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Category: RV Lifestyle

  • 8 Tips for Pulling a Travel Trailer

    8 Tips for Pulling a Travel Trailer

    If you’re planning a camping trip or to boondock at some top RV events this year, travel trailers can be a great option for your journey. Towing a travel trailer can seem like a challenging task, especially for beginners. However, with practice and patience, you can soon get the hang of it. Here are RV Trader’s eight tips for pulling a travel trailer.

    1. Purchase the Right Travel Trailer

    If you’re looking to purchase a new or used travel trailer, see what the best options are on the market. Many RVers favor travel trailers because of their affordability in comparison to larger, motorized vehicles. Consider the size and weight of the trailer based on what your towing vehicle can safely handle.

    2. Know Which Hitch You Need

    Determine what type of hitch you need based on your towing vehicle and the size of your travel trailer. 

    • Weight-carrying hitches or conventional hitches are often used for smaller trailers to distribute the weight of the load on the tongue evenly on your towing vehicle’s bumper and frame. These are traditional hitches that extend from the back of most trucks, often with a ball and socket joint for towing.
    • Weight-distributing hitches have a platform that attaches to the rear of the towing vehicle, with the weight of the trailer distributed between the trailer and towing vehicle through spring bars.

    3. Hitch Up the Travel Trailer

    There are different ways to hitch up based on the type of hitch you have for your trailer. No matter what hitch you have, always make sure it’s secure, locked in place, and the cables are connected, working, and not dragging on the road.

    4. Distribute the Trailer’s Weight

    When your travel trailer is hitched to your towing vehicle, inspect the weight distribution and make sure both vehicles are grounded and balanced, without any tipping. When you pack up and get ready to tow, don’t overload either vehicle.

    5. Install Mirror Extensions for Towing

    You should be able to see the back of your trailer using your side mirrors. Installing mirror extensions will give you a wider view when you’re towing. They will keep hazards out of your blindspots and expand your eyesight on the road. Mirror extensions can be easily attached to your mirrors, giving you peace of mind as you travel with your trailer.

    6. Brake Check

    Inspect the brakes on your travel trailer to make sure they’re properly working. Many come with electric controllers that have specific user settings for towing. Read the user instructions for the brakes and make sure they’re on the correct towing setting for your vehicle.

    7. Practice Towing Your Travel Trailer

    Before you take your trip, get in some practice towing your trailer. Find a vacant parking lot and drive around with your vehicle. Practice turning and backing up your RV into a campsite. Test your brakes to ensure they don’t lock up by driving at a slow speed and seeing how long it takes to make a full stop.

    8. Drive Cautiously with Your Trailer

    To stay safe and stress-free as you’re towing, be sure to make preparations and drive cautiously with your travel trailer.

    • Secure your trailer to prevent any swaying and look out for hazards on the road as you travel.
    • Make sure you have overhead clearance and enough space in your lane, especially on smaller roads that may not have a shoulder.
    • Move at a slower speed with your trailer to give yourself more time to brake in case you need to make a sudden stop.
    • With a larger trailer, leave yourself more space for turning.
    • Try not to take steep hills or inclines that can be a burden on your towing vehicle.
    • Avoid traveling in inclement weather.

    Remember to exercise patience and take extra precautions when you’re towing your travel trailer. Plan ahead, keep practicing to get more comfortable, and in no time you’ll be an expert when it comes to towing your RV. And if you’re looking to purchase your next new or used RV, be sure to visit RVTrader.com for the best selection of vehicles!

  • 6 Tips for Turning Your RV into a Romantic Getaway

    6 Tips for Turning Your RV into a Romantic Getaway

    Valentine’s Day is typically filled with boxes of chocolates, bouquets of roses, and candlelit dinners at crowded restaurants, but why not surprise your loved one with something less predictable? Put the traditional Valentine’s Day in the rearview mirror and show your partner you care with a romantic getaway in your RV. Spending some alone time with the person you love is even better when you can do it from anywhere in the country, while still enjoying the comforts of home. Set the mood this Valentine’s Day with RV Trader’s six tips for turning your RV into a romantic getaway.

    1. Choose a Destination

    Whether you’re planning a date at a restaurant or in your fifth wheel, it’s all about location. Think about where you and your loved one should spend your romantic getaway. Do you prefer secluded, wooded campgrounds? What about a waterfront view of a sparkling lake or ocean? There’s nothing like catching a shooting star over the mountain range. However, sunset in a desert canyon can be especially breathtaking.

    Wherever your destination is, the backdrop of a scenic vista can help set the mood for your getaway. Need some suggestions? We previously wrote about the most romantic RV parks to visit this Valentine’s Day.

    2. Decorate the Space

    Your RV’s interior is likely already decorated to feel at home. Switch things up a bit and deck out your camper with some romantic touches. Greet your partner as soon as they walk in with a bouquet of fresh flowers.

    Even in a large Class A RV, your space can feel cramped with too many extra items. Swap out a few accent pieces, such as throw pillows and blankets, for soft, velvety textures. Add photos of the two of you to picture frames, or use images of some of your favorite RV adventures together. Changing up the decor not only gives you a chance to incorporate more intimate elements, but it can also make your camper feel like a new space.

    3. Create Mood Lighting 

    RVs aren’t typically known for having the best lighting, especially once the sun goes down. Instead of your unit’s harsh, bright white lights, consider options that are lower and warmer. Use scarves to cover lighting fixtures if you don’t have a dimmer. Create an amorous environment with flickering LED candles or twinkling holiday lights.

    4. Get the Right Scent

    Of course you want your RV to look the part on Valentine’s Day, but what about its smell? Whether you live in your camper full-time or you’re a weekend warrior, it doesn’t take much for your RV to develop stale or unpleasant smells. Before your getaway, make sure you clean the refrigerator of old food, take out the trash, and empty your wastewater tanks. 

    While candles can fill a room with fragrance, they aren’t the safest option for your rolling home. Instead, try wax warmers or oil diffusers that come in a variety of long-lasting scents without using an open flame. Bright florals are always a popular choice, but sweet fragrances and musky scents can also be very tranquil and romantic.

    5. Create a Playlist

    Whether you’re planning a romantic picnic or you and your loved one are going to cozy up by the campfire, create a playlist to complement your getaway. It could be the first song you danced to together, or selections from an artist/group you both love. Add your favorite love songs to play through your RV’s sound system or a bluetooth speaker. You can even start setting the tone for your getaway by listening to this playlist as you drive to your destination.

    6. Bring the Romance Outdoors

    Your romantic RV experience isn’t just limited to the spaces inside your camper. Being outside is a great way to connect to nature and each other.

    Prepare a romantic dinner for two on the grill instead of inside your RV. Grab a couple of chairs and blankets to eat around the campfire. Dance in the glow of the awning lights. Then, end your night under the glittering stars, which is the ultimate romantic mood lighting.

    This Valentine’s Day, think outside of the box and celebrate in your home away from home. By following these tips, you can transform your family-friendly camper into an adults-only romantic retreat. Check out our previous article on Valentine’s Day date night ideas for RVers for more inspiration.

    Searching for an RV for your romantic getaway? Browse the nationwide selection of new and used RVs on RVTrader.com.

  • Top 5 RV Events to Put on Your 2022 Calendar

    Top 5 RV Events to Put on Your 2022 Calendar

    There’s a whole lot happening in 2022 for the world of RVers. Across the nation and throughout the year, RV shows invite those who are looking to learn more about the newest models on the market. It’s also a great chance to check out the latest RV products, connect with a community of RVers, and enjoy a fun experience at a unique destination. While the Florida RV Supershow just wrapped up, there are plenty more noteworthy RV shows to look forward to this year. Here are RV Trader’s top five RV events to put on your 2022 calendar.

    1. Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show

    When: January 22–30
    Where: Quartzsite, Arizona
    Admission Cost: Free

    Start of the year with one of the world’s largest RV events known as “The Big Tent Show.” This annual event has been held for over 40 years and coincides with the Quartzsite Rock and Gem Show. It’s also an ideal destination for an RV roadtrip during the winter, taking you to the sunny and warm Arizona desert. Under the big tent you’ll find RVs on display, exhibitor products, outdoor gear for RVers, tourism information, and much more. RVers should keep in mind that while at the event there is no RV parking, nearby there’s space to boondock and campgrounds with hookups.

    2. Chicago RV & Camping Show

    When: February 17–20
    Where: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, Illinois
    Admission Cost: Currently discounted from $7–$12

    Bundle up and head to Chicagoland for one of the year’s most anticipated RV events! Situated near the Windy City, the Chicago RV & Camping Show is known to be one of the most enormous RV shows in the midwest. If you’re an avid RV camper or outdoor enthusiast, this is definitely an event to check out. You can expect up to 20 RV dealers and a display of 400 RVs. You can shop, see the latest models on the market, compare offers and deals, and check out outdoors/camping vendors. It’s also an opportunity to get your camping supplies ahead of the summer travel season.

    3. Seattle RV Show

    When: February 17–20
    Where: Lumen Field Event Center, Seattle, Washington
    Admission Cost: Adults $15. Seniors 62 and older $13. Free for children 17 and under with an adult.

    Known as the biggest RV show in the Pacific Northwest, the Seattle RV Show is yet another wintertime event to add to your calendar. Twenty dealers will bring hundreds of new and used RVs for display, along with exhibitors with products including gear and merch. As an attendee, you can partake in giveaways, sip on some beer and wine, and learn more about products and experiences devoted to the RV lifestyle. It’s also an informative educational event with seminars for beginners and the experienced covering topics from camping and boondocking, traveling, trailer towing, and more.

    4. Midwest RV Supershow

    When: August 11–14
    Where: RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum, Elkhart, Indiana
    Admission Cost: Ages 16 and up $10. Free for children 15 and under with an adult.

    Definitely one of the most unique RV events to experience, the Midwest RV Supershow gives you a chance to shop from the newest models on the market as well as see antique RVs from decades past in the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum. Held in a 22,000 square-foot pavilion, you’ll see around 300 RVs on display with special sale prices at the show for new 2022 models. Shop from RVs, travel trailers, motorhomes, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and more. Your admission includes the Super Show and a visit to the RV/MH Hall of Fame.

    5. Hershey PRVCA Show

    When: September 14–18
    Where: Giant Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
    Admission Cost: Tickets go on sale in June. Age 13 and over $7–$19. Children 12 and under are free. Three-day event pass $25–$30. Free parking.

    What began more than 50 years ago has turned into one of the most famous RV events in the world. The Hershey PRVCA Show is considered a bucket list must for RVers to experience. Known to have enough RVs to fill over 30 football fields, you can see 1,200 RVs on display, shop from the latest models, and learn more about these vehicles at America’s largest RV show. Vendors will offer RV and camping accessories, services, upgrades for vehicles, resources for vacations, and much more. There will be onsite entertainment, food and beverages, a silent auction, and hourly seminars covering a number of RV-related topics.

    Start making your 2022 plans by adding these exciting RV events to your calendar. It’s an excellent chance to see the newest vehicles on the market, gather with a community, learn more at a seminar, and have a blast. Be sure to check out the nation’s largest selection of new and used RVs online at RVTrader.com!

  • 5 Things to Know About RVing with an Aquarium

    5 Things to Know About RVing with an Aquarium

    RVing with an aquarium may seem like a good idea, given that fish are already contained in an aquarium, unlike more active pets like cats or dogs. However, even the hardy fish recommended for beginners can struggle in the constantly changing environment of the road. This does not mean that keeping fish in an RV is impossible, though. It can be done, if a few factors are carefully considered and managed. Here are five things to know about RVing with an aquarium.

    1. Road vibrations can be deadly to fish

    Road vibrations are something humans rarely notice unless driving on a particularly bumpy or poorly maintained stretch of road, but the situation for fish is different. All those vibrations are multiplied as they travel through the water in a fish tank. That makes them much more noticeable for the fish than they are for you. Unless you can very securely pad your RV against vibration and anchor your fish tank, the stress from all of this vibration could quite literally kill your fish.

    2. RVs are subject to temperature fluctuations

    Typically, RVs are not as well-insulated as regular houses, and big temperature variations are not great for aquarium fish. Many fish, especially tropical ones, can only tolerate a narrow range of temperatures before they overheat or freeze to death. Tanks can (and should) be climate controlled, but even that can only do so much against a climate that might present 90-degree days or subzero temperatures, depending on when and where you’re traveling in your RV. However, if you have the right kind of power available, this problem can be circumvented by careful monitoring and the near-constant use of a water heater.

    3. An RV’s motion can cause a lot of water movement

    Some fish, especially river dwellers, are adapted to moving water, but the steady flow of a river is not the kind of water motion a trip in an RV will generate. Instead, the stopping, starting, and turning of a road trip will disorient and, for lack of a better word, “slosh” your fish around in their tank in a way that will be highly stressful, if not immediately injurious. Here again, sturdy anchorage and good shocks will help reduce this movement. However, unless you plan on parking your RV in a trailer park and staying put, this is going to be a constant concern. Make sure to pick fish that can thrive with a lid on their tank.

    4. Some fish tolerate travel better than others

    Tropical saltwater fish, which are famously delicate, would obviously be a terrible choice for an RVing aquarist, but even some hardier freshwater fish will have a hard time with all of these stressors. Fish like the Zebra Danio are more able to withstand temperature fluctuations, while guppies and gourami fish are renowned for their hardiness and cichlids are regarded for their adaptability. These robust qualities likely make them better choices for RV living than some of their more delicate cousins.

    5. A tank accident in an RV is a big deal

    A shattered fish tank, especially a large one, can be upsetting or stressful in a traditional home. In a particularly bad accident, it might damage electronics, a rug, or even the flooring. In an RV, however, even a much smaller accident can have even worse consequences, due to the simple fact that the floor of an RV is full of important, non-water-resistant things like electrical wiring. Plus, the materials an RV floor is made from are even more susceptible to rot, warp, and water damage than traditional hardwood or carpeted house floors. If aquarium water gets inside your RV walls, it can also cause mold and mildew to grow there, which will weaken the integrity of the walls and also can become a health hazard if not quickly dealt with.

    Final Thoughts

    All of this may sound scary, but it does not mean that keeping an aquarium in an RV is impossible. It is good to be wary, though, because prospective RV fish owners should take a close look at all of the risks and rewards of keeping an aquarium with them on their adventures. This will hopefully encourage RVers to plan carefully and take all the necessary precautions to make sure their fish stay happy and healthy and enjoy a long life on the open road. 

     

     

     

    David Thomas is the Founder of Everything Fishkeeping, your number one resource for fishkeeping, aquascaping, and aquariums.

  • What to Know About Overnight Parking at Cracker Barrel

    What to Know About Overnight Parking at Cracker Barrel

    If you’ve never eaten at a Cracker Barrel before, you’re really missing out! The restaurant is famous for their delicious home-cooking style of food, country farmhouse atmosphere, and novelty gift shops. However, many non-RVers don’t know that Cracker Barrel is also well-known in the camping world for being friendly to overnight RV parking.

    With many of their restaurants designating spots specifically for RVs, parking at a Cracker Barrel can be an unconventional but helpful solution for those who need somewhere to park overnight while traveling. To help you know when it’s allowed and what to expect, FMCA, in partnership with RV Trader, is breaking down what to know beforehand, plus tips for parking overnight at a Cracker Barrel.

    What to Know Before Parking Overnight

    Do they allow RV parking?

    It’s important to note that not every Cracker Barrel restaurant allows overnight RV parking. You always want to get permission from the restaurant manager before staying overnight. If you do get permission, you’ll likely need to ask these questions as well: 

    • Can I run a generator?
    • Can I extend my awning and slide-outs??
    • Can I put down my leveling jacks?

    What can I expect?

    Cracker Barrel generally designates an area of their parking lot for RV and bus parking so that it does not interfere with general customer parking. The spots are around 40-foot long and do not have any hookups, so plan your power and water needs accordingly. 

    You can expect the restaurant to be busy during mealtimes, especially during the weekends. Most stores are open at 6am and will close at 10pm or 11pm. It is not recommended to arrive after-hours unless you have already received permission.

    FMCA’s Tips to Ensure a Positive Experience

    Make sure it is allowed

    This is worth repeating: you need to get permission from the restaurant manager to park overnight, even if you’ve heard from fellow RVer’s that it is allowed. While most Cracker Barrels allow overnight parking, there are some that do not. You can either call the restaurant ahead of time or go inside and ask when you arrive. Make sure that the person who gives you permission is a manager who has the authority to make the decision.

    Be respectful of your surroundings

    Remember that you are staying in a business’s parking lot, not a campground. That means keeping your noise to a minimum and not disturbing customers or disrupting employees from their normal business. Do not set up lawn chairs and grill your dinner in front of your RV. 

    Show your appreciation

    Make sure to be very polite and thank the restaurant for letting you stay overnight. In the morning before you hit the road, fill up on breakfast or at least buy something from their gift shop. It is a good gesture to show you are thankful for the service they provided you. 

    Only stay for one night

    Don’t get greedy and take advantage of Cracker Barrel’s generosity. Stay for only one night before you continue on with your RV adventure. There might even be some other travelers who will need your parking space the next night, so don’t hang out all day.

    Leave the parking lot in better shape than when you arrived

    Clean up after your pets and pick up any trash you may create. Even if you see some trash that isn’t yours, help them keep their parking lots looking nice by taking that to the nearest garbage can or dumpster as well. 

    Stay safe at all times

    If you feel like the area is not safe or it makes you feel uneasy at all, do not stay there! There are plenty of other options for free overnight RV parking, so don’t risk it. There will be no security on site, and no employees between the end of the evening shift and the beginning of the morning shift the next day. 

    Final Thoughts

    When you think about it, it’s pretty amazing that there is a business willing to let RVers park overnight on their travels without asking for any payment in return. It’s a very generous service provided by Cracker Barrel, and you certainly don’t want to be the one to mess it up. Always get permission, respect the business and its property, employees, and customers, and leave your parking lot spotless. And, of course, don’t forget to actually go into the restaurant to eat some of that delicious food and shop in their unique gift shop.

     

     

    FMCA educates, equips, and empowers RV owners in their journey to creating, experiencing, and benefiting from the outdoor lifestyle they dream of and deserve. FMCA is your ally to the outdoor lifestyle you love and enjoy.

  • 6 Things to Know about Campground Memberships

    6 Things to Know about Campground Memberships

    RVing can be an affordable way to travel and explore the country, but campground fees can quickly add up. What if there was a way to save on those? Campground memberships, a favorite of camping aficionados, offer a way to save on campsite costs. Before you break out your wallet, check out RV Trader’s list of six things to know about campground memberships.

    1. Membership Cost

    The first step when researching a campground membership is determining your budget. Membership fees are usually charged monthly or annually, with higher memberships typically offering more campsite locations or exclusive access. As you look at the cost of membership, keep in mind the additional benefits and restrictions associated with your club, which we’ll discuss more below.

    2. Types of Memberships

    There are a few types of campground memberships that range in price and offerings.

    Reciprocal Camping Membership

    Reciprocal camping memberships require you to first be a member of one of the affiliated resorts or campgrounds. Because of this, fees are typically lower. Think of it as a supplemental membership. Joining a reciprocal membership program, such as Resort Parks International, can enhance your membership benefits at one of the affiliated sites. 

    Campground System Membership

    Campground system memberships offer a network of RV resorts and campgrounds under one umbrella. Unlike reciprocal camping memberships, you don’t need an additional membership for access to one of the campsites in the network. These memberships, such as Thousand Trails, can be more expensive since the cost of the campsite is covered in your membership fee.

    Discounted Camping Club

    Similar to campground system memberships, discounted camping clubs feature a network of campsites and RV parks. Instead of the membership fee covering your stay, you’ll receive a discounted rate to one of the campsites. Memberships like Passport America grant members 50% off camping fees at participating campgrounds.

    Rewards Membership

    Rewards memberships are offered by an individual campground brand. For example, Club Yogi Rewards is free and gives campers who stay at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resorts points to redeem there. Others, like KOA Rewards, charge a membership fee but give you on-site discounts and other perks.

    3. Campground Locations

    One of the best parts of traveling by RV is the ability to go anywhere. A membership can grant you access to campgrounds across the country. Most clubs and memberships have campground directories and online maps that you can browse to see all the locations you can visit. Tow your fifth wheel to one of the hundreds of participating campsites, depending on which membership you choose.

    4. Membership Benefits

    The biggest draw to a campground membership is receiving a lower rate or exclusive access to one of the participating campsites, which varies by membership. But you can also get additional perks. Many memberships include benefits such as: discounts on retail stores and nearby attractions, loyalty programs, access to social groups, and more.

    5. Membership Restrictions

    Campground memberships are pretty straightforward, but it’s always best to read and understand the fine print. Some memberships have restrictions on how often you can visit the campsites, length of stay, booking windows, and more. It’s also important to pay attention to how benefits, if any, are applied and cancellation fees.

    6. Popular Campground Memberships

    Each campground membership has something for every type of camper, from weekend warriors to full-time RVers. Here are some of the most popular campground memberships to choose from:

    • Boondockers Welcome
    • Escapees RV Club
    • Good Sam club
    • KOA Rewards
    • Passport America (click the link and get three months for free with a referral from RV Trader)
    • Thousand Trails

    Campground memberships are an investment that can help you save on your RV adventures. Now that you know more about campground memberships, you can start your research and determine which is best for you and your RV lifestyle.

    If you’re looking for a new or used RV for your next camping adventure, browse the nationwide for-sale and for-rent units available on RVTrader.com.

  • RV Trader Travel Spotlight: Badlands National Park

    RV Trader Travel Spotlight: Badlands National Park

    Getting out on the road and exploring national parks is all part of the wonderful experience of being an RV owner. One of the most popular national parks, Badlands in South Dakota, is celebrated for its natural wonders, wildlife, and native history. With the country’s largest undisturbed mixed-grass prairie, eroded buttes and stunning pinnacles, a diversity of wildlife, fossils dating back millions of years, and activities that connect you with nature, Badlands has something for everyone. RV Trader shares everything you need to know about all 244,000 acres of Badlands National Park in this Travel Spotlight.

    Badlands National Park History

    Contrary to its name, Badlands is a wondrous place to visit with an enticing history that traces back millions of years with a distinctive collection of fossils, native people, and finally designation as a national park. Fossils of saber-tooth cat, ancient camels, rhinoceros, crocodiles, and horses, among other animals, date back 34 to 37 million years within the national park. Some of these were discovered by the native Lakota people, who named this area mako sica, or “bad lands.” French fur trappers adopted the name while traversing the area since it was difficult to navigate with rugged canyons and buttes; clay terrain that was debilitating in rainy conditions; cold winters, hot summers; and lack of reliable water sources.

    In 1929, President Calvin Coolidge signed a law establishing Badlands as a national monument and a proclamation for further development within the boundaries of Badlands. The Monument was established to preserve the area’s natural scenery and educational resources, including geological and zoological observation. Another decade later, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the enacted proclamation and the monument was renamed Badlands National Park in 1978.

    Things to Do in Badlands

    To get the full Badlands experience, go exploring in this incredible place full of crooked peaks and eroded rocks. With breathtaking buttes and canyons, a sprawling prairie, hiking, a fossil exhibit, and wildlife watching, Badlands throws a lot at you. Make the most of what this national park has to offer and go have an adventure.

    Panorama Point

    This popular point of interest is off Badlands Loop Road, a two-lane paved road which takes you right through the park and passes some of the best features found in the area. From Panorama Point you’ll have an amazing view of where the prairie land, rocky ridges, and the White River Valley converge. You can peer out for miles at big skies and a maze of geological formations that are like nowhere else on earth.

    Yellow Mounds Overlook

    Another stop off the Badlands Loop, layers of rock burst out in bright yellow on this sloping mound. The yellow rock is a vestige of an inland sea that covered the Great Plains, eroding and surviving now millions of years later. The overlook, along with other destinations off the loop, is a spectacular sight at sunset.

    Yellow Mounds Overlook

    Hiking

    There are a number of trails in Badlands that take you up close to the park’s extraordinary natural features. These paths are fit for hikers of different experience levels, as some are easy and some are challenging. Notch Trail takes you through a canyon and climbing a log ladder to a cliff’s edge. Saddle Pass takes you hiking up steep rocks for a view of White River Valley. Door Trail weaves between jagged pinnacles piercing the sky.

    Fossil Preparation Lab

    Open daily during the summer, see paleontologists work up close on fossil preparation that’s unique to Badlands. At this educational and research laboratory, you’ll see scientists identify species based on fossil characteristics, prepare and catalogue fossils, and then display them. This visitor experience gives you a better understanding of the landscape and inhabitants of Badlands and how the land has changed over millions of years.

    Wildlife Watching

    With its distinctive landscape, Badlands has a range of diverse wildlife you can see while driving and on trails when you venture out in the park. It’s important to remember to keep a safe distance and never feed, touch, or otherwise disturb animals in their natural habitat. Among these fascinating creatures calling Badlands home are bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, deer, coyotes, golden eagles, cliff swallows, and black-footed ferrets, which were once thought to be extinct.

    Bighorn Sheep

    Best Time to Visit Badlands

    Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Badlands National Park. In April and May or September and October, there are usually less crowds, which makes it easier for RVers to get around the park on the Badlands Loop Road. Summer and winter can present challenges for visitors with harsh weather conditions. The summer will also see more visitors, hot temperatures, and dangerous thunderstorms, so if you do visit during these months you may want to plan on sightseeing early or late in the day. While the South Dakota winter can be unforgiving for spending time outdoors, the landscapes can provide a different and still remarkable look at the terrain covered in snow.

    In the spring when temperatures warm up, you can spot bison shedding their winter coats, green grass, and flowers in full bloom. In the fall, you can expect the weather to be warm during the day and cool at night. Clear skies in the evening let you stargaze right at your RV campsite.

    Where to Camp and Park Your RV at Badlands

    For RVers, there are a couple of options for camping in Badlands. 

    • Cedar Pass Campground is the larger campsite for RV accommodations, located out in the open grass surrounded by peaks. Here you’ll find shaded picnic tables, showers and bathrooms, water, and some hookups with electricity. 
    • Sage Creek is a smaller campground in the park but with expansive views of the rolling rock formations. For RVs, there are less amenities, but bathrooms and picnic tables can be found here. Recreational vehicles greater than 18 feet in length are not allowed at Sage Creek. 

    Outside of the park, RVers have more sites to choose from. White River KOA Campground is 6 miles from the park and features more hookups and amenities for RVers. Minute Man RV Park and Lodging is 3 miles from the park with full RV hookups and amenities. 

    Cedar Pass Campground

    What’s Near Badlands

    If you’re taking a roadtrip in your RV to Badlands, there are more South Dakota sights you’ll want to be sure to check out. 

    • Black Hills National Forest spans over 1.25 million acres across two states, with ponderosa pines, prairies, and more rugged ranges. 
    • The Crazy Horse Memorial in Black Hills is an unfinished sculpture carved from rock that dates back to the ’40s. While the head has been completed, the rest of the sculpture is still a work in progress. The memorial is a dedication to the native tribes of the region and reaches a height of 563 feet. 
    • Mount Rushmore is one of the nation’s most recognized and visited monuments with the faces of the presidents George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt carved in the Black Hills granite. Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore now receives more than 2 million annual visitors.

    Rambling rock formations, fossils dating back millions of years, and enchanting wildlife—Badlands is a gem to be discovered. With a better idea of what this national park has to offer, start planning your next RV adventure.

    Want to explore other great RV destinations? Check out these RV Trader Travel Spotlights:

    And if you’re ready to find your next RV for exploring new destinations, shop our nationwide marketplace for new and used RVs on RVTrader.com.

  • FMCA: 6 Popular Campgrounds for Winter RVing

    FMCA: 6 Popular Campgrounds for Winter RVing

    Depending on your preference, RVing in cold weather is either exhilarating or the worst thing in the world. So, it’s no surprise that during the winter months many RV owners would rather seek out states with warmer weather as opposed to winterizing their RVs and staying put to hibernate.

    In a recent Facebook poll, FMCA asked RV owners about their favorite place to camp in the winter. Overwhelming (and not surprisingly to those at FMCA headquarters in chilly Cincinnati), warmer weather states led the poll by a landslide. Arizona topped the list, followed by Florida, Texas, California, Georgia, and Nevada.

    In light of these results, FMCA is highlighting two of their commercial campground members in each of the three leading states: Arizona, Florida, and Texas. Here are six of the top campgrounds for winter RVing.

    *Due to COVID, campgrounds may have limited winter availability in 2021/22. Please check a park’s website for the most up-to-date information.

    Arizona: 

    Grand Canyon/Williams KOA C11910

    Centrally located to downtown Williams and the Grand Canyon, this four-star RV park is open year-round and just a few blocks from Route 66. You will conveniently find that this is a pet-friendly campground, and it is equipped with 30- and 50-amp electric options; sewer and water hookups; free cable TV; Wi-Fi; an indoor swimming pool; laundry facilities; showers; and a convenience store.

    El Pais Motel & Campground C14129

    This unique ‘50s, retro-themed boutique motel and campground invites you to take a stylish step back in time. This rare gem of a campground also offers vintage motel rooms and tiny homes along with RV sites, poolside movies, and an eclectic clubhouse. Located in Tucson, the campground offers sewer, water, and electric hookups; a dump station; Wi-Fi, and showers. 

    Florida: 

    Bluewater Key RV Park C4828

    This luxury RV resort sits in the beautiful Florida Keys just off Highway 1 and offers large private lots averaging 35 feet wide and 80 feet deep. All sites have full hookups with 30- and 50-amp services, high-speed Wi-Fi and HD cable, and a tiki hut. There is also a community boat launch, private docks, a clubhouse, laundry facilities, a dog park, and so much more!

    Carrabelle Beach RV Resort C12391

    Just steps from the beautiful Carrabelle beach, the Carrabelle Beach RV Resort has an amazing oceanfront view. The facility offers a variety of lodging options, such as ocean-view beach lofts; resort cottages; cozy cabins; stilted bungalows; and, of course, RV sites. All RV sites include full hookups, 30-amp and 50-amp electric, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and picnic tables. You can also utilize the resort’s clubhouse, with a screened-in porch, a fenced dog run, a swimming pool, laundry facilities, and a fish-cleaning station.

    Texas: 

    Maverick Ranch RV Park C9341

    This 4.5-star RV ranch and golf resort near Big Bend National Park is said to be like a diamond in the rough, surrounded by the hills of Quiet Canyon and Lajitas Mesa. Here, you can enjoy horseback riding trails, zip lining, shooting range activities, an Agave Spa day, or play a round of golf at Black Jack’s Crossing Golf Club. The RV park has 100 campsites, 60 of which are pull-through sites. Amenities include full hookups, sewer, water, 30-amp and 50-amp electric, laundry facilities, showers, and a clubhouse. The campground also is pet friendly. 

    Blazing Star Luxury RV Resort C9594

    Gain access to premiere full-hookup, pull-through RV sites with 30-amp and 50-amp electric. Features include cable TV; rest rooms and showers; laundry facilities; an on-site store; a swimming pool; a game room; and resort activities and community events. Located close to the beautiful San Antonio River Walk where you can explore restaurants, museums, and beautiful scenery.  

    Although most RVers select warm weather states for RVing during the winter months, several respondents mentioned that their RV hibernates during the winter months. If you would like more information on winterizing your RV, there’s lots of helpful information on both the FMCAdventure blog and the RV Trader blog. You can also join the FMCA Facebook group here, where the community answers questions, makes suggestions, and shares their RV news and stories.

     

     

    FMCA educates, equips, and empowers RV owners in their journey to creating, experiencing, and benefiting from the outdoor lifestyle they dream of and deserve. FMCA is your ally to the outdoor lifestyle you love and enjoy.

  • RV Trader’s Holiday Gift Guide for RVers

    RV Trader’s Holiday Gift Guide for RVers

    The holidays are here! Spread some cheer this season by finding the perfect gift for the RVer in your life. With so many wishlists for family and friends, holiday shopping can be a lot to take on. Luckily, RV Trader is making buying presents easier with a holiday gift guide of our favorite things to wrap up and deliver to RVers this holiday season. Check out the image below, then keep scrolling for more details about each gift idea!

     

     

    At Home and Camping

    RV Sign: A personalized wooden sign for your favorite RVer can be shown off at their campsite and can be customized with engravings of a family name, an RV name, or even a name for the campsite. If you know someone RVing with a pet, you could also add a dog bone to this sign so their furry friend also feels at home!

    Push Pin Map: Get this map of the United States for a friend or family member so they can put it up in their RV and add pins to all the destinations they’ve gone to or want to check out in the new year. They can add pins to national parks or RV campgrounds.

     

    Organization and Innovation

    Pocket Organizer: Over the door or mounted to the wall, a pocket organizer really helps the RVer in your life make the most of their space in an RV. They can use it for kitchenware, gadgets, and RV accessories.

    Keyless Entry Door Handle with Keypad: This gift makes it easy for your favorite RVers to go in and out of their RV. Plus, the gift provides a little extra security for their vehicle. This device is easy to install and comes with a programmable code.

     

     

    Tech and Gadgets

    Camping Lantern and Phone Charger: This creative camping lantern and phone charger brightens up a camping space while recharging batteries. It’s inflatable, easy to pack, and uses outdoor sunlight to power its battery.

    Rechargeable Pocket Heater: This pocket-sized gadget will keep your friend or family member’s hands warm in some of the coldest conditions this winter. It comes with three different heat settings, has a rechargeable battery, and can be used as a backup charger for  mobile devices.

     

    Outdoors

    Campsite Storage Strap: This can be a really useful gift for the RVers in your life when they’re in need of a little extra storage space. They can set up this storage strap along their RV or between trees at a campground to dry off clothes and cookware. 

    Inflatable Lounger: Give this lounger with a headrest to a family member or friend so they can lounge out by their RV or the campfire. Easy to set up, all they have to do is add some air, kick back, and relax.

     

    Cooking and Grilling

    Fondue Pot: Sure, s’mores are a campground classic, but a fondue pot for your favorite RVer is a glamorous improvement to cooking out. This stainless steel electric pot is great for chocolate, caramel, cheese, and sauces, making RV get-togethers even more special.

    Cookout Basket: If you know someone that is all about cooking and eating outside when they camp with their RV, a cookout basket is a great gift idea. This makes it simple to throw some fish, barbecue, or even veggies over a fire or grill. 

     

    Drinkware

    Cocktail Kit: Especially for those RV glampers out there, a cocktail kit mixes things up in a fun way. This water-resistant travel bar comes with pockets to store bottles, shakers, and barware.

    Camping Coffee Pot and Percolator: A great gift for coffee lovers, this lets them quickly brew up a batch of coffee over their RV stove or a campfire. All they have to do is add water, coffee, heat it up, and it’s ready to go.

     

    Kitchen

    RV Dinner Plates: It’s nice to cozy up for a warm meal in an RV with family or friends. RV-themed plates are a pleasant accent for the RV lifestyle, and they’re also shatter proof and dishwasher-friendly.

    RV Bottle Opener: Maybe it’s a little kitsch, but we still think it’s a cool gift. Help the RVer in your life crack open their favorite drinks, keeping it readily available on their fridge with its magnet attachment.

     

     

    Subscriptions and Memberships

    America the Beautiful Passes: This is a ticket to more than 2,000 recreation sites across the country! With this pass, your favorite RVer can explore national parks and national wildlife refuges, plus it covers day-use fees when visiting national forests and grasslands.

    FMCA Membership: This membership is an essential for dedicated RVers! A Family Motor Coach Association membership provides unique discounts for RV purchases and services, education and insight for RVing, and provides connections with a community of RVers.

     

    Novelty

    Customized RV Ornament: This is a nice little gift for your RVing friend or family member to put up on a Christmas tree. Choose a style of RV and then have their name engraved on this wooden ornament.

    RV Checklist: Prepping and taking care of an RV for a trip doesn’t have to be a chore for the RVer in your life. This RV Checklist can be personalized with tasks and reminders for what needs to be taken care of before they hit the road.

     

    Pet

    Collapsible Bowls: A gift for pet owners, they can use these convenient collapsible bowls for their hungry and thirsty pets. They can simply clip them to a bag or gear when they’re out with a pet on a hiking trail.

    Travel Bed: Pets should be able to relax when camping out. These beds are water resistant so they can be used outdoors, and they’re easy to clean when pets make a big mess.

     

    Kids

    Little Explorers on Board: You’ve seen “Baby On Board” stickers on cars, right? Well this one made for an RV family! Your favorite RVer can place this vinyl decal for “Little Explorers on Board” on their vehicle and go have an RV adventure.

    Camping Activity Journal: Kids can fill the pages of this interactive journal with drawings and fun memories from their camping trips. This illustrative journal includes camping bingo, charades, scavenger hunts, drawings, and a word search.

     

    RV

    Of course the best gift of all this holiday season is a new RV! Surprise someone special with their next vehicle. Shop from a selection of different makes and models both new and used on RVTrader.com!

     

    Happy holidays from RV Trader! We hope the new year brings you more exciting RV adventures.

     

  • 10 Tips for Backing Into a Campsite

    10 Tips for Backing Into a Campsite

    When you’ve finally arrived at the RV park, backing in your vehicle can be tricky, especially if you’re learning for the first time. While some campsites have simple pull-throughs for RVs, many campgrounds and parks will require you to back in. Learning how to back in smoothly is part of being an RV owner, especially if you want to avoid damaging your vehicle! Luckily, with a little help and some practice, you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Here are 10 tips from RV Trader for backing into a campsite.

    1. Take a Look at Your Campsite

    Before you back in, take a close look at your campsite and check for any possible hazards or obstacles you may encounter. Check for any ditches, potholes, slopes, or mounds. You want your RV to be on level ground and close enough to your hookups, which will determine exactly where you want to park your RV.

    2. Have Someone Spot You

    Whether it’s a family member, friend, fellow camper, or park ranger, have someone stand near where you want to back in, but where you can still see and/or hear them. Once in place, they can carefully direct you as you back in and help keep you away from any obstacles.

    3. Use as Much Space as You Can

    As you back in, don’t be afraid to let your towing vehicle utilize all of the space available. Position the driver’s side of your towing vehicle near the edge of your camping space, giving you more area to make a cut with the wheel as you reverse. When you back in, keep the area where you want to park your RV within sight of the driver’s side so you can see as you reverse.

    4. Let Your Vehicle Guide You

    Keep your windows down so you can communicate with your spotter. Look at your mirrors to guide you as you back in so you can focus on steering and getting the RV in a straight line. Keep your RV’s tires in sight in your mirror.

    5. Use the Bottom of the Steering Wheel

    Keep your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel as you direct your RV back into the campsite. This will help you easily control, pivot, and turn your vehicle. Turn the wheel when your spotter directs you.

    6. Cut the Steering Wheel

    When you’re ready, cut the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the campsite and reverse slowly while you listen to your spotter. As your towing vehicle swings, the RV will move into the direction of your campsite.

    7. Straighten Up with an S-Turn

    When your RV is at your campsite, turn the wheel towards your site in the direction of the RV and straighten your vehicles; this motion is known as the “S-Turn.” Be cautious and slow; you may need to try this several times to line up and get your RV exactly where you want it to be.

    8. Check the Location

    Get out and see if your RV is in the right spot. Ensure the space surrounding it is clear so your slides can fold out, your cords and water hoses will reach plug-ins, and you can set up camp comfortably by your RV.

    9. Ensure Your RV is Level and Stable

    Your RV might have auto-leveling that will adjust your hydraulics. If not, you can use a bubble level, leveling blocks, and/or leveling jacks. Use wheel chocks to stabilize your trailer if it doesn’t have parking brakes. If you don’t have automatic stabilizing features, you can use a stabilizer jack that extends from the frame of the RV to the ground to keep it in place; use multiple jacks to evenly distribute the vehicle’s weight.

    10. Unhitch and Set Up Camp

    When everything is in place, level, and stable, you can unhitch your RV, connect your hookups, and set up camp.

    Backing into your campsite can be a challenge and may take several attempts. With some practice and patience, you’ll learn how to back in smoothly with more confidence like an RV expert. If you’re looking to buy your next RV, check out a selection of new and used vehicles for sale on RVTrader.com!