Month: September 2024

The Best RV Camping October 2024

Explore the guide to find some of the best in October camping across America

Where should you park yourself and your RV this month? With so many options out there you may be overwhelmed with the number of locales calling your name.

Maybe you’re an experienced RV enthusiast, maybe you’ve never been in one—regardless, these RV parks are worth your attention. After finding the perfect campground, you can look into RV prices, the different types of RVs, and learn how to plan a road trip. Who knows, maybe you’ll love it so much you’ll convert to full-time RV living.

I didn’t just choose these RV parks by throwing a dart at a map. As an RVer with more than 25 years of experience traveling the highways and byways of America and Western Canada—learning about camping and exploring some of the best hiking trails along the way—I can say with confidence that I know what makes a great RV campground. From stunning views and accommodating amenities to friendly staff and clean facilities, the little things add up when you’re RV camping. And these campgrounds are truly the cream of the crop.

Here are 10 of the top RV parks and campgrounds to explore in October: one of these parks might be just what you’re looking for. So, sit back, relax and get ready for your next adventure at one of these incredible RV parks!

RVing with Rex selected this list of parks from those personally visited.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly RV park recommendations for the best places to camp in September. Also check out my recommendations from October 2023 and November 2023.

Holiday Travel Park of Chattanooga © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Holiday Travel Park of Chattanooga, Chattanooga, Tennessee

Located a half mile off I-75 (Exit 1), Holiday Travel Park of Chattanooga offers 170 campsites with water, sewer, 30/50 amp electric, and cable TV connections. Most sites are pull-through, graveled, and level with some sites up to 70 feet for big rigs. Amenities include a newly renovated pool, fast speed Internet, playground, bath house, laundry room, facility, meeting room, outdoor pavilion, and dog park.

Our pull-through site was in the 65-foot range with 50/30-amp electric service, water, sewer, and Cable TV centrally located. Interior roads and individual sites are gravel. Holiday Travel Park of Chattanooga is located on a Civil War battlefield which served as a skirmish site in 1863 preceding the Battle of Chickamauga.

Dakota Campground © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Dakota Campground, Mitchell, South Dakota

Dakota Campground is a pleasant-enough park with 41 mostly shaded sites. Back-in and pull-through sites (maximum length 50 feet) are available. Basic amenities include a pool, games room, playground, Laundromat, and convenience. The park is located one-half mile off I-90 at Exit 330, 2 miles west of Cabela’s.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lake Pleasant Regional Park, Morristown, Arizona

One of the most scenic water recreation areas in the Valley of the Sun, this northwest Valley park is a recreationist’s dream. This 23,362 acre park offers many activities including camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Lake Pleasant is a water reservoir and is part of the Central Arizona Project waterway system bringing water from the Lower Colorado River into Central and southern Arizona.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers 145 sites for camping. Each “Developed Site” has water, electricity, dump station, a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill, and fire ring. Each “Semi-developed Site” and tent site has a covered ramada, a picnic table, a barbecue grill, and fire ring.

Las Vegas RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Las Vegas RV Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas RV Resort is a 378 site RV park restricted to guests 18 years of age or older with a great location a short distance from the action of ‘The Strip’. The resort offers full hook-ups with back-in and pull-through sites available. Amenities include free Wi-Fi throughout the resort, pool and spa, fitness center, laundry facilities, pet area, picnic tables at every site, and 24-hour patrol.

Coastal Georgia RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Coastal Georgia RV Resort, Brunswick, Georgia

Coastal Georgia RV Resorts offer 105 spacious sites, all 35 feet wide with lengths ranging from 60 to 70 feet. Most sites are pull-through with full hookups including 30 and 50 amp service and tables. The Resort’s roads are all paved. Fire rings are available at the Pavilion. Amenities include a game room, conference room, two bath houses, two laundromats, a dock, and a store where you can find RV supplies as well as LP gas.

The resort also offers a swimming pool, horseshoe pits, and shuffleboard courts. Cable TV and Wi-Fi is included. From I-95 (exit 29) and US 17, go ½ mile west on SR-17, turn left onto US-17 south for ¼ mile, turn east onto Martin Palmer Dr for 1 mile and enter straight ahead.

Columbia Sun RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Columbia Sun RV Resort, Kennewick, Washington

Big-rig friendly, Columbia Sun RV Resort is a new 5-star resort that opened in 2013. Spacious sites, manicured grass on both sides, wide paved streets, and a perfect 10/10*/10 Good Sam rating. Washington’s Tri-Cities area—Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland—is a great area to visit to explore the outdoors while still being close to shopping, dining, and wineries.

The Columbia Sun Resort has a heated swimming pool, hot tub, fitness room, game room, dog runs, sports court, and a playground.

Roosevelt State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Roosevelt State Park, Morton, Mississippi

Conveniently located between Meridian and Jackson, Mississippi, Roosevelt State Park offers an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities in a picturesque setting. A variety of recreational activities and facilities are available at Roosevelt State Park including a visitor center, game room, performing arts and media center, picnic area, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, disc golf, softball field, swimming pool and water slide, tennis courts, and nature trails. Fishing, boating, and water skiing are available on Shadow Lake, a 150 acre fresh water lake.

The park offers 109 RV campsites, primitive tent sites, 15 vacation cabins, motel, and a group camp

Katy Lake RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Katy Lake RV Resort, Katy, Texas

Katy Lake RV Resort is situated on 18 acres surrounding a 6 acre lake nestled in the heart of west Houston. Katy Lake offers lake-view drive-in and back-in sites 45 feet in length. Other site types include pull-through (65 feet), premium pull-through (85 feet), and covered. Amenities include 30/50-amp electric service, water, sewer, cable TV, Wi-Fi, activity center, exercise room, dog park/dog washing station, walking/jogging trail, walk-in pool with hot tub, concrete streets, sites, and patios.

Southern Utah RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Southern Utah RV Resort, Washington, Utah

Southern Utah RV Resort is a well-maintained newer park. It’s located on a hilltop adjacent to I-15 about a mile from Settlers Point Luxury RV Resort. Freeway noise is minimal as the state has installed a concrete wall along the freeway for noise mitigation. Southern Utah RV Resort provides full hookup RV sites on clean level packed gravel parking pads with paved roads and grass surrounds.

The long pull-through sites will accommodate a 45-foot motorhome and tow vehicle without unhooking. Nice pool and other amenities. This park makes a good home base to explore St. George, Hurricane, Zion National Park, and other attractions. The only complaint is the poor-quality Wi-Fi.

Jack’s Landing RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Jack’s Landing RV Resort, Grants Pass, Oregon

New in 2002, Jack’s Landing RV Resort offers 54 RV sites adjacent to Interstate 5 (Exit 58). The nicely landscaped park has paved roads and concrete parking pads. Jack’s Landing is big rig friendly with pull-through sites in the 70-75 foot range (also back-in sites) and conveniently located 30/50-amp electric service, water, and sewer connections, and cable TV.

Paved sites and fairly wide paved streets. Pleasingly landscaped and treed. The main office has restrooms, showers, a laundry, gym, and small ball court. Only negative is freeway noise.

Worth Pondering…

Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of intelligent effort.

—John Ruskin

How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Coffee on National Coffee Day:  September 29

A guide to the brewing essentials

Coffee is personal—the right way to make it is how you like it best. 

That being said, mastering a few fundamentals will help you perfect your technique.

Here are my tips to brew a classic cup of coffee.

The equipment

Make sure that your bean grinders and filters to coffee makers are thoroughly cleaned after each use. Rinse with clear, hot water or wipe down thoroughly and dry with an absorbent towel. It’s important to check that no grounds have been left to collect and that there’s no build-up of coffee oil (caffeol) which can make future cups of coffee taste bitter and rancid.

A place for everything including coffee maker of choice © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The beans

Great coffee starts with great beans. The quality and flavor of your coffee is not only determined by your favorite brewing process but also by the type of coffee you select. There can be a world of difference between roasts.

Some of the flavor factors include:

  • The country and region of origin 
  • The variety of bean: Arabica or Robusta
  • The roast type: Light roast, medium roast, medium dark roast, dark roast
  • The texture of your grind: Coarse, medium-coarse, medium, medium-fine, fine, Turkish

While there are a lot of choices, remember that there’s no right or wrong—for instance, you can choose a dark, flavorful espresso roast coffee and still have it ground to be brewed in a drip system. Have fun trying and enjoying different combinations.

Freshness

Purchase coffee as soon as possible after it’s roasted. Fresh-roasted coffee is essential to a quality cup so buy your coffee in small amounts (ideally every one to two weeks).

Your beans’ greatest enemies are air, moisture, heat, and light. To preserve your beans’ fresh roasted flavor as long as possible store them in an opaque, air-tight container at room temperature. Coffee beans can be beautiful but avoid clear canisters which will allow light to compromise the taste of your coffee. Keep your beans in a dark and cool location. A cabinet near the oven is often too warm and so is a spot on the kitchen counter that gets strong afternoon sun.

Coffee’s retail packaging is generally not ideal for long-term storage. If possible, invest in storage canisters with an airtight seal.

And please, never reuse your coffee grounds to make coffee. Once brewed, the desirable coffee flavors have been extracted and only the bitter ones are left.

Keep your coffee beans in a cool and dark location © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The grind

If you buy whole bean coffee always grind your beans as close to the brew time as possible for maximum freshness. A burr or mill grinder is best because the coffee is ground to a consistent size.

A blade grinder is less preferable because some coffee will be ground more finely than the rest. If you normally grind your coffee at home with a blade grinder try having it ground at the store with a burr grinder—you’ll be surprised at the difference! 

The size of the grind is hugely important to the taste of your coffee. If your coffee tastes bitter, it may be over-extracted or ground too fine. On the other hand, if your coffee tastes flat, it may be under-extracted, meaning your grind is too coarse. 

If you’re having the coffee ground to order, tell the professionals where you purchase your coffee exactly how you will be brewing it. Will you be using a French Press? A flat or cone drip filter? A gold mesh filter? They will grind it specifically for your preparation method.

The water

The water you use is very important to the quality of your coffee. Use filtered or bottled water if your tap water is not good or has a strong odor or taste such as chlorine. 

If you’re using tap water, let it run a few seconds before filling your coffee pot and be sure to use cold water. Avoid distilled or softened water.

Coffee-to-water ratio

A general guideline is called the Golden Ratio—one to two tablespoons of ground coffee for every six ounces of water. This can be adjusted to suit individual taste preferences.  

Check the cup lines or indicators on your specific brewer to see how they actually measure. And remember that some water is lost to evaporation in certain brewing methods. 

Coffee in bed? © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Water temperature 

Safety first! Of course, any time you are working with heat and hot beverages, take all necessary precautions for everyone from those preparing coffee to those being served and drinking coffee. 

Your brewer should maintain a water temperature between 195 to 205 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal extraction. Colder water will result in flat, under-extracted coffee while water that is too hot will also cause a loss of quality in the taste of the coffee.

If you are brewing the coffee manually, let the water come to a full boil but do not over boil. Turn off the heat source and allow the water to rest a minute before pouring it over the grounds.

Coffee usually cools rapidly after being served depending upon the container from which it is being served. And, many coffee drinkers may add cream or milk which also has a cooling effect. 

Ultimately, the temperature at which any individual coffee drinker will prefer their coffee is a personal preference like so many other things that make coffee special. These are some of the reasons why it is best to serve coffee right after brewing when it is fresh and hot. Cupping quality standards suggest brewing at 200˚F. Coffee drinkers often desire to add cold milk or cream or just allow the hot beverage to cool to reach a comfortable temperature for drinking. 

Delicious coffee from Louisiana © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Brewing time

The amount of time that the water is in contact with the coffee grounds is another important flavor factor. 

In a drip system, the contact time should be approximately 5 minutes. If you are making your coffee using a French Press, the contact time should be 2-4 minutes. Espresso has an especially brief brew time—the coffee is in contact with the water for only 20-30 seconds. Cold brew, on the other hand should steep overnight (about 12 hours).

If you’re not happy with the taste of the final product, you’re likely either:

  • Over-extracting: Brew time is too long
  • Under-extracting: Brew time is too short

Experiment with the contact time until you get the right balance for your taste.

Prepared coffee begins to lose its optimal taste moments after brewing so only make as much coffee as you’ll drink. Otherwise, coffee can be poured into a warmed, insulated thermos to be consumed within an hour.

Don’t worry old coffee probably isn’t dangerous just not very appealing. Always use your best judgement before ingesting anything, no matter what you read on the Internet.

Try to enjoy your coffee as thoughtfully as it was prepared; take in the aroma and notice the flavors in each sip. Many people have been instrumental in bringing it to your cup.

Worth Pondering…

Coffee, the favorite drink of the civilized world.

—Thomas Jefferson

How to Find Big Rig RV Parks

There are plenty of RV parks for 40-45 foot RVs. You just have to know how to find them.

In a previous post, I took a look at big rig RVs. In today’s post, I’m looking at big rig RV parks—parks that are referred to as big rig friendly or as having big rig access and what those terms really mean (if anything).

Most importantly, today’s post takes a look at how to find big rig RV parks and how to make sure they’re actually friendly toward and accessible to your big rig RV.

Let’s get rolling!

What size RV is considered a big rig?

Any RV over 40 feet in length is generally considered a big rig RV. This includes motorhomes, fifth wheels, and any type of RV that spans 40 feet or more.

Read more: What Is A Big Rig RV?

Settlers Point RV Resort, Washington, Utah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

What is the largest size RV allowed in national parks?

While the answer to this question varies in terms of details from park to park, RVs with a maximum length of 27 feet are allowed in most national parks.

Around 98 percent of national park campgrounds can accept RVs up to 19 feet in length and 90 percent of national parks permit RVs up to 25 feet long.

Many national parks allow far bigger rigs than that but you really need to check each park as you make your plans. Let’s take a look at a few examples of some of the big name parks and the lengths of the RVs they can accommodate:

  • Acadia National Park in Maine has no restrictions on RV length at any of its campgrounds
  • Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho) has campgrounds that can accommodate 40 feet and even 50 feet long RVs
  • Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado permits 40-foot rigs
  • Denali National Park in Alaska has an RV length limit of 40 feet
  • Mount Rainier National Park in Washington State offers sites for 35-foot motorhomes and 27-foot trailers (maximum)
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee limits are 40 feet for motorhomes and 35 feet for trailers
  • Everglades National Park in Florida can accommodate 45-foot rigs
  • Yosemite National Park has nine different campgrounds and they vary from 27 feet to 40 feet in terms of the size of the RVs they can accommodate
  • And finally, Grand Canyon National Park has a couple of campgrounds that can accept rigs up to 30 feet long (including your vehicle) and one that can accommodate rigs as long as 50 feet
River Sands RV Resort, Ehrenburg. Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

What does big rig friendly mean?

Big rig friendly is a term that’s supposed to mean that the campground will be at least fairly easy for big rig owners to navigate—to enter and exit, to drive through, and to park. Unfortunately, in reality, it’s not quite that simple.

One RV park owner’s idea of big rig friendly may be very different from that of another. And in fact, many of the people who designate a campground as big rig friendly have never even driven a Class A RV and have little understanding of what it takes to navigate twists and turns, trees and rocks, and rough terrain.

So, in the end, big rig friendly is a rather subjective term (there’s no defined standard or testing body) that is somewhat meaningless UNLESS you confirm a park’s big rig friendliness with people who have previously navigated the park in a big rig.

This is why I stress the importance of reading reviews from your fellow RVers who’ve been in a location before you. They are the best sources of information as to what big rig friendly really means from park to park and campground to campground.

Read more: What Does Big Rig Friendly Really Mean?

Buckhorn Lake Resort, Kerrville, Texas © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

What does big rig access mean?

The same is somewhat true for the term big rig access. As I noted throughout my post on big rig RVs, big rig access should mean that big rigs have easy (or at least somewhat easy) access to the park or campground.

If in driving into an RV park or campground (and/or navigating to your campsite) you risk damaging your RV, that park is not big rig friendly and it doesn’t offer big rig access even if they have very long campsites.

If, however, you’re able to reasonably navigate your way into and out of the park and your campsite, then you’ve got big rig access.

As I noted in my post on big rig RVs, reading reviews and walking (or driving your toad car) through the park and to your campsite before you attempt to drive your big rig in are the best ways to determine whether a park or campground has big rig access or not.

Coastal Georgia RV Resort © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

What are the easiest ways to find big rig RV parks?

There are a number of ways to find big rig RV parks and to find out in advance whether they’re truly big rig friendly and offer big rig access. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Allstays

Allstays is an app that you can download to your smartphone or tablet. The app offers a wide array of filters including some that will indicate big rig accommodations. You can also see reviews from other big rig owners who’ve camped (or attempted to camp) at the locations you’re considering and their experiences can guide you.

And Allstays isn’t just for campgrounds and RV parks. You can search for parking lots where overnighting is allowed, places to shop such as camping stores, Walmarts, grocery stores, stores with fishing gear, etc. And always check those reviews! Fellow RVers with rigs as large as yours and larger may have attempted one entry and found that another entry works better for big rigs and that information could save you some time and lots of grief.

RV Trip Wizard

RV Trip Wizard offers similar ways to search and also offers a satellite and terrain view. These, as well as elevation and gradient are available under “Map Settings”.

This type of information can be very helpful to big rig RV owners and can help you to plan your travels.

Additionally, RV Trip Wizard allows you to customize RV-safe routes to the height and weight of your RV. This allows you to avoid low clearances and steep grades.

RV Trip Wizard offers reviews of campgrounds by fellow RVers and as always I can’t stress enough just how helpful those reviews can be.

RV Trip Wizard is part of the RV Life suite of tools.

Google Maps

Most of us are at least somewhat familiar with Google Maps by now but you may not realize that Google Maps allows you to use map layers with satellite views. This can be very helpful when trying to determine whether an area will be easily (or not so easily!) navigated by a big rig.

Big Rig Best Bets

Big Rig Best Bets Guide offers both a spiral-bound book and an online version with information about big rig RV parks that have been personally visited by the authors. They include satellite views of every park and embedded Google Map features as well.

You’ll find everything from upscale resorts to overnight stops along the interstate to public parks and more.

Each park listing offers specific site numbers as well as the lengths of the sites along with additional park details such as Wi-Fi information and other park amenities.

Lake Osprey RV Resort, Elberta, Alabama © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

What is the most important thing to do when looking for a big rig RV park?

Read reviews

The best approach when trip planning is to read reviews to learn what the experiences of other big rig RV owners have been like at various locations.

You’ll want to make sure that the entrances, turns, and approach and length of the site will work for you.

Regardless of what trip planner or app you use, reading reviews from other big rig owners is essential. Once again, many campgrounds and RV parks market themselves as a big rig RV park as being big rig friendly or as having big rig access but when you arrive you find that there are low hanging branches or large rocks on curves or at site edges that can cause damage to larger rigs that try to pass through.

And remember that as a big rig owner it’s important to leave reviews based on your stays at various campgrounds and RV parks in an effort to help other big rig owners.

Can big rigs stay at State and National Parks?

The answer to this question is yes—at some state and national parks (and at some sites) but not at others. Here again, it’s imperative that you find a manner of researching this prior to attempting to gain entry at a park that specifies no access for big rigs.

The Springs at Borrego RV Resort, Borrego Springs, California © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Big rig RV parks and resorts

If you don’t want to do the searching yourself, I understand. That’s why I’ve put together a list of some of the best big rig RV parks:

  • Bella Terra of Gulf Shores, Foley, Alabama
  • Lake Osprey RV Resort, Elberta, Alabama (see photo above)
  • River Sands RV Resort, Ehrenburg, Arizona (see photo above)
  • Vista Del Sol RV Resort, Bullhead City, Arizona
  • The MotorCoach Resort, Chandler, Arizona
  • Tucson/Lazydays KOA. Tucson, Arizona
  • Rincon Country West RV Resort, Tucson, Arizona
  • The Springs at Borrego RV Resort & Golf Course, Borrego Springs, California (see photo above)
  • Jackson Rancheria Casino & RV Park, Jackson, California
  • Orange Groove RV Park, Bakersfield, California
  • Coastal Georgia RV Resort, Brunswick, Georgia (see photo above)
  • Ambassador RV Resort, Caldwell, Idaho
  • Polson Motorcoach Resort, Polson, Montana
  • Seven Feathers RV Resort, Canyonville, Oregon
  • Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort & Marina, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
  • Two Rivers Landing RV Resort, Sevierville, Tennessee
  • Buckhorn Lake Resort, Kerrville, Texas (see photo above)
  • Aspen Groove RV Resort, Tremonton, Utah
  • Settlers Point RV Resort, Washington, Utah (see photo above)

Worth Pondering…

No matter where we go in our motorhome, that sense of independence is satisfying. We have our own facilities, from comfortable bed to a fridge full of our favorite foods. We set the thermostat the way we like it and go to bed and get up in our usual routine.

10 Amazing Places to RV in October 2024

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in October

Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.

—Seneca

The philosopher Seneca contributed largely to an ancient Roman school of thought called Stoicism: the idea that, in life, some things are under our control and others are not. Seneca’s quote here reminds us that we cannot dictate circumstance but we can work hard and train in our chosen vocation so that when opportunity presents itself, we’re ready.

Octagon, octopus… most words that begin with the Latin prefix Oct have some connection to the number eight. But what about October? While the modern calendar considers the autumn month to be the 10th of the year, it wasn’t always that way. For the ancient Romans who created the earliest form of the calendar we use now, October was originally the eighth month.

Today’s calendar follows a 12-month cycle though the earliest iterations only had 10 months. In ancient Rome, the year began in March and ran through December with the first four months named for Roman deities. The next six months had more straightforward, numerical names that referenced their place in the year. The remaining weeks of winter (which would eventually become January and February) were largely ignored on paper; when the harvest season ended, so did the calendar until the next spring planting season rolled around.

Over time, the calendar expanded by two months; January and February were added around 700 BC and by about the middle of the fifth century BC they had become the starting months of the year. When Julius Caesar introduced the Julian calendar, he didn’t adjust the number-named months to more appropriate places though later Roman emperors tried using names that didn’t stick.

Domitian who ruled from 81 to 96 called October Domitianus after himself and decades later Commodus dubbed the month Herculeus after one of his own titles. Some historians believe the attempts to rename October (and the other months of the year) were widely disregarded because the leaders themselves were generally disliked though another theory might explain it best: Like many people today, Romans of the past just weren’t fans of change.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in August and September. Also check out my recommendations from October 2023 and November 2023.

Crowley © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. 87th annual International Rice Festival, October 17-20, 2024, Crowley, Louisiana

The International Rice Festival held annually every third full weekend in October is one of Louisiana’s oldest and largest agricultural festivals. The first festival was held on October 5, 1937 as the National Rice Festival; it was renamed the International Rice Festival in 1946 when the festival was resumed after a hiatus during World War II (1942–1945). 

The celebration is held to honor the rice industry and its hardworking farmers. It has brought attention to the importance of rice as a food and emphasizes its place in the world.

​Throughout the weekend, two sound stages are filled with live entertainment.

Festival goers can participate in many additional activities and events such as The Classic Car Show, the Crowley High 5k Run Walk and the Fiddle and Accordion Contest. The Rice Festival Queen’s Contest, the, Rice Eating Contest and Frog Derby are always must-see events. The festival has not one but two parades during the weekend. A Children’s Parade is featured on Friday afternoon and The Grand Parade takes the streets on Saturday afternoon. 

Petrified Forest National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. A petrified park

Nature, geology, archaeology, paleontology, history, and sections of the Mother Road: This intermountain basin high-desert park has it all. Rather than the traditional scenic alpine view of mountains and tree-lined vistas, this park boasts a forest—a petrified one.

Petrified Forest National Park is a geologic treasure chest. Evidence of both Earth and human history exist here evidentially by fossils dating to 225 million years ago and Indigenous peoples’ culture that dates back more than 13,000 years. You’ll also find one of the most continuous sections of Triassic-age rocks ever discovered in the world, deposited here by enormous rivers.

Something else not found at other national parks is the Museum Demonstration Lab where you can chat with paleontologists at work and peek in the windows to view the fossils they’re cleaning and conserving.

Blue Mesa and Crystal Forest are my favorite trails. The brilliant colors in the petrified wood come mainly from trace minerals. Here’s a cheat sheet: pure quartz is white; manganese oxides form blue, purple, black, and brown; and iron oxides provide hues from yellow through red to brown and black.

For more tips on exploring Petrified Forest National Park, check out these blog posts:

New River Gorge Bridge © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Bridge Day

Bridge Day is West Virginia’s largest single-day festival and one of the largest extreme sports events in the world. Held annually every third Saturday in October (October 19, 2024) on the New River Gorge Bridge, this is the only day each year thousands of spectators can walk across the bridge and watch as serious BASE jumpers get their chance to fly 876 feet into the Gorge below and rappellers ascend and descend from the catwalk. 

Enjoy the view from the bridge, one of the best overlooks in the New River Gorge. 2024 marks the 45th anniversary of Bridge Day!

Barrio Viejo © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Barrio Viejo

Barrio Viejo, meaning old neighborhood in Spanish is an area near downtown Tucson that is an important, historical part of the community. This picturesque destination just south of the Tucson Convention Center lies between I-10 and Stone Avenue with Meyer and Main Avenues passing through the center.

The original Barrio neighborhood built between 1880 and 1920 was home to a diverse working class including Spanish, Mexican, Asian, and Hispanic. The residents worked largely in the service industry scratching out a living. Using traditional Mexican Village architecture, houses were built of thick-walled adobe with a flat roof, wood beams, and ocotillo, or saguaro cactus ribs, coverings. The doors and windows were narrow opening onto the streets and sometimes with a fence across the front.

Begin your tour of Barrio Veijo at Five Points, the corner of Stone and 18th Streets. Over many decades the houses have been painted bold bright colors with doors/windows becoming works of art. Public buildings also have been treated with the same effect.

The Barrio has become a major tourist attraction drawing photographers, artists, and tour groups. In 1978, the Barrio was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

While viewing the Barrio, respect private property, take a lot of photos, and enjoy the delightful ambiance. Let your photos tell the story of the Historico Barrio Viejo.

Big Bend National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Experience the magic of Big Bend Country

The combination of desert, mountains, and river plus historic ghost towns and colorful West Texas culture makes this region an unmatched haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

Don’t limit yourself to Big Bend National Park. Explore more of the region’s captivating landscapes and you’ll discover under-the-radar wilderness access like in Big Bend Ranch State Park.

This 300,000-acre reserve abuts the northwestern side of the national park so you can experience similar topography with an added dose of solitude. Scramble over rugged terrain and between narrow rock walls on the 1.4-mile out-and-back Closed Canyon Trail. Or opt for a scenic riverside loop on the 1.2-mile Big Bend Hoodoo Trail.

Bisbee © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Bisbee

Bisbee is having a moment. Named by Travel Lemming and Atlas Obscura as one of the best places to visit in 2024 and recently featured as a USA TODAY hidden gem, the former mining town in the Mule Mountains is a charming spot with stories to tell.

Travelers can immerse themselves in mining history by visiting the Copper Queen Mine where they’ll put on headlamps and helmets as if they were miners for a day. Bisbee’s downtown bustles with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants; ghost tours guide visitors through the city’s haunted history.

The staircases built into the town’s hills inspired October’s Bisbee 1000 Stair Climb (October 19, 2024). The 4.5-mile course features nine staircases (over 1,000 total steps) connected by winding roads. While enjoying the challenge, runners and walkers alike see some of the most scenic parts of Old Bisbee.

Dead Horse Point State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Dead Horse Point State Park

Although it’s not a household name, Dead Horse rides coattails in the best way possible: It’s situated near one of Utah’s Big Five, it’s basically the Grand Canyon’s long-lost twin and it was the backdrop for Thelma & Louise’s iconic final scene.

Mountain biking the badass Intrepid Trail is a must for thrill-seekers but the more relaxed can simply gaze open-mouthed from 2,000 feet in the air down at the deep-red rocks, glorious hues, and panoramic vistas of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park.

The park gets its name from horses that died in this unforgiving landscape and with much of the park open with unfenced cliffs and little signage, you best exercise a bit of common sense if you want to make it out of here alive.

8. Cincinnati + Northern Kentucky

The Nation’s largest immersive art event, BLINK, lights up the Cincy Region for four days every other year. This festival features over 80 interactive installations by hundreds of international muralists, light installation, and projection artists. These local, national, and international artists create a living, breathing event you must see to believe. 

This free, public art event takes spans 30+ city blocks through the urban core of Cincinnati, Ohio and Covington and Newport, Kentucky. Filled with art and music, this unforgettable event takes place October 17-20, 2024 and promises fun for the entire family.

Congaree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Home of champions

South Carolina’s Congaree National Park is one of the most remarkable forests on the East Coast and autumn is the perfect time to explore this incredible spot in its full natural glory. Congaree preserves a unique forest ecosystem known as a hardwood bottomland forest.

Once common across the southeast, this type of forest has sadly suffered a major decline due to logging, damming, and human development. As a result, Congaree is now one of the few places in the country to witness this special type of ecosystem.

The Congaree bottomland forest owes its existence to the regular flooding of the Congaree River. Ample flooding allows the park’s old-growth forests to grow to much greater heights than in most other spots. As a result, Congaree contains the tallest trees found anywhere east of the Mississippi with many individual trees in the park holding the world record for the tallest of their entire species.

During the autumn months, the towering trees in Congaree erupt in magnificent displays of yellow and orange. Because these trees are much taller than those in other temperate forests, visitors to Congaree in the fall can witness one of the most unique fall foliage displays in the country.

Autumn is the perfect time to rent a canoe or kayak and head out on the Congaree River to witness this amazing autumn display towering over the river. And, thanks to the warmer southeastern climate of South Carolina, the fall colors in Congaree tend to last into November.

Joshua Tree National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Where two deserts meet

Joshua Tree National Park is unique among fall destinations in that fall, not summer, is the park’s peak tourist season. This makes sense when you stop to think about it. After all, the park sits at the confluence of two different deserts.

This unique geography frequently causes summer temperatures to soar far above what most visitors are comfortable with. The more manageable temperatures of autumn provide a better backdrop for exploring the park’s amazing environment without suffering through the uncomfortable (and often dangerous) summer heat.

And exploration is more than worth it. Joshua Tree sits in a unique geographic area between the Colorado and Mojave Deserts. Here, the complex landscape expands into a vast monument of rocks, mountains, and hearty desert plants (including the park’s namesake Joshua Tree).

During the fall, hikers can find the perfect weather to explore the park’s many scenic trails, climbing routes, and observation points.

After sunset, overnight campers will be treated to some of the most gorgeous autumn night skies anywhere in the US. Each October, the Joshua Tree Night Sky Festival provides once-in-a-lifetime experiences for professional and amateur stargazers alike. The 9th annual Night Sky Festival is scheduled for October 4-5, 2024

Worth Pondering…

I wish that every day was Saturday and every month was October.

—Charmaine J. Forde

UNWRITTEN Rules for Overnight RV Parking at Truck Stops

What every RVer NEEDS TO KNOW about rules and proper etiquette for parking overnight at truck stops

Is it okay to park your RVs overnight at truck stops? Technically, yes, it is okay, BUT only if you follow these UNWRITTEN rules.

These rules may be UNWRITTEN but an angry truck driver will be more than willing to shout them at you. Or worse, show you!

Of course, most truck drivers are kind and patient and will either tolerate any UNWRITTEN rule or nicely ask you to address the issue. But you don’t want them to have to do that nor do you want to push anyone beyond their patience level.

The key is respect!

By the way, this is one article in a series of Unwritten Rules. You should also read:

Q-T truck stop © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Parking overnight at truck stops: What you NEED to know

First and foremost, you must remember that truckers are working! They are trying to earn a living for their families and they need truck stops to do so.

It’s understandable that they get upset if your RV interferes with their livelihood. After hours on the road, they want and need somewhere to park, rest, shower, and eat. Not to mention they are required BY LAW to take a break.

So, the all-encompassing rule to remember as you read the following rules is: TRUCKERS GET PRIORITY.

RULE #1: Don’t leave your RV when filling up

Do not pull up to the fuel pump, start pumping, and then go inside for a snack. Wait for your pump to finish filling your tank then pull through to a parking spot. Only then should you leave your RV to go into the store or restroom.

Breaking this rule is a sure way to tick off a trucker (and fellow RVers who also are waiting in line). After all, they’re on the clock! They shouldn’t have to wait on you to get back out on the road.

Love’s truck stop © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

RULE #2: Don’t park in truck spots

Never park in a truck parking spot at truck stops even if many are available. Truckers come in and out at all hours and they may need that spot.

Only park in designated RV spots! You’ll thank me for two reasons for this advice.

For one, these semi trucks are loud even when they’re idling or running off generators at night. You won’t get a good night’s sleep even if truckers leave you be.

For two, you won’t have to deal with a tired, irritated trucker. Put yourself in his or her shoes and imagine what it’d be like to pull in for a much-needed (and legally-required) rest only to find an RV in your spot. I’m sure you’d be disgruntled, too.

RULE #3: Don’t park too close to trucks

This is clearly a pet peeve of truckers. After all, they are navigating BIG trucks into small spaces. 

So, even if your designated RV spot is next to a truck spot, give them as much space as possible. Better yet, park in a spot as far away as possible!

It’s strongly recommended that you keep your slides retracted as they can accidentally get swiped when big rigs are moving in tight places. If you have to extend your slides to access your rooms, only put them out as far as necessary. And make sure they do not hang over the neighboring parking space. Again, park as far away from trucks as possible!

Remember that overnight parking at a truck stop is only meant as a pit stop to rest or sleep at most. You certainly should not set up camp for the night by putting out chairs and slides!

Independent truck stop © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

RULE #4: Don’t be a shower hog

As an RVer you can use showers at truck stops. It’s a great way to refresh in a clean shower for a small fee. 

However, don’t be a shower hog! If there are several showers available and no crowd in sight, feel free to enjoy a good long shower. But if there’s a line (especially consisting of truckers), don’t dawdle. Remember, always give truckers priority!

So, shower quickly if truckers are waiting or better yet, shower later if that’s a convenient-enough option for you.

RULE #5: Beware of hustlers

If ANYONE tries to involve you in anything regarding money at a truck stop, stay clear of it. If anyone tries to chat-you-up about something you know nothing of, just say sorry, I gotta get doing stuff and move on.

People work in weird ways. Thieves will approach and chat with you while they eyeball your stuff or see if you’re an easy mark. By deflecting, you show them a preemptive position.

A hustler may be figuring out if you’re a good mark or they may be distracting you while a partner in crime robs you. So, be aware of your surroundings, trust your gut feeling, and be firm in ending a conversation that seems weird.

Love’s truck stop © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

RULE #6: Buy something from the truck stop

Yes, truck stops are a free place to park overnight. However, out of respect for the truck stop owners, it shouldn’t be completely free. It’s proper etiquette to make a purchase whether it’s a snack, shower, or fuel. This consideration encourages truck stop owners to cater to RVers as well as truckers. Frankly, I can’t see myself stopping at a truck stop unless I’m in need of fuel.

If you want a completely free place to stay then find another alternative. At a truck stop, it’s common courtesy to at least buy something small.

RULE #7: Be nice to truckers

By treating truckers with respect and kindness, you will likely get it in return. Remember this, even if an irritated trucker approaches you! I’ve seen truckers quickly calm down if they realize that the RVer will happily right any wrong they might be doing.

I’ve also seen truckers be incredibly grateful if you give them priority over showers, fuel, etc. 

Just think of it this way: Truck stops are home away from home for truckers. How would you want someone to behave if a visitor came into your home? Behave that way!

Worth Pondering…

When I got outta High School I was driving a truck. I was just a poor boy from Memphis, Tennessee.

—Elvis Presley

Zion National Park: A Guide for RVers

Of Utah’s five national parks, Zion stands out for its geological wonders, a place where water and sand meet to form arguably the most dramatic landscape in the country

Amid all the natural wonders of Southern Utah, one park shines avove all others. It’s a national treasure created by water, rock, and time: Zion National Park.

Protected within the park’s 232 square miles is a spectacular cliff-and-canyons landscape and wilderness full of the unexpected. Sheer cliffs, massive buttresses, deep alcoves, and narrow canyons set this place apart from all others.

Hop on board nature’s highways as we travel through Mukuntuweap National Monument. Never heard of it? You probably know it as Zion National Park. Established in 1919, Zion ranks third of the most-visited national parks and has some stunning camping areas. This may be your first visit but others have camped, hunted, and lived there for more than 8,000 years. Let’s take a look as to why Puebloans, Paiute and Ute Indians, Franciscan missionaries, and Mormons saw the canyon as a sanctuary.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Getting there

If you are coming off I-15, take the Toquerville/La Verkin exit 27 onto Utah State Route 17 for 6 miles to La Verkin. At La Verkin turn onto State Route 9 for 26 miles to Springdale. That will bring you to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. 

If you are coming in from the east via U.S. Highway 89, turn onto State Route 9 at Mount Carmel Junction. This is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Tunnel completed in 1930.

Beware: The tunnel has restrictions on height and width. Once through the tunnel you will find several tightly winding switchbacks along the canyon’s rim.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tunnel escort

Most buses, RVs, trailers, and dual-wheeled trucks require an escort to travel through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. There is a $15 fee per vehicle in addition to the national park entrance fee. Visitors should pay this fee at the park’s east entrance before proceeding to the tunnel. Required for all vehicles and trailers 7 feet 10 inches in width and/or 11 feet 4 inches in height or larger. The fee is valid for two trips through the tunnel for the same vehicle within a 7-day period.

Note: Starting in mid-2026, Zion National Park will no longer allow oversized vehicles to travel the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, the scenic byway that bisects southern Utah’s top tourist draw. Instead, drivers of all vehicles heavier than 50,000 pounds, longer than 35 feet 9 inches, taller than 11 feet 4 inches, or wider than 7 feet 10 inches will be rerouted to roads around the park.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Camping in Zion National Park

The only two campgrounds offering RV sites are just outside of Springdale. These are Watchman Campground and South Campground. Watchman has 92 RV sites with only nine 50-amp; the rest are 30/20/15 amp. No other hookups are available. South Campground has 99 sites with NO hookups; generators OK with limited hours. All sites must be booked through recreation.gov well in advance.

Your best bet is to stay outside of the park. If you are coming in from the south side, Zion Canyon Campground sits just outside the entrance in Springdale. Just down State Route 9 in Virgin you will find Zion River Resort. Both of these come with good reviews. Remember, this is the popular side of Zion so it comes with lots of visitors and higher prices.

Be patient, as Springdale sports bumper-to-bumper traffic and few parking spots. It offers plenty of eats from fine dining to cheap eats. Get ready to wait a while as most fill up quickly. For breakfast, Oscar’s Café comes recommended. For dinner, there is a plethora of choices but do not pass up the Bit & Spur Restaurant especially the Chile Verde Pot Pie.

On the east side, a couple of parks are worth considering. East Zion RV Park in Mount Carmel is right on SR-9 with close access to Zion. Just up the road on US-89 is Mount Carmel Motel and RV Park. Being on the east side means both are reasonably priced. However, spaces are tight. Additionally, you have to drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway to get to and from Zion.

You are there, now what?

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visitor’s Centers

There are two visitor’s centers: Zion Canyon Visitor Center just inside the South Entrance of the park near Springdale and Kolob Canyon Visitor Center at the West Entrance of the park. 

Zion Canyon Visitor Center

If staying in Springdale, you definitely should take the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Visitor Center. If you plan on driving in the parking lot fills up early, by 10 a.m. Keep in mind that in 2022, Zion hosted 4.7 million visitors. Peak times find the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive accessible only by shuttle. It stops in nine different locations, six up-canyon and another three down-canyon.

Kolob Canyons Visitor Center

Located at the far northwestern corner of Zion it takes about an hour’s drive from Zion Canyon Visitor Center. The five-mile drive up Kolob Canyons Road gives panoramic views along with all-out points at trailheads. If you are on the east side, take U.S. Highway 89 to Utah Route 14 at Long Valley Junction for a 41-mile drive through the Dixie National Forest. If you have time, travel up Utah Route 148 (Patchwork Parkway) to Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hiking trails

Most visitors come to Zion for the hiking. Trails abound ranging from the easy Riverside Walk (2.2 miles, paved) at Temple of Sinawava to Canyon Overlook (1 mile, scenic) to The Narrows (16 miles, strenuous). You can stay on the relatively flat paved trail of Pa’rus (3.5 miles) following the Virgin River. For the adventurous, the infamous Angels Landing (5.4 miles) brings you along a narrow Ridgeline with 500-foot drop-offs on either side.

Always check in at the Visitors Center for trail conditions. Angels Landing requires a permit available by lottery and only online.

Flora and fauna

Any source of water in a desert draws attention from plants to wildlife. Of course, the Virgin River hosts a myriad of riparian plant life like cottonwood trees, cattails, and willows. However, the true uniqueness of Zion’s flora lies in the hanging baskets. One can find a complex garden along the rock walls thanks to seeps and springs found in the Navajo Sandstone.

Most Zion wildlife smartly keeps its distance from humans. Likewise, you will not come across much wildlife as many are nocturnal. Nightfall brings out the mountain lion, porcupine, skunk, raccoon, ringtail cats, and bats. Look for their tracks and scat near the water’s edge.

During the day you may see a desert bighorn sheep or mule deer. More likely, you will run across rock squirrels and chipmunks. And, do not overlook the Plateau Lizard or the Western Whiptail Lizard, both common along the trail.

Wait. What?! The Zion snail (Phyla zionis), found only in the hanging gardens of Zion is the smallest snail in the world, the size of a pinhead.

Zion National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Lose reception, connect to the Galaxy

National parks are some of the few places left in the country to see dark skies and many are working to protect this endangered resource. Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of dark skies while in the park—on any clear night look skyward to see views that rival the daytime scenery that Zion is known for.

This is our second national park along the Escalante Staircase. Next up our travels head to Bryce Canyon. 

Until then, Happy Travels, and if you find yourself in Zion National Park, happy camping.

Want more travel ideas for this area?

Worth Pondering…

It is a place where a family can rest at streamside after a pleasant morning hike.

It is a vast labyrinth of narrow canyons where one can become hopelessly lost, shrinking to invisibility beneath dark, towering walls of stone.

One may feel triumph and exhilaration, or awesome smallness atop Angels Landing; thirst and fatigue, or a rewarding weariness, on the return trek from the backcountry.

Perhaps one’s view of Zion is in the eyes of the beholder.

—Wayne L. Hamilton, The Sculpturing of Zion

How to Prevent Mold in Your RV during Storage

Prevent mold from growing in your RV this winter

Mold is the nemesis of every RV owner. It smells bad, causes health issues, contaminates the living space, and can be very difficult to completely remove. You can usually spot it before it gets too bad if you use your RV regularly but what about when you store it for long periods of time?

Exposure to mold can result in a variety of adverse health effects especially to those more sensitive (or allergic). Mold can lead to a stuffy nose, wheezing, and red or itchy eyes and skin. People with asthma can have intense reactions to mold especially if exposed to large amounts, like fever and shortness of breath. The best thing you can do to protect your family is prevent mold from growing in the first place.

Let’s cover how to keep mold out of your RV during storage.

Clean your RV before putting into storage © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Clean before storing

Mold thrives in damp, unclean areas. Even small spills and stains can introduce mold spores into the RV environment. This is why it’s so important to do a thorough cleaning of your trailer or motorhome before storing it. It’s a good idea to do this anyway so you won’t come back to a mess next time you want to use it.

Begin by removing all food and water from your vehicle (except for maybe shelf-stable canned goods). Dump all the holding tanks as well and thoroughly clean them out so there’a no bacteria or standing water left behind. Wipe down all your work surfaces with antibacterial wipes/sprays and make sure you pay special attention to cabinets, closets, or other closed-off and dark areas. 

Reduce moisture/humidity in the RV

Since moisture leads to mold the best way to prevent mold in your RV is to keep it as dry as possible during storage. Once everything is clean, thoroughly dry every surface paying extra close attention to the kitchen and bathroom because these are often sources of moisture. 

Check under the sinks for any leaky pipes and blow out your water lines. Double check for any leaks or signs of standing water.

DampRid Humidifier © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Run a dehumidifier

Continuing with the point above, it’s a good idea to set up your RV with a dehumidifier while it’s in storage. If you’re storing your RV indoors (whether in a garage or a storage facility), see if it’s possible to run a dehumidifier occasionally. This will help prevent moisture from accumulating and will make the interior less receptive to mold.

Use covers that won’t trap moisture

If you are planning to store your RV outdoors or in an open-air storage shed, you’ll need to know how to keep mold out of your camper during storage. Campers that are left outside are more exposed to shifting levels of humidity and temperature fluctuations. 

RV covers are always good to use when you leave your camper outside but you will need a cover with certain features for long-term outdoor storage. In addition to providing protection against snow, bugs, and dirt, this cover should help regulate the moisture in your RV.

RVs that are stored outdoors for long periods of time should have covers that won’t trap moisture. These covers need to be somewhat breathable so the vehicle can release moisture that might accumulate over time. If you keep your RV in a garage or an indoor storage facility, you won’t need to worry about this step. 

Create ventilation

If you want to know how to keep mold out of your RV during storage you need to understand that different climates and times of year call for different solutions. Generally, it’s best to seal up your RV during storage so that no pests or dirt can get in.

But if mold is one of your main concerns then you may want to leave a window or vent cracked open. Doing this helps your RV get some airflow and ventilation. You can also run your RV’s heater or A/C so that the air doesn’t become stale and moist. 

If you live in an area that is particularly wet or humid cracking a window during storage isn’t a good idea. You can use this solution if it’s warm and dry outside so it’s best suited for summer storage. During the fall, spring, or winter it usually isn’t a good idea. 

DampRid humidifier © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Use indoor storage (if possible)

One of the best ways to keep mold out of your camper during storage is to use an indoor storage facility. These can be somewhat expensive and may have limited availability so it isn’t always an option. However, if it is a practical solution for you, these can be awesome.

These are temperature-regulated and won’t have fluctuating levels of humidity. If your RV is constantly warming up and cooling down that’s an opportunity for condensation to form and mold to grow. But in a storage facility you can rest assured that your RV will be kept safe and dry until you’re ready to reclaim it.

If you can’t afford an indoor facility or just want to do it yourself you can also store your RV in a garage, barn, or other building. This can also be a good solution because it will give you some control over the situation and you’ll be able to run the A/C and dehumidifier as often as you want. 

Spread desiccants around the RV

Finally as an extra protective measure you can spread some desiccants around your RV before closing it up for storage. Desiccants are materials that absorb moisture from the surrounding air and prevent small areas from becoming too humid.

Place desiccants around areas that might let in outside moisture. For instance, place them near sinks, windows, and vents. It’s also smart to introduce desiccants to dark and enclosed areas like cabinets, storage spaces, and the space below the sink. Mold thrives in warm, dark places, so it’s best to think ahead and suck out all the moisture you can.

You can use desiccants like silica packets, bentonite clay, and diatomaceous earth. There are also RV-specific options like DampRid Fragrance Free Disposable Moisture Absorber. It’s easy to scatter some desiccants around and then clean them up when you’re ready to head out in your RV again. 

DampRid humidifier © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Inspect your RV at least once a month

You may be tempted to shut the door on your storage facility and not check back on your RV until the weather warms and you’re ready to hit the open road again. However, if there’s mold in your RV, it could grow during that time and cause a lot of damage. That’s why it’s a good idea to check your RV once a month. 

Visit your storage facility and give your RV a visual inspection. Look for signs of moisture. Smell the air inside your RV. If there’s enough mildew, your nose can be a great detector. If you’re using moisture packets, consider replacing them. Now is also a good time to run a dehumidifier, a heater, or a fan for a few hours before you lock up again.

Dealing with mold is never fun so hopefully this guide helped you discover how to keep mold out of your camper during storage. 

Check this out to learn more:

Worth Pondering…

The art of life lies in a constant readjustment to our surroundings.

—Okakura Kazuko

The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway

This beautiful 469-mile route connects Great Smoky Mountain and Shenandoah National Parks

This 469-mile highway also known as America’s Favorite Drive is a unit of the National Park Service (NPS) running north and south connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. I get excited about this particular byway as an avenue of adventure anchoring some of the best scenic overlooks and hiking in the Southern Appalachian mountains.

I don’t even think of the Blue Ridge Parkway as a road but a 469-mile-long park.

For the most part, the Blue Ridge Parkway is mountainous hugging the ridge lines of some of the tallest mountain ranges east of the Mississippi but it also drops down to river valleys and cruises through working farms amid rolling pastures. There are no stop signs or traffic lights on the entire route.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

When was the Blue Ridge Parkway built?

Construction of the parkway started in 1935 as a Depression-era project meant to create local jobs but also to give the country a drivable destination in and of itself. In the 1930s, motoring around in a car was as much about fun as it was commuting and the parkway was conceived of for recreation: stringing together scenic overlooks, picnic areas, and parks with hiking trails.

It took 52 years to finish the road with the last section, the Linn Cove Viaduct completed in 1987. But the intention is still obvious today almost 90 years after the first mile of pavement was poured. I get excited about this road not because of the national parks on either end but what’s along the way.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a bit of a conundrum. Yes, it connects two well-known national parks but it’s actually the slowest way to travel between those two points thanks to low speed limits and near-endless curves. Yes, it’s the most visited unit in the National Park System welcoming 16.7 million people last year (2013), more than even its southern neighbor Great Smoky Mountains National Park which had a huge 13.3 million. Still, many people outside of the Southern Appalachians have never heard of it.

Drive the parkway in the summer and it’s a roll-your-windows-down-and-cruise experience. Hurrying is counterintuitive to the intent which was for motorists to meander and enjoy. Here’s a guide to my favorite adventures.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The best time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Much of the parkway closes for winter usually from November until April. Spring is fine if you want to beat the crowds but the higher elevations can still feel wintry as the hardwoods are bare until mid May. Summer is beautiful, particularly at the higher elevations which stay cool even during July and August.

Everyone goes crazy for the rhododendrons which bloom pink and white anywhere from May into July depending on the elevation (the higher the slope, the later it will bloom). You’ll also find meadows of blueberries and blackberries that ripen in June and July depending on the elevation. Show up in fall and the entire landscape is ablaze with the colors of the hardwoods. The foliage lights up early (late September, early October) at the higher peaks like Mount Mitchell.

Road closures on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway at times shut down for maintenance. Keep an eye on the parkway’s website which lists all active closures while planning your trip. But don’t let one or two closures deter you; there’s always roadwork going on here somewhere.

Logistics

The Blue Ridge Parkway has no entry fee and while it has a beginning and an end there’s no need for a through-drive. Multiple access points mean you can pick one section to explore which is how we approached the parkway drive. If you intend to drive the entire 469 miles in one shot take your time. Give yourself several days especially to hike and explore.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia

Virginia contains just over 200 miles of the parkway. The road begins in Rockfish Gap where Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park ends. There are some mountainous miles but in this state the road is mainly pastoral cruising through small ranches and family farms. With all of the wooden fences and country stores this part of the road can feel like traveling back in time in the best way.

The best hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia

Humpback Rocks (Milepost 6)

Just six miles from the northern terminus of the parkway is one of the best short hikes in the state. The two-mile out-and-back Humpback Rocks Trail climbs 740 feet to a protruding rock outcropping with views that take in the southern part of Shenandoah National Park, the mountains of George Washington National Forest, and the farms of the Shenandoah Valley.

Sharp Top Mountain (Milepost 86)

This is a tough 2.8-mile out-and-back on Sharp Top Trail which climbs 1,300 feet to the craggy peak of Sharp Top Mountain (3,875 feet) with a view of Abbott Lake and the historic Peaks of Otter Lodge below. The summit is a jumble of boulders but you’ll also see an old, now shuttered, stone restaurant that sold concessions during the 1950s and ‘60s. The ascent is a mix of double track and stone steps so you might feel like you’re on a Stairmaster. It’s a popular hike and there’s even a shuttle that could take you most of the way to the top but you’ll want to do the steps.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Rock Castle Gorge (Milepost 169)

Looking for a challenge? This 10.8-mile loop begins as an easy stroll through meadows interspersed with patches of forest but quickly drops into a narrow canyon cut by Rock Castle Creek. Early settlers named the gorge Rock Castle not because of any notable formations but for the six-sided crystals they found in the creek which they thought looked like castle turrets.

The gorge offers steep walls full of rhododendron and ferns with a jungle hike feel rising for several hundred feet on either side of the creek. There’s designated backcountry camping roughly halfway through the full hike. A favorite part of the trail is the first two miles with their broad, grassy pastures. Some of those meadows are still active cattle farms (watch for cow poop) while others are the sites of historic settlements that date back to the 1700s. Native Americans hunted and lived in and around the gorge for thousands of years before that.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The best gateway towns in Virginia along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Access roads will deliver you to the many small communities throughout the 200-plus miles of the parkway in Virginia but the burgs below are favorites.

Roanoke

More city than town, Roanoke has almost 100,000 residents making it the biggest city on this path with a vibrant beer and food scene. Big Lick Brewing Company has a massive beer garden right in the heart of downtown. Alexander’s is the most lauded restaurant in town with a constantly rotating menu that leans heavily into seafood and offerings like lump crab cakes and BBQ shrimp.

Floyd

This tiny hamlet is the quintessential small farm town complete with a lively country store, Floyd Country Store open since 1910. You can grab a snack and even catch live music here on Friday nights. There are also breweries, wineries, and distilleries around. Check out Buffalo Mountain Brewery for traditional German lagers.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina

After entering the state, the parkway quickly ascends to the ridge lines and mostly stays up high all the way until its crescendo at the border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The road contours around a series of 5,000- and 6,000-foot peaks even skirting the 6,683-foot Mount Mitchell—the highest mountain east of the Mississippi. There are so many big views from overlooks; you could almost grow bored of them. Almost!

The best hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina

Tanawha Trail (MP 304)

The entire Tanawha Trail runs for 13.5 miles along the flank of Grandfather Mountain essentially paralleling the Blue Ridge Parkway. The path is super technical thanks to all of the rock steps and boulder hopping and completing the whole thing would be very worthy but you may not have time (or stamina) for a 27-mile out-and-back. Instead, focus on the five-mile round-trip slice of this trail that begins at the Linn Cove Viaduct Visitor Center and climbs to Rough Ridge where a granite outcropping provides 360-degree views that include the parkway below and a sea of green slopes.

One of the coolest views comes just a half-mile after you begin when you’ll find a well-worn and obvious short side trail that leads to a boulder with an incredible view of the Linn Cove Viaduct, a sinuous bridge that curves around the rocky side of Grandfather Mountain.

Black Mountain Crest Trail (MP 355.4)

Mount Mitchell State Park contains the tallest mountain on the East Coast. Standing on top of Mitchell is a must and you can drive within 100 yards of the summit but would share that view with dozens of other people. Sure, do it (the Mount Mitchell Summit Trail is .2 miles long) and get the picture but here is another option.

Begin at the trailhead for the 11.5-mile Black Mountain Crest Trail which traces the crest of the Black Mountain Range heading south from the Mount Mitchell summit parking lot for the chance to bag a series of 6,000-foot mountains in one walk. This three-mile out-and-back from Mitchell on the Black Mountain Crest will take you across two more 6,000 footers, Big Tom and Mount Craig.

Graveyard Fields (MP 418.8)

Give the giant views a break with this three-mile lollipop loop that takes in three waterfalls and a meadow with excellent blueberry picking in July. The highlight of the hike is the swimming hole at the base of Second Falls along the Yellowstone Prong River.

The trailhead parking lot may be crowded but you’ll find solitude if you head up to Upper Falls which most people skip since Second Falls is much closer to the trailhead. You might want to bring your fly rod: on the way to Upper Falls are lonely stretches of the Yellowstone that house brook trout.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The best gateway towns in North Carolina along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Blowing Rock

Nestled between MP 291 and MP 294, Blowing Rock is an upscale resort town known for its food and quick access to the outdoors. Main Street is packed with boutiques and restaurants while wellness resorts dot the surrounding landscape. Grab a wood-fired pizza at Bistro Roca and meander over to Blowing Rock Ale House for a beer.

Asheville

The parkway curves around Asheville giving motorists quick access to one of the South’s most beloved communities. The beer scene is off the charts here (Burial Beer is a favorite) and spend some time walking around downtown and see the various murals painted by Native Americans as part of the Indigenous Walls Project. If you’re feeling sore from all the hiking and cycling you’ve been doing, pop into Sauna House for a sauna/cold plunge pairing.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Where to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway

You can drop off the parkway into adjacent towns the whole way but two lodges and eight established campgrounds are located directly on the road.

Otter Creek Campground (MP 60)

Sitting at the lowest elevation on the Parkway, Otter Creek Campground gives you the chance to enjoy a lush valley floor complete with a babbling creek running between sites. There are 39 sites you can reserve six months in advance and 29 spots available first-come, first-served ($20 a night).

Peaks of Otter Lodge (MP 86)

Sitting on the edge of Abbott Lake in Virginia, the Peaks of Otter Lodge offers quick access to miles of hiking trails (see Sharp Top Trail, above) and a good restaurant that serves three hot meals a day. Rates start at $138 and every room has a view of the lake.

Julian Price Campground (MP 297.1)

You can’t go wrong with any campground on the parkway but you’ll love Julian Price because it sits on the shores of Julian Price Lake where you can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle the calm waters which are surrounded by forested slopes. It’s a large campground with 115 sites available to reserve six months in advance while 75 more are first-come, first-served ($20 a night).

Pisgah Inn (Exit at Milepost 411.8)

The Pisgah Inn offers a ridge-top experience sitting on the edge of the parkway above 5,000 feet with views of Pisgah National Forest from its observation deck. Rates start at $250 a night and reservations can be hard to get so try to book six months in advance. Even if you don’t snag a room at the Pisgah Inn try to have a meal at the restaurant where most tables have amazing views.

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular destination for vacationers who RV. Nothing beats a beautiful, wooded drive in your home-away-from-home!

Here are some helpful resources:

Worth Pondering…

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
Take me home, country roads.

—John Denver

Choosing the Right Hiking Trail

How to find your perfect hiking trail anywhere

Starting a hiking adventure is not just about donning sturdy boots and heading into the wilderness; it requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Choosing the right hiking trail involves assessing variables such as distance, difficulty, elevation, and personal fitness levels.

This article aims to guide hiking enthusiasts through the process of selecting the perfect trail for their needs, offering valuable tips for finding local trails, and utilizing resources to gather essential information.

Hiking to Clingman’s Dome, Great Smoky Mountains National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Factors to consider

How much time you have

Do you have a couple hours or a full day? The amount of time you have can determine where you go. Don’t forget to factor in how long it takes to get to and from the trailhead.

Your fitness level

Honestly assess what kind of shape you’re in. You want to have an enjoyable time out there rather than suffering through a long, strenuous hike that you’re not prepared for. If you’re not in the shape of your life, don’t be dismayed: There are hikes for everyone.

Distance

The length of a hiking trail is a crucial factor that directly correlates with the time commitment required. Novice hikers may opt for shorter trails ranging from 1 to 3 miles while experienced adventurers might seek longer, more challenging routes. Consider your fitness level, the time available, and the overall goals of your hiking excursion when choosing a trail length.

Hiking Snow Canyon State Park, Utah © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Difficulty level

Trails are often categorized into different difficulty levels ranging from easy to strenuous. Novices should start with easy trails to build confidence and gradually progress to more challenging ones. Factors influencing difficulty include the terrain, elevation gain, and technical features. Be honest with yourself about your abilities and choose a trail that aligns with your skill level.

Elevation gain

Elevation gain refers to the total vertical distance ascended during a hike. Some trails remain relatively flat while others involve steep climbs. Consider your fitness level and how well you tolerate changes in elevation. A gradual ascent is generally easier on the body while steep inclines can provide a more strenuous workout.

Terrain

The type of terrain a trail covers significantly impacts the hiking experience. Trails can meander through lush forests, rocky mountain paths, sandy deserts, or coastal landscapes. Think about your preferences and comfort level with different terrains when selecting a trail. Additionally, consider the season and how weather conditions may affect the trail’s terrain.

Weather conditions

Weather is a crucial factor in hiking safety. Check the forecast for the day of your hike and choose a trail that aligns with the expected conditions. Some trails may be unsafe or closed during certain weather events such as heavy rain or snow. Always be prepared for unexpected changes in weather by dressing in layers and carrying essential gear.

Logistics

Certain hikes require a bit more planning. For instance, if you end up doing a hike that starts and finishes at different places you’ll need to shuttle cars to your start and end points.

Hiking Catalina State Park, Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Finding local trails

Online trail databases

Utilize online platforms and databases dedicated to hiking trails. Websites like AllTrails, Hiking Project, and TrailLink offer comprehensive information about trails worldwide. Users can filter trails based on distance, difficulty, and other factors, read reviews, and view maps.

Local hiking clubs

Joining a local hiking club or community is an excellent way to discover hidden gems in your area. Experienced hikers often share their favorite trails and may organize group hikes providing an opportunity to learn from seasoned enthusiasts and make new connections.

National and State Parks

National and state parks are treasure troves of diverse hiking trails. Explore their official websites or visitor centers to access trail maps, information on trail conditions, and any permits or regulations you need to be aware of before embarking on your hike.

Social media and forums

Social media platforms and hiking forums can be valuable resources for discovering lesser-known trails. Join hiking groups on platforms like Facebook or Reddit where members often share photos, trail recommendations, and firsthand experiences.

Hiking Badlands National Park, South Dakota © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Local outdoor retailers

Visit outdoor retailers in your area such as REI or local gear shops. These establishments often have knowledgeable staff who can provide advice on nearby trails, offer trail maps, and recommend essential gear for your chosen hike.

Word of mouth

If you have friends who like to hike, ask them to suggest some locations for you.

Talk to locals

Contact a local hiking organization or call a ranger station in the area where you want to hike. Rangers typically have up-to-date trail conditions and are skilled at suggesting hikes for all skill levels.

Selecting the right hiking trail is a crucial step in ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling outdoor experience. By considering factors such as distance, difficulty, elevation, terrain, and weather conditions, hikers can tailor their choice to match their fitness level and personal preferences.

Hiking Appalachian Trail © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Trail etiquette

Whether you’ve been hiking for years or you’re gearing up for your first trek, it’s valuable to know some basic trail etiquette.

Right of way

Following these rules of the trail can help everyone get along.

Hikers vs. hikers: Hikers going uphill have the right of way. You may see uphill hikers let others come downhill while they take a breather but remember that’s the uphill hiker’s decision.

Hikers vs. bikers: Mountain bikers are generally expected to yield to hikers. However, because mountain bikers are usually moving faster than hikers it can be easier for hikers to step aside and yield the right of way.

Hikers vs. horses: Horses get the right of way. If you’re sharing the trail with equestrians give them a wide berth when you’re passing each other and don’t make abrupt movements. It’s generally recommended to step off the trail to the downhill side while yielding to a horse.

Leave No Trace: While most of us don’t intend to harm our natural surroundings, we may not know how to preserve them or we’re simply overlooking a few important behaviors. Leave No Trace provides seven principles that provide guidance for enjoying the outdoors in a sustainable way that avoids human impacts. For more on the seven principles read Leave No Trace 7 Principles.

Peralta Trailhead, Arizona © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Utilizing online resources, joining local hiking communities, and exploring national and state parks are effective ways to discover and learn about the myriad trails available. Whether you’re a novice seeking a leisurely stroll or an experienced adventurer craving a challenging ascent, careful trail selection is the key to unlocking the wonders of the great outdoors.

Here are some helpful resources for hikers of all levels of experience:

Worth Pondering…

As soon as he saw the Big Boots, Pooh knew that an Adventure was about to happen, and he brushed the honey off his nose with the back of his paw and spruced himself up as well as he could, so as to look Ready for Anything.

—A. A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

6 Ways to Prep for the Next RV Season

The camping season will soon be ending but it’s never too soon to start preparing for next year. So, here’s six ways to prep for the next RV season.

The fall season has arrived with cooler winds and shorter days. The leaves are putting on their annual show and pumpkin is once again an ingredient in everything. It’s time for RV owners to take their cue from Mother Nature and make their own preparations for winter.

Let’s face it—having an RV is pretty amazing and liberating. But as any RV aficionado will tell you, once the camping season draws to a close, it can get pretty gloomy. After all, knowing that you won’t be able to start your rig up and go traveling for a few months is not fun; especially if you’re someone who’s used to being out on the road. But whether you like it or not—winterization is a real thing.

And if you want your RV to be fully functional and ready for new awesome adventures come springtime, you’ll need to do everything you can to prepare your RV for storage.

Another RV travel season has come to an end. Fall is now wrapping up, and many of us have parked our RVs for the last time this year or will be doing so in the next few weeks. Most of us are already dreaming about spring. While the driving part might have ended for the season, there is still work that needs to be done. Sure, the season has just ended, but it’s never too soon to start preparing for next year.

So, here are six ways to prep for the next RV season.

Upgrade electrical needs © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Fix the items that need repair

A lot of miles have been driven and let’s face it, some wear and tear has happened. The good news…RVs are tough and meant to be used. Now that you have some time on your hands, take inventory of things that could use a little attention. The off season is the perfect time to fix the items that need to be repaired. 

Not only that but fixing minor or not-so-minor issues during the stationary period will ensure a safer driving experience and an RV that will last a bit longer due to proper maintenance and care.

Plus, looking a bit further down the road when the time comes to sell and upgrade, your RV will be in the best shape possible ensuring the most value gained from the sale of a well-maintained RV.

Lots of good seems to come from having the repairs done.

Upgrade appliances © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Upgrade appliances

Buying the newest-model RV appliances is a great way to ensure the next travel season is a smooth one. By swapping out older appliances for new ones, there will be less worry about the working condition of older appliances and more peace of mind. Plus, each year manufacturers of appliances add a new bell or whistle giving you another reason why upgrading is a good idea.

3. Replace your mattress

Standard RV mattresses have such a bad reputation that RVers have come to accept they’ll have to replace them sooner rather than later. In fact, experienced RVers will advise newbies to budget for a new mattress when purchasing an RV (new or used!).

For a step-by-step process for your RV mattress, check out How to Replace your RV Mattress.

Plan your spring RV journey © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Set a travel plan

This is the best part of the down season; mapping out the next journeys for an upcoming travel season is an adventure in itself. It won’t be difficult to spend hours researching travel routes and planning a good itinerary that includes all the unique stores, landmarks, and the locals’ favorite cafes.

Whether you are taking a route unseen to you before or returning to that tried-and-true favorite destination, creating a travel plan is not only necessary but fun! Daydreaming about trips to come will get us through the cold, lonely winter months.

Daydreaming aside, there is one more thing to do once the itinerary is set; make reservations! We all saw last season how much of an increase many RV parks had in guests—so many more RVs on the road and so many more neighbors at those RV parks. Based on that, and the likelihood that next year will be a bit busier, getting that perfect site reserved at that must-have resort is key. The sooner, the better!

If choosing new parks to stay at, be sure to know if you can reserve a lakefront site or if they offer outdoor kitchens, etc. You will want to know about all the extras before making the reservation.

Along with the resort reservations, lock down the dates and times of live shows and your favorite table at that one restaurant you can’t wait to go back to again. Fill out your itinerary with as many reservations as you would like accounting for as little or as much free time as your vacation desires.

5. Sell your RV and buy a new one?

Perhaps appliances aren’t the only thing that needs an upgrade. Been wondering whether to sell your RV and buy a different one? Now might be the time to do it! With higher-than-normal inventory, many RVs are being sold at prices not seen for a few years.

Traveling down the road in an RV is all about luxury and convenience. By owning the newest model, you can be sure all aspects of the interior and exterior will offer top-of-the-line comfort and reliability.

Stock up on needed supplies © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Stock up on needed supplies

There are always supplies that are necessary to keep on hand during trips and those should be purchased and stocked. There are random things that you really don’t think about until you are missing them.

Stocking up on supplies such as matches, toothpicks, propane, and similar items during the off-season will mean one less thing to worry about once the season gets closer. And, you will have already finished a preseason chore before it arrives.

Bigger-ticket items to purchase might include tires, a new portable BBQ grill, or new bedding and pillows for the RV.

Less glamourous items to buy would be items such as jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, surge protectors, a new sewer hose, and a potable water hose. Bug spray, sunblock, a fully stocked first-aid kit, and batteries are odds and ends to stock up on. A properly working can opener, bright flashlights, and a fire extinguisher are a few more items that should be added to the supply list.

Don’t forget to winterize © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Bonus tip: Don’t forget to winterize

This one seems like a no-brainer, but every year we hear horror stories. This is something we all know we need to do. No matter if you are a procrastinator or an early bird, ensuring your RV is winterized before the freezing temperatures set in is what really matters most. It is a process, but an ounce of prevention, as they say…

Not sure where to start? Check out these articles that lead you through the steps required to protect your RV through the cold weather:

Worth Pondering…

And finally Winter, with its bitin’, whinin’ wind, and all the land will be mantled with snow.

—Roy Bean