Top RV-Friendly Destinations for Your Next Family Road Trip

One of the best aspects of RV travel is the freedom to explore new places, from national parks to hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a month-long road trip, finding RV-friendly destinations is key to making your family trip a success. These destinations offer stunning natural beauty, ample amenities, and the kind of adventure your family will cherish. Here are some of the top RV-friendly destinations that are perfect for your next family road trip.

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is a bucket-list destination for RV travelers, offering diverse landscapes, wildlife, and a wide range of activities for the whole family. Known for its geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful, Yellowstone is full of natural wonders that will amaze your kids and provide plenty of opportunities for family bonding.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
Yellowstone has several RV-friendly campgrounds with amenities like electrical hookups, water, and restrooms. You’ll be able to explore geysers, hot springs, and hiking trails, all while enjoying the comfort of your RV at night. Families can also spot wildlife like bison, elk, and even bears (from a safe distance). The park’s vastness means there’s something for everyone to enjoy, whether it’s fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the campfire.

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

For families who love coastal beauty combined with mountain views, Acadia National Park in Maine is the perfect destination. With its rugged coastline, scenic drives, and accessible hiking trails, it’s a place where everyone can enjoy nature without feeling overwhelmed.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
Acadia’s campgrounds are RV-friendly, and there are sites with full hookups as well as primitive camping options. The park offers a variety of activities such as cycling on the carriage roads, tidepooling at Bar Harbor, or enjoying the park’s many easy-to-moderate hikes with breathtaking views. With Acadia’s proximity to the charming town of Bar Harbor, families can also enjoy local shops, fresh seafood, and unique attractions.

3. The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., and for good reason. With its stunning mountain views, diverse wildlife, and ample family-friendly hiking options, it’s an ideal place to escape into nature.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
The Great Smoky Mountains offers several campgrounds that can accommodate RVs, many with electric and water hookups. The park is home to beautiful hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes for older kids. You can also explore Cades Cove, where you may spot wildlife like deer and black bears. Additionally, the nearby towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer family attractions like Dollywood and amusement parks, making it a perfect mix of outdoor adventure and entertainment.

4. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park, located in Southern California, is a magical desert destination known for its otherworldly landscapes, giant boulders, and, of course, the iconic Joshua trees. This is a perfect destination for families who are looking to explore unique desert terrain while still having easy access to amenities.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
The park has a number of campgrounds that accommodate RVs, including some with full hookups. Families can explore hiking trails, rock climbing areas, and star-gazing opportunities in the park. Kids will love seeing the park’s fascinating rock formations and unique desert flora. Don’t miss the Cholla Cactus Garden or a visit to the Barker Dam for a fun family adventure.

5. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is a must-see for any traveler, and there’s no better way to experience it than with an RV. Known for its vast, breathtaking views, the Grand Canyon offers plenty of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
Grand Canyon National Park has multiple campgrounds that can accommodate RVs, many with modern amenities like water and electric hookups. Families can enjoy a scenic drive along the canyon’s South Rim, visit the Yavapai Point for panoramic views, and take a ranger-led program to learn about the park’s history. Older kids might enjoy hiking down part of the South Kaibab Trail or taking a helicopter tour to see the canyon from above. Don’t forget to stop at the Grand Canyon Railway for a fun family outing.

6. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs, beautiful canyons, and rugged terrain, is another RV-friendly destination that’s perfect for families. Whether you’re looking for challenging hikes or more laid-back exploration, Zion offers something for everyone.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
Zion’s South Campground offers RV-friendly sites, and the nearby Watchman Campground has sites with electrical hookups. Families can take part in easier hikes like the Riverside Walk or the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, or for more adventurous families, the Angels Landing hike offers breathtaking views (although it’s not for the faint of heart). Zion is also known for its stunning slot canyons, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the area’s geology and wildlife.

7. San Juan Islands, Washington

For families looking for a peaceful retreat in the Pacific Northwest, the San Juan Islands offer a combination of natural beauty, charming towns, and RV-friendly campgrounds. This island chain is perfect for families who enjoy water activities and laid-back exploration.

Why It’s Perfect for Families:
While the islands are typically accessed by ferry, there are campgrounds on Orcas Island and San Juan Island that accommodate RVs. Families can enjoy whale watching, kayaking, and exploring the quaint town of Friday Harbor. The islands are also home to a variety of parks and outdoor spaces, including Moran State Park on Orcas Island, which features beautiful hikes, lakes for fishing, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Start Planning Your RV Adventure

The perfect family road trip starts with choosing the right destination, and these RV-friendly spots offer everything you need for a memorable adventure. Whether your family enjoys hiking in the mountains, exploring desert landscapes, or relaxing by the coast, there’s an RV destination that’s just right for you. So pack up the RV, hit the road, and create lasting memories with your loved ones in some of the most beautiful places in the U.S.

How to Choose the Right RV for Your Family

Choosing the right RV for your family can make or break your road trip experience. With so many options available, it’s important to find an RV that fits your family’s needs, budget, and travel style. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, the right RV will ensure comfort, convenience, and fun for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you select the best RV for your family.

1. Consider the Size of Your Family

The first thing to consider when choosing an RV is the size of your family. You’ll need enough space for everyone to sleep comfortably, store their belongings, and move around without feeling cramped.

How Many People Will Be Traveling?
Consider how many people will typically be in the RV. Most RVs are designed for either two people or a larger family, but it’s important to ensure there are enough beds and seating for everyone. Some RVs have bunk beds, convertible sofas, and dinettes that can be turned into sleeping spaces, while others may have designated sleeping areas for each family member.

Room for Everyone:
Look for an RV with adequate space to allow for privacy and relaxation. A model with a separate master bedroom or a motorhome with a slide-out can make a big difference in comfort.

2. Type of RV: Motorhome vs. Towable

There are two main types of RVs: motorhomes and towable RVs. Each offers its own set of benefits, so you’ll need to choose the one that fits your family’s travel style.

Motorhomes:
Motorhomes are all-in-one vehicles that combine both transportation and living space. These RVs are convenient for families who want to minimize the hassle of setting up camp or towing a trailer. They come in various sizes, from Class A (largest) to Class C (smaller and more compact). A motorhome can be ideal for families who want to quickly get on the road and enjoy the convenience of having everything in one vehicle.

Towable RVs (Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels):
Towable RVs are hitched to your vehicle and can be detached when you arrive at your destination. If your family enjoys exploring with a separate vehicle once you’re set up, a towable RV could be a great choice. Trailers are easier to maneuver, and fifth-wheel RVs provide more space and luxury. However, towing a trailer requires a suitable vehicle with enough towing capacity.

3. Sleeping Arrangements and Layout

Sleeping arrangements are one of the most important factors when choosing an RV for your family. You’ll want to make sure everyone has a comfortable place to sleep and that there’s enough room for everyone to rest after a long day of adventure.

Beds for Everyone:
Look for an RV with enough beds for each family member. Many family-friendly RVs offer bunk beds, fold-out sofas, or convertible dining areas. Some also have a master bedroom with a queen or king-size bed, and additional sleeping areas for kids or guests.

Layout Matters:
Consider the layout of the RV. Does it offer a good flow from the kitchen to the living area to the bathroom? Are there spaces where family members can relax or play games together? The best layouts maximize comfort while ensuring that the RV feels spacious, even when the whole family is inside.

4. Amenities and Features

The amenities you choose will greatly influence your family’s comfort during the trip. Depending on your family’s needs, look for RVs with features that make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Kitchen and Dining:
A well-equipped kitchen can save you money and make meal preparation easier, especially for families with dietary restrictions or picky eaters. Look for an RV with a full kitchen that includes a stove, microwave, refrigerator, and enough storage space for cooking utensils and supplies. Many RVs also have a dinette where the family can enjoy meals together.

Bathrooms:
Having a bathroom onboard is crucial for family comfort. Choose an RV with a bathroom that suits your family’s needs, whether it’s a full bath with a shower or a smaller half-bath. Some RVs even feature separate bathrooms for kids and adults.

Entertainment Options:
Long drives can get boring, especially for kids, so look for an RV with entertainment options like TVs, DVD players, and gaming systems. Many modern RVs have built-in entertainment systems that are perfect for keeping kids entertained during travel time.

5. Storage Space

Family trips often involve a lot of gear—clothes, camping equipment, toys, and other essentials. Ample storage space is a must when choosing the right RV.

Storage for Gear and Personal Items:
Look for an RV with plenty of cabinets, drawers, and closets for storing your family’s belongings. Many RVs also have exterior storage compartments that are perfect for larger items like bikes, camping chairs, or outdoor gear.

Organization:
Good storage not only provides space but also helps keep the RV organized. Consider adding extra organizational tools like bins or storage nets to maximize the space available.

6. Budget Considerations

The cost of an RV can vary greatly depending on its size, type, and features. It’s important to establish a budget before shopping to help you make the best decision for your family.

New vs. Used RVs:
New RVs come with all the latest features and warranties, but they can be expensive. Used RVs are a more affordable option, though they may require more maintenance. Consider your budget and whether you’d prefer a new, high-tech RV or a used model that still fits your family’s needs.

Operating Costs:
Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like insurance, fuel, campground fees, and maintenance. Make sure you have a realistic understanding of the ongoing expenses involved in owning and operating an RV.

Choose Wisely for Maximum Enjoyment

Choosing the right RV for your family is an important decision that will shape your travel experiences for years to come. By considering your family size, travel style, budget, and needs, you can select an RV that offers comfort, convenience, and fun. Whether you opt for a motorhome or a towable RV, prioritize features that will enhance your family’s comfort and enjoyment on the road. With the right RV, your family can make the most of every trip and create memories that last a lifetime.

The Benefits of RV Travel for Solo Travelers

Traveling alone can be an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing you to explore new places, meet new people, and gain valuable personal insights. For solo travelers, RVing provides a unique way to explore the world while maintaining independence and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adventurous road trip, RV travel offers numerous benefits for those traveling solo.

1. Flexibility and Freedom

One of the most appealing aspects of RV travel is the freedom it offers. As a solo traveler, you have complete control over your schedule and itinerary.

No Set Plans:
With an RV, you’re not confined to rigid schedules or hotel bookings. Want to stay longer at a stunning national park or take an unexpected detour to a quirky roadside attraction? You can.

Explore at Your Own Pace:
Whether you prefer leisurely days of sightseeing or the thrill of spontaneous exploration, RV travel lets you go at your own pace. You can sleep in, take a midday nap, or spend an entire day hiking or relaxing, all without worrying about meeting anyone else’s timeline.

This flexibility is perfect for solo travelers who may not want to rush or feel pressured to follow a group’s agenda.

2. Comfort and Safety

Traveling alone can sometimes feel daunting, but an RV provides both comfort and security, making it an ideal option for solo adventurers.

A Home on Wheels:
When traveling in an RV, you have all the comforts of home at your disposal—your own bed, bathroom, kitchen, and living space. This comfort allows for a more relaxed journey, especially when you’re far from home or camping in more remote areas.

Personal Safety:
RVing offers an added layer of safety compared to traditional solo travel methods like backpacking or staying in hostels. With your RV, you always have a safe space to return to, and it’s easier to lock up your belongings while you’re away exploring. Plus, RV parks and campgrounds are typically secure environments, providing peace of mind for solo travelers.

3. Social Opportunities

Though RVing is often associated with solitude, it also offers plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded travelers and connect with others.

Community of RVers:
Campgrounds, RV parks, and even national parks are filled with other travelers, making it easy to meet people along the way. Many RV parks have communal spaces, where you can join group activities, share tips with fellow travelers, or even enjoy campfire chats.

Group Meetups and Events:
If you enjoy socializing, there are often RVing-related events and meetups organized for solo travelers. These events provide a great opportunity to connect with others, share stories, and learn from experienced RVers.

Solo travel doesn’t mean being alone all the time. An RV allows you to enjoy time to yourself, while still being part of a larger community when you desire.

4. Financial Flexibility

Traveling solo can often be expensive, especially when you factor in accommodations, meals, and transportation. However, RV travel offers significant cost savings.

Save on Accommodation:
With an RV, you eliminate the need for hotel rooms or hostels, which can quickly add up, especially in popular tourist areas. Campgrounds and RV parks are typically more affordable than hotels, with many offering basic amenities at a fraction of the cost.

Self-Catering:
RV kitchens are fully equipped, which means you can cook your own meals and avoid expensive restaurants. Solo travelers can save a lot of money by preparing simple, healthy meals in their RV. Plus, having your own kitchen gives you more control over your food preferences and dietary needs.

5. Embrace the Outdoors

For solo travelers who love nature and outdoor activities, RVing is an excellent way to experience the great outdoors in comfort and style.

Access to National Parks and Wilderness Areas:
RVs allow you to camp and explore national parks, forests, and other outdoor destinations with ease. Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the scenery, an RV provides a convenient base camp for all your outdoor adventures.

Minimal Setup Required:
With an RV, there’s no need to spend time setting up tents or worrying about sleeping arrangements. Simply park your RV, step outside, and immerse yourself in nature. The ease of setup means you can focus more on exploring and enjoying the great outdoors.

6. Solo Travel with a Personal Touch

As a solo traveler, you often have to make adjustments to your travel style to accommodate your individual needs. RVing makes this process seamless.

Customize Your Experience:
From choosing your routes to deciding on which campsites to visit, RV travel lets you completely customize your experience. Want to spend a week by the beach? You can. Prefer the solitude of a forested campground? That’s entirely up to you. RVs offer a level of personalization that other forms of travel simply cannot.

Conclusion: Your Adventure Awaits

For solo travelers, RVing offers the perfect balance of freedom, comfort, safety, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to embark on a cross-country road trip or spend a weekend in a nearby national park, traveling by RV allows you to explore at your own pace while providing a home-like atmosphere on the road.

With so many opportunities for personal growth, social interaction, and outdoor exploration, RVing is an ideal choice for those traveling alone. Ready to begin your solo RV adventure? Hit the road and create unforgettable memories along the way.

Essential RV Gear Every Traveler Needs

Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or new to the world of RV travel, having the right gear is crucial to making your journey comfortable and stress-free. The beauty of RV travel is that you can bring almost everything you need with you, but ensuring you’re properly equipped with the essentials will make your adventures more enjoyable. Here’s a list of must-have RV gear every traveler should have.

1. RV Leveling Blocks

One of the first things you’ll need to do when you park your RV is to level it. A stable RV ensures comfort and safety, especially when you’re using the kitchen, bathroom, or sleeping.

Why You Need Them:
Uneven ground can cause your RV to sway, making cooking and sleeping less enjoyable. Leveling blocks help you achieve the perfect balance quickly.

Recommended Gear:
Look for adjustable blocks that stack easily, such as the Camco Heavy Duty Leveling Blocks. These are durable, stackable, and designed to support the weight of your RV.

2. RV Sewer Hose Kit

Managing waste in your RV is essential, and you’ll need a high-quality sewer hose kit to safely empty your tanks when you’re at a campsite with full hookups.

Why You Need It:
A well-made hose ensures that waste is disposed of safely and efficiently, and a poorly maintained or cheap hose can cause leaks or spills.

Recommended Gear:
The RhinoFLEX 15-Foot Sewer Hose Kit by Camco is highly rated for its durability, ease of use, and included swivel fittings. Make sure to also have a sewer hose support to ensure a steady slope for proper drainage.

3. Portable Power Station

Running out of power on the road can be a real hassle, especially when you’re off the grid or camping in remote locations. A portable power station allows you to keep your devices charged and your essentials running.

Why You Need It:
Many modern RVs come with built-in power systems, but having a backup portable power station can save you in emergencies, or when you’re boondocking without electrical hookups.

Recommended Gear:
Consider a Goal Zero Yeti 500X Portable Power Station. It provides enough juice to power small appliances, lights, and electronics for hours, and it can be recharged via solar panels for added convenience during longer stays in nature.

4. Outdoor Rug

Setting up an outdoor living space makes a big difference in your RV experience, and a quality outdoor rug can enhance your campsite.

Why You Need It:
An outdoor rug offers a place to sit, relax, and even eat outside while keeping dirt and debris from being tracked into your RV. It also creates a more welcoming and comfortable space for you and your family to enjoy nature.

Recommended Gear:
The RecPro RV Outdoor Patio Rug is a popular option, offering durability and easy cleaning. Choose one with drainage holes to prevent water from collecting underneath, keeping the area dry and comfortable.

5. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Keeping an eye on your RV’s tire pressure is essential for safety and optimal performance. A tire blowout can ruin a trip, so having a monitoring system will give you peace of mind.

Why You Need It:
Proper tire pressure not only extends the life of your tires but also improves fuel efficiency and handling. A TPMS allows you to monitor tire pressure and temperature while you’re on the road, providing early warnings before a problem arises.

Recommended Gear:
The TST 507 Tire Pressure Monitoring System is an excellent choice, offering real-time monitoring for up to 10 tires, with both visual and audible alerts when there’s an issue.

6. Hitch Lock

If you’re towing a trailer or fifth wheel, a hitch lock is an important security feature to protect your RV and your belongings.

Why You Need It:
Hitch locks prevent theft by securely locking the hitch and deterring thieves from taking your trailer when you’re not around.

Recommended Gear:
Look for a Master Lock 2866DAT Trailer Hitch Lock. It’s made of durable, weather-resistant materials and provides a solid deterrent against theft.

7. Camping Chairs and Table

Comfortable outdoor seating and a functional table will improve your camping experience, allowing you to enjoy meals or relax by the fire.

Why You Need Them:
While your RV may be cozy inside, the outdoors is where you’ll spend a lot of your time. A comfortable chair and a table for meals or games add a layer of comfort to your campsite setup.

Recommended Gear:
The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker is a favorite for RV campers, offering a comfortable chair with sturdy support. Pair it with a Coleman Camping Table, which provides a stable surface for cooking, eating, or playing games.

8. Solar Panels

Solar panels are a game-changer for RVers who want to stay off the grid. They allow you to generate your own electricity, reducing the need for external power sources and enhancing your camping experience.

Why You Need Them:
Solar power is eco-friendly and can provide enough electricity to power lights, appliances, and devices without needing to rely on campground hookups.

Recommended Gear:
The Renogy 200-Watt Solar Panel Kit is a solid choice, offering easy installation and efficient power generation for most RVs.

Conclusion: Be Prepared for Any Adventure

Having the right RV gear can transform your travels from good to great. With essential tools like leveling blocks, a reliable sewer hose, and a portable power station, you’ll be prepared for anything the road throws your way. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned RV traveler, investing in quality gear ensures your adventures are as comfortable, safe, and enjoyable as possible.

Ready to hit the road? Make sure your RV is properly equipped with these essentials and start planning your next adventure today! Get an amazing RV today!

Why RVing Is Perfect for Family Vacations

Family vacations are about creating lasting memories, exploring new places, and spending quality time together. While traditional travel methods like flights or hotels have their perks, RVing offers a unique and flexible experience that’s perfect for families. Here’s why more families are hitting the road in RVs for their next big adventure.

1. Freedom and Flexibility

RV travel offers unparalleled freedom to plan your trip your way.

Set Your Schedule: Unlike flights or cruises, you’re not tied to rigid timetables. Want to stay an extra day at the beach or make an impromptu stop at a roadside attraction? No problem.

Choose Your Destination: From national parks to theme parks, you can craft a vacation that suits your family’s interests. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures or urban exploration, your RV can take you there.

This level of flexibility is ideal for families with kids, as it allows you to adapt to changing needs and interests.

2. Budget-Friendly Travel

Vacations can be expensive, but RVing offers significant savings compared to traditional travel.

No Expensive Flights or Hotels: Your RV is both your transportation and your accommodation. Campsite fees are typically much cheaper than hotel stays, and you can save even more by staying in free or low-cost boondocking locations.

Cook Your Own Meals: Eating out every day adds up quickly. With an RV kitchen, you can prepare healthy, affordable meals, which is especially helpful for families with picky eaters.

For larger families, the cost savings of RV travel can be substantial, making it a budget-friendly way to see the country.

3. Quality Family Time

One of the best aspects of RVing is the opportunity to reconnect with your loved ones.

Shared Experiences: From setting up camp to roasting marshmallows by the fire, RVing creates countless opportunities for bonding.

Disconnect from Screens: Many RV destinations, like national parks and remote campgrounds, encourage you to unplug and focus on spending time together. Hiking, fishing, or simply enjoying the scenery are great ways to create memories that will last a lifetime.

RV trips allow families to slow down and truly enjoy each other’s company in a way that other vacations often can’t.

4. Adventure at Your Fingertips

RVs open the door to a world of adventure, especially for families who love the outdoors.

Explore National Parks: Visit iconic destinations like Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon, where you can hike, bike, or enjoy ranger-led programs designed for kids.

Beach or Lake Getaways: With an RV, you can camp steps away from the water, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing in the sun.

Unique Attractions: From quirky roadside stops to family-friendly amusement parks, RVing allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations that create one-of-a-kind memories.

Your RV serves as a home base, making it easy to transition from one adventure to the next without the hassle of packing and unpacking.

5. Comfort and Convenience

Traveling with kids often means packing a lot of gear, and RVs make it easy to bring everything you need for a comfortable trip.

Plenty of Storage: From bikes to board games, RVs provide ample space for all your family’s essentials.

A Home Away from Home: With your own beds, bathroom, and kitchen, RV travel eliminates the stress of hotel check-ins or finding kid-friendly restaurants. Plus, having a familiar environment can help younger kids feel more secure while on the road.

The convenience of RVing makes it especially appealing for families with young children or those who prefer a more relaxed pace of travel.

Tips for a Successful Family RV Trip

To make the most of your family RV vacation, keep these tips in mind:

• Plan Ahead: Reserve campsites early, especially during peak seasons.
• Involve the Kids: Let them help plan activities or choose destinations to keep them engaged.
• Pack Smart: Bring games, books, and outdoor gear to keep everyone entertained.
• Stay Flexible: Embrace the unexpected—it’s part of the adventure!

Conclusion: Make Your Next Vacation an RV Adventure

RVing is more than just a mode of travel; it’s a lifestyle that fosters connection, exploration, and fun for the whole family. With the freedom to choose your destinations, control your budget, and enjoy quality time together, RVing is an ideal way to create unforgettable family memories.

Ready to hit the road? Start planning your next family RV adventure today and discover why so many families are choosing RV travel for their vacations. Get an amazing RV today!

Top 5 Tips for Maintaining Your RV

Owning an RV comes with the freedom to explore the open road, but it also requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. Neglecting maintenance can lead to costly repairs and cut short your adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or a first-time owner, these five essential tips will help you maintain your RV and enjoy worry-free travels.

1. Inspect Your RV Regularly

Routine inspections are key to identifying and addressing potential problems before they become serious.

What to Check:

• Exterior: Look for cracks, dents, or leaks in the roof, seams, and windows.
• Tires: Check tire pressure and inspect for wear and tear before every trip.
• Interior: Test appliances, lights, and outlets, and inspect for signs of water damage or mold.

Regularly inspecting your RV ensures that you catch issues early, preventing costly repairs down the road.

2. Keep Up with Roof Maintenance

Your RV’s roof is its first line of defense against the elements, so keeping it in good condition is crucial.

Maintenance Tips:

• Clean the roof regularly to remove debris, dirt, and tree sap.
• Inspect the seals and seams for cracks or deterioration. Use sealant as needed to prevent leaks.
• Consider applying a protective UV coating to extend the life of your roof material.

Neglecting roof maintenance can lead to leaks and water damage, which are expensive and time-consuming to fix.

3. Maintain Your RV’s Plumbing System

Your RV’s plumbing system is vital for comfort on the road, so proper care is essential.

Key Steps:

• Use RV-friendly toilet paper to prevent clogs.
• Regularly empty and clean your black and gray water tanks.
• Sanitize your freshwater tank every few months to ensure clean drinking water.

Plumbing issues can be some of the most unpleasant to deal with, so proactive maintenance is a must.

4. Take Care of the Engine and Chassis

For motorized RVs, the engine and chassis are the heart of your vehicle. Regular maintenance will keep your RV running reliably.

What to Do:

• Change the oil and replace filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Check fluid levels (coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid) regularly.
• Inspect the battery and ensure the connections are clean and secure.
• Schedule annual maintenance with a qualified mechanic to address more complex issues.

Neglecting engine care can leave you stranded in the middle of your journey, so don’t skip these critical steps.

5. Protect Your RV When Not in Use

Proper storage is just as important as on-the-road maintenance. How you store your RV during off-seasons can impact its longevity.

Storage Tips:

• Cover Your RV: Use a high-quality RV cover to protect against sun damage, rain, and debris.
• Winterize Your RV: If storing your RV in colder months, drain the water system, add antifreeze, and seal any openings to prevent pests from getting inside.
• Tire Care: Use tire covers to protect against UV damage and consider moving the RV slightly every few months to prevent flat spots.

Protecting your RV during storage ensures it’s ready to go when the travel season begins again.

Bonus Tip: Create a Maintenance Schedule

Staying organized is key to keeping your RV in great shape. Create a maintenance schedule that outlines weekly, monthly, and seasonal tasks. This will help you stay on top of inspections, cleanings, and repairs.

Why RV Maintenance Matters

Taking care of your RV isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns; it’s about preserving your investment and ensuring the safety of you and your passengers. With regular maintenance, your RV will remain reliable, efficient, and ready for your next adventure.

Conclusion: Hit the Road with Confidence

RV maintenance may seem overwhelming at first, but with these tips and a proactive mindset, it becomes manageable. By regularly inspecting your RV, maintaining the roof and plumbing, caring for the engine, and protecting it during storage, you’ll be set for years of exciting travels.

Ready to hit the road? Start by giving your RV a thorough inspection and creating a maintenance plan. A little effort today will save you time, money, and stress tomorrow. Safe travels!

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7 Essential RV Slideout Maintenance Tasks You Should Be Doing

Keep Things Operating Smoothly With These Essential RV Slideout Maintenance Tips

RV slideouts offer an easy way to add square footage to your RV, usually just by pressing a toggle switch. When you’re ready to move on, you just press the other side of the toggle switch and the slide comes back into the RV so you can get on your way. That said, a little routine slideout maintenance can keep them operating smoothly.

However, most seasoned RVers can recall at least one time that the RV slideout didn’t want to come back in. Usually all that was required was a little love and attention to get them moving again, but sometimes it requires the services of an RV technician. Problems happen because we often don’t think about slideout motors and mechanisms until they give us a problem. That said, the two keys to keeping your RV slideouts working reliably are a proper care and a little routine maintenance. In this article, we’ll take a look at six essential RV slideout maintenance tips to help keep your RV slideouts extending and retracting for a lifetime.

Key Components of an RV Slideout

Knowing what the key components of a slideout are, and how each of them works helps us to understand why care and maintenance are so important to their function.

• The slide room The slideout, including its roof and furniture.
• One or two small electric motors (depending on the size of the slide room)
• The slideout mechanisms
  • Rack and pinion – This system is recognizable by having two steel arms beneath the slideout
  • Schwintek – This system is recognizable by having two long, zipper-like gears at either end of the slideout.
  • Cable– This slideout system isn’t as popular as the other two, but cables on both ends of the slideout make it easy to recognize.
• The slideout seal– Slideout seals are flexible rubber seals that help keep rain, wind, and insects from getting into the RV. The flat part of the lide out seal faces the interior of the RV when the slideout is retracted. When the slideout extends this seal flips to face outward, so it can keep outdoor elements outside the RV.

6 Tips for RV Slideout Maintenance and Care

1: Always level the RV before extending slideouts

When the RV is on an angle (even a slight one), the slideout motor has to work extra hard to get the slideout out or in. That said, even if you can get the slideouts in or out when your RV isn’t level, you’ll shorten the slideout motor lifespan.

2. Don’t overload slideouts

Just like your RV, your RV slideouts have a cargo carrying capacity. If you exceed this capacity when your slideouts are extended, you may find yourself hiring an RV technician to fix them one day. Overloading the slideouts is easy to do because the excess weight can come from people, the new furniture you bought to replace the stock furniture in the slideout, gear, clothing or food. Too much weight can burn out the slideout motor and/or the slideout’s mechanical components as well as damaging the slide room itself.

3. Nobody should be in the slideout while it’s extending or retracting

RV slideouts are designed to extend and retract with a certain weight in them. Operating them with additional weight from occupants is hard on the slide components. This can eventually lead to failure of the motor or other components.

4. Lubricate all moving components at least three times per year

As a general rule RV slideouts operate best when mechanical components are kept lubricated with dry lubricant (like silicone). Lubrication should be done 3 -4 times per year. This is not where you want to use lubricants like WD40 or any kind of grease. This is because these popular lubricants can attract dust and other debris. No matter what slideout system you have, you’ll want to lubricate all moving parts on the slideout mechanism. On Schwintek system lubricate the gear teeth on the two bars at each end of the slideout. If your RV has a rack and pinion system: You’ll need to get under the slideout and lubricate both the racks and the pinions. On a cable system, lubricate the visible cables.

5. Keep rubber seals soft and supple with slideout seal conditioner

Slideout seals help keep rain, wind and bugs out of your RV. In order to perform this function, they need to be soft and supple. Foaming slideout seal conditioner is designed to do just this, so it’s the perfect product to use for this application.

6. Keep slideout roofs clear of debris and snow

You might be surprised at how much dirt and debris collects on slideout during a camping trip. Retracting the slideout in with this stuff on it will eventually wreck the horizontal seal at of the top of the RV slideout. Therefore, before you bring your slideout in, it’s a good idea to sweep the slideout off.

Snow accumulation on roof of the slideout can result in a layer of ice. This can prevent the slideout from from functioning normally. It’s important to clear any snow from slideout roofs before it can accumulate.

7. Keep slideout mechanisms clean and free of debris

Dirt and debris can interfere with slideout function. Before you bring the slideouts in, be sure to make sure that the mechanisms are clean and free of twigs, leaves or other debris.

8. Store your RV with the slideouts retracted

Storing your RV with slideouts extended exposes them to the elements. This can lead to damage to the slideout mechanisms and seals as well as interior of the slide room. With that said, it’s good practice to store your RV with the slideouts in.

RV Slideout Maintenance and Care Keeps Slideouts Running Smoothly

RV slideouts add a lot more square footage and livability to your RV. That said, they’re designed to offer years of trouble-free service and you should never have to worry about a stuck slideout. With just a little care and maintenance, they should last the lifetime of your RV.

The post 7 Essential RV Slideout Maintenance Tasks You Should Be Doing appeared first on RV LIFE.

How to Establish an Address When You Travel Full-time in Your RV

Tips and Tricks Full-time RVers use to Maintain an Address

Whether you’ve decided to travel full time in an RV, or you’re still sitting on the fence about it, there are two questions that have probably popped into your mind. One of these questions is how you’ll get mail when you live on the road. And the other is how to get a domicile (or residential) address for things like obtaining a driver’s license, voter registration, or other state-provided services. In this article we’ll look at different ways you to have both a residential address and mail delivery, wherever you happen to be.

8 Methods for Getting an Address When Your Home is the Open Road

1. Get a USPS or Canada Post Office Box

If you already have a post office box (PO box), you can keep renewing it, and then have mail forwarded to general delivery at a post office wherever you go. If you don’t already have a PO box, you can use general delivery at the nearest post office. In the USA, call the post office where you want to pick up mail and ask if it offers general delivery service. In Canada, go to the nearest post office in person, speak with the postmaster, and request an application for general delivery service. In Canada, travelers can receive mail for up to four months at any post office, free of charge.

2. Get a private mailbox and a UPS address

UPS stores are often conveniently located and they offer mailboxes. Not only that, but when you get a UPS mailbox, they provide you with a street address that includes your box number. The advantages of this option are that you get both a mailing address and a legitimate domicile address as well as perks like mail and package notifications and call-in mail checking. The downside is that UPS doesn’t offer free mail forwarding.

3. Use your RV park for an address

Many RV parks will accept delivery of mail for monthly or seasonal guests. So if you stay at an RV park for more than a few weeks at a time, you may be able to make use of this service. In addition, if you stay at a park for six months of a calendar year, you can use it as your domicile address.

5. Pick up Amazon parcels at Amazon Lockers or pick up desks

Amazon delivers to sites at RV parks, but in my experience, drivers sometimes have trouble finding campsites and your parcel can end up delayed for a day or more. Many times, it’s easier to have packages delivered to an Amazon locker or pick up location near you. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to Amazon.com/ulp/view
2. Click on Search near your current location
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to get your package delivered to a convenient location

6. If you reside in the US, establish a domicile address in Florida, South Dakota, or Texas

A domicile state is the state where you legally reside and where you register your vehicles, pay taxes, and vote. If you live in a traditional, sticks and bricks home, your domicile is where you live. However, for full-time RV travelers, it’s not so simple because each state has its own rules when it comes to residency. However, you’ll need to establish a domicile in order to remain compliant with tax liabilities, to access your right to vote, and generally access any government services. That said, Florida, South Dakota, and Texas stand out as favorites for full-time RVers.

Florida

There are a lot of advantages to having a domicile in Florida. Warm weather, no state income or estate taxes, and a large RV community are among them. However, in order to claim residency, Florida has a whole host of requirements because they want to make sure you really want to live there.

Requirements for getting a domicile in Florida:

1. Live in Florida most of the year
2. File a Florida Declaration of Domicile
3. Obtain a Florida driver’s license
4. Register Your Vehicle(s) in Florida
5. Register to Vote in Florida
6. File a final resident income tax return in your present home state
7. Begin filing non-resident, income tax returns in your home state
8. Have a residence in Florida
9. Change mailing address on account statements to Florida

South Dakota

South Dakota requires proof of 24-hour residency to establish a domicile. This RV-friendly state also offers other perks, too. A lack of state income tax, low vehicle registration fees, and straightforward residency requirements are among them. Also, many mail forwarding services are based in South Dakota.

Texas

Texas has a lot of appeal as a domicile state for full-time RV travelers. That said, Texas is a popular choice due to its lack of state income tax, relatively low property taxes in some areas, and the presence of mail-forwarding services that cater specifically to RVers. Escapees RV club is based in Livingston, Texas and it offers both mail forwarding and domicile services to members.

Requirements For Getting a Domicile In Texas

• Establish a Texas address
• Register your vehicle in Texas
• Obtain a Texas driver’s license
• Register to vote in Texas

8. Use a friend’s or relative’s address for an address

Last but not least, you can always use the address of a trusted friend or family member for either a domicile or mailing address. Of course, it goes without saying that you should ask them first. The downside to this is that people move, and they can also get tired of forwarding your mail to you.

Conclusion

Even with the unfettered freedom full-time RV life offers, you’ll always need an address. Although we’re living in a digital age where nearly everything can be done online, we still get both mail and parcels from time to time. In addition, having address allows us to access government services like voter registration, or vehicle registration and licensing. However, having an address doesn’t have to tie you down to a single location. Having a PO Box, a mail-forwarding service, and carefully choosing a domicile state that suits your needs allows you to have the best of both worlds. You can enjoy full freedom to explore and connect with the world around you, while still getting mail and enjoying voting and government services. Don’t let the address dilemma hold you back from your full-time RV dreams!

The post How to Establish an Address When You Travel Full-time in Your RV appeared first on RV LIFE.

Oceanside Camping at Winchester Bay RV Resort

Now that the weather is warming up, the West coast is calling to all RVers! Many people flock toward harbors and beaches during their summer road trips and there is no shortage of options. But if your journeys take you into the state of Oregon, you’ll definitely want to check out Winchester Bay RV Resort.

This park has stellar reviews from its guests and it has an excellent location. You’ll be able to camp right along the water’s edge, while still enjoying a bit of natural protection from the open ocean. This bay is scenic and it has its own marina and beaches. Wildlife also abounds in this area, so be sure to bring your fishing pole and bird-watching binoculars with you!

Oregon is full of beautiful campgrounds, so you may wonder why we would highlight this one above all others. Well, you’ll have to read on to learn more! But rest assured that this park has a well-earned reputation from critics and campers alike. Let’s find out why!

Overview

The Winchester Bay RV Resort is located in Winchester Bay, Oregon, just outside of Reedsport, and in between the coastal cities of Coos Bay and Florence. So if you plan to drive along the West coast, there’s a good chance this campground will be on your route.

The titular Winchester Bay is nestled in the bend where the Umpqua River meets the Pacific Ocean. This mix of saltwater and freshwater attracts all kinds of wildlife, plus it’s the perfect place for water-sports enthusiasts to launch their boats. Several public parks surround this campground, including Harbor Park, Sea Ranch Park, and Ork Rock Park. And those are just the ones in the immediate vicinity! There are countless opportunities to appreciate the local environment when you stay here.

Winchester Bay RV Resort is a fairly large park, with a grand total of 138 RV sites. Many of these have a clear view of the water, but there are a few rings of interior sites as well. There is also a separate camping ring on The Point that offers more secluded sites and larger waterfront sites. These options are all priced according to their size and position within the park, so if you’re looking for a most budget-friendly option, an interior site is a good way to save a few bucks!

Speaking of rates, let’s talk about what you can expect here. This park is open all year long, but it offers significantly discounted prices spanning from October to May. Fewer people want to camp seaside once the temperature drops, after all! The average nightly rates are as follows (Summer/Winter both listed):

• Small Interior: $57/$44 per night
• Large Interior: $71/$47 per night
• Waterfront: $78/$51 per night
• Super Sites: $155/$101 per night
• Point Small Interior: $74/$54 per night
• Point Large Interior: $88/$63 per night
• Point Waterfront: $94/$68 per night
• Waterfront Deluxe: $103/$74 per night
• Waterfront Super Site: $184/$135 per night
• Deluxe Super Site: $195/$147 per night

As you can see, the prices are quite reasonable for an oceanside RV resort! And if you stop by during the cooler months, you’ll get an even better deal. Ten rental cabins are also located on the property, ranging from $100–$170 per night depending on which one you choose and when you book your stay.

If you would like to view the full campground map and/or make a reservation to stay here, visit the official campground website at winchesterbayresort.com

Amenities

An RV park without any amenities is just a parking lot! But at Winchester Bay RV Resort, they take comfort seriously and have provided plenty of facilities and amenities to help every visitor have a pleasant stay.

For starters, all RV sites come with full hookups. There’s no need to dry camp here! Each one also comes with its own picnic table, BBQ pit, and paved parking spot. Many of the sites are pull-through, so it’s easy to get in and out of your spot without making a lot of adjustments. Firewood and ice are also available at the resort office, so feel free to stop by if you need to refill your supplies.

The Wi-Fi here can be a little spotty, but most cell phone carriers have reported excellent service speed in this location.

Several restrooms and shower facilities are located throughout the park. These are all code-access only for extra security and they also include laundry machines so you can keep your wardrobe fresh and clean. RV/boat storage space is located on-site as well, which is handy for guests with bulky gear that won’t fit in their campsite.

This is also a campground that’s accessible to everyone. Most of the sites and facilities are wheelchair-accessible and the grounds are paved and level. There’s also plenty of space for children and pets to get their energy out! Visitors may enjoy the playground, the putting green, and the 1-mile walking path that runs along the water’s edge.

And if you’re looking for the perfect group venue, head to the Marina Activity Center (MAC). This building is located on the point, so it has unobstructed views of the water from multiple angles. With its spacious indoor and outdoor areas, it’s perfect for hosting large groups and events.

Some popular features at the MAC include the large group fire pit, the flat screen TV and speaker system, and the full kitchenette setup. Tables and chairs are available upon request as well. Any guest can visit these facilities (as long as they are not currently in use for a planned event). This clubhouse is perfect for family reunions, weddings, corporate events, or just casual activities with other campers!

Nearby Activities/Attractions

There’s plenty to do within Winchester Bay RV Resort, but the location also puts you in an ideal position to explore everything the Oregon coast has to offer. Those who love fresh-caught seafood will be in heaven — whether you catch it yourself or find it at a local restaurant! There are opportunities for crabbing within walking distance of the campground, so be sure to bring those claw crackers. Salmon and rockfish are also common in the area and fishermen can score some massive catches.

Seafood aside, this section of the coast is gorgeous. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Umpqua Lighthouse, ride around the sand dunes, and enjoy miles of walking/biking trails. During the right season, you may even spot whales in the nearby ocean!

Looking for something to do indoors? We’ve got your back! Learn about local history and culture at the Umpqua Discovery Center (It includes fun activities for the kids too!) Art aficionados may also appreciate the wine tasting and local art showcased at Mindpower Gallery or the woodworking wonders at Myrtlewood Gallery.

Don’t miss out on the local cuisine either! As we mentioned earlier, seafood is always on the menu around here. But even those who can’t stand the smell of fish can find something to love on this list of local favorites:

• Salmon Harbor Cafe & Mercantile
• Jackson’s Cafe Coffeehouse
• Griff’s On the Bay Restaurant
• Kismet’s Landing
• Don’s Main Street Family Restaurant
• Highwater Cafe & Market
• Harbor Light Restaurant

Reviews

Finally, let’s take a look at what the campers had to say. After all, the true metric of a campground’s quality is their level of customer satisfaction.

Fortunately, the reviews for the Winchester Bay RV Resort are glowing! Users of RV LIFE Campgrounds give it a stellar rating of 9.5/10. And that’s the cumulative result of more than 350 reviews, so you know it’s not just a few outliers who ranked it well. Nearly ever visitor rated it as “Excellent” (the highest score that could be given).

Campers report that this park is well-maintained and offers some truly gorgeous views. They also appreciated the full hookups and the location that put them close to several oceanside attractions and activities. The park landscaping and greenery was also mentioned several times, so you can rest assured that it looks just as good in-person as it does in the photos.

The only downsides that were mentioned were the things that were beyond anyone’s control, such as poor weather. Camping along the Oregon coast can expose you to some chilly ocean breezes, no matter what time of year you stop by. So be prepared to dress warm and secure your belongings so they don’t blow away.

If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, be sure to keep this resort on your list. It might just become your new favorite spot!

Related Articles:

• The Best Places To Go Whale Watching On The Oregon Coast
• Oceanside RV Resort: Enjoy A Relaxing Stay On The Oregon Coast
• 10 Best Places To Go Sea Kayaking On The West Coast

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Where Are the Best Campgrounds Near National Parks? Start Here

Sponsored by Thousand Trails

Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts Put You Closer to Nature Without Sacrificing Comfort

Some people drive to nature. RVers? We roll right up to it. If you’re searching for the best campgrounds near national parks, you don’t have to look far. Whether you’re craving misty mountain mornings, ocean-kissed breezes, or desert stargazing under ancient cliffs, these hand-picked campgrounds in the Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts family plant you just minutes from some of America’s most awe-inspiring national parks and forests.

What’s the Best Place to Camp Near Acadia National Park?

Acadia National Park is where rugged coastline meets quiet forest trails and granite peaks. From summiting Cadillac Mountain at sunrise to biking the historic carriage roads or tidepooling along the rocky shore, it’s a destination made for RVers who want a mix of adventure and serenity. And the good news? You don’t have to stay far from the park to soak up the views.

Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort

Perched right along the shoreline in Bar Harbor, Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort offers panoramic views of the Atlantic and easy access to both Acadia and downtown Bar Harbor. You can park your rig just steps from the ocean, then head out for a day of hiking and sightseeing.

On-site amenities include a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, Wi-Fi, game room, laundry, and a playground. Clean restroom and shower facilities and a small store make it easy to settle in for a longer stay.

“Good sized site, full hookups. Also had a bus stop for free rides Al [sic] around Arcadia National Park. So many places to see on the island and all are beautiful.”

Bblake57 | RV LIFE Campgrounds

Narrows Too RV Resort

Just down the road in Trenton, Narrows Too offers even more space and a lively community atmosphere. Many campsites feature sweeping ocean views. The campground hosts regular lobster bakes, live music, pancake breakfasts, candy bar bingo, and community s’mores nights.

This resort-style campground includes a heated swimming pool, dog park, picnic/BBQ areas, and services like Wi-Fi, laundry, and a store. It’s a great choice for RVers looking to mix Acadia hikes with some classic Maine-style fun by the fire.

Where Can RVers Stay Near Dry Tortugas National Park in the Florida Keys?

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote and spectacular destinations in the National Park system. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, it’s famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson. And while you can’t drive your RV to the park, you can stay nearby in the Florida Keys. Then make it a day trip from the comfort of your tropical basecamp.

Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina

Set on its own private island in Long Key, Fiesta Key is a scenic escape full of small touches that make a big difference. Park your RV right along the oceanfront. Enjoy drinks at the Tiki bar, and catch nightly live music or DJ sets without ever leaving the resort. Guests love the on-site restaurant Oceans 305, the heated pool and spa, and the marina rentals for exploring the open water.

There’s plenty of activity here: pickleball, snorkeling, fishing, volleyball, and even a dog run for your pup. But what sets Fiesta Key apart is the vibe: sunset views, friendly staff, and an attention to detail that makes each stay memorable. 

Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina

Looking for a bigger island experience? Sunshine Key, located on 75-acre Ohio Key, offers a classic Keys-style RV resort with room to stretch out and every amenity you could want. Guests can swim, fish, kayak, or just relax along the beachfront pier, all with the Gulf on one side and the Atlantic on the other.

This resort features a full-service marina and bait shop, kayak and paddleboard rentals, tennis and pickleball courts, and a jam-packed schedule of activities. You’ll find a heated pool, playground, high-speed internet, and even organized exercise classes. 

“Whether you are staying to enjoy the sunshine at your site or the small beach near the road and bridge or fishing/biking/kyaking [sic]/boating and visiting the nearby sites, this is an excellent location.”

DMMcHenry | RV LIFE Campgrounds

Where Is the Best RV Campground Near Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park is one of the most unique and biodiverse parks in the country. It’s home to mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, alligators, manatees, and an endless maze of waterways to explore. No matter if you’re paddling, hiking, or taking a classic airboat ride, you’ll want a convenient place to stay. And Miami Everglades RV Resort fits the bill perfectly.

Located just 10 miles from the national park entrance, this Encore resort offers RVers a tropical camping paradise tucked among avocado trees, palm groves, and colorful plant nurseries. It’s a peaceful setting that feels worlds away. But it’s still within easy reach of urban attractions like Miami’s Art Deco District, Coral Gables, and Bayside Marketplace.

Guests love the resort-style pool and hot tub, 18-hole mini golf course, and shady walking/biking trail that loops the property. There’s a packed schedule of activities, including movie nights, water aerobics, craft sessions, bingo, and jam sessions on the deck. With amenities like high-speed internet, pickleball courts, a dog park, shuffleboard, and a fully stocked store, this is one of the best RV campgrounds near Everglades National Park for travelers who want comfort, community, and convenience.

“Visited Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve and Biscayne National Park.”

Dogcrossroads | RV LIFE Campgrounds

What’s the Best RV Campground Near Mt. Hood National Forest?

With over a million acres of wilderness, rivers, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks, Mt. Hood National Forest is a must-visit.  Visitors hike to stunning viewpoints, ride mountain bikes through shady forest paths, or take in the historic charm of Timberline Lodge, where skiing and snowboarding are available year-round. And if you’re looking for the perfect home base nearby, it’s hard to beat Mt. Hood Village RV Resort.

Just outside the forest boundary, this wooded campground offers over 300 RV sites and a full lineup of amenities. Indoors, guests can enjoy a clubhouse, fitness center, jacuzzi, sauna, and more. Outdoors, you’ll find a sparkling swimming pool, scenic hiking trails, a playground, and games like badminton, horseshoes, and basketball. The campground also features Wi-Fi, a camp store, laundry facilities, and BBQ areas.

Beyond the resort, guests can explore 700+ hiking trails, lakes and streams, birdwatching, golfing, the Alpine Slide, and attend seasonal favorites like the Huckleberry Festival or Salmon-Mushroom Festival. It’s a quintessential Pacific Northwest escape.

“Great location for small excursions around Mt Hood.”

Gregormerritt | RV LIFE Campgrounds

Where Is the Best RV Campground Near Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite is one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., with granite cliffs, waterfalls, and high-country hikes that keep travelers coming back year after year. But landing a campsite inside the park itself can feel like winning the lottery. That’s why RVers love Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, located just 15 minutes from the entrance.

This lush, riverfront campground gives you easy access to Yosemite with the added bonus of a summer shuttle service. The on-site general store stocks groceries, firewood, everyday items, gasoline, and diesel, making it easy to stay well-supplied without leaving camp.

Other conveniences include Wi-Fi, coin-op laundry, and clean restrooms and showers. For downtime between national park adventures, you’ll find mini golf, basketball, volleyball, tetherball, croquet, billiards, a game room, and hiking and fishing options right at camp. Keep an eye out for the local deer family that likes to wander through the trees, just one of those small, peaceful touches that make Yosemite Lakes feel like a true getaway.

“…this may be the prettiest TT [Thousand Trails] park we’ve stayed in. It’s surrounded by mountains, has a river running through it, has a couple of walking trails, and is a short distance from Yosemite National Park.”

MooreAdventureInLife | RV LIFE Campgrounds

What’s the Best RV Campground Near Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is a desert dreamland of red rock cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and jaw-dropping overlooks. Whether you’re hiking The Narrows, climbing Angel’s Landing, or just soaking in the epic scenery, Zion delivers that larger-than-life national park experience. And you don’t have to stay far from it. St. George / Hurricane KOA puts you close to the action with a dose of local history, too.

Built on the site of a former ghost town, this KOA campground is located in southern Utah’s Color Country, offering dramatic landscapes and easy access to both Zion and nearby state parks. 

The property features a swimming pool, mini golf, laundry, restrooms and showers, and a playground, plus nature trails and BBQ picnic areas to enjoy the scenery right at camp. Inside, you’ll find a clubhouse, ballroom, and a full activities center offering everything from bingo and arts & crafts to potlucks.  It’s one of the best RV campgrounds near Zion National Park if you’re looking for a balance of rugged scenery and campground comfort.

Tips for Planning an RV Trip to Campgrounds Near National Parks

Plan your route with online tools like RV LIFE Trip Wizard to avoid steep mountain passes, tunnels, and tight turns. Use apps like RV LIFE GPS for safe navigation based on your rig’s size and weight, and to avoid backroads that may be scenic, but not RV-friendly. Check RV LIFE Campgrounds for site reviews, user-uploaded photos, and tips from real RVers who’ve stayed at each location. Reserve early. Even campgrounds outside the parks fill up fast, especially during spring, summer, and fall breaks. Plan to arrive early. Many campgrounds have specific check-in windows, and navigating after dark can be tricky in forested or rural areas. Pack smart for day trips. Many national parks have limited food options inside, so keep a cooler stocked, bring extra layers, and load up on fuel and snacks before heading in.

Wrapping Up the Best  Campgrounds Near National Parks

From coastal cliffs and coral reefs to alpine forests and desert canyons, these campgrounds near national parks let you stay close to the wild without giving up the comforts of your RV. Each resort offers its own unique blend of scenery, amenities, and proximity to bucket-list trails and landmarks. So all you have to do is pick a destination, pack the rig, and roll into adventure.

Planning a quick weekend getaway, an extended stay near the parks, or chasing scenic seasons year-round? Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts have you covered. With campgrounds near some of the most iconic national parks and forests in the country, it’s easy to turn your bucket-list destinations into comfortable, memory-filled adventures.

Explore campgrounds and book your adventure now!

The post Where Are the Best Campgrounds Near National Parks? Start Here appeared first on RV LIFE.

How to Set up a Travel Trailer for Extended RV Living

Transition Your Travel Trailer Into a Long-Term Home

People use RVs for a ton of different purposes. Sometimes they’re just a more convenient way to camp. Sometimes they’re the perfect vehicle for summer road trips. But some people make RVs into their full-time homes! This is why it’s good to know how to set up a travel trailer to live in for extended periods of time.

Because different people need different things from their RVs, there’s no perfect one-size-fits-all setup, but there are some things you can do to transition your travel trailer into a more permanent home. You’ll need to find ways to maximize storage, create an environment that you feel comfortable with, and decorate based on your own tastes. 

Again, this process is highly individual. But to help you get started, we’ve compiled a few ideas that will help you start brainstorming some ideas for this transition. Soon you’ll know how to set up a travel trailer that’s ready for you to live in!

Mobile vs. Permanent Setup

The first thing you’ll need to decide is whether you will continue to use the travel trailer as a functional vehicle or if you’re setting up a semi-permanent camp. There are a lot of RV resorts that allow year-round residents. Your choice will affect your design elements and layout. For example, if you choose a permanent setup with hookup access, you won’t need to worry about solar panels, extra water storage, etc. 

There are pros and cons to each choice. You obviously have more freedom to travel and explore if you opt for a mobile travel trailer, but you will be able to live more comfortably in a full-time resort. The following sections assume that we’re dealing with a mobile setup because most people buy a travel trailer so they can, well, travel!

If you opt for a permanent setup, you just need to focus on making the interior as comfortable as possible. You also may be able to expand outward and create an outdoor area for your RV.

Add Solar Panels

Electricity is an important element for those who want to set up a travel trailer to live in. You can sometimes rely on campsite hookups or your batteries, but neither of these is guaranteed. Some campsites (especially in rural areas) won’t offer hookups. You can also put a strain on your batteries if you drain them too much, too frequently. Also some places also have restrictions on generator use, so you can’t recharge your batteries easily.

Solar panels are a great solution for these situations. There are several RV-specific models that are easy to install. They are convenient, low-effort, and great for the environment! They make a great supplemental energy source and are pretty affordable. The upfront cost can be a bit intimidating, but they can pay for themselves over time. If you plan to use your RV a lot, this is a great investment to consider. 

Set up a Travel Trailer With Maximum Storage Space

 To set up a travel trailer to live in, you need to think about all the gear and items you’ll be packing. Try to make a list of everything you’ll need to travel with, so you have some idea of the amount of space you need. Most RVs come with a decent amount of storage, but they do have a limited amount of space to work with. If you don’t have a permanent setup, you also can’t rely on a storage shed or a rental unit for extra items.

This is why you need to focus on maximizing your storage space. Try cutting down on your bulky items as much as possible. Use vacuum seal bags for items that can be compressed. Stackable/nesting gear is also fantastic for the RV lifestyle. There are also some areas in your travel trailer that could be converted into extra storage space. For instance, if you have a model with bunk beds that aren’t used often, you can use these beds for storage. 

Installing command hooks, tension rods, and other items that can hold hanging items is another way to increase the amount of gear you can bring along. Make sure you have enough room for everything and create more space if you need it. Just be careful and make sure that you stay within the weight limits of your travel trailer.

Increase Water Capacity for Full-Time Living

If you plan on living in an RV full-time, you’ll need a good water setup. Even though you’re living on the road, you probably don’t want to sacrifice showers, laundry machines, and washing your hands. All of these things require water. The average travel trailer can hold a decent amount of fresh water, but it’s a good idea to supplement this if possible. 

See if you can install a larger freshwater tank in your RV. You can also use a refillable water bladder in your storage. This is great for topping off your stores. A few jugs of fresh drinking water are good to keep on hand as well. You never know when you might need them!

Create a Work/Personal Area

A lot of full-time RVers are retired, but some people still need to earn a living. With remote work becoming more and more popular, this is now a possibility for mobile RVers. It’s a good idea to incorporate a dedicated work area into your travel trailer layout. 

A few travel trailers have built-in offices or desks, but this isn’t a given. If you need to create your own space, it could be something like a converted closet, a nook in the living room, or maybe an unused bunk bed! If you’re traveling in areas with pleasant weather, you could also use a folding table and create a nice outdoor work area. 

Even if you don’t need to work, it’s nice to have a personal area just for you. Living in close proximity to others 24/7 can be overwhelming. Try to prioritize a personal space for yourself. Multiple people can use the same one at different times, but privacy is important to keep in mind. A simple dividing curtain can work wonders! 

Set up Your Travel Trailer With Personal Touches 

If you plan to set up a travel trailer to live in full-time, it needs to feel like home. Decoration and personal touches can help you achieve this. You don’t have to do anything extravagant, but simple wall decals, plants, decorative pillows, and knickknacks can make a big difference. 

Custom furniture is another great way to add personal touches to a travel trailer. Sometimes you can transform or repurpose items that have a special significance to you and incorporate them into the living space. Don’t clutter the RV, but try to make it feel like a welcoming environment. Wall panels, curtains, decorative backsplash, and fun floor tiles can help the space feel less like a vehicle and more like a home. 

Above all else, you need to think of your own needs when you’re setting up a travel trailer to live in full-time. Don’t do something just because it’s cute or trendy. Think of the functionality first and foremost so that you can enjoy the space.

Snag a Reliable Trip Planning Tool

Trip planning with RV LIFE Trip Wizard saves time by taking the guesswork out of finding campgrounds and resorts, mapping a safe route, and even sticking with a travel budget. RV LIFE Trip Wizard lets you customize your route based on your travel trailer specifications, including height and weight. Avoid low bridges and steep grades, and keep alert on propane restrictions.

RV LIFE Campgrounds is an excellent source for learning more about a campground and also reading customer reviews from campers just like you. With some 20,000 campgrounds listed, you’ll be sure to find tons of parks just right to set up your travel trailer on your full-time RV journey!

The post How to Set up a Travel Trailer for Extended RV Living appeared first on RV LIFE.

10 Hot Weather RV Tips to Stay Cool This Summer

10 Hot Weather RV Tips for Summer Adventures

Summer’s warm temperatures are perfect for RV camping and a lot of other fun outdoor activities. After all, many RVers spent winter and spring eagerly anticipating the heat of summer. However, in the case of scorching summer temperatures, too much of a good thing can be no good at all. That said, sweltering temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be hazardous. Not to worry though, because I’ve gathered 10 hot-weather RV tips that experienced RVers use to keep things cool in the RV when temperatures soar.

1. Pick a shady campsite

It’s a good idea to check out a satellite view map of the campground before you book a site. That way, you’ll be able to see which campsites are shaded by trees. If booking ahead isn’t your camping style, survey the scene and pick a spot that’s shaded by trees.

2. Park near a creek or other body of moving water

Moving water cools the air around it through evaporation. Although the temperature difference is only slight, it can still make the ambient temperature of your campsite a little cooler than other areas.

3. Keep the RV’s orientation in mind when parking

The direction the RV is parked can make a big difference on how hot it gets inside. Windows tend to radiate heat and this can have a big effect on the temperature inside the RV. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to park with the fewest or smallest windows on the western side of the RV. That way, they won’t be radiating the hot afternoon sun into the RV.

4. Use your RV’s awning

Deploying your RV patio awning and any window awnings will help keep hot temperatures out of the RV by creating shade. Slideout toppers and window awnings can be key players in providing shade for RV slideouts and windows, too. WIth that said, any awning can be damaged by wind. Therefore, it’s always a good plan to retract any patio and window awnings before leaving the campsite or going to bed.

5. Cover RV windows

Keeping the RV windows covered helps keep the sun (and heat) outside. Drawing the shades can help, but covering windows with reflective insulation (such as Reflectix) can be a game changer.

6. Cover RV skylights

While it’s true that RV skylights can really brighten up the interior of the RV, they can let in heat, too. Installing a skylight shade, Reflectix, or a skylight insulator on skylights can help keep heat outside and cool air indoors.

7. No RV air conditioner? Try a battery-powered portable air conditioner

Tent trailers and many other RVs often don’t have built-in air conditioners. If your RV doesn’t have an air conditioner (or you’re not plugged in), a battery-powered portable air conditioner could be just the solution you need. Companies like EcoFlow and Zero Breeze offer higher-end, more effective larger models, but there are a number of smaller units available as well.

8. Use the overhead fan to create a cross draft

This tip takes advantage of cooler evening and early-morning air. Either at night or as the sun is rising, run the overhead fan and open a window on the shady side of the RV. This will create a cross draft of cool air that will stay in the RV a surprisingly long time without turning on the RV air conditioner.

9: Cook outdoors

Cooking food inside the RV generates a surprising amount of heat. Instead of cooking indoors, set up a complete camp kitchen outdoors with everything you need to prepare your favorite camping meals. Some things to include might be:

• A propane stove/oven combo
• A grill
• A portable smoker
• Electric appliances
• A portable refrigerator
• A water supply
• Grill baskets and other utensils

10. Monitor temps while you’re away, for pet’s sake!

Once summer arrives, it’s best to avoid leaving pets alone in the RV for more than an hour without anyone checking on them. This is because there are many reasons an air conditioner can suddenly fail while you’re out. One common cause of this is power outages caused by the enormous electrical draw of multiple RVs running air conditioners all at the same time. That said, RVs tend to heat up very quickly when the air conditioner stops working. This can cause temperatures inside the RV to reach potentially deadly levels very quickly. Fortunately, there are numerous phone apps and devices (including some portable A/Cs) that allow you to monitor temperatures in the RV remotely. Here are just a few of them:

• Microair Easytouch RV Thermostat This wall thermostat upgrade features simple DIY installation. More importantly, it works with a Bluetooth app that lets you monitor and control the temperature in the RV from your phone.
• Firefly Smart RV System: This smart system panel comes stock in many new, higher-end RVs. It features an app that allows you to monitor and control almost everything in your RV, including the temperature.
• Waggle Pet Safety Monitor: This device monitors real-time temperature and humidity levels in your RV, instantly alerting you of any changes via text, email, or the subscription-based Waggle app.

Keep Your Cool This Summer

When summer temperatures soar, it can be hard to cool the RV, even with air conditioners running full blast. What’s more, while RV air conditioners are invaluable for bringing the temperature inside the RV down to a tolerable level, they can only do so much, often only reducing the interior temperature by 15–18 degrees. That means when it’s hotter than 90 degrees outside, you’ll have to take extra steps to keep the interior of the RV comfortable. Whether you’re on a road trip or spending the summer at an RV park, these hot-weather tips can help you and your family have a comfortable and safe RV experience, even when it’s sweltering out.

The post 10 Hot Weather RV Tips to Stay Cool This Summer appeared first on RV LIFE.

7 Essential RV Slideout Maintenance Tasks You Should Be Doing

Keep Things Operating Smoothly With These Essential RV Slideout Maintenance Tips

RV slideouts offer an easy way to add square footage to your RV, usually just by pressing a toggle switch. When you’re ready to move on, you just press the other side of the toggle switch and the slide comes back into the RV so you can get on your way. That said, a little routine slideout maintenance can keep them operating smoothly.

However, most seasoned RVers can recall at least one time that the RV slideout didn’t want to come back in. Usually all that was required was a little love and attention to get them moving again, but sometimes it requires the services of an RV technician. Problems happen because we often don’t think about slideout motors and mechanisms until they give us a problem. That said, the two keys to keeping your RV slideouts working reliably are a proper care and a little routine maintenance. In this article, we’ll take a look at six essential RV slideout maintenance tips to help keep your RV slideouts extending and retracting for a lifetime.

Key Components of an RV Slideout

Knowing what the key components of a slideout are, and how each of them works helps us to understand why care and maintenance are so important to their function.

• The slide room The slideout, including its roof and furniture.
• One or two small electric motors (depending on the size of the slide room)
• The slideout mechanisms
  • Rack and pinion – This system is recognizable by having two steel arms beneath the slideout
  • Schwintek – This system is recognizable by having two long, zipper-like gears at either end of the slideout.
  • Cable– This slideout system isn’t as popular as the other two, but cables on both ends of the slideout make it easy to recognize.
• The slideout seal– Slideout seals are flexible rubber seals that help keep rain, wind, and insects from getting into the RV. The flat part of the lide out seal faces the interior of the RV when the slideout is retracted. When the slideout extends this seal flips to face outward, so it can keep outdoor elements outside the RV.

6 Tips for RV Slideout Maintenance and Care

1: Always level the RV before extending slideouts

When the RV is on an angle (even a slight one), the slideout motor has to work extra hard to get the slideout out or in. That said, even if you can get the slideouts in or out when your RV isn’t level, you’ll shorten the slideout motor lifespan.

2. Don’t overload slideouts

Just like your RV, your RV slideouts have a cargo carrying capacity. If you exceed this capacity when your slideouts are extended, you may find yourself hiring an RV technician to fix them one day. Overloading the slideouts is easy to do because the excess weight can come from people, the new furniture you bought to replace the stock furniture in the slideout, gear, clothing or food. Too much weight can burn out the slideout motor and/or the slideout’s mechanical components as well as damaging the slide room itself.

3. Nobody should be in the slideout while it’s extending or retracting

RV slideouts are designed to extend and retract with a certain weight in them. Operating them with additional weight from occupants is hard on the slide components. This can eventually lead to failure of the motor or other components.

4. Lubricate all moving components at least three times per year

As a general rule RV slideouts operate best when mechanical components are kept lubricated with dry lubricant (like silicone). Lubrication should be done 3 -4 times per year. This is not where you want to use lubricants like WD40 or any kind of grease. This is because these popular lubricants can attract dust and other debris. No matter what slideout system you have, you’ll want to lubricate all moving parts on the slideout mechanism. On Schwintek system lubricate the gear teeth on the two bars at each end of the slideout. If your RV has a rack and pinion system: You’ll need to get under the slideout and lubricate both the racks and the pinions. On a cable system, lubricate the visible cables.

5. Keep rubber seals soft and supple with slideout seal conditioner

Slideout seals help keep rain, wind and bugs out of your RV. In order to perform this function, they need to be soft and supple. Foaming slideout seal conditioner is designed to do just this, so it’s the perfect product to use for this application.

6. Keep slideout roofs clear of debris and snow

You might be surprised at how much dirt and debris collects on slideout during a camping trip. Retracting the slideout in with this stuff on it will eventually wreck the horizontal seal at of the top of the RV slideout. Therefore, before you bring your slideout in, it’s a good idea to sweep the slideout off.

Snow accumulation on roof of the slideout can result in a layer of ice. This can prevent the slideout from from functioning normally. It’s important to clear any snow from slideout roofs before it can accumulate.

7. Keep slideout mechanisms clean and free of debris

Dirt and debris can interfere with slideout function. Before you bring the slideouts in, be sure to make sure that the mechanisms are clean and free of twigs, leaves or other debris.

8. Store your RV with the slideouts retracted

Storing your RV with slideouts extended exposes them to the elements. This can lead to damage to the slideout mechanisms and seals as well as interior of the slide room. With that said, it’s good practice to store your RV with the slideouts in.

RV Slideout Maintenance and Care Keeps Slideouts Running Smoothly

RV slideouts add a lot more square footage and livability to your RV. That said, they’re designed to offer years of trouble-free service and you should never have to worry about a stuck slideout. With just a little care and maintenance, they should last the lifetime of your RV.

The post 7 Essential RV Slideout Maintenance Tasks You Should Be Doing appeared first on RV LIFE.

How to Establish an Address When You Travel Full-time in Your RV

Tips and Tricks Full-time RVers use to Maintain an Address

Whether you’ve decided to travel full time in an RV, or you’re still sitting on the fence about it, there are two questions that have probably popped into your mind. One of these questions is how you’ll get mail when you live on the road. And the other is how to get a domicile (or residential) address for things like obtaining a driver’s license, voter registration, or other state-provided services. In this article we’ll look at different ways you to have both a residential address and mail delivery, wherever you happen to be.

8 Methods for Getting an Address When Your Home is the Open Road

1. Get a USPS or Canada Post Office Box

If you already have a post office box (PO box), you can keep renewing it, and then have mail forwarded to general delivery at a post office wherever you go. If you don’t already have a PO box, you can use general delivery at the nearest post office. In the USA, call the post office where you want to pick up mail and ask if it offers general delivery service. In Canada, go to the nearest post office in person, speak with the postmaster, and request an application for general delivery service. In Canada, travelers can receive mail for up to four months at any post office, free of charge.

2. Get a private mailbox and a UPS address

UPS stores are often conveniently located and they offer mailboxes. Not only that, but when you get a UPS mailbox, they provide you with a street address that includes your box number. The advantages of this option are that you get both a mailing address and a legitimate domicile address as well as perks like mail and package notifications and call-in mail checking. The downside is that UPS doesn’t offer free mail forwarding.

3. Use your RV park for an address

Many RV parks will accept delivery of mail for monthly or seasonal guests. So if you stay at an RV park for more than a few weeks at a time, you may be able to make use of this service. In addition, if you stay at a park for six months of a calendar year, you can use it as your domicile address.

5. Pick up Amazon parcels at Amazon Lockers or pick up desks

Amazon delivers to sites at RV parks, but in my experience, drivers sometimes have trouble finding campsites and your parcel can end up delayed for a day or more. Many times, it’s easier to have packages delivered to an Amazon locker or pick up location near you. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to Amazon.com/ulp/view
2. Click on Search near your current location
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to get your package delivered to a convenient location

6. If you reside in the US, establish a domicile address in Florida, South Dakota, or Texas

A domicile state is the state where you legally reside and where you register your vehicles, pay taxes, and vote. If you live in a traditional, sticks and bricks home, your domicile is where you live. However, for full-time RV travelers, it’s not so simple because each state has its own rules when it comes to residency. However, you’ll need to establish a domicile in order to remain compliant with tax liabilities, to access your right to vote, and generally access any government services. That said, Florida, South Dakota, and Texas stand out as favorites for full-time RVers.

Florida

There are a lot of advantages to having a domicile in Florida. Warm weather, no state income or estate taxes, and a large RV community are among them. However, in order to claim residency, Florida has a whole host of requirements because they want to make sure you really want to live there.

Requirements for getting a domicile in Florida:

1. Live in Florida most of the year
2. File a Florida Declaration of Domicile
3. Obtain a Florida driver’s license
4. Register Your Vehicle(s) in Florida
5. Register to Vote in Florida
6. File a final resident income tax return in your present home state
7. Begin filing non-resident, income tax returns in your home state
8. Have a residence in Florida
9. Change mailing address on account statements to Florida

South Dakota

South Dakota requires proof of 24-hour residency to establish a domicile. This RV-friendly state also offers other perks, too. A lack of state income tax, low vehicle registration fees, and straightforward residency requirements are among them. Also, many mail forwarding services are based in South Dakota.

Texas

Texas has a lot of appeal as a domicile state for full-time RV travelers. That said, Texas is a popular choice due to its lack of state income tax, relatively low property taxes in some areas, and the presence of mail-forwarding services that cater specifically to RVers. Escapees RV club is based in Livingston, Texas and it offers both mail forwarding and domicile services to members.

Requirements For Getting a Domicile In Texas

• Establish a Texas address
• Register your vehicle in Texas
• Obtain a Texas driver’s license
• Register to vote in Texas

8. Use a friend’s or relative’s address for an address

Last but not least, you can always use the address of a trusted friend or family member for either a domicile or mailing address. Of course, it goes without saying that you should ask them first. The downside to this is that people move, and they can also get tired of forwarding your mail to you.

Conclusion

Even with the unfettered freedom full-time RV life offers, you’ll always need an address. Although we’re living in a digital age where nearly everything can be done online, we still get both mail and parcels from time to time. In addition, having address allows us to access government services like voter registration, or vehicle registration and licensing. However, having an address doesn’t have to tie you down to a single location. Having a PO Box, a mail-forwarding service, and carefully choosing a domicile state that suits your needs allows you to have the best of both worlds. You can enjoy full freedom to explore and connect with the world around you, while still getting mail and enjoying voting and government services. Don’t let the address dilemma hold you back from your full-time RV dreams!

The post How to Establish an Address When You Travel Full-time in Your RV appeared first on RV LIFE.

Oceanside Camping at Winchester Bay RV Resort

Now that the weather is warming up, the West coast is calling to all RVers! Many people flock toward harbors and beaches during their summer road trips and there is no shortage of options. But if your journeys take you into the state of Oregon, you’ll definitely want to check out Winchester Bay RV Resort.

This park has stellar reviews from its guests and it has an excellent location. You’ll be able to camp right along the water’s edge, while still enjoying a bit of natural protection from the open ocean. This bay is scenic and it has its own marina and beaches. Wildlife also abounds in this area, so be sure to bring your fishing pole and bird-watching binoculars with you!

Oregon is full of beautiful campgrounds, so you may wonder why we would highlight this one above all others. Well, you’ll have to read on to learn more! But rest assured that this park has a well-earned reputation from critics and campers alike. Let’s find out why!

Overview

The Winchester Bay RV Resort is located in Winchester Bay, Oregon, just outside of Reedsport, and in between the coastal cities of Coos Bay and Florence. So if you plan to drive along the West coast, there’s a good chance this campground will be on your route.

The titular Winchester Bay is nestled in the bend where the Umpqua River meets the Pacific Ocean. This mix of saltwater and freshwater attracts all kinds of wildlife, plus it’s the perfect place for water-sports enthusiasts to launch their boats. Several public parks surround this campground, including Harbor Park, Sea Ranch Park, and Ork Rock Park. And those are just the ones in the immediate vicinity! There are countless opportunities to appreciate the local environment when you stay here.

Winchester Bay RV Resort is a fairly large park, with a grand total of 138 RV sites. Many of these have a clear view of the water, but there are a few rings of interior sites as well. There is also a separate camping ring on The Point that offers more secluded sites and larger waterfront sites. These options are all priced according to their size and position within the park, so if you’re looking for a most budget-friendly option, an interior site is a good way to save a few bucks!

Speaking of rates, let’s talk about what you can expect here. This park is open all year long, but it offers significantly discounted prices spanning from October to May. Fewer people want to camp seaside once the temperature drops, after all! The average nightly rates are as follows (Summer/Winter both listed):

• Small Interior: $57/$44 per night
• Large Interior: $71/$47 per night
• Waterfront: $78/$51 per night
• Super Sites: $155/$101 per night
• Point Small Interior: $74/$54 per night
• Point Large Interior: $88/$63 per night
• Point Waterfront: $94/$68 per night
• Waterfront Deluxe: $103/$74 per night
• Waterfront Super Site: $184/$135 per night
• Deluxe Super Site: $195/$147 per night

As you can see, the prices are quite reasonable for an oceanside RV resort! And if you stop by during the cooler months, you’ll get an even better deal. Ten rental cabins are also located on the property, ranging from $100–$170 per night depending on which one you choose and when you book your stay.

If you would like to view the full campground map and/or make a reservation to stay here, visit the official campground website at winchesterbayresort.com

Amenities

An RV park without any amenities is just a parking lot! But at Winchester Bay RV Resort, they take comfort seriously and have provided plenty of facilities and amenities to help every visitor have a pleasant stay.

For starters, all RV sites come with full hookups. There’s no need to dry camp here! Each one also comes with its own picnic table, BBQ pit, and paved parking spot. Many of the sites are pull-through, so it’s easy to get in and out of your spot without making a lot of adjustments. Firewood and ice are also available at the resort office, so feel free to stop by if you need to refill your supplies.

The Wi-Fi here can be a little spotty, but most cell phone carriers have reported excellent service speed in this location.

Several restrooms and shower facilities are located throughout the park. These are all code-access only for extra security and they also include laundry machines so you can keep your wardrobe fresh and clean. RV/boat storage space is located on-site as well, which is handy for guests with bulky gear that won’t fit in their campsite.

This is also a campground that’s accessible to everyone. Most of the sites and facilities are wheelchair-accessible and the grounds are paved and level. There’s also plenty of space for children and pets to get their energy out! Visitors may enjoy the playground, the putting green, and the 1-mile walking path that runs along the water’s edge.

And if you’re looking for the perfect group venue, head to the Marina Activity Center (MAC). This building is located on the point, so it has unobstructed views of the water from multiple angles. With its spacious indoor and outdoor areas, it’s perfect for hosting large groups and events.

Some popular features at the MAC include the large group fire pit, the flat screen TV and speaker system, and the full kitchenette setup. Tables and chairs are available upon request as well. Any guest can visit these facilities (as long as they are not currently in use for a planned event). This clubhouse is perfect for family reunions, weddings, corporate events, or just casual activities with other campers!

Nearby Activities/Attractions

There’s plenty to do within Winchester Bay RV Resort, but the location also puts you in an ideal position to explore everything the Oregon coast has to offer. Those who love fresh-caught seafood will be in heaven — whether you catch it yourself or find it at a local restaurant! There are opportunities for crabbing within walking distance of the campground, so be sure to bring those claw crackers. Salmon and rockfish are also common in the area and fishermen can score some massive catches.

Seafood aside, this section of the coast is gorgeous. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Umpqua Lighthouse, ride around the sand dunes, and enjoy miles of walking/biking trails. During the right season, you may even spot whales in the nearby ocean!

Looking for something to do indoors? We’ve got your back! Learn about local history and culture at the Umpqua Discovery Center (It includes fun activities for the kids too!) Art aficionados may also appreciate the wine tasting and local art showcased at Mindpower Gallery or the woodworking wonders at Myrtlewood Gallery.

Don’t miss out on the local cuisine either! As we mentioned earlier, seafood is always on the menu around here. But even those who can’t stand the smell of fish can find something to love on this list of local favorites:

• Salmon Harbor Cafe & Mercantile
• Jackson’s Cafe Coffeehouse
• Griff’s On the Bay Restaurant
• Kismet’s Landing
• Don’s Main Street Family Restaurant
• Highwater Cafe & Market
• Harbor Light Restaurant

Reviews

Finally, let’s take a look at what the campers had to say. After all, the true metric of a campground’s quality is their level of customer satisfaction.

Fortunately, the reviews for the Winchester Bay RV Resort are glowing! Users of RV LIFE Campgrounds give it a stellar rating of 9.5/10. And that’s the cumulative result of more than 350 reviews, so you know it’s not just a few outliers who ranked it well. Nearly ever visitor rated it as “Excellent” (the highest score that could be given).

Campers report that this park is well-maintained and offers some truly gorgeous views. They also appreciated the full hookups and the location that put them close to several oceanside attractions and activities. The park landscaping and greenery was also mentioned several times, so you can rest assured that it looks just as good in-person as it does in the photos.

The only downsides that were mentioned were the things that were beyond anyone’s control, such as poor weather. Camping along the Oregon coast can expose you to some chilly ocean breezes, no matter what time of year you stop by. So be prepared to dress warm and secure your belongings so they don’t blow away.

If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, be sure to keep this resort on your list. It might just become your new favorite spot!

Related Articles:

• The Best Places To Go Whale Watching On The Oregon Coast
• Oceanside RV Resort: Enjoy A Relaxing Stay On The Oregon Coast
• 10 Best Places To Go Sea Kayaking On The West Coast

The post Oceanside Camping at Winchester Bay RV Resort appeared first on RV LIFE.

Where Are the Best Campgrounds Near National Parks? Start Here

Sponsored by Thousand Trails

Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts Put You Closer to Nature Without Sacrificing Comfort

Some people drive to nature. RVers? We roll right up to it. If you’re searching for the best campgrounds near national parks, you don’t have to look far. Whether you’re craving misty mountain mornings, ocean-kissed breezes, or desert stargazing under ancient cliffs, these hand-picked campgrounds in the Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts family plant you just minutes from some of America’s most awe-inspiring national parks and forests.

What’s the Best Place to Camp Near Acadia National Park?

Acadia National Park is where rugged coastline meets quiet forest trails and granite peaks. From summiting Cadillac Mountain at sunrise to biking the historic carriage roads or tidepooling along the rocky shore, it’s a destination made for RVers who want a mix of adventure and serenity. And the good news? You don’t have to stay far from the park to soak up the views.

Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort

Perched right along the shoreline in Bar Harbor, Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort offers panoramic views of the Atlantic and easy access to both Acadia and downtown Bar Harbor. You can park your rig just steps from the ocean, then head out for a day of hiking and sightseeing.

On-site amenities include a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, Wi-Fi, game room, laundry, and a playground. Clean restroom and shower facilities and a small store make it easy to settle in for a longer stay.

“Good sized site, full hookups. Also had a bus stop for free rides Al [sic] around Arcadia National Park. So many places to see on the island and all are beautiful.”

Bblake57 | RV LIFE Campgrounds

Narrows Too RV Resort

Just down the road in Trenton, Narrows Too offers even more space and a lively community atmosphere. Many campsites feature sweeping ocean views. The campground hosts regular lobster bakes, live music, pancake breakfasts, candy bar bingo, and community s’mores nights.

This resort-style campground includes a heated swimming pool, dog park, picnic/BBQ areas, and services like Wi-Fi, laundry, and a store. It’s a great choice for RVers looking to mix Acadia hikes with some classic Maine-style fun by the fire.

Where Can RVers Stay Near Dry Tortugas National Park in the Florida Keys?

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote and spectacular destinations in the National Park system. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, it’s famous for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson. And while you can’t drive your RV to the park, you can stay nearby in the Florida Keys. Then make it a day trip from the comfort of your tropical basecamp.

Fiesta Key RV Resort & Marina

Set on its own private island in Long Key, Fiesta Key is a scenic escape full of small touches that make a big difference. Park your RV right along the oceanfront. Enjoy drinks at the Tiki bar, and catch nightly live music or DJ sets without ever leaving the resort. Guests love the on-site restaurant Oceans 305, the heated pool and spa, and the marina rentals for exploring the open water.

There’s plenty of activity here: pickleball, snorkeling, fishing, volleyball, and even a dog run for your pup. But what sets Fiesta Key apart is the vibe: sunset views, friendly staff, and an attention to detail that makes each stay memorable. 

Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina

Looking for a bigger island experience? Sunshine Key, located on 75-acre Ohio Key, offers a classic Keys-style RV resort with room to stretch out and every amenity you could want. Guests can swim, fish, kayak, or just relax along the beachfront pier, all with the Gulf on one side and the Atlantic on the other.

This resort features a full-service marina and bait shop, kayak and paddleboard rentals, tennis and pickleball courts, and a jam-packed schedule of activities. You’ll find a heated pool, playground, high-speed internet, and even organized exercise classes. 

“Whether you are staying to enjoy the sunshine at your site or the small beach near the road and bridge or fishing/biking/kyaking [sic]/boating and visiting the nearby sites, this is an excellent location.”

DMMcHenry | RV LIFE Campgrounds

Where Is the Best RV Campground Near Everglades National Park?

Everglades National Park is one of the most unique and biodiverse parks in the country. It’s home to mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, alligators, manatees, and an endless maze of waterways to explore. No matter if you’re paddling, hiking, or taking a classic airboat ride, you’ll want a convenient place to stay. And Miami Everglades RV Resort fits the bill perfectly.

Located just 10 miles from the national park entrance, this Encore resort offers RVers a tropical camping paradise tucked among avocado trees, palm groves, and colorful plant nurseries. It’s a peaceful setting that feels worlds away. But it’s still within easy reach of urban attractions like Miami’s Art Deco District, Coral Gables, and Bayside Marketplace.

Guests love the resort-style pool and hot tub, 18-hole mini golf course, and shady walking/biking trail that loops the property. There’s a packed schedule of activities, including movie nights, water aerobics, craft sessions, bingo, and jam sessions on the deck. With amenities like high-speed internet, pickleball courts, a dog park, shuffleboard, and a fully stocked store, this is one of the best RV campgrounds near Everglades National Park for travelers who want comfort, community, and convenience.

“Visited Everglades National Park, Big Cypress National Preserve and Biscayne National Park.”

Dogcrossroads | RV LIFE Campgrounds

What’s the Best RV Campground Near Mt. Hood National Forest?

With over a million acres of wilderness, rivers, alpine lakes, and rugged peaks, Mt. Hood National Forest is a must-visit.  Visitors hike to stunning viewpoints, ride mountain bikes through shady forest paths, or take in the historic charm of Timberline Lodge, where skiing and snowboarding are available year-round. And if you’re looking for the perfect home base nearby, it’s hard to beat Mt. Hood Village RV Resort.

Just outside the forest boundary, this wooded campground offers over 300 RV sites and a full lineup of amenities. Indoors, guests can enjoy a clubhouse, fitness center, jacuzzi, sauna, and more. Outdoors, you’ll find a sparkling swimming pool, scenic hiking trails, a playground, and games like badminton, horseshoes, and basketball. The campground also features Wi-Fi, a camp store, laundry facilities, and BBQ areas.

Beyond the resort, guests can explore 700+ hiking trails, lakes and streams, birdwatching, golfing, the Alpine Slide, and attend seasonal favorites like the Huckleberry Festival or Salmon-Mushroom Festival. It’s a quintessential Pacific Northwest escape.

“Great location for small excursions around Mt Hood.”

Gregormerritt | RV LIFE Campgrounds

Where Is the Best RV Campground Near Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite is one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., with granite cliffs, waterfalls, and high-country hikes that keep travelers coming back year after year. But landing a campsite inside the park itself can feel like winning the lottery. That’s why RVers love Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes, located just 15 minutes from the entrance.

This lush, riverfront campground gives you easy access to Yosemite with the added bonus of a summer shuttle service. The on-site general store stocks groceries, firewood, everyday items, gasoline, and diesel, making it easy to stay well-supplied without leaving camp.

Other conveniences include Wi-Fi, coin-op laundry, and clean restrooms and showers. For downtime between national park adventures, you’ll find mini golf, basketball, volleyball, tetherball, croquet, billiards, a game room, and hiking and fishing options right at camp. Keep an eye out for the local deer family that likes to wander through the trees, just one of those small, peaceful touches that make Yosemite Lakes feel like a true getaway.

“…this may be the prettiest TT [Thousand Trails] park we’ve stayed in. It’s surrounded by mountains, has a river running through it, has a couple of walking trails, and is a short distance from Yosemite National Park.”

MooreAdventureInLife | RV LIFE Campgrounds

What’s the Best RV Campground Near Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is a desert dreamland of red rock cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and jaw-dropping overlooks. Whether you’re hiking The Narrows, climbing Angel’s Landing, or just soaking in the epic scenery, Zion delivers that larger-than-life national park experience. And you don’t have to stay far from it. St. George / Hurricane KOA puts you close to the action with a dose of local history, too.

Built on the site of a former ghost town, this KOA campground is located in southern Utah’s Color Country, offering dramatic landscapes and easy access to both Zion and nearby state parks. 

The property features a swimming pool, mini golf, laundry, restrooms and showers, and a playground, plus nature trails and BBQ picnic areas to enjoy the scenery right at camp. Inside, you’ll find a clubhouse, ballroom, and a full activities center offering everything from bingo and arts & crafts to potlucks.  It’s one of the best RV campgrounds near Zion National Park if you’re looking for a balance of rugged scenery and campground comfort.

Tips for Planning an RV Trip to Campgrounds Near National Parks

Plan your route with online tools like RV LIFE Trip Wizard to avoid steep mountain passes, tunnels, and tight turns. Use apps like RV LIFE GPS for safe navigation based on your rig’s size and weight, and to avoid backroads that may be scenic, but not RV-friendly. Check RV LIFE Campgrounds for site reviews, user-uploaded photos, and tips from real RVers who’ve stayed at each location. Reserve early. Even campgrounds outside the parks fill up fast, especially during spring, summer, and fall breaks. Plan to arrive early. Many campgrounds have specific check-in windows, and navigating after dark can be tricky in forested or rural areas. Pack smart for day trips. Many national parks have limited food options inside, so keep a cooler stocked, bring extra layers, and load up on fuel and snacks before heading in.

Wrapping Up the Best  Campgrounds Near National Parks

From coastal cliffs and coral reefs to alpine forests and desert canyons, these campgrounds near national parks let you stay close to the wild without giving up the comforts of your RV. Each resort offers its own unique blend of scenery, amenities, and proximity to bucket-list trails and landmarks. So all you have to do is pick a destination, pack the rig, and roll into adventure.

Planning a quick weekend getaway, an extended stay near the parks, or chasing scenic seasons year-round? Thousand Trails and Encore RV Resorts have you covered. With campgrounds near some of the most iconic national parks and forests in the country, it’s easy to turn your bucket-list destinations into comfortable, memory-filled adventures.

Explore campgrounds and book your adventure now!

The post Where Are the Best Campgrounds Near National Parks? Start Here appeared first on RV LIFE.

How to Set up a Travel Trailer for Extended RV Living

Transition Your Travel Trailer Into a Long-Term Home

People use RVs for a ton of different purposes. Sometimes they’re just a more convenient way to camp. Sometimes they’re the perfect vehicle for summer road trips. But some people make RVs into their full-time homes! This is why it’s good to know how to set up a travel trailer to live in for extended periods of time.

Because different people need different things from their RVs, there’s no perfect one-size-fits-all setup, but there are some things you can do to transition your travel trailer into a more permanent home. You’ll need to find ways to maximize storage, create an environment that you feel comfortable with, and decorate based on your own tastes. 

Again, this process is highly individual. But to help you get started, we’ve compiled a few ideas that will help you start brainstorming some ideas for this transition. Soon you’ll know how to set up a travel trailer that’s ready for you to live in!

Mobile vs. Permanent Setup

The first thing you’ll need to decide is whether you will continue to use the travel trailer as a functional vehicle or if you’re setting up a semi-permanent camp. There are a lot of RV resorts that allow year-round residents. Your choice will affect your design elements and layout. For example, if you choose a permanent setup with hookup access, you won’t need to worry about solar panels, extra water storage, etc. 

There are pros and cons to each choice. You obviously have more freedom to travel and explore if you opt for a mobile travel trailer, but you will be able to live more comfortably in a full-time resort. The following sections assume that we’re dealing with a mobile setup because most people buy a travel trailer so they can, well, travel!

If you opt for a permanent setup, you just need to focus on making the interior as comfortable as possible. You also may be able to expand outward and create an outdoor area for your RV.

Add Solar Panels

Electricity is an important element for those who want to set up a travel trailer to live in. You can sometimes rely on campsite hookups or your batteries, but neither of these is guaranteed. Some campsites (especially in rural areas) won’t offer hookups. You can also put a strain on your batteries if you drain them too much, too frequently. Also some places also have restrictions on generator use, so you can’t recharge your batteries easily.

Solar panels are a great solution for these situations. There are several RV-specific models that are easy to install. They are convenient, low-effort, and great for the environment! They make a great supplemental energy source and are pretty affordable. The upfront cost can be a bit intimidating, but they can pay for themselves over time. If you plan to use your RV a lot, this is a great investment to consider. 

Set up a Travel Trailer With Maximum Storage Space

 To set up a travel trailer to live in, you need to think about all the gear and items you’ll be packing. Try to make a list of everything you’ll need to travel with, so you have some idea of the amount of space you need. Most RVs come with a decent amount of storage, but they do have a limited amount of space to work with. If you don’t have a permanent setup, you also can’t rely on a storage shed or a rental unit for extra items.

This is why you need to focus on maximizing your storage space. Try cutting down on your bulky items as much as possible. Use vacuum seal bags for items that can be compressed. Stackable/nesting gear is also fantastic for the RV lifestyle. There are also some areas in your travel trailer that could be converted into extra storage space. For instance, if you have a model with bunk beds that aren’t used often, you can use these beds for storage. 

Installing command hooks, tension rods, and other items that can hold hanging items is another way to increase the amount of gear you can bring along. Make sure you have enough room for everything and create more space if you need it. Just be careful and make sure that you stay within the weight limits of your travel trailer.

Increase Water Capacity for Full-Time Living

If you plan on living in an RV full-time, you’ll need a good water setup. Even though you’re living on the road, you probably don’t want to sacrifice showers, laundry machines, and washing your hands. All of these things require water. The average travel trailer can hold a decent amount of fresh water, but it’s a good idea to supplement this if possible. 

See if you can install a larger freshwater tank in your RV. You can also use a refillable water bladder in your storage. This is great for topping off your stores. A few jugs of fresh drinking water are good to keep on hand as well. You never know when you might need them!

Create a Work/Personal Area

A lot of full-time RVers are retired, but some people still need to earn a living. With remote work becoming more and more popular, this is now a possibility for mobile RVers. It’s a good idea to incorporate a dedicated work area into your travel trailer layout. 

A few travel trailers have built-in offices or desks, but this isn’t a given. If you need to create your own space, it could be something like a converted closet, a nook in the living room, or maybe an unused bunk bed! If you’re traveling in areas with pleasant weather, you could also use a folding table and create a nice outdoor work area. 

Even if you don’t need to work, it’s nice to have a personal area just for you. Living in close proximity to others 24/7 can be overwhelming. Try to prioritize a personal space for yourself. Multiple people can use the same one at different times, but privacy is important to keep in mind. A simple dividing curtain can work wonders! 

Set up Your Travel Trailer With Personal Touches 

If you plan to set up a travel trailer to live in full-time, it needs to feel like home. Decoration and personal touches can help you achieve this. You don’t have to do anything extravagant, but simple wall decals, plants, decorative pillows, and knickknacks can make a big difference. 

Custom furniture is another great way to add personal touches to a travel trailer. Sometimes you can transform or repurpose items that have a special significance to you and incorporate them into the living space. Don’t clutter the RV, but try to make it feel like a welcoming environment. Wall panels, curtains, decorative backsplash, and fun floor tiles can help the space feel less like a vehicle and more like a home. 

Above all else, you need to think of your own needs when you’re setting up a travel trailer to live in full-time. Don’t do something just because it’s cute or trendy. Think of the functionality first and foremost so that you can enjoy the space.

Snag a Reliable Trip Planning Tool

Trip planning with RV LIFE Trip Wizard saves time by taking the guesswork out of finding campgrounds and resorts, mapping a safe route, and even sticking with a travel budget. RV LIFE Trip Wizard lets you customize your route based on your travel trailer specifications, including height and weight. Avoid low bridges and steep grades, and keep alert on propane restrictions.

RV LIFE Campgrounds is an excellent source for learning more about a campground and also reading customer reviews from campers just like you. With some 20,000 campgrounds listed, you’ll be sure to find tons of parks just right to set up your travel trailer on your full-time RV journey!

The post How to Set up a Travel Trailer for Extended RV Living appeared first on RV LIFE.

10 Hot Weather RV Tips to Stay Cool This Summer

10 Hot Weather RV Tips for Summer Adventures

Summer’s warm temperatures are perfect for RV camping and a lot of other fun outdoor activities. After all, many RVers spent winter and spring eagerly anticipating the heat of summer. However, in the case of scorching summer temperatures, too much of a good thing can be no good at all. That said, sweltering temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be hazardous. Not to worry though, because I’ve gathered 10 hot-weather RV tips that experienced RVers use to keep things cool in the RV when temperatures soar.

1. Pick a shady campsite

It’s a good idea to check out a satellite view map of the campground before you book a site. That way, you’ll be able to see which campsites are shaded by trees. If booking ahead isn’t your camping style, survey the scene and pick a spot that’s shaded by trees.

2. Park near a creek or other body of moving water

Moving water cools the air around it through evaporation. Although the temperature difference is only slight, it can still make the ambient temperature of your campsite a little cooler than other areas.

3. Keep the RV’s orientation in mind when parking

The direction the RV is parked can make a big difference on how hot it gets inside. Windows tend to radiate heat and this can have a big effect on the temperature inside the RV. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to park with the fewest or smallest windows on the western side of the RV. That way, they won’t be radiating the hot afternoon sun into the RV.

4. Use your RV’s awning

Deploying your RV patio awning and any window awnings will help keep hot temperatures out of the RV by creating shade. Slideout toppers and window awnings can be key players in providing shade for RV slideouts and windows, too. WIth that said, any awning can be damaged by wind. Therefore, it’s always a good plan to retract any patio and window awnings before leaving the campsite or going to bed.

5. Cover RV windows

Keeping the RV windows covered helps keep the sun (and heat) outside. Drawing the shades can help, but covering windows with reflective insulation (such as Reflectix) can be a game changer.

6. Cover RV skylights

While it’s true that RV skylights can really brighten up the interior of the RV, they can let in heat, too. Installing a skylight shade, Reflectix, or a skylight insulator on skylights can help keep heat outside and cool air indoors.

7. No RV air conditioner? Try a battery-powered portable air conditioner

Tent trailers and many other RVs often don’t have built-in air conditioners. If your RV doesn’t have an air conditioner (or you’re not plugged in), a battery-powered portable air conditioner could be just the solution you need. Companies like EcoFlow and Zero Breeze offer higher-end, more effective larger models, but there are a number of smaller units available as well.

8. Use the overhead fan to create a cross draft

This tip takes advantage of cooler evening and early-morning air. Either at night or as the sun is rising, run the overhead fan and open a window on the shady side of the RV. This will create a cross draft of cool air that will stay in the RV a surprisingly long time without turning on the RV air conditioner.

9: Cook outdoors

Cooking food inside the RV generates a surprising amount of heat. Instead of cooking indoors, set up a complete camp kitchen outdoors with everything you need to prepare your favorite camping meals. Some things to include might be:

• A propane stove/oven combo
• A grill
• A portable smoker
• Electric appliances
• A portable refrigerator
• A water supply
• Grill baskets and other utensils

10. Monitor temps while you’re away, for pet’s sake!

Once summer arrives, it’s best to avoid leaving pets alone in the RV for more than an hour without anyone checking on them. This is because there are many reasons an air conditioner can suddenly fail while you’re out. One common cause of this is power outages caused by the enormous electrical draw of multiple RVs running air conditioners all at the same time. That said, RVs tend to heat up very quickly when the air conditioner stops working. This can cause temperatures inside the RV to reach potentially deadly levels very quickly. Fortunately, there are numerous phone apps and devices (including some portable A/Cs) that allow you to monitor temperatures in the RV remotely. Here are just a few of them:

• Microair Easytouch RV Thermostat This wall thermostat upgrade features simple DIY installation. More importantly, it works with a Bluetooth app that lets you monitor and control the temperature in the RV from your phone.
• Firefly Smart RV System: This smart system panel comes stock in many new, higher-end RVs. It features an app that allows you to monitor and control almost everything in your RV, including the temperature.
• Waggle Pet Safety Monitor: This device monitors real-time temperature and humidity levels in your RV, instantly alerting you of any changes via text, email, or the subscription-based Waggle app.

Keep Your Cool This Summer

When summer temperatures soar, it can be hard to cool the RV, even with air conditioners running full blast. What’s more, while RV air conditioners are invaluable for bringing the temperature inside the RV down to a tolerable level, they can only do so much, often only reducing the interior temperature by 15–18 degrees. That means when it’s hotter than 90 degrees outside, you’ll have to take extra steps to keep the interior of the RV comfortable. Whether you’re on a road trip or spending the summer at an RV park, these hot-weather tips can help you and your family have a comfortable and safe RV experience, even when it’s sweltering out.

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