Buckle up — Yellowstone National Park is the ultimate destination for encountering some of America’s most iconic wonders. If you’re short on time but big on adventure, the freedom and flexibility of an RV expedition allow you to explore the best of Yellowstone at your own pace. This one-day itinerary will help you pack in as much sightseeing as possible between sunrise and sunset.
Hit the (Beartooth) Highway
Start your day early by driving the scenic Chief Joseph and Beartooth Highways, the perfect scenic route for RV travelers. The winding roads offer stunning look-offs, ideal for quick roadside stops or photo ops. Beartooth Highway provides incredible views of Beartooth Mountain and Pilot Peak, making the journey to Yellowstone almost as breathtaking as the destination. You’ll enter the park via the Northeast Gate, ready to explore.
Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone.
Watch Wildlife in the Lamar Valley
Your first stop in Yellowstone National Park is the Lamar Valley, affectionately known as the American Serengeti. This nickname is a testament to the abundance of wildlife that call the valley home. This is a prime destination for wildlife watchers, with plenty of spots to pull over and observe safely. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot bears, pronghorns, eagles, bison, and even wolves roaming the open plains.
Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone.
Visit Mammoth Hot Springs
Not far from the Lamar Valley, you’ll arrive in a landscape that looks out of this world. This sprawling complex of terraces was formed over thousands of years as hot water, rich in minerals, seeped to the surface. As the water cooled, it deposited calcium carbonate, creating the distinctive formations we see today. Take some time to stretch your legs on the boardwalks and marvel at this ever-evolving landscape.
A boardwalk leads to views of the Grand Prismatic Spring. Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone.
Go South to the Grand Prismatic Spring
Drive south from Mammoth past rivers, waterfalls, wildlife, and wondrous terrain before reaching the Grand Prismatic Spring. This chromatic wonder, boasting vibrant rings of deep blue, emerald green, shimmering gold, and fiery orange, is a highlight of any Yellowstone RV trip. While the boardwalk offers an up-close view, consider taking the short hike to Fairy Falls Trail for a panoramic perspective.
Photo Courtesy of Cody Yellowstone.
Watch Old Faithful Erupt
Not far from Grand Prismatic Spring is the iconic Old Faithful geyser. Its predictable eruptions, shooting towering water columns into the sky, have captivated visitors for generations. Old Faithful typically erupts every 90 minutes, but the interval can range from 35 minutes to two hours. Traveling by RV means you can easily adjust your schedule to catch this spectacular show, arriving at your convenience before cruising to your final stop.
Artist Point in Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon. Photo Ben Wilkins.
Take in the Grand Canyon From Artist’s Point
Cap off your epic RV journey at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, your final destination for the day. As the sun begins to set, witness the canyon’s vibrant palette transform from deep reds to golden yellows. Pull out your camp chairs and enjoy a picturesque picnic dinner at Artist Point, where the views have inspired creative people for countless years.
Inspired to hit the road and discover Yellowstone’s natural grandeur? Start planning your RV expedition today. Request your free 2024 Cody Yellowstone Vacation Guide, visit CodyYellowstone.org, or call 800-393-CODY today.
Call them “Class B,” or call the whole thing “Van Life.” By any name, the coolest camper vans can take you places. Discover the brands, models, gear, and history that turned the humble camper van into a modern adventure machine.
Photo Credit: Different_Brian/Getty
The Van’s Long Trip
When and where did it begin, this dream of a van cruising the American road, well-equipped, beautifully designed and bound for parts unknown? What ignited the 21st century social media explosion of exquisite sunset photos framed by rear cargo doors, all those pics of pandemic puppies doing downward dog in the snow? How did a tricked-out Sprinter become a campground status symbol?
You could argue today’s van-living vogue goes all the way back to the wagon trains. Certainly, today’s four-wheeled dreams wouldn’t be possible without the Interstates, seeded by legislation in 1956, and the Volkswagen Westfalia, introduced to the U.S. that very same year. America’s national parks and highway system set the backdrop for van culture. “If we look at this constant undercurrent of westward recreation,” says automotive historian Casey Maxton, “that is what we consider the real starting point for van life.”
The vehicles have improved in a steady parade. In the ‘60s, Ford unveiled its T-Series, a precursor to the ultra-capable Transit. Mercedes debuted the earliest Sprinter exactly 30 years ago. Other flagship vehicles—the Mitsubishi Delica, Dodge A-100, Chevy G20, the Ford Econoline—broadened the scope of what a van could do.
But the van’s cultural niche evolved as well, in ways perhaps less predictable. Early on, a freewheeling breed of travelers and outdoors folk gravitated to vehicles that could double as a base camp; travel icons on both sides of the Atlantic appropriated these work vehicles to build lives on the road. In 1968, Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard, along with the late Doug Tompkins of The North Face, drove a beefy Econoline from California to Chile on a six-month climbing expedition. In 1974, Tony and Maureen Wheeler, founders of Lonely Planet, navigated 9,000 miles from England to Afghanistan in a used Morris Minivan.
Photo Credit: Mason Trinca
“By the ‘70s, we saw the van customization craze take hold, with murals, bubble windows and shag carpeting,” Maxon says. “That brought more people in—and American automakers also began to respond by partnering with external customizers to offer lift kits,
making vans into something you could live in.”
This possibility stirred some mixed perceptions. In 1993, Saturday Night Live star Chris Farley’s character Matt Foley used van life as more of a punchline than an aspiration: the immortal “I LIVE IN A VAN DOWN BY THE RIVER!” But by the turn of the 21st century, this mode of living was poised for a cultural makeover. Social media would beckon, and before long a new generation would inject fresh life into an American tradition.
Working as a designer in New York City in the aughts, Foster Huntington heard the highway’s call. So, in 2011 at age 23, he bought a Vanagon Syncro and headed for the West Coast. “I was not cut out for the urban, corporate lifestyle,” Huntington says. “That was not going to be the next fifty years of my life.”
Huntington made his move at a fortuitous time. Instagram had just launched. The iPhone was four years old, and anyone armed with a smartphone could find an audience—and dollars—online. YouTube was awash in content from travelers not just highlighting their adventures, but also tutorials for how to customize vans for maximum comfort. Influencer culture was beginning to percolate, and Huntington, who spent his days surfing and shooting photos, leaned in. He used Kickstarter to fund a photo book titled Home Is Where You Park It before fatefully coining the hashtag “vanlife” (#vanlife). The term and tag became a bona fide phenomenon.
“I meant it as a joke,” says Huntington, who has since settled outside of Portland, Oregon, and now favors a Ford F-350. “Tupac had thug life, and I was like: ‘We have van life.’”
Joke or not, Huntington’s term captured something of the times—maybe even an elemental thread of Americana. Living in Seattle working at Microsoft, Harley Sitner was chasing the counterculture vibe of his rambling youth when he bought a vintage Volkswagen camper van. With that purchase he also inherited the issues accrued by its previous owner. Struggling to find a reliable mechanic, in 2013 Sitner bought an old VW garage called Peace Vans. Today his crew is swimming in repair and restoration work, as well as electric conversions, and customization not just of VW Vanagons, but also Mercedes Sprinters, assorted Class B and smaller RVs.
“There’s just something in American life about road trips,” Sitner reflects. “And van life is just another version that connects us to the founding myths of Manifest Destiny and westward expansion. A big part of it is also the expression of rugged individualism.”
Even so, since the start of the 21st century, van life—and #vanlife—has exploded in a manner that makes clear life on the road for today’s adherents is more than a nostalgia kick. Starting with the arrival of highly customizable Mercedes Sprinters, followed by the Ford Transit Custom in 2012, the notion of a combined mobile living room and workspace hit the mainstream. Legacy van makers, as well as a growing number of custom shops, found eager customers among digital nomads and millennial overlanders.
“Before it was cool and trendy, all it was essentially was people putting RV and boat parts into vans,” says Kurt Bradler, owner of Contravans in Denver, Colorado, an all-in-one shop for adventure van build-outs and repairs. “It’s gone from a fad to a full-blown industry.”
Of course, the pandemic played its role. Lock down amplified the reach of social media; remote work brought masses to the road, and a new wave of creatives in the outdoors gave rise to an entire ecosystem of GPS-enhanced vagabonds. Pairing a digitally connected society with a relaxed sense of professional etiquette, it became easy to follow inspiration wherever it led.
“The soul of van life really is about the meaning and not the miles,” says Jen Young, co-founder of Outdoorsy, a global rental company based in Austin, Texas, which has connected van and RV owners with travelers worldwide since 2015. “There’s no question the pandemic fundamentally reshaped how people think about travel, and van life became one of the most liberating responses to that shift.”
Photo Credit: oksanaphoto/Getty
Among those that made this shift was Johanna Flashman, a roaming SEO consultant, freelance writer and editor who opted for mobile living three years ago. Author of Beer Hiking Southern California, published in 2024, Flashman purchased a used Ram Promaster with 13,000 miles on it. Having added 30,000 miles to the odometer, she has dealt with a variety of challenges, including leaky ceiling fans and faulty electrical fuses. And while her Instagram features stunning landscapes, swimming holes and trail runs, Flashman doesn’t consider herself an influence—she often shows the harder side of van living. “The person who thinks that van life is just going to be smooth sailing,” she says, “is in for a very rude awakening.”
Countless travelers have endured the challenges and expanded the movement. Consider the new VW all-electric ID. Buzz, which can be given a bespoke camper treatment by Peace Vans, bringing the original hippie microbus into the 21st century. Or the seemingly endless list of conversion shops building off the Sprinter chassis today. Vans are rolling into the future. One day, Jen Young suggests, self-driving vans may deliver hikers to the trailhead. Or maybe van lifers will find themselves looking for vehicles that do less, says Alan Macey, who worked for Ford, Volkswagen and BMW before joining the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, where he teaches automotive design.
“I spend time trying to talk my students out of doing everything inside the vehicle,” he says. “You’re going to want to stop and get outside every couple of hours, so is giving up that space for an indoor bathroom really a good idea?” The man who first coined #vanlife, Foster Huntington, remains philosophical: “I very much still see people living in vans, or traveling in vans. The beauty of road trips is that they’re so simple to do, and it’s just a great way to get outside.”
The vehicles may change. So may the destinations and travelers. But the road trip will almost certainly endure as it has for decades. From Jack Kerouac’s On the Road to Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again” to viral hashtags, Americans have proven their zeal for the open road will not be tempered—not anytime soon, at least. And as long as the open road calls, vans will almost certainly venture down it.
Milestones
Photo Credit: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
1950
Volkswagen introduces the “Type 2” van, which through its various iterations will epitomize van life for nearly 40 years.
Photo Credit: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
1956
The first VW Westfalia campers are exported to the United States.
UK-based Bedford starts producing the CA Dormobile, a prototype RV easily converted into a camper van.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor
1965
Ford introduces the Transit, or T-Series, as a cargo van in the European market. Nearly 50 years later, the fourth generation T-Series becomes the base for many camper van conversions.
Photo Credit: AP Photo
1969
The Woodstock Music and Arts Fair brings nearly half a million people to Bethel, New York, for three days of peace, music, and revelry. The Volkswagen van becomes synonymous with hippie culture.
Photo Credit: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
1980
Volkswagen brings the first Vanagon to the United States and introduces the Syncro model with AWD in 1986.
Photo Credit: NBC Universal
1993
Chris Farley introduces Saturday Night Live audiences to motivational speaker Matt Foley, who lives in a “van down by the river.”
Photo Credit: Mercedes Benz Classic
1995
After decades of producing utilitarian vans for commercial purposes, Mercedes unveils the Sprinter, a rear-wheel-drive vehicle lauded for its comfort. In 2006, the company allowed for further model customization, setting the bar for luxury Class B RVs and the stage for later off-road options.
2010
Instagram goes live, making it (theoretically) possible for roaming influencers to make money off images of #vanlife.
Photo Credit: Ford
2020
Ford introduces its all-wheel-drive T-series with a 10-speed automatic overdrive transmission, setting a new bar for power and affordability in the camper van segment.
Photo Credit: Elisabeth Jurenka
2020
The COVID-19 pandemic hits, leading to a boom in remote work. By some accounts, between 2020 and 2022 new adherents of van life increase by more than 60 percent, with approximately 3 million Americans living full-time on the road.
2021
Nomadland, a film exploring the complexities of RV living in tough times, sweeps the Oscars.
Image Courtesy of Volkswagen
2024
A hint at the next phase of van culture: all-electric Sprinters and VWs roll out.
The Platforms
Since its international debut 30 years ago, no camper van chassis has become more ubiquitous than the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. It’s the one most often built upon by custom shops and legacy RV manufacturers—and for good reason. The turbo-diesel engine is powerful and fuel efficient, the all-wheel-drive system is industry leading, and the clearance can accommodate off-road adventures. The downside? It’s expensive.
In recent years, the Ford Transit and Dodge Ram ProMaster have emerged as popular—and budget-friendly—alternatives. In
2020, when Ford unveiled an all-wheel-drive model of the Transit, it became a realistic option for van lifers who wanted to explore deep in the backcountry. And with one of the tallest roofs available, the Transit offers a palatial base for a van conversion.
The Promaster, too, is roomy—its body is wide and features a low floor, making it easy to load gear, pets, or children. And while it’s not yet available in all-wheel-drive, its fuel economy is attracting more van lifers every year.
The Models
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Revel
One of the most advanced vans on the market, the 2025 Revel combines off-road capability, interior luxury and innovative power solutions all of which are integrated in a vehicle length under 20 feet. Built atop an AWD Mercedes Sprinter chassis, the Revel uses a turbo-diesel engine that delivers 330 foot-pounds of torque, making even the most remote campsite accessible. Plus, with the van’s custom insulation and the Winnebago Power Max System, campers will have the heat—and the juice—to stay off-grid even in the coldest months. Starting at $254,076
Photo Credit: Airstream
Airstream Interstate 19
Though it’s undoubtedly a van, there’s a reason Airstream calls its Class B Interstate a “touring coach.” It can fit seven, and its elegant interior (with two TVs) resembles a hotel suite more than a campsite. But it’s also equipped for a crowd, as the cockpit can become a second sleeping area, and for those looking to go off-grid, an upgraded heating system makes the Interstate among the most effcient rigs on the market. Starting at $231,400
Photo Credit: Coachmen
Coachmen Galleria
The 2025 Galleria uses an extended Mercedes Sprinter chassis, making it one of the bigger camper vans on the market: more than 24 feet long. That extra room isn’t wasted. With several seating areas and an uncommonly large dinette, the Galleria packs more into its interior—including a rear sofa and a 24-inch television—than the typical van. Starting at $270,366
Photo Credit: Entegra
Entegra Ethos
Utilizing a RAM Promaster 3500 chassis, the all-new Entegra Ethos is nearly 21-feet long and comes in four customizable floor plans. Build options are abundant, including a lithium power package for venturing off-grid sans generator, as well as a pop-top sleeping area for travelers who need a bed for guests. A suite of driver-assist features keep van lifers safe on the road. Starting at $182,550
Photo Credit: Jayco
Jayco Terrain
Designed for road warriors bringing a few toys along, the 2025 Terrain offers ample storage capacity without sacrificing the interior amenities that make van life, well, liveable. Built on an AWD Mercedes Sprinter 2500 chassis, the Terrain is equipped with (yes) all-terrain tires and can explore deep down unpaved roads. With a roomy rear garage and a sleeping space that descends from the ceiling, the rig was built for adventure. Starting at $209,993
Photo Credit: Grant Hindsley
Beautiful Build-Outs
Storyteller Overland
Location: Birmingham, Alabama Specialty: Camper van and expedition trucks
Storyteller has been building rugged vehicles— like its flagship MODE vans and its GXV trucks—and stoking adventure-minded travelers along the way since 2019. Its new CREW MODE van, which can sleep up to five, is designed specifically with families in mind. storytelleroverland.com
Leisure Travel Vans
Location: Winkler, Manitoba, Canada Specialty: Class C Motorhomes
With its origins dating back 60 years, the Canadian company builds Class C RVs on Sprinter and Transit chassis. Its Unity class is highly customizable— it has six floor plans—and can even be outfitted with a Murphy bed. leisurevans.com
Outside Van
Location: Portland, Oregon Specialty: Sprinter van conversions
Since Outside Van launched in 2007, it’s become one of the most prolific conversion shops in the country, annually producing more than 100 custom builds using the Mercedes Sprinter chassis. The company encourages their customers to choose every interior detail, ensuring each build is unique. outsidevan.com
Photo Credit: Will Matsuda
Pleasure-Way
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada Speciality: Class B Motorhomes
Specializing in vans and small motorhomes since 1986, Pleasure-Way builds six distinct vehicles—utilizing Sprinter and Transit chassis—and sells them through dealerships across Canada and the United States. The Plateau XLTS features a wide body to maximize interior amenities. pleasureway.com
Benchmark Vehicles
Location: Portland, Oregon Speciality: Sprinter van build-outs
Benchmark builds exclusively on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis, but aside from that detail, everything else is up to its customers. Launched in 2014 by a woodworker-turned-van-converter, each vehicle is built specifically to the buyer’s preference. benchmarkvehicles.com
Peace Vans
Location: Seattle, Washington Specialty: Volkswagen and Mercedes van restoration and conversion
Since 2013, Peace Vans has offered Vanagon repair, restoration and build-out services for road-loving folk infatuated with vintage rides. These days, the shop is working with Volkswagen to create camper van concepts for the all-electric ID. Buzz. peacevans.com
Photo Credit: Grant Hindsley
Campovans
Location: Santa Barbara, California Specialty: Camper van build-outs
If you show up in Santa Barbara with a van—whether it’s a Sprinter, Transit, Promaster, or Astro —the team at CampoVans will build it to your custom specs. One of the oldest conversion shops in the business, they’ve been innovating since 2008. campovans.com
Quigley 4×4
Location: Manchester, Pennsylvania Specialty: Four-wheel-drive conversions
Quigley started customizing and mechanically converting vans to 4×4 back in the 1970s, and since then they’ve taken thousands of Ford, Chevy and Nissan vans and made them off-road capable. Today, they’re the only shop approved by Ford to make the Transit four-wheel drive. quigley4x4.com
The Gear
Photo Credit: Yakima
With the limited space in a van, you’d be forgiven if you didn’t prioritize a shower in your custom build-out. But the Yakima RoadShower, which attaches to the outside of your rig and boasts pressurized 10-gallon tanks, is ideal for scrubbing down at the end of a long day. $669
Photo Credit: Viair
When the pavement ends and the gravel begins, you’ll want to air down your tires. And when it’s time to reinflate, the Viair 89P RVS Portable Compressor, designed specifically for Class Bs, can fill tires from 80 to 90 PSI in under two minutes. $79.95
Photo Credit: Goal Zero
Equal parts cooler, fridge, and freezer, the Goal Zero Alta 50 has more than 50 liters of capacity (that’s 75 cans worth of space). Thanks to insulated design, it’s more than capable as a cooler; plug it in and it will chill perishables down to -4 degrees. $799
Photo Credit: Hydrapak
Plastic water jugs take up precious space in a van when not in use—plus, they’re prone to failure in cold temps. With a collapsible and easy-to-transport water bag like the Hydrapak Seeker 4L, you can stuff your van with other precious belongings. $31
Photo Credit: Nemo Equipment
Even the most well-equipped camper van might not have an ideal area to prepare food and/or eat. Something you can set up outside—like the dual-height Moonlander Table from Nemo Equipment—will transform mealtime. $159.95
Photo Credit: Starlink
Why go searching for Wi-Fi if you don’t have to? With a Starlink Mini, vanlifers can connect to reliable internet in seconds, no matter how far flung their travels may be. Plans start at $50/month
Photo Credit: HMD
There’s nothing like leaving cell service behind. That is, until something goes wrong. A trusted satellite messenger should be part of every van lifer’s kit, and the HMD Offgrid—easy to use and equipped with an SOS button— offers cheaper plans than most competitors. $199.99
Photo Credit: Rumpl
A good comforter or sleeping bag is essential for van life. So, too, is a blanket you can deploy outside on chilly evenings. The Original Puffy from Rumpl is just that: It’ll keep you cozy while also handling the rigors of campsite living (you can even get one with a National Park-inspired design). Starting at $99
Photo Credit: JetBoil
Whether you’re heating water for morning coff ee or steaming vegetables for dinner, the JetBoil Sumo offers a nearly two-liter cooking cup that can be paired with skillets and cooking pots. Weighing only one pound and packing up to 5 x 8 inches, it stows away easily on the road. $179.99, jetboil.com
Photo Credit: EcoFlow
The age of noisy gas generators is coming to an end thanks to power stations like the EcoFlow Delta 2 Max. With a max output of 3400 watts, this solar generator can run nearly every appliance in your rig, supporting long expeditions off grid. $949, ecoflow.com
Located along the scenic Route 1 corridor in Wells, Maine, Sea-Vu Campground treats visitors to the quintessential New England coastal camping experience. Open from May 9 through October 15, this family-owned campground has been welcoming travelers since 1972. Guests enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure on Maine’s southern Atlantic shore.
A Coastal Retreat with Comfort and Charm
Sea-Vu Campground boasts more than 200 full-hookup sites, including big rig sites, with picnic tables and plenty of room for slide-outs. Amenities include a swimming pool with a poolside patio, an 18-hole mini-golf course, a large equipment playground, and basketball and bocce courts. Guests can also enjoy a recreation area with video games and a pool table. Guests can also enjoy a family entertainment room with a lending library and aerobic dance classes, and free hot showers. Pets are welcome on a leash, and free Wi-Fi is available to all guests.
Photo is courtesy of Sea-Vu Campground.
Park models are also available for guests who don’t have RVs but still seek that rustic lodging experience amid sweeping Maine landscapes.
Photo is courtesy of Sea-Vu Campground.
Exploring the Surrounding Attractions
Sea-Vu Campground’s prime location in Wells makes it an ideal base for exploring the rich array of nearby attractions.
Beaches: Just minutes away from the campground are several Southern Maine beaches. Walk the white sands of Wells Beach, Drakes Island Beach, Crescent Beach, and beaches in Moody, Kennebunk, and Ogunquit. These shores offer lifeguard-protected swimming areas, boat launching facilities, and opportunities for deep-sea fishing and sailing.
Cultural Attractions: The nearby Ogunquit Playhouse offers summer stock theater performances, while the Johnson Hall Museum, housed in the historic Libby’s Colonial Tea Room, showcases Americana artifacts.
Family Fun: Families can enjoy Wonder Mountain Fun Park, featuring two 18-hole mini-golf courses, a human maze, arcade games, and go-karts.
Outdoor Activities: For those seeking outdoor adventures, options include kayaking, deep-sea fishing, whale watching, and hiking along scenic trails. Golfers can tee off at the Old Marsh Country Club, an 18-hole championship course known for its classic design.
Dining and Shopping
Wells is renowned as the “Antique Capital” of Maine, with numerous antique shops, flea markets, and auctions bustling along Route 1. Food lovers can indulge in a variety of dining options, from casual clam and lobster shacks and diners to gourmet seafood restaurants. Local favorites include Fisherman’s Catch Restaurant and Hobbs Harborside Restaurant, both offering fresh seafood and picturesque views.
Community Events and Activities
Sea-Vu Campground hosts various camp-sponsored events throughout the season, fostering a sense of community among guests. Additionally, Wells Harbor Community Park offers free live concerts on many weekends during the summer months and hosts HarborFest, an annual community celebration in August.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit Sea-Vu Campground or call 207-646-7732.
Is camping in Maine on your travel wish list? Then Red Apple Campground in Kennebunkport, near the state’s southern rockbound coast, belongs on your itinerary.
“Clean, Quiet & Relaxing – The Way Camping Should Be!” is the campground’s motto, and the staff live up to it every day. If you appreciate an award-winning campground that has a Good Sam rating of 10/10*/10, enjoy being treated like family, and sometimes even better, then Red Apple Campground is the place for you.
Photo courtesy of Red Apple Campground.
Over the years, Red Apple Campground has garnered top awards from the Maine Campground Owners Association, the Northeast Campground Association, and the National Association of RV Parks & Campground Owners. In 2017, U.S. News and World Report ranked Red Apple Campground as one of the top 11 family-friendly parks in the United States.
Loving the Maine “Lobstah”!
Guests at Red Apple Campground are just a short drive from scenic beaches, lighthouses, fantastic seafood, and, of course, fresh Maine Lobster. The campground opens in early May and closes in October. The area is so rich in attractions that you’ll be tempted to stay the whole season.
Maine lobster. Photo: Ye Junhao
Red Apple keeps things interesting. One of the campground’s most popular perks is the daily “Lobstah Service.” Guests who order a locally sourced crustacean by 10 a.m. will receive the hot, steamed delicacy to their site by 5:30 p.m. the same day. Guests can specify size and quantity when they order.
Adventurers can embark on a Whale Watch boat, go deep-sea fishing, or ride a masted schooner for an old-school nautical experience. Take an excursion on a real Maine lobster boat and see how they are harvested. All of this and more is available right in downtown Kennebunkport, only five minutes from Red Apple.
A two-masted schooner in Kennebunkport. Photo: Rich Martello
Shopping and the Shore
Great retail is a key feature here. Kittery outlet malls are only 30 miles south. L.L. Bean’s flagship store in Freeport is open year-round and located about an hour north.
Prefer sandy beaches over sales? With great shores in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, Wells, York, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, Cape Ellis, and more, you could hit a different beach every day if you desired.
Photo courtesy of Red Apple Campground.
Red Apple Campground Amenities
You don’t need an RV or a tent to have a great lodging experience at Red Apple. There are several rentals available, from basic cabins to park models with fully stocked kitchens, central heating, and air conditioning. All you need to do is bring your family. There are even some pet-friendly rental units as well, and the campground has a pet-friendly policy.
Various forms of entertainment are available daily in the heated and air-conditioned rec hall, with special entertainment scheduled throughout the season.
Travelers have more reasons to camp, play, and relax at Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts this summer.
The nationwide network of more than 200 high-quality RV resorts has made significant upgrades to many of its properties, from more power at RV sites to new amenities ranging from pools to additional spaces to miniature golf courses.
Check out the following enhancements found at ThousandTrails.com resorts during your travels this summer:
White Oak Shores. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
White Oak Shores in Stella, North Carolina
Located on the White Oak River close to the Crystal Coast, White Oak Shores Campground has recently added 200 new RV sites to its impressive array of lodging options set amid lush greenery. As of May, the resort has also opened a spacious pool house, new pool and deck, splash pad, and open pavilion.
The additions complement the volleyball and basketball courts, barbecue area, and store. The park’s location, close to great fishing and boating, makes it a top destination for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
Topsail pool. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
Topsail Sound RV Park in Holly Ridge, North Carolina
Only minutes from Jacksonville and Wilmington, Topsail Sound Campground puts guests close to beautiful beaches on the mainland side of Topsail Island. The stunning park has gotten even better recently with the addition of a new pool and bathhouse, along with 120 new RV sites. The resort has a clubhouse, fishing area, and picnic/barbecue area, among other amenities.
Topsail’s new poolhouse. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
Topsail Sound RV Park sits within walking distance of a 100-foot fishing pier available to the public for year-round angling. Also nearby are opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
Oceanside RV Resort with an upgraded site. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
Oceanside RV Resort in San Diego, California
Sitting just north of San Diego along the Pacific Coast, Oceanside RV Resort gives guests the perfect blend of beach access and one of Southern California’s top destinations. Recent enhancements include upgrading 63 sites to 50-amp pedestals. Guests can also enjoy new picnic tables at all sites as well as keyless entry for all amenities. Other improvements include a new miniature golf area, an updated game room, and new cabanas at the pool.
Oceanside RV Resort grilling area. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
The improvements nicely accompany the resort’s existing amenities, which include a sparkling pool, easy access to the beach, a relaxing fire pit, and a fully equipped barbecue area. When not hitting the waves, guests can take advantage of nearby public transit, including train and bus services, for adventures into the city or nearby coastal towns.
Solar RV Storage harvests power from the sun while providing shelter for vehicles. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
Thousand Trails Sea Pines in Cape May, New Jersey
Thousand Trails Sea Pines is located in the seaside town of Cape May and immerses guests in a woodsy environment close to local attractions. Improvements here include new Solar RV Storage, consisting of a roof covered in solar panels that protects vehicles and provides clean, sustainable power. The storage accommodates RVs, boats, and trailers up to 45 feet in length.
When not relaxing at the resort, guests can tour the area’s stunning Victorian homes or soak in views of the Atlantic as they stroll along the boardwalk.
An upgraded pool is one of the improvements at Carolina Shores. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
Carolina Shores RV Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Covering 80 acres of shorefront in Myrtle Beach, Carolina Shores RV Resort has tacked on even more enhancements to its already packed menu of amenities. The resort has upgraded the splash pad, pool, and pool furniture. Renovations to both the arcade and grill area keep both kids and adults happy, while Improvements in landscaping elevate the already beautiful environment.
Renovated arcade at Carolina Shores RV Resort. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
These additions nicely supplement the resort’s impressive array of features, including a lazy river, nearby beach access, and mini golf.
Natchez Trace on the banks of Chief Creek Lake. Photo Courtesy of Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts.
Natchez Trace in Hohenwald, Tennessee
This 830-acre campground sits on the lush banks of Chief Creek Lake, an hour outside of Nashville, offering stunning natural views in a natural environment. Life just got a whole lot nicer for campers with the addition of a beautiful pool close to the resort’s indoor pavilion.
When not enjoying the new features, guests can hit onsite hiking trails, play mini golf, and participate in onsite events. Lodging options include RV sites, themed cabins, tiny house rentals, or a lodge that accommodates up to 15 guests for the whole family.
If you’re looking for the perfect family getaway that blends outdoor adventure with a step back in time, Sauder Village in Archbold, Ohio, is the ideal destination. Nestled in rural northwest Ohio, Sauder Village is home to a living history museum where families can experience what life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries. With hands-on activities, costumed interpreters, and frequent special events, Sauder Village makes history come alive in a way that’s exciting for all ages.
Beyond the Historic Village, Sauder Village offers onsite dining, a scenic campground, a cozy inn, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a day trip, weekend adventure, or extended stay, Sauder Village is the perfect all-in-one destination.
Historic reenactor makes a dugout canoe. Photo courtesy of Sauder Village.
Connect Beyond the Everyday at the Historic Village
At the Sauder Village Historic Village, families can explore a working farm and watch talented artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like wool spinning, broom making, pottery, and more. Children will love seeing farm animals and riding the Erie Express train while discovering how people lived and worked in the past.
Each area of the Historic Village offers a glimpse into a different time period. Guests can “walk through time” from 1803 at Natives and Newcomers, to pioneer life in the mid-1800s, to a lively 1920s Main Street.
Tourists turn back the clock to discover centuries-old crafts and customs. Photo courtesy of Sauder Village.
No visit to the Historic Village is complete without stopping for a bite at the 1920s Soda Fountain for hot dogs, ice cream, and phosphates, or without purchasing old-fashioned sweet treats at Main Street Confections.
Onsite Camping: Stay Close to the Fun
For families that love the great outdoors, the Sauder Village Campground is a fantastic lodging option. Located just a short walk from the Historic Village, the campground offers a peaceful retreat with modern amenities. Whether you bring a camper or pitch a tent, you’ll enjoy a relaxing stay surrounded by nature.
The campground features:
Full hook-up, electric/water, and electric-only sites
Tent camping sites
Clean showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities
A splash pad, playground, fishing pond, and walking trail
Dining and Additional Lodging
After a day of adventure, families can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal at the Barn Restaurant. In the morning, Doughbox Bakery is a must-visit for fresh-baked doughnuts, signature coffee drinks, and more.
Enjoying pastries at the Historic Village. Photo courtesy of Sauder Village.
For those who prefer a more traditional stay, the Sauder Village Heritage Inn offers cozy accommodations with a relaxing indoor pool and game room.
Plan Your Family Getaway Today!
A visit to Sauder Village is an experience that brings families together while making history fun and memorable. Whether you stay at the campground, the inn, or just visit for the day, you’ll leave with wonderful family memories and a deeper appreciation for the past.
Start planning your trip today at saudervillage.org and experience the charm and hospitality of Sauder Village!”
Mountains and coasts get a lot of attention as RV Travel destinations, but the less-crowded byways of the North Central United States — Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, and the Dakotas — offer equally spectacular vistas, chains of lakes, and Native American history. Travelers will also discover lots of quirky things to do as they explore.
Explorers and Native American Celebrations
During their historic trek, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark traversed much of this land after it became part of the United States in the 1803 Louisiana Territory purchase. Backed by the U.S. government, the two leaders of the Corps of Discovery set out to find an east-west waterway route. That didn’t happen, but their adventures are marked along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail sites.
And all these states are rich with Native American history and celebrations. Summer and Fall bring numerous Powwows to the region. More powwows and information can be found on each state’s powwow websites.
Powwow in the West. Photo: Getty Images
Iowa’s only Native American Powwow is the Meskwaki Annual Powwow, to be held Aug 7-12 in the Meskwaki Settlement in Tama, Iowa. Along with singing, dancing, food, and fun, the powwow features native artwork.
In Nebraska, the Santee Pow Wow runs June 24-26, and the Winnebago Homecoming Celebration takes place a month later, July 25-28, featuring the dances, music, and cultural activities that celebrate the heritage of the Winnebago Tribe.
Minnesota’s powwow celebrations begin early with Little Earth’s Annual Mother’s Day Powwow in Minneapolis, which is a community event honoring mothers with traditional dances and ceremonies. Two other Minnesota powwows celebrate the Sioux culture with the 47th Annual Cansayapi Wacipi in Morton on June 13-15 and the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Wacipi gathering in Shakopee from Aug 15-17.
Photo: Getty Images
In North Dakota, the United Tribes International Powwow in Bismarck is one of the largest, longest-running, and most attended contest powwows in the US. The 2025 Powwow is set for September 5-7 and celebrates Native American culture and tradition with dancing, drumming competitions, craft booths, and Native cuisine. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children under 12.
Also in the fall, the Black Hills Powwow in Rapid City, South Dakota, is another large Native American gathering in the region and features cultural exhibitions along with dancing competitions for all age groups and youth games. This year’s powwow runs October 10-12.
Rugged and Rich Region
The Black Hills region in southwestern South Dakota is a bucket list-worthy destination. This relatively small, isolated mountain range extends into northeastern Wyoming and is packed with attractions. The Black Hills are known for their unique geology and cultural significance to Native American tribes, especially the Lakota Sioux, who consider the area sacred and call it Paha Sapa.
Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Photo: Getty Images
While the area isn’t large, there is much to see and do. The most famous destination is Mount Rushmore National Memorial, featuring 60-foot sculptures of the faces of presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt carved into a granite cliff.
Nearby is the Crazy Horse Memorial, a massive mountain carving honoring the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse. The carving is still in progress, and the Visitors Center offers a history of the sculpture, the biography of Crazy Horse, and stunning viewing sites.
Cool Custer
Custer State Park is known for its scenic drives, such as the 14-mile Needles Highway, for amazing scenery, a variety of trailheads, and gorgeous Sylvan Lake. The Wildlife Loop takes visitors past bison herds, mountain goats, el,k and burros. A highlight of Custer State Park is the annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival on the last Friday of September. Some 1,300 bison are rounded up by cowhands and herded into corrals for testing, branding, and sorting. Visitors start lining the route in pre-dawn hours.
Photo Credit: dosecreative/Getty Images
There’s also Spearfish Canyon — a natural gorge famous for waterfalls, scenic drives, and hiking trails. And historic towns such as Deadwood of gold rush fame and Wild West tales. Custer and Rapid City also offer dozens of family attractions.
Good Times in the Badlands
And just to the east of the Black Hills – offering a stark contrast in terrain – is Badlands National Park. Gone is the wooded forest. Instead, visitors find prairie grasslands — complete with prairie dog villages, deep gorges, sandy buttes, and sharp pinnacles. The Badlands is home to one of the richest fossil beds in the world and was once roamed by saber-toothed cats, three-toed horses, and a rhinoceros variant, which grew up to 13 feet long.
When looking for the perfect family summer road trip in the United States, Route 66 or Highway 1 might be the first things that come to mind. But what if there was an even better family trip — one not well-known outside the US and not well-traveled even by Americans — but still a route packed with amazing sites, a route that covers some of the most beautiful places in America? And it’s family-friendly, offering lots of experiences you and your children can enjoy together.
In 1803, Thomas Jefferson signed the Louisiana Purchase agreement with France and acquired a huge oval swath of land extending from Montana in the north to the mouth of the Mississippi River in New Orleans in the south. The new territory encompassed parts of the West, Midwest, and South, nearly doubling the size of the United States.
A Lewis and Clark exhibit at Pompey’s Pillar National Monument in Billings, Montana. Photo: MyPublicLands
Then Jefferson decided that the new land needed to be explored, and an American presence needed to be established in the territory inhabited by numerous Native American tribes and French settlers and trappers. He was also determined to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean.
Jefferson selected a young, adventurous, family acquaintance and military veteran, Captain Meriwether Lewis, to lead the expedition. Lewis — like Jefferson —was well-educated and full of insatiable curiosity. He took quick lessons in field medicine, botany, biology, geology, and navigation by the stars. Lewis soon picked William Clark, another former soldier, to be his partner in the expedition.
Lewis’s trip had its beginnings in Pittsburgh, where he ordered his keelboat made. After overseeing the building of boats, provisioning, gathering munitions and ammunition, buying trade items and gifts for Native American leaders, and selecting their men, they were ready. The group came to be called the Corps of Discovery.
A model of the Lewis and Clark portages at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center Museum in Great Falls, Montana. Photo: Olekinderhook
Trail of Discovery
The National Lewis and Clark Historical Trail starts in Pittsburgh, but many consider the departure from St Charles, Missouri, to be the real starting point. It was from there, at a spot called Camp Dubois near St. Louis, that the group began its Westward journey into the unknown on May 14, 1804. They would not see St Louis again until Sept. 23, 1806, after the Corps of Discovery reached the Pacific Ocean at the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon, traversing nearly 5,000 miles.
During their travels, primarily navigating the Missouri and Columbia rivers, the group interacted with more than 60 native tribes, recorded hundreds of new plant and animal species, and opened the West for exploration and settlement. They did not find the coveted water route to the Pacific. Only one man died during the trip, apparently from peritonitis caused by a ruptured appendix.
Replicas of Native American dwellings in the Lewis and Clark Sacajawea Center in Salmon, Idaho. Photo: BLMIdaho
Follow in Their Footsteps
One of your best guides for the trip is the National Park Service’s Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail website. This rich resource has a suggested driving route marked with points of historical significance and visitor centers. It also offers a state-by-state guide as to what to see in any given area of the journey. There are also numerous books on things to see and do along the way. Children can journal, collect and press wildflowers, participate in activities at the many interpretive centers, and become Junior Rangers.
And for places to stay along your route, be sure to visit goodsam.com. Find your perfect campgrounds and think about reserving ahead. Parks can fill up in the summer months, especially. Download the Good Sam app for on-the-road planning and information.
Close to the Kentucky segment of the trail, Thousand Trails Natchez Trace in Hohenwald, Tennessee, welcomes campers.
A statue of Lewis and Clark in Seaside, Oregon. Photo: Honey Knut
If you plan to visit the explorers’ west coast adventures, stay at Thousand Trails Seaside in the coastal community of Seaside, Oregon. The resort sits just a short drive from the mouth of the Columbia River, where the intrepid explorers first caught sight of the great Pacific Ocean.
Summer is nearly here, and the busy travel season is just around the corner. In June, we’ll even celebrate National Go RVing Day, which is designed to raise awareness of RV travel and the joys of living the RV lifestyle. This year, that day falls on June 14, and in preparation for that date, Go RVing has launched a new media campaign that not only includes the beautiful video above but also a sweepstakes that promises to give away “the Ultimate RV Getaway.”
Photo Credit: Go RVing
The new marketing campaign encourages RVers to go “Just Beyond Your Door,” with encouragement to not just go camping, but to embrace all of the great activities that go along with it. From hiking and biking to exploring new locations and immersing yourself in local culture, RVing can be the gateway to many adventures. Best of all, your motorhome, camper van, or travel trailer is the perfect base camp for those excursions, providing all the comforts of home even when you’re on the road.
The above video is at the center of the new campaign and will appear across a number of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime, and others. The 30-second ad was produced using a high tech process that uses a massive LED volume state technology to produce realistic backgrounds for any location—real or imagined. The same technology is used by Disney to create its hit Star Wars show The Mandalorian. Here, it’s put to good use showing all of the opportunities that the RV lifestyle has to offer.
Photo Credit: cookelma/Getty
Another important element of the Go RVing media campaign is the launch of a fantastic giveaway. The organization—which is dedicated to promoting RVing in all of its forms—is giving away some wonderful prizes to help RVers embrace the travel season ahead. The top prize includes a $2,500 gift card for an RV rental, a $2,000 gift card to purchase gas, reserve a campsite, get food, and partake in activities. The winner will also get a Go RVing swag bag that features a hammock, water bottles, and other items. To sign up, simply click here and fill out the online form. This “Ultimate RV Getaway” sweepstakes closes on June 8, with the winner being announced on National Go RV Day.
Hit play on the video above to generate some inspiration for your next RV adventure, then head over to the Ultimate RV Getaway page to sign up to win the prize. And don’t forget to embrace your adventurous side and go just beyond your door.
Just a few blocks from the famous Strip, the Las Vegas RV Resort offers a serene retreat for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. This adult-only resort provides a peaceful environment with top-tier amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the vibrant attractions that surround it.
Resort Amenities and Features
The resort boasts 379 full hook-up sites, with options ranging from standard to XL sites (up to 100 feet long). Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a newly renovated swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and multiple off-leash dog areas. The on-site general store offers convenience items, Las Vegas merchandise, and RV supplies, ensuring guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay. With 24-hour courtesy patrol and immaculate facilities, the resort prioritizes guest safety and satisfaction.
Photo courtesy of Las Vegas RV Resort.
Proximity to Entertainment and Dining
Located just a few blocks from the resort, the legendary Las Vegas Strip pulses with gambling and entertainment energy. Indeed, the resort is close to some of Sin City’s biggest attractions, the closest being Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall, which offers a variety of gaming options, dining venues, and entertainment. For those craving diverse culinary experiences, restaurants such as Lindo Michoacan serve authentic Mexican cuisine, while the Angry Butcher provides a classic steakhouse ambiance.
Exploring Iconic Las Vegas Attractions
A visit to the Fremont Street Experience northwest of the resort is a must. This pedestrian mall in downtown Las Vegas features the Viva Vision canopy, the world’s largest video screen, offering nightly light and sound shows. The area also hosts free concerts and the thrilling SlotZilla zip line.
Photo courtesy of Las Vegas RV Resort.
For those interested in the city’s rich history, the Mob Museum provides an in-depth look at organized crime’s impact on Las Vegas and beyond. The Neon Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past through its collection of iconic neon signs. Close to the resort, outstanding golf courses give visitors a great excuse to avoid casinos.
Photo courtesy of Las Vegas RV Resort.
Stellar City Attractions
Even while gambling is the main reason people travel to Vegas, thrill-seekers can engage in a variety of other activities. In addition to Cirque du Soleil and Blue Man Group events, live entertainment is quite popular here and includes everything from magic shows to off-Broadway musicals to musicals. There are thrills at amusement parks worldwide. There is a sky jump, a drop tower, and a roller coaster at the Stratosphere Casino, Hotel, and Tower. Explore downtown’s Container Park for a unique shopping experience. See the enormous sculpture of a praying mantis shoot flames from its antenna if you visit in the evening. The High Roller Observation Wheel transports passengers up to 550 feet, while Speed Vegas allows visitors to pump petrol in a powerful sports automobile.
Exploring the shore of Lake Mead. Photo courtesy of Las Vegas RV Resort.
Outdoor Adventures and Natural Beauty
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the resort’s proximity to stunning natural attractions. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers scenic drives, hiking, and rock climbing opportunities amidst striking red sandstone formations. To the east, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area provides a setting for boating, fishing, and swimming. And of course, no visit would be complete without visiting the Hoover Dam, a 726-foot-high marvel of engineering that has been harnessing the Colorado River’s current since 1936.
Magnificent Apache Junction enjoys enviable geography. To the west, the bright lights of Phoenix shimmer, and to the east, the breathtaking peaks of the Superstition Mountains soar. Guests at Arizonian RV Resort in Apache Junction can enjoy the surrounding attractions in equal measure. Set amid the stark beauty of the Sonoran Desert, the 55+ resort delivers an impressive range of services and activities to keep guests busy, all while cultivating a welcoming and warm community.
Superstition Mountains. Photo: Lucy Wolski
Cool Camping in the Desert
With more than 354 sites, Arizonian RV Resort provides visitors with a range of camping options. Many sites have full hookups, with 30- and 50-amp power. Take advantage of the park’s Wi-Fi to connect to the outside world and keep your clothes clean in the well-equipped on-site laundry area. The campsite offers daily, weekly, and monthly rates so that campers can personalize their vacation.
Photo: Arizonian RV Resort
Eager to stay for a while? Visitors can also purchase one of the park models or install a new one. These dwellings give residents the feel of home without losing the outdoorsy atmosphere.
Active guests can keep themselves busy at the park’s putting green, fitness center, and pool. Competition is encouraged by the pickleball, shuffleboard, and bocce ball courts, and guests can cultivate hobbies in the pottery shop, wood shop, and art room. Choose between two clubhouses for games and social gatherings. On a dog run, your dogs can let off steam.
Photo: Arizonian RV Resort.
Join the Fun
While visiting, guests can dive into group activities, like line dance courses, chair yoga, and bocce ball and tennis matches. Special events include casino nights, craft shows, and themed meals. Get to know your neighbors by taking part in one of the resort’s social activities.
Lovers of live entertainment take in shows at the Arizonian, and adventurers can participate in themed excursions to neighboring locations. Visit Goldfield Ghost Town, a restored 1890s village in town, dressed in your best Old West garb.
Photo: Bradley Dunn
Biking, Hiking, and Off-roading
Adventures for almost all types of travelers can be found in the nearby Sonoran Desert. Explorers can delve into the area via hiking and equestrian trails, and there are stables for horseback riding close to the resort.
One of the most well-liked hiking routes is the 3.7-mile, intermediate Shaka Cave via Lost Gold Mine Trail, which leads into the Superstition Wilderness. This area, which was once inhabited by indigenous people, still has traces of indigenous people from centuries ago.
Do you prefer tires to boot treads? Less than a mile away is the Desert Wells OHV Staging Area, a great site to begin off-roading adventures. Nearer to the Superstition Mountains is the Montana Mountain/Queen Valley OHV Trail, which is 45.6 miles long and reaches 5,000 feet with sweeping Sonoran views of the mountains and desert. If you like pedal power, mountain cyclists may enjoy four miles of stunning scenery on the Lost Goldmine and Cougar Loop Trail. In addition, there are exciting paths in the Tonto National Forest to the north.
A few miles northwest of the resort, the Arizona Renaissance Festival Grounds give guests a taste of Old World chivalry and revelry.
Rugged mountains outside of Sedona. Photo: Edmundo Mendez Jr.
Seeking Sedona
The idyllic hamlet of Sedona is located around 150 miles north of Apache Junction. Sedona is situated in the verdant Coconino National Forest in northern Arizona, just over 4,000 feet above sea level. Oak Creek, a gentle stream that runs through town and southwest across the gorgeous Red Rock State Park, divides the area, which is characterized by beautiful, crimson-hued Red Rock buttes. Compared to other parts of the Southwest, this area has a mild, semiarid climate with high desert topography and summer highs in the mid-90s or winter highs in the mid-50s.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross, built on a sandstone bluff, is a stunning example of modern architecture that blends in with its surroundings. The structure was built in the 1950s by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright and features a huge cross supporting its wall of windows. Go hiking or hit the town for spa treatments, excellent dining, and New Age retailers.
Flagstaff, located further north, is a relaxed starting point for trips to the San Francisco Peaks and the Grand Canyon. Explore the solar system at the Lowell Observatory, the site of Pluto’s initial discovery, or stop at Flagstaff’s flower-filled Arboretum. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food and entertainment options in this area, which is home to Northern Arizona University.
Phoenix is flanked by mountains. Photo: Mathew Hamilton.
Fun and Phoenix
The capital of Arizona, which provides a unique big-city atmosphere amidst the desert, is only 45 minutes to the west of the resort. Phoenix, the fifth largest city in the United States, makes the most of its arid location. Roosevelt Row, one of the town’s busiest neighborhoods, is a terrific spot to enjoy microbrews and take in the artwork. Discover the intersection of nature and urban life by following the trails that meander through the 140 acres of the Desert Botanical Garden. Travelers interested in architecture visit Taliesin West in neighboring Scottsdale, the distinctive desert residence of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Play Ball, Arizona-Style
The resort is a terrific place for baseball fans to visit between February and April. The Cactus League features 10 regional, state-of-the-art ballparks where Major League Baseball teams play each other. Watch the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Dodgers compete on the field. Hohokam Stadium, home of the Oakland Athletics, is located in Mesa, 35 minutes from the resort, so get your baseball fix there.
Call 520-463-2978 to make reservations at the Arizonian RV Resort.
Thanks to the continued growth in popularity of RVing, booking a campsite has become more challenging than ever. Many popular locations are booked solid for months in advance, with new reservations disappearing as soon as they become available. However, some RV owners have found it increasingly difficult to secure a site for an entirely different reason—the age of their vehicle.
In recent years, it has become more common for campgrounds to inquire about the age of an RV or request photos of the vehicle when owners make their initial reservation. Some sites have even gone so far as to ban all motorhomes and travel trailers that are more than 10 years old, turning away paying customers simply due to the age of their RV.
To be fair, this practice isn’t entirely new, it’s just received more attention as campsite bookings have become harder to obtain. But as more and more older RVs remain on the road, and the preowned sales market continues to boom, the so-called “10-year rule” has impacted an increasing number of people. So what exactly is this rule and why does it exist? And perhaps more importantly, what can you do about it? Read on to find out.
Image Courtesy of Konoplytska/Getty
What is the RV 10-Year Rule?
Simply put, the 10-year rule is a policy enforced by some RV parks and campgrounds that excludes any motorhomes, camper vans, travel trailers, or fifth-wheels that are more than a decade old from staying onsite. RV owners are most likely to encounter the rule when booking at a more upscale resort, although it isn’t exclusively found at those establishments. It also isn’t a hard and fast rule, with enforcement more likely to come during the busiest times of the year. Some campsites are a bit more lenient when their locations aren’t as crowded.
Image Courtesy of atlantic-kid/Getty
Why Does the 10-Year Rule Exist?
On the surface, the 10-year rule feels discriminatory and exclusionary. After all, an RV is a significant investment, and most people don’t trade them in for a new model every few years like they might with a car. On top of that, there are plenty of older motorhomes and travel trailers on the road that are in excellent condition, are made from high-quality materials, and have low mileage. Banning them simply because of their age seems like an overreaction.
As it turns out, some campgrounds may have legitimate reasons for wanting to keep older RVs out. For instance, older vehicles are more prone to fluid leaks, which depending on local laws and regulations, could result in hefty fines for the owner of the RV park. An RV that is past its prime may also have faulty electrical wiring, increasing the chance of a fire. These kinds of issues pose a legitimate risk to the health and safety of other guests and are a genuine liability.
Sometimes the 10-year rule is used to maintain the aesthetic of the campgrounds. Most RVers don’t like to spend their time at the campsite looking at rundown vehicles in desperate need of repair. By banning all motorhomes and towables older than a decade, campground owners are actually exercising quality control over which RVs are allowed on the premises. This helps to weed out potential eyesores that may have an impact on the experiences of other guests.
Yet another reason for enforcing the 10-year rule is to avoid older RVs from breaking down while at the campsite. If a motorhome has a mechanical issue, it can sometimes take time to track down the parts needed—not to mention a qualified mechanic—to fix it. In those instance, the vehicle may end up stranded at the campground for an extended period with few options for moving it. Depending on local laws, it can also be challenging to force the owners of an RV to leave the premises. By restricting access to only newer vehicles, there is less chance of these issues occurring.
Image Courtesy of FineBokeh/Getty
Is the 10-Year Rule Legal?
Public campsites don’t enforce the 10-year rule, which means all campgrounds that practice this policy are privately owned businesses. Because of this, the owners have the right to restrict access to anyone they choose, so long as they don’t discriminate based on race, gender or religion.
In much the same way that it is legal for a restaurant to enforce a dress code, the RV park can set standards for the vehicles it allows on the property. In other words, the 10-year rule isn’t illegal in any way and is a legitimate way to keep older RVs out. Whether or not it is fair is an entirely different conversation.
Image Courtesy of welcomia/Getty
How to Avoid the 10-Year Rule
As troublesome as the 10-year rule can be, there are some ways to avoid getting turned away from an RV park. The most obvious way to do that is not to own an RV that is more than 10 years old. That isn’t very realistic, however, as most of us don’t replace our motorhomes simply because they are more than a decade old.
As already mentioned, some private campgrounds use the 10-year rule to prevent older RVs from breaking down while on the premises. By keeping your RV well maintained and in good working order, there is less chance you’ll get turned away, even if your vehicle is older than ten years. The rule is meant to keep out problematic motorhomes that could have mechanical failures or fluid leaks at the campsite. If your vehicle isn’t experiencing those kinds of issues, RV parks are more likely to let you in.
Maintaining the appearance of your RV is equally important when it comes to circumventing the 10-year rule. It is not uncommon for campgrounds that enforce this policy to request recent photos of your motorhome or towable before you arrive at the location. This allows them to inspect the vehicle and decide whether or not to let it in, regardless of its age. If your RV is in good condition and doesn’t have any cosmetic flaws, it is more likely to be accepted. Conversely, if it is showing its age or isn’t well maintained, the RV park may reject your reservation request.
Image Courtesy of Getty
If you happen to be the owner of a vintage travel trailer, you could easily find yourself banned from a campground due to the age of your RV. Some models have been around for decades, often undergoing multiple renovations throughout their lifespans. When it comes to the 10-year rule, vintage trailers are often given a pass if they have been updated to modern appliances and HVAC systems and have had their exteriors restored. If you’re asked about your camper’s age when booking a reservation, be sure to point out any recent renovations or modernizations that you have done. It could help you nab a campsite that might have otherwise been elusive.
The length of your stay could impact how stringent the RV park is with enforcing the 10-year rule, too. Some locations will allow older vehicles to set up camp, provided they only stay for a night or two. A campground is more likely to enforce the policy if the reservation is for an extended stay, lasting for several weeks or even longer.
If your RV is in good condition, there is a good chance that the RV park will accept your reservation, even if the vehicle is over its stated age limit. By providing recent photos of your motorhome or travel trailer, the staff at the campground can assess the vehicle themselves and make a ruling. As noted, the 10-year rule is usually implemented as a way to sort out RVs that could be problematic and isn’t always strictly applied. And If you happen to own an RV from one of the more well-known upscale, luxury brands, your chances of being accepted are also better.
Image Courtesy of welcomia/Getty
Take Your Business Elsewhere
Of course, you can always ask yourself if you really want to stay at a campground that strictly adheres to the 10-year rule in the first place. There are plenty of RV parks where this is not an issue, and one way of avoiding such policies is to simply take your business elsewhere. Booking a campsite at a place that is more open and accommodating to older RVs is an excellent way to vote with your dollars. Even if your motorhome or towable is still relatively new, you can elect to stay somewhere else as a protest against these exclusionary tactics.
While the 10-year rule has become somewhat more common in recent years, the number of RV parks that actively enforce the policy remains relatively small. It is possible that you may encounter this rule when trying to book a campsite—particularly at a newer campground—but for the most part, it remains fairly unusual. However, it is something to keep in mind, particularly if your vehicle is older and in need of some mechanical or cosmetic updates.
Thankfully, there are plenty of places to camp throughout the US, and finding an alternative shouldn’t be a challenge. When booking a site, do your research ahead of time and make sure it is a location where you will feel comfortable parking your RV, whether it is brand new, approaching the ten-year mark, or simply vintage.
