Where To Park Your RV In Washington, D.C.

• • Proximity to the city — where is your campsite located?
  • Proximity to activities — what kind of things do you want to do?
  • What kind RV or camper do you have? How big is your RV rental or tow vehicle?

My RV Park Of Choice: Cherry Hill Park

More RV Campgrounds Near Washington, D.C.

Getting To Washington, D.C.

Getting Around Downtown D.C.

Things To Do In Washington, D.C.

1. National Mall
2. Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
3. National Zoo
4. The White House
5. National Gallery of Art

Things To Do In The Washington, D.C. Area

1. The National Harbor

2. Mount Vernon

3. Old Town

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The post An RVer’s Guide To Washington, D.C. appeared first on Campanda News.

Hiking On RV Trips

Hiking: How It Used To Be

A Brave New World

Internet Resources For Hikers

Some other great internet resources I regularly use are:

• • www.summitpost.org | A user-driven website with information on many mountain hikes including descriptions, maps, directions, photos, trip reports and a climber’s log.

• www.outdoorproject.com | A website of curated outdoor activities searchable by location. Reports include hike overviews, photos, current weather, driving directions and field guide printables.

Mobile Phone Apps For Hikers

Here are some hiking apps I really like:

• • AllTrails – a user-driven free app with over 50,000 trails curated by over 4 million users. Use your phone’s location to find hikes near you (there were 250 trails near me). Each hike includes topo maps, elevation profiles, photos, reviews and comments. A premium paid edition provides additional features.

• • Hiking Project – a user-driven free app from outdoor retailer REI Co-Op. It includes over 37,000 trails. You can input your location to find hikes near you. Each hike includes topo maps, elevation profiles, step-by-step trail gradients, photos, reviews, comments and nearby trails.REI also has a companion app for hiking within national parks and monuments, REI National Parks, with over 5,000 hikes.

• ViewRanger – a free app which uses maps from major outdoor brands, tourism agencies and users. It includes many of the same features as the above apps. What makes this app unique is that it has an augmented reality feature called Skyline that uses your camera phone to label geographic features while on your hike. Very cool!

Pinterest For Hikers

Twitter & Instagram For Hikers

Youtube For Hikers

Facebook For Hikers

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The post How To Find Your Next Great Hike appeared first on Campanda News.

RV trip planning can be fun and exciting. It can also be overwhelming. What should you pack, where should you go, what route should you take? Questions like these are just the beginning of what can feel like a daunting set of tasks. Luckily it’s Pinterest to the rescue!

Keep reading to find out how Pinterest could make your next RV rental even better.

What is Pinterest?

When Pinterest came onto the scene back in 2010, people used it to search for and save (“pin”) things like recipes and wedding dresses. If you loved scrapbooking then you were guaranteed to love Pinterest even more. It’s like a massive, online vision board with infinite possibilities of ideas.

If you haven’t logged in to Pinterest in a while (or ever) then you might be puzzled when I say that it’s also an amazing tool to plan road trips and vacations. It’s not just for cupcakes anymore!

When you click on a pin it will take you to the source of the content, like a website, where you can get more information.

Why Pinterest Is A Great Tool

Over the years Pinterest has evolved into a search engine. A search engine helps you locate information on the internet. Google is what everyone thinks of as the go-to search engine. But Pinterest is a powerful search engine too, which surprises people because they think it’s a social media platform like Facebook. It isn’t, and that distinction is important for a couple for reasons.

For consumers (aka RVers browsing the internet), it’s a place where you can search and find information. For example, let’s say you want to travel to Utah and see national parks. If you type “Utah National Parks,” you’ll to find a wealth of information.

For content creators (bloggers, companies, etc.) it’s a useful platform to share your content and drive traffic back to your site. Let’s say you’re a travel blogger who writes articles about national parks: If you write one about Utah and make a great visual pin, there’s a good chance that your pin (and therefore your article) could be found in a search.

How To Use Pinterest To Plan An RV Trip

So how exactly do you use Pinterest to plan a vacation? To get started, you’ll need set up a profile on Pinterest. This will enable you to set up “boards” where you can organize all the pins you collect. Think of boards like file folders or different pages in a scrapbook, each with its own category.

Here’s how a board works: Using the Utah national parks example, you would create a board called “Utah Travel Board.” Then, you’d search for terms that fit the type of trip you’re planning, such as:

• Utah National Parks
• Utah driving routes
• Hiking in Utah
• Utah RV Parks

After you’ve collected a bunch of images and resources about your destination, you can then search for other helpful information. For example, if you want ideas about what to pack, you could search for terms like “RV travel checklist,” “hiking gear” or “packing for RVing.”

You can even look for awesome camping recipes by searching terms like “RV recipes,” “camping recipes,” “food for camping” and so on.

As you discover new pins, you can keep adding them to your board. Over time you’ll collect a wide range of pins that you can refer to as you plan — all in one place!

(As a side note, Utah has some truly awesome National Parks. Check out this article for my favorite hikes while RVing, including Bryce Canyon in Utah.)

Using Pinterest Long-Term

You can also create multiple boards for different categories. For example, if you plan to take multiple trips, you could categorize your boards. This could mean one for each destination, or you could set up boards like this:

• North America Travel
• Route Planning
• RV Parks
• RV Gear
• RV Cooking & Recipes

This way, whenever you plan a new trip, you can consult your boards and look at the pins that relate to that trip. You can check out how I’ve organized my own RV Pinterest boards here.

Over time you’ll build a great resource for trip planning. Your account becomes like a resource library and you become a part of the Pinterest information-sharing community (you can also set your boards to “private” if you’re feeling secretive about your travel plans).

In short, Pinterest is a wonderful way to plan an RV trip. It’s easy to use and fun too! The next time you plan a trip, consider using Pinterest as a source of helpful information.

Already have a Pinterest full of road trip ideas? Hit the road in an RV rental from Campanda! Click the link below to search our selection of camper vans, motorhomes and trailers:

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If you already own an RV that’s sitting idle, rent it out! Campanda makes it easy to rent your RV. Click the link below to learn more:

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RVing In Hartford, Connecticut

Must-Eats In Hartford

Where To Stay In The Hartford Area

RVing In Salem, Massachusetts

Must-Eats In Salem

Where To Stay In Salem

RVing In The Finger Lakes, New York

Must-Eats In The Finger Lakes

Where To Stay In The Finger Lakes

RVing In The Thousand Islands, New York

Must-Eats In The Thousand Islands

Where To Stay In The Thousand Islands

RVing In Mystic, Connecticut

Must-Eats In Mystic

Where To Stay In Mystic

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The post RVing In The Northeast: Waterfalls And Whales And Witches, Oh My! appeared first on Campanda News.

RVing In Badlands National Park

Independence Day In Interior

Exploring Notch Trail & Minuteman Missile Historic Site

RVing In The Black Hills

Exploring Custer State Park

A Visit To Crazy Horse Memorial & Mount Rushmore

A Day In Sturgis and Deadwood

Hiking Black Elk Peak

7-Day Trip Itinerary

• • Day 1 — Start at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for its interpretive exhibits and video presentation. Then spend the day touring the Badlands Loop Road scenic drive (25 miles, one-way) and its numerous overlooks.

• • Day 2 — Visit nearby Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. Start at the visitor center to view exhibits. Continue 5 miles to Delta-01 Launch Control Facility for a ranger-guided tour (tickets required in advance; maximum tour size six people). Continue 10 miles to Delta-09 Launch Facility for a self-guided tour.

• Day 3 — Explore and have lunch in the small town of Interior near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Spend the afternoon hiking a series of short trails in the National Park — Door, Window and Notch Trails.

• • Day 4 — This is a travel day. Drive approximately 75 miles to accommodations in the Rapid City area.

• • Day 5 — Visit Custer State Park (30 miles from Rapid City). Drive along Wildlife Loop Road and Needles Highway. Visit nearby Crazy Horse Memorial, then finish the day at Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

• • Day 6 — Visit the town of Sturgis (28 miles from Rapid City), then continue to the historic mining town of Deadwood. Drive through Spearfish Canyon and stretch your legs with short hike to Bridal Veil Falls. Stop for dinner in the town of Spearfish on the way back to Rapid City.

• Day 7 — Drive to Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park (35 miles from Rapid City). Hike to summit of Black Elk Peak (allow 4 to 5 hours for the 7-mile round-trip hike).

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The post The Ultimate South Dakota RV Road Trip: Badlands, Bison & Black Hills appeared first on Campanda News.

There are over 417 areas in the National Parks System, covering more than 131,000 square miles, an astonishing array of ecosystems and millions of years of history. It’s been said that national parks are the best idea America ever had. And after a few days in a place like the Grand Canyon or a hike through the otherworldly landscapes of Bryce Canyon, it’s hard to disagree.

National Park Week runs from April 21st to April 29th this year. To celebrate, the National Parks Service has declared the 21st as a “fee-free” day for all 417 parks. Many parks are free to enter all year-round, but 118 waive their fees on select days only. It’s a great opportunity to visit an old favorite or explore a new park that’s been on your list.

We’ve put together a list of 50 incredible national parks that deserve a spot on your itinerary this April and beyond. Check out the awesome map we made, too! (All of the numbers on this list correspond to a park on the map.)

Keep reading to discover your next destination, whether you’re a backcountry camper, an RV owner or are planning to rent an RV on Campanda:

• National Parks On The West Coast
• National Parks In The Rockies
• National Parks In The Southwest
• National Parks In The Midwest
• National Parks In The South
• National Parks In The Northeast
• National Parks In Alaska & Hawaii
• Different Types Of National Parks

Note: Be sure to consult the NPS website for further information before planning your trip. Unless otherwise stated, the RV camping information below refers to NPS-operated campgrounds. You can visit Recreation.gov to make reservations where available.

National Parks On The West Coast

1. Olympic National Park | Washington

Nearly a million acres of stunning diversity and natural beauty make this sprawling park in northwestern Washington a must-visit for nature lovers.

Olympic National Park contains several distinct ecosystems, including rugged coastline, glacier-capped mountain peaks and lush temperate rainforests.

RV Camping In Olympic National Park:
Mostly first-come, first-served. Most campgrounds have sites for RVs under 21 feet; limited spaces for RVs up to 35 feet.

2. Mount Rainier National Park | Washington

It’s no surprise that Mount Rainier was one of the first national parks created. Reaching over 14,000 feet above sea level, the mountain (which is actually an active volcano) is an iconic part of the landscape.

Glaciated peaks, rivers, wildflower meadows, ancient forests and abundant wildlife await visitors.

RV Camping In Mount Rainier National Park:
Reservations available at some sites during season dates. RV limitations vary by campground, from 27 to 35 feet for motorhomes and 18 to 27 feet for trailers.

3. John Day Fossil Beds National Monument | Oregon

Over 40 million years of plant and animal evolution are preserved in the colorful rock formations of the John Day Fossil Beds.

There are three geographically distinct areas of the monument with rivers, semi-desert shrublands and towering cliffs. But the rainbow-colored Painted Hills are real stars of the show and the main draw for many visitors.

RV Camping In John Day Fossil Beds National Monument:
Camping of any kind is not permitted within the boundaries of the monument. But there are plenty of nearby campgrounds, some with accommodations for RVs up to 72 feet!

4. Crater Lake National Park | Oregon

Crater Lake is simply awe-inspiring. Situated in the caldera of a destroyed volcano, it’s the deepest lake in the United States and is remarkably pristine.

The deep blue water is beautiful all year round, but is especially dramatic against the snow.

RV Camping In Crater Lake National Park:
There is an RV-friendly campground within the park that takes reservations (except in June) for RVs up to 50 feet. Dispersed camping (aka boondocking) is permitted with certain restrictions.

5. Yosemite National Park | California

Sequoias, waterfalls and towering granite cliffs — Yosemite is home to some of America’s most iconic and recognizable landscapes.

Located in the Sierra Nevada of California, Yosemite is just over three hours from San Francisco, making it ideal for weekend warriors looking for a dose of fresh air and inspiring wilderness.

RV Camping In Yosemite National Park:
There are 10 campgrounds in the park that offer RV camping for vehicles and trailers of varying size (up to 40 feet for motorhomes and 35 feet for trailers, though these spaces are limited). Reservations are recommended.

6. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks | California

These two adjacent parks have been managed jointly since the 1940s and together are home to mountains, caves deep canyons, diverse wildlife and some of the world’s tallest trees. In fact, the largest tree in the world — named General Sherman — resides within Sequoia National Park and is estimated to be over 2,000 years old.

RV Camping In Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks:
There are 14 campgrounds within the parks, offering a mix of reservation-based and first-come, first-served accommodations. There are no RV hook-ups in the parks and due to road conditions, vehicles over 22 feet are not allowed on certain routes.

7. Death Valley National Park | California & Nevada

The largest national park outside of Alaska, Death Valley is a 3.3-million-acre land of extremes. Within the park’s boundaries lie rolling badlands, mountains, salt flats, sand dunes and Badwater Basin — the lowest point in United States and the second-lowest point in the Western Hemisphere.

Despite its name, the park supports a diverse range of desert wildlife.

RV Camping In Death Valley National Park:
The are a number campgrounds within the parks offering a mix of reservation-based and first-come, first-served accommodations. Sites with hook-ups are extremely limited, so book ahead. Some campgrounds do not accept RVs over 25 feet.

8. Joshua Tree National Park | California

Named for the trees native to the park, Joshua Tree preserves two distinct desert ecosystems — the Mojave and Colorado.

Visitors will find unique landscapes, diverse wildlife and incredible stargazing. Hiking, birdwatching, slack-lining and horseback riding are among the activities available in the park.

RV Camping In Joshua Tree National Park:
There are both first-come, first-served and reserved campsites available. Due to the park’s proximity to Los Angeles and San Diego, campgrounds can fill up quickly on weekends, so booking ahead is recommended. Most campgrounds can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet.

National Parks In The Rockies

9. Glacier National Park | Montana

Glacier National Park lies along the Canadian border and is home to a remarkably well-preserved ecosystem that includes grizzlies, moose, mountain goats and wolverines.

Glacier is the headwater for waters that flow through vast parts of the United States, earning it the title of “Crown of the Continent Ecosystem.”

RV Camping In Glacier National Park:
Camping is only permitted in designated campsites, most of which are first-come, first-served. Note that hook-ups are not available and spaces for RVs over 21 feet are extremely limited.

10. Yellowstone National Park | Idaho, Montana & Wyoming

The first national park in the United States (and by most accounts, the world) is a nature lover’s paradise.

The park welcomes millions of visitors each year who come to experience the park’s famous geysers, forests, waterfalls and wildlife.

RV Camping In Yellowstone National Park:
There are over 2,000 campsites in the park, spread across 12 campgrounds. Most campgrounds offer RV accommodations, with size restrictions varying from 25 to 50 feet.

11. Grand Teton National Park | Wyoming

Lying just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton is a park made for outdoor adventurers, whether you’re looking to go kayaking, fishing or wildlife watching.

The alpine terrain makes for fantastic hiking and there are over two hundred miles of trails to explore.

RV Camping In Grand Teton National Park:
There are five RV-friendly campgrounds in Grand Teton, including two designated RV villages with full hook-ups. Vehicle length restrictions vary from 30 to 45 feet. Reservations are recommended.

12. Rocky Mountain National Park | Colorado

Less than two hours from Denver, Rocky Mountain is home to 415 square miles of beautiful alpine wilderness.

Activities range from snowshoeing and sledding in the winter, to hiking and wildlife spotting in the summer.

RV Camping In Rocky Mountain National Park:
There are four campgrounds that accept RVs (no hook-ups) with length limits from 30 to 40 feet.

13. Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve | Colorado

Great Sand Dunes is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, as well as a diverse landscape that includes alpine lakes, forests and wetlands.

The snow-capped Rocky Mountains loom in the background, a stark contrast to the park’s desert-like dunes.

RV Camping In Great Sand Dunes Park:
There are spaces for RVs up to 35 feet. During the busy season (May through September), sites must be reserved at least four days in advance. There are no hook-ups at the NPS site, though some area campgrounds offer more amenities.

14. Mesa Verde National Park | Colorado

Mesa Verde, which means “green table” in Spanish, preserves nearly 5,000 archeological sites, making it the largest archeological preserve in the United States.

The lands that now lie within the park were inhabited for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers; the layers of history that are preserved within the park’s boundaries are sure to fascinate history buffs and children alike.

RV Camping In Mesa Verde National Park:
There is only one campground within the park — but with 267 sites, it rarely fills up. Both dry camping and full hook-up sites are available, though the latter are limited and require reservations. RVs must be under 46 feet long.

15. Arches National Park | Utah

Located just north of Moab, Arches is home to an otherworldly landscape of over 2,000 sandstone arches, as well as fascinating geological features like naturally eroded hoodoos, gargoyles and balanced rocks.

RV Camping In Arches National Park:
Camping is permitted only in designated sites. Spaces fill up quickly during the busy season (March through October) and are usually booked months ahead of time. There are no hook-ups in the park and all RVs must be under 40 feet.

16. Capitol Reef National Park | Utah

Capitol Reef lies in the very heart of red rock country.

The park preserves towering monoliths, ridges and buttes, as well as surprisingly green and fertile valleys that support historic orchards with over 2,700 fruit trees.

RV Camping In Capitol Reef National Park:
The Fruita campground has 64 developed RV sites that can accommodate virtually any RV length (up to 52 feet). There are also 11 remote undeveloped campsites deeper in the park that operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

17. Bryce Canyon National Park | Utah

Bryce Canyon is a truly unique and awe-inspiring place that has to be seen to be believed.

Whether you go for a hike among the hoodoos, snowshoe along the rim in winter or simply take in the views with a scenic drive through the park, you’re sure to be wowwed by the landscape.

RV Camping In Bryce Canyon National Park:
There are two campgrounds in the park. During the busy season (April to October), RV parking is restricted to certain areas and vehicles are limited to under 25 feet.

18. Zion National Park | Utah

Steep red cliffs, forest trails, waterfalls, riverside hikes, hanging gardens — Zion is filled with inspiring landscapes and natural diversity.

Follow in the footsteps of ancient peoples and pioneers as you explore places like Weeping Rock, the Temple of Sinawava, Emerald Pools and Angels Landing.

RV Camping In Zion National Park:
There are three campgrounds within the park. There are both first-come, first-served and reservable sites available. Many sites have height restrictions of 12’5″.

National Parks In The Southwest

19. Grand Canyon National Park | Arizona

The Grand Canyon is famous for a reason. Up to 18 miles wide, 277 river miles long and up to a mile deep, it’s overwhelming in its scale and beauty.

Go rafting through the rapids of the Colorado River, walk 4,000 feet above the canyon floor on the glass Skywalk or go hiking along the rim for unparalleled views. However you experience the Grand Canyon, it’s sure to awe and inspire.

RV Camping In Grand Canyon National Park:
Two of the three NPS campgrounds accept reservations. None of these three campgrounds have hook-ups, but there is a privately operated RV park within Grand Canyon Village that does and can accommodate vehicles up to 50 feet long.

20. Canyon De Chelly National Monument | Arizona

This national monument lies within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation. Managed in cooperation with the Navajo, the park protects one of the longest continuously inhabited landscapes in North America.

Its long history, archeological ruins and distinctive geologic structures make Canyon de Chelly a unique and inspiring experience.

RV Camping In Canyon De Chelly National Monument:
The Navajo Nation manages an RV-friendly park within the monument that accepts RVs up to 40 feet on a first-come, first-served basis. Note that there are no hook-ups and limited facilities.

21. Saguaro National Park | Arizona

When you think of cacti, you probably picture saguaro. Found only in a small part of the country, the giant saguaro is an iconic symbol of the American west.

Made up of two parts on either side of Tucson, Saguaro National Park preserves Rincon Mountain and Sonoran Desert landscapes, unique wildlife and (of course) the large, tree-like saguaro cacti.

RV Camping In Saguaro National Park:
RV parking is not permitted within the boundaries of the park.

22. White Sands National Monument | New Mexico

White Sands is a true natural wonder. Located in the northern Chihuahuan Desert, it is home to the world’s largest gypsum sand dunes.

Popular activities include horseback riding, picnicking and sand sledding!

RV Camping In White Sands National Monument:
There is no RV camping within the monument, but there are many public and private campgrounds within an hour’s drive.

23. Guadalupe Mountains National Park | Texas

Located in the far-west corner of Texas, Guadalupe Mountains is home to the highest peaks in the state, as well as excellent stargazing and wildlife spotting.

It’s also one of the lesser-visited parks in the National Parks System, meaning you’re likely to have rugged hiking and horseback riding trails all to yourself!

Bonus: Guadalupe Mountains is just 30 miles from Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico, which is home to more than 119 fascinating caves. It’s like a national park two-for-one deal!

RV Camping In Guadalupe Mountains National Park:
There are two campgrounds within the park that offer RV accommodations on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no hook-ups or dump stations.

24. Big Bend National Park | Texas

Everything’s bigger in Texas! Big Bend boasts towering limestone cliffs, enormous night skies and, of course, the Rio Grande (“Big River” in Spanish). It’s one of the largest — and least visited! — national parks in the lower 48 states.

The park contains the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the country. Despite the harsh climate, Big Bend is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life — almost 2,000 species (plus about 3,600 species of insects). It’s night skies are internationally recognized for their darkness — on many nights you can even see the Milky Way.

RV Camping In Big Bend National Park:
Big Bend is quite RV-friendly. There are plenty of sites with full hook-ups and campgrounds offer a mix of reservation-based and first-come, first-served sites. Some campsites are not recommended for RVs over 24 feet due to road conditions.

National Parks In The Midwest

25. Scotts Bluff National Monument | Nebraska

Scotts Bluff towers 800 feet above the plains, and is most famous as a landmark for the emigrants who traveled west along the Oregon and Mormon Trails.

Long before it helped European travelers navigate across the plains, the rock formation was known as Me-a-pa-te by local Native Americans — meaning “the hill that is hard to go around.”

RV Camping In Scotts Bluff National Monument:
There is no camping within the monument boundaries. However, there are several RV campgrounds nearby; Robidoux RV Park offers 42 RV pads with hook-ups and views of the monument.

26. Badlands National Park | South Dakota

There’s nothing bad about these lands! (Sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves.) Sharply eroded pinnacles, spites and buttes rise above the one of the largest undisturbed grass prairies in the United States.

Badlands is home a range of wildlife — both ancient and modern. The park contains one of the world’s riches fossil beds, which preserves the remains of animals like sabertooth cats. Today, it’s home to animals like bison, porcupines, coyotes and prairie dogs.

RV Camping In Badlands National Park:
There are two campgrounds within the park. One offers developed camping (some sites with hook-ups) and accepts reservations. The other is more remote (bison often wander through) and offers free primitive camping on a first-come, first-served basis.

27. Theodore Roosevelt National Park | North Dakota

It may seem contradictory, but U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt was an avid hunter of the very bison that his eponymous park now protects. The rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife of North Dakota’s badlands inspired Roosevelt as a young man. When he became president, he made lasting contributions to the conservation of America’s natural beauty and resources.

Visitors to the park can learn all about the Roosevelt connection, or simply enjoy the park’s sprawling badlands and rich wildlife — including feral horses, bobcats, coyote and bison.

RV Camping In Theodore Roosevelt National Park:
There are three campgrounds within the park that can accommodate RVs of various sizes (no hook-ups). Reservations required for some sites, others first-come, first-served.

28. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore | Wisconsin

Apostle Islands consists of 21 islands and nearly 70,000 acres of shoreline along Lake Superior.

Popular with kayakers, hikers and lighthouse fanatics alike, the national park attracts visitors year-round. In warmer months, you can kayak from island to island or hike along 50 miles of mainland trails. And when winter conditions are just right, it is possible to tread across the lake to view the spectacular ice caves that form along the lakeshore.

RV Camping Along Apostle Islands National Lakeshore:
The NPS campgrounds are for tenters only, but there are plenty of RV-friendly campgrounds around the park. Facilities and policies vary.

29. Isle Royale National Park | Michigan

Accessible by boat or seaplane, Isle Royale is known for its rugged shores, northwoods forest and wildlife. Thanks to its remote location in Lake Superior, it’s also one of the least-visited national parks.

The park is not RV-friendly (or even car-friendly, for that matter), but we just had to include it. Few corners of the country remain so unspoiled and uncrowded — it’s a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature-lovers looking to really get away from it all.

RV Camping In Isle Royale National Park:
Isle Royale is a car-free wilderness. You’ll have to leave your camper or trailer onshore to visit.

30. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Michigan

Located on the south shore of Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks gets its name from its multicolored sandstone cliffs and rock formations.

Visitors will find beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls and scenic forest hiking trails, as well as plenty of outdoor activities all year round.

RV Camping Along Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore:
Campgrounds are strictly first-come, first-served and arriving early is recommended. RVs over 36 feet and car/trailer combos over 42 feet are not advised.

31. Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Ohio

Just a short distance from Akron and Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley is Ohio’s only national park. It preserves the lush rural landscape around the Cuyahoga River.

Forests, rolling hills and farmland support wildlife like raccoons, foxes, beavers, falcons and great blue herons.

RV Camping In Cuyahoga Valley National Park:
Overnight RV parking is not permitted in the park. RVs can be parked at designated areas during the day.

32. Ozark National Scenic Riverways | Missouri

This national park was established to protect a river system — the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Both spring-fed rivers are popular for canoeing, swimming and fishing.

There are also hundreds of freshwater springs, caves, historic sites and hiking trails throughout the park,.

RV Camping Along Ozark National Scenic Riversways:
There are tons of camping options in the park, ranging from primitive backcountry camping to developed campgrounds with full hookups. Both reservable and first-come, first-served sites are available.

National Parks In The South

33. Buffalo National River | Arkansas

The Buffalo River flows uninterrupted through this national park for 135 miles; it’s one of the last remaining undammed rivers in the contiguous United States.

In addition to river-based activities like canoeing, visitors will find hiking and horseback riding trails, historic homesteads and starry skies.

RV Camping Along Buffalo National River:
There are a number of campgrounds throughout the park offering the full range of amenities from primitive to full hook-up. Camping is permitted in designated spots only.

34. Chickasaw National Recreation Area | Oklahoma

Located at the foot of Oklahoma’s Arbuckle Mountains, Chickasaw is a water lover’s paradise. Known for its mineral springs, streams and lakes, the park is perfect for swimmers, water-skiers, boaters, anglers — and just about anyone looking to cool off on a hot summer’s day.

RV Camping In Chickasaw National Recreation Area:
There are six public campgrounds within the park, including some with full hook-ups and spaces for RVs up to 40 feet. Reservation policies and recommendations vary.

35. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park And Preserve | Louisiana

Did you know there was a national park just outside New Orleans? Jean Lafitte, named after the famous French pirate who helped defend New Orleans against the British in 1815, is comprised of six sites that preserve the region’s unique natural and cultural landscape.

Its proximity to major cities makes it a great day trip, whether you’re looking to canoe through Louisiana’s famous bayous and swamplands, learn about Cajun culture or visit the site of the Battle of New Orleans.

RV Camping In Jean Lafitte National Historical Park:
There is no RV camping within the park’s boundaries, but you can find camping at nearby state parks as well as private campgrounds.

36. Everglades National Park | Florida

The Everglades isn’t just the largest wilderness east of the Mississippi — it’s also a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve and Wetland of International Importance.

So what makes it so special? As the largest tropical wilderness in the country, it preserves a huge network of wetlands and forests that form the basis of a rich but fragile ecosystem. There are nine distinct ecosystems within the park and dozens of endangered species call the Everglades home.

Popular activities include canoeing, hiking, boating, biking and bird-watching.

RV Camping In Everglades National Park:
There are two drive-in campgrounds in the park that can accommodate a limited number of RVs (no hook-ups). During the busy winter months, reservations are highly recommended.

37. Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve | Florida

The Florida national park that you never knew existed, Timucuan is a historically and ecologically rich 42,000-acre preserve that protects thousands of years of human history, plus one of the last unspoiled coastal wetlands on the East Coast.

In addition to its natural beauty, Timucuan includes the remains of a short-lived sixteenth-century French colony, a nineteenth-century plantation and a formerly segregated beach for African Americans — all fascinating and sobering reminders of a complicated national history.

RV Camping In Timucuan Ecological & Historical Preserve:
There are no NPS-operated campgrounds in the park. However, there are two state and local campgrounds located within the boundaries of the preserve with varying accommodations for RVs.

38. Cumberland Island National Seashore | Georgia

Georgia’s largest barrier island is home to pristine forests, marshes and 18 miles of undeveloped beaches where feral horses roam freely and loggerhead turtles make their nests.

In addition to Cumberland Island’s natural beauty — think ancient oak trees draped in Spanish moss and windswept white beaches — visitors will also find the impressive ruins of two Gilded Age mansions.

RV Camping Along Cumberland Island National Seashore:
The park itself is undeveloped and only accessible by the NPS ferry system. However, there are a number of RV campgrounds on the mainland close to the ferry landing.

39. Congaree National Park | South Carolina

Congaree preserves the largest area of old growth bottomland hardwood forest — forests that grow in swampy floodplains — on the East Coast.

The forest supports a diverse ecosystem, including otters, bobcats, armadillos, deer and some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States.

RV Camping In Congaree National Park:
RV camping is not permitted in the park, but there are several RV campgrounds within driving distance. Amenities and regulations vary.

40. Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Tennessee-North Carolina

Did you know that Great Smoky Mountains is America’s most-visited national park?

Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, this 816-square-mile park has some of the most iconic mountain views in the country — not to mention abundant wildlife, spectacular hiking trails and a rich history.

RV Camping In Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
There are nine RV-friendly NPS campgrounds within the park. Maximum length limits vary from under 12 feet to no limit at all. Some campgrounds require reservations, while others are first-come, first served.

41. New River Gorge National River | West Virginia

The New River is actually one of the oldest rivers on the continent (what’s in a name, right?).

This scenic national park protects over 70,000 acres of land along the course of this ancient river, which is renowned for some of the best whitewater rafting in the country and its truly impressive steel bridge.

RV Camping Along New River Gorge National River:
All camping sites in the park are first-come, first-served. Camping in the park is primitive — no water or hook-ups — so come prepared.

42. Shenandoah National Park | Virginia

Only 75 miles from Washington, D.C., Shenandoah encompasses nearly 200,000 acres of wilderness along a long and narrow stretch of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Famous for its scenic 105-mile Skyline Drive, the park is also to waterfalls, wildlife and quiet hollows.

RV Camping In Shenandoah National Park:
Campgrounds are seasonal, opening in spring and closing in autumn. There are four campgrounds in the park with RV sites, though there are no hook-ups. Reservations are highly recommended in the high season.

National Parks In The Northeast

43. Assateague Island National Seashore | Maryland-Virginia

A rugged, windswept wilderness where horses roam freely and an ocean storm can reshape the land in a matter of minutes, Assateague Island is one of the East Coast’s best-preserved coastal habitats.

The land here is constantly changing as the barrier island is buffeted by Atlantic wind and waves. Only three to five hours from some of the East Coast’s largest cities, this pristine 37-mile island feels like a world away.

RV Camping Along Assateague Island National Seashore:
There are two drive-in campgrounds within the park that offer RV camping. Sites have a picnic table and fire ring, but no hookups. Reservations are required.

44. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area | New Jersey & Pennsylvania

No, this park isn’t in Delaware. It’s located along the Delaware River on the New Jersey/Pennsylvania border, just a short drive from New York City.

Just about every outdoor activity you could want is possible in this recreation area — including fishing, canoeing, cross-country skiing and horseback riding.

More than 100 miles of hiking trails, — including 27 miles of the Appalachian Trail — and 100 miles of scenic roadways wind through the park, making it a great choice for every fitness level.

RV Camping In Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area:
There are two developed campgrounds in the park with RV sites. These campgrounds are state-run or privately owned in compliance with NPS regulations. Policies and accommodations vary.

45. Cape Cod National Seashore | Massachusetts

A favorite summer playground for East Coasters, Cape Cod is also home to 40 miles of pristine sandy beaches, salt marshes, ponds and pine barrens — all of which support rich coastal ecosystems.

Cape Cod is ideal for families and couples looking for a relaxed getaway exploring cranberry bogs, seaside biking and hiking trails, historic buildings and (of course) the seashore’s numerous sandy swimming beaches.

RV Camping Along Cape Cod National Seashore:
There are no NPS-operated campgrounds within the park, but RV camping (up to 35 feet) is permitted at the nearby Nickerson State Park.

46. Acadia National Park | Maine

Acadia is the oldest national park east of the Mississippi and was visited by over 3.5 million people in 2017 alone.

Visitors flock to experience Acadia’s rocky headlands, woodlands and famous shoreline, which includes several small Atlantic islands.

The park is rich in natural diversity — wildlife includes moose, bobcats, black bears and many marine species — and is popular with hikers, boaters and beachcombers alike.

RV Camping In Acadia National Park:
There are a number of campgrounds, both NPS and private, that offer RV accommodations with varying restrictions. Campsites fill up quickly, so recommendations are highly recommended.

National Parks In Alaska & Hawaii

47. Denali National Park & Preserve | Alaska

A single, partially paved road stretches 91 miles through six million acres of this Alaskan wilderness.

Home to tundra, glaciers, boreal forests and the tallest mountain peak in North America, Denali is an unspoiled arctic wilderness that beckons mountaineers, wildlife watchers and all manner of outdoor adventurers.

RV Camping In Denali National Park:
RV camping is only permitted in designated campgrounds. There are three campgrounds that accept RVs under 40 feet (no hook-ups), two of which are only open in summer months.

48. Wrangell-St Elias National Park & Preserve | Alaska

Almost six times the size of Yellowstone, the vastness of Wrangell-St Elias has to be seen to be believed.

The park’s 13.2 million acres are home to nine of the 16 highest peaks in the country, some of the world’s largest glaciers and habitats that range from temperate rainforest to tundra to coastal waters.

RV Camping In Wrangell-St Elias National Park:
There is a single NPS campground in the park, as well as a number of privately owned campgrounds with varying restrictions and amenities. Due to the vastness of the park and limited facilities, always plan ahead.

49. Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve | Alaska

No roads run through Glacier Bay, but that didn’t stop over 500,000 people from making the boat or plane journey to this vast icy wilderness last year.

Located west of Juneau in southeastern Alaska, Glacier Bay is known for its glaciers, snow-capped mountains and enigmatic wildlife — like wolves, bears, caribou and humpback whales, among others.

RV Camping In Glacier Bay National Park:
The park is inaccessible to RVs, but there is a free walk-in campground for tent camping.

50. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Hawaii

Fire and water meet in Hawai’i Volcanoes. This unique national park includes two active volcanoes — Kilauea, one of the world’s most active, and Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth.

The park encompasses a range of habitats, including lush tropical rainforests and barren desert. Popular activities include hiking, biking, driving tours and, of course, lava viewing.

RV Camping In Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park:
There are two drive-in campgrounds operated by the park that can accommodate small RVs and campervans. No hook-ups are available.

What’s the difference between a National Park and a National Monument?

There are 19 main categories of NPS designations (plus 11 “other” sites) that include everything from national monuments to national battlefields to national seashores.

Some designations are self-explanatory while others are a little more complicated. But at the end of the day, they’re all national parks. To make things a little less confusing, we’ve broken down the different kinds of national parks that are included in this list:

• National Parks are typically vast areas of land protected for their scenic, inspirational, educational and/or recreational value. They are given the greatest level of protection with the aim of preserving their resources for the enjoyment of future generations.
• National Monuments are usually smaller than national parks and are intended to protect sites of historical, cultural and/or scientific interest. They are only required to have one item of interest (unlike national parks, which must have a variety of attractions).
• National Preserves protect certain resources. Activities like hunting or mining may be allowed if they do not “jeopardize the natural values” of the park.
• National Seashores & National Lakeshores preserve natural and scenic resources along shoreline areas and offshore islands while also providing water-based recreation.
• National Rivers & National Scenic Riverways protect rivers and their immediate environments. These areas also provide water-based and outdoor recreation.
• National Historical Parks protect areas of significant historical and cultural value. They are typically larger and more diverse than other national historic sites.
• National Recreation Areas were originally given to areas surrounding reservoirs (like Lake Mead), but now include a variety of areas set aside for recreational use like kayaking, hiking, fishing and camping.

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Psst! Did you miss out on April’s fee-free day? Never fear — there are two more coming up this year: September 22 (Public Lands Day) and November 11 (Veterans Day) are also fee-free in 2018.

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Feeling inspired? Rent an RV on Campanda and start discovering our country’s amazing natural diversity and landscapes for yourself!

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]]> https://www.campanda.com/magazine/50-national-parks-to-visit-in-your-lifetime/feed/ 0 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/5-amazing-rv-trips-for-hikers/ https://www.campanda.com/magazine/5-amazing-rv-trips-for-hikers/#respond Fri, 23 Mar 2018 18:09:17 +0000 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/?p=5729 By Camille Attell If you love being outdoors and exploring nature, then a great perk of RV travel is that you can park, sleep and live in the same place where you plan to hike. (And if you don’t have one of your own, you can now rent an RV from fellow enthusiasts on Campanda!)... Continue reading →

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]]> Camille Attell If you love being outdoors and exploring nature, then a great perk of RV travel is that you can park, sleep and live in the same place where you plan to hike.



(And if you don’t have one of your own, you can now rent an RV from fellow enthusiasts on Campanda!) My husband and I are avid hikers, and have had some of our best hiking experiences while traveling in an RV. We have a fairly large rig too — a 34-foot Class A gas coach — and have been able to get it into nearly every place we’ve wanted, including some really off-the-beaten-path areas. Here are some of our favorite hikes, along with tips on where to park your RV when you get there:

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Bryce Canyon National Park | Utah

Utah is the mega-hike capital of our nation. With towering red rock landscapes and five national parks, it can feel impossible to pick just one national park to visit. So we decided to visit all five! Deciding on just one park for this article wasn’t much easier, but my husband and I decided that Bryce Canyon was our top choice because of the unique structures and relatively easy hiking options. It also helps that it has the same name as my husband Bryce. In fact, when we meet new people, he often says “My name’s Bryce — like the canyon.”



We did the Navajo Loop Trail, a moderate 1.4-mile trail. You can complete this loop in about one to two hours, and see a variety of landscapes , including hoodoos (the tall, spire-like rock formations) and sweeping vistas. You can either pack a lunch (my favorite way to eat on a hike) or check out Ruby’s Inn, a hotel and restaurant catering to visitors. There are a couple of camping options in the area, which you can find on the National Parks Service website. We chose to camp behind Ruby’s Inn, which offers twelve RV sites. This gave us easy access to the hotel, restaurant and even the jacuzzi, which you can use at no additional cost. Trust me, there’s nothing like a soak in a jacuzzi to help you relax your tired muscles after a long day of hiking.

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Guadalupe Peak | Texas

Bryce and I are what you call “peak baggers” — people who like to hike to the the top of the highest points in every place. We have summited Mount Kilimanjaro and a few other peaks. Bryce is a bit more determined than me and was eager to bag Guadalupe Peak, located in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas. I was less enthusiastic when I discovered that we were out of the coffee that morning. But being the good sport that I am, I drank tea instead and grumpily muscled up the mountain.



The Guadalupe Peak Trail that leads up to the 8,751-foot peak is a strenuous 8.4 miles with 3,000 feet of elevation. If you’re not an avid hiker or in reasonable to good shape, this hike might tucker you out. But it’s worth it in the end because the views are stunning, especially if you bring a lunch and eat at the top. If that’s a lot to take on, there are plenty of easier hikes in the area. (Side note: The top of Guadalupe Peak is my first ever blog post on our More Than A Wheelin’ website!) Camping in the park is limited and basic. We ended up boondocking in the parking lot. You can read my article about finding free and inexpensive RV camping for more information about how to boondock.



It’s worth mentioning that Carlsbad Caverns National Park — a massive cave system in New Mexico — is not far from Guadalupe Peak. It’s by far the most stunning cave system I have ever seen and it’s 100 percent worth the 30-minute drive from Guadalupe Peak. The giant speleothems (cave formations) will leave you in awe. It may be a stretch to call Carlsbad Caverns a hike since there is an option to take an elevator, but if you want to turn it into a more active side trip, then I recommend climbing back up the 750-foot incline when you leave.

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Black Elk Peak | South Dakota

If you’re a peak bagger like us, then you should definitely add Black Elk Peak to your list of hikes. Just a stone’s throw from Mount Rushmore, it’s a destination that you can easily work into your family’s summer vacation. The four-mile trail starts at Sylvan Lake inside of Custer State Park and leads to the highest natural point in South Dakota at 7,242 feet. It offers beautiful scenery and wide mountain and valley vistas. There’s even a stone fire tower at the top that offers stunning 360-degree views.



When we hiked it we barely saw anyone else on the trail and had the peak all to ourselves. We enjoyed some turkey sandwiches while taking it all in. There are a number of RV camping options in the area. We camped in Piedmont — about 15 to 20 minutes outside of Rapid City — because we wanted to explore a number of places in the area and that was the most convenient location for our plans.

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Grand Teton National Park | Wyoming

It’s hard to find a hike as grand as what’s offered in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. I grew up in California and the Sierra Nevada mountain range was right in my backyard. I thought we had the best mountain range in the United States until I encountered the Grand Tetons with its sweeping rock facing stretching to the valley floor. Whew, they took my breath away!



We had planned on one of the more popular hikes in the park, but apparently so had everyone else — it would have been over an hour before we’d be able to park our car. So we ended up at the 7.2-mile Phelps Lake Loop Trail instead. This turned out wonderfully because we got to take in the Phelps Lake views. As we descended to the lake bed, we crossed through a beautiful wildflower meadow while gazing at lodgepole pine trees (and keeping a watchful eye for grizzly bears).



It rained on and off, creating a heavy mist that engulfed the peaks. The intermittent drizzle actually made the experience even more mystical! There are multiple RV parking options in Grand Teton. We were lucky enough to discover Upper Teton View, which you can find on Campendium. It was a visually stunning spot, fairly quiet and private with only a handful of other RVers. It’s boondocking-only accommodations in a rugged area, so be prepared.

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Chimney Rock State Park | North Carolina

I didn’t do much traveling around the Southeast before I started RVing. When I finally did, I was surprised by how green it is! We explored portions of the Smoky Mountains and hikes like Clingman’s Dome (the highest point in Tennessee) where it’s green everywhere! But it was the hike to Chimney Rock in North Carolina where I really appreciated how lush the areas is. The Chimney Rock Hike is unique for a few reasons: A trail turns into a series of staircases that leads you to the top of the 315-foot granite outcropping located on the very edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll feel pretty high up at 2,280 feet above sea level, and from the top you can take in the 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. If you want a neat lunch experience, consider dining at the restaurant in the park, which is connected by the elevated staircases. You can’t camp in the park, but you can drive your RV in if needed. Check out TripAdvisor recommendations for camping options.

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I hope you enjoyed this roundup of five great hikes (and a bonus hike in Carlsbad Caverns). Our country offers such diverse and beautiful terrain and it was difficult to pick our top five. The hikes that made the cut were chosen because they offer the chance to see different landscapes at various levels of difficulty — meaning there’s a hike on this list for just about everyone. Now get out there and go bag a peak!

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Feeling inspired? Rent an RV on Campanda to discover all the amazing hiking this country has to offer.

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]]> https://www.campanda.com/magazine/5-amazing-rv-trips-for-hikers/feed/ 0 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/rv-school-breaks/ https://www.campanda.com/magazine/rv-school-breaks/#respond Fri, 23 Mar 2018 16:16:42 +0000 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/?p=5684 By Liz Wilcox Anyone who has had a full-time job knows how precious long weekends are. They offer a much-needed extra day of relaxation — or the perfect opportunity to take a mini-vacation without cutting into your annual allowance. If you have kids, long weekends offer the chance to spend extra time with your family.... Continue reading →

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]]> Liz Wilcox Anyone who has had a full-time job knows how precious long weekends are. They offer a much-needed extra day of relaxation — or the perfect opportunity to take a mini-vacation without cutting into your annual allowance. If you have kids, long weekends offer the chance to spend extra time with your family. But when a long weekend stretches into a full-blown vacation, the pressure is on for parents to keep the children entertained. Many parents plan family getaways during school breaks. But these can often be complicated and expensive — negating much of the fun for the adults involved. That’s where RVing comes in. Owning or renting an RV just makes things easier. You can go more places. You don’t have expensive hotel fees. And best of all, no lost luggage! The freedom is great. But with all that freedom, how do you narrow down where to go? And how do you know your chosen destination is going to be RV-friendly? Based on personal experience and some help from fellow RV parents, I’ve put together a list of destinations that are perfect for RVers looking to travel during school breaks and long weekends. (And no, you don’t need to have young children to enjoy these destinations. Every place on this list is also great for kid-free vacationing.) All of the following places have:
• Parking/campsites in or near the destination.
• Proximity to outdoor activities (hiking, national parks, etc).
• Entertainment (amusement parks, festivals, cultural attractions).

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Here are five excellent RV destinations to visit when school is out. I’ve broken them down by the major school breaks, but you can obviously take shorter trips over long weekends if you live nearby:

Spring Break RV Destinations

1. Florida Caverns State Park | Marianna, Florida

You probably don’t need me to tell you Florida is a popular spot for spring break. Each year, millions of tourists flock to the peninsula to hang out on the beach and soak up the sun. But what if I told you Florida had more to offer Spring Breakers than bayous and beaches?



Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna is truly one-of-a-kind. The dry caves are some of the only in the state and this state park is the only place you’ll be able to tour them. I’m a Florida native and I’ll never forget the first time I saw the incredible formations of limestone stalactites and stalagmites. I was in awe that my home state could be so diverse. In addition to the exclusive guided cave tours, the park is also popular for camping. It offers fishing opportunities and canoe and kayak rentals. There is even an onsite restaurant and a playground for those RVing with kids. My favorite thing to do in this park is to explore the nature trails. There are beautiful rocky bluffs above the river floodplain. Pay close attention to the plants — many rare species run alongside the trail. The hikes are mildly strenuous, but most members of the family will be able to complete them.



The park’s RV camping accessibility makes this a great RV spring break destination. There are electric and water hookups in the park and they accommodate RVs up to 40 feet long! If you’ve been RVing for any amount of time, you know that most state parks have a 30-foot limit, so this is amazing! There are also campgrounds near the park if you cannot find space on-site. If you need a little more incentive, one of the most popular spring break destinations in the country — Panama City Beach — is a mere 60 miles away.

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2. White Sands National Monument | Chihuahuan Desert, New Mexico



Maybe it’s just me, but it seems like New Mexico is America’s best kept secret. Before RVing, I had no clue why anyone would want to go there. It’s just a hot desert, right?



Oh, how quickly my RVing buddies let me know how wrong I was. They introduced me to all kinds of hidden gems in this great state! White Sands National Monument is a great example. I discovered this amazing desert through a newsletter from one of my favorite RV blogs, Tiny Shiny Home. This place looks like the landscape is full of snowdrifts, but it’s 75 degrees outside! One of the most popular things to do at White Sands is to sled down the dunes. Sleds are even available in the gift shop. There is also a local KOA for lodging that has great amenities for everyone in your group.

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Winter Break RV Destinations

3. Orlando, Florida



I know, I know. Everyone puts Orlando on this sort of list. But it really is the perfect winter break destination for any RVer. In fact, my family just spent a few weeks down there ourselves. Endless campgrounds, entertainment and sunshine — Orlando has everything you need to have a good time on your winter vacation. One of the most popular spots in the city is Walt Disney World. But you probably already knew that. What you might not know about is the incredible Fort Wilderness Resort.



Fort Wilderness Resort is Disney’s RV park and I’ve never met an RVer who said it was a waste of money. The park covers 750 acres and accommodates RVs and campers of any size. Amenities include a waterslide pool, canoeing and even archery and horseback riding. (Yes, all at the RV park.) My friend Julie recently wintered there and said that she especially loved the free shuttle to the amusement parks and other areas of Walt Disney World. But Mickey and the gang aren’t the only things to see in Orlando! Check out my article on RV-friendly cities if you want to discover a different (and more frugal side) to the area.

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4. Atlanta, Georgia



Atlanta has something for everybody.



When visiting this southern city, I love to explore the downtown area. There are just so many tourist sights to see! Take the Georgia Aquarium, for instance: It’s the world’s largest aquarium and home to some of our planet’s cutest and most unique water animals. They even have puffins! The World of Coca-Cola is a pretty cool spot as well. It’s essentially an interactive soda museum and you’ll get a taste of Coke’s history and future all in the same place.



Even if you’re not into the city life, Atlanta can still be a great winter break destination. In fact, one of Georgia’s most-visited attractions is Stone Mountain Park and it’s located less than 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta. I have fond memories here — Stone Mountain is where I had my very first RVer meetup and decided that full-timing was right for me! Stone Mountain is also the best place to park your rig. With over 3200 acres of scenery to explore, it only makes sense to use Stone Mountain’s amazing campground as well. Equipped to accommodate just about any RV, you’ll also find swimming pools, playgrounds and walking trails just outside your RV door! Don’t forget to stretch your legs and go for a hike along the mile-long trail up Stone Mountain. This is something I haven’t actually gotten to do yet, but it’s on my bucket list for 2018!

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Summer Vacation RV Destinations

5. Bar Harbor, Maine



Last summer while I was living in Alabama, all my RVing friends were in Bar Harbor. At one point in August, I felt like the only person on Facebook who wasn’t in Maine!



Bar Harbor is an ideal summer destination, whether you want to travel for food, entertainment or culture. This coastal town has some amazing museums and galleries. You can learn about the Gilded Age of Bar Harbor or its Native American roots, while also enjoying artistic works by historic and contemporary local artists. My friends tell me the museums are small but plentiful. It’s fun to wander in and out of them and the town even offers walking tours. Look for signs around town that say “Museum in the Streets” for even more information on Bar Harbor and its rich history.



The town also hosts music festivals and there are plenty of laid-back clubs and restaurants with live music. My RVer friends said that eating fresh lobster and smelling the salt air with a bit of music in the background was one of the best experiences of their lives! And of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention all the outdoor activities available in the Bar Harbor area: The nearby Acadia National Park is home to beautiful hiking trails and over 45 miles of carriage trails for cyclists. It’s also famous for the highest headlands of the Atlantic coastline. This makes it ideal for nature lovers of all ages.



But the number one thing on my Bar Harbor to-do list is to go whale-watching. There are many boats that leave each day, making this once-in-a-lifetime experience surprisingly easy to access. I just can’t wait to see those gentle giants in real life!

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Just A Reminder: 2018/2019 School Vacations & Long Weekends

Many schools observe local state holidays as well as federal holidays. Spring and winter breaks vary from district to district, but usually occur in December, January, February and/or March. The dates for the federal holidays this year are:
• January 1: New Year’s Day
• January 21: MLK Jr. Day
• February 18: Washington’s Birthday (President’s Day)
• May 27: Memorial Day
• July 4: Independence Day
• September 2: Labor Day
• October 14: Columbus Day
• November 11: Veterans Day
• November 28: Thanksgiving
• December 25: Christmas Day

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Love the idea of taking an RV trip with your family this year? Browse Campanda‘s selection of RV rentals to find the perfect vehicle for your next vacation:

Click Here To Rent An RV

If you’re an RV owner who doesn’t use your RV 24/7, you could be earning money by renting out your vehicle to local families. Click the link below to learn more:

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]]> https://www.campanda.com/magazine/rv-school-breaks/feed/ 0 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/rv-events-rallies-campouts/ https://www.campanda.com/magazine/rv-events-rallies-campouts/#respond Tue, 20 Mar 2018 18:04:04 +0000 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/?p=5666 By Camille Attell RVing is a great way to travel to remote places, far away from the crowds and the bustle of everyday life. But what if you want to experience RV travel and still be with friends? Does it always have to be about being alone or with your family in nature? No, it... Continue reading →

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]]> Camille Attell RVing is a great way to travel to remote places, far away from the crowds and the bustle of everyday life. But what if you want to experience RV travel and still be with friends? Does it always have to be about being alone or with your family in nature? No, it doesn’t! In fact, one of the the best ways to experience RVing is to attend an RV event. Many people love traveling with others and like to attend events where they can reconnect with old friends and create new relationships. (You can read all about making friends on the road here.) Here are some great RV events to consider adding to your travel calendar:

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Escapade Rally | May – June, 2018

The Escapees RV club has been serving the needs of the RV community since 1978. They offer resources and information about all things RVing. In addition to the wonderful services they provide, they also host events. The 58th annual Escapade rally is a week-long event filled with activities, education and fun hosted by the Escapees RV club. There you can socialize, attend learning sessions and even go to RV “bootcamp” where you can learn everything you need to know about RVing. With over 80 seminars, classes and workshops, you will be fully prepared to hit the open road with confidence. This year they have partnered with an organization called Fulltime Families to offer the “Kidscapade” — so the kiddos can have fun and learn about RVing while you get to attend workshops and socialize with the adults. (Check out Escapees.com for more information.)

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Xscapers Convergences | Multiple Events Throughout The Year

Xscapers is a community within Escapees that caters to RVers who love an active lifestyle. Many of them work from their rigs too! They host convergences throughout the year and kick things off every January at the “Annual Bash”. It’s a free event (if you’re an Escapees member) where everyone boondocks — there are no hookups like electric, water or sewer. In addition to all the social events, hiking and day trips, you can also attend learning sessions with topics ranging from boondocking to renovating your RV. I actually stumbled on the Xscapers Annual Bash by accident. I was scrolling through the Escapees.com website looking up information when I saw a post for an upcoming event. Luckily, my husband and I had already planned to be near the area and decided to modify our plans to attend. This was our very first event, and it was a game changer for us. We met so many like-minded people and made wonderful connections that will last a lifetime.

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IndieRV Campout | September 6 – 9, 2018

There is a new kid on the RV rally/campout scene. IndieRV is a community based on the simple desire to travel and explore. IndieRV compiles all the best places to go and coolest things to see. It also provides bucket lists, itineraries and adventure guides for its members — so you can spend more time traveling and less time trip planning! IndieRV is having its first Campout in Hershey, Pennsylvania this September. This event will be a mix of potlucks, sightseeing and tours at Hershey’s Chocolate World. The event costs $10 per person and is just one of the many campouts, meet-ups and retreats that IndieRV plans to host each year.

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Fulltime Families | Multiple Events Throughout The Year

Fulltime Families caters to families living, working and/or schooling from the road. I have never attended a Fulltime Families event, but felt it was worth sharing because I have heard great things and I think it’s a wonderful resource for families. And you don’t have to be a fulltime RVer to attend — so as long as love RVing, you are welcome! To get more information about Fulltime Families, I reached out to fellow RVer Michelle Abraham. Here’s what she said: “We Rallied for [four] days with 40 other families adding up to be about 100 kids in attendance! Each day was jam-packed with kids activities, business learning, RV lifestyle sharing, a talent show, scavenger hunt, kid’s market, home tours, service projects, potlucks and campfires. Some families came a few days or a week before the Rally and some rallied on for a month after! It was a truly memorable welcoming into a new community and road family. We look forward to attending another one soon and have met some of our closest friends at this event.”

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Full-Time Freedom Week | November 2018

Not all RV events have to be in person. There are some really great online events where you can learn and connect with other people.



Full-Time Freedom Week is a week-long event featuring expert RVers sharing their wealth of RV knowledge. You can learn everything from what to look for when you buy an RV to tips for traveling with a family, solo RVing, Workamping opportunities and more. At this free event, you can interact online with speakers and other RV enthusiasts. I was one of the organizers and speakers at the event last year. I made some awesome new connections and learned a lot too!

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RV Entrepreneur Summit | February 2019

This event is quite unique: It’s a specialized event that caters to people who work and build businesses from their RVs. It’s hosted by married entrepreneurs Heath and Alyssa Padgett.



You can attend presentations, workshops and attendee-led meet-ups. You can also collaborate with others in a coworking space, hang out in hammocks and eat some awesome BBQ! I have attended the Summit twice and this year was I invited to facilitate an attendee-led meetup with some RV colleagues about how to turn your blog into a business.

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RV Events Are Everywhere!

The nature of RVing means that you are moving around a lot. That itinerant lifestyle is great fun, but it can make it hard to build and maintain relationships. I have met more friends at these events than any other type of RV experience. Hopefully I’ve introduced you to some RV events that you want to check out yourself. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

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Feeling inspired? Rent an RV on Campanda to join the fun! Click the link below to check out the selection near you:

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]]> https://www.campanda.com/magazine/rv-events-rallies-campouts/feed/ 0 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/unusual-rv-destinations-california/ https://www.campanda.com/magazine/unusual-rv-destinations-california/#respond Fri, 09 Mar 2018 18:32:34 +0000 https://www.campanda.com/magazine/?p=5509 By Camille Attell California has so much to offer: beaches, redwood forests, Hollywood, Disneyland. These attractions are popular, exciting and generally family-friendly. They can also be crowded and expensive. Not to mention the fact that if you’re an RVer from California (like me), you’ve probably explored many of these popular destinations already. Maybe you don’t... Continue reading →

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]]> Camille Attell California has so much to offer: beaches, redwood forests, Hollywood, Disneyland. These attractions are popular, exciting and generally family-friendly. They can also be crowded and expensive. Not to mention the fact that if you’re an RVer from California (like me), you’ve probably explored many of these popular destinations already. Maybe you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a vacation. Or perhaps you’re looking to get off the the beaten path anyway. If a more economical and unique experience sounds right up your alley, then check out this interesting area of California that is often underestimated but equally worth visiting.

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How To Go Off The Beaten Track In Southern California’s Inland Desert

Southern California’s inland low desert may not be a classic “bucket list destination,” but it is an interesting region that offers a range of activities and attractions — from hiking and camping to sightseeing and fascinating culture. I’ve focused on three specific areas that you can visit within three to four days. Some are beautiful, others are strange; all are totally worth a visit for the RV adventurer who’s “been there, done that.” Enjoy!
• Anza Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs
• The Salton Sea
• Salvation Mountain and Slab City

Some Travel Advice:

If you own or rent a small RV (like a Class B van), you can easily drive to each location. If you’re driving a large RV, you may want to tow a second vehicle to get around once you arrive in the area. Camping sites — both free and paid camping — are available in Anza-Borrego State Park and the surrounding area (you can find detailed information about camping in the area here). Some friends and I boondocked in this area over New Years Eve. For advice on how to find free camping and boondocking sites, check out my article “How To Find Free And Inexpensive RV Camping.” This area of California can get hot and dry in the summer months, so I highly advise that you plan your trip for the winter or spring. In the spring you might even get to experience some lovely wildflowers!

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Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is located on the eastern side of San Diego County with portions extending east into Imperial Valley and north into Riverside County. It’s the largest state park in California and the second largest state park in the country. The park is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including wildflowers, palm trees and various cacti. You might catch a glimpse of a road runner (like we did) foxes or eagles. If you’re really lucky you could even spot some bighorn sheep! (Fun fact: Borrego is actually the Spanish name for bighorn sheep.) The village of Borrego Springs is nearby. You can go to the visitor center for information and eat lunch at one of the local restaurants. One of my favorites is called The Red Ocotillo, which offers traditional Mexican and American fare for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Another surprise delight of this area are the more than 100 metal structures dotting the desert. These massive structures — which include wild horses, mammoths and even a dragon — were created by Mexican artist Ricardo Breceda. They are a must-see if you are in the area. Take a drive around Borrego Valley and marvel at the beauty of the sculptures against the backdrop of the vast desert and bright blue sky. There is so much to see and do here, I recommend taking two full days to explore everything if you can.

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The Salton Sea



If you Google the Salton Sea, you’ll probably see headlines like “From Relaxing Resort to Skeleton-Filled Wasteland.” Not the most alluring description, to be sure. So why am I recommending the area as a destination? For one thing, there is real beauty hidden amid the desolation. Case in point: the amazing photo (above) that my friend and travel photographer William Trinkle took when he brought me out for a photography lesson. Another reason to go: adventure. This article is about going off the beaten path, remember? The surrounding areas are desolate and downtrodden, yes. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go. It’s a real adventure — which I believe are the ones worth taking. For example, the town of Bombay Beach is economically disadvantaged and eerily quiet, yet it has a storied history. The Ski Inn is the one restaurant in town and is worth checking out — I had one of the best ortega burgers I’ve ever eaten there.

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Salvation Mountain And Slab City

Of all the places in the area to visit, I think that Salvation Mountain and Slab City in Niland are by far the most unique. You’ll like this area if you’re into art, odd creations and alternative housing. Salvation Mountain was created by visionary and artist Leonard Night after a childhood dream and a spiritual awakening. It is made mostly of “junk” and latex paint, which sounds weird but is really something to behold (and hey, I told you some of these destinations were strange!). Nearby is a community called Slab City. If you’re used to destinations like Disneyland, beware: This is no theme park. Also called “The Slabs,” the community is built on the site of the former World War II Marine Corp barracks of Camp Dunlap. The slabs of concrete were left behind, which is how “Slab City” got its name. This may be the last truly “free living” community in the United States. There is no charge for camping, but there are also no services. While some inhabitants are snowbirds who come to the area in the winter because it’s free, there are a few hundred permanent residents who live there due to financial hardships. Some of the RVs have been there for years, and sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between an old and abandoned RV. But look beyond the surface, because what you’ll also find is art, creativity and beauty. The people who live in Slab City have created unique sites out of very little — like the fantastic display of found objects and junk art in the community called “East Jesus.” There are a few good restaurants in the area where you can grab a bite after a day of “sightseeing.” We ate at Archie’s Place, a Mexican restaurant in nearby Calipatria. I’m a sucker for a good chile relleno and they did not disappoint!

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Summary

I recommended a few places that might surprise you. Why would you consider taking time off and spending your hard-earned money on off-the-beaten path places in the low desert of California? Because, in short, it’s a cost-effective way to see some really unique places, inject a healthy dose of strangeness into your travels and have a truly memorable experience. These destinations may also expand your thinking about the state of California, which is thought of as a wealthy state “where all the rich people live”. That isn’t the case everywhere. No, it isn’t Disneyland. But in this area of California, you’ll experience some stunning landscapes, diverse nature, art, history and people who have created communities that are equally deserving of your time.

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Intrigued? Rent an RV on Campanda and start planning your own weird and wonderful RV adventure today!

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