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Tag: seasonal

  • FMCA Tech Tip: Cold-Weather Camping Tips

    FMCA Tech Tip: Cold-Weather Camping Tips

    Not all RVers go into hibernation or head for warmer climates. Some embrace the winter weather and plan activities that involve RV trips. sledding, skiing, winter hiking… All of these are more pleasant when you know that you have a warm RV waiting for you at the end of the day’s adventure. However, some special preparations and precautions need to be taken. Here a few tips for winter RV trips.

    Water Tips

    Protecting the water system from freezing is of paramount importance. Most RVs aren’t designed for use in colder temperatures. Adding insulation or heat tape may be necessary. Another idea for short outings is to leave the RV water system winterized and then take along bottles of water for drinking and tooth brushing, and bring RV antifreeze for flushing the toilet.

    Cozy and Warm

    To ensure that things stay toasty inside the RV, make sure the furnace is operating properly before you leave home. Fill the propane tanks before you depart, and keep a close watch on tank levels during your outing. If you have a camping spot with electricity, bring along a thermostatically controlled ceramic heater to provide supplemental heat.

    If you’ll be using battery power to keep the furnace running, make sure the batteries are in good condition and stay fully charged. They will be less likely to freeze.

    Safety tips to help ensure a safe winter camping adventure:

    • Try to find a parking spot that is exposed to sunlight during the day and where some type of windbreak is available.
    • If it snows during your stay, make sure to keep the exhaust pipes for the generator or motorhome engine clear to allow gases to dissipate as they should.
    • Don’t allow too much snow to accumulate on the RV roof or allow it to cover vents, the satellite dish, etc.
    • Always test your carbon monoxide alarm before every outing. Carbon monoxide can be deadly, and the symptoms are similar to the flu.

    More Resources

    If your heart is set on cold-weather camping, check out this article for in-depth tips.

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Join today and save $10 — a special offer for RV Trader readers. Learn more at https://join.fmca.com/trader18.

     
    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional. 
  • FMCA Tech Tip: Winterizing Your RV: Air vs. Antifreeze

    FMCA Tech Tip: Winterizing Your RV: Air vs. Antifreeze

    Unless you’re one of the lucky RVers heading south this time of year, fall’s cooler weather means it’s almost time to winterize your RV. The how-to of winterizing can be a hot debate (pun intended). FMCA has tips to help you decide the right option for your RV.

    About Winterizing

    Winterizing deals primarily with the plumbing system and protecting your RV from freeze damage. All water must be removed from holding tanks, water lines, and plumbing fixtures. Two methods are performed to winterize RV plumbing: using air pressure to blow moisture out of the system or pumping antifreeze through the water lines.

    Which should you use? The answer depends on where you live and the complexity of your RV’s plumbing system.

    Air

    Air is easy to use; just connect an air compressor to the water hose and blow everything out. In theory, the system will be dry. Plus, air is free, so it eliminates the need to buy bottles of antifreeze. Air pushes most of the water out, but residual water can remain in water lines’ low spots where it can freeze, expand, and cause damage.

    In a simple RV with minimal plumbing lines, using only air may not be an issue. But if you live in a place with long, cold winters, using air may not be enough to protect your RV from freeze damage.

    Antifreeze

    RV professionals consider antifreeze to be the best method for preventing freeze damage. Keep in mind that it differs from automotive antifreeze. RV antifreeze is nontoxic and is safe to use in fresh-water systems. It freezes but does not solidify. Instead, it turns to slush, which will not expand to crack fittings or water lines.

    One drawback to antifreeze is that it can be messy and requires buying a few gallons every season. It also can cause water from treated lines to taste bitter.

    More Resources

    For detailed, step-by-step instructions on the winterizing process, click here.

    Join the air vs. antifreeze debate. Check out this video from “RV Doctor” Gary Bunzer.

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Join today and save $10 — a special offer for RV Trader readers. Learn more at https://join.fmca.com/trader18/.

    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.

  • FMCA Tech Tip: RV Spring Cleaning Tips

    FMCA Tech Tip: RV Spring Cleaning Tips

    Spring is in the air! FMCA has gathered a few less-routine RV spring cleaning tips that are easy to overlook when you’re excited to prepare for the season ahead.

    Exterior Cleaning

    • Insects, especially mud dauber wasps, like to build nests in refrigerator burner tubes, rooftop tank vents, water heater vents, and furnace chimneys. Check and remove any obstructions.
    • Spring is a good time to seal your RV’s exterior with a wax or poly sealant. This will provide a barrier to the elements and protect your rig throughout the year. Consult your RV owner’s manual for recommendations for the particular finish of your RV.
    • Windows, door frames, vents, and any rooftop protrusions (plumbing, air conditioner, satellite, or antennas) should all be cleaned. They also need a good bead of sealant to prevent water intrusion. Check for any cracked caulking, and re-caulk any problem areas.
    • Don’t forget to check your RV storage areas. Odds are that dust and dirt have settled here. Sweep out and, if needed, wash these compartments.

    Carpet and Furniture

    • Carefully check your RV’s carpet and furniture. Unfortunately, an RV can be a haven for insects, mice, or other rodents during the cold winter months. Mice have been known to chew through carpet or furniture to make their nests.
    • Wash items that you may just spot-clean throughout the year, such as heavy bedding, rugs, pillows, etc. Before you hit the road this spring, now is the time to take care of items that can be difficult to clean while on the road.
    • Clean upholstery and furniture per your RV owner’s manual instructions. Some finishes, such as suede or leather, need special care. Leather can keep its beautiful finish for years if properly maintained.
    • Spring is a good time to vacuum and steam-clean the carpet. This will help prevent odor problems and is another task that is more difficult to complete while you’re in the midst of the RV season.

    Kitchen

    • Clean the air filters on the microwave oven and stove hood exhaust. Replace as needed.
    • Speaking of filters…there may also be filters on your water lines for incoming water. Check filters for the sink or ice maker, and clean as needed.
    • Clean the interior of the refrigerator with a good disinfecting cleaner. Leave the doors open to allow for air circulation.

    Bathroom

    • Clean the toilet, sink, and shower with a mild cleaner such as lemon juice and baking soda. Try to avoid bleach products, as they can degrade the seals in your holding tanks over time.
    • Check your bathroom cabinets for expired medications and products. Make sure your first aid kit is stocked.

    Removing RV Odors

    The need for odor and moisture control is greatest when an RV is closed up and placed in storage during the off-season. Mold, mildew, and bacteria love to grow in enclosed spaces where the air is not refreshed. Air fresheners help, but they merely mask odors rather than remove them. To remove odors that have a foothold in your RV, consider using an activated charcoal odor removal substance, such as Bad Air Sponge.

    And Don’t Forget…

    Spring cleaning is the perfect time to check the batteries in your fire detector and carbon monoxide detector. This is a simple and important step to protect your family throughout the year.

    Hopefully these less common tips provide ideas as you begin your RV’s spring cleaning. Happy travels!

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Join today for just $50 — a savings of $10 just for RV Trader readers. Learn more at https://join.fmca.com/trader18.

    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.

  • Snowy Destinations

    Snowy Destinations

    Whether you live in a naturally snowy climate or just pine for one, these destinations are great spots to truly enjoy the winter weather. The three spots we picked out all have a unique charm to them – but are not the big resorts you’ve likely heard so much about.

    Mammoth, CA

    Mammoth is a great destination for skiers and non-skiers alike. The mountain itself has more open terrain to explore than any other ski resort in the country – which is impressive. And, if that wasn’t great enough – it is also known for being uncharacteristically sunny throughout the year – with more than 300 days of sunshine on average.

    If you aren’t up for skiing, you can check out the Village at Mammoth Mountain – which is full of cute shops and restaurants – or ride the Gondola up to the mountain’s summit for some breathtaking views of the snow-covered surroundings.

    If you’re looking for a day trip – check out June Mountain Lake – which is possibly more beautiful in the winter than it is during the summer.

    Midway, UT

    Make sure you pack your bathing suit…is typically a recommendation you would expect to find in an article about the best snowy destinations – but you’ll definitely need one for this stop. The Homestead Crater is a hot spring found inside a 55-foot tall limestone rock and was slowly formed by the melting snow. The coolest – and possibly creepiest – part is that the crater is completely dark. They do have some lights, but overall, it’s dark water. To get a better view – you can even look into scuba diving there. Afterward, hike to the top of the limestone rock to see a view of all Herber Valley – which includes Herber City, Midway, and Daniel – and take a look down on the hot spring and swimmers below.

    Steamboat Springs, CO

    Steamboard Springs, in our opinion, has one of the cutest ski villages around. This particular town is bustling throughout the year with great events and festivals, including a Hot Air Balloon Rodeo.

    In the winter, Steamboat is known for their “champagne powder” – the term coined to describe their light, fluffy snow. After hitting the slopes – should you choose to – the Yampa River Core Trail is a great pastime. It runs from one side of Steamboat to the other along the frozen river. As you walk along the trail – it kind of feels like you’re walking through a winter wonderland.

    Wondering where Steamboat Springs got its name? From the hot springs that are found throughout the surrounding area, of course! There are two famous ones – the Old Town Hot Springs and the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Both are relatively close to downtown Steamboat – and would be great to relax in after a busy day in the wintery weather.

    Winter weather doesn’t last that long – so make sure to plan a trip to enjoy these snowy destinations that are guaranteed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life snow globe.

  • Gifts for the Whole Family

    Gifts for the Whole Family

    Where has the year gone? I swear it seems like we had less time between the holidays this year- and my long shopping list proves it. Just in case you’re in the same boat, we’ve put together a wide variety of gifts that any RVer – or future RVer – would love. And since we know that thinking of the perfect present is half the battle – we hope this takes some of that stress off your plate.
     

    For the Kids

    Let’s be honest, we all want more RVers in our lives – so why not start them out young? Land of Nod has the cutest stuff for little ones to help them dream about RVing from the very beginning.

     

    For the Grill Master

    We all have to eat while we’re out on the road – so for those of us who prefer to grill these products from REI will make sure that you’re still getting a gourmet meal.

    For the Glamper

    Now tent campers may say that RVing is already a form of glamping – but what do they know? For the glamorous among us – these items will definitely spruce up any camp site – taking it to new, over the top levels.

    For the Hiker

    We know the weather’s a bit chilly out these days (cough – understatement – cough) – but these things will help get you ready for warmer weather and great days spent out of the trail.
    The holidays are definitely upon us – so we hope this list inspires you, while helping you relax and focus on spending time with your loved ones.
  • Tech Tip: Spring RV Exterior Prep

    Tech Tip: Spring RV Exterior Prep

    Are you itching to hit the road this spring? March is when many RVers dewinterize their RV, prepping it for the travel season. It’s important to not overlook your RV’s exterior. Here are a few reminders on behalf of FMCA and Gary Bunzer, the “RV Doctor.”

    With frigid winter temperatures, chances are you haven’t been venturing outside over the past several months to take a close look at your RV. Now is the time to conduct a thorough inspection before you hit the road. A clean RV will more clearly reveal potential problems than a dirty one. So, unless you used a heavy-duty RV cover during the winter, a detailed washing of the RV is necessary. Begin by removing the protective boxes used to cover the plastic roof vents. Also, remove any tape or foil you applied over exhaust vents, such as at the furnace assembly.

    After the coach exterior has been cleaned, begin airing out the unit. Remove the insulating foam inserts that were placed in the windows and roof vents and fully open each window and roof vent. While you are at each window, double-check the weather stripping and the exterior weep holes, ensuring they are still in good shape. If necessary, lubricate the slider tracks on any windows or screens that open.

    Perform a complete and detailed inspection of all the roof components, seams, and edges. Now is the time to seal any areas that need attention. Inspect the roof air conditioners for damage incurred during the winter months. Carefully straighten any bent or damaged fins that may be exposed on the condenser coil. Once you get inside the RV, clean or replace the return air filters.

    Inspect and operate all compartment bay doors, access doors, access panels, etc. Check the sealant around every window, as well as all components attached to the exterior sides of the RV. Lubricate all mechanical latches and keyed locks. Use a dry lubricant, such as Boeshield T-9. Many RVers use a product like WD-40 to lubricate latches and locks. Products like this should not be considered a lubricant; truly, they are water displacement products that prohibit rust and corrosion.

    Operate and lubricate the moving components of all the manually operated awnings. Be sure to consult your RV owner’s manual; awning manufacturer recommendations can vary widely. Use a mild detergent to remove any mold or mildew that may have developed on the awning material since last fall.

    Don’t forget to check under the RV and look for anything out of the ordinary, such as darkened areas on the ground that may indicate a leak. Inspect the areas that you made repairs to during the winterizing procedure last fall. You’ll want to make sure those repairs can withstand another season of travel.

    Lastly, inspect and lubricate all of your RV’s slide-out mechanisms. Again, be sure to use only a dry lubricant on these mechanisms.

    These exterior maintenance steps are a necessary part of readying your RV for the season. Inspecting the RV’s exterior is a step many RVers overlook, but it is an important part of the dewinterization process that should not be forgotten. Take the time now to help prevent potential problems down the road. Safe travels this spring!

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Learn more at FMCA.com.

    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with a RV professional.

  • Keep America Beautiful Month: How to care for the environment while on the road this April

    Keep America Beautiful Month: How to care for the environment while on the road this April

    Did you know that April is Keep America Beautiful Month?
    Here at RV Trader, we’re committed to helping you make the most of RVing, whether that means getting the most bang for your buck during the purchase process or uncovering the best tips and tricks for the on-the-go RV lifestyle. This month, we’re providing you with a few key strategies you can use to protect the beautiful scenery around us while enjoying it on the road, in celebration of the meaning behind the Keep America Beautiful campaign and its mission: to end littering, improve recycling, and beautify communities.

     

    –Try dry camping. While it can definitely feel much more primitive and more like “traditional” camping, giving your unit some time off from hook-ups might be exactly what you need to unplug- and obviously as a much lesser effect on the environment.

     

    -Consider solar panels. These easy-to-use panels absorb the sun’s rays and convert the light to energy, providing you with a power source even in the most remote areas — without the excessive use of traditional electricity.

     

    –Know best practices for waste disposal. A few tips RVers tend to use: dispose of human waste in catholes at least 300 ft. from bodies of water, preferably in catholes at least 8 inches into the ground.

     

    -Invest in a good water filtration system. Doing so will not only save you money in terms of laying off bottled water, but will also the amount of physical waste you produce.

     

    –Teach children to turn off the water when brushing teeth, scrubbing hands, etc. They may not see it as a huge deal at first, but little by little, every drop adds up!

     

    –Keep campfires clean and local. Avoid burning plastics or non-wooden objects, and aim to only use wood harvested from the local environment, as certain pesky insects could be attracted to the flame and interrupt the balance of the ecosystem.

     

    There are also a number of specific actions you can take to support the Keep America Beautiful Campaign as a whole. Just of few of these ideas specifically applicable to RVers include:

     

    –Participate in the Great American Cleanup. Using their website, you can search Keep America Beautiful’s list of affiliate cleanup programs to find specific locations where you could participate with the program. The great part about this for RVers? No matter where you are, you can use the affiliate search tool to identify the program nearest you at any time, and see what you can do to help each community as you roadtrip.

     

    –Share pictures of your group taking care of the environment and surrounding communities while roadtripping on social media pages. Use hashtags such as #cleanYOURblock, #GreatAmericanCleanup, and #KeepAmericaBeautiful to showcase how taking care of the environment truly can be done from anywhere – even on the road. These types of photos inspire others to join in the mission of Keep America Beautiful and gets them excited to pay mind to the benefits of the helping the natural world as well.

     

    –Consider donating to Keep America Beautiful, as well as their thousands of communities across the country as you travel in your RV. Little by little, small contributions can turn into a huge impact. If you’re hitting the roads and traveling throughout the nation anyway, why not showcase your commitment over time to protecting environments all across the country?

     

    National Geographic’s Intelligent Travel Blog recently noted that Rich Luhr, blogger and publisher of Airstream Life magazine, phrased the environmentally friendly side of RVing perfectly:

     

    RVs may have the reputation of being gas-guzzlers on the road…but when they stop moving, they’re exemplary models of conservation.

     

     

    According to Luhr, many of us go RVing to unplug from our typical day-to-day…why not use this mindset to unplug from excessive consumption of energy and technology, too?

     

    Check out the Keep America Beautiful website to find out more ways you can conserve, protect, and beautify every environment around – no matter where in the world you are.

     

    What are some ways you like to keep your RV adventures nature-friendly?

    Comment and let us know!

  • The Top 10 Spring RV Destinations for 2017

    The Top 10 Spring RV Destinations for 2017

    One of the best parts about RVing is the fact that you really can do it all year round- who ever said it needed to be summertime for us to enjoy the outdoors and embrace adventures? Yet, there are certain RV destinations that are perfect to visit in very specific seasons. While some Floridian destinations get us going in July, others in Colorado might inspire us in the winter months. When it comes to the springtime and mildly-tempered, comfortable weather, we’ve curated just what you need to plan the past spring RV trip ever. Check out our top picks this year for the best places to visit in your RV this spring!

    Washington, D.C.

    Image source: Travel Channel
    Best time to visit: Late March/Early April
    Sample RV Parks: Washington DC /Capitol KOA; Adventure Bound Camping Resorts; Joint Base Andrews Family Campground
     

    Not only do multiple RV parks surround our nation’s capital in terms of accommodations, the District of Columbia also offers some of the most incredible floral displays you may ever see in your lifetime. In addition to the countless historical monuments and museums, the National Cherry Blossom Festival commences every year between March and April- and it’s sure to leave you speechless.

    Image source: The Odyssey

     

    With most of the blooms located near the famed Tidal Basin and along the National Mall, the festival celebrates the donation of 3,000 of the beautiful trees from a Tokyo mayor to Washington D.C. in the early 1900s. Between pleasant weather for enjoying outdoor attractions and the smell and sight of fresh flowers on thousands of trees, what more could you ask for in a spring vacation?

     
     

     

     

    New Orleans, Louisiana

    Image source: Travefy

    Best time to Visit: February – May
    Sample RV Parks: French Quarter RV Resort; Pontchartrain Landing; New Orleans West KOA
    Image source: Travefy
    There’s nothing that represents the positive vibes of spring more than a French Quarter bayou-style getaway. Whether you’d rather experience the jazz festivals and incredibly random but perfectly timed block parties or taste the best creole food the world has to offer, N’awlins provides a cultural experience like no other.
    Get to know the history, shop the unique markets, and experience the artistic side of the city- no matter what you choose to do, you can bet that you’ll leave a weekend in this city with an experience you’ve never had before.
    Plus, if you visit during Mardi Gras season? Get ready for the kind of party you’ve never seen before!
     


    Savannah, Georgia
     
    Image source: FTD.com

     

     

    Best time to Visit: March – Early May
    Sample RV Parks: Sunshine RV Park; Lotts Island RV Campground; Savannah Oaks RV Resort

    If you’re keen on flowers and pleasant southern breezes, Savannah is your place to go this year. Between the countless St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and festivities (did we mention their awesome parade?) and tours of rustic old historic homes, you won’t be able to get enough of this charming city. Dine outdoors, relax at Tybee Island, or enjoy some coastal food at the Seafood Festival.

    Image source: South Magazine

    Even with all this, two of the biggest attractions Savannah is known for?

    Music and Azaleas. A number of curated music festivals and the blooming of florals will probably make you never want to go home once you visit this springtime escape.

     


    Hilton Head, South Carolina
    Image source: Trip Advisor

    Best time to Visit: April – June
    Sample RV Parks: Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort and Marina; Hilton Head Island Motorcoach Resort

    Don’t be fooled by the fact that this popular summer destination is on the beach – it definitely doesn’t need to be 90 degrees to enjoy it! Believe it or not, one of the best times to visit classic harbor town is in the spring; between lighthouse tours, plenty of biking trails, and coastal dining galore, the lesser crowds have the ability to make this nautical destination even more enjoyable.

    Image source: Suburban Turmoil

    Learn about the history of the Gullah Trail, visit unique southern boutiques, or try one of the spas in town. When you add these to a stop by one of their food or wine festivals, you couldn’t ask for a better break from reality.

     

    Austin, Texas

     
    Image source: Keyrenter Austin
    Best time to visit: March – Early May
    Sample RV Parks: Bastrop / Southeast Austin / Colorado River KOA; Leander / Northwest Austin KOA; Oak Forest RV Park

     

    There are some cities in the U.S. with experiences that can’t be duplicated, and Austin is one of them. Plan a visit to one of their huge food and wine fests- the Pecan and Olive festivals are two of the most renowned. If beer is more your thing, not to worry – the Untapped fest won’t have you leaving thirsty.

    Image source: Visit Austin
    With a plethora of different activities, you’ll find something to entertain you in this city no matter what your interests are. If you’re into any and all college sports, you don’t want to miss the UT Orange-White scrimmage. Like cars? Try the Lonestar Roundup car show. Comedy more your thing? Check the O. Henry Pun-off, or the Moontower Comedy and Oddity fest…but one of the most unique events of them all? The Buda Wiener Dog Races..yes, we said wiener dog races. Need we say more?
     

    Scottsdale, Arizona

    Image source: Huffington Post

    Best time to visit: March – Early May
    Sample RV Parks: Mesa / Apache Junction KOA; Scottsdale Trailer Corral;
    Eagle View RV Resort at Fort McDowell

    Image source: Charter Flight Group

    If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-oriented, outdoorsy springtime getaway feel, Scottsdale is the place for you. This western city mixes some of the most spectacular floral displays with desert simplicity, and it’s the perfect mix in the spring. Take the kids to visit the famed Pony Express attractions, then try out a few scoops from the Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlor.

    Take a look at the grand Taliesin West, or take a carriage ride through town. And forget hiking the Grand Canyon – this city offers famed “flightseeing” helicopter rides over the canyon! From MLB spring training to hiking through Pinnacle Peak Park, you’ll leave with a curated experience mixing history and culture that’ll leave you with unforgettable memories.


    San Diego, California

    Image source: Biocept



    Best time to visit: March – May
    Sample RV Parks: Surf & Turf RV Park; San Diego Metro KOA; Fiddler’s Cove Marina & RV Park (Navy MWR)

    Did someone say whale watching? San Diego is an incredibly popular spot for visitors in the spring, and for good reason. With millions of visitors every summer, the lesser crowds in the cooler springtime months make for a seaside Californian getaway that won’t leave you tired of hustling through busy streets.

    Image source: San Diego Convention Center

    This is especially a great pick for you if your group loves animals – from visiting the San Diego Zoo, taking a walk through the Birch Aquarium, and taking a harbour or whale watching tour, this navy town won’t leave you short of adventure. While you’re there, be sure to visit a San Diego Padres game; if you end up here in April, you definitely don’t want to miss the great Red Bull Air Race for some aviation awe.

    And you’d certainly be amiss if you didn’t stop by the Carlsbad Flower Field, where acres of springtime blooms will make you never want to leave.


    Denver, Colorado

    Image source: City Pictures

     

    Best Time to Visit: March – May
    Sample RV Parks: Denver East/Strasburg KOA Holiday; Flying Saucer RV Park; Prospect RV Park

     

    Image source: Thrillest

    Let us explain – while this location is certainly one of the top picks for winter ski escapes, it’s just as gorgeous and engaging in the springtime, too! The natural hot springs are incredible when it’s neither freezing nor hot outside, and horseback riding amidst spectacular wildflowers will prove an experience your Instagram followers will definitely envy.

    Hiking on the Lupine Trail or checking out the Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway are adventures incomparable to anywhere else, and shopping in Old Colorado City will bring nostalgic western vibes we can’t really put into words.

     

    Charleston, South Carolina

     

    Image source: Conde Nast Traveler

     

    Best time to visit: March – May
    Sample RV Parks: Oak Plantation Campground; Mt. Pleasant/Charleston KOA Holiday;
    Fain’s RV Park

    Image source: Hidden Charleston

    Honestly, we’re not even sure where to begin with Charleston! This classic southern gem of a travel locale will get you feeling spring like no other when you visit during the Festival of Houses and Gardens, when architectural and garden tours leave you able to do nothing but smile. If you’re into fitness and health, the Cooper River Bridge Run that takes place in early April will give you a cardio and community experience you can’t find in many other places, passing by historic Fort Sumter and the USS Yorktown.

    And of course, with this being another coastal town, we’d be amiss to not mention the seafood…the annual Blessing of the Fleet Festival, where Charlestonians and Mount Pleasant Residents “welcome seafood season,” provides a celebration for the ages with a boat parade, arts and crafts, shag dancing, and local restaurant vendors. This is especially a great destination for couples, named by numerous go-to travel sources as one of the most romantic cities in America.

     
     

    Outer Banks, North Carolina

    Image source: OBX.org



    Best time to visit: March – May
    Sample RV Parks: Camp Hatteras KOA Resort; Rodanthe Watersports & Campground;
    Ocean Waves Campground

     

    Image source: Mountains to Sea

    If all you really want is a quiet, natural escape, then the Outer Banks should be next on your 2017 travel bucket list.

    Packed with tourists during the summer season, the peaceful camper spots on both the ocean- and sound-sides of the banks provide a retreat where you’ll be able to have just as much time for relaxation as you do adventure in the spring.

    Take a stroll on the beach when the weather is cool and comfortable, and sea glass and unique shells are plentiful on the shore. Shipwreck pieces are known to wash up after the plentiful rain storms northern Carolina experiences this time of year, and because the crowds are lesser, you’ll have much less people to fight over them for! Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial, or listen to old history and ghost stories put on by locals, or visit the quaint shops and restaurants, which open with great “wake up season” prices in the spring.

    And you can feel free to bring your dogs to this location- leash laws at the beach are much more lax this time of year, and canine-themed events like WOOFstock are held annually to make time for play with your four-legged family members.

    For even more travel tips and advice on prepping for your next RVcation, be sure to stay tuned to RV Insider as well as our Facebook and Instagram pages!
  • The Most Romantic RV Parks to Visit this Valentine’s Day

    The Most Romantic RV Parks to Visit this Valentine’s Day

    No plans yet for Valentine’s Day? No problem! To help out those couples who not only love each other, but also love to RV, we’ve put together a list of the most romantic parks. Now you can pack up the RV, hit the road with your partner, and fall in love all over again at these 15 national parks and campgrounds.

    Hunting Island State Park

    Image source: blog.rvshare.com

    Location: Hunting Island, SC

    Website: https://southcarolinaparks.com/hunting-island

     

    Mountain Landing Suites & RV Park

                                                                    Image source: www.MountainLanding.net

    Location: Pagosa Springs, CO

    Website: https://www.mountainlanding.net/

     

    Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort

                                                                Image source: www.beverlybeachcamptown.com 

    Location: Flagler Beach, FL

    Website: https://www.beverlybeachcamptown.com/

     

    Petoskey RV Resort

    Location: Petoskey, MI

    Website: https://www.sunoutdoors.com/michigan/sun-outdoors-petoskey-bay-harbor

     

    First Landing State Park

    Location: Virginia Beach, VA

    Website: https://www.first-landing-state-park.org/

     

    Stephen C. Foster State Park

    Location: Fargo, GA

    Website: https://gastateparks.org/StephenCFoster

     

    Wellesley Island State Park

     

                                                                                      Image source: The RV Kids

    Location: Fineview, NY

    Website: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/wellesleyisland/details.aspx

     

    Silver Falls State Park

     

                                                                                Image source: Oregon State Parks

    Location: Sublimity, OR

    Website: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=151

     

    Shepard State Park

    Location: Gautier, MS

    Website: https://shepardstatepark.com/

     

    Zion River Resort at Zion National Park

    Location: Virgin, UT

    Website: https://www.zionriverresort.com/

     

    Baja’s Resort at East Cape

    Image source: www.EastCapeRV.com 

    Location: B.C.S., Mexico

    Website: https://www.bajasresortateastcape.com/

     

    Coral Sands RV Resort

    Location: Ormond Beach, FL

    Website: https://coralsandsinn.com/rv-resort/

     

    Chincoteague Island KOA Resort

                                                                                 Image source: Cork & Canvas

    Location: Chincoteague Island, VA

    Website: https://koa.com/campgrounds/chincoteague/

     

    Grayson Highlands State Park

    Location: Mouth of Wilson, VA

    Website: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands

     

    North Bend Park & Campgrounds

    www.virginiaisforlovers.com

    Location: Boydton, VA

    Website: https://www.virginia.org/listing/north-bend-park-campground-john-h-kerr-reservoir-(buggs-island-lake)-us-army-corps-of-engineers/8240/