May Blog

May Blog

The summer kicked off with Memorial Day weekend, the time when RVers hit the road for the first camping trip of the season for many people and families. But this year that holiday weekend and unofficial summer kickoff was met with gas prices hovering the $4 mark and diesel even higher. And guess what, many people still went camping.

Now, official numbers haven’t yet been released, and I did personally see many campers, travel trailers and motorhomes sitting in driveways. But I was looking. I wondered how gas would impact our camping and RV travel. I don’t know if it did or not, but AAA estimated that the number of Americans who would travel during the Memorial Day holiday would drop, with 37.87 million Americans expected to travel 50 miles or more from home, a decrease of nearly 360,000 travelers (0.9 percent) from last year’s total of 38.23 million. .

As I told you earlier, my family didn’t go out this year because our son was graduating from high school on June 1 and we had an open house and graduation to prepare for. That’s the only thing that kept us home. In fact, as gas prices creep up, we bought a new tow vehicle for our 29-foot Jayco. While many people are downsizing, we needed a travel vehicle to tow our travel trailer, and we’re not about to stop camping!

So, with a new truck in the driveway, we’re already looking ahead for the next opportunity to hitch up the camper and go. And we will go. We may make cuts other places, but camping is something the whole family enjoys. And our son is leaving in August for college, so there’s only so much time to still have the whole family together.

We have a few open houses left and a nephew’s wedding in mid-June, but after those are past, we’re heading out on the open road, even with more money going to gas. We’ll cut back other places and make adjustments, but camping with the family is a treat and a wonderful time for us to spend together with few outside interruptions. And we’re not alone.

The Campfire Canvass survey by RVIA found that 93 percent of RV owners intend to use their RV as often or more frequently this summer as last. And, more than one-third said fuel costs would not affect their travel plans. Others, however, said they will adjust their travel plans to conserve fuel by staying closer to home and spending more time in one place.

In addition, 83 percent of the nation’s campgrounds reported that summer reservations are the same or better than they were in 2005, according to a recent survey by Michigan State University and published by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds.

So, if there’s a will, there’s a way. And we’ll find ours on the open road leading to a camping destination. Make room at the campfire, we’re coming in.

ARVC March Blog

ARVC March Blog

Is a seasonal camping space right for you, or should you take your camper on the road and experience several camping locations?

These are questions that campers may ask themselves at different times in their lives. Whether it’s when they get their first travel trailer or their third motorhome, different times in life bring different camping needs and desires.

Having a seasonal site - a destination that you can take advantage of each weekend or vacation that you can get away - makes sense to many people who see their RV or motorhome as a second home or vacation home. However, for others, the experience of finding someplace new to enjoy makes more sense, so they enjoy hitting the road each weekend or vacation time they can manage to get away.

But whether you choose to hit the same spot each time, knowing that your home on wheels with some possible amenities you won’t receive at a weekend only getaway - such as a permanent deck off your RV or knowing your weekend neighbors - or your choose the freshness of something new - visiting new parks with new experiences and activities, you can find many places to enjoy your RV. And with spring here and warmer days on the horizon, now is the time to make your choice - permanent or transient.

One way to decide is to try a park that offers seasonal sites during the summer and see what you think. Talk to the seasonal park users and see if they seem to have the same expectations from their destination as you.

Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself to determine what is best for you:

Do I want to haul my camper once this season, or would I rather drive it regularly to my destination?

Do I want to visit the same place each weekend, or each time I can get away, or do I want fresh experiences?

Do I want to leave things where they are, and just bring what we’ll need for the weekend or week, whatever the length of visit?

Do I have the time to make reservations for each weekend or vacation?

Would I rather make my reservation once - in the spring?

Will I use my camper enough to cover the cost of the seasonal site?

Will I use my camper more if I have it readily available for spontaneous trips?

Will I tire of the same place?

Do I see my RV as a second home?

Do I see my RV as a home on wheels that can take me to new places?

Whatever your answers to these questions, here are some parks you may want to try. They offer both weekend and seasonal sites.

* Honcho Rest Campground, Elk Rapids, Mich. Opened May 1-Oct. 7 with 58 sites.

* Adirondack Camping Village, Lake George, N.Y. Opened Mid-May-Mid-Sept. with 165 sites.

* Pinecrest RV Park Resort, Russell Springs, Ky. Opened April 1-Oct. 31 with 50-plus sites.

* Beaver Lake Campground, Custer, S.D. Opened March 1-Oct.1

Spring Break is a perfect time to begin camping

While many people hit the roads and skies to find warm weather for those weeks dedicated in March and April as vacation weeks from school, whether you call it Spring Break, Easter Vacation, Spring Vacation, it’s a time when schools let out for a break from school work and parents take the opportunity, in many cases, to take a break as well and head to warmer weather for a week of sun and relaxation.

But if you have a week, why not take your camper or motorhome along for the ride? Those warm weather destinations also are home to many RV parks and campgrounds, and why not save some money along the way?

We all know it’s cheaper to cook your own food, rather than eat out, and staying in a park at park rates beats the hotel, plus you have more than just a bed – you have your own little house with a living area, kitchen and dinette area, as well as some privacy in the bedroom and sleeping areas.

And there’s no waiting on flights that are delayed.

Plus, that leaves more money for other things, like souvenirs and entertainment.

Although we aren't going to be able to take a family spring break trip this year, we have been known to haul our camper to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to relax and enjoy the sun.

A few years ago we made the trek to Myrtle Beach and partook in the hospitality of PirateLand Family Camping Resort, where my husband, kids, my parents, my brother, and myself hauled our campers to the coast and coasted for the week.

PirateLand has its own private beach on the ocean, giving us easy access to the sandy shoreline, the salty water and all of its inhabitants. We walked and jogged the beach, discovered shells, which my daughter insisted on taking home - all of them, and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.

PirateLand offers its guests a pool if they Atlantic temperatures are too cool for their liking, as well as its Lazy River, where floating on a tube around the "river" and its gentle bends can make a lovely day pass quietly.

So, when planning your spring vacation, don't forget that your RV isn't only for the summer camping season. Think about breaking it out early and checking out the parks near your destination, whether it's Florida, South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, whatever warm weather area might tickle your fancy.

Some other parks in those warm weather vacation areas are:

Myrtle Beach:
Apache Family Campground
Lakewood Camping Resort Inc.
Myrtle Beach KOA Kampground
Myrtle Beach Travel Park
Ocean Lakes Family Campground

Panama City Beach, Fla.:
Camper’s Inn
Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort
Panama City Beach RV Resort
Park Place RV Park and Motel

Savannah, Ga.:
Savannah Oaks RV Park

Corpus Christi, Texas:
Colonia Del Ray
Greyhound RV Park
Hatch RV Park
Laguna Shore Village
Marina Village RV Park
Padre Palms Travel Park
Puerto Del Sol Resort

Go Camping, America!

I know the warm weather’s coming

While we await the newest snowstorm to hit the Midwest, I’m planning summer camping trips and making reservations. And a word of advice, if you’re planning to go camping during the “first unofficial weekend of the summer” – Memorial Day – now is the time to make reservations!

While I consider our summer activities – which must be planned around our son’s high school graduation, other family graduations, my nephew’s wedding and our daughter’s sports and 4-H – I think about the cost of gas and what that may or may not do the camping and RVing industry. For us, we may stay a little closer to home than we did last year, although part of that is just the hectic summer schedule. The other part is that we need to buy a new tow vehicle and we’re trying to make the right decision.

But while I contemplate these things, I also want to let those of you who are able to spend more time in the RV to consider working at campgrounds and RV parks – known in the industry as “workamping.” This is one way to make some money while you’re on the road and let your RV work for you.

Earlier this month, Workamper® News – a publication aimed at those who want to find ways to earn money and in some cases other benefits while spending their time traveling in their RV – held two job fairs to assist those interested in workamping.

For those of you who have an interest, there are a few suggestions the publication gives, such as identifying the type of work you want and the area where you’d like to spend some time. And, make sure you understand the agreement with your new employer.

There are also other things to consider. If you’re married, do you and your spouse want to work, or just one of you? This could determine where you look for a position, considering what the park needs.

Positions can be part-time or full-time, and some positions can even be on a volunteer basis.

Whatever your needs, there are many positions at parks – from being campgrounds hosts where your site is identified as a place for other campers and RVers to get information, and even in some cases, a cup of coffee in the morning, to cleaning bathrooms and other facilities. Some might work in camp stores while others work as recreational directors. The positions vary and the pay varies. Just make sure you understand all the terms going in, so neither you nor your new employer will be disappointed. Once you’ve signed on to work at a park, just as any employer, they are counting on you fulfilling your commitment.

Summer’s coming! Enjoy!

Winter Camping isn’t just for snowbirds

While camping or RVing may not top the list of many RV owners during the winter months, for those who want to take the camper out for a weekend or longer, there are options available beyond those for Snowbirds.

Whether you’re someone who lives in areas with a warm winter climate, or someone who wants to escape the cold of the north for a quick RV trip, there are parks that have their sites and arms opened to you. Winter camping isn’t just for Snowbirders anymore.

Although you may be heading to similar destinations as Snowbirds flock to, such as Texas and Florida, not all parks cater only to those retirees who make their winter homes in an RV park.

One such destination is Whispering Pines Resort & Campground in Tyler, Texas. The park has a family focus and continues activities for the entire family throughout the winter months. Recently, when a dance with a live band was held for “older” guests, a DJ and more modern music was available to the younger guests of the park.

Located in eastern Texas, the park is nestled within pine trees, offering guests 100 sites, including some pull-thrus, with a variety of hookup offers – partial to full. The park also has 20 cabins and 20 RV rentals.

Amenities include free Wi-Fi, adult pool/spa, family pool, laundry facilities, a gift store and numerous planned activities.

There are nature trails, as well as hiking and biking trails, fishing and swimming in the lake, pond or ocean. The park also offers miniature golf.

Another Texas stop is Puerto del Sol RV Resort in Corpus Christi, Texas

The park is located on the bay and has numerous local attractions for guests to visit, including the USS Lexington and state aquarium.

There are 53 sites and all are pull-thru, with the option of full or partial hookups. The park also offers 10 tent sites.

There’s a store onsite, along with laundry facilities and Internet access in specific park locations.

There’s swimming in the lake, pond or ocean and a boat launch is in the park.

For those who are looking for a getaway in Florida, Lake City Campground in Lake City, Fla. is open.

The park offers shady and sunny, full hookup pull-thru sites, as well as tent sites. With 50 total sites, options range from partial to full hookups, as well as back in or pull-thru sites. There are also five rental cabins.

The park is located alongside the Osceola National Forest and just 10 miles from the Stephen Foster Folk Center. Families can take a relaxing tubing trip on the Suwannee River or head 20 miles to the Ichetucknee Springs State Park for more tubing. For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, there’s also fishing, hiking and biking trails, nature trails and a swimming pool in the park.

Lake City Campground also is home to mockingbirds, whippoorwills, owls and other warblers.

Wi-Fi and a store are also offered in the park, along with an arcade and game room that includes a pool table, board games and a TV.

Whatever your warm weather choices, be sure to take advantage of the opportunities for all winter campers. But, like all camping seasons, don’t forget to call ahead and make reservations, so that you can leave your cares behind with the cold weather and enjoy your get away in the warmer weather of the states.

Checklist for Snowbirding

It’s that time of year – the time when most RVers either revel in the memories of the summer camping season and wait for spring, or become Snowbirds and head to warmer weather for the winter.

If you’re the latter, there are some things to consider and to take care of before packing up for the winter. For those who have done this before, it’s routine, but for someone new to Snowbirding, there is a good way to do it.

First of all, Snowbirds are simply people going to warmer climates for the winter – like birds traditionally fly south for the winter. Once, the Snowbird lifestyle was considered only for the wealthy and the famous. Today, however, the Snowbird lifestyle is for anyone, and includes many RVers. Some of the most popular destinations in the United States for RVing Snowbirds are Florida, Arizona and Texas.

But before you hit the road, there are some things you should do.

First, know where you’re going. Don’t expect that just because it’s winter there won’t be many RVers. That’s just not true. In fact, according to the American Camper Profiles & Perspectives study, conducted by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), 5 percent of active campers are Snowbirds, as are 11 percent of total RV owners.

So, make your reservations!

And, decide what to do with home services while you are gone, including mail delivery. You can have the U.S. Post Office hold your mail, but if you have bills and other items that you need to take care of on a regular basis, you may want to consider a mail service. These services send your mail to you at your snowbird destination, and can change that destination if you’re moving from one RV location to another during the winter months. Just make sure you check out the service you’re using and get references.

Most RV clubs offer mail services to their members including the Family Motorcoach Association (FMCA), the Good Sam Club and the Escapees RV Club.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you’ll need employment while away from home and enjoying the warm-weather region.

Working RVers – known as Workampers™ - find temporary employment while on the road. These jobs can be found through newspapers, online listings, and other options, but Workamper News is a service that caters directly to RVers. Many of the listings handled by the newspaper include positions with campgrounds and RV parks, theme parks and a variety of other venues. Payment for positions varies, and sometimes may include the value of a site when working at RV parks. Make sure you understand all the terms and that the compensation is at least equal to the applicable minimum wage, according to Workamper News.

For those who aren’t seeking employment, check out your destination area to ensure you’ll be happy in your home away from home for the winter months. Talk to others who have visited your destination and ask for recommendation of things to do. And remember, many of the Snowbird destinations cater to an older crowd, so take them up on their activities and outings. Remember, they know the area and their business is keeping their winter guests happy.

Once you have all your details in place, leave your cares behind with the cold weather and enjoy the winter sun.

Next month we’ll look at whether there is a winter season for traveling RVers or families who still like to take their rigs out for the weekend.

Winterizing isn’t a welcome time

For many campers and RVers, putting away the gear for winter is a chore that must be done, but not without remorse that the camping season is over.

While many Snowbirds take to the road and head to warm weather states for the winter, many of us are still tied to a job or kids in school, or both, and must put our rigs away for the next camping season. It’s almost like putting the Christmas and New Year’s decorations away after a festive holiday season.

But when it comes to winterizing your RV, there are items you shouldn’t forget.

Winterizing the RVs water system is the most important piece of winterizing your unit.

Complete steps should be in your RV owner information.

There are also suggestions for RVs not stored inside, such as wheel covers and tarps to protect it from the elements.

While instructions and suggestions for preparing your unit for winter can be found in your owner’s manual or RV papers, don’t fear, if this is something you don’t want to do yourself, or don’t feel confident. Most RV service centers offer winterizing services, and can give you suggestions for storage. Just make an appointment, hitch up your RV one more time, and take it to the pros. Once it’s done, you can take it home for winter storage.

For those of you who can still get out and enjoy the RV, there are some great winter destinations, and below are just a few of the many great parks available.

Florida:

Whispering Palms in Sebastian, Fla. caters to the 55-plus crowd with 572 sites in its RV resort and manufactured home community. Situated along Florida's Treasure Coast, Sebastian offers beaches, fishing, and an average year-round temperature of 73 degrees. Whispering Palms amenities include: activities, billiards, dancing, outdoor games, a lake, Internet access, tennis and pets are welcome. In addition, there is a recreation room and library. There is also nearby golfing, sailing and windsurfing and numerous fishing and sightseeing opportunities.

Whispering Palms Mobile Home and RV Community, 10305 US Hwy #1, Sebastian, Fla. 32958; (800) 414-0814, (772) 589-3481; fax: (772) 589-3477; e-mail whisperingpalms@bellsouth.net

Indian Creek RV Resort is a Florida 55+ Community with numerous amenities, including shuffleboard courts, five tennis courts, three heated pools, spas, 21 private lakes and Wi-Fi, and just a short bike ride form Ft. Myers Beach. Nearby activities are boating, fishing, shelling, golf, museums, historic homes, nature preserves, dog racing, and major league baseball spring training.

The resort offers 1,204 sites, with various options, including pull-thru sites, 50-amp service and full hookups. Other site amenities include phone service, cable TV and Internet access.

Indian Creek, 17340 San Carlos Blvd., Ft. Myers Beach, Fla. 33931; (800) 967-0138.

Arizona:

Prospectors RV Resort is a two-season park open year-round with activities planned for each season. The 96 full hookup sites include cable TV, Internet access and phone service. Other amenities include a heated pool, spa, game room, laundry room, fitness room, and organized activities that include ice cream socials, bingo, popcorn and movie night and organized dinners and holiday events.

Prospectors RV Resort, 4750 N. London Bridge, Lake Havasu City, Ariz. 86404; (928) 764-2000, fax: (928) 764-2108.

Voyager at Juniper Ridge is in the White Mountains and offers a 9-hole golf course, tennis court, bocce, shuffleboard, billiards, pool, hot tub, craft rooms, entertainment, and a fishing lake. The 529 sites include 17 pull thru sites, 125 50-amp sites and 125 full hookups. There are also four Cabins and six RV rentals available.

Voyager is an adult Park.

Voyager at Juniper Ridge, 1993 Juniper Ridge Drive, Show Low, Ariz. 85901; (186) 653-4345; info@juniperridgerv.com; www.juniperridgerv.com.

Shangri-La RV Resort is family-owned and operated with a swimming pool and spa, planned activities, shuffleboard, horseshoes, volleyball and free cable TV. The 302-site resort offers 18 pull thru sites; 302 30-amp, 302 50-amp, and 302 full hookup sites, as well as an RV rental. Additional amenities include concrete patios, a marina, planned recreation and it is equestrian friendly.

Shangri-La RV Resort, 10498 North Frontage Road, Yuma, Ariz. 85365; (928) 342-9123; info@shangrilarv.com; www.shangrilarv.com.

Texas:

Bay Colony RV Resort is located just 20 minutes outside of Houston and offers 71 full hookup sites with private patios. Amenities include: cable TV hookup, swimming, Internet access, laundry and a pool, and pets are welcome. The resort is also near the ocean, surfing, fishing, golf, shopping and sightseeing opportunities.

Bay Colony RV Resort, 217 FM 517 W, Dickinson, Texas 77539; (866) 442-2978, (281) 614-5252, fax: (281) 614-1999; e-mail: bay_colony@verizon.net.

Amarillo Ranch RV Park has large pull-thru sites, an indoor pool, hot tub and sauna, and is pet friendly. With 64 full hookup sites, 25 offer pull thru access. Amenities include cable TV, Internet access, phone service and complimentary coffee and donuts.

Amarillo Ranch RV Park, 1414 Sunrise Drive, Amarillo, Texas 79104; (806) 373-4962; info@amarillorvranch.com; www.amarillorvranch.com

Have a great winter camping season!