A road-life friend of ours once said that losing her job was the best gift she’d ever received. Without that jolt to her normal routine, she swears that she’d still be plodding a worn path waiting for the day to retire, instead of living the exciting new life she’s created. All it took was a corporate downsize.
Finding work while traveling requires creativity, resourcefulness, flexibility and an ability to see yourself in a new light. Luckily our friend already had these qualities in spades. Rather than seeing herself as her resume implied, with a list of professional positions, she saw herself as a collection of skills that apply to a variety of settings. Thinking outside the confines of your well-grooved career path is key to discovering a whole host of new opportunities. And if you’re just starting out, learning this lesson early is essential to success.
Since 2012, we’ve found plenty of paid work opportunities (both online and in-person) while traveling in our little vintage canned-ham camper named Hamlet. Has every job been awesome? Nope. But through each, whether sublime or subpar, we learned, laughed, and kept our road life rolling.
If you catch yourself wondering if you’re ready to start the road life yourself, we can help you find out.
Agree with These 10 Statements? You Might Be Ready to Work from Your RV
Any of these sound like with where you are right now?
“Breaking up my routine and establishing new ones seems interesting and exciting.”
“I want to go to new places, and get to know them more intimately than just a short vacation.”
“I can get creative about taking care of my life stuff, like laundry, mail, grocery shopping and showers.”
“I love having friends and work colleagues all over the country.”
“Learning new things and taking on new roles doesn’t rattle me, so long as I have the support of good trainers and supervisors.”
“I’d finally like the chance to simply do my job, punch out, and not think about work all the time.”
“If something needs to be done, I’m gonna do it.”
“I’d love to live close to the places everyone goes to on vacation, and help them enjoy it.”
“I don’t usually keep traditional work hours, I’d rather keep my own and get the work done when it needs to be.”
“I really feel like I could do my work from anywhere.”
If you agreed — or mostly agreed — with these statements, then working from the road might just be for you.
Another friend out’s job went online during the pandemic. She decided to never go back. She’s able to do her job, on her own time, while traveling and exploring in her RV with her retired partner. Sure: She needs a good Wi-Fi connection and a few daily hours of focused attention. But she’ll keep doing this, she says, until they make her go back into the office.
Everyone’s situation will be different, some people will need to work full-time to keep the health insurance and pay college tuition, while others may decide that they no longer want to maintain their former lifestyle. An RV lifestyle can be far less expensive than you’d expect, but it all depends on how you do it. (Stay tuned for more in our blog series on Cutting RV Travel Costs!)
Remote RV Job Opportunities
Consider this your new job board if you want to work from you RV! Just a few categories to get you daydreaming …
Seasonal jobs and side gigs are the name of the game if you seek to work full or part-time in beautiful parts of the country. From campgrounds, outdoor outfitters, state/national parks to retail stores, lodges, restaurants, and more.
Online jobs are plentiful both full or part-time. This type of work allows you to be wherever you want to be, so long as you have enough power and connectivity. Since the 2020 pandemic, this category has simply exploded!
Many careers offer traveling opportunities. While the medical field offers opportunities for traveling nurses, doctors, radiologists, and veterinarians, we’ve also met accountants, construction workers, financial advisors, videographers, graphic designers, occupational therapists, writers, sales people, photographers, and many others.
Work-trade opportunities abound in national/state parks, as well as through Workamping, organic farming, and various volunteer opportunities which cover your stay in exchange for a few days per week of work.
Starting your own mobile business. Millions of people have figured out how to do this while traveling – including ourselves with Freedom in a Can, LLC. We do writing, photography, videography, and seminars – all from the convenience of our camper, and all with solar power.
It’s not your resume, per se, but your abilities, skills, and previous experiences that make you such a great hire! Stay tuned: In the next article, we’ll break down how — and where — to find some of these cool jobs.
Want to learn more about working from the road? This article is part of our Working from the Road 101 series.
Looking forward to hitching up and hitting the road in your new RV? Well, safe to say, RV Towing 101 probably wasn’t covered the last time you took a DMV test. And yet the difference between driving a standard vehicle and driving while towing a trailer is significant. Very significant. And you won’t be able to enjoy that newly purchased RV trailerwithout understanding hitch types and ratings.
So, let’s get you hooked up with all the towing know-how you need. In this article, we’ll provide some pointers for the road, a few key hitch facts, and a breakdown of classes of hitch types and ratings. Additionally, we’ll provide follow-on articles (coming soon) on choosing the right hitch and common mistakes.
Some Considerations Before You Hit Road
Stopping distance is increased, perhaps doubled, at highway speeds.
Overall vehicle length is doubled, or more. You need more space in order to pull out into traffic, to merge, pass, to make a turn, and to maneuver in general.
Your total rig weight is much greater, adding more mass and momentum and less mobility in any defensive driving situation.
Following distance needs to be greater, perhaps more than twice your usual habit, because of everything above.
Remember, other drivers may not take your careful planning or weight distribution into consideration. This can become frustrating especially in heavy traffic, but keep in mind that you’re big. You’re visible. And you’re probably in someone’s way, so they’ll have to deal with you.
What to Know (About Your RV) Before You Tow
Your vehicle’s towing capacity. Can the vehicle you drive safely pull a trailer (fully loaded) and bring everything to a stop safely? A good rule of thumb is for the GTW (Gross Trailer Weight) to never exceed 80 percent of your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity.
Your vehicle’s max tongue weight (MTW). Can the rear axle of your vehicle handle the additional weight of the trailer that isn’t being carried by the trailer axles? Generally this is 10 to 15 percent of the total trailer weight.
Having your vehicle and camper evenly matched is incredibly important to safe towing. As you head to the campsite you may have brought extra things: coolers full of food, kids, pets, extra fuel, outdoor adventure toys, and more. All of these need to be considered so you won’t put excess wear and tear on your vehicle nor exceed the safety limits of your rig.
Understanding How Hitches Work
Most conventional trailers and campers use a ball hitch mechanism to connect. The ball hitch insert connects to the towing vehicle through a hitch receiver which is bolted/welded to the vehicle chassis below the bumper. Here’s a great article that dives deep into trailer hitches. Note: Bumper hitches are NOT recommended for safely towing and are illegal in California.
The trailer has a hitch coupler that drops down over the ball when the coupler handle is in the open position. When closed, it brings a locking device (underjaw) up into position under the lower section of the ball. This prevents the hitch coupler from bouncing off the ball hitch while towing. The handle can be locked into position with either a pin or a standard lock.
Classes of Hitch Types and Ratings
Class I Hitch
This is the perfect hitch for lightweight loads like bike racks, cargo carriers, or very small trailers, and works with smaller vehicles.
GTW (1,000 to 2,000 pounds); MTW (100 to 200 pounds); Receiver Size 1¼ inch
Class I hitch receivers have a tab so that you can only use a Class I hitch accessory with this receiver. Since Class II hitches have the same receiver size, this is necessary so that you don’t unintentionally overload the receiver.
Class II Hitch
Heavier duty than Class I, these are still paired with smaller vehicles, but can accept heavier loads.
GTW (2,000 to 3,000 pounds); MTW (200 to 300 pounds); Receiver Size 1¼ inch
Class II can accept Class I hitch accessories.
Class III Hitch
Most traditional travel trailers will fall into this class, it is the most common hitch class across all towing vehicles because of the weight capacity range.
GTW (3,500 to 8,000 pounds); MTW (300 to 800 pounds); Receiver Size 2 inch
Typical vehicles include full-sized sedans, minivans, SUVs, and trucks.
Class IV Hitch
A much heavier duty load rating than Class III, but retains the 2-inch by 2-inch receiver.
GTW (5,000 to 12,000 pounds); MTW (500 to 1,200 pounds); Receiver Size 2 inch
Typical vehicles include large SUVs and trucks.
Class V Hitch
The biggest hitch type which is typically welded directly to the vehicle’s frame and offers a very large receiver. Intended to pull the heaviest loads like toy haulers, horse trailers, etc. An adapter can also help you insert Class IV (and lower) accessories into a Class V hitch receiver.
GTW (10,000 to 25,000 pounds); MTW (1,000 to 2,500 pounds); Receiver Size 2 ½ to 3 inch
Typical vehicles include large trucks with massive towing capacity.
Next up, we’ll talk about how to interpret your vehicle’s ratings, what sway hitches and drop hitches are all about — and the pros and cons of a fifth wheel trailer.
Eager to learn more about hitches? That’s very wise. Read more from our RV Tow Hitches 101 series.
Ask ten different people their favorite RV destination, and you’ll likely get ten different answers. But what if you had to choose just one? There’s a lot to consider when it comes to picking the absolute, definitive best RV city in the U.S. — and we’ve got the perfect answer that ticks all the boxes.
The number-one criterion for our number-one RV city is that it has to have something for everyone. One family’s Shangri-La might be another family’s dusty city in the mountains. Las Vegas, for example, is a world-renowned hotspot but has only one thing going for it: a big party vibe. Similarly, the Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders; but if you’re not into nature, you just ain’t gonna get it.
Our pick for RV City U.S.A. will also have to satisfy the three As: Affordable, as the RV lifestyle at its best is accessible to all; quintessentially American, because, well, U.S.A. is right there in the name; and, uh, “At least a little bit driveable,” because while Manhattan is the greatest city in the world, it’s hard enough to walk through, never mind drive. That’s how we arrived at…
Washington, D.C. is RV City U.S.A. — and Here’s Why
Washington, D.C., has everything you could possibly want in an RV city (with one exception that we’ll address). It’s one of the most affordable big cities to visit in the world, because it has an almost endless list of free activities, including world-class museums, monuments, and national parks. And it boasts a spectacular array of entertainment — ranging from the family-friendly and cheap to the grown-up and fancy. It has dining. Pro sports. Concerts. Nature. Art. Science. It has impressive architecture and art. And there’s definitely no place more American.
The one thing it doesn’t have is a convenient location. For West Coasters, you’re looking at a four-day haul assuming ten hours of daily driving. Still, it’s not not doable. It’s a city that every American should visit at least once in their life and it’s well worth the trek. Plus, the single biggest reason not to visit — the enormous cost to stay there — is mitigated for the RVer.
So there’s just no way around it: Washington, D.C., is RV City U.S.A.
High Cost of Living, Low Cost to Visit
One of the biggest knocks on D.C. as a city is its high cost, which is undeniable. Rent is ridiculous, mortgages outrageous, and hotels increasingly ludicrous. While RV parks might also skew expensive, they’re a fraction of the cost of hotels.
And D.C. is very doable on a budget. Each of the Smithsonian Museums in the D.C. area boasts world-class exhibits, and every one of them is free. Monuments are likewise free to visit, and many boast a jam-packed schedule of events. And D.C. is one of the most greenery-filled big cities in the world, with plenty of natural beauty on display everywhere you look.
Getting Around
To qualify as RV City U.S.A., D.C. has to be RV-friendly, of course; and it hits the mark, well, just about. Cherry Hill Park is a great option, with plenty of room, great amenities, and perfectly suited to trips into the City. There are plenty of options within an hour’s drive, from the Capitol KOA just outside the city limits on the northeast side, to the Greenbelt Park campground inside it, or Louise F. Cosca Regional Park just outside of Alexandria. And if you’re in a smaller rig, there are overnight parking options in the city too, like the oversized parking lot at Union City (as always, check local regulations before you arrive).
You’ll want to avoid the office rush, with D.C. boasting some famously bad commuter traffic. But in off-peak hours, and with many attractions outside of the most congested areas, getting around is straightforward, if not exactly a breeze.
Still, it’s worth considering the strength of a smaller RV for trips like these. For a recommendation, check out our review of the Grech RV Strada-ion Lounge, or take a peek at our Class Bs for sale. Class Bs shine in this environment, where their nimble driving and their ability to fit into regular parking spaces makes getting around town much more manageable.
RV City U.S.A.
Washington, D.C., is the ultimate American destination. It’s packed with monuments and museums centered around our nation’s cultural heritage and scientific discoveries. It’s filled with politicians, sure, but don’t hold that against it, because it also overflows with natural beauty. Altogether it is the perfect representative of the very best that RVing in the United States of America has to offer. And that’s what makes it RV City U.S.A.
The Prime Time RV Sanibel 3952FBWB fifth wheel is an enormous fifth wheel that is very well suited to larger families. By design, it is packed with some truly unusual features to accommodate lots of people.
For starters, the Sanibel 3952FBWB’s floorplan is like nothing I’ve seen before, and I imagine it would serve a family quite well, including families who take to the road full-time. While some RVs are more price-focused, the Prime Time RV Sanibel 3952FBWB has different focus: delivering premium features and build quality. Speaking with Spencer from Prime Time RV, he noted that the aluminum structure under the trailer is fully welded rather than spot welded, a common industry practice. This is part of what the company calls their Eternabond build. (Not to be confused with Eternabond tape, a common product used in RVs.)
Other build quality features include a PVC roof with a lifetime guarantee and a Dexter EZ Flex suspension system (something I really liked). This suspension system helps to minimize shocks transmitted into the trailer itself, which can reduce wear over the long haul. It also rides on Hankook Vantra trailer tires — not the usual off-brand tire. Further, there’s a tire pressure monitoring system included, which I feel is an important safety detail. Stacking these up, you get an idea what the Sanibel 3952FBWB is about — even before you step inside.
At a Glance: Sanibel 3952FBWB
Without question this RV gets five stars in my book — for a number of reasons. The build quality and features are there. But this also really scores on the areas they focused on which is the upper bunk room with the office and the lower bedroom and living space. This will absolutely not be the fifth wheel for everybody but, for those who might be able to take advantage of this unique floor plan, it’s going to be a home run.
Check the Specs
Sleeping capacity: 8
Hitch weight: 2,362 pounds
UVW: 12, 875 pounds
CCC: 3,487 pounds.
Exterior length: 46 feet 2 inches
Exterior height 13 feet 1 inch
Exterior width: 8 feet 4 inches
Fresh/Gray/Black: 54/78/78 gallons
Awnings: 12 feet and 18 feet
Benefits
Rare combo of sleeping space (8) and living space
High build quality and premium features
Challenges
Long, large, and heavy fifth wheel for towing
High occupancy could strain water capacity off-grid
Best For
Use as a home base for group/family adventures
Large full-time families looking for a major upgrade
The RV Trader Process
RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.
The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.
So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Prime Time RV Sanibel 3952FBWB.
Sleeping Space
Many bunkhouse RVs — including most of the larger fifth wheels that I’ve seen — put the bunk room in the back. And honestly, this creates a second-class type of feel to them. Not that they’re bad, but the occupants of the bunk room won’t be expecting room service to include caviar. In seriousness, it can make the person sleeping in the bunk space feel like an afterthought.
What you have here is different. The bunks are located over the pin box in the nose of this fifth wheel. There are four bunks on two levels in an L shape, along the road-side wall and nose cap of this rig. Below these is a storage space which would be great with totes. But there are even better surprises than that.
Behind the bunk is an actual proper desk with drawers. So, if you are home schooling (or just need a place to get some RV reviews written), this would be a good place to do so. There’s also a camp-side slide room with a wall of drawers and cabinets and a center cutout that leaves space for a TV. I was told that this space was really designed to support a video game station.
The whole upstairs really has a very spacious feel. With the bunks in an “L” shape you could easily accommodate even taller adults on two of the bunks so it may not be limited to just youthful travelers. In fact, if you have two younger travelers and, perhaps, grandparents along for the journey this space could easily accommodate them.
Don’t Forget Who Pays the Bills
While the upstairs bunk room is unlike anything I’ve seen before the main bedroom in this fifth wheel is very much like a hotel suite. Those who drive the truck that pulls this rig and pay the bills that support this rig are treated to a very nice space indeed.
There’s a large 72-inch by 80-inch king- bed in a slide room which faces a closet with a good number of drawers and hanging space.
The upstairs bunk room is just special. It features sleeping for four and a desk with drawers.
Another angle here of the bunk room where you can see the TV and more storage on the camp side.
The master bedroom with the king-size bed impresses.
Bathroom
The very back of this rig harbors a rather substantial bathroom. There’s a vanity that features two vessel-style sinks. There’s a large shower. And the space around the porcelain foot-flush toilet is almost big enough to hold a small dance party. (Not that you’d want to, mind you, but you could.) There’s also a linen closet back here which is outfitted with hook-ups for a stackable washer and dryer.
On the opposite side of the cabin, in the bunk area, there’s also a half bath up with a sink and porcelain foot flush toilet.
Double vanities are just one distinct perk of this bathroom setup. Cabinet storage next to the toilet is certainly another.
A look at the large, luxurious shower.
Again, back to talking about how great the bunk room area is. It even has a half bath.
Living Area
As unusual as the rest of this floorplan is, you might think that the main living space would stay traditional. But the Sanibel 3952FBWB is keeps it untraditional trend going. Along the camp side is a large slide room with a long sofa that is comprised of five reclining positions. No, seriously. I said five. I meant it.
Also, in the middle of this whole space is an island. And that island features a flip-up countertop on the camp side — with four bar-style seats. Why is this so pleasantly unusual? Typically, RVs with lots of sleeping space don’t always have a seat for everyone. The Sanibel 3952FBWB has more than enough places to sit.
The Sanibel 3952FBWB is full of wow moments. The living area is no exception — especially when you realize that the sofa includes five recliners.
Not only can the Sanibel 3952FBWB sleep a big group, it can also seat them (notice the four stools around the island) and feed them (the galley is loaded with deluxe appliances).
Kitchen
Someone who enjoys cooking will likely enjoy doing so here with a very large four-burner range and a huge oven. To heat things up, there’s also a large residential-style microwave overhead. To keep things chilled, there’s a very capable 16-cubic-foot, 12-volt refrigerator. And to keep things stored, there’s also a decent pantry.
Counter space is not only good on the island, but there’s also a coffee bar near the entrance. I was told that Prime Time RV, which makes the Sanibel line, hired a professional interior designer to give their products a nicer look. All I can say is that based on just this model, I think she did a great job. I don’t normally like to comment on style, but this model really is attractive.
Lots of counter space. A four-burner stove. A very large oven and massive microwave. You can feed the folks here.
A look inside the Sanibel 3952’s fridge.
Four-Season Capabilities
I’m not sure that a fifth wheel this large is going to be doing a lot of boondocking. Sure, it provides a lot of sleeping capacity, but I would imagine you could blow through the 54-gallon freshwater tank in no time. (Particularly if some of the occupants are teenagers.)
But if you have hook-ups, you could comfortably spend time in some pretty chilly places with this. The underbelly of this camper is enclosed and heated. Plus there are 12-volt heating pads on all the tanks. Further, I was told that forthcoming models will even have heated elbows on the tanks, and the knife valves for the holding tanks are also enclosed in the underbelly.
Storage Space
Like most fifth wheels this has a good-sized storage bay at the front and in a large passthrough. As mentioned earlier, inside in that unusual bunk room there is a slide room that has cabinets and drawers for storage plus there are some drawers in the desk as well. But the space under the lower bunks could easily be used for totes and storage and there is a lot of space underneath there. Few RVs with bunks are going to provide that much capability for stuff.
On the main deck, the kitchen has a large pantry, and there is room for stuff on either side of the stove in closets and there are more drawers and cabinets under the counter in the island. There’s even a closet in the downstairs main bedroom plus storage in the bathroom. Storage is absolutely a strong suit in this RV.
A peek inside the master bedroom closet.
This linen closet in the bathroom comes with hook-ups for a stackable washer and dryer.
Even a pantry in the kitchen. Note also the nice little coffee bar to the right. (Not a storage thing — just wanted you to notice.)
Cargo space in the front is pass-through.
Closing Notes on the Sanibel 3952FBWB
This is one of the best bunkhouse floorplans I’ve come across, and I’ve seen a lot of RVs. I could see this easily accommodating a family who live full-time on the road giving the younger members of the family a great space to do their homework — but also get some time away from homework.
The parents, too, get an almost spa-like feel to their space. And the joint space is very well suited for everyone to come together and enjoy a meal prepared in a very capable kitchen.
There are often times I see RVs where they’re intended for large groups but miss the mark in something pretty critical. This is not one of those at all.
However, it’s worth noting that at 46 feet 2 inches in length and with a dry weight of 12,875 pounds, this is not an RV to be taken lightly. Accommodating something this large and heavy is going to take an above-average amount of forethought.
Still, quite honestly, if you park this at a base camp that can accommodate very large rigs, you now have a really nice home base from which to plan your adventures. With all the seating and desk space in here there’s certainly a place to make those plans. It’s pretty rare that I find an RV where there’s no big negative, so this one gets both thumbs up from me.
New Winnebago owners will now have all the capabilities of their connected home in their RV, no matter where their adventures take them. The legacy RV manufacturer has launched Winnebago Connect, offering full control integration from the palm of travelers’ hands.
Proactive Automations Improve Energy Usage, Comfort, Safety
The system goes beyond monitoring the RV by integrating smart technologies into one smartphone application. One of the key advantages of Winnebago Connect is the ability to manage energy usage and optimize off-grid power when boondocking. The system can adjust power usage and systems to maximize consumption while keeping everyone in the RV comfortable.
But it’s not just power usage that can be controlled through Winnebago Connect. When RV temperatures go above a certain range, the system can automatically open vents to allow fresh air in before turning to the air conditioning system. If wind gusts get to a hazardous level, the system will automatically retract awnings to prevent damage to the RV. And for those who travel with pets, Connect will provide push notifications to let them know when conditions get too hot or cold for their four-legged friends, allowing users to adjust from their phone.
Should something go wrong with the RV while on the road, Winnebago Connect can also help with troubleshooting and diagnosis. Customer care agents can connect remotely to review the RV’s current status to determine what issues owners could be facing.
“Winnebago Connect is game-changing technology for the RV industry because it transforms how customers can engage with their motorhome, and how Winnebago can respond to user needs through intelligent software,” Kim Weckert, vice president of digital transformation for Winnebago, said in its press release. “Winnebago Connect is sure to create more opportunities for new and long-time RVers alike to experience the outdoors exactly as they wish.”
Availability and Cost
Winnebago Connect is available on the 2025 Winnebago View and Navion 24T floorplans, expanding to other models in the years to come. The system comes with three subscription tiers, based on the level of control RV owners want. The basic option comes with pre-trip checklists and power management systems. The Premium plan at $10 per month allows monitoring and control anywhere campers have a cellphone signal. For $99 per month, owners can add 10G wireless connectivity, turning their RV into a mobile hotspot perfect for e-mail, internet browsing, and social media.
Travelers who are looking to break away from the RV park and camp off the grid have a new ultra-lightweight trailer option. Gulf Stream Coach is introducing the Trail Boss 140BH, a rugged new trailer option the manufacturer says blends “comfort, durability, and affordability.”
Off-Grid Appliances and Features Come Standard
Arguably, the most impressive part of the ultra-lightweight trailer is the off-grid package that comes standard in the trailer. Powered in part by a solar energy system, an off-grid refrigerator, gas heater and water heater, outdoor shower, cooktop, microwave, and air conditioning are all built in without sacrificing floor space.
The interior floor plan includes a U-shaped dinette section that can convert to beds at night, a TV mount near the wall air conditioning unit, and outdoor storage at the end of the trailer. It also features two bunk beds at the top, comfortably sleeping four people. Solid-step entry makes it easy to get in and out of the trailer, allowing travelers to have all the amenities of home in a small, easy-to-tow package.
Compact, Lightweight, and Versatile
With extra ground clearance and a total weight of just 2,510 pounds, the latest edition of the Trail Boss 140BH is ready for off-road adventures. Because of its size and weight, RVers with many different types of vehicles can go on off-grid adventures with this versatile trailer.
“Our goal with the Trail Boss 140BH was to make it easy for outdoor enthusiasts to discover, explore, and escape,” Phil Sarvari, president of Gulf Stream Coach, said in the press release. “We’ve created a trailer that is budget-friendly, without compromising on features or quality.”
The Trail Boss 140BH has an MSRP around $24,600. You can shop for this off-grid trailer on RV Trader.
Travelers looking for an activity hub in the “Moab of Montana” will soon have a new campground to visit. Bozeman CBS affiliate KZBK 7 reports the Pipestone RV Park is working through its finishing touches, with a scheduled opening date of September 2024.
The new RV campground was the brainchild of local resident Keith Curtis, who has vacationed in the Pipestone region for over 15 years. Although the area was popular with nature lovers for the unique rock formations, it was difficult to navigate for those who travel the country in RVs.
Pipestone RV Park Slated for 80 Full Hookups, Lounge, and Other Amenities
Keith and his partners have been working on developing the park for nearly six years. Once the new park opens, it will offer 80 RV spots with full power, water, and sewer hookups, alongside 31 cabin and tent sites. Amenities at opening will include a check-in building, general store, lounge, three shower houses, and around 20 bathrooms. Future plans include pickleball courts, horseshoe pits, and a family playground.
Locals who have seen the development come together say the RV park will be a welcome addition to the community and offer campers a place to come and enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area. From off-road vehicles to hiking, those who frequent Pipestone say the park will give travelers even more options to enjoy nature’s beauty.
“What makes Pipestone so special is its unique rock formations,” Keith told KZBK. “You have the ringing rocks. Then you have areas like the Flintstone house. And you have Delmoe Lake up here too, so you have some bodies of water. And not to mention a huge network of trails”.
Today’s RV review is of the 2024 Forest River IBEX RV Suite RVS1. I would imagine that followers of Forest River’s relatively new IBEX brand appreciate the way IBEX products enable more adventurous travel with the offerings being smaller and shod with more off-road tires. Last year’s new Beast Mode suspension option further reinforced that image with a very, very solid off-load suspension system courtesy of Lippert’s Curt brand as an option.
In fact, RV family Jason and Abbey Epperson of RVMiles took their own IBEX with this suspension up to Alaska and found it to be quite capable. The brand also offers an off-grid power package that features plenty of solar and lithium battery power, further reinforcing the overlanding lifestyle.
All this is to invite you to forget all that with IBEX’s new line, the RV Suite. Comprised of three models you could almost call these park model trailers — but with a twist. A big twist.
At a Glance: IBEX RV Suite RVS1
What is the IBEX RV Suite? The IBEX RV Suite line is a completely different kind of offering from the brand. These high-content travel trailers are really more suited to be taken somewhere where they’re going to spend much of their time much like larger park model trailers. But these are smaller and nimbler. The model I saw is the RVS1 which measures 32 feet 6 inches in length.
Overall, I give this RV a four out of five stars. This is not the RV for everybody, so my rating is meant relevant to who might consider this. There is so much right with this rig but know that you’ll have to convert the bed every night. Also, I love technology, but these voice- activated devices hardwired into an RV are already frustrating and won’t be updated like something like Siri or Alexa.
Check the Specs
Sleeping capacity: 3
Hitch weight: 790 pounds
UVW: 7,380 pounds
CCC: 2,210 pounds
Exterior length: 32 feet 6 inches
Exterior height 11 feet 3 inches
Exterior width: 8 feet 5 inches
Fresh/Gray/Black: 90/60/30 gallons
Benefits
Spectacular views from the windows and porch
Very social set up with smart features, modern décor
Challenges
Better suited for on-grid than off-grid living (requires 50-amp)
Converting the bed every night, limited sleep space
Best For
Use as a vacation home on a scenic property
Park model setups versus nomadic travel
The RV Trader Process
RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.
The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with an honest and unbiased evaluations. And that’s where I come in. I’m Tony Barthel, RV expert and enthusiast. I provide an honest look at RVs from RV industry insider perspective. That way, you can learn the good, the bad, and the intriguing about any RVs I review. I inspect each RV with the buyer’s perspective at the forefront. And I always evaluate those six key areas that buyers have told us that they have in mind.
So, that said, let’s take a closer look at the 2024 Forest River IBEX RV Suite RVS1.
Sleeping Space
The IBEX RV Suite RSV1 has lots of the makings of a very social RV. More on that when we get to the living area. But when it’s time to kick the revelers out and enjoy some rack time, the entire side wall folds down. And that’s your king-size bed. So, this back bedroom/living room/party palace offers multiple uses. (I guess that makes it a multipurpose room.) By day, there is a table that can flip up and offers a counter- or bar-height surface. Put the table down against the back wall and you’ll have a large open air – perhaps for holding dance parties. Oh, or how about karaoke in the campground?
In the lounge, what you might assume is simply a couch is also an additional sleeping area. With the right bedding this, too, can be a place for additional guests to sleep, but probably only one adult could fit there comfortably.
The rear multipurpose room can be just a large open space. Or a place for remote work. Note the Flip-up table in the center of the wall.
Speaking of that wall, it descends to reveal a king Murphy-style bed.
Bathroom
The front of the trailer features a very spacious bathroom with two sinks and a large walk-in shower. There is a closet here which reveals a washer-dryer combo — something you’d really like if you were living in this, or offering it as a vacation home on your property.
A rather lavish bathroom at the front of the cabin.
Vessel-style dual sinks in the bathroom are a beautiful touch. Note also the rustic, outdoorsy wallpaper.
A combo washer-dryer is placed opposite to the vanity
This large, walk-in shower is a highlight.
Living Area
Something really unusual in the RV industry is that this model doesn’t have a slide room, again more common in a tiny house. So, the main living space features your kitchen on one side and a lounge on the other.
Since we’re in the main living space, let’s take a closer look at that lounge. Under the head of the couch is a cushion system that pops out and up so now you’ve got an “L” shaped seating arrangement. Another ottoman-style cushion awaits at the lower end of this thing and that, too, pops up so you can go from a single lounge to something that can accommodate a number of people.
This lounge also has the ability to sort of kick up the center cushion so that it becomes almost a fainting couch. (You know, in case you get the vapors.) But it’s a comfortable place to sit in this position.
The lounge in the Ibex RV Suite RVS1 can also be a day bed with a flip-up backrest. The bedroom/multipurpose room is just the right.
Here’s the lounge sofa open and extended to provide more seating. However, you can probably tell, it can only sleep one adult.
Onto the Porch
From this space, there is a sliding glass door that takes-up the entire rear of the trailer and leads to a substantial metal back porch. That porch is surrounded by metal a railing with a gate on the camp side and steps down to adventure.
There is also a barbecue grill and wooden table that can be mounted to the receiver hitch on the back of this trailer and that’s the one place you’ll find propane. The barbecue grill is powered by those one-pound propane bottles that can’t be recycled, unfortunately.
The back porch can also tote cargo with cargo tie-downs included in the Ibex RV Suite RVS1.
Kitchen
The kitchen in Forest River’s IBEX RV Suite RVS1 consists of a two-burner induction cook top with a convection microwave beneath it. A single-bowl stainless steel sink with restaurant-style faucet is for cleanup, and the refrigerator is a vintage-style 12-volt unit.
That was a surprise indeed as the rest of this interior has a very modern look with dark green cabinets and very clean, modern styling. That refrigerator’s style runs a little counter to this with its 1950s styling.
A good look at the kitchen. In the IBEX RV Suite RVS1, everything is unquestionably stylish, but the fridge is a little more retro than the rest of the modern decor.
Another magnificent angle of the kitchen.
Four-Season Capabilities
The shape of the trailer is much like the tiny houses that are in vogue at the moment, which is intentional. While the IBEX line might be associated with off-grid living this is more of an on-grid offering. All the functions inside the trailer are electrical from cooking to heating. This trailer requires a 50-amp service and is not set-up to operate on solar or other off-grid systems.
Even the heating in this trailer is electric only with two small furnaces at each end, one in the bathroom and one in the bedroom. The ducted air conditioner features a heat strip which provides warmth as well, but there is no propane furnace.
In fact, there is almost no propane whatsoever. This inaugural model has some interesting innovations in it and really is well-suited (forgive the pun) to taking on the role of a tiny house instead of being an RV.
There are two small electric heaters plus a heat function on the AC.
Storage Space
There is more storage in this RV than you might suspect. While this doesn’t have a traditional pass-through compartment like many towable RVs, there is the metal locker on the tongue. Considering that this is likely not going to be traveling, but rather parked in a location for extended periods of time, that should prove sufficient.
Inside there are a lot of drawers and cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen. There may be enough there that you bring what you need to bring and still find an empty cabinet or drawer left. Unless you’re related to my family.
Somewhere you might not expect to find a place for your stuff is under the couch but if you use this in multiple seasons that could be a good way to keep bulkier winter outfits when the weather isn’t right to wear those.
Hanging storage between the kitchen and bathroom in the Ibex RV Suite RVS1 is just one example of the surprising amount of storage in this model.
Some Smart Talk Features
If you have one of those personal digital assistants that live in your phone, you are probably already used to cursing that thing. Now there’s another one for you to say unkind things to as this has a new item from WFCO where you can ask for things by saying “Hey Power Pro.”
This trailer voice assistant can control lighting and report on tank levels – that sort of thing. At this point the people at IBEX told me they didn’t want it controlling the temperature in the rig, but this is one of my favorite features with the voice assistant I’ve set up in my house. I tried it out in this example, and it seemed to recognize my requests.
The control center with TV and electric fireplace plus voice command system in the Ibex RV Suite RVS1.
The Ibex RV Suite RVS1 features a voice command system for some functions.
Closing Notes on the IBEX RV Suite RVS1
This is certainly an unusual offering from the IBEX line. Like an RV, it does have holding tanks, so you could use it as a travel trailer. The model I saw had a cover in place for the front window when this unit is being transported, but this can also be removed once you get to where you’re getting to. That’s a good thing.
While this could be used like a normal travel trailer, where I see this working well is with a property in the mountains or by a lake or something like that and then being a second home. When it’s time to close down for the season, it could simply be towed back to storage or something and returned once the weather changes to more tolerable conditions.
In support of that this trailer has a tremendous number of windows so it would be particularly nice in a place with a beautiful view. But remember it does require a 50-amp service which is something to consider if you’ve got a piece of land in a remote place.
Campers looking for a family-friendly getaway for all ages should be on the lookout for a Jellystone Park RV center. In the 2024 RV campground edition of USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards, three Jellystone Park locations made the list, with the highest only coming in second to a getaway in California.
Jellystone Park Pelahatchie, MS
Highest among the group in the second position is the Jellystone Park Pelahatchie in Pelahatchie, Mississippi. Located 30 miles east of the state’s capital, the RV park is open year-round and features sites both inland and lakeside. But it’s not just the amazing lakeside views that keep families coming back. Guests have full access to fishing and minigolf all season long, as well as a swimming pool and splashpad to play in during the summer months.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Mill Run, PA
Coming in fourth is Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Mill Run, featuring over 80 RV campsites with full hookups. Campers of all ages can enjoy a range of activities, from mini-golf and a game room to full-size paintball and laser tag fields. Be sure to plan your trip around the summer months, as many of the attractions are only open between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
North Texas Jellystone Park, Burleson, TX
The final Jellystone RV park, in sixth place, is the North Texas Jellystone Park in Burleson, Texas, just outside the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The park features both an indoor and outdoor pool, water park, laser tag center, and scheduled theme activities for everyone to join in on the fun. Although many of the activities are within walking distance, golf cart rentals are available to explore the expansive park.
Other RV Parks on USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards List
Taking the top spot in the 10Best Readers Choice Awards among RV parks is the Inn Town Campground in Nevada City, California. Located between the South Yuba River State Park and Tahoe National Forest, the small resort only has 15 RV spots with full hookups. Beyond camping, the site offers outdoor movie nights, and is within walking distance of a historic Chinese cemetery and the Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum.
Other award-winning RV parks include the Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country resort outside of San Antonio; Spacious Skies Campgrounds in Littleton, Massachusetts; and the Fernwood Resort in Big Sur, California.
New technology, floor plans, and an improved MyAirstream app are all part of Airstream’s 2025 model year debut. the Ohio-based travel trailer manufacturer has announced.
2025 Trade Wind: New Twin-Bed Floor Plan
First up is the new floor plan available for the Airstream 23FB Trade Wind. The 23-foot trailer can now be configured with two twin beds or a single queen bed, along with a dinette that can be converted to additional sleeping space when needed.
The Trade Wind is the most off-grid-capable of the model lineup, with three chassis-integrated lithium Battle Born batteries providing a power bank of 810 amp-hours, over four times the capacity of other Airstream models. Solar panels installed on the Trade Wind helps to keep the batteries powered. When boondocking, the trailer comes equipped with a 3000-watt combined inverter that can power both a convection microwave and a full-power air conditioner. For those who prefer to go completely off the grid, an optional composting toilet can be installed.
2025 Classic: Towing Assist, New Standard Entertainment Tech
The Classic line of Airstream trailers are also getting a set of upgrades. With the 2025 model year, new trailers can be installed with the Dexter Tow Assist powered by Bosch, a premium towing package that includes a new anti-lock brake system and sway mitigation system. The components work together to reduce sway, improve drivability, and add stopping power.
For those looking to upgrade their comfort, the Airstream Classic 33FB now comes with new standard amenities. Each new trailer comes with a built-in flatscreen TV combined with a premium Klipsch four-speaker sound system. With Bluetooth streaming capability, travelers can have all of the amenities of home no matter where they go.
MyAirstream: Next-Generation Smart Control
Finally, the company is adding even more capability to their smartphone application. 2025 Classic models will feature MyAirstream, which replaces Smart Control as the connected vehicle platform and offers additional functionality. Using the system, travelers can monitor and control many aspects of their trailer, including tank levels, air conditioning, and lighting. The app can also help travelers find their nearest Airstream dealer for maintenance and repairs, along with over 40,000 camping-focused points of interest, including campgrounds, dump points, and RV-friendly overnight parking.
Plumbing and Layout Changes for 2025 Bambi, Caravel, Globetrotter, Basecamp
Other upgrades include moving the fresh water tank and electrical center in the Bambi and Caravel trailers to allow for more storage space under the bed, a recirculating water heater in the Globetrotter, and an improved shower pan that improves water shed in the Basecamp trailers.
Without question this RV gets five stars in my book — for a number of reasons. The build quality and features are there. But this also really scores on the areas they focused on which is the upper bunk room with the office and the lower bedroom and living space. This will absolutely not be the fifth wheel for everybody but, for those who might be able to take advantage of this unique floor plan, it’s going to be a home run.
What is the IBEX RV Suite? The 
