Tag: seasonal

13 RV Camping Superstitions

Halloween is almost here, and it’s a bewitching time to take your RV out for an adventure. While fall is a fitting time to explore in your vehicle and enjoy outdoor activities, camping around Halloween can be a thrilling and spooky experience. In the spirit of the season, RV Trader is sharing 13 strange, silly, and scary superstitions observed by RV campers.

1. Do-Good Decorations

Personalizing your RV to make it feel just as bright and cheery as home can create a positive aura that wards off bad energies and evil spirits during this time of year. Jack-o’-lanterns, autumn leaf wreaths, lights, and other seasonal decorations can create the perfect vibes for Halloween camping.

2. Beware of Trespassing

According to generally-accepted rules of campground etiquette, you should never venture into someone else’s camping space unless you’re invited, even to quickly cut through as a shortcut. Not only is it considered rude, but you also don’t know what kind of bad luck or curses they’ve brought into their camp site.

3. Leave Your Shoes Outside

When camping, you don’t want to track unwanted things into the RV, whether it’s mud, dirt, sand, or bad luck. Leave your dirty shoes or hiking boots outside your RV when you camp to ensure both cleanliness and good fortune.

4. Bad Moon Rising

There are a couple of camping superstitions when it comes to a full moon rising. One says it’s unlucky to sleep in the light of a full moon, while another says you should never wander away into the night during a full moon for fear of werewolves.

5. Knock On Wood

Ancient pagan cultures believed spirits and sprites lived in trees, so knocking on tree trunks would awaken those entities. It was believed that well-intentioned sprites would then give you protection while the knocking would scare away the more evil spirits.

6. Don’t Steal the Stone

When you’re hiking, it’s good luck to pick up a small stone and carry it with you from the beginning to end of your hike. But don’t forget to drop the rock when you’ve reached your destination. “Stealing” the stone from the trail is said to curse you with bad luck that could result in your doom if you ever return to the trail.

7. Be Careful with Cairns

In another belief about rocks, cairns are stacks of stones set up along hiking trails, with the largest rock at the bottom and gradually decreasing in size to the top of the stack. Cairns can help guide you in the right direction when you hike. Spiritually they represent balance, so be careful not to knock them over!

8. Be Considerate with Crickets

You probably squish away any bugs you find in your RV, but think twice if you spot a cricket. These insects are considered to be good luck, so letting crickets stick around could help guarantee a positive RV trip.

9. Spellbinding Spiders

Sticking with the creepy crawly theme, some believe that when a spider falls into a flame it indicates that a witch must be nearby. Another folk tale says that when a spider is close, it means a loved one is watching over you with a net of protection from misfortune, just as a spider’s web traps insects.

10. Bad Blood with Bats

If you’re camping near a cave or forest, you might see a bat flapping its wings come nightfall. Some say that seeing a bat means a witch is closing in, while other folklore ties bloodsucking bats to legends about vampires.

11. The RV Wave

When you drive down the road or set up camp, you’ll see fellow RVers wave to each other. Consider yourself part of the club and make sure you wave back. It’s the polite thing to do and brings good luck your way while traveling and camping.

12. Crossroads

While there are several haunted roads that will give you the creeps, crossroad intersections are thought to represent connections between the realms of the living and the dead. Stopping at a crossroad around Halloween might summon a fortune-telling spirit. At the very least this spirit might even give some helpful directions for lost souls.

13. Ceremonial Drink

Once the campsite is set up, many RVers mark the occasion with a ceremonial drink. It’s a moment to appreciate your good fortune in reaching your destination, acknowledge the hospitality of the surrounding nature, and give thanks for the time spent with friends and family.

With so many superstitions and spooky destinations, camping with your RV for Halloween is a fun way to spend the holiday. To find the right RV for the occasion, be sure to check out new and used vehicles on RVTrader.com.

October 11, 2021
Top 10 RV Activities for the Fall Season

With the leaves changing colors and the air getting cooler, fall is a blissful time of the year to get out and explore with your RV. Autumn brings fall festivals, Halloween happenings, and outdoor adventures. Taking your RV on the road during the next few months is an excellent way to camp under the stars, partake in seasonal celebrations, and get together with family and friends. RV Trader is covering the top 10 fun fall activities for you to experience with your RV.

1. Find Fall Foliage

See all the trees change to bright orange, red, and yellow this fall by doing some leaf peeping with your RV. While you can travel all over the country to spot forests full of colorful canvases, some of the best fall foliage can be seen in the northeast and throughout national parks.

2. Get the Perfect Pick in a Pumpkin Patch

This family-friendly activity is a seasonal tradition, giving you the opportunity to get outside, visit the scenic countryside, and pick out the perfect pumpkins. Then, back in your RV, you can use them to carve Halloween jack-o-lanterns and decorate your space with autumn accents. Plus, with some culinary creativity, you can use these pumpkins with a dash of spice to create classic fall recipes, such as a Thanksgiving pumpkin pie. Make a feast of it and pair your pumpkin dessert with your Thanksgiving dinner prepared over a campfire.

3. Sip on Cider at an Apple Orchard

Starting in September, many apple orchards open up for visitors to pick their own apples, sip on hot apple cider, and eat delicious apple spiced donuts. A sure sign of the season, this is another outing that’s fitting for the family. With a variety of apple flavors, you can take them back to the RV to use in all kinds of recipes, including that perfect cup of fresh apple cider that immediately warms you up on a chilly campground evening.

4. Have a Ball at a Fall Festival

Make your rounds in your RV at fun fall festivals! This is your chance to check out Oktoberfest celebrations, Halloween and Thanksgiving parades, harvest parties, and oyster roasts. Each region of the country has something different when it comes to autumn events, whether that’s through cuisine offerings, pumpkin displays, or carnivals.

5. Drive on a Haunted Highway

If you’re feeling fearless, you could take your RV down a haunted highway. There are several haunted roads around the country that are the subject of terrifying folklore. From ghosts to goblins, exploring these haunted roads is a great way to embrace the Halloween season, just be sure your RV is ready to zip away if you have a scary close encounter.

6. Explore an Amazing Corn Maze

A classic roadside attraction, corn mazes amuse visitors as they lose themselves in a labyrinth of twists and turns through the cornfields. Many of these mazes are artistically designed with incredible attention to detail, so even if you’re not navigating the maze, they can be stunning to look at from above. Some even offer spooky thrills during Halloween nights with creepy characters emerging from the fields as you try to find your way out.

7. Go Camping

With cooler temperatures and clear skies, camping in the fall with your RV is a breath of fresh air. You can throw on a flannel and get under a blanket near a bonfire, gaze up at the stars, make s’mores, and tell ghost stories.

8. Spend an Autumn Day Outdoors

Have an adventure by discovering a new trail for hiking and biking. Get out on the water in a kayak or canoe, or grab your fishing rod and reel in a big catch while spending a peaceful day outside. Fall can be the perfect time for these outdoor activities, with weather that’s comfortably cool but still bright and sunny, not to mention the beautiful scenery that fills every backdrop of your adventure.

9. Visit a Vineyard

Wine country is a lovely setting during the fall, as vineyards harvest grapes for their upcoming wines and host special bottle releases and dinners. It’s a chance to kick back, relax, and have a glass of your favorite wine.

10. Tailgate at a Football Game

When it’s gameday, your RV is a winner with tailgating. Your RV makes it easy to barbecue, crack open a cold refreshment, dress up in your team’s colors, and play games like cornhole—all without having to leave the parking lot. Whether it’s a homecoming or a rivalry match, have a cookout and hang out with fans before kickoff.

Fall is full of fun activities that celebrate the changing of the seasons, rich traditions, enchanting travel destinations, and time spent together. Your RV brings it all together. Check out RVTrader.com to purchase the perfect RV for all of your autumn adventures.

September 13, 2021
Spring Break Travel Tips

Spring break is just around the corner for millions of Americans – cue the excitement! It’s a time to relax, recharge, and get away with family and friends after a particularly stressful year. But before you set out on your spring break adventure, consider these tips when planning your trip and while you’re out exploring.

Before You Go…

Research Locations

First, you’ll want to decide where you’d like to go. Are you looking for a local weekend getaway or are you looking for a longer road trip opportunity? Looking to escape to the mountains or the beach? There are so many options out there! Take some time to research different locations and come up with a few ideas to present. Get the whole family involved in the research process and come together to select your destination.

Check COVID Restrictions

When selecting your destination, check any COVID-19 restrictions that may apply to the location you would like to visit. Also be sure to follow any regulations that the state has put in place for your safety.

Set a Budget

If you’re looking to get away this spring break, the time to start saving is now. Once you’ve set a maximum budget, stick to it during your planning process. Make a list of the major and minor expenses related to your travels so you can be prepared ahead of time. Start with the basics of gas, food, and campgrounds then go from there. This part of the planning process isn’t the most fun, but it will ensure that you can relax and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Determine How You Will Get There

There are a few different options when it comes to getting to your destination in an RV. If you have an RV of your own, using it for your vacation could be the ideal option for you and your family. If you don’t, there are options to rent RVs if that’s something you are interested in pursuing. There are options to rent both towable RVs as well as drivable RVs – the choice is completely yours. Drivable RVs are great for larger groups looking for additional amenities and towable RVs give you the flexibility to unhitch from your unit and explore the area in your personal vehicle. As air travel decreases due to safety concerns, people across the country are turning to RVs to get them to their next destination. It’s a worthwhile – and fun – option to consider.

Book Early

As we mentioned, road trips will most likely be on the rise this spring break as many people still want to avoid flying due to the pandemic. You’ll want to make sure you are booking all aspects of your trip well in advance. If you’re renting an RV for your adventure, make sure you book as early as you can. If you plan to stay at campgrounds or RV parks, make sure you reserve your site ASAP.

Plan Your Itinerary

Before you set out to your destination, come up with a game plan for each day. It doesn’t have to be super in-depth, but creating a general itinerary for each day ensures you’ll get to complete as many activities as possible. Research popular activities, restaurants, and reviews in the area you’re traveling. Make reservations where possible and don’t forget to double-check to make sure these destinations are open when you plan on visiting.

Packing

Before you hit the road, take the time to create a quick packing checklist for each member of your family. Take note of the climate where you are traveling so you pack proper attire and don’t forget to pack the essentials (medications, masks, chargers, toothbrushes, etc.).

While You’re There…

Capture the Moment

We encourage you to be in the moment when you’re traveling, but taking a picture or two during the fun is perfectly fine and a great way to look back at memories. You can also re-live your spring break memories by journaling about your favorite moments at the end of each day.

Look For Teaching Opportunities

If you’re traveling with the kiddos, keep in mind that there’s always something new to learn even on vacation. Look for opportunities to teach your kids during your trip. Popular options include visiting national parks, famous landmarks, museums, and more. Check out our roadschooling tips for more creative ideas to learn on the road.

Are you ready to hit the road this spring break? We’re right there with you! Remember to travel safe and keep these tips in mind when planning your next adventure.

March 9, 2021
Top Tips for RV Spring Cleaning
Warmer weather is almost here. We can practically feel it! Before you know it, you’ll be loading up the RV for your next road trip. But slow your roll before you roll out. When was the last time you deep cleaned your RV? Spring is the perfect time to put a little elbow grease into your beloved home on wheels and we’ve got a few helpful tips. Check out our top tips for RV spring cleaning.

Inside:
- Wipe down ceilings, walls, hard surfaces, and appliances with a multi-surface cleaner that is EPA registered to disinfect and remove bacteria, viruses, mold, and other allergens.
- Empty, vacuum, and wipe out storage areas and cabinet pulls. Haven’t used an item in a couple of years? Get rid of it. Toss out any old or expired foods or spices.
- Strip and wash bedding, vacuum the mattress, and spray with an aerosol disinfectant before remaking the bed.
- Vacuum blinds, valances, and lampshades with a soft brush, then go over with an adhesive lint roller.
- Remove spots with a damp, soapy cloth. For hard-to-remove grease stains, scrape with a knife, then layer paper towels on top of the stain. Using the lowest heat setting, iron the paper towels to lift the grease. Then, gently scrub the spot with a mix of dish soap, white vinegar, and water. Finish your routine by steam cleaning.
- To flush your freshwater system lines, connect a clean water hose to your home’s outdoor faucet and connect the other end to your RV city water connection. Open your gray tank, turn on all the faucets, and run until the water looks, smells, and tastes clean. Use an RV freshwater deodorizer to flush your freshwater tank.
Outside:
- Start at the top. For fiberglass roofs, use a soft brush, hose, and any wash-and-wax product to remove grime. While you’re up there, look for any loose or cracked sealant and follow the manufacturer’s directions to remove old caulking and repair. If you have an older RV with a rubber roof, you’ll need specific rubber roof cleaning products.
- Know what you’re made of – metal or fiberglass. For painted or polished metal bodies, use a pre-wash to remove grime and grit, then clean with a non-abrasive cleaner, soft-bristled brush, and microfiber cloth or mitts. High-pressure washing is not recommended because these RVs are clad and riveted, and water can seep in between the seams. For fiberglass, use a wash-and-wax product with UV protection. Again, beware of the high-pressure washer – it can damage slideout seals and peel exterior decals.
- Use a silicone-based cleaner on all window, door, and slide-in gaskets or flexible weather sealants. Most spray on and don’t require any wiping or additional cleaning. Don’t neglect your awnings—they need a rinse, too.
Remember, spring cleaning is an opportunity to look for any problems and give your RV the attention it deserves so you’ll be ready to roll on your next adventure. Happy cleaning!

Looking for an RV of your own this spring?

Browse thousands of models on RVTrader.com

*Before tackling any cleaning jobs, check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
March 1, 2021
10 Tips for Winter RVing

Did you know? You can RV all year round! Many travelers love to explore in the winter so they can enjoy snow-covered views and activities like snowboarding, skiing, and more. Prepare for cold weather RVing with our 10 top tips:

Have the Right Kind of RV

Before you set out on a snow-filled adventure, make sure you have the right kind of RV for the job. For the most enjoyable winter travel experience, we suggest camping in a fully enclosed and insulated four season RV.

Check the Forecast Before You Head Out

Check the forecast in the area where you’ll be traveling BEFORE you hit the road. If there’s a snowstorm coming that your RV can’t handle, it might be best to postpone the trip or adjust the itinerary.

Make Sure Campgrounds Are Open

Campgrounds can have seasonal availability. Many popular spots close during winter months due to inaccessibility or management preference. Check the campground’s availability and hours of operations before you leave to make sure they are open for business during the colder months.

Have a Reliable Heat Source

Double check that your RV’s furnace is in working order before hitting the road. If your unit uses propane, bring additional tanks with you. Many RVers also use electric space heaters or onboard fireplaces as added heat sources on chilly days.*

Protect Your Plumbing and Holding Tanks

Avoid the hassle of frozen pipes and holding tanks by adding RV-specific antifreeze to your tanks and using heat tape on your hoses and pipes for added insulation. For those with fresh-water hookups, invest in a heated water hose to minimize the risks of freezing.

Park in the Sun

Use the sun to provide an additional layer of protection to your RV in the winter months. Parking in the sun can minimize the risk of frozen pipes and ice, and help your RV stay warmer than parking in the shade or under tree cover.

Use Drapes, Curtains, and Rugs for Additional Insulation

Heavy drapes and curtains can provide additional insulation on your RV’s windows by blocking cool air from entering your RV. Consider adding a few heavy rugs on the floor and using door draft blockers to keep chilly air from coming into your unit.

Check Seals and Weather Stripping

Make sure your weather stripping and seals are fully intact for additional protection against drafts and moisture. Swapping out old or broken seals and weather stripping doesn’t take too long and is definitely worth the extra effort before heading to your destination.

Consider a Skirt

An RV skirt is a material that is placed around the bottom of the RV that minimizes wind and cold weather from entering your unit. You can DIY or buy!

Use Your Oven

When you’re finished cooking a meal in your RV’s oven, leave the oven door open as it begins to cool to provide additional heat to your RV.*

Ready to head out on a snow-filled adventure of your own?

Find your dream RV on RVTrader.com today!

*Don’t leave a space heater or oven unattended and always travel with a fire extinguisher.

February 10, 2021
Valentine’s Date Night Ideas For RVers

An RV has the ability to take you just about anywhere, so use it to your advantage this Valentine’s Day! We’re breaking down a few romantic date night options that any RVer would love.

Go For a Weekend Getaway

Traveling is the way to any RVers heart, so why not plan a romantic weekend getaway for your significant other? Conduct some research and find a nearby destination that you’ve never visited to keep things exciting. It could be a drive to the mountains, a beach getaway, or simply a campground you’ve never visited before – the options are endless! Reserve the campsite ahead of time and plan a few fun activities that you both can do together.

Cook for Each Other

If your RV has a kitchen, try cooking a romantic meal for your partner. There are tons of on-the-go recipes that are equally delicious as they are simple. You could even set up a virtual cooking class where you can both follow along with the instructor to craft a perfect meal together. If your RV isn’t equipped with a full kitchen, try some delicious over-the-fire recipes to try. Or keep it simple and grab some takeout from a local restaurant!

Cozy Up by the Campfire

Once you’ve cooked your delicious dinner, gather some firewood, light a match, pour your favorite drink, and cozy up by the campfire. There’s nothing better than kicking your feet up after a long day of travel or outdoor activities. Don’t forget to bring supplies for s’mores or campfire turnovers to top off the night with a delicious treat!

Pack a Picnic

See if you can find a nearby trail or scenic location and add a hike or nature stroll to your itinerary. Before you head out, pack a small picnic to take with you to enjoy when it’s time for a scenic break. You can bring whatever your partner likes whether it be a charcuterie board full of cheese and crackers or a lovingly crafted PB&J. It’s the thought that counts!

No matter where you go, what really matters is who you are going there with! We hope you have fun trying these Valentine’s Day date night options.

Need an RV to take you there?

Find your perfect unit on RVTrader.com.

February 1, 2021
7 New Year’s Resolutions Perfect for RVers

We’re saying good riddance to 2020 (it was a doozy) and making way for 2021! A new year means a fresh start and people across the world are making resolutions for the upcoming year. You might have a few goals already planned out for 2021, but did you include any RV related resolutions into the mix? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites that are sure to make 2021 great.

Go on More Trips

It’s no secret that RVers love to travel, but are you making time for new adventures? Try creating your very own bucket list of short treks and long adventures for the year and involve the whole family in the research process.

Take the Long Way

RVing is all about enjoying the journey, not just getting from point A to point B. It’s often more exciting to take the scenic route as you never know what you’ll find on the road less traveled.

Attempt Boondocking

Have you always wanted to try dry camping? Why not try it in 2021? Boondocking can save you money and can be an incredible experience if you’re interested in really going off the grid.

Make New RV Friends

Building an RV community is one of the best parts of the lifestyle. Host a socially distanced campfire at your campsite or walk around and meet new people who enjoy similar activities as you do. There also are tons of online RV groups on social media that you can join to chat with like-minded people who love RVing just as much as you do. The RV community is BIG – take advantage of it!

Plan for a Change in Scenery

Have you been traveling to the same locations year after year? Branch out in 2021 and go to a new destination. Usually travel to the mountains in your RV? Why not try a beach trip this year? Remember, variety is the spice of life.

Enjoy Nature

It can be easy to have the go-go-go mentality when you’re an RVer, but take some time to slow down this coming year and really enjoy the beauty of nature. Snap a few photos, but don’t forget to take a few deep breaths of the fresh air and enjoy the silence and beauty of your surroundings.

Try Something New

This resolution can apply to just about anything! From going to new restaurants to stopping at exciting pit stops to activities like white water rafting or rock climbing. One of the best parts of RVing is that it allows you to explore new places and try new things.

Are you ready to buy an RV and make a few resolutions of your own this year?

Start your search on RVTrader.com today!

December 28, 2020
6 Holiday Light Shows Across The Country You Can’t Miss—Updated for 2023

Updated for 2023

There’s truly nothing like the holiday season. Formerly bare streets dazzle with festive decorations, and the ooohs and ahhhs of adults and children alike make us all feel warm and fuzzy from the inside out. Holiday light shows bring a sense of nostalgia to many and are definitely considered a tradition for some – but as an RVer, you’re extra lucky because you’re not limited to just the light displays in your area. We’ve rounded up seven of our favorite holiday light displays across the country as well as a few virtual options that are perfect for the whole family. Get ready to unhitch from your trailer or motorhome and experience the festive fun!

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens’ Gardens Aglow

Location:

105 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay, ME 04537

Why We Love It:

Gardens Aglow is New England’s biggest and brightest light display with over half a million lights! This magical display will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a winter wonderland.

Drive or Walk?:

Walk

Campgrounds Near By:

Gray Homestead Oceanfront Camping ● 6.4 miles south

21 Homestead Rd, Southport, ME 04576

# of Sites: 40

Shore Hills Campground ● 4.1 miles north

553 Wiscasset Rd, Boothbay, ME 04537

# of Sites: 135

Callaway Gardens’ Fantasy in Lights

Location:

17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Why We Love It:

There’s so much to do at Christmas at Callaway from shopping in the heated Christmas Village to driving through the dazzling illuminated forest. Callaway Gardens’ Fantasy in Lights is fun for the whole family and is one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the world – need we say more? The forest is lit up with 8 million lights and is a must-see for anyone looking to feel the magic of the holidays.

Drive or Walk?:

Both

Campgrounds Near By:

4 D. Roosevelt State Park, GA ● 4.4 miles east

32.8375, -84.81556

# of Sites: 81

Pine Mountain RV Resort ● 3.8 miles north

8804 Hamilton Rd, Pine Mountain, GA 31822

# of Sites: 168

Zilker Park Trail of Lights

Location:

2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Why We Love It:

Zilker Park Trail of Lights is an Austin staple and attracts thousands of visitors each year. This year you’ll see over 2 million lights, 90 lighted holiday trees, and more than 70 other displays. This event receives national accolades each year and has become a tradition to many in the area – why not make it one of yours?

Drive or Walk?:

Drive

Campgrounds Near By:

Austin Lone Star RV Resort ● 7.3 miles southwest

7009 Interregional Hwy, Austin, TX 78744

# of Sites: 150

The Oaks RV Park & Campground ● 23.9 miles southeast

753 Union Chapel Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612

# of Sites: 62

Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light

Location:

1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206

Why We Love It:

The Blossoms of Light holiday extravaganza has been a tradition in Denver for more than three decades. Don’t let cold weather deter you! This twinkling winter wonderland looks even more stunning with a fresh layer of snow. There are over half a million individual lights in the entire display. Warm up and enjoy holiday treats and hot drinks at the Hive Garden Bistro. This display is bright, bold, and cannot be missed.

Drive or Walk?:

Walk

Campgrounds Near By:

Cherry Creek State Park Campground ● 14.7 miles southeast

4201 S. Parker Rd. Aurora, CO 80014

# of Sites: 136

Bear Creek Lake Park ● 21.4 miles southwest

14218 W. Hampden Ave., Morrison, CO 80465

# of Sites: 47

New York City Window Wonderland

Location:

Virtual (https://windowwonderland.withgoogle.com/)

Why We Love It:

New York City holiday windows are an iconic tradition for many that have been around for more than 150 years. The windows dazzle with bright lights and creative displays that will leave you awe-struck. If you’re not looking to travel or venture out of your home this year, there’s no need. You can view past christmas displays on the comfort of your couch with a tablet, desktop, or smartphone. You’ll walk through the streets of Manhattan to view some of the best holiday displays in the world.

Northern Lights

Location:

Virtual (https://lightsoverlapland.com/virtual-aurora-tours/)

Why We Love It:

We’re taking a slightly different twist on holiday lights by taking you to Sweden to check out the natural wonder of the Northern Lights. These lights are stunning to view at any time of year and you’re guaranteed to still feel the magic of the season while you view the lights dancing in the sky. The tour doesn’t just include the Northern Lights, you can also meet huskies and reindeer by taking virtual sledding tours – what’s more festive than that?!

Ready to hit the road this holiday season in an RV of your own? Start your RV wishlist on RVTrader.com today!

Happy Holidays!

Disclaimer: Make sure to confirm with event organizers and websites that the attraction you want to travel to is still on before you hit the road!

December 1, 2020
How to Cook Thanksgiving Dinner on a Campfire
Are you spending Thanksgiving on the road this year? If you’re feeling cramped in your RV’s kitchen (or if your unit doesn’t have one with the necessary requirements), connect with nature this November and try cooking your Thanksgiving meal over a campfire. Check out a few of our favorite, simple recipes that the whole family will love:

Turkey

What You’ll Need:
- A heavy-duty grill grate that will cover your fire
- A kitchen thermometer
- Cast iron dutch oven (standard size)
- 6-8 lb. turkey
- Diced onions, celery, & carrots
- Fresh herbs (we recommend rosemary & sage) & preferred spices
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- Butter
Instructions:
- Thaw the turkey, remove any giblets, and pat dry with paper towels
- Apply butter and spices to the turkey, including under the skin
- Chop the onions, celery, and carrots into large chunks, and place them in the bottom of the dutch oven along with the cup of broth
- Place the turkey in the dutch oven and top with sage and rosemary
- Cover the dutch oven and cook over your fire for roughly 2-3 hours depending on size (the general rule for cooking a turkey is usually 20 minutes per pound)
- Use your thermometer – the turkey is done when the thigh meat reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees
- Let your turkey rest for around 30 minutes so the meat juices can redistribute
- Carve and enjoy!
Time-saving tip: Cook your other side dishes while the turkey is resting.

Campfire Sweet Potatoes

What You’ll Need:
- Sweet potatoes (one for each person)
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- Marshmallows
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
Instructions:
- Thoroughly clean the outer sweet potato skin and pat dry
- Pierce the outside of each sweet potato multiple times with a fork and lightly coat with olive oil
- Wrap each sweet potato individually with aluminum foil
- Place sweet potatoes on hot coals for 20-30 minutes or until tender
- Once the sweet potatoes are tender, slice open vertically and add butter, salt, and cinnamon as desired
- If you prefer marshmallows on your sweet potatoes, roast as many as you’d like and place them on top
Green Bean Casserole

What You’ll Need:
- Cast iron skillet
- 1 can of green beans
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- ½ can of milk
- Salt & pepper
- 1 pack of fried onions
- 1 pack of bacon bits (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and milk in your skillet
- Season with salt and pepper as needed
- Simmer over the fire until thick and hot
- Sprinkle with bacon bits and fried onions before serving
- Enjoy! (it doesn’t get easier than that, folks!)
Rolls on a Stick

What You’ll Need:
- Roasting skewers or a clean stick (remove bark)
- 1 pack of crescent rolls
- Butter
- Optional: Whipped cream or jam
Instructions:
- Grab your roasting stick and butter the clean end
- Wrap the crescent roll around buttered part of the stick
- Sit back, relax, and place your roll on a stick over the fire, turning occasionally
- In 10-15 minutes you’ll have a perfectly cooked roll
- Top with butter or, if you’re craving a sweet, top with whipped cream or jam
Apple Pie Packets

What You’ll Need:
- Apples (one for each person)
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Cinnamon
- Chopped nuts
- Vanilla ice cream
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Non-stick spray
Instructions:
- Cover a square of aluminum foil with non-stick spray
- Slice and place thinly cut apples on the square of aluminum foil
- Top the apples with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts
- Wrap the foil packet securely
- Place the wrapped packets on the grate over your fire and cook for 20 minutes
- Top with ice cream and enjoy!
Time-saving tip: For your stuffing and cranberry sauce, we suggest keeping it simple and grabbing boxed stuffing and canned cranberry sauce. Let’s be honest, we all love those as much as the homemade options. Heat the cranberry sauce over the fire in a saucepan & easily cook the boxed stuffing in a cast iron dutch oven.

It’s not only possible to cook Thanksgiving dinner on a campfire, it’s also pretty easy! If you’re ready to put on your chef’s hat, but still need a new RV to get you to the campsite, be sure to check out all the new and used RVs for sale and for rent at RVTrader.com.

*Disclaimer: Please follow all state and local laws and regulations regarding fire restrictions and safety. Be aware of drought and brush conditions, always monitor your campfire, and be prepared with a bucket of water to extinguish it fully at the end of enjoyment.
November 3, 2020
Top Destinations for Fall Foliage

Fall is a favorite time of year for many because of the brisk air, seasonal fun, and the endless amounts of fall foliage to view. Bright reds, yellows, and oranges fill the trees just as the leaves begin to fall. There are so many wonderful destinations to view fall foliage, but it can be hard to know exactly where to go. Luckily, we are breaking down a few of our favorites for you. So grab your pumpkin spice latte, and get ready to hit the road in your RV this autumn.

Take our exclusive quiz to discover the autumn road trip destination that’s perfect for you!

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is an increasingly popular place to take in views of the stunning fall colors autumn brings. The colors peak during late October, so there’s still time to plan your trip! The parkway is long, running from Virginia to North Carolina, so you’re sure to find the perfect viewing locations along your route. October is one of the busiest months to visit, and with extra cars on the road, it’s important to drive slowly and keep your eyes on the road (until you’re ready to pull over to take in the breathtaking sights).

Must-do: We highly recommend taking a pit stop at Cascade Falls at Milepost 271.9. This waterfall is truly stunning and is located in E. B. Jeffress Park. To get to the falls you’ll need to take a short hike (just over a mile) and there you will find beautiful views and scenic overlooks along the way.

Route 100, Vermont

Route 100 can be found in the center of Vermont and runs over 200 miles from north to south along the Green Mountains (although they are yellow, red, and orange in the fall). This route goes by many nicknames, one of which is “The Skier’s Highway” because it connects to a variety of popular skiing destinations. Many also say it’s one of the most scenic drives in New England and the views are top-notch in the fall. There are plenty of interesting places and fun towns to stop and stretch your legs when you’re taking your fall foliage tour.

Must-do: Don’t miss Moss Glen Falls in Granville along this route. The 30-ft. waterfall is truly stunning and you can even see it from your RV if you don’t want to step outside (although we encourage you to!) If you have a craving for sweets along your route, you are in luck! One of the most popular destinations along Route 100 is the Ben and Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. Be sure to check it out if you pass by and let us know your favorite flavor.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is located in Maine and is referred to as the crown jewel of the North Atlantic Coast. This park encompasses more than 40,000 acres of land and is the oldest park east of the Mississippi River. Acadia National Park is quintessential Maine and it’s even more striking in the fall months. The park is lined by miles of jagged coastline, lighthouses, and stunning trees. There are ocean views for as far as the eye can see and the weather in Maine during fall is perfect for hiking and other activities.

Must-do: Thunder Hole is one of the parks most popular attractions that we recommend checking out. When the tides are just right, the surf rushes into a narrow cavern and forces out air from beneath the cliffs, creating a thunderous sound.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is one of the top destinations in Colorado to take in views of the fall colors. The golden yellow Aspen Trees are stunning and there are a variety of places to take in the scenic views. But we suggest checking out the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. This open area of land boasts many hiking trails and is one of the most photographed places in Aspen. There are incredible views of Crater Lake and Maroon Lake where the colorful trees mirror off of the clear water.

Must-do: While you’re in the area, we recommend visiting Ashcroft. Ashcroft is a scenic, abandoned mining town just South of Aspen. It may seem spooky to some, but the views are stunning – don’t forget your camera!

The Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

The Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri rounds out our list of top destinations for fall foliage. The leaves truly show off their vibrance in mid-to-late October and they are not to be missed. The weather starts to get chilly this time of year but is nothing like Missouri’s colder winter months. There are plenty of places to take a boat out to see the beautiful fall colors on the water as opposed to land.

Must-do: Once you’ve seen your fill of fall foliage, check out some of the most popular caves at the Lake. We recommend taking a trip to Bridal Cave where you’ll see epic rock formations and another underground lake.

Are you ready to hit the road and take in all of the fall colors this season? We hope these destinations have inspired you to take a trip of your own this autumn. Have you been to any of these destinations? Which was your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.

October 16, 2020