selection of RV brands, styles, and sizes as well as a multitude of RV accessories. And fantastic seminars offered all day, every day. Plan to spend at least three days shopping for this show, as they use both the inside and outside space of the Giant Center, located right next door to the famous Hershey Amusement Park and chocolate factory. That means you can turn a visit to the show into a fun weekend for the whole family.

    • Location: Giant Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
    • Type of RVs Represented: Wide variety from large Class A motorhomes to small pull-behind travel trailers, as well as vans and truck camper inserts.
    • Educational Seminars Offered: Yes!

     

    Expert Tips for Shopping any RV Show

    Before the RV Show

    Unless you’ve traveled in an RV before, how do you know what you will need and use? Like any other major purchase research project, diving in can lead to a black hole of websites, YouTube videos, and blogs into which you disappear and lose yourself entirely. But, you’ll learn a lot and it’s an important first step in the process of understanding RV terminology, features, and technology. So, here’s what we recommend to do before the show — while sidestepping the black hole of the internet.



    1. Educate Yourself about Rig Styles
    • Where do you want to go in your RV? A cross-country road trip, quick weekend getaways around the region, a seasonal lake-side resort, or snowbird migrations between the Florida coast and your New England home? Any size or style RV can accommodate any of these choices, but there are some important considerations that we’ll cover later in this article.
    • Where do you want to stay?  National forest and national park campsites with few amenities, RV parks and resorts with everything, or boondocking on public land for weeks at a time with nothing but what you bring? Keep in mind, most are set-up for maybe one to two nights off-grid in between electrical hook-ups at campgrounds, but with some simple changes, you can add solar to any RV and have electricity whenever and wherever you want to camp.
    • How do you and your family like to camp?  Do you want to feel like you’re in a super comfy tent in the great outdoors, or that you brought your small apartment and all of your toys with you?  

     

    It’s all a matter of your approach, and there are models designed to meet your needs, style, budget, and camping style dreams.  Just because your best friends have a 35-foot fifth wheel toy-hauler that they love, that doesn’t mean it’s the right rig for you. We highly recommend that anyone in the market for an RV try one out before you buy. Renting an RV or two for a short trip can really help determine what your “must-haves” are.

     

    2. Do Some Virtual Work

    For the brands that you like, take a virtual online tour of the models which appeal to you. Also, spend some time reviewing the online show floorplan map. Taking a few hours to do this research ahead of time will allow you to maximize your time and energy at the show itself. Reading unbiased RV reviews also help fine-tune what to look for in a particular model. Also, check to see how long the show is running — most are three to five days long and weekends can be crazy busy. Try to go on a less busy day to avoid crowds.

     

    3. Determine Important Features

    Determine which features are must-haves for everyone who will be using the RV. Create a simple spreadsheet (or download our RV Show Shopping Worksheet) with “Brands & Models” down the left and “Features & Amenities” across the top.Leave room for additional comments for each brand and model too. Bring this worksheet with you on a tablet or phone to help you shop at the show.

     

    4. Set a Budget and Explore Financing

    Set your budget and check with your bank about financing. This will at least give you a comparison for dealer financing offers.  We never advocate for people to go into debt for something they may not use frequently and will depreciate over time. On the other hand, your RV may become your full-time home like it is for us. Be cautious and deliberate about your finances and how a rig will fit into it!

     

    5. Other Things to Consider Before You Buy:
    • Will your neighborhood allow you to park your RV in your driveway or backyard? Some suburban neighborhoods and HOAs can be sticklers about this issue. So, know the rules and regulations before you buy. If you can’t park the rig on your property, check into storage prices and availability in your area before you commit to a specific sized model.
    • How much will insurance and annual registration cost for the rig? Each state handles this differently, and some of the costs may surprise you. Your DMV website should have the details you need.

     

    During the RV Show

    • Choose three to five manufacturers that you identified ahead of time and head straight to their models, then check out others if you have time.
    • Spend some time in each unit to get a sense of space and features, and make thorough notes on your worksheet so you can remember the unique features of each.
    • Imagine your stuff inside, imagine living in it for days, weeks, or even months at a time. 
    • Go into the bathroom, lie on the bed, sit on the couch, stand at the kitchen counter. Is it comfortable?
    • Open and close the doors, cupboards, and hatches multiple times. Are they made well?
    • Check inside and out for manufacturing quality, and read user reviews. High price doesn’t always mean high quality. 
    • Talk to a sales representatives to get a feel for their style and negotiating skills.
    • Take pictures of each rig, with brand name and model clearly visible, and note where they are on the show map so that you can go back for a second visit.

     

    We hope this guide for 2025 RV shows helps you find the perfect RV for you and your family — this year or in the future. Have fun and happy travels!