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Discover Inspiration in Louisville North Campground
Located near downtown Louisville, Kentucky, Louisville North Campground is a family-owned campground purchased by Ernest and Barb Ringo in 1987.
It all started when Ernest and Barb decided to take a road trip back to their home state of Indiana after Ernest retired from the Oil industry. While on vacation, they set their sights on their dream job of owning a campground. So, in 1987, they purchased Louisville North Campground, located in Clarksville, Indiana, just over the bridge from Louisville, Kentucky, separated by the Ohio River.
Photo is courtesy of Louisville North Campground.
Growth and Customer Service
Ernest and Barb enlarged the campground to 110 sites, tenting sites, and two cabins over the years. Ernest died in 2009, but Barb, who is now 85 years young, and her daughter Pam still run the campground. Barb comes to work every day to welcome the campers with a joyful greeting and continues to help out in the convenience store and gas station.
Photo is courtesy of Louisville North Campground.
Just a few minutes from downtown Louisville, Kentucky, and with easy access from Interstate 65, the location has given the camping public an ideal base camp to attend the city’s major events, conventions, and a myriad of attractions.
Enjoy a city full of shops, restaurants, and sporting events. Visit Churchill Downs and its Kentucky Derby Museum. Take the kids to the Louisville Science Center, the Louisville Slugger Museum, and the Louisville Zoo.
The Louisville skyline rises near the Ohio River. Photo: Missvain
Find Family Here
Our family campground is looking forward to hosting you soon. You’ll find all the conveniences you need here, including full hookups with Wi-Fi, high-speed internet, and up to 30 channels on the regular antenna at every RV Site. Also, if you need RV service, it is available next door.
Be sure to include Louisville North Campground on your itinerary when visiting Indiana and Kentucky. Book now with louisvillenorthcampground.com so you don’t miss out.
The post Discover Inspiration in Louisville North Campground appeared first on RV.com.
2025-04-19
RV News: Cortes Campers Launches Lightweight Towable, Genesis Reveals Luxury Overlanding Vehicle, and More
There is plenty of RV industry news to get to this week, including new towable from Cortes Campers, RV accessories and tech to get excited about, and much more. So, on that note, lets jump right in to see what’s been happening. Here are the stories to have on your radar:
Photo Credit: Cortes Campers
- Cortes Campers Debuts “World’s Lightest 18-Foot Camper”: If you’re looking for a lightweight towable to pull behind your midsize SUV, Cortes Campers may have covered it. The company has launched its new Cortes 18 Super Light, which it says is the lightest 18′ trailer on the market. The rig comes with a suite of great features, including a Furrion A/C unit, a 12V mini-fridge, Bluetooth speaker sound system, and either a double bed or a king-size mattress depending on the floor plan. The camper comes in several colors and utilizes a custom steel chassis with composite materials to maintain durability, while remaining lightweight. Check it out here.
- The Genesis X Gran Equator Concept Merges Luxury and Overlanding: The New York International Auto Show is taking place this week, with dozens of car manufacturers on hand to show off their latest models. One of those brands is luxury upstart Genesis, which revealed a splashy new concept vehicle meant to merge overlanding with posh handling and amenities. Dubbed the X Gran Equator, the SUV looks slick and features what designers call “athletic elegance,” although it seems to be lacking in actual overlanding features. The interior is spartan but functional, with upscale materials and design elements. Whether or not the concept actually becomes a production model remains to be seen, but it sure is pretty to look at.
Photo Credit: Goal Zero
- BioLite Gobbles Up Goal Zero: The portable power market has gotten crowded and competitive over the past few years, and this week we saw some consolidation. A few days back, BioLite—which is best known for its camping stoves, fire pits, and camp lighting solutions—purchased Goal Zero, the company that started the power station craze more than 15 years ago. The acquisition bolsters BioLite’s own efforts in this space, instantly giving them more visibility and a broader range of products. What it means for both brands’ collective portfolios remains to be seen.
- GearJunkie Reviews Dometic CFX 55IM Powered Cooler: Dometic is one of the biggest players in the powered cooler market, continually pushing the technology and designs of these devices forward. One of its newest models is the CFX 55IM, which not only promises to keep your drinks cold and your food fresh, but also to make ice cubes on the go. The GearJunkie team reviewed the electric cooler this week, giving it high marks for its performance and efficiency, although at $1,199 it is a pricey investment. Read the full review here.
Photo Credit: The Dyrt
- The Dyrt Adds New Feature to Instantly Find Available Campgrounds: Online campground discovery platform The Dyrt has added a new feature to help members find nearby campgrounds. This week, the company launched “Drive Time,” which gives PRO members the ability to search for campsite availability with a specified driving distance from their current location. Naturally, users can filter the results based on interests and book the site they want to stay at in seconds. The feature is live and available now.
- Pandemic RV Buyers Continue to Use Their Vehicles: It’s no secret that the Covid era was a boom time for RV manufacturers, with tens of thousands of people purchasing campers so they could enjoy being anywhere but home. But now that the dust has settled for those buyers, how are they enjoying those pricey pandemic purchases? According to a new study from Go RVing, 67% of them are still using their rigs to go camping, while 50% also say they’re using them for cooking and swimming. Better still, 68% of Covid buyers say they’re planning on purchasing a new RV, with 45% indicating they would do so in the next two years. For further insights, like age, income, and family demographics, read the full report here.
Photo Credit: Battle Born
- Battle Born Launches App for Android Users: iPhone owners have been able to use the Battle Born Mobile App for some time, but now it is finally available for Android users, too. This week, the company launched the software on the Google Play Store, bringing feature parity with the iOS version. The app allows RVers who use Battle Born batteries with Dragonfly Intelligence to monitor their systems remotely and receive alerts when issues occur. Download the app here.
- Gen-Y Hitch Intros New Torsion-Flex Model: In the market for a hitch that can smooth out your ride when towing? You’re in luck, as this week, Gen-Y Hitch introduced an all-new torsion-flex model called the Voyager. According to the brand, this latest addition to its lineup should provide better stability, too, thanks to reduced movement between the cargo carrier and the hitch receiver. Find out more here.
That’s a wrap for another week of RV news. Come back next Friday for the latest updates, insights, and trends.
The post RV News: Cortes Campers Launches Lightweight Towable, Genesis Reveals Luxury Overlanding Vehicle, and More appeared first on RV.com.
2025-04-18
Welcome Aboard: the Keystone Passport Line
Step into a world of limitless possibilities with Passport Ultra-Light travel trailers, where towing confidence, agility, and the thrill of spontaneity reigns supreme. With three distinct product types, the Grand Touring (GT) and Super-Light (SL), and new single-axle Mini models, Passport offers options tailored to your preferences and tow vehicle.
Passport Mini
Exceptionally versatile, Passport Classic’s single-axle RVs deliver incredible quality, style and features designed to give you total confidence for adventures big and small. These small but mighty RVs give you everything you need to hit the road, make memories, and adventure with your loved ones. With monthly payments that may be lower than your cable bill, Passport Classics may be the ticket to the RV lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of.
Passport Super Light
Super Light = Super Fun! If you’re looking for an excuse to become an RV owner, Passport Super Lite travel trailers are it. These models range from around 3,500 to 6,000 pounds, providing towable options for many SUVs and light duty trucks. Passport’s 2025 models feature all-new graphics, a new cap profile that offers more room up front, and new TORFLEX® rubber torsion independent suspension.
Passport Grand Touring
Passport delivers ultra-lightweight camping loaded with multi-functional features and best-in-class storage. Passport premium models features the brand’s most spacious floor plans—including vaulted ceilings. A new front cap profile not only adds more interior room at the front of these models, it’s molded from high-impact resin is lighter and three times more resilient — even in cold temperatures.
Passport has warmed up their signature teak cabinetry with new light countertops, upholstery, and flooring. An accent wall featuring a gold geometric pattern, black appliances and bold origami-inspired door pulls punch up this exciting look.
The post Welcome Aboard: the Keystone Passport Line appeared first on Poulsbo RV.
2025-04-17
Buyer’s Guide: An Office with a View
If you’re lucky enough to have a job that allows you to work from anywhere, these RVs with an office will help you to be productive at the campsite.
Photo Credit: Keystone
Keystone Montana 3941FO
Keystone has a track record for bringing innovative ideas and design elements to its legendary line of Montana fifth-wheels. Nowhere is that more evident than with the 3941FO floor plan, a magnificent setup for RVers who need to get a little—or a lot—of work done while on the road. The rig includes a palatial primary bedroom suite, a spacious kitchen and a living room with two sleeper sofas, power theater seating and a fireplace. Up front, you’ll find a dedicated office space with an L-shaped desk larger than those found in a lot of “real” offices. There’s room for a computer, monitor, printer and all your other tech, with space to spread out all your crucial documents, spreadsheets, secret files, etc. A sliding farm-style door provides privacy for those all-important Zoom calls, while built-in drawers and cabinets add storage. If your career has followed you out on the road, this is at least a nice spot to deal with it. MSRP: $137,153; keystonerv.com
Photo Credit: Fleetwood
Fleetwood Frontier GTX 37RT
This Class A motorhome features a workspace at the rear of the vehicle that includes a small desk, storage cabinets and drawers and a place to mount a computer monitor on the wall. A set of sliding doors adds privacy and seclusion, but with the bedroom and kitchen separating the office from the main living area, it’s easy to take private conference calls without disturbing the rest of the crew. MSRP: $445,951; fleetwoodrv.com
Photo Credit: Airstream
Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Office
Airstream’s Flying Cloud is the rare travel trailer that offers a floor plan with a dedicated office. Located at the rear of the vehicle, the space is cozy but functional and includes a desk, a built-in charging station and storage cabinets and cubbies. For added flexibility, the space can be converted to a sleeping area and even comes with an office chair. As RVs with an office go, this one is especially accommodating. MSRP: $130,500; airstream.com
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Vista 34R
A lot of RVs have dinettes that can serve as a workstation, but Winnebago’s Class A model takes things a step beyond the usual. The king-size
Murphy bed in the main bedroom folds out of the way, revealing a dinette/workspace underneath. This opens up the area, creating a large space that is both productive and collaborative. A sliding door provides easy access to the kitchen and bathroom. MSRP: $224,340; winnebago.com
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-17
Shop Talk: The Jersey Boys of OK4WD
If you are an overlander or offroader, or even just aspire to be one of the above, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of OK4WD of Stewartsville, New Jersey. This formidable shop sits in verdant farm country, but also within two hours of both New York City and Philadelphia; it’s become the premier four-wheel drive outfitter on the East Coast, and arguably in the nation.
Jim Oostdyk, the shop’s founder and guiding force, has been instrumental in shaping the technical culture of American overlanding, bringing in top-end gear from four-wheel-fanatical places like Australia and South Africa. His massive shop and showroom work like a creative prompt to people who want to explore the hinterlands. If you can think it up, the crew here can likely build it.
This was not always the case—Oostdyk started with a two-bay garage and a gas station. The journey from then til now is as interesting as any backcountry route.
Jim Oostdyk surveys the trails of his native New Jersey. (Photo Credit: Lila Barth)
Shop: OK4WD Location: Stewartsville, New Jersey Founded: 1979 Specialty: Off-Road Gear
Q: You grew up on a farm in rural New Jersey. Did that environment help draw you to off-road driving?
A: I started the business as a gas station and repair shop, two weeks out of high school in 1979. I ran out of cash within a month and had to sell my car—a ’66 Mustang. I bought an old Jeep. And four weeks later, I rolled it. As I was fixing it up, I lifted it, put on another body, and dropped in a different motor. Customers at the gas station would see that and say, “Hey, I got an old Jeep. Can you do that to mine?” Things just took off from there.
Q: How long did that take for the gas station to turn into a full-blown 4×4 shop?
A: Within a year, we were cranking. Ford came out with an F-150 with an independent front suspension. Our UPS driver bought one in about the fall of 1980. We lifted it for him, and he took it to the Jersey Shore for Memorial Day. All weekend, people were stopping him, and he handed out a bunch of our cards. People lined up after that, asking us to lift their trucks and put big tires on them.
Q: The whole concept and culture of “overlanding” has transformed since then, especially in recent years. How has that evolution looked from your vantage point?
A: We were kind of into overlanding before anyone called it overlanding. And we always wanted to make 4x4s that fit the customer’s lifestyle. Now that the idea of overlanding has become more popular, that really fits well into our wheelhouse. When things started to head in that direction, I spent a lot of time traveling and finding really good products from South Africa and Europe. We’d bring them back to the U.S. and tweak them for our marketplace.

Q: How did you start your international search for overlanding gear?
A: I started traveling because I didn’t want my kids to be brats. I took them to do charity mission work in places like Mexico, Peru, Haiti and Africa. Every time, I would find that a 4×4 was a total necessity. I would see things on vehicles in other countries that we didn’t have here—like camping gear, air lockers and extra spare tires. I realized that the rest of the world does four-wheel drives differently.
We’d go places to build orphanages or do construction work mainly. They’d have a Jeep or a Toyota pickup that was broken down, and my son and I would fix them. You learn all these things, and then you see the components that make their vehicles stronger. It made our business more innovative. I was finding stuff that we just didn’t see here in the States.
OK4WD employee Jeremy Dittmar, on duty (Photo Credit: Lila Barth)
Q: What do you think spurred Americans to become more interested in off-road travel and exploration?
A: What really got it going here was gear coming from Australia. With the help of a customer, we actually installed the first ARB Air Locker in the US. That guy went on to start ARB USA., and we became one of the first, if not the first, ARB dealers in the country. Overland Journal came out, which then led to a show.
Q: Where do you draw inspiration for your builds?
A: Inspiration comes from seeing people get outside. We’ve had couples who met and got married because of events or trails we’ve told them about. We’ve seen a lot of friendships being built, too. The community is just so inspirational in all aspects. The camping aspect of it, too, is just so good. When you camp, it’s good for your soul. The inspiration really comes from giving people a piece of equipment that makes their lives more enjoyable.
Q: Do customers ever show you something you haven’t seen before—something that surprises you?
A: We’ll build a camper out, and then a customer will finish the interior and bring it back in. We’ll ask if we can incorporate some of their ideas into our work. And that’s the beauty of campers. It’s kind of like a blank slate. It’s amazing to see what people come up with.
Q: Are there any dream builds, or maybe even dream trips, that you want to do?
A: My life’s not going to be long enough for me to get everywhere I want to go, but I’m very, very blessed with where I’ve been able to go. For vehicles, we have a new Ineos Grenadier, which kind of blows my mind. We cut the roof off and put an AluCab pop-top on it. I think it’s the coolest thing I’ve seen in many years—if not my whole career.
The first OK4WD catalog from 1985 with photos of the original gas station. location. (Photo Credit: Lila Barth)
Head for the Hills
1. The OK4WD website provides plenty of project-documentation eye candy for the would-be adventurer. A 2021 Ram 3500 Tradesman transformed via the installation of an OEV Alpine flat-bed camper, kitted out with Maxtrax recovery boards, an Alu-Cab shadow awning and a robust suite of rugged vehicular upgrades
2. The shop puts a strong focus on the most basic and essential component of off-road exploration: tires. Its selection of BFGoodrich, Nitto and Michelin models runs deep, and the technician team specializes in vehicle fit, install and maintenance support.
3. The shop’s build-out of a 2024 Ineos Grenadier does full justice to the new cult-favorite exploration vehicle. The team implemented the Alu-Cab Silenus rooftop tent conversion, specially designed for the Grenadier.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-16
How to Plan an Epic Road Trip on a Budget
Summer’s coming — and the road is calling…
Road trips are magical. You can gaze in awe at incredible landscapes as you travel the countryside, wander off the beaten path to explore fun roadside attractions, or have an impromptu swim at a local beach before hitting the road again.
I enjoy the simple moments of bliss. Things like staring at majestic blue mountains as I take a moment to stretch my legs at a roadside rest area.
As a person who adores traveling regularly, I know that that taking an affordable road trip is 100% possible and that even a ‘cheap’ road trip can be a blast.
Not sure how to plan a budget road trip? I have many affordable road trip tips to share so you can have the vacation of a lifetime without breaking the bank.
Choose RV Travel
I highly recommend RV travel for affordable road trips. Choosing to travel in an RV helps my family save money in a variety of ways.
- Cheap and free campsites cut lodging costs.
- The ability to cook in the RV saves on meal costs.
- Pit stops will be cheaper when snacks are available in the RV and don’t need to be purchased from the gas station.
Besides saving money, RV travel offers other fantastic benefits.
- You don’t need to pack and unpack at every place you stop.
- You can sleep in the same bed every night.
- A clean toilet follows you wherever you go.
- Rest stops are better when you have a couch and bed in tow.
Image source: Getty Images
Save Money on Fuel
The one downside to taking an RV on a road trip? Campers can be gas guzzlers. Whether you choose to tow a trailer or drive a motorhome, you are going to have to budget a healthy amount for fuel. Fortunately, there are ways to save on fuel and keep the gas budget minimal.
Find Cheap Fuel
GasBuddy is an incredible tool for saving money on gas. I’m always astonished when I see just how much gas prices can vary in one town, and when you’re on the highway, they can fluctuate even more. GasBuddy helps you get the cheapest gas along your route by showing you gas prices in advance.
Note: Google Maps has a feature that does something similar. We use it sometimes but have found it isn’t always as accurate as GasBuddy’s crowdsourced data, so if you really need to save, make sure to cross-check.
Double Up on Rewards
Fuel rewards programs save you a bundle on the road. One of the best options is a Good Sam membership, which gets you 5¢ off per gallon of gas and 10¢ off per gallon of diesel at Pilot and Flying J gas stations.
There are many other fuel rewards programs, such as grocery store gas rewards, that can help you save even more. Combine several programs to reduce road trip fuel expenses significantly.
Drive Smarter
Of course, it also helps to use as little fuel as possible.
- You can help reduce fuel usage by holding a steady, reasonable speed.
- Avoid sudden, hard braking. Instead, let off the gas and come to a slow stop.
- Make sure to keep tires properly inflated, as this can help reduce fuel usage.
- Share your trip with friends! We love making new friends at campgrounds and sharing day trips with them.
Image source: Getty Images
Have a Plan for RV Repairs
RVing is fun, until it isn’t.
Breakdowns are stressful, and they’re even more nerve-wracking if you don’t have a plan to address them. That’s why a reliable roadside assistance plan is a necessary ingredient for affordable road trips. These cost-effective plans cover the costs of towing and other services that would otherwise bust a budget.
Good Sam’s RV ProCare Suite takes this a step further by offering phone-based tech support and mobile service techs to help you troubleshoot at your campsite or on the road.
Save Money on Lodging
I love finding a good deal on a campsite. There’s just something so thrilling about saving money on lodging, and the fact that it means I can travel more often is a major bonus.
Give Boondocking a Try
Boondocking (aka dry camping) is typically done out in the boonies (hence the name).
Boondocking on public land that the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) or Forest Service manages is almost always 100% free, making it a budget-friendly option.

To make a good thing even better, you might even snag a spot in a beautiful, pine-scented forest or a desert campsite featuring incredible orange and pink sunsets.
It’s important that you properly prepare for boondocking. You will need to have full batteries and a solar setup or a generator to recharge those batteries.
You’ll also need a full freshwater tank and a way to dump your waste tanks at the end of your trip.
Good Sam members can dump for free at Camping World locations nationwide. If a Camping World is not nearby, Good Sam members can head to Pilot or Flying J for $5 off the dump fee.
Find Free (and Cheap) Campsites
Not sure boondocking is for you? There are also plenty of super low-cost and even free (!) established campgrounds out there that might be a better fit.
Cities, counties, the Forest Service, the BLM, or the Army Corps of Engineers often run free or cheap campgrounds.
We find these free and super-inexpensive campsites by looking at sites such as…
Many of these sites allow you to filter by price, making it easy to find the best options for your affordable road trip.
Snag a Camping Membership
We’ve had a number of camping memberships over the years, and in that time, they have saved us thousands of dollars.
One of the best camping memberships is Good Sam’s campground discount network. Membership will save you 10% on nightly rates at 2,000+ campgrounds nationwide.
We love this membership because there are so many campgrounds to choose from and because it includes special discounts beyond the campground discounts. For example, we love Camping World discounts like the 5% back in points on certain purchases and members-only specials.
Other camping memberships that have helped us save include:
Image source: Unsplash
Eat for Less
Eating out is expensive. That’s why affordable road trippers make use of RV kitchens and find ways to cut restaurant costs.
Here are some other ways to save money on food:
Plan Your Meals
I am much more likely to cook in the RV if I have a plan for each meal. For this reason, it is a good idea to make a meal plan and gather the ingredients needed before you leave home.
We also use the following tips to make cooking in the RV a bit easier.
- Plan recipes ahead of your trip and pack the necessary cookware.
- Prep meals before you leave home.
- Use a slow cooker to cook meals while you’re out adventuring.
- Use a pressure cooker to save time.
- Grill out to avoid heating the RV on hot days and enjoy the scenery.
Pack a Lunch
Packing lunch when you go on adventures is also extremely helpful. We always keep bread, peanut butter, and some lunch meat on hand for grab-and-go meals.
If your family doesn’t want to eat sandwiches every day of your trip, consider mixing it up with soup in a thermos or cold leftovers (e.g. pizza or fried chicken), etc.
Look for Special Deals
Cooking in your RV is perfect for affordable road trips. That said, sometimes we like to splurge and try a local restaurant. In these cases, we still look for ways to save.
Some of the best ways to make eating out more budget-friendly include:
- “Kids eat free” deals
- “Happy hour” deals
- Groupon deals
- Splitting meals
- Skipping the soft drinks
Image source: Getty Images
Find Free & Low-Cost Activities
As an RVer, one of my favorite things to do is find ways to have low-cost fun wherever we roam. Doing this allows us to take some pretty incredible budget road trips that really don’t feel cheap at all. In fact, many of our most memorable travel moments didn’t cost a dime.
Look for Free Fun
- Most cities have some free museums and historic sites.
- Local festivals and events are often free.
- Hiking, climbing, bicycling, and swimming in rivers, lakes, and swimming holes are fun and free activities.
You can start your search for these options with a simple Google search. Local coffee shops and libraries post information about community events. Sites like AllTrails are also helpful when searching for local hiking trails.
Invest in a Membership or Pass
We love, love, love our reciprocal memberships. These are memberships to a single museum, zoo, or amusement park that actually grant us admission to other similar attractions across the country.
In our family, these passes are regularly used to explore local attractions without spending a dime.
Some of the best ones include:
Schedule Around Free Days
Of course, free admission days are also helpful. Many museums and zoos nationwide offer free admission days once a month or once a week.
National Parks also have free admission days throughout the year. Find out when these days are and plan your visit around them.
Yes, the attractions will be more crowded on free days, but you’ll be able to check out a spot you may not otherwise have seen on an affordable road trip.
Final thoughts
Just because it’s a ‘budget road trip’ doesn’t mean you can’t have an amazing time. Whether you choose to hike the mountains and enjoy some of the best views in the country or relax on a white sand beach as the waves lull you to sleep, you’re sure to enjoy whatever affordable road trip you plan this season.
Start planning now so you can make sure you find hidden gems and wallet-friendly stops!
The post How to Plan an Epic Road Trip on a Budget appeared first on RV.com.
2025-04-16
Pala Casino RV Resort: SoCal’s Luxury Getaway
Boasting a perfect 10/10*/10 Good Sam rating, Pala Casino RV Resort in SoCal offers guests plenty of opportunities to enjoy sun and fun in a northern San Diego County getaway. The resort is tucked away in the scenic Palomar Mountains and offers a long menu of fun activities against a picturesque backdrop.
Hosting a casino, nine restaurants, and regular live performances, Pala Casino RV Resort gives guests plenty of reasons to stay put on the property. But the surrounding area bustles with attractions, from vineyards that open their doors for tasting to an adrenaline-pumping race track. See stars at the Palomar Observatory or catch a balloon ride over rugged terrain.
Photo courtesy of Pala Casino RV Resort.
Resort Amenities
In the 10-acre RV resort, travelers can stay in one of the 100 roomy sites, each with full hookups. Every location has a picnic table, a secluded lawn, and free Wi-Fi. Choose from 77 back-in sites measuring 30×55 feet or 17 luxury pull-through sites measuring 30×72 feet. Additionally, there are six luxurious 30 x 60-foot sites available for reservation, each with a dedicated barbeque grill.
Play horseshoes and table tennis with other campers, or light up the BBQ in one of their two barbeque areas. Take a dip in one of the two spas or unwind in the heated pool. In addition, there are two restroom/shower spaces, three flat-screen TVs, a pool table, card tables, and 24-hour laundry. The fenced-in dog park even has a dedicated resort for your four-legged companions.
Photo courtesy of Pala Casino RV Resort.
For Club activities and special events, the RV Resort Clubhouse, which has two full-sized kitchens, can be reserved. A large assortment of wine, beer, beverages, tobacco items, snacks, and fresh fruit are available at the handy Mini-Mart. Additionally, the Pala gas station offers all grades of gasoline, including propane and diesel, for when it’s time to fill up.
Casino and Cuisine
To fully savor the Pala experience, take a quick trip on their free shuttle — which runs around the clock — to the Pala Casino Spa & Resort. The resort’s four-diamond grandeur, Vegas-style gaming, and top-notch cuisine have cemented its position as Northern San Diego’s top gambling and entertainment destination.
At Pala Casino RV Resort, guests are immediately engulfed in the excitement of around-the-clock gaming as soon as they walk through the main doors. Try your luck at over 2,000 slot and video machines, or pick from 80 table games.
Explore new food experiences with the nine restaurants in Pala Casino. Enjoy authentic Asian Cuisine freshly prepared at Noodles. Savor steak paired with mountain views at Bar Meets Grill. Or dine close to the water at Poolside Café & Bar. If you need a quick refreshment, visit Grab & Go, casual dining that’s sure to hit the spot.
Rocking and Relaxing
Compared to other casinos in Southern California, Pala has more live entertainment for fans of high-energy performances. Dance to local bands at the Events Center (indoors) or rock out to well-known artists at the Starlight Theater under the gorgeous California sky.
Photo courtesy of Pala Casino RV Resort.
With wonderful outdoor activities, breathtaking vistas, and fun for the whole family or couples, the Pala RV Resort has the whole package. It’s a place that blends the excitement and grandeur of a four-diamond resort with the finest of RV travel.
Visit the Pala Casino RV Resort in Northern San Diego County right now. You’ll find a fantastic RV vacation spot that is only a short distance from a very lovely location.
Surrounding Fun
A short distance from Pala Casino, several surrounding attractions entice guests.
Wine Tasting: The nearby Temecula area is home to over 40 wineries scattered over rolling hills. Both oenophiles and casual aficionados can engage in a wide variety of wine-related activities, from a boutique wine-tasting experience to tours of various properties. Old Town Temecula’s tasting rooms and wine bars provide a fine initiation to the region’s top vineyards, including Leoness Cellars, which offers gorgeous views from its hilltop location and tastings of award-winning Cabernet.
Fox Raceway: Considered Southern California’s No. 1 Motocross facility, this Pala track has three uniquely designed tracks to thrill spectators and challenge riders.
Pala Shooting Range: Eager to hone your marksmanship? The Pala Shooting Range has a pistol range along with a rifle range for targets as far as 900 yards away.
Palomar Observatory: Located at the top of Palomar Mountain, this popular attraction is home to the famous 200-inch (5.1-meter) Hale Telescope—for decades, the largest effective telescope in operation. Peruse exhibits and learn about the marvels in our solar system and galaxy.
Hot Air Ballooning: A sunrise or sunset hot-air balloon ride is a magical way to experience the region’s beautiful vineyards, undulating hills and rugged mountains, and citrus and olive groves. California Dreamin’ serves this indulgence with a European-style champagne breakfast and wine-tasting packages in the Vindemia Winery’s serene rose garden.
The post Pala Casino RV Resort: SoCal’s Luxury Getaway appeared first on RV.com.
2025-04-16
Road Icon: Join the Airstream Argosy Club
In March 1972, when the first Airstream Argosy rolled out of the company’s newly opened manufacturing plant in Versailles, Ohio, it marked a pivot for the venerable brand—one not entirely welcomed by Airstream enthusiasts. Until that point, the iconic company had almost exclusively produced high-end, shiny aluminum trailers that turned heads on the highway. That shine—that distinction, that head-turning quality—was something of a status symbol.
But while the Argosy was designed much like the standard Airstream, it didn’t have the shine. It was painted white. The sidewalls were still aluminum, but they were occasionally made from damaged panels, and the trailer’s end-caps were made from plastic and steel. By painting the trailer, the company concealed blemishes and cheaper material.
Photo Credit: Airstream
“It was a recycling method,” explains Dan Maul, the visitor experience coordinator at the Airstream Heritage Center in Jackson Center, Ohio. “We wanted to take the aerodynamic design and other cues from the Airstream and create a less-expensive travel trailer.”
The Argosy was also a way for Airstream to experiment and reach new customers amidst the 1970s economic malaise. Depending on the model, Argosy trailers could be had for a few thousand dollars less than their pure-bred counterparts; they featured concepts like wraparound windows, narrower widths on some trailers, a rear bedroom and composite aluminum flooring.
In certain eyes, it was a great success. Maul estimates a few thousand Argosy trailers sold during an initial eight-year run, and the ability to test new features helped Airstream launch into the motorhome space, too. But some Airstream owners refused to accept Argosy owners as their brethren. For decades, the Airstream Club International (which is independently run by enthusiasts) refused to let Argosy owners join up or attend events.
Photo Credit: Airstream
Due to the same economic conditions that spawned the Argosy in the first place, the Versailles plant was closed in the late ’70s. Airstream was acquired by THOR Industries and the Argosy line went out of production (though the name reemerged briefly as a fifth wheel concept). In 1991, club members finally relented, and Argosy trailers—steadily becoming classics—were welcomed at rallies.
“There are still a few members out there who remember the days when the Argosy was not permitted,” lifetime club member Kevin Allen wrote in an Airstream forum. “Fortunately, this group is a small minority.”
Today, Maul says, the Airstream Argosy is growing in popularity—not only because it’s a vintage unit, but because white panels allow owners to customize the exterior. “A lot of the hype came after the fact,” he says. “These days we celebrate all the models. It is part of our family now.”
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-15
The Ride: The Tiffin Phaeton is Outstanding in its Field
When Bob Tiffin purchased a defunct RV manufacturer in 1972, he set out to build the best motor coaches ever to hit the road. And with a commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, many would say he succeeded. Tiffin Motorhomes became a pillar of the RV industry, but even Bob probably couldn’t have predicted the vehicles his company produces today.
Consider the 2025 Class A Tiffin Phaeton, which combines cutting-edge technology, high-end materials, and excellent build quality to create a luxurious driving and living experience. The Phaeton sits on a Freightliner PowerGlide XC chassis and is powered by a Cummins L9 450HP engine. Paired with a six-speed Allison transmission, the motorhome promises smooth acceleration and precision control on highway and backcountry roads alike. Plus, with 1,250 lb-ft of torque, it can tow a dinghy vehicle with ease.
Photo Credit: Tiffin
The Phaeton comes in four floor plans, ranging in length from 37 feet 9 inches to 45 feet. The coach can comfortably sleep two to eight people depending on the configuration, and all but the smallest model comes with a second bathroom. Every rig ships with ample seating, including a dinette and a couch that converts to a bed. Optional theater seating is available, too.
“With its size and sleeping capacity, this is a great option for retired couples and larger families who will love the multiple baths and optional front drop-down bunk,” says Emily Chatterson, product manager for Tiffin’s Class A line. “Regardless of the model, the Phaeton has a ton of storage.”
Photo Credit: Tiffin
Other amenities include an integrated central vacuum system, panoramic galley windows, a 25-cubic-foot residential refrigerator, ceiling fans and porcelain bathroom sinks. A mounted smart TV descends into a hidden compartment when not in use. Optional upgrades run to a dishwasher, a stacked washer and dryer and heated tile floors, giving the Tiffin Phaeton even more touches of class.
All told, Bob’s vision is on a roll.
Dimensions
GVWR: 39,660 – 45,660 Overall Length: 37′ 9″ – 45′ Exterior Height: 13′ 3″
Image Courtesy of Dee Duncan
1. Three 15,000-BTU air conditioners keep the interior comfortable in hot conditions.
2. WIth 232 cubic feet of basement storage, there’s plenty of room for gear.
3. A 450-HP Cummins diesel engine with 1,250 lb-ft of torque ensures smooth acceleration and towing power.
4. An onboard 10-kilowatt Onan quiet diesel generator provides off-grid power.
5. Keyless entry grants easy access to the interior of the coach.
6. A powered patio awning with LED lighting offers shade while enjoying the outdoor TV.
7. An integrated tire-pressure monitoring system alerts the driver when levels are too low.
8. Tiffin offers Starlink satellite internet service as a factory-installed optional add-on.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-04-14
Plan Now for Top RV Tailgating at SEC Football Games
Ranking the efforts of the college football teams in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) is pretty cut and dried — wins, losses, sacks, completions, penalties.
But ranking the best tailgate parties in the SEC? That’s a subject fraught with danger. Each school’s fans think their school is No. 1 in pre- and post-game parties. But thankfully, with the internet at hand, there are surveys (surprise!) and survey results.
Missouri Tigers take to the field. Photo: Spatms
Now, football season might seem far away, but die-hard fans of SEC teams are already making reservations for camping near their favorite football stadiums. So, if you want to experience true football mania — with a hearty dose of school spirit thrown in — then check out the 2025 SEC football schedule and find out when your team is playing, and make travel plans accordingly (see list of nearby RV parks below).
Here are some highlights:
Rebels and Tigers and Tide
With apologies to my alma mater — and all fans of the Mizzou Tigers (University of Missouri) — you’re in the running, but those other Tigers from LSU (Louisiana State University) seem to be coming out on top in most surveys. With recipes involving Jambalaya, crawfish, alligator, and frog, the food from the bayou gets broiled, boiled, fried, and served Cajun style in the vast Tiger Stadium parking lot in Baton Rouge. And while the food is cooking, the beverages are poured, and fans are donning body paint and LSU gear and visiting their live Bengal tiger mascot.
Ole Miss fans gather at the Grove. Photo: Srgragg
But running a close second — and No. 1 in some polls — are the Ole Miss Rebels fans, who gather in The Grove, a 10-acre expanse right in the middle of campus in the aptly named town of University. The dress is a little more upscale but it’s all about the party — really many, many parties rolled into one. The festivities sometimes start on Friday evening and don’t wind down until Sunday morning.
Some polls say the Crimson Tide fans of the University of Alabama roll out the third-best tailgate party at Bryant–Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, and others pick the Volunteers of Tennessee, who party down at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, within walking distance of the University of Tennessee.
Florida Gator fans party before a big game. Photo: Cracklow’s Faux Toes
Bulldogs and Gators Go at It
Is the University Georgia Number 4 or is the University of Florida? Again, everyone seems to agree the Bulldogs, playing in Sanford Stadium in Athens, and the Gators, playing in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, know how to have fun before watching their team take to the gridiron.
Other schools seemingly always in the mix of highly-rated tailgating scenes are (in no-particular order): the South Carolina Gamecocks, Texas A&M Aggies, Arkansas Razorbacks, Missouri Tigers, Auburn Tigers, Mississippi State Bulldogs, Vanderbilt Commodores, and the Kentucky Wildcats.
Jambalaya is served up at many SEC tailgating parties. Photo: Jason Lam
But, surveys aside, it’s likely that the best SEC Tailgate party is the one you’re attending!
Many of the schools have RV-friendly parking lots on gameday. But the following RV parks welcome their fans for game weekends. Again, be sure to reserve early as avid fans book well in advance to secure a spot for both home and away games.
The following RV parks are located close to top SEC football stadiums.
Alabama
Kountry Air RV Park, Prattville
Lake Eufaula Campground, Eufaula
Quail Creek RV Resort, Hartselle
Two Lakes RV Resort, Gulf Shores
Wales West RV Resort & Light Railway, Fairhope
Windemere Cove RV Resort, Langston
Arkansas
Rustic Ridge, Gentry
Louisiana
Blue Heron RV Park, Iowa
Coushatta Luxury RV Resort at Red Shoes Park, Kinder
KOC Kampground, New Iberia
River View RV Park and Resort, Vidalia
Twelve Oaks RV Park, Lake Charles
Missouri
Osage Beach RV Park, Osage Beach
Owl Creek Market & RV Park , Odessa
Mississippi
Campground at Bames Crossing, Tupelo
Wendy Oaks RV Resort, Florence
Tennessee
Sun Outdoors Pigeon Forge, Sevierville

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2025-04-13
How to Stay Safe During a Roadside Breakdown
How to Stay Safe in a Roadside Breakdown: 10 Essential Steps
A roadside breakdown can happen to anyone—whether you’re commuting, roadtripping, or just running errands. It can happen when driving a car, towing a camper, or maneuvering a motorhome.
Knowing how to stay safe during a vehicle or RV breakdown is important for protecting yourself, your passengers, and other drivers.
These 10 key steps will help you stay safe and get the help you need during a roadside breakdown:
1. Calmly Assess the Situation
As soon as you notice signs of a breakdown (strange noises, dashboard warning lights, loss of power), stay calm. Don’t panic or make sudden moves.
Keep your hands on the wheel and begin scanning your surroundings for a safe spot to pull over.
Tire blowouts can be especially scary. When tire issues arise, it’s even more important to follow the guidance above to calmly get off the road.
Image Source: Getty Images
2. Move to a Safe Location
Exit the road if possible—ideally to a wide shoulder, emergency lane, rest stop, or nearby parking lot.
If you’re on a highway or interstate, try to pull over to the right side, as it’s always safer than the left.

Do your best to avoid blind curves, bridges, or narrow shoulders.

If you’re unable to get to your stopping location of choice, get your vehicle to the safest location you can. Then, call your roadside assistance provider and the proper authorities for guidance before exiting your vehicle.

Image Source: Getty Images
3. Turn On Hazard Lights Immediately
Once safely stopped, turn on your hazard lights (AKA emergency flashers) to alert other drivers.
Most states have laws that require passing drivers to slow down or move over for vehicles on the side of the road. Hazard lights help announce your presence so approaching drivers have time to create a buffer zone.
Image Source: Getty Images
4. Use Roadside Warning Devices
Assuming you’ve stopped in a safe place, it may be necessary to place extra caution signs for other motorists. This is especially important at night or in inclement weather.
Place reflective triangles or LED flares at least 10–15 feet behind your vehicle to increase visibility.
5. Stay Inside the Vehicle (If Safe)
As a general rule, the safest option during a roadside breakdown is to stay in your vehicle with the seatbelt fastened and wait for roadside assistance and/or the authorities to arrive.
There are major exceptions to this. If there’s smoke, fire, or other seemingly dangerous situations coming from your vehicle, you should find a safe way to exit your car or RV as quickly as possible.
If you feel your vehicle is stopped in an unsafe spot, call the authorities immediately and follow their guidance.
Always be aware that exiting your vehicle near fast-moving traffic can be extremely risky. That’s why it’s best to avoid the situation whenever possible by calling in professional help.
Image Source: Getty Images
6. Call for Roadside Assistance or Emergency Services
If you feel unsafe during a breakdown, you should first dial 911 and follow their recommendations.
Once you feel safe, roadside assistance programs are the most cost-effective way to get help for breakdowns. They offer services like fluid delivery (e.g. gas), jump starts, lock out services, tire delivery and replacement, towing services, and more.
Towing services can be quite expensive if you have to pay for them on your own. This is especially true for RVing.

If you’re towing a trailer and your truck breaks down, you would need to have both vehicles towed.

Motorhomes, in particular, require specialized tow trucks that cost a fortune to hire without the right roadside coverage.

Choose an RV-friendly roadside assistance plan for covered towing no matter your setup. Save their number to your phone and keep your plan info in your glove box so you don’t lose time searching.
7. Keep Doors Locked and Windows Partially Closed
If you’re stranded alone or in an unfamiliar area, lock your doors and crack open your windows just enough for ventilation (if needed).
Try to avoid accepting help from strangers and wait for your roadside assistance crew or other authorities to arrive.
8. Share your location with loved ones
Roadside assistance programs will first ask you if you’re safe, and they’ll then ask you where you are so they can track help getting to you.
Add an extra layer of protection by using apps like Google Maps, Apple Find My, or Glympse to send your exact location to a friend or family member.
Image Source: Getty Images
9. Be Prepared with an Emergency Kit
Every vehicle should be stocked with a basic roadside emergency kit that includes:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight and batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Reflective triangle/flares
- Bottled water and snacks
- Blanket or emergency poncho
- Multi-tool or wrench
10. Wait Patiently and Monitor the Situation
While waiting for help to arrive, stay alert and monitor traffic around you. If the breakdown happens at night, keep interior lights on if it is safe to do so and conserve your phone battery.
Don’t attempt DIY repairs, especially on large RV and trailer tires. Roadside assistance providers are available 24/7. They offer an affordable and safe way to get help during a breakdown.
FAQs for Roadside Breakdown Safety

Get answers to the most common questions asked during a roadside breakdown.

What should I do first when my car breaks down?
Turn on your hazard lights and safely pull over to the side of the road or to another secure location. Once stopped, stay calm and assess the situation before calling for help.
Who do I call if my car breaks down?
Call roadside assistance if you’re a member. If you’re in danger of blocking traffic, call 911 immediately.
Is it safe to get out of my car or RV on the highway?
Only get out if it’s absolutely necessary and safe to do so. High-speed traffic can be deadly. If you’re on a busy road, it’s usually safer to stay inside with your seatbelt on and wait for help.
How can I share my location with friends and family?
Use your phone’s GPS features:
- Google Maps: Tap the blue location dot > “Share your location”
- Apple Find My: Use the “Share My Location” option
- WhatsApp/Signal: Use the location pin in chat
Should I accept help from strangers?
Use caution. Politely decline and tell them help is already on the way. Stay in your car with the doors locked unless you’re 100% sure it’s safe.
Can I fix a roadside breakdown myself?
As a general rule, it’s best to call roadside assistance and wait for them to arrive. If you believe the breakdown is dangerous to your or others, call 911 immediately.
Photo source: Jenna Kahn
Final Thoughts
A vehicle or RV breakdown can be nerve-wracking, but following the roadside safety tips above can prevent accidents, injuries, or worse. Always prioritize visibility, communication, and caution when stranded on the road. Whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery, or engine failure, preparation and calm action are your best defense.
The best preventative medicine for breakdown stress is a reliable roadside assistance plan. These plans are affordable and offer professional help to get you safely on your way.

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2025-04-12
Virginia Good Sam Road Trip: Awe-Inspiring Atlantic Sights
A land of stunning sunrises and salty oysters, coastal Virginia is the kind of destination that could have been ripped from the pages of a luxury travel magazine, minus the fuss. Here, the weathered beach shacks and fishing trawlers aren’t just for show – they result from generations of coastal living and everything that comes with it. That means impressive seafood, unique history, and the kinds of outdoor experiences that can transform your trip from the enjoyable into the truly extraordinary. As they say in the Old Dominion, you can’t spell vacation without VA.
Click on the numbered icons to take a trip through the Old Dominion.
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2025-04-12