Wanna go RVing? RVing, if you were to define it, would be the act of traveling around in a Recreational Vehicle. Some go RVing full-time (year-round) and some people go RVing only during the summer, while others yet go RVing one or two weeks a year. However, if you're an avid RVer, you go RVing as often as your situation permits.
Here are a few websites that can help in your pursuit to go RVing:
www.gorving.com This website has many little animals to narrate the different parts of the site. You can buy and sell RVs, find affordable vacations, fun activities while on the road, videos and commercials and last but not least, an RV Park directory (so you can know where to stay along the way).
www.newrver.com This website has everything you need to go RVing, from Financing, Insurance, Storage, Rentals, Parks to Accessories and a place to buy every RV type. There are also How-to guides and tips for the rookie who wants to become a veteran RVer.
www.rvingwithdogs.com This website is, as it states, your guide to finding RV Campsites that allow dogs. There are also a few books that relate - like First Aid for Dogs.
www.rvingwomen.com This website is specifically for women. As it states on the front page, it's for the most experienced to the most novice; the full-time RVer to the wannabe (like me) RVer. It's a place for women to network and socialize about RVs.
www.matchdoctor.com/This website is mostly a dating site for single RVing men who are looking for RVing women. There's a blog, chatting, and other things men might enjoy.
http://www.rvproperty.com/ This site is mainly to help those with disabilities buy and sell or rent RVs that are made to accommodate. However, there is a link to help those with disabilities find RV Parks. You can also advertise here. There are many more features to this site as well.
http://www.fulltime-rving.com/ This site includes a forum, place to post your photos, equipment and repair, campfire cooking, reasons to go full-time, how logistically to make it work, links to other useful information.
Let me know if you don't find a website that suits your needs!
WOW! Beautiful sky and RVs - one of the many reasons to go RVing
Click on pic to find its source
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Yosemite RV Parks
There are 13 inside Yosemite National Park, and I'll also mention a few nearby. Just as a note, if you are staying over night in Yosemite, you must be at a campsite, not along the side of the road or in a parking lot. There is a spot on the website that tells you all that you need to know, including what to do if you encounter a bear, internet access pricing and availability, as well as more information (like the information I paraphrased on this blog post). The sites are open at varying times in the year, but average between March or April to October or November. The elevation is approximately 4,000 feet. The campsites all include a fire ring, picnic tables and are near bathrooms. In all campsites, you are required to keep food away from bears.
If wanting to learn about other national parks, check out this blog post!
In Camp 4, the cost is $5/ person (up to 6 people). RVs and trailers are not allowed in this campsite.
In Tamarack Flats, neither RVs nor trailers are recommended.
In Yosemite Creek, neither RVs nor trailers are recommended.
In Upper Pines, the campsites are open year-round, but a reservation is required March through November. The max RV length is 35 feet and max trailer length is 24 feet. It is a dump station. They allow pets. A bathroom, shopping and showers are nearby. There are three campsites for (only) people with disabilities.
In Lower Pines, the cost is $20 a campsite a night (up to 6 people) and reservations are required. The max RV length is 40 and max trailer length is 35. This is also a dump station. Groceries, showers and bathroom nearby. They also allow pets (look at their regulations for more information). There is an extra cost, but special double campsites can accommodate 7-12 people. There are 5 campsites available for those in wheelchairs.
In North Pines, the cost is $20 a campsite a night (up to 6 people) and reservations are required. The max RV length is 40 and max trailer length is 35. This is also a dump station. Groceries, showers and bathroom nearby. They also allow pets (look at their regulations for more information). There are 3 campsites suitable for wheelchairs.
In Wawona, the cost varies - $20 per campsite up to 6 people, $14 a night from October to April, and $40 a night for a group campsite (13-30 people, but they don't allow RVs or trailers in group campsites). There are a couple of horse sites (27 foot trailer allowed). There are groceries and a dump station nearby, pets are allowed, and showers are in Yosemite Valley. Campsite is near to bathrooms. There are two sites that accommodate wheelchairs. The max RV and trailer length is 35 feet.
In Tuolumne Meadows, half of the campgrounds require reservations and half of them are first-come, first-serve basis. The cost is $20 per site per night (up to 6 people), $25 horse sites (up to 6 horses and 6 people) and $40 for group sites (13-30 people). There is a dump station, groceries and bathroom nearby. The showers are at Yosemite Valley (about 1 1/2 hours away). Pets are allowed. The RV and Trailer maxes (not allowed in group sites) are 35 ft (27 ft Trailer allowed in horse sites).
In Porcupine Flats, the cost is $10 per site per night (for up to 6 people). The RV max is 24 ft and Trailer max is 20 ft. The groceries are either at Tuolumne Meadows or Crane Flats and the Dump Station is either at Tuolumne Meadows or Yosemite Valley. Showers are also at Yosemite Valley. Pets are not permitted.
In Bridalveil Creek, the cost per night is $14 per campsite (up to 6 people), $40 for group campsite (13-30 people) and $25 for horse sites (max 6 horses and 6 people). Max RV length is 35 feet and max Trailer length is 24 feet. The groceries and dump station is at Wawona or Yosemite Valley. The showers are at Yosemite Valley.
In Hodgdon Meadow, $20 per night per campsite (up to 6 people) for mid-April to mid-October and $14 for mid-October to mid-April and $40 for group campsite (13-30 people). The max length for RVs is 35 feet (no limitations on having RVs in the group campsite - the only one I've seen so far without that limitation) and max Trailer length is 27 feet (still not allowed in group camp sites). The groceries are at Crane Flats and the dump station and showers are at Yosemite Valley.
In White Wolf, the cost is $14 per night per campsite (up to 6 people). The max RV length is 27 feet and max Trailer length is 24 feet. The groceries are either at Tuolumne Meadows or Crane Flats and the dump station is either at Tuolumne Meadows or Yosemite Valley. Pets are allowed.
In Crane Flats, the cost is $20 per night per campsite (up to 6 people). The max RV length is 35 feet and the max Trailer length is27 feet. Showers and dump station are in Yosemite Valley and groceries are nearby (in the Crane Flats campsite). Pets are allowed. There are two campsites for wheelchairs.
The website to find the above information and more (click on link and it will get you to the right place) is: http://www.nps.gov/
Near the Yosemite National Park, there is an RV Park called High Sierra. This campground is a short drive from Yosemite. Nearby is dining, shopping, fishing and many other local attractions. High Sierra is near the Fresno River. On the website, there is local weather, so you can always know when is a good time to go. Inside High Sierra RV Park are: Trees, swimming, fishing, Wi-Fi, Pets are allowed, camping and RV supplies, free hot showers, clean bathrooms, on-site laundry, recreation hall, on-site dump station, a walk to town and you can choose how long you stay. There are full and partial hook-ups as well as tent sites. Cable TV, fire rings, picnic tables, shaded/open/riverfront sites are available around the RV Park. Also on the website are: area attractions, rates and reservations, photo gallery and a way to contact staff prior to your trip. For more information on this RV park, visit the website: www.highsierrarv.com
Also near Yosemite National Park, there is and RV Resort called Yosemite Pines. They also are pet-friendly and have free Wi-Fi. They also have full/partial/no hookups depending on your needs. Inside the RV resort are the following amenities: swimming pool, convenience store, petting farm, hiking trails, mountain biking, pavilion BBQ and picnic area, meeting/club rooms, gold mine/gold panning activity and laundry room. As well as having RV and tent sites, you can also rent a cabin or a yurt. Included in the website are also: area activities, specials, reservations, photo gallery and more. To visit the website, go to: http://www.yosemitepinesrv.com
If wanting to learn about other national parks, check out this blog post!
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| This is found on www.nps.gov (click the link below all their campsites) |
In Camp 4, the cost is $5/ person (up to 6 people). RVs and trailers are not allowed in this campsite.
In Tamarack Flats, neither RVs nor trailers are recommended.
In Yosemite Creek, neither RVs nor trailers are recommended.
In Upper Pines, the campsites are open year-round, but a reservation is required March through November. The max RV length is 35 feet and max trailer length is 24 feet. It is a dump station. They allow pets. A bathroom, shopping and showers are nearby. There are three campsites for (only) people with disabilities.
In Lower Pines, the cost is $20 a campsite a night (up to 6 people) and reservations are required. The max RV length is 40 and max trailer length is 35. This is also a dump station. Groceries, showers and bathroom nearby. They also allow pets (look at their regulations for more information). There is an extra cost, but special double campsites can accommodate 7-12 people. There are 5 campsites available for those in wheelchairs.
In North Pines, the cost is $20 a campsite a night (up to 6 people) and reservations are required. The max RV length is 40 and max trailer length is 35. This is also a dump station. Groceries, showers and bathroom nearby. They also allow pets (look at their regulations for more information). There are 3 campsites suitable for wheelchairs.
In Wawona, the cost varies - $20 per campsite up to 6 people, $14 a night from October to April, and $40 a night for a group campsite (13-30 people, but they don't allow RVs or trailers in group campsites). There are a couple of horse sites (27 foot trailer allowed). There are groceries and a dump station nearby, pets are allowed, and showers are in Yosemite Valley. Campsite is near to bathrooms. There are two sites that accommodate wheelchairs. The max RV and trailer length is 35 feet.
In Tuolumne Meadows, half of the campgrounds require reservations and half of them are first-come, first-serve basis. The cost is $20 per site per night (up to 6 people), $25 horse sites (up to 6 horses and 6 people) and $40 for group sites (13-30 people). There is a dump station, groceries and bathroom nearby. The showers are at Yosemite Valley (about 1 1/2 hours away). Pets are allowed. The RV and Trailer maxes (not allowed in group sites) are 35 ft (27 ft Trailer allowed in horse sites).
In Porcupine Flats, the cost is $10 per site per night (for up to 6 people). The RV max is 24 ft and Trailer max is 20 ft. The groceries are either at Tuolumne Meadows or Crane Flats and the Dump Station is either at Tuolumne Meadows or Yosemite Valley. Showers are also at Yosemite Valley. Pets are not permitted.
In Bridalveil Creek, the cost per night is $14 per campsite (up to 6 people), $40 for group campsite (13-30 people) and $25 for horse sites (max 6 horses and 6 people). Max RV length is 35 feet and max Trailer length is 24 feet. The groceries and dump station is at Wawona or Yosemite Valley. The showers are at Yosemite Valley.
In Hodgdon Meadow, $20 per night per campsite (up to 6 people) for mid-April to mid-October and $14 for mid-October to mid-April and $40 for group campsite (13-30 people). The max length for RVs is 35 feet (no limitations on having RVs in the group campsite - the only one I've seen so far without that limitation) and max Trailer length is 27 feet (still not allowed in group camp sites). The groceries are at Crane Flats and the dump station and showers are at Yosemite Valley.
In White Wolf, the cost is $14 per night per campsite (up to 6 people). The max RV length is 27 feet and max Trailer length is 24 feet. The groceries are either at Tuolumne Meadows or Crane Flats and the dump station is either at Tuolumne Meadows or Yosemite Valley. Pets are allowed.
In Crane Flats, the cost is $20 per night per campsite (up to 6 people). The max RV length is 35 feet and the max Trailer length is27 feet. Showers and dump station are in Yosemite Valley and groceries are nearby (in the Crane Flats campsite). Pets are allowed. There are two campsites for wheelchairs.
The website to find the above information and more (click on link and it will get you to the right place) is: http://www.nps.gov/
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| To find this pic, look on www.highsierrarv.com |
Near the Yosemite National Park, there is an RV Park called High Sierra. This campground is a short drive from Yosemite. Nearby is dining, shopping, fishing and many other local attractions. High Sierra is near the Fresno River. On the website, there is local weather, so you can always know when is a good time to go. Inside High Sierra RV Park are: Trees, swimming, fishing, Wi-Fi, Pets are allowed, camping and RV supplies, free hot showers, clean bathrooms, on-site laundry, recreation hall, on-site dump station, a walk to town and you can choose how long you stay. There are full and partial hook-ups as well as tent sites. Cable TV, fire rings, picnic tables, shaded/open/riverfront sites are available around the RV Park. Also on the website are: area attractions, rates and reservations, photo gallery and a way to contact staff prior to your trip. For more information on this RV park, visit the website: www.highsierrarv.com
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| To find this wonderful photo, go to www.yosemitepinesrv.com |
Also near Yosemite National Park, there is and RV Resort called Yosemite Pines. They also are pet-friendly and have free Wi-Fi. They also have full/partial/no hookups depending on your needs. Inside the RV resort are the following amenities: swimming pool, convenience store, petting farm, hiking trails, mountain biking, pavilion BBQ and picnic area, meeting/club rooms, gold mine/gold panning activity and laundry room. As well as having RV and tent sites, you can also rent a cabin or a yurt. Included in the website are also: area activities, specials, reservations, photo gallery and more. To visit the website, go to: http://www.yosemitepinesrv.com
Thursday, September 23, 2010
KOA Campgrounds
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| KOA Campground in Orlando, FL |
In case you don't know, KOA stands for Kampgrounds of America. They were founded by Dave Drum in 1962. He, according to wikipedia.org, got the idea for the KOA after one of the times he was walking along his property in Yellowstone River and noticing travelers heading to the Seattle World's Fair. Basically, he saw a possible need and filled it, which as some of us know is the key to any successful business. After 7 years after KOAs were founded, there were 262 KOA sites and now there are 470 KOA sites.
KOA sites are for tent camping and RV camping. Some of the amenities of RV camping are:
- Large, level sites
- "Pull-thru" RVs available for rent or purchase at many sites
- Hookup options for many different sizes of RVs
- Pet-friendly campsites with long walkway
- Laundry facilities
- 50 AMP service at many KOAs
- Easy check-in service
- RV insurance
- RV Buyers and Sellers
- RV Rentals
- RV Repairs
- RV Shows
- Fuel Calculator
- Shopping for camping gears
- Find KOAs in USA and Canada
- Free 2010 KOA camping directory
- You can find out which KOAs have Wi-Fi and which have FREE Wi-Fi
- Family Activity ideas while camping
Do you like beautiful, framed art? Here's one of a sunrise on one of the KOA sites: Sunrise, Lake Whippoorwill, Koa Campground, Orlando, Florida, USA Framed Art Poster Print by Panoramic Images, 51x23
Since there are so many KOAs around, why not check it out on your next trip?!
Monday, September 20, 2010
National Parks, RV Parks nearby, media to buy and FREE parks to try
I just found out that there is a FREE admission (unfortunately that doesn't include RV Park cost, but it DOES include park entrance fee, some concessions and events at different national parks) THIS SATURDAY, SEPT. 25, 2010! To find out more, go to: http://www.examiner.com
Whatever time of year it is, you can find some place that is the weather you prefer. There are many places to tent camp in these parks as well as RV campgrounds nearby. Below websites to find National Parks, I have a few websites of RV Parks near National Parks
The best place online to find National Parks is, of course, going to the source - the National Park Service. The part of their website that is relevant in this search is: http://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm This part of the site is not very aesthetically pleasing, but it's useful and easy to understand.
Another useful site to find National Parks is: http://www.us-national-parks.net/ You can look by park name, state or region. You can also find some incredibly useful resources (that can tell you about different activities in the outdoors as well as State Parks, etc.) at the bottom of the site.
To find out more about the National Park charity, click on: http://www.nationalparks.org/
For most popular and listing of all of the National Parks, visit this site: http://www.nationalparks.com/
Select by state or featured NPs: http://www.areaparks.com/
This has a park locator as well as trip planning, camping, shopping, park fees, scenic byways - look no further: http://www.us-parks.com/
To see what National Geographic thought were the best parks, visit the site below or visit my other blog post : http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com
Yellowstone (Wyoming and Montana) - you can find information at the source (you can probably find other National Park RV Caming on the site as well - this link leads to the right place): http://www.nps.gov/ as well as reading one of my past posts: Yellowstone National Park....
Glacier (Montana)- this park is open through the end of this month - it is Good Sam and AAA approved - there are ideas of what to do in the area, contact information, different magazines and books they are listed into: http://www.mmrvpark.com/
Yosemite (California)- You have a couple of different RV parks near this national park: High Sierra and Yosemite Pines. The High Sierra website has what's nearby, what's inside the park, many photos, reservations, local weather, long-term stay info, maps and directions. http://www.highsierrarv.com/
The Yosemite Pines website seems to have many of the same items that High Sierra has on it. Like High Sierra, they have Wi-Fi and allow pets. What's the difference? Why not check it out for yourself and see which will best fit your needs. http://www.yosemitepinesrv.com/
Mammoth Cave (Kentucky)- This RV Park is open year-round. Mammoth Cave has over 300 feet of caves. This website has tourist attractions nearby, talks about their amenities, allows online reservations, and has a blog of their own. The site is: http://www.cavecountryrv.com/
Grand Teton (Idaho and Wyoming)- There are many RV Parks listed in this site. The contact information for each RV Park is listed. Look here: http://www.ehow.com In this RV Park, you're close enough that you can go to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. This website talks about what you can do during the winter as well as what you can do during the summer. Also included, of course, are amenities of the RV Park. To visit the site, click here http://www.yellowstonerv.com/
http://www.yellowstonerv.com/
Rocky Mountain (Colorado) - In Estes Park, there are many RV Parks. There are many sights to see other than the national park. The features of the RV Parks are listed right there on the front page without having to click any links. As well as lodging, this site also mentions dining and shopping in the area. This website is links to all of the RV Parks in the area, but is created by the Convention and Visitor's Bureau. http://estesparkcvb.com
Zion's (Utah) - This is another useful directory of RV Parks in the area. There are activities, trip planning and where to eat and sleep. There is contact information for each of the RV Parks. The site is: http://www.go-utah.com
Grand Canyon (Arizona) - This directory is similar to the above website - with RV Parks and their contact information as well as other tourist attractions in the area. http://www.go-arizona.com
Acadia (Maine) - This website has all of the links you need for information listed right below the name, "Map Photos Lodging Dining Shopping" In the text, it explains about amenities, reservations, history and the like. The website is: http://www.acadiamagic.com/Blackwoods.html
Denali (Alaska) - On this website, everything is on one page, without having to link to it. You have the contact information, the prices, photos, amenities. There are a few links if you're interested, but this is a VERY user friendly website! http://www.denaliriversiderv.com/
If you'd prefer to watch a DVD about National Parks, click here: Ken Burns: National Parks - America's Best Idea
If reading a hard cover book is more your style, here you go: The National Parks: Our American Landscape
If I didn't mention your favorite national park, let me know and I will find it.
Whatever time of year it is, you can find some place that is the weather you prefer. There are many places to tent camp in these parks as well as RV campgrounds nearby. Below websites to find National Parks, I have a few websites of RV Parks near National Parks
The best place online to find National Parks is, of course, going to the source - the National Park Service. The part of their website that is relevant in this search is: http://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm This part of the site is not very aesthetically pleasing, but it's useful and easy to understand.
Another useful site to find National Parks is: http://www.us-national-parks.net/ You can look by park name, state or region. You can also find some incredibly useful resources (that can tell you about different activities in the outdoors as well as State Parks, etc.) at the bottom of the site.
To find out more about the National Park charity, click on: http://www.nationalparks.org/
For most popular and listing of all of the National Parks, visit this site: http://www.nationalparks.com/
Select by state or featured NPs: http://www.areaparks.com/
This has a park locator as well as trip planning, camping, shopping, park fees, scenic byways - look no further: http://www.us-parks.com/
To see what National Geographic thought were the best parks, visit the site below or visit my other blog post : http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com
Yellowstone (Wyoming and Montana) - you can find information at the source (you can probably find other National Park RV Caming on the site as well - this link leads to the right place): http://www.nps.gov/ as well as reading one of my past posts: Yellowstone National Park....
Glacier (Montana)- this park is open through the end of this month - it is Good Sam and AAA approved - there are ideas of what to do in the area, contact information, different magazines and books they are listed into: http://www.mmrvpark.com/
Yosemite (California)- You have a couple of different RV parks near this national park: High Sierra and Yosemite Pines. The High Sierra website has what's nearby, what's inside the park, many photos, reservations, local weather, long-term stay info, maps and directions. http://www.highsierrarv.com/
The Yosemite Pines website seems to have many of the same items that High Sierra has on it. Like High Sierra, they have Wi-Fi and allow pets. What's the difference? Why not check it out for yourself and see which will best fit your needs. http://www.yosemitepinesrv.com/
Mammoth Cave (Kentucky)- This RV Park is open year-round. Mammoth Cave has over 300 feet of caves. This website has tourist attractions nearby, talks about their amenities, allows online reservations, and has a blog of their own. The site is: http://www.cavecountryrv.com/
Grand Teton (Idaho and Wyoming)- There are many RV Parks listed in this site. The contact information for each RV Park is listed. Look here: http://www.ehow.com In this RV Park, you're close enough that you can go to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. This website talks about what you can do during the winter as well as what you can do during the summer. Also included, of course, are amenities of the RV Park. To visit the site, click here http://www.yellowstonerv.com/
http://www.yellowstonerv.com/
Rocky Mountain (Colorado) - In Estes Park, there are many RV Parks. There are many sights to see other than the national park. The features of the RV Parks are listed right there on the front page without having to click any links. As well as lodging, this site also mentions dining and shopping in the area. This website is links to all of the RV Parks in the area, but is created by the Convention and Visitor's Bureau. http://estesparkcvb.com
Zion's (Utah) - This is another useful directory of RV Parks in the area. There are activities, trip planning and where to eat and sleep. There is contact information for each of the RV Parks. The site is: http://www.go-utah.com
Grand Canyon (Arizona) - This directory is similar to the above website - with RV Parks and their contact information as well as other tourist attractions in the area. http://www.go-arizona.com
Acadia (Maine) - This website has all of the links you need for information listed right below the name, "Map Photos Lodging Dining Shopping" In the text, it explains about amenities, reservations, history and the like. The website is: http://www.acadiamagic.com/Blackwoods.html
Denali (Alaska) - On this website, everything is on one page, without having to link to it. You have the contact information, the prices, photos, amenities. There are a few links if you're interested, but this is a VERY user friendly website! http://www.denaliriversiderv.com/
If you'd prefer to watch a DVD about National Parks, click here: Ken Burns: National Parks - America's Best Idea
If reading a hard cover book is more your style, here you go: The National Parks: Our American Landscape
If I didn't mention your favorite national park, let me know and I will find it.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Florida RV Parks
Since Florida is a year-round tourist attraction, I figured it would be appropriate to post on this topic.
You can also check out some of the other states' RV parks (not inclusive lists): UT, CO, NV
If wanting to also check out some national parks, the link will lead you to my blog post about them.
I will list websites below, but in case you want to read a book about the subject, here's the one from Amazon that I think is the most appropriate: The Unofficial Guide to the Best RV and Tent Campgrounds in Florida & the Southeast, First Edition
This site is a guide for all states. You can rent an RV, Park Model Home (view my post on Park Model Homes or my Glossary of Terms to learn more) or other interesting lodging accommodations. You can also review an RV site, or look for an RV site. http://www.gocampingamerica.com/florida
This site is very aesthetically pleasing and has much interaction/photos available. You can look for RV campgrounds, become a member of the camper club and also order an official guide. http://campflorida.com/
This site mentions Florida's attractions, Florida State Parks, places to stay, how to get where you want to go. It's mostly geared toward the traditional tourist, not the RV tourist, but you can still find some information that will be useful on the links on the left sidebar. http://www.floridaparks.com/
For Florida RV Resorts with plenty of wonderful amenities, look no further. You can rent by the day, week, or month. There are four locations. Feel free to check out the website or request a brochure. http://www.eliteresorts.com/
For a free (I think it's free - you have to enter your name and e-mail address) e-book on RV camping locations, check this out: http://www.ultimatervcamping.com/
http://www.floridaparks.com/
Want cheap RV camping in Florida? Check out the locations on this site! It's a club similar to Good Sam Club. http://www.camphalfprice.com/
RV resorts and parks, great deals, place to enter when you're departing and arriving, Top 5 of what you must visit while going to Orlando, beautiful photos and you can join their e-mail club. http://www.rvonthego.com/
Happy Hunting!
You can also check out some of the other states' RV parks (not inclusive lists): UT, CO, NV
If wanting to also check out some national parks, the link will lead you to my blog post about them.
I will list websites below, but in case you want to read a book about the subject, here's the one from Amazon that I think is the most appropriate: The Unofficial Guide to the Best RV and Tent Campgrounds in Florida & the Southeast, First Edition
This site is a guide for all states. You can rent an RV, Park Model Home (view my post on Park Model Homes or my Glossary of Terms to learn more) or other interesting lodging accommodations. You can also review an RV site, or look for an RV site. http://www.gocampingamerica.com/florida
This site is very aesthetically pleasing and has much interaction/photos available. You can look for RV campgrounds, become a member of the camper club and also order an official guide. http://campflorida.com/
This site mentions Florida's attractions, Florida State Parks, places to stay, how to get where you want to go. It's mostly geared toward the traditional tourist, not the RV tourist, but you can still find some information that will be useful on the links on the left sidebar. http://www.floridaparks.com/
For Florida RV Resorts with plenty of wonderful amenities, look no further. You can rent by the day, week, or month. There are four locations. Feel free to check out the website or request a brochure. http://www.eliteresorts.com/
For a free (I think it's free - you have to enter your name and e-mail address) e-book on RV camping locations, check this out: http://www.ultimatervcamping.com/
http://www.floridaparks.com/
Want cheap RV camping in Florida? Check out the locations on this site! It's a club similar to Good Sam Club. http://www.camphalfprice.com/
RV resorts and parks, great deals, place to enter when you're departing and arriving, Top 5 of what you must visit while going to Orlando, beautiful photos and you can join their e-mail club. http://www.rvonthego.com/
Happy Hunting!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Eiffel Tower...and stuff
So, apparently in Paris, France, a few hours ago, the Eiffel Tower was evacuated (nearly 2,000 people) due to a bomb threat. Click the link to see the full article and photo. http://ph.news.yahoo.com/
How does this relate to RVs and RV Parks....Well, it doesn't. Well, maybe it relates a little bit. Doesn't that look like a camper van (a.k.a. Class B RV) in the front of the Eiffel Tower? Does anyone know what make and model it is?
I couldn't find any RV Parks near the Eiffel Tower, to make this article fit more, but I DID find RV Parks in and near Paris, Texas - FOUR, to be exact. Plus, there is a mock Eiffel Tower (with a cowboy hat on top) in Paris, Texas. So, if you're looking for a little bit of Paris right here in the states, these RV parks might be places to investigate or stay. To check it out, click: http://www.ehow.com/list_6726963_rv-parks-paris_-texas.html. Pat Mayse Lake is nearby Paris, TX and one of the biggest reasons tourists stop by and stay a while. You can go fishing, tent camping, (obviously) RV camping, hiking, observe nature, picnic or just listen to nature (one of my favorite things to do in nature - it's the most beautiful symphony I've ever heard). If headed to Texas, it sounds like an inviting and fun place to stop.
Monday, September 13, 2010
What the fracking flip?
Sounds like a real phrase some mormons might use instead of swearing, but "fracking" is an actual term to mean getting natural gas from shale. The Environmental Protection Agency is concerned that fracking will pollute water and air. The reason fracking is becoming so popular is because it brings natural gas prices down and this natural gas can be an alternative to coal for electric power generators. Despite protests, fracking is skyrocketing and the US natural gas reserve has as well. To read more, see http://www.csmonitor.com/
How does this relate to RVing? Well, does anyone know of an RV that can take natural gas for fuel instead of diesel? Ever heard of the Avanti Ecostar? Apparently, it's the first natural gas RV that came out onto the market about a year ago (August 29- September 8, 2009). For more information on that, check out: http://www.ngvglobal.com/ Also, if you know of any other RVs at this point that are natural gas powered, let me know. I'd LOVE to hear about it!
How long do you think it will be until other RVs are natural gas powered? Maybe the Class A will never be natural gas powered (look at my "glossary of terms" post in June for a refresher as to what a Class A RV is if needed), but very possibly (more) Class B or C will be natural gas powered in the future. Do you think it's possible, probable, both or neither?
There are a couple of books you might be interested in on Amazon for more information on fracking and the fracking controversy: Collateral Damage: A Chronicle of Lives devastated by Gas and Oil Development and the Valient Grassroots Fight to Effect Political and Legislative Change ... Gas and Oil Industry in the United States
& EPA tackles fracking.(MINING)(Environmental Protection Agency): An article from: Environmental Health Perspectives
Good fracking luck!
How does this relate to RVing? Well, does anyone know of an RV that can take natural gas for fuel instead of diesel? Ever heard of the Avanti Ecostar? Apparently, it's the first natural gas RV that came out onto the market about a year ago (August 29- September 8, 2009). For more information on that, check out: http://www.ngvglobal.com/ Also, if you know of any other RVs at this point that are natural gas powered, let me know. I'd LOVE to hear about it!
How long do you think it will be until other RVs are natural gas powered? Maybe the Class A will never be natural gas powered (look at my "glossary of terms" post in June for a refresher as to what a Class A RV is if needed), but very possibly (more) Class B or C will be natural gas powered in the future. Do you think it's possible, probable, both or neither?
There are a couple of books you might be interested in on Amazon for more information on fracking and the fracking controversy: Collateral Damage: A Chronicle of Lives devastated by Gas and Oil Development and the Valient Grassroots Fight to Effect Political and Legislative Change ... Gas and Oil Industry in the United States
& EPA tackles fracking.(MINING)(Environmental Protection Agency): An article from: Environmental Health PerspectivesGood fracking luck!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Dump holding/sewer tanks - for new RVers
Since I don't have any experience on this, I figured I'd consult the experts.
Here are a few things I learned from the videos on You Tube. Black Water is what comes out of your toilet and Gray water is what comes out of the shower and sinks. There are different types and places on different types of RVs to empty out your water tanks. Make sure the hose isn't kinked when you dump the sewage into the RV dumping station/ your own draining hole. Make sure you always wear gloves - some usually leaks out when opening the valve. Also dump the black water hose first and then the gray water hose to clean out the hose a bit.
You can buy a product called "Xtreme Vent" if you want a different design on the water tank so it doesn't stink up the cabin (if it does when toilet flushes and wind blows the wrong way). It's designed to blow in the wind. AP Products 006-79 White Powder Coated Xtreme Vent
I looked up more information on the subject and apparently many RV Park dump stations are closing because RVers have been abusing the right to use dumping stations by using formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals. Make sure you have needed "couplings and connectors." Also make sure you have 10' and 20' heavy duty septic hoses to make sure you have the right size when you need it. Make sure that you wait to dump the holding tanks until they are 2/3 full - the draining uses gravity and works better when you do it that way. This may sound odd, but apparently there's special toilet paper made for RVs that breaks down in the holding tank. Here's some actually: Scott Toilet Paper, Rapid-Dissolving 4 ea
There's a lot more information in the article and if you'd rather read an article versus watch a video, or both, read the full article at: http://ezinearticles.com/?RV-Tips-for-Holding-Tanks&id=171532 Apparently, the author also has a website: www.rveducation101.com. Looks like another excellent resource for beginning RVers!
If you'd rather watch a video, you have a couple choices -
The more boring, but also more informative video (click on the link for the correct video): http://www.youtube.com/
The fun, and tells you the basics video: http://www.youtube.com/
Good luck with this unpleasant yet necessary task :P
Here are a few things I learned from the videos on You Tube. Black Water is what comes out of your toilet and Gray water is what comes out of the shower and sinks. There are different types and places on different types of RVs to empty out your water tanks. Make sure the hose isn't kinked when you dump the sewage into the RV dumping station/ your own draining hole. Make sure you always wear gloves - some usually leaks out when opening the valve. Also dump the black water hose first and then the gray water hose to clean out the hose a bit.
You can buy a product called "Xtreme Vent" if you want a different design on the water tank so it doesn't stink up the cabin (if it does when toilet flushes and wind blows the wrong way). It's designed to blow in the wind. AP Products 006-79 White Powder Coated Xtreme Vent
I looked up more information on the subject and apparently many RV Park dump stations are closing because RVers have been abusing the right to use dumping stations by using formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals. Make sure you have needed "couplings and connectors." Also make sure you have 10' and 20' heavy duty septic hoses to make sure you have the right size when you need it. Make sure that you wait to dump the holding tanks until they are 2/3 full - the draining uses gravity and works better when you do it that way. This may sound odd, but apparently there's special toilet paper made for RVs that breaks down in the holding tank. Here's some actually: Scott Toilet Paper, Rapid-Dissolving 4 ea
There's a lot more information in the article and if you'd rather read an article versus watch a video, or both, read the full article at: http://ezinearticles.com/?RV-Tips-for-Holding-Tanks&id=171532 Apparently, the author also has a website: www.rveducation101.com. Looks like another excellent resource for beginning RVers!If you'd rather watch a video, you have a couple choices -
The more boring, but also more informative video (click on the link for the correct video): http://www.youtube.com/
The fun, and tells you the basics video: http://www.youtube.com/
Good luck with this unpleasant yet necessary task :P
Thursday, September 9, 2010
RV Parks are like dating
I don't mean the fruit, though some of the people we've dated (or married:P) have been fruity.
I'm sure you have your own categories, and I'd LOVE to hear yours, but these are my categories of how RV Parks relate to dating/dates (Names have been changed): Chris, Joe, Steve, Robert, James, Charlie and Matt.
Chris is the type that tries to impress but doesn't. Everything they do is because that's what they think you want to hear. The website/brochure is just what you're looking for as a place to stay. It sounds like it will work out very well on your trip and you are looking forward to staying there. However, something just feels like the host of the RV campsite just doesn't get many visitors. They are constantly asking what they can do to serve you better and if there's anything they can do to help when all you want is to be left alone to do your own thing. It's almost too much help and probably owned by a lonely individual/couple.
With Joe, you feel a spark but fizzles. The website is wonderful. When you get there, it's just as wonderful as the brochure made it sound. Everything works well and it's beautifully landscaped. Then, something happens or maybe nothing happens at all to cause the transformation. It's not horrible the next day (or week), but it's like you're ignored all of a sudden. You have problems and complain, but nothing gets done. No one is outright rude to you, they just aren't attentive to your needs or problems.
As with the others, the website/brochure looks wonderful. With Steve, it works OK but something is not right. Maybe you feel someone looking over your shoulder, so to speak. Maybe the host/hostess is just downright rude. Maybe your intuition just tells you someone is hiding something from you. The amenities promised aren't all there, or they are but it looks like someone is cutting corners.
Robert just feels like family (which can be a good or bad thing depending on your family). There is a common area where you can meet other RVers and you just connect with them. The host/hostess are kind without being overbearing. This is a place you want to visit over and over again. It's wonderful to feel at home, especially in the sometimes lonely lifestyle of full-time RVing.
Sometimes RV Parks are like James, not perfect but suits your needs. Yes, there maybe some lapses in wireless internet service or chips in the paint in the laundromat, but it works alright. Your sewer, water, and electricity all connect easily and run well. You don't feel any connections with the other RVers or host/hostess, but no one is annoying. The RV park is just there - a 5 on a scale of 1-10 (not fantastic or horrible).
How many RV parks are like Charlie, blind date? The whole experience is just awkward. You can't figure out where the RV park is to begin with and once you're there, you can't figure out how everything works. Yes, you've been to many different RV parks, but there's something a little weird about this one that you can't figure out. Then there's the host/hostess. The only way to describe them is eccentric. The whole experience makes you feel like you've never done this before, and, maybe never want to again.
When you encounter a Matt, your life as an RVer will never be the same. OOOOHHH LA LA! Every other RV park is measured up to this one. Everything works fantastically, everyone is kind to you, the RV site is just GORGEOUS. You just never want to leave. It's a slice of heaven in your RV for these days.
Tell me about your experiences in different RV parks, so we can all benefit from them and know where to go, or where not to go.
On another subject, for a book on dating, check here: Search Amazon.com for dating
Monday, September 6, 2010
RV parking - opinions on an article I read
I recently read an article that was giving people strict regulations on where they can park near an RV campsite just because some of the community members think RVs are big and ugly. How ASININE is that?! There are not very many spots, in relation to amount of spots other vehicles have to park, RVs can even park, and the community wants to take THOSE away?! What's next? Cutting out RV campgrounds all together? Reducing the size of RV campgrounds so only one or two RVs can park there at a time?
To read the full article, go to:
To read the full article, go to:
Friday, September 3, 2010
RV Parks in Nevada
There are many ways to find RV parks in Nevada - some of which are listed on my other blog posts for RV parks in other states: UT, CO, FL.
If looking also for national parks, click here to guide you to one of my blog posts.
The first I really like is Travel Nevada for not only RV travel, but bed and breakfasts and hotel accommodations. Just click here (the URL is too long): http://travelnevada.com/
The next site I like is AllStays. It's not as aesthetically pleasing (pretty) as the above website, but seems to have a lot more information about many different options, like "Yoga Retreats," "Pet-Friendly, and "Family Friendly" locations. The URL is: http://www.allstays.com/
Looking to gamble in/travel to Mesquite? Here is a BEAUTIFUL website and RV park. The URL is: http://www.desertskiesresorts.com/
How about Las Vegas and surrounding areas? We can't forget that tourist attraction. This website has information not only in Las Vegas, but also surrounding areas. The URL is: http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/las-vegas-rv-parks.htm
This also is for the whole state of Nevada. There are google ads in the main area, but below that is the information about the RV parks. If you simply go to ecampsite.com, it can be for other states as well. The URL is: http://www.ecampsite.com/campgrounds/listings.php?st_id=nevada
In Reno, NV, you can stay at an RV park that has monthly rates as well as daily rates. It gives a lot of information about what to do in the area, other than of course gambling. Its URL is: http://www.bonanzaterracervpark.com/
Cheap or FREE - does that grab your attention. You can park on certain public lands in NV - find out which ones on this website: http://publiclands.org/explore/index.php?plicstate=NV
Happy hunting!
If looking also for national parks, click here to guide you to one of my blog posts.
The first I really like is Travel Nevada for not only RV travel, but bed and breakfasts and hotel accommodations. Just click here (the URL is too long): http://travelnevada.com/
The next site I like is AllStays. It's not as aesthetically pleasing (pretty) as the above website, but seems to have a lot more information about many different options, like "Yoga Retreats," "Pet-Friendly, and "Family Friendly" locations. The URL is: http://www.allstays.com/
Looking to gamble in/travel to Mesquite? Here is a BEAUTIFUL website and RV park. The URL is: http://www.desertskiesresorts.com/
How about Las Vegas and surrounding areas? We can't forget that tourist attraction. This website has information not only in Las Vegas, but also surrounding areas. The URL is: http://www.lasvegas-nv.com/las-vegas-rv-parks.htm
This also is for the whole state of Nevada. There are google ads in the main area, but below that is the information about the RV parks. If you simply go to ecampsite.com, it can be for other states as well. The URL is: http://www.ecampsite.com/campgrounds/listings.php?st_id=nevada
In Reno, NV, you can stay at an RV park that has monthly rates as well as daily rates. It gives a lot of information about what to do in the area, other than of course gambling. Its URL is: http://www.bonanzaterracervpark.com/
Cheap or FREE - does that grab your attention. You can park on certain public lands in NV - find out which ones on this website: http://publiclands.org/explore/index.php?plicstate=NV
Happy hunting!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Online RV reservations???
I just got an e-mail about this website and was blown away with how much useful information there is. The website is: http://www.trailerlifedirectory.com/ and it is the "official Sam Club directory."
This is an AWESOME website, telling you many useful things for RVers of any experience! Here are some of the many things you can do/find:
Here's a book you can buy if you're interested in a past edition of the Trailer Life: 2006 Trailer Life RV Parks & Campground Navigator
This is an AWESOME website, telling you many useful things for RVers of any experience! Here are some of the many things you can do/find:
- Plan your RV trip and find out where RV campgrounds are along your trip
- RV forums, ranging from types of RVs (Class A, B, C, etc.) to RV cooking tips and RVs for beginners
- Description of what Good Sam Club is and the benefits offered to members
- Place ONLINE reservations for your next RV park/resort
- RV show information - when and where
- Activity ideas while RVing
- RV park locator
- If you're selling an RV, find out how much it's worth first - also buying information
- Blogs to share and find ideas for all sorts of things like cooking and RV repairs
- Pet friendly locations
- Things to take into consideration with disabilities and health concerns
- A store with books, maps and videos
Here's a book you can buy if you're interested in a past edition of the Trailer Life: 2006 Trailer Life RV Parks & Campground Navigator
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