Tucked against the stunning Ruby Mountains in Elko, Nevada, Iron Horse RV Resort blends the comforts of modern living with the rugged charm of an Old West escape. Whether you roll in with a motorhome or book one of its cozy cottages, you’ll find yourself pampered amidst breathtaking vistas and surrounded by fascinating local attractions.
A Home Away from Home
With 45 spacious RV sites equipped with full 30/50-amp hookups — including pull-through options — Iron Horse warmly welcomes even the largest RVs. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, with lush grass and mature greenery offering a serene contrast to the surrounding high desert.
Photo: Iron Horse RV Resort
For those who prefer to travel light, there are 15 fully furnished cottages, complete with kitchens, TV/DVD setups, and weekly housekeeping.
Resort-Style Perks
Iron Horse doesn’t skimp on creature comforts. Enjoy the newly renovated outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi, a fun and refreshing kickoff to any adventure. Families travel light knowing there’s a playground, while four-legged companions romp safely in the spacious dog park. Need to clean up or grab a snack? The resort offers a clubhouse with showers, laundry, meeting spaces, and a convenient general store.
Photo: Iron Horse RV Resort
Bonus Access to Hilton-Style Amenities
One of Iron Horse’s most delightful perks: guests can access the adjoining Shutters Hotel Elko — formerly a Hilton Garden Inn — for an indoor pool, fitness center, business center, and on-site dining at The Ruby Restaurant, often with special discounts.
The Great Outdoors at Your Doorstep
Situated in “the Last Real Cowtown in the American West,” Iron Horse serves as the perfect launchpad for a wide array of local adventures:
Photo: Bobby/Unsplash
Historical and Ghost-Town Tours: Step back in time with guided tours through genuine Wild West relics and abandoned mining communities.
Nature and Outdoor Fun: Hike rugged trails, camp under star-studded skies, go ATV touring or snowmobiling in the Ruby Mountains, Coal Mine Canyon, or Maggie Creek.
Photo: Dane Deaner
Fishing and Wildlife: Cast a line for trout, bass, perch, or catfish in nearby lakes and streams, or scan the landscape for birds and native fauna.
According to recent travelers, Iron Horse consistently exceeds expectations. One GoodSam.com reviewer praised the “large sites, grass, very clean… super easy check-in,” calling it “the best one we stayed at” after traveling through 14 states. Another shared how well-kept everything was — from the concrete patios to the picnic setups and laundry facilities.
True to its name, Gone Fishing RV Resort in Gordonville, Texas, embraces the most carefree aspects of camping. With only 34 RV sites, Gone Fishing immerses campers in an intimate setting where recreation is just a stroll away, within walking distance of Lake Texoma. Spend a day relaxing in an ample site or explore the many surrounding attractions.
Photo: Gone Fishing RV Resort
Relax in Nature
With lush terrain and landscaped campgrounds, Gone Fishing goes to great lengths to maintain a secure, relaxing environment. The premises are fenced and gated, security cameras keep guests protected, and onsite management responds to campers’ needs. Convenience is key here, with a convenience store, newly updated laundry room with new washers and dryers, a dump station, hot showers, and luxurious bathrooms. Propane and ice can be purchased here as well.
Showers at Gone Fishing RV Resort
Brought a furry traveling companion? The park welcomes canines with a dog walk area and a dog run.
Camping Comfort
The roomy full-hookup sites at Gone Fishing give campers plenty of elbow room. Powered by 30- and 50-amp electricity, each site features a table, and 19 of the sites are pull-through. There’s plenty of room for slideouts, and campers can enjoy Wi-Fi from their RVs.
Also available are apartments overlooking Lake Texoma.
Photo: Gone Fishing RV Resort
Fun on the Lake
Just 1,400 feet to the north of the resort, Lake Texoma has a surface area of 139 square miles, making it the largest lake in Texas in terms of footprint. Straddling the border between Oklahoma and Texas, the lake is stocked with striped bass, and its robust population gives anglers lots of opportunity to haul in hefty catches. The striped bass record is 35.12 pounds. You’ll also discover lots of crappies and catfish.
Gone Fishing RV Resort accommodates folks who want to play on the water with some fantastic rentals, including a Sea Doo Trixx, a Seadoo Spark Jetski, a Yamaha Boat, and a Sun-Tracker Bass Buggy 18DLX Pontoon boat. Gone Fishing staff members can meet guests at the dock to arrange the rental. In addition, the boat ramp is only 1,500 feet from Gone Fishing on Highway 377. The resort offers complimentary ramp passes for daily use.
Motoring across Lake Texoma. Photo: Gone Fishing RV Resort
Wonderful Wilderness
Close to Gordanville, several exciting attractions vie for your attention. At the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, a wide variety of birds and other animals inhabit vibrant marshes. Hunters can visit the Cross Timbers Wildlife Management Area, encompassing more than 10,000 acres of wildlife habitat in Oklahoma’s Love County. Stalk white-tailed deer, Rio Grande turkeys, and other fur-bearing animals among the oaks, hickory, and mid-tall native prairie grasses. At award-winning Frank Buck Zoo in nearby Gainesville, visitors can marvel at flamingos, giraffes, pygmy goats, and other colorful beasts.
In the town of Gordanville, you’ll find restaurants for every taste, from barbecue to Mexican food to seafood.
WinStar World Casino. Photo: Kym Koch Thompson
Let it Roll
Gaming enthusiasts will find ample casinos for high-stakes action. Just across the bridge from Gone Fishing RV Resort, the MegaStar Casino treats patrons to 600 electronic gaming machines, a restaurant, and a full bar. Expand your gaming possibilities at Chocktaw Casino in nearby Durant, with 7,400 slot machines, table games, a race book, and entertainment. In nearby Thackerfill, the Winstar Casino, considered the world’s biggest casino, has a mile of gaming floor, poker tournaments, table games, slot machines, and several restaurants, including nine globally themed pizzas.
Tucked into the scenic hills just minutes from Temecula Wine Country, Pechanga RV Resort is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and California sunshine. With 200 spacious sites nestled beneath shady trees, guests are welcomed into a relaxing retreat. Full-hookup, paved sites offer ample room to settle in, while deluxe pull-through options come complete with a picnic table, cozy gazebo, and barbecue grill — ideal for alfresco meals under the stars.
Photo: Pechanga RV Resort
Take a dip in the inviting pool, freshen up in the spotless showers, or gather in one of the well-appointed clubhouses. Need to refuel or grab a quick snack? The nearby Pechanga gas station and mini-mart have you covered.
With golf and casino action nearby, it’s easy to understand why this park, accessible from Interstate 15, enjoys a perfect 10/10*/10 Good Sam rating.
Photo: Pechanga RV Resort
Casino Action Just a Shuttle Ride Away
The excitement doesn’t stop at the campground. Hop on the free shuttle and head to Pechanga Resort Casino, where over 200,000 square feet of smoke-free gaming space awaits. Whether you’re spinning slots, playing blackjack, or catching a concert from big names like TLC, Shaggy, or Gary Numan, it’s easy to fill your evenings with unforgettable moments.
Photo: Worrell
Just next door, golfers can tee off at Journey at Pechanga, a stunning par-72, links-style course surrounded by rolling hills and wine country views. After your round, kick back at Journey’s End Restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or a cold drink, then browse one of the largest golf pro shops in California.
Photo: Pechanga RV Resort
Home Base with Heart
The resort caters to all kinds of RV travelers, from weekend wanderers to seasoned road warriors. Choose from Chairman sites with fire pits and gazebos, Buddy sites designed for two rigs traveling together, along with a variety of pull-through and back-in sites. Clean restrooms and 24-hour laundry, a fenced dog park for four-legged companions, Wi-Fi access, and an on-site cocktail lounge ensure your stay is as comfortable as it is convenient.
Photo: Pechanga RV Resort
Savor the Flavors of Temecula
Just beyond the resort, Temecula Valley unfolds with charm, flavor, and fun. Take a sunrise ride in a hot air balloon, sip your way through more than 40 award-winning wineries, or indulge in a little retail therapy and small-town charm in Old Town Temecula. The region’s microclimate — sunny days, cool ocean breezes, and crisp nights — is perfect for producing vibrant, flavorful wines.
Looking for a few tasting room favorites? Several vintners offer gourmet seasonal dishes in a gorgeous vineyard setting, while others keep the vibe party five alive with weekend music. Visitors can even arrange for car tours of wine country, letting someone else do the driving while they sip fine vintages.
Photo: Jainam Sheth.
Lake Adventures and Scenic Escapes
Anglers will feel right at home at Vail Lake, a top spot for largemouth bass, or Diamond Valley Lake, where you can cast for rainbow trout, catfish, and panfish. Want to get on the water? Rent a boat and cruise to the lake’s west end, or cheer on competitors during the National Bass West Tournament.
Nature lovers can explore more than 100 miles of bike trails that snake through lush vineyards and expansive countryside. For breathtaking views, hike the easy trails at Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, or go deeper into the Cleveland National Forest, where Tenaja Falls and Dripping Springs Trail offer spectacular vistas. Bird watchers should head to Lake Skinner Recreation Area, a peaceful haven for spotting owls, herons, and hawks.
Next year, America’s mother road reaches a significant milestone: Route 66 turns 100 years old, and travelers from across the continent may be tempted to retrace the iconic stops of this fabled thoroughfare, which stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, California.
Few states showcase this highway better than Illinois, with long, unbroken stretches of the route punctuated by roadside attractions that evoke the spirit of 20th-century travel. So buckle up and prepare to travel back in time to the most cherished strip of asphalt in the Illinois.
Angel Winds RV Resort in western Washington treats travelers to a blend of natural beauty and sophisticated amenities that you won’t find anywhere else. Right from check‑in, guests step into a grand clubhouse reminiscent of a lodge in the National Parks—timbered ceilings, and floor‑to‑ceiling windows that bring the outdoors inside.
Inside, you’ll find a heated year‑round indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a recreation room stocked with pool and other fun table games. A well-appointed room dedicated to group events is available for rent.
Photo: Angel of the Winds RV Resort.
A convenience store on-site means you can grab last‑minute supplies without having to leave the Arlington-based resort. This new park truly lives up to its 10/10*/10 Good Sam rating. Open year-round, Angel Winds RV Resort is ideal for all seasons.
Big Sites
Choose from 180 sites, all boasting full hookups with 30- and 50‑amp power. The room sites accommodate slideouts, and each has a picnic table. No RV? No problem. The park’s luxurious yurts are available for rent year-round.
Photo: Angel of the Winds RV Resort.
Beyond the clubhouse, the resort spreads out into a world of activities, including a one‑acre off‑leash dog park; mini‑golf, pickleball courts, playground with a slide; BBQ and picnic shelters, plus seven community fire pits. Check out the local population at the wildlife viewing area. There’s also a one‑mile interpretive walking trail winding through the property.
If you’re planning a multi‑day stay, there’s no shortage of things to keep the whole family entertained.
True to its name, the resort is literally across the road from the Angel of the Winds Casino and Hotel. Guests can hop on the complimentary shuttle, which runs every half hour, to enjoy gaming, bowling, dining, or catch a show.
Yurt life. Photo: Angel of the Winds RV Resort.
Around Town and Beyond
Tucked between the North Cascades and Puget Sound, Arlington, Washington, is the kind of small town that surprises you in all the right ways. Just an hour north of Seattle, this charming community blends classic Americana with Pacific Northwest wilderness — and makes for a perfect weekend escape.
Start your adventure strolling through historic downtown Arlington, where mom-and-pop shops, cozy cafes, and colorful murals give the town an irresistible Main Street vibe. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, browse the antique stores, or pop into Moe’s on Olympic for a laid-back lunch with locals.
For a breath of fresh air, head just outside town to the Stillaguamish River for kayaking, tubing, or casting a line. Nearby Centennial Trail, a 30-mile paved path, is ideal for biking or strolling beneath the evergreens. If you’re here in summer, don’t miss the Arlington Street Fair or a Friday night at the farmers market, where everything from berries to beeswax candles is on offer.
Kids (and kids at heart) will love the Outback Kangaroo Farm, where, yes, you can meet a wallaby. And just down the road, you’ll find the funky town of Darrington, gateway to Glacier Peak and some of Washington’s most jaw-dropping alpine trails.
Casino RV resorts offer travelers the best of both worlds: outdoor camping and indoor gaming.
An added bonus may be entertainment, often by top-notch artists who visit casino venues. These performers range from magicians to comedians to major musical acts.
Wild in Washington
Northern Quest RV Resort in Spokane, Washington, is one such resort. The RV park is Good Sam 10/10*/10 rated, and the casino has fun for the whole family. There is even an interactive arcade. Kids Quest has hourly childcare for children ages 2 ½ to 12, supervised by trained childcare experts.
La Rive Spa at Northern Quest has been recognized by locals as one of the top amenities in the Spokane community.
Northern Quest hosts top-name performers at concerts held outdoors at the 5,000-seat BECU arena. In addition, guests can get up close to some of the top touring musical and comedy artists in the country at Northern Quest’s state-of-the-art indoor Pend Oreille Pavilion.
Dining runs the gamut from casual quick bites to fine dining. The resort also boasts a movie theater and a golf course.
The RV Park offers 67 paved full hook-up sites and 18 luxury cottages. RVers have access to the Casino and all its amenities.
Tri-Cities Trifecta
After you’ve explored the Spokane area, head straight down I-90 and US 395 to the Tri-Cities area of Washington, where the cities of Richland, Pasco, and Kennewick sit in the midst of southeast Washington’s wine country.
Horn Rapids RV Resort – rated 10/10*/10 – offers outstanding hospitality and a home base to explore the area.
In addition to wineries and golf courses, the area is dotted with numerous small casinos. And a drive of 60-90 minutes takes gamers to Legends alcohol-free casino or to Wildhorse Casino in northern Oregon.
The Super Southwest: America’s Gaming Playground
Heading south to California, Tahoe Valley Campground in South Lake Tahoe offers camping among the tall pines of the Sierra Nevada mountains just a short jaunt from the Nevada border. Stay for a weekend or choose an annual or seasonal site from among the hundreds available. A short distance away, on the Nevada side, you can find casinos in places like Carson City and State Line.
This Thousand Trails resort has a pool, picnic area, playground, volleyball, basketball, a dog park, laundry, and hiking trails.
Thousand Trails Las Vegas is just six miles from the iconic “Strip.” Many sites are in the shade of old oak trees. Friendly activities include seasonal get-togethers, potluck meals, game nights, and movie nights.
For Casino lovers, Vegas, of course, is the Mother Lode with action downtown and on the Strip and casinos large and small.
Casino action is also available at Nevada hot spots such as Reno and Primm. Reno offers casino and gaming opportunities, while nearby Sparks is known for its family-friendly events and proximity to outdoor recreation. Primm, located along Interstate 15 and formerly called State Line (not to be confused with the town near Tahoe), gives travelers a gaming fix right at the California border.
Heated Action in the Heartland
And if you’re seeking gaming action in the Midwest, try a stay at Blackhawk Campground in Milton, Wisconsin. This family-friendly park has been making campers happy for more than 50 years. They have live entertainment, hayrides, arts and crafts, and movie nights — plus three nearby lakes and the Wisconsin Dells.
Close at hand, the Ho-Chunk Native American casino in the Dells offers a smoke-free gaming floor. It features more than 1,700 slot machines, 48 blackjack tables, and high-stakes bingo.
It’s hard to remember the cold days of winter as we approach the dog days of summer, and for much of the country, the dog days came early. Temperatures have risen to record levels seemingly everywhere. But after a few months, the Southwest spring will look and sound mighty good, with its early-season warmth, spring desert flowers, beckoning canyonlands, verdant golf courses, and Spring Training for Major League Baseball.
Indeed, while some of us shiver in the northern cold, many Southwestern RV Parks already reach full capacity. So, plan now and book early.
Desert flowers bloom in the spring. Photo: Andreas Vonlanthen
Springing into Outdoor Adventure
There is so much to see and do in the Southwest in the spring. Arizona and Nevada are at the center of the action for baseball fans and golfers. Desert explorers can add Utah’s canyonlands, New Mexico, and southwestern Colorado to their itineraries. Guided ATVing through spectacular landscapes in almost all Southwestern states.
A cactus league player slides into home. Photo: Kim Hyeseong
Play Ball!
Because of its friendly winter climate, the southwest is the perfect setting for Major League Baseball’s spring training and preseason competition. Major League ballplayers start arriving in Arizona about February 10. Several stadiums around Phoenix host the teams of The Cactus League – 15 MLB teams from the western half of the U.S. (East Coast teams form The Grapefruit League and head to Florida.)
The rookies, catchers, and pitchers arrive first and start their drills. Morning practice sessions are generally open to the public at no charge. As seasoned players arrive to hone their skills, practices remain open. The practices are casual, and fans often can talk with players and get souvenir hats and balls autographed. Games between the teams generally start around February 20 and run through March. Tickets are required for those games with seats ranging in price.
Southwest golf. Photo: Jason Pofahl
Great Time for Golf
If you prefer tee boxes, fairways, and greens to diamonds, you don’t have to travel far to find a golf course. Some of what sets Southwestern golf apart is that the game can generally be played year-round, and the scenery and design often appear part of another world.
Many courses blend into the natural desert setting and incorporate the natural topography of rock formations, gullies, and cacti into the course. The scenery can range from pine-covered mountain peaks —some still capped with snow in the spring — to brilliant red rock cliffs and canyons. The rough may be cacti-studded sand.
Photo: Don Stouder
In the rough, keep an eye out for snakes and be careful of the cacti’s spines. Some of the wildlife experiences are funny: We were playing a municipal course in Casa Grande several years ago and, if we weren’t quick enough to our balls, they kept disappearing. We would search and search, but no ball anywhere. It was getting to feel a bit spooky until we spotted a pack rat rolling golf balls into a burrow.
Fun for Adrenaline Junkies
If you prefer desert thrills to golf or baseball, the desert beckons. You can take your own ATV to many public lands, but numerous tour operators offer guided and self-guided ATV excursions. Popular areas include the Sonoran Desert and the Sedona and Verde valleys in Arizona; the areas around Moab and Bryce Canyon in Utah; and the Mojave Desert and ghost town tours near Las Vegas. In Colorado, visit the mountainous high desert regions outside Silverton, Ouray, Grand Junction, and Gunnison. And, in New Mexico, head to the Ruidoso or Red River areas or the Sangre de Cristo mountains.
Photo: Devon Janse Van Rensburg
Whatever your interest, these are among the Southwestern RV parks ready to welcome you and share their knowledge of the area:
Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve is San Diego County’s best-kept outdoor secret, and it’s perfect for an RV vacation. Located in Santee just northeast of the bustling city, this 190‑acre getaway centers around seven shimmering lakes, each alive with rainbow trout, catfish, bass, and bluegill — no state fishing license required, just a park permit from the General Store.
RV travelers can stay in one of 300 sites, with 83 full-hookup sites available. Each space has a picnic table, and there’s plenty of room for slideouts. Ten lakeside cabin/cottage rentals are available as well.
Photo: Rhalene Degraff.
Recreation abounds at Santee Lakes. Guests can enjoy a pool for swimming and hot tub for unwinding. Fishing and boating are welcome for campers on some of the lakes, and nature trails lead visitors to some of the beautiful views on the property. Take advantage of the many outdoor games available, and a playground gives kids a chance to blow off steam.
Restrooms and showers, RV supplies, and laundry facilities cater to guests. Firewood and ice are available as well at the campground, and a cocktail lounge serves as a watering hole for grownups.
Photo Courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Fun in the Sun
Guests don’t have to look far for recreation in this California getaway. Rent a pedal boat or kayak ($16–17/hour) and gently glide among the lake’s islands as ducks paddle alongside. The lakes invite peaceful exploration and easygoing family fun. Meanwhile, anglers can test their luck on Lakes 1–5 (open to day visitors) or Lakes 6–7, which are reserved for campers. The park keeps things fresh with seasonal trout stocks and even night‑fishing events—perfect for score‑chasing or unwinding under the stars.
Photo courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Hiking, Birdwatching & Family Fun
Follow over five miles of multi-use trails that weave through oak groves and wetlands, perfect for running, biking, or meandering strolls. Birders will delight at their finds: Santee Lakes is home to more than 200 species, from egrets to blue herons. You’ll also see plenty of ducks paddling about the lakes. Little ones—or brave climbers—will love Boulder Island’s rock formations, playgrounds (including a splash pad), and scent garden, offering endless discovery and shaded play.
Dine Alfresco
Pack a picnic or reserve a lakeside gazebo for family feasts overlooking the water. These tranquil outdoor settings are perfect for birthdays, small weddings, or just good times. For simpler bites, the Topwater Grill serves burgers, sausages, and kid-friendly fare, or grab snacks at the General Store.
Photo courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Events Galore
Santee Lakes’ calendar is packed with fun activities: fishing tournaments, holiday weekend specials, outdoor movies, and seasonal events light up the lakes. It’s a place where morning jogs meet twilight gatherings, and fire‑ring chats segue into marshmallow roasts.
Anglers will find lots to do here. Cast your lines for the Catfish Opener in April; haul in hefty catches for September’s Stockzilla, which features stock channel catfish; and hook hefty critters in November during the Trout Opener. Night fishing events are held during summer.
Prefer non-angling events? Work up the nerve to participate in the Halloween Spooktacular, featuring Trunk-or-Treat and other games; also in October, the Ladies at the Lake put on a Fall Sale with everything you need; and enjoy holiday illumination during the Lights at the Lakes Drive Thru Light Show in December.
Photo courtesy of Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve.
Open year-round, the park features wheelchair-friendly fishing piers, trails, and restrooms.
The park is also dog-friendly: On‑leash pups are welcome throughout the park, and campers can enjoy off‑leash play in designated areas.
Nearby Attraction
If you fancy a change of scenery, the Mission Trails Regional Park offers 42 miles of rugged hiking and scenic views. Or set your sights on Kumeyaay Lake Campground as an overflow option — just two miles away. And downtown San Diego’s attractions are only a 20‑minute drive when you’re ready to swap fishing for five-star dining and world-class entertainment.
Weaver’s Needle RV Resort puts visitors close to well-known Arizona landmarks. The renowned Superstitious Mountains, enshrouded in myth and renowned for their excellent trekking, are visible from the park. Phoenix, which is closer to the resort for people over 55, is less than 30 minutes away, and nearby are eateries, markets, fishing, boating, and hiking.
Guests can reserve a year-round stay or choose a short-term stay. No matter the kind of vacation you pick, the park’s many amenities keep guests comfortable during their visit.
Eye of the Needle
Without compromising comfort, Weaver’s Needle introduces visitors to the vast outdoors. There’s an ample paved pad at each location. Two hundred of the sites are all-weather, and each site includes space for patios and slideouts. There are two hundred full-hookup sites and overnight sites with Wi-Fi.
Photo courtesy of Weaver’s Needle RV Resort.
After settling in, visitors have a lot of choices throughout the park. After a long day of driving, visitors can relax in the jacuzzi and heated pool. Active tourists can slow down at the bocce ball or horseshoe pits, or hit one of the pickleball courts. Show off some tricks at the billiards table.
Guests can indulge in hobbies at Weaver’s Needle RV Resort. Take advantage of pottery and woodworking facilities, painting classes, and line dancing sessions. Join the chorus or take part in jam sessions to discover new musical possibilities. The hiking club, chair yoga, and water aerobics will guarantee visitors will receive a decent workout.
Apache Junction and Mesa
Close to the resort, Apache Junction and Mesa captivate tourists. Modern gems ranging from a thriving visual arts sector to delectable farm-to-table destinations may flourish beyond the breathtaking environment and local lore.
Goldfield Ghost Town in Apache Junction. Photo: Getty Images
Ghost Town in Goldfield
The renowned Apache Trail, which stretches 40 miles from Apache Junction to the Theodore Roosevelt Dam, combines thrilling outdoor activities with Wild West history. Travelers can explore re-created boom towns, fish in abundant lakes, and take in the expansive Sonoran Desert from a variety of vantage points. Additionally, you should tour Native American cliff dwellings in Tonto National Forest and take a picturesque riverboat trip on Canyon Lake.
Goldfield Ghost Town near Apache Junction features realistically built structures and Western attractions to recreate life in the Old West.
There’s another trail that winds across Mesa. The Fresh Foodie Trail offers 11 agritourism destinations where you may taste regional cuisine at wineries, olive farms, urban gardens, and other locations. Highlights include enjoying Arizona-style barbecue at Jalapeno Bucks and learning how to raise your own produce at True Garden.
Water Recreation at Your Fingertips
Boating, fishing, and a variety of water sports are made possible by three lakes and two rivers located immediately outside Mesa. To capture largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, throw a line into Roosevelt Lake, Saguaro Lake, or Apache Lake. Flick your pole into Canyon Lake to catch rainbow trout. All three lakes offer storage and camping facilities, as well as boat rentals. The Salt River, which flows through the Tonto National Forest and is the nearest river to the town, is a great place to go rafting and kayaking. Additionally popular is tubing, particularly throughout the spring and summer.
A bridge over Roosevelt Lake. Photo: Tom Gainor.
Roosevelt Dam
With its rocky mountains, enormous cactus, and lakes carved out of canyons, the Sonoran Desert has captivated outdoor enthusiasts for generations. With more than 29 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding paths, Usery Mountain Regional Park is an excellent place to begin your journey. These trails conclude with expansive vistas of the valley, so don’t forget your camera. While trails in San Tan Mountain Regional Park offer expansive views of the lower Sonoran Desert, those in Lost Dutchman State Park take you into the heart of the Tonto National Forest and Superstition Wilderness.
Top-tier Art Scene
Visit the Mesa Arts Center, the largest arts and entertainment center in the Southwest, to discover the city’s artistic side. Inside the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, you can see pieces by well-known artists or attend a comedy show or concert at one of the modern theaters. Additionally, the center offers workshops where you may make ceramics, paintings, and other crafts.
City of Phoenix downtown at night. Photo: Getty Images
Phoenix Entertainment
The greater Phoenix area deserves its moniker as the “Valley of the Sun” because it receives more than 325 days of sunshine annually. More than 20 municipalities, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, and Glendale, are part of the sunny region. Every enclave has its own unique style, so you can pick the one that’s best for you. Adventures in this region of the Sonoran Desert are extremely varied and even more thrilling, ranging from touring dozens of top-notch museums and reliving Wild West history to scaling rocky peaks and unwinding at opulent spas.
After cheering for your favorite sports teams all winter and spring, maybe it is time for some excitement in the world of motorsports.
Driving your RV to any of the varied events coming in mid-summer and fall can bring new ways to enjoy your home on wheels. Some events are fast, loud, and some are wild.
Photo: Chase McBride
NASCAR Cup Series and More
There are 20 NASCAR Cup Series races running from June 1 to October 12, finishing up at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
It’s too late for some of this year’s big spring events, but many of these require advanced planning and ticketing. So now is a great time to get ready for those.
A competitor in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb. Photo: Jason Miller.
One of the oldest motor racing events in the country is in Colorado at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Cars race almost 12.5 miles for a climb of 5,000 vertical feet. This year it is scheduled for Sunday, June 22. There are limited camping permits and cautions about moving locations. Tickets are available online.
October Revs Up
Charlotte Motor Speedway will host the NASCAR Series as the Bank of America Roval 400 on Sunday, October 5. The North Carolina raceway is home to summer and fall events ranging from truck racing to drag racing. Camping is available at the 380-site Good Sam RV park adjacent to the race track.
Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta hosts the Motul Le Mans, a multi-day event featuring European-style sports cars, October 8-11. Racing events culminate with a 10-hour championship race. The 2.54-mile track has 12 turns and room for some limited camping.
Formula One action. Photo: Stephen Kidd.
Formula 1 racing has two events: the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas on October 19 in Austin, Texas. The second race is November 20-22 under the lights in Las Vegas, where drivers negotiate 17 turns and zip down Las Vegas Boulevard at speeds over 200 mph.
Daytona International Speedway. Photo: Imperial Assassin.
Doing Daytona and Beyond
The Daytona 500 in Daytona, Florida, gives the racing season a jumpstart each February with plenty of thrills, fun, and RV parking.
And the Granddaddy of them all — the Indy 500 each Memorial Day weekend — draws fans from around the world,d and RVers can park in the infield, but if not, there’s dry parking in a field across from the Brickyard.
Fall is coming, and along with it, the colors that New England and other parts of the Eastern states are famous for. But leaves can be fickle. Forecasters say the best time for prime leaf peeping is late September through mid-October. So, if you have more than one week for your New England road trip, your chances improve for seeing the fall show of colors. However, some simple research and a check of local weather may improve your odds of hitting it just right.
Photo: Tolga Ahmetler
Traveling by RV also opens the opportunity to visit many areas and take in some local culture. There are pumpkin patches, apple orchards, small farms, and other places of interest.
During your fall visit, here are some of the recommended RV parks:
Maine
Camp Ann Camp Site is in the small fishing village of Gloucester, just 30 miles from Boston. There are more than 200 RV sites to accommodate everything from big rigs to folding tent trailers. They have water-view sites and wooded sites with fireplaces and picnic tables. One beach is just a mile away. There are deep sea fishing and whale watching charters. Or take a one-hour train ride to Boston.
Photo courtesy of Cape Ann Site.
Sea-Vu Campground is just off Highway 1 in Wells. There are several sandy beaches nearby. Kayak rentals and deep-sea fishing are also available. Camping is open from May 9 to October 15. Visit two lighthouses and dine at any of the local restaurants, some serving locally sourced lobster.
Sun Outdoors Wells Beach is a mile from one of Maine’s public beaches. And there is a lot more to do, including a challenging 18-hole mini golf course. Sites have gravel patios, cable TV, Wi-Fi, a picnic table, and a fire pit.
Massachusetts
Pine Acres Family Camping Resort in Oakham has been family-owned since1960. There are three levels of campsites and cabins. Some sites overlook the 70-acre lake, and those sites feature paver patios and Adirondack chairs. During the spring and fall value season, there is a 3-night minimum for campsites.
Photo courtesy of Sunsetview Farm Camping Area.
Sunsetview Farm Camping Area in Monson was started by a family in 1970. Today, second-generation owners welcome campers. The site was a dairy farm and apple orchard. Even the office is in the original family home, dated 1799.
New Hampshire
Tidewater Campground in Hampton Beach offers family camping and a pristine stretch of beach that has been chosen for perfect water quality. Also take a walk on the boardwalk, which is loaded with shops and restaurants. There are weekly fireworks, free concerts and a sand sculpting competition.
Photo courtesy of Twin Tamarack Family Camping and Resort.
Twin Tamarack Family Camping and Resort in New Hampton sits across the road from Lake Pemigewasset, where there is boating and fishing. Other activities include hiking, golf, water slides and mountain biking.
Wakeda Campground in Hampton Falls is operated by four generations of the same family. With 400 sites, Wakeda offers activities and facilities to meet the needs of guests.
Cold Springs Camp Resort in Weare is a top-rated RV park with about 400 sites on the 108-acre property. Started in 1969, the Silva family has run the business since. Today, sons Scott and Todd are controlling partner and manager, respectively, for what includes an RV dealership. The resort includes 4 pools, a host of planned activities and many rustic cabin rentals.
Photo courtesy of Shir-Roy Camping Area.
Shir-Roy Camping Area is in Richmond. Camping sites sit on 50 acres of natural woodlands, with a 42-acre pond. They have 75 available camp spots and a 42-acre pond. If you do not have an RV, you can rent a trailer to try out camping.
Virginia
Endless Caverns Resort isn’t in New England but is at the base of Massanutten Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, where fall color also abounds. With 120 RV sites, the park offers comfort and privacy among tree lined spaces. Plus, Endless Caverns offers an underground adventure led by experienced guides through six miles of caverns. Tours are offered April through November.
West Virginia
Leatherman’s Falling Waters Campsite in Falling Waters has been owned and operated by the same family since 1962. Most campers arrive driving off Interstate 81, a mile away. Leatherman’s also has a full-service camping store and is surrounded by historical sites in the hills where Virginia, West Virginia and Maryland meet.
Just remember, fall leaf viewing is a popular time of year in these areas, so be sure to book ahead. Have fun, take lots of colorful photos and tell them Good Sam sent you!
Light the fireworks and barbecue grills for the nation’s July 4 birthday. As we gear up for the year’s biggest coast-to-coast party, campers have a range of choices between spectacular pyrotechnic displays and quiet getaways away from the hustle and bustle.
Looking for that perfect Fourth excursion? Thousand Trails Campgrounds and Encore RV Resorts have the Fourth of July experience to match your preferences. The network of 200 resorts across the nation offers settings ranging from dynamic coastal destinations to serene mountain getaways.
Check out the following ThousandTrails.com destinations opening their arms to campers on America’s birthday.
Photo courtesy of Mt. Desert Coastal RV Resort.
Mt. Desert Coastal RV Resort, Bar Harbor, Maine
Located on the shores of Mt. Desert Island, Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort dishes out sweeping views of the water off the mainland. Land-based attractions are equally spectacular, with the historic town of Bar Harbor and spectacular Acadia National Park within a short drive.
Mt. Desert Narrows RV Resort takes care of RVing customers with roomy full-hookup sites, including big-rig sites, each with a table. Have fun in the pool or game room, or attend an ice cream social or magic show. The resort’s location on the shore means lots of boating, and pets are welcome here.
Acadia National Park. Photo: Nanda Firdaus.
Nearby: Acadia National Park thrills visitors with its majestic vistas, sparkling ponds, and rugged cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Take time to hike or drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, which rises 1,527 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest points on the East Coast. Bar Harbor, known as the gateway to Acadia, boasts legendary restaurants with views of the coast. When you’re not dining, go kayaking along the coast, embark on a whale-watching expedition, or attend movies in the park.
Photo courtesy of Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina.
Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina, Big Pine Key, Florida
Situated on a small island just across the water from Bahia Honda Key, the Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and is conveniently located on the Overseas Highway for access to surrounding attractions.
Options for fun here are abundant. Many travelers may head straight to the marina’s fishing pier; others may rent a kayak and paddleboard to explore the clear waters offshore. Brought your own watercraft? Lower it on the boat ramp and moor it on one of the resort’s docks (any boat longer than 18 feet must have a slip reservation). Active travelers can go dancing, take an exercise class, play basketball or volleyball, or go swimming in the ocean. Pickleball and tennis are also on offer.
Lovers of ocean views can reserve Elite Water Front sites, located right on the water, which are full hookups with 30- and 50-amp service as well as a picnic table. The same amenities are found in the Elite Marina Front sites, close to the resort’s marina.
Photo: Gene Gallin.
Nearby: You could spend weeks exploring all the fun things to do off the coast, where fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife watching are abundant. Swim with aquatic mammals at the Dolphin Research Center on Marathon Key or paddle through the mangroves on Big Pine Key.
Photo courtesy of Tall Chief Campground.
Tall Chief Campground, Fall City, Washington
Enjoy sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains from your site at Tall Chief Campground. Located just minutes from downtown Seattle and 18 miles from Bellevue, Tall Chief RV Resort wows guests with a slew of recreation options.
Onsite, Tall Chief Campground features expansive woods and spacious campsites. Guests enjoy the log Timber Lodge, pool pavilion, rolling lawns, and other resort amenities. Take advantage of the RV storage, dip into the swimming pool, or smooth those tired muscles at the spa.
Snoqualmie Falls. Photo: Michael Sanchez
Nearby: A short drive from the campground, the 270-foot-high Snoqualmie Falls roar. The adjacent Salish Lodge, with its gift shop and four-star restaurant, offers great opportunities for a leisurely meal overlooking the falls. During the evening, bright lights illuminate the cascade.
Just over 20 miles to the east, Seattle stands as the biggest city in the Pacific Northwest. Start at Pike Place Market, one of the city’s best-known attractions. It’s a great place to shop for everything from antique bric-a-brac to local handicrafts, but it’s probably best known for its boisterous and oft-photographed fish market.
Photo courtesy of Marina Dunes RV Resort.
Marina Dunes RV Resort, Marina, California
Camp on the scenic coast of Northern California just minutes away from the legendary towns of Monterey and Carmel at Marina Dunes RV Resort. Located in the small town of Marina, the park’s prime location to the beach means ample scenery and the top-notch amenities mean lots of comfort for campers.
Enjoy 85 full-hookup sites with a table and barbecue at each site. Guests can take advantage of tepee/yurt rentals for a more down-to-earth camping experience and enjoy the shower and laundry facilities. The resort’s store ensures that campers are stocked up.
Photo courtesy of Marina Dunes RV Resort.
Nearby: When exploring Monterey, the historic Cannery Row is a great place to start. It’s the original fish canning area that today features world-class restaurants, fancy boutiques, and galleries. American author John Steinbeck wrote lovingly of this region in books like “Cannery Row” and “Sweet Thursday.” The Monterey Bay Aquarium is located here and offers a wealth of sea creatures on display in compelling habitats.
In Nearby Carmel, check out the Basilica of Mission San Carlos Borromeo Del Rio Carmelo, dating back to 1770. Mission Ranch, nearby, is also a great example of early Spanish architecture. This, along with downtown’s Hog’s Breath Inn Restaurant and Bar, is owned by the one-time mayor of Carmel and the famous film star Clint Eastwood.
Photo courtesy of Drummer Boy Campground.
Drummer Boy Campground, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Follow the beat of Drummer Boy Campground, located in historic Gettysburg and close to fabulous outdoor attractions. With more than 120 full-hookup sites, the 95-acre park accommodates RV travelers with ample space and a picnic table at each site, along with restroom/shower and laundry facilities. Luxury cabins, cottages, and lofts are also available, and the wooded terrain adds to the rustic feel.
Guests will love the pool, miniature golf, and snack bar. Planned activities are designed to keep everyone in the family engaged and entertained. For the Fourth, the campground is putting on a celebration featuring a DJ pool party, live entertainment, crafts, and a chance for guests to decorate their RVs in patriotic colors.
Photo courtesy of Drummer Boy Campground.
Nearby: Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the site of the 1863 pivotal battle between Confederate and Union forces. Indeed, the park is more than the battlefield; it is the place where hundreds of soldiers are now laid to rest and where the park’s museum displays relics from the battle, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations in 22,000 square feet of space.
In town, guests can visit the former home of Gettysburg attorney David Wills, who opened his doors to President Abraham Lincoln in November of 1863 so that the leader could fine-tune his famous Gettysburg Address. The residence is a museum with five galleries and two re-created rooms open to public viewing. Explore the paranormal with a ghost tour or candlelight walk. A tour of the Museum of Haunted Objects in town will acquaint you with some of the world’s most spooky curios. Feel the spirit of haunted dolls, possessed typewriters, and, of course, witchy Ouija boards.
Photo courtesy of Plymouth Rock Campground.
Plymouth Rock Campground, Plymouth, Wisconsin
Although this getaway bears the name of a famous Massachusetts landmark, Plymouth Rock Campground embodies the fun and adventure of Wisconsin. Adjacent to Little Elkhart Lake and minutes from Lake Michigan, Plymouth Rock gives campers a wide menu of recreation activities for a fun-filled Fourth weekend.
Plymouth Rock treats campers to a wide array of roomy grass sites, including big rig spaces. Conveniences include a dump station, mobile sewer service, and laundry facilities. “Wagon wheel” sites are popular among groups or individuals who seek to camp in a social setting. Campers will find fun at every turn, with a dance hall, baseball field, basketball, and volleyball courts, and an outdoor movie theater offering great diversions.
Photo courtesy of Plymouth Rock Campground.
Nearby: Next door, Little Elkhart Lake is a 52-acre haven for swimmers, boaters, and anglers, with a public boat landing. Drop a line for panfish and largemouth bass, or simply relax on tranquil waters. For bigger coastlines and even more recreation choices, take a short drive to the “Malibu of the Midwest.” Sheboygan is known for its laid-back feel, charming downtown, excellent fishing, and expansive boating on Lake Michigan. Go kiteboarding or surfing in this water wonderland.
