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.
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.
Answer the call of the surf and seagulls this summer. Get a healthy dose of beach life at the following Thousand Trails campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts, which treat guests to cool sea breezes, sweeping views of the ocean, and water recreation that ranges from surfing to sailing.
From quaint beach towns to bustling tourism resorts, these locations put campers in top areas for the warm weather season. After a day of frolicking in the surf and sun, enjoy the amenities found only at ThousandTrails.com, which has more than 200 high-quality RV resorts across the United States.
Always keep safety in mind. Pack plenty of water and sunscreen on your outings and heed the posted warnings about potential danger. Novice boaters or paddlers shouldn’t hit the water without supervision.
Now go and have fun at the beach!
Photo courtesy of Fiesta Key RV Resort and Marina.
Fiesta Key RV Resort and Marina, Florida
Have you ever wanted to set up camp on a tropical island of your own? If you’re willing to share this beach location with other campers who share your interests, Fiesta Key RV Resort and Marina in the Florida Keys can help turn your fantasy into a reality. The Good Sam Park is located on a 28-acre island just off the Overseas Highway, approximately 18 miles north of Marathon Key and 29 miles southwest of Key Largo. Visitors can enjoy delectable cocktails at the Tiki Bar & Cantina Restaurant when they’re not swimming or snorkeling at a short distance from their home base. Take a stroll along the neighboring beach or unwind at your location while seeing breathtaking sunrises over the Atlantic and breathtaking sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
What’s Nearby: Every island in the Florida Keys chain is a unique treasure for travelers. Ecotourists travel south along the Overseas Highway to Marathon Key, where they can visit the Dolphin Research Center to learn about fascinating mammals. Additionally, on Marathon, the Turtle Hospital saves endangered hatchlings and aids in the recovery of injured animals. Witness the clumsy first steps of newborn turtles into the sea by taking a tour. Continue south and end your tropical journey at Key West, where bars and restaurants continue to hum with the eccentric atmosphere that drew Tennessee Williams and Ernest Hemingway.
Photo courtesy of Emerald Isle RV Resort
Emerald Isle RV Resort, North Carolina
Sink your feet in the silky sands of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast while staying at Emerald Isle RV Resort, formerly Holiday Trav-L-Park Campground. Water fun is key at this major resort, with direct beach access, along with a swimming pool and splash pad. With 284 total spaces, including big rig sites and pull-through sites, along with tent sites, the park accommodates all types of travelers. Each space has a table and trash pickup.
Campers can reach the beach via three access points, two of which are handicapped accessible. When adventurers aren’t frolicking on the sand and surf, they can get refreshments at the resort’s snack and drink bar on the beach (open from Memorial Day to Labor Day). Back at the resort, campers can indulge in the coffee and bagel shop or take a spin around the go-kart track. Regular performances by bands keep the party going, and lovers of great food and beverages can visit the food trucks that park here or participate in wine tastings.
Clean bathhouses and convenient laundry facilities help campers take care of essential business.
The resort is open from March 17 to December 1.
A beach along the Bogue Banks. Photo: Gene Gallin.
What’s Nearby:Emerald Isle sits upon Bogue Banks, a 21-mile-long island that constitutes the bulk of the Crystal Coast, and which separates the Atlantic Ocean from Bogue Sound. The Banks are also home to the communities of Indian Beach, Salter Path, Pine Knoll Shores, and Atlantic Beach. At Pine Knoll Shores, those traveling with kids won’t want to miss the North Carolina Aquarium, which is home not only to an abundance of marine life (including favorites like sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles) but also to three intricately recreated famous shipwreck sites.
Photo courtesy of Oceanside RV Resort.
Oceanside RV Resort, California
Oceanside RV Resort is a gorgeous coastal getaway that offers the ideal combination of beach access with that laid-back Southern California attitude. It is conveniently located just north of San Diego. With roomy campsites, clean amenities, and convenient access to the Pacific Ocean, the resort boasts a dazzling pool and a fully furnished barbecue area. The setting is ideal for big parties, creating new memories, and taking in sunsets after a day in the water.
Mini golf, cornhole, billiards, arcade games, a putting green with a Master’s motif, and even bike and boogie board rentals compete for your attention. Oceanside RV Resort offers a quaint dog park for pet owners to ensure their furry, four-legged guests have a comfortable stay in Southern California.
What’s Nearby: When not surfing, visitors may easily enjoy everything the Southern California region has to offer by traveling into the city or neighboring coastal towns, thanks to the resort’s proximity to local transportation, which includes train and bus services. Experience the ease of San Diego’s attractions — from SeaWorld to iconic beaches to the Gas Lamp Quarter — and return to a tranquil setting that lets you rest and rejuvenate.
Photo courtesy of Carolina Shores RV Resort.
Carolina Shores RV Resort, South Carolina
Occupying 80 oceanfront acres in the fun-filled town of Myrtle Beach, Carolina Shores RV Resort is an ideal seaside camping destination. Guests can choose from oceanfront sites to fully furnished rental options that include cottages. Although Myrtle Beach beckons, campers will find plenty of reasons to stay put, from the swimming pool to the Lazy River to nearby beach access.
Families will relish the mini golf and arcade, and many activities will engage campers of all ages. Choose from fishing tournaments, karaoke, outdoor movies, and children’s programs during your stay. The resort boasts 467 full-hookup sites with 30- and 50-amp power. Pets are welcome at the resort, which has laundry facilities, a snack bar, restrooms and showers, and LP gas.
The bustling boardwalk of Myrtle Beach. Photo: Drew Perales
What’s Nearby:Myrtle Beach is all about good times, from a boardwalk bustling with entertainment to busy beaches and golf courses. Myrtle Beach is a top travel destination for all types of tourists because of its Vegas-style shows, vibrant nightlife, countless shopping opportunities, and well-known seafood restaurants.
Photo courtesy of White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort.
White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort, North Carolina
On the banks of the White Oak River, White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort sits on the Crystal Coast, surrounded by lush coastal greenery. This tranquil getaway connects guests with nature and is a launching pad to surrounding attractions.
New upgrades make this summer the best time to visit! Guests can check out a brand-new pool, spacious deck, and kiddie pool for the little ones. There is also a new pool house for extra comfort and convenience. The new covered pavilion will be your go-to summer gathering spot.
Other amenities include volleyball and basketball courts, a picnic and barbecue area, and a store for vital supplies. Laundry facilities, mobile sewer service, and a welcoming pet policy add to the experience. Each of the 475 spaces enjoys lots of room for slideouts, with a table at each side.
The waterfront of Wilmington, North Carolina. Photo: Josh Austin
What’s Nearby: White Oak Shores’ location on the river makes it ideal for boating and fishing. Anglers can drop lines for hefty speckled trout, red drum, and flounder. A short drive takes travelers to Wilmington to see the Battleship North Carolina, a massive World War II-era vessel that fought in the Pacific Theater. Travelers can also take North Carolina Highway 58 to reach Emerald Isle and all of the recreation possibilities on the Atlantic Coast.
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.
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.
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.
