Some say that timing is everything, and that adage could easily apply to Long Island Bridge Campground in scenic Moultonborough, New Hampshire. The campground was founded in 1966 — the same year as the Good Sam — and, like its counterpart, has enjoyed steady success as the camping industry has grown.
Vacation Central
Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Long Island Bridge Campground offers a tranquil escape for campers. The family-run campground provides a variety of accommodations, from tent sites to fully equipped RV hookups, all set against the backdrop of one of New England’s most popular lakes.
Photo courtesy of Long Island Bridge Campground
Lakeside Living and Amenities
Long Island Bridge Campground boasts a private, sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or launching a kayak. The campground offers a range of sites, including shaded tent spots, terraced trailer sites with full hookups, and waterfront locations with stunning views of Long Island and the bridge. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fireplace, inviting guests to enjoy cozy evenings under the stars.
For those seeking additional comfort, the campground offers camper cabins and rental trailers, catering to families and small groups. On-site amenities include modern restrooms with hot showers, a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and a dock for boating and fishing activities. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available, allowing guests to explore the lake at their own pace.
Photo courtesy of Long Island Bridge Campground
Nearby Attractions
While the campground offers a peaceful retreat, the surrounding area is rich with attractions and activities that cater to a variety of interests.
Castle in the Clouds
A short drive from the campground, Castle in the Clouds is a historic mansion perched atop the Ossipee Mountains. Built in 1913, the estate offers guided tours of its 16 rooms, showcasing early 20th-century architecture and design. Visitors can also explore the surrounding hiking trails and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Belknap Mountain Range.
Castle in the Clouds. Photo: Fletcher
The Loon Center
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to The Loon Center in Moultonborough. This educational facility focuses on the conservation of loons and their habitats. The center offers informative exhibits, a gift shop, and opportunities to learn about the efforts to preserve these iconic birds.
A loon navigates a New Hampshire lake. Photo: Steve Adams.
Red Hill Fire Tower
For those seeking outdoor adventure, a hike to the Red Hill Fire Tower provides a rewarding experience. The well-maintained trails lead to a fire tower that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. It’s an ideal spot for photography, picnics, and appreciating the natural beauty of the area.
Winnipesaukee Playhouse
Located in Meredith, the Winnipesaukee Playhouse is a regional theater offering professional productions during the summer months. With a variety of performances ranging from classic plays to contemporary works, it’s a great way to enjoy local culture and entertainment.
The Old Country Store, home of Freese’s Tavern. Photo: Magicpiano
Freese’s Tavern
Step back in time with a visit to Freese’s Tavern, one of the oldest establishments of its kind in the United States. Built around 1780, this historic tavern and general store has served as a post office, library, and town hall. Today, it operates as The Old Country Store, featuring museum displays that highlight its rich history.
Planning Your Visit
Long Island Bridge Campground is open from mid-May through mid-October, making it an ideal destination for spring and summer getaways. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season and holidays. The campground offers a range of pricing options to suit different budgets, with additional fees for guests and pets.
While the campground provides a peaceful setting, visitors should be aware of its policies to ensure a pleasant experience for all. These include quiet hours from 10 PM to 8 AM, restrictions on tent setups on trailer sites, and guidelines for campfires and pet management. It’s advisable to review the campground’s rules and regulations before arrival to ensure compliance and a smooth stay.
The Peace River, once a border between the Dane-zaa and Cree Nations, flows through northern British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. Road trippers make the journey to the Peace River region for once-in-a-lifetime experiences like whitewater rafting, ice fishing, wildlife spotting, and helicopter tours. Here in the Northern Rockies, even the view from the putting green is spectacular.
The trip starts in Edmonton and proceeds north — click on the numbered icon to follow the itinerary.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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:
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Huddle up, RV travelers. You’re in an excellent position to make a tailgating play.
That’s right — you’ve got your kitchen, your fridge, your grill ready for outside setup, chairs in the storage bays or the car or truck, and the “necessary” right inside your door — no waiting in lines for the porta-potty.
So, where to go? Most fans of a particular team will, of course, head to their own stadium and join other sports fans. That’s a given.
Photo: Andrik Langfield
But other RVers are just looking for the best party, regardless of location — and their homes-on-wheels allow them to try the best of the best from coast to coast. So pack up the beverages, the burgers, brats, steaks, chicken — whatever your favorites are — and hit the road.
Currently, it’s baseball season, and America’s favorite pastime has its own tailgating scene. Some Major League clubs roll out the red carpet for fans seeking pre-game party fun. The Atlanta Braves are among the organizations that have established designated tailgating areas for fans to join like-minded revelers for food and fun before the first pitch.
But football is where the real tailgating action unfolds, and it’s never too early to reserve a spot at a campground near your favorite team’s home turf (the first National Football League preseason game kicks off in July). Check out the following all-stars in the tailgating field:
Mile High Fun
We’ve tailgated in Denver’s Empower Field at Mile High — Go Broncos! And we have to say these orange-clad fans do tailgate parties proud. We formerly lived up in Breckenridge, Colorado, and just had to drive down the “hill” to join friends at their motorhome in a long-held spot in a parking lot set up for RV tailgating. They’ve even won some tailgating awards for their set-up, complete with turkey fryers, smokers, and multiple grills.
Pikes Peak Pats Fan Club tailgate party in Broncos territory before Denver plays New England. Photo: Greg & Sheryl
The folks at Tailgater Magazine — yes, it exists — agree with us, ranking Mile High as Number 4 on their list of top tailgating spots. The magazine mentions that parties there start as early as 8 a.m. on game day.
Bills, Browns, and Saints Host Topflight Tailgating
Tailgater Magazine rated Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, NY, as the best tailgating experience in the NFL. Tailgater points out that fans of the NFL’s Bills really know how to throw a fiesta — they party harder and huddle closer to keep warm— what with the area’s infamous icy weather. Fortunately, you’ll find relief in the Buffalo wings, which get top billing here — no big surprise.
Cleveland Browns fans during a tailgating celebration. Photo: Erik Drost
Huntington Bank Field (formerly First Energy Stadium) in Cleveland comes in at second place. Beer can chicken is a fan favorite. Watch a rousing game of Thunderstruck, which evidently involves downing some of the suds that weren’t used in steaming the chicken.
The party outside the Caesars Superdome (formerly Mercedes Benz Superdome) in New Orleans is the magazine’s third-highest-ranked pre-game tailgate party. Because up to 80,000 fans can fit into the Dome, there are a lot of people to party in the vast plaza outdoors. You may not have to cook your own food, as the plaza is home to clubs, restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
Saints fans celebrate victory. Photo: USMC
Pittsburgh Pride and Packer Parties
We’ve already shouted out Mile High as Number Four, and coming in at Number Five was Acrisure Stadium (formerly Heinz Field) in Pittsburgh. Steelers fans are high on energy (and maybe beverages?), and Tailgater says it can seem as though the entire city has turned out to support the team. Cookouts start early and end late. Be sure to bring your yellow towel and wave it proudly.
A Steelers fan. Photo: Davey Nin
There’s speculation the word tailgating may even have started at the Number Six placeholder, Green Bay’s Lambeau Field, the legendary home of the Packers. Everyone is welcome to join a tailgate at Lambeau — and you don’t even need to wear a spongy cheese wedge on your head. At the Tundra Tailgate Zone, Green Bay can rival Buffalo for cold weather — fans can even watch the game on huge screens while munching hearty Midwestern food, sipping beer, and listening to music. Brats are high on the menu.
Soldier Field in Chicago took the seventh spot in the rankings — the Tailgater Magazine folks are not deterred by cold weather, and neither, it seems, are the fans in these northern cities. The Bears’ home turf is touted as a good option for those looking for a more family-friendly option for tailgating parties.
Photo: Kelsey Todd
Soldier Field is called out as a must if you’re looking for iconic food — including those famous Chicago-style Hot Dogs!
Number Eight is another chilly one, but at Gillette Stadium in Boston the party goes on even during blizzards. The good news is there are always steaming bowls of Clam Chowder available along with other seafood and warming beverages.
BBQ in Houston, Cuban Cuisine in Miami
Number Nine enjoys much warmer weather — especially since Houston’s NRG Stadium has a retractable roof. In Texas, it’s all about the barbecue, and the tailgate party in Houston is no exception. The aromas alone will make you hungry as smokers start blazing early and remain burning even after the final whistle. Tailgater magazine says this is the place to be if you’re a party animal and/or a lover of barbecue.
Photo: Denis Agati
The food is also a star at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium — which rounds out the Top Ten Tailgate spots. And, as in Houston, it’s the food that stands out in the parking lot. But in Miami, it’s Cuban food that shines — Cuban sliders, Grilled chicken with rice and beans, smoked pork loin, plantains, and empanadas are sure to get your mouth watering. Tailgater says the Miami fans are among the friendliest, most welcoming in the NFL — and that tailgating in Miami is less crowded and more relaxed. It’s also warmer.
So, pick your vibe, pick your city or stadium, pack up the RV, and head to a Tailgate party — or two or three or the entire Top Ten! It’s a long season, after all. Let us know your personal favorites!
Nestled on beautiful Catawba in Port Clinton, Ohio, Cedarlane RV Resort is the ultimate destination for RV travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and family fun. Located in the heart of Ohio’s Vacationland, this full-service resort offers easy access to the best attractions around Lake Erie, making it the ideal base for your next getaway.
Photo courtesy of Cedarlane RV Resort
Prime Location Near Top Attractions
Cedarlane RV Resort is just minutes away from some of Ohio’s most popular destinations. Thrill-seekers will love the world-famous Cedar Point, known for its heart-pounding roller coasters and family-friendly rides. For indoor water fun, head to Kalahari Resort’s indoor waterpark, one of the largest in the U.S. If wildlife and nature are more your style, explore the African Safari Wildlife Park or hop on a ferry to visit the Lake Erie Islands, including the lively Put-in-Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the world-class walleye and perch fishing on Lake Erie, plus the boating, hiking, and sightseeing opportunities galore.
A Premier RV Resort
Cedarlane RV Resort offers 317 mature sites, including 72 transient sites for short-term stays, 240 seasonal sites, and 5 park model and cabin rentals available for daily, weekly, or monthly stays. Whether you’re traveling in a motorhome or RV, you’ll enjoy 30/50 amp electric, water, available sewer hookups, and free Wi-Fi to ensure a comfortable stay. Note that the resort is available to RVs and motorhomes only, with no tent camping available.
Photo courtesy of Cedarlane RV Resort
Resort Amenities for the Whole Family
Cedarlane RV Resort is designed to provide fun and relaxation for the whole family. The resort features three heated pools and an interactive splash pad perfect for little ones. For those looking to stay active, there’s a brand-new pickleball court, sports courts, and playgrounds. Your furry friends will love the two dog runs where they can play and run free. On weekends, the resort offers a variety of musical entertainment, kid’s activities, and food trucks, so you’ll always find something to do.
Photo courtesy of Cedarlane RV Resort
The resort is known for its clean restrooms, top-notch service, and family-friendly atmosphere that has made it a favorite for visitors year after year. Whether you’re spending the day exploring or relaxing on-site, you’ll appreciate the clean, comfortable, and welcoming environment.
Pickleball court. Photo courtesy of Cedarlane RV Resort.
Book Your Stay Today
With its unbeatable location, fantastic amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere, Cedarlane RV Resort is the perfect place to make lasting memories with loved ones on Lake Erie. But don’t wait too long to book — this top-rated resort fills up quickly, especially during the peak summer season and holidays, including a spooky Halloween weekend! Whether you’re in town for a weekend of adventure or a longer vacation, Cedarlane offers the perfect home base for your Lake Erie getaway.
Photo courtesy of Cedarlane RV Resort
Ready to experience it all? Book your stay at Cedarlane RV Resort today and start planning your perfect vacation in Ohio’s Vacationland!
Whether you’re an avid RVer, someone new to the lifestyle, or just interested in checking out the latest motorhomes and travel trailers, attending an RV show can be a lot of fun. After all, RV expos are a great place to see the newest vehicles firsthand, compare them to one another, and decide which models most fit your needs. You’ll also get the chance to explore the latest design innovations and industry trends, while chatting with knowledgeable sales staff and brand ambassadors.
On the other hand, if you’ve never been to an RV show before, it can all be a bit overwhelming. Even the smallest shows have rows and rows of vehicles on display, often requiring several hours just to get around to all of the models you want to see. Add in large crowds, a noisy environment, and overly enthusiastic salespeople, and it’s easy to get sensory overload.
But fear not! For the most part, RV shows are a celebration of RVing in all of its forms, with plenty to see and do. Beyond just wandering through dozens of new campers, you can also interact with vendors that support the lifestyle, attend educational seminars, and connect with fellow RVers, too. And if you happen to be in the market for a new RV, you can even save thousands of dollars off MSRP.
But before attending an RV show, we have a few tips that might help you get the most out of your time. Read on for more.
Photo Credit: McCaig/Getty
Why Do You Want to Attend an RV Show?
Before you go to an RV show, ask yourself why you want to attend? If you want to go just to see some new vehicles, you’ll likely have a great time checking out the latest models. That’s especially true if there are some high-end luxury coaches on display. In which case, you can attend the event at your leisure, wandering through the expo hall or outdoor grounds, checking out any RV that catches your attention. Your goal is probably to have fun, enjoy the event, and come away more informed about RVing in general.
On the other hand, if you’re attending an RV show with plans of potentially purchasing a new RV, you’ll want to approach the event in a very different way. While you’ll still have a good time checking out a range of vehicles, you’ll mostly want to stay focused on the models that appeal to you and fit within your budget. Chances are, that will keep you plenty busy, as there could be dozens of options to explore. Even if you’re interested in a few specific models, there will likely be multiple floor plans to check out and—depending on the size of the show—it could take more than one day to see them all.
If you’re at the show to buy a new rig, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. Not only will you be exploring a number of RVs, you’ll also be talking to salespeople as you haggle over the price and discuss potentially trading in your current RV. At larger RV expos, like the Florida RV SuperShow or the Hershey RV Show, that could potentially take two or three days. So, be patient and give yourself plenty of time to collect all of the information you need. After all, buying an RV is a significant investment, and you’ll want to feel comfortable that you’re making the best decision possible.
Photo Credit: Mike Watson Images/Getty
Dress Appropriately
When deciding which RV show to attend, check to see if the event is indoors, outdoors, or a mix of both. In each case, you’ll want to dress appropriately. That means cushy, supportive walking shoes and clothing that will keep you comfortable. Inside, the environmental conditions will be dry and accommodating, so dress for the season. If the show takes place outside, check the weather conditions and dress for the expected temperatures. If rain is in the forecast, bring an umbrella or rain jacket, because the show will go on even if Mother Nature isn’t as accommodating as she could be.
Make a Plan
Once again, if you’re attending the show without any intentions of buying an RV, you can feel free to wander around as you see fit. But if you are looking to purchase a new vehicle, it makes sense to come up with a plan ahead of time. This will help you use your time more efficiently, allowing you to stay focused on interacting with the brands you are interested in, while checking out the RVs that most meet your needs and budget.
Visit the website for the show a few days before you plan to attend. The site should have the hours that the show is open for each day of the event, and it will also list all of the brands and manufacturers who will be on hand. Some expos will even provide a map of where those exhibitors are located at the show, making it easy to track them down once you get there. This will help you make the most of your time, potentially keeping you from crisscrossing the expo grounds multiple times in search of a specific manufacturer. By carefully plotting out where each brand you want to visit is located, you can avoid wasting time by wandering aimlessly.
If you know the type of RV that you’re interested in—motorized vs. towable, for instance—you can further narrow down which brands and models are of interest before you arrive at the show. Check out the manufacturer websites to research the options that most make sense for your needs. You can further refine that search based on your budget, but keep in mind that you may be able to stretch your dollar further at the show. Many dealers are willing to price their models substantially lower at an RV expo as they look to move inventory while connecting with an engaged audience.
Photo Credit: welcomia/Getty
Come Prepared
You can make the most of your time at the expo by being as prepared as possible. That means bringing all of the notes from your pre-show plan, including which manufacturers and models you most want to see. But it also includes having the information about your current RV close at hand, including make, model, floor plan, optional add-ons, and so on. This will speed things along if you are trading in that vehicle, and help the sales staff get you the best deal possible.
On that note, if you are trading in an RV, it also helps to have a good sense of the value of that vehicle ahead of time. Do some research online to see what your current model sells for at used RV sites or when buying directly from an owner. Some dealers offer tools to assist with that process, providing trade-in values for a wide range of vehicles. This can be helpful when attending an RV show, as you’ll have a better sense of your current rig’s worth. If you’re not happy with a trade-in offer from one dealer, see what you can get elsewhere or even consider selling it yourself.
Being prepared also means coming to the show with a notebook and pen—or a mobile device—so you can take notes. You’ll be seeing a lot of RVs and it can be incredibly overwhelming at times, with specific models sometimes blurring together in your brain. That’s why we prefer using our smartphone or a tablet, as you can not only take notes, but easily add photos, too. This will help you keep track of the vehicles that interest you the most, allowing you to come back to explore them further later in the day. It’ll also help you to eliminate models that may not fit your needs, helping you to further whittle down your choices.
Spend Time in Your Top Choices
Once you’ve narrowed your list of potential candidates for your next RV, spend some time in each model. Sit, relax, soak up the atmosphere, and thoroughly explore the floor plan. Take note of the things you like and don’t like about the specific models, and consider what each brings to the table. Don’t be afraid to hang out in the rig for as long as you like. This is a major purchase, and you want to make sure you’re making the right choice for you and your family.
Photo Credit: no_limit_pictures/Getty
Be Ready to Wheel and Deal
After you’ve picked out a favorite model or two, it’s time to chat with a salesperson. Not only will these people be very helpful in answering any questions you have about an RV, they’ll likely be the ones taking you through the sales process once you’re ready to buy. At some shows, that process can involve some haggling on price, while other events will simply have “final pricing” already displayed on the vehicle. But the discussion will also include potential optional add-ons, trade-in pricing, delivery charges, financing options, and so on. In other words, it can take some time to figure out the final cost of the RV, often requiring some back and forth with the salesperson, even if haggling isn’t involved.
Keep in mind, until you’ve signed on the dotted line, you’re not committed to purchasing any RV. You can always take the offer sheet with you and think about it over lunch or even overnight. You can even chat with other dealers and manufacturers to see if they can match or beat the deal, allowing you to find the best all-around price possible. Always take your time and consider all of your options. When you’re ready, the sales staff will be more than willing to help you finalize the purchase.
Image: Bruce Challgren
Have Fun!
Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when attending an RV show is to have fun. That can be challenging sometimes, especially if you’re there to purchase a new camper and have spent all day wandering the aisles in search of the perfect model. But don’t let that stress you out so much that you don’t enjoy the event. After all, you are there to find a vehicle that will make your life more enjoyable. Enjoy the food, attend a seminar, catch some live music, chat with RV manufacturers, tour motorhomes and fifth-wheels that aren’t in your price range—all of that can be incredibly enjoyable, so savor it while you can.
And of course, many big RV shows actually have camping on—or near—the premises, allowing you to really immerse yourself in the expo experience. That’s a great way to meet other attendees, swap notes on your favorite vehicles, and more. If you have the time and inclination, bring your current rig and make a weekend out of the experience.
That’s it! Now go find an RV show near you and start planning your visit. We have a list of popular options that you can read up on here.
Nestled along Ohio’s scenic Portage River and close to the iconic Lake Erie, The Resort at Erie Landing offers an all-inclusive camping experience where guests can find adventure, relaxation, and entertainment in one place. Whether you’re a camping enthusiast or a first-timer, Erie Landing has established itself as a destination within a destination, combining convenience, comfort, and excitement for all ages.
Expanding to 589 Sites in 2025
The Resort at Erie Landing is thrilled to announce its expansion to 589 camping sites in 2025! This growth for the Ohio-based resort reflects the demand for a place that combines the natural beauty of Lake Erie with modern amenities and entertainment. The increase in sites means more options for families, groups, and solo travelers to enjoy their time at the resort without compromising on space or comfort.
Water obstacle course. Photo courtesy of The Resort at Erie Landing.
Full Activity Schedule
One of Erie Landing’s highlights is the robust activity schedule that keeps guests entertained throughout their stay. With both outdoor and indoor options, there’s something for everyone:
Outdoor Fun: The resort’s expansive grounds offer paddle boats, pedal karts, and even a water obstacle course for those ready to dive into the adventure.
Sports and Recreation: Basketball, pickleball, and frisbee golf are just a few of the options on-site, allowing guests to get active while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Children’s Playground: Families will appreciate the thoughtfully designed playground, providing young guests with hours of fun.
Photo courtesy of The Resort at Erie Landing.
Beer & Wine Tastings
For those looking to unwind, the resort offers regular beer and wine tastings. These events feature selections that are perfect for an evening of socializing or a quiet moment by the fire pit. By incorporating locally sourced and seasonal varieties, Erie Landing creates an experience that delights the palate and supports regional flavors.
Live Music and Entertainment
No weekend is complete without live music at Erie Landing! The campground’s weekend performances add to the vibrant atmosphere, allowing guests to experience local talent under the stars. From acoustic sets to lively bands, each performance enriches the campground’s welcoming vibe and creates lasting memories.
Photo courtesy of The Resort at Erie Landing.
Exceptional Amenities
Alongside its entertainment, Erie Landing boasts an array of amenities, ensuring that every guest has access to what they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From an indoor pool and arcade to on-site laundry and a convenience store, Erie Landing caters to every detail. The resort even has a marina, adding a touch of waterfront luxury for those looking to explore Lake Erie by boat or kayak.
Erie Landing combines the best of natural beauty, recreational variety, and community-oriented entertainment, making it the ultimate camping experience near Lake Erie. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that has something for everyone!
