Category Archives: The Great Outdoors

Beyond the Lights: Discovering America’s Best National and State Parks for Stargazing

07 Wednesday Jun 2023

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There’s nothing quite like the magic of gazing up at the night sky. As you lay back and marvel at the stars sparkling above you, it’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder and awe. For RVers, camping under the stars is one of the greatest joys of life on the road. Whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply appreciate the beauty of the night sky, national and state parks across the country offer some of the most breathtaking stargazing experiences in the world.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top national and state parks for stargazing in the U.S. These parks provide unparalleled views of the celestial wonders above. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a stargazing adventure like no other – in some of the most awe-inspiring destinations the nation has to offer.

Top National and State Parks for Stargazing

Stephen C. Foster State Park, Georgia

Located in the heart of the Okefenokee Swamp, Stephen C. Foster State Park is one of the darkest places in the southeastern United States, making it an ideal location for stargazing. The park offers ranger-led astronomy programs, and late summer is the perfect time to visit and see the Milky Way.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park isn’t just famous for its spectacular vistas – it’s also a fantastic destination for stargazing. With its remote location and unobstructed skies, the park draws both amateur and professional astronomers to observe the heavens. Don’t miss the annual star party, a special event that celebrates the wonder of the cosmos.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is one of the most visited national parks on the East Coast and for good reason. Its stunning vistas and rugged coastline make it a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. But it’s also a great spot for stargazing. Visitors can explore the night sky on their own at prime locations like Cadillac Summit, Seawall, Jordan Pond, Ocean Path, and Sand Beach.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park offers some of the best stargazing in the country, with the least light pollution of any other national park unit in the lower 48 states. The sparse human occupation of the region contributes to the park’s truly dark sky, making it a refreshing exception to urban areas with abundant light pollution. Visitors can enjoy a variety of free, regularly scheduled night sky interpretive programs offered by park rangers and volunteers, including star parties, moonlight walks, and telescope viewings.

Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National Park is a stargazing paradise with its remote location and minimal light pollution. The park is also the largest Dark Sky designated area. It’s no surprise that Death Valley National Park is one of the best places for stargazing in the country. In addition to ranger-led stargazing programs throughout the year, the park hosts a Dark Sky Festival yearly. Despite being known as the hottest national park, the cool nighttime temperatures make stargazing an even more appealing activity.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Cherry Springs State Park s located at the top of a 2,300-foot high mountain in Potter County, Pennsylvania, surrounded by a relatively undeveloped state forest and shielded from nearby communities in valleys, creating little light pollution. Three areas of the park are available for stargazing: the Night Sky Public Viewing Area for short-term stargazing, the Rustic Campground for casual overnight stargazing, and the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field for serious stargazers with equipment. Lights should have red filters, and white light is prohibited.

Tips for Stargazing in National and State Parks

Planning and Preparing for a Night Under the Stars

Stargazing is a wonderful activity that can help you connect with the beauty and vastness of the universe. Check out these helpful tips for stargazing in national and state parks, and get ready to be amazed by the celestial wonders above.

  • Check the park’s stargazing events calendar before you go to see if any ranger-led programs or guided tours are available.
  • White light can be very bright and ruin your night vision, making it harder to see the stars. Use a flashlight or headlamp with a red filter instead, as red light doesn’t affect your night vision as much.
  • You don’t need a huge telescope to enjoy stargazing. A pair of binoculars or a small telescope can be just as effective for spotting stars, planets, and other celestial objects.
  • There are several stargazing apps available that can help you identify constellations, planets, and other stellar objects. Some popular apps include SkyView, Star Walk, and Night Sky.
  • Stargazing can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, so bring a blanket or lawn chair to make yourself comfortable while you gaze up at the stars.
  • Even in the summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially in areas with low humidity. Bring warm clothing, including jackets, hats, and gloves, to stay comfortable while you stargaze.
  • If you want to learn more about the night sky, consider bringing a star chart or field guide to help you identify constellations, stars, and other astronomic objects.

Discover More

Share Your Favorite National Park Stargazing Spots

Stargazing in national parks is a magical experience everyone should add to their RVing itinerary. The national and state parks highlighted in this article offer some of the most spectacular views of the night sky, from the dazzling Milky Way to shooting stars and constellations.

But there are countless other parks across the country that provide equally stunning stargazing opportunities. Have you visited any parks that should be on our list? Or do you have any tips or tricks for stargazing? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Let’s share our knowledge and inspire others to explore the beauty of the cosmos from some of the most incredible destinations in the nation.

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Natalie Henley is a freelance writer and has also been full-time RVing with her husband and pets since 2015. She covers a wide range of topics, including RV lifestyle, RVing tips, DIY projects, RV news, and more. You can follow their adventures and RV-related tips on their blog, henleyshappytrails.com, as well as their YouTube Channel, also called Henley’s Happy Trails. In addition, she writes for various RV-related blogs and marketing outlets and is the co-author of Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It, available on Amazon.

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5 Desert Southwest National Parks You MUST Visit

16 Monday Jan 2023

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Winter is here, and that means RVers need to A) stay south to keep warm, B) find ways to keep their RVs cozy and safe through the winter weather, or C) winterize their rigs for the season. Our family always chooses to stay south in order to keep enjoying traveling in our RV, and this year we decided to try out the beginning of the cold season in the Desert Southwest.

Generally, we head to Florida for the cold season, so our time spent in the desert during the winter this time around has been a huge change of pace. That said, we’re having an absolute blast and we 100% recommend it to anyone. Some of our favorite things that we’ve seen so far have been the awesome national parks in the area.

Below are the parks we’ve visited (and plan to visit), as well as what we loved about each.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

The first step on our winter trek to the west was Carlsbad Caverns National Park. This place was incredible, and since you are in a cave—where the temperature doesn’t really change much anyway—you can totally visit the park on a cold day, making it a great option if a cold front comes through.

Since we were visiting with an antsy 3-year-old, we chose to take the self-guided tour of the “Big Room.” That said, there are also ranger-guided tours that sound totally awesome. We did have to make a reservation beforehand—yes, even for the self-guided tour—so be sure you do that.

In addition to the amazing cave, this park is also home to some beautiful hiking trails and a great visitor center with tons of displays and information. Make sure you schedule enough time to explore those.

Note: We missed this since we visited during the winter, but if you happen to visit between late May and October, you’ll also want to experience the Bat Flight Program. I hear it’s phenomenal!

Where to Stay

For this part of our trip, we chose to stay on the BLM land right outside of the park. There are also two free established dry campgrounds right by the park. Look for Sunset Reef Campground or Chosa Primitive Campground to find this free camping.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Located not too far from Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park was also well worth visiting. This is an absolutely beautiful mountainous park that is a hiker’s dream come true.

Unfortunately, we are limited when it comes to the kinds of hikes we can take because we have the aforementioned 3-year-old in tow, but we thoroughly enjoyed the mile-long McKittrick Canyon Nature Loop Trail, which gave us some great views and allowed us to get up close and personal with the local flora.

We also spent some time in both the Pine Springs and McKittrick Canyon Visitor Centers. We enjoyed the exhibits in the Pine Springs Location as well as the short video at the McKittrick Canyon center.

Where to Stay

We didn’t move our RV to visit Guadalupe Mountains, National Park. You could absolutely visit this park from either of the free dry campgrounds mentioned above.

White Sands National Park

Our next stop was Alamogordo, NM, where we visited White Sands, National Park. We first stopped at Walmart to pick up some cheap sand sleds (which they stock year-round) then made a trip to the visitor center to buy sled wax from the gift shop and watch the park video. The kids also really enjoyed the exhibits in this visitor center and we spent some time checking those out.

We didn’t hike while in White Sands. Instead, we headed to the Interdune Boardwalk, chose a place we thought looked nice, and hopped off the trail to do some sand sledding. This was so much fun! The sand was cool to the touch and it was so fine and soft that it made it possible to sled quite fast.

We had a blast sledding the dunes and admiring the beauty of the bright white sand against the bright blue desert sky. We all agreed this was a new favorite park and that we would definitely return to explore more.

Where to Stay

We wanted a break from boondocking, so we stayed at Oliver Lee Memorial State Park. The price was right (I think we paid less than $20 a night), we had water and electric hookups, the dump station was clean (albeit with limited hours, so don’t expect to dump as you come in after sunset), and the bathhouses were great.

We wouldn’t hesitate to stay at this state park again, but there was also boondocking available right outside of the park if you prefer a free option.

Saguaro National Park

Next up was Saguaro National Park. This was an absolutely stunning place, and seeing the saguaro cacti in person was just incredible. We went to both the Rincon Mountain and Red Hills visitor centers and enjoyed them both. Each one has a nice video as well as exhibits about the park.

The view from the Red Hills location is spectacular, but we also adored the cactus garden at the Rincon Mountain center. We recommend checking out both locations if you can, but if you have to choose just one, go to the Rincon Mountain Center.

Why do we recommend the Rincon Mountain Center? Because of the amazing drive, we took from that location. This visitor center is home to the Cactus Forest Loop Drive. We did the loop, stopping for short hikes and photos along the way, and absolutely loved it. Definitely a highlight of the trip!

Where to Stay

We ended up boondocking again for this part of our trip. We stayed at the Snyder Hill BLM and it was fine, but not great. The “roads” to find a campsite was really just paths and were very rough. Besides that, it was the most crowded boondocking spot we’ve ever stayed in.

Would we stay there again? Probably for a few days to visit Tucson again, but not for long. If we were staying for more than a few nights, we’d try out The RV Park at Pima County Fairgrounds, which is supposed to be decent.

Joshua Tree National Park

Last on my list is Joshua Tree National Park. To be honest, we haven’t made it to this park yet this year, but we’ve been before. Our last visit was several years ago, but I remember loving this park and can’t wait to see it again.

One of the things I remember loving most about this park was that it is a dark sky park. This means that if you go out after dark, you are treated to some of the most beautiful night skies you will ever see. We will absolutely be doing this again.

Where to Stay

Our current plan is to stay at Palm Springs RV Resort which is part of our Thousand Trails membership. That said, we happen to know that there is plenty of good boondocking just outside of the park, so if you’re looking for free options, you might want to start there.

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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10 Tips For a Safe & Enjoyable Day On The Trails

07 Wednesday Dec 2022

Posted by in Healthy Lifestyle, RV Newbie, The Great Outdoors

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No matter who you are, hiking can be a wonderful form of exercise. Being cooped up in the gym is one thing, but being out in nature is quite another.

If this is your first time hiking, you will want to be prepared for life in the great outdoors, but getting started is not as challenging as you might think. Here are some basic tips to get you out there, and where the adventure takes you is up to you.

1. Invest In The Right Equipment

If you hit the trails in a bad pair of hiking boots, your feet will let you know. Investing in the right equipment, including a sturdy pair of hiking boots and a comfortable backpack, is absolutely essential.

2. Find An Easy Trail For Your First Time Out

Hiking can be a wonderful form of exercise, but you do not want to get in over your head, or your hiking boots. It is best to choose an easy trail for your first time out; you can work up to the harder trails later on.

3. Research The Local Hiking Hot Spots

As a new hiker, you will want to do your homework, including researching the local trails. Be sure you know where the trailheads are, where to park, and other essential information before you head out for the first time.

4. Watch The Weather Forecast

A sudden thunderstorm can turn an easy hike into a much harder one, washing away parts of the trail and leaving normally navigable areas nearly impossible to traverse. Be sure to check the weather forecast often to ensure your hike goes off without a hitch.

5. Stick To The Marked Trails

As your skill level increases, you may feel more comfortable with an off-trail adventure, but for now, it is best to stick to the marked path. Pay close attention to the signs posted at various junctions, as they will alert you to smaller trails that could be too difficult for a beginner.

6. Dress in Layers

Temperatures can be unpredictable on the trail, and it is important to be prepared. Dressing in layers that can be put on and taken off quickly is important, so choose your hiking wardrobe with that in mind.  

7. Pack High-Energy Snacks & Lots of Water.

Drinking water from streams is risky, so make sure you pack in lots of water. You will also want to energize yourself with nutritious snacks, including nuts, seeds, and trail mix.

8. Bring Extra Clothes & Wet Weather Gear

You never know when the rain will strike, so be prepared with a slicker or lightweight raincoat. You will also want to pack a change of clothes in your backpack just in case.

9. Bring a Friend Along For The Fun

Hiking alone can get boring, so bring a friend along to enjoy the surroundings with you. Hiking in groups is safer and more fun, and a great way to get some exercise.

10. Bring Your Camera

You will want to take lots of photos as you traverse the trails, so bring your camera or your smartphone. There will be plenty of camera-ready moments on the trail, and it is important to be prepared.

Hiking can be a wonderful hobby, and a great way to spend time outdoors. If you are tired of being cooped up and ready for a new adventure, the 10 beginner-friendly hiking tips can get you started safely.

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Unexpected Items to Put on Your Van-Life Packing List

22 Wednesday Jun 2022

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If you are planning a road trip vacation or looking to become a full-time van-lifer, there has never been a better time. There are a lot of adventurers taking the leap and hitting the road thanks to that little life-changing pandemic going around. COVID-19 has thrown a wrench in a lot of folk’s plans, so whether you are changing your summer vacation accordingly or finding yourself unemployed with the sudden opportunity to change course, you will be in good company. 

Pulling it all together requires a masterpiece in the art of planning because nobody wants to be 100 miles from the next town (without cell service, of course) just to realize they forgot something major. As you plan, you are going to find plenty of helpful packing lists to walk you through the basics, but here are the extras they forgot to mention. 

Extra Blankets

Elevation: call it earth’s original thermostat. You can spend your day driving through a 110º valley and with just a couple thousand miles straight up, you will be looking for your heaviest socks. This is where the extra blankets will come in handy. As you travel through any of the mountainous states, you will be delighted to have the extra covers when you snuggle into bed for the night. 

They will also save your upholstery, which is especially important if you’re renting or planning to sell your camper at the end of your trip. Tuck your blankets around couches or chairs like a makeshift seat cover. It’s an easy way to sneak in a couple of extra blankets without using up precious storage space, and it also makes cleaning up any crumbs or spills easy. You can toss a blanket in a standard washer and dryer and it’s clean in an hour. Alternatively, trying to remove a stain from the original upholstery can quickly turn into a day of tentatively blotting and asking the universe for a miracle. 

Camping Laundry Line 

It’s a small convenience, but for under $10, it can make your camping life just a little easier. There’s the obvious use — you might need it to dry your clothes — but it’s also great for airing out towels, rugs, and the aforementioned blankets between washes. 

Drink Koozies

Can’t beat a cold beverage in hot places, right? But seriously, koozies are surprisingly efficient at keeping cans and jars and anything else that wiggles from constantly bumping against each other as you’re driving down the road. They’re cheap, you’ve probably already got a drawer full of them somewhere, and they’ll slide right over everything from spaghetti sauce to mason jars. 

Chapstick 

Friends from humid places, this one is for you. If you so much as put your big toe into one of those “it’s a dry heat!” states, your lips will dry out in a second. They’re not kidding, it is a dry heat and chapped lips hurt. 

Accept That You Will Forget Things

Almost certainly, you are going to be 100 miles from the nearest town when you think of something you wished you had packed. That’s probably also where you’ll be when you see something taking up valuable space that you still haven’t used. It’s all part of the adventure! But with these items on your packing list, you’ll have a couple of bases covered that you didn’t even know you needed. 

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The Secrets Of State Parks

04 Wednesday May 2022

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As full-time RVers, we have always made a point of seeing national parks during our travels. Who wouldn’t? These parks are some of the most beautiful places in the country and are probably some of the most popular destinations for RV travelers. This is for good reason, of course, and we 100% recommend seeing as many national parks as you possibly can during your travels.

That said, we also highly recommend weaving some state parks into your adventures.

Oddly, we’ve been on the road for 6 years now and have only just begun to dive into the magical world of state parks. Sure, we’ve visited a few of them here and there during our adventures, but I don’t think we really realized how amazing state parks can actually be until a couple of years ago. Since then, we have made a point of visiting state parks in almost every state we’ve visited, and we will continue to do so for as long as we continue to explore.

Read on to learn why we will do this, and why you should too.

Beautiful Places

Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

As mentioned above, our country’s national parks are absolutely stunning. They are definitely some of the most beautiful places in the US, and possibly even the world. That said, state parks—which are often completely missed by travelers—can be just as beautiful.

From gorgeous beaches to magical wooded areas, we’ve seen pretty much every landscape you can imagine during our state park adventures. Some of our favorite hikes have been hidden away in these lesser-known parks, and some of the best views we’ve ever encountered were discovered in state parks.

If you are a fan of beauty in nature—and we’d say most RVers are—state parks absolutely need to be on your list of things to do as you travel.

Affordable Attractions

Beacon Rock State Park, Washington

We travel full-time. While we definitely like to see and do new things as we travel, we cannot live like we’re on vacation 24/7. This means we have to find affordable places to visit as we explore.

Often, we do this by using reciprocal museum memberships or theme park passes that work nationwide. We also have an “America the Beautiful” pass that allows us to visit national parks without paying entrance fees. State parks have made excellent additions to our list of free or inexpensive things to do. Best of all, there are state parks everywhere we go!

We’ve found that most state parks charge under $10 for a vehicle full of people to enter, and some are totally free. Sometimes, if we are in a state long enough, we will even invest in a state park pass that gives us access to all of the state parks without paying entrance fees. This was an excellent investment for us in both Washington and Texas in particular.

State park activities vary based on the natural landscape. Most have some hiking trails and many have a swimming beach of some sort. Several state parks also offer Junior Ranger programs, which are fun and a great way to get the kids engaged and learning during your visit. (We love using Junior Ranger programs in our road-schooling curriculum.)

Other activities we’ve enjoyed in state parks include sandboarding, kayaking, and bouldering, but these are far from the only options you’ll find.

Inexpensive Camping

Goose Island State Park, Texas

In addition to providing us with inexpensive entertainment, state parks also tend to offer inexpensive camping options.

Now, for the most part, we try to stay in the Thousand Trails system, and whenever we leave that system, we will stick to free campgrounds and boondocking locations. That said, when none of these options are available, state park camping can be incredibly helpful.

Some state parks will charge as little as $12 to $15 a night for camping, but we’ve found the average cost per night at a state park is closer to $25 or $30. In some cases, it makes sense to purchase an annual state park pass in order to save on camping fees, but you really have to look at each individual state and situation to know if this option is right for you. We’ve purchased state park passes to save on camping fees in Texas, and we know that the New Mexico State park pass is an excellent deal for campers.

All of the state park campgrounds we’ve stayed in have been lovely and well kept. Some provide electric and/or water hookups and most have a dump station. During our stay in Louisiana, there were even laundry rooms available and there was no charge to use the machines!

Other amenities that a state park may or may not have can include a playground, a dog park, a swimming beach or pool, showers, and toilets.

Clearly, state parks are a wonderful addition to any RVer’s travels. Why not give one a try on your next big adventure? We’re betting you’ll fall in love just like we did!

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

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Must-See Stops When You Go RVing on Route 66

20 Wednesday Apr 2022

Posted by in RV Information, The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Get Your Kicks on Historic Route 66

U.S. Highway 66 – Will Rogers Highway – Main Street of America – Mother Road

Historic Route 66 has many names. It runs from downtown Chicago through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona and ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California. Of course, travelers cannot drive the entire route uninterrupted nowadays. But what remains “holds a special place in American consciousness and evokes images of simpler times, mom and pop businesses, and the icons of a mobile nation on the road,” as the National Park Service so eloquently phrased it.

If you have not made the trip down Route 66, this spring or summer is as good as any time to do so. Grab the family and take off in the RV. There are several RV parks and campgrounds to rest at between sightseeing ventures along the route. Be sure to include these must-see stops on your Route 66 RV journey.

Ambler Texaco Gas Station

The first stop is Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station, also known as Becker’s Marathon Gas Station, in Dwight, Illinois. This filling station turned visitor’s center was the longest operational station on the route from 1933 to 1999. Much of the establishment has been restored to its original luster, giving visitors a snapshot of what things looked like in the 1930s.

Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch

St. Louis, Missouri’s iconic Gateway Arch is another popular stop on Route 66. Dubbed the “Gateway to the West,” this impressive structure is over 600 feet tall. Visitors can travel up the legs of the arch via an egg-shaped tram that seats five. Once at the top of the arch, they can take in sweeping views of the surrounding areas. On particularly windy days, spectators at the top will feel the arch sway side to side.

Meramec Caverns

There is plenty to see above ground along Route 66 and some pretty amazing sights below, like the Meramec Caverns in the Ozarks, near Stanton, Missouri. This 4.6 mile-long system of caves is a treasure trove of unique rock formations, and visitors can opt for a guided tour. Meramec Caverns also offers a slew of above-ground activities for families to enjoy, including zip-lining, wall climbing, boat tours along the Meramec River, and more. Plus, a restaurant, snack bar, and ice cream shop are located on-site.

Cars on the Route

Cars on the Route

A mere 13 miles of Route 66 traverses through Kansas, but the little town that folks first pass through boasts big pride for the Mother Road. The old mining town of Galena is full of Route 66 attractions, including Cars on the Route. This service station that dates back to 1934 was transformed into a roadside café and a souvenir shop with all things Route 66. Vehicles designed to look like characters from Pixar’s Cars movie (particularly Mater the Tow Truck) sit outside the restored station and make for whimsical photo ops.

Pops 66 Soda Ranch

Pops 66 Soda Ranch

All this exploring will probably make you thirsty. Simply head for the 66-foot-tall neon, bottle-shaped sign in Arcadia, Oklahoma. Established in 2007, Pops is a full-service restaurant, gas station, and convenience store wrapped up into one family-friendly environment. And let’s not forget the soda pop! Thirsty customers can choose between over 700 different kinds of sodas and drinks, from classic to whacky flavors.

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch

Like Galena, Kansas, Amarillo, Texas offers a variety of Route 66 attractions to anyone traveling through. Fans of Route 66 can check out the RV museum, Historic District (named after the route), and the Cadillac Ranch art installation. An Insta-worthy photo op, Cadillac Ranch is a line of 10 spray-painted Cadillacs half-buried in the ground. Visitors sometimes bring their own spray can and mark a car or two.

Blue Hole

You aren’t seeing a mirage when you pass through the desert of Santa Rosa, New Mexico. That’s the Blue Hole, a natural pool with hidden caves once used by cowboys and earlier Route 66 travelers as a place to cool off. Today people come to swim, dive, cliff jump, scuba dive, and snorkel in the crystal-blue water. The Blue Hole stays at a constant 62 °F and has a constant inflow of 3,000 gallons per minute, enough for the water to completely renew itself every six hours

Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater

You don’t have to travel to the Moon to see a crater, just travel a bit further down Route 66 and stop at the Meteor Crater in Winslow, Arizona. Created about 50,000 years ago, when a meteorite hit the Earth, the impact made a dent in the Earth’s surface, measuring about .7 miles in diameter and is 560 feet deep. Visitors can take a rim tour, peruse the Discovery Center, and more.

Calico Ghost Town

Route 66 passes through its fair share of ghost towns. Some are entirely abandoned, some have a few residents, and others are tourist attractions. Once a bustling silver mining town in California, Calico Ghost Town was abandoned in the late 1800s and later transformed into an old west tourist attraction. Throughout the year, folks can go on ghost and mining tours, pan for precious minerals, ride on a train, or attend special events.

Don’t Hit The Mother Road Without the Mother of All Roadside Assistance Plans

“We’re here to help you enjoy your RV to the fullest. We offer products and services that help you travel worry-free and spend more of your time enjoying the great outdoors.”

–Coach-Net

When you purchase a Coach-Net membership, you invest in peace of mind. Help from a trusted RV expert is just a phone call away and is always available 24/7.

With Coach-Net Roadside Assistance, you receive:

  • 24/7 RV Technical and Roadside Assistance,
  • Tire and Wheel Protection,
  • Service Agreement for New and Used RVs,
  • Guaranteed Asset Protection,
  • Paint & Fabric Protection,
  • And much more. 

Learn more about how Coach-Net can make your Historic Route 66 adventures unforgettable.

What are other Historic Route 66 attractions you would add to this list?

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Levi Henley and his wife, Natalie, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years. They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and work camp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com 

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RVing in Texas: From the Mountains to the Sea and Caverns In Between

06 Wednesday Apr 2022

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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The Lone Star State has much to offer in the way of varying geography.  From the sunny shores of the Gulf of Mexico to the rugged ridges of the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park and everything in between, Texas is a haven for outdoor adventurers, like RVers! The following are a mere handful of these majestic natural wonders to travel to on your next RV trip. 

Big Bend National Park

The mountains loom over the desert landscape at Big Bend National Park.

Big Bend National Park is located in the southwestern part of Texas, along the Texas-Mexico border, where the Rio Grande River makes a sharp turn. There are over 1,200 square miles of diverse terrain, and elevations range from 1,800 feet along the Rio Grande to almost 8,000 feet at the highest peak of the Chisos Mountains. This mixed topography also gives way to various plants and animals, from the cactus gardens and diamondback rattlesnakes in lowland basins to conifer groves and white-tailed deer in the high country.

Big Bend National Park offers wilderness sightseeing, and it’s a treasure trove of geological features, including sea fossils, dinosaur bones, and volcanic dikes. The park also provides a range of recreation opportunities for all ages and skillsets, like:

  • Hiking (more than 150 miles of trails)
  • Bicycling
  • Floating the Rio Grande
  • Fishing
  • Horseback Riding
  • Scenic Drives
  • Stargazing
  • Ranger-Led Programs 
  • Camping (4 developed camping areas in the park can accommodate RVs)

And perhaps the best time of year to go RVing to Big Bend National Park is in fall and spring when temperatures are mild during the day and cool after sundown.   

Padre Island National Seashore

The white sands and salty waters of Padre Island National Seashore set the scene for a vacation paradise.

Padre Island National Seashore, dubbed the Longest Stretch of Undeveloped Barrier Island in the World, is sandwiched between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre. Like the national seashore, Laguna Madre has its own claim to fame as one of a few hypersaline lagoons in the world.

Padre Island National Seashore stretches 70 miles long and hosts a variety of pristine coastline, dunes, prairies, and tidal flats. Over 380 species of birds call the island their home, and it’s also the nesting ground for the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle. Every summer, the park releases the hatchlings from the nests. The event is frequently open to the public.

Many outdoor and water sports enthusiasts are drawn to this location for its wide array of recreational activities, RVing included! Visitors can enjoy:

  • Windsurfing on Laguna Madre
  • Canoeing and Kayaking
  • Beachcombing
  • Beach Driving
  • Bicycling
  • Fishing
  • Swimming
  • Birdwatching
  • Camping

Five areas of the park are designated for camping. While RV hookups are not provided at any campsite, an RV dump station and a water filling station are conveniently available.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The striking El Capitan limestone cliff is the most iconic feature in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located just south of the New Mexico state line and north of U.S. Highway 62/180. The 86,416 acres of diverse landscapes consist of deserts and dunes, canyons and mountains, a variety of flora and fauna, and the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef. The park is home to the highest point in Texas, the Guadalupe Peak, standing at 8,751 feet above sea level. Still, the park’s most iconic feature is El Capitan, a mammoth limestone monolith that dominates the skyline.

RVers, hikers, and thrill-seekers venture from near and far to enjoy the natural wonders and beauty at Guadalupe Mountains National Park throughout the year. However, the best weather is in the spring and fall. Activities in the park include:

  • Hiking (80 miles of trails)
  • Backpacking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Stargazing
  • Fall Color Viewing (begins mid-October and continues through mid-November)
  • RVing/Camping (three developed campgrounds in the park)

Natural Bridge Caverns

Families will enjoy underground and above-the-surface adventures at Natural Bridge Caverns.

Family-owned and operated Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio is a natural underground wonder with added fun attractions. Uncovered by college students in 1960, the cavern can be viewed by the public via guided tours. Underground chambers feature “otherworldly formations. Each formed by single drops of water and the slow passage of time,” according to the attraction’s website.

Above the surface, ticket holders can brave a 60-foot high aerial adventure ropes course, find their way out of a 5,000 square foot outdoor maze, go gem and fossil mining, and much more. A number of RV parks are located within minutes of Natural Bridge Caverns, making it an easy commute to all the excitement and thrills.

Don’t Leave Home Without Us

Do you have roadside assistance? Since 1987, Coach-Net has been a trusted company, offering emergency roadside services tailored to the specialized needs of RVers. Whether you own a towable RV or a motorized one, Coach-Net can get you started on a premier plan that includes:

  • 24/7, All-Inclusive Roadside Assistance,
  • Concierge Services,
  • Global Emergency Travel Services,
  • Tire Discounts,
  • Camping Discounts,
  • And much more.

Don’t let unexpected breakdowns and unforeseen costly repairs ruin your travel plans. Instead, give Coach-Net a call to see how they can help you travel worry-free, or join now and see what traveling with peace of mind really feels like.

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Levi Henley and his wife, Natalie, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years. They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and work camp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com 

RV Protect

Thomas Z. ~ “Unbelievable service from the time we called in till he showed up 40 minutes. Super.  Follow-up calls. Excellent experience! Kudos to Coach-Net! I will continue renewing as long as I am alive🔥🔥🔥”

Riding The RV Water Sports Vacation Wave

16 Wednesday Mar 2022

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks

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Water sports vacations have long been a holiday favorite, driven in part by the ever-expanding RV market. Statistics show there were almost six times as many RVs shipped for sale in the US last year as compared to 1980. In the past two years, US RV ownership has risen a buoyant 12 percentage points. Taking RVs on a water sports vacation can also be seen as a pandemic response. Safer staycations have increasingly replaced overseas plane and hotel, or even interstate, travel. The success of any RV water sports vacation hinges on some forward planning, and a little mindfulness in keeping vehicles, equipment, and bodies protected, in and out of the water.

Prepare, Load, and Store

Before travel, items inside the RV should be locked down. Small belongings can be placed in the sink, televisions on the floor, and any latched doors firmly shut. Water sports equipment also needs securing. Jet skis, kayaks, or any other personal watercraft are usually transported on a trailer attached to the RV. Careful attention to the RV’s haulage weight is essential. On-site, water sports equipment should be stored inside or undercover where possible to avoid damage from continuous exposure to sun and rain. Jet skis and other water sports equipment can be stored and secured on their trailer to protect them from the elements and dissuade theft.

Keeping Sand at Bay

A beach vacation allows infinite possibilities for traipsing sand around. Invest in doormats for wiping shoes, a rug for seating sandy toes on outside, and brooms to sweep the sand away. A water bowl by the door encourages feet cleaning before entering the RV. 

Park and Play

Knowing how to park and protect an RV by the beach or lake is crucial. RVs can be parked on sand but should be secured by having hard surfaces placed underneath leveling jacks or tires to counter any sinking. Any side of the RV that is exposed to the ocean should be covered with sheets of mesh, plywood, or plastic. Tides should be carefully considered when choosing an appropriate beach spot to park. If RV vacationing by a lake in an RV resort, study the campsite maps before arrival and request a site that provides some privacy. Ideal site choices border woods or nature, don’t sit close to access roads, and are situated far from bathrooms and other amenities.

The same safety attention given to the RV needs to be taken when engaging in water sports. Whether it’s ocean or lake swimming, in calm or wavy waters, keeping an eye on currents, depths, and any potential perils, like uneven rocky surfaces, is essential. Only attempt operating personal watercraft with the required skills. So, for instance, if you’re on a jet ski for the first time, make sure to go super slow; give yourself time to get a feel for it first. 

Going on a water sports RV holiday offers an infinite array of possibilities in direction, activity, and pleasure. A little planning and attention go a long way, especially in times of increased uncertainty and change, and certainly when RV’ing and water sports are concerned.

Author: Alicia Rennoll

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Kevin K. ~ “Maurice, an RV Tech talked me through a problem that only a mechanic would know. He had the experience to find the problem with my slides and fix them.”

Must-See Roadside Attractions for RVers

02 Wednesday Feb 2022

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Are you guilty of taking random detours on your RV route to see oddball roadside attractions? Don’t be ashamed! These impulsive pit stops are one of the best parts of taking an RV trip. There are so many jaw-dropping and equally head-scratching sights, like the following must-see roadside attractions. And as an added bonus for RVers, many of these attractions offer RV parking, on-site camping, or are located near RV parks.

Unclaimed Baggage Center

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Scottsboro, Alabama

Ever lost your luggage at the airport? If it was never returned, it might be on sale at the nation’s only retailer of lost luggage, Unclaimed Baggage Center in Alabama. According to the company, “Over 99.9% of domestic airline’s checked bags are picked up at the carousel. After airlines conduct an extensive 3-month tracing process there are still a small percentage of bags left unclaimed.” 

Unclaimed Baggage Center purchases lost luggage and then sells, donates, or recycles the contents. Customers can find an array of everyday goods like clothes, cameras, jewelry, electronics, and sports equipment at discounted prices. And they may also find some far-out treasures like medieval armor, a vintage scuba helmet, and rare antiques…whatever fits in a suitcase.

London Bridge

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Lake Havasu City, Arizona

The London Bridge did, in fact, fall down. But portions were sold in auction, dismantled, and reassembled to create the bridge spanning Lake Havasu City’s Bridgewater Channel today. The bridge is a marvel for history buffs. 

Folks can walk or drive across and take a guided tour that points out marring sections created during World War II, like strafing scars from German aircraft fire. The lamp posts lining the bridge were made from the melted-down cannons seized by the British from Napoleon’s army after the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.

Salvation Mountain

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Niland, California

Just east of the Salton Sea shines the colorful hillside masterpiece of the late Leonard Knight. Impassioned by his spirituality, Knight was motivated to create a message of biblical and religious proportion. Fashioned out of adobe clay and donated paint, this 50-foot tall and 150-foot wide art piece is something that must be seen in person to truly appreciate, regardless of one’s beliefs. The surrounding desert landscape is also a popular boondocking site where RVers have overnighted.

Winchester Mystery House

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San Jose, California

While it is stunning on the outside, the historical Winchester Mystery House is quite bizarre on the inside. This 160-room Victorian mansion was once the home of Sarah  Winchester, heiress to the Winchester Rifle fortune. From 1886 to 1922, Winchester made unusual additions and modifications to the home, creating a labyrinth filled with staircases and doors that led to nowhere. It has 40 staircases, 13 bathrooms, and 47 fireplaces, among other additions. While the public is at odds about this wealthy woman’s motives, some speculate she built the home to confuse and trap evil spirits that haunted her. Guests can tour the home and grounds and discover the fascination behind this over 100-year-old architectural wonder for themselves.

UFO Watchtower

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Hooper, Colorado

The UFO Watchtower is essentially an observation platform with a 360-degree view of the San Luis Valley and, even better, an exceptional stargazing vantage point. It’s a location that has reportedly been the scene of countless alleged UFO sightings and activity. Extraterrestrial seekers come to glimpse a UFO for themselves, and others just want to see what all the hype is about. Folks can even opt to dry camp overnight as the attraction allows camping.

Garden of a Thousand Buddhas

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Arlee, Montana

Travel 20 miles north of Missoula and find the tranquil and beautiful Garden of a Thousand Buddas. In short, the site is a public park, botanical garden, and Buddhist Center. The gardens are open daily, and visitors can tour the dramatic setting that includes 1000 buddhas and 1000 stupas perfectly positioned. The gardens are meant to evoke a sense of positivity and enlightenment in all those that enter.

World’s Largest Kaleidoscope

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Mount Tremper, New York

Recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope, this psychedelic attraction was created in a silo measuring 60 feet tall and 37.5 feet in diameter. Spectators are treated to a mind-bending visual and sound experience dubbed the Kaleidoshow. It can be viewed by either laying on the floor or leaning against the wall. The World’s Largest Kaleidoscope was eventually made a part of the Emerson Resort and Spa in Mount Tremper.

Travel Apps That Locate Nearby Roadside Attractions

There’s an app for everything, and apps like Roadside America and Roadtrippers allow RVers the opportunity to locate nearby roadside attractions along their route. 

The Roadside America app, for instance, helps users find unique places worth stopping at along their route. The app starts at $2.99 for its basic feature and is only available on iOS 12.3 and higher.

Road trip planner apps like Roadtrippers and RV Trip Wizard are all-in-one programs. Users can plan their road trips, including final destination, camping/lodging along the route, and even plotting pit stops like roadside attractions in the interim. These are available on iOS and Android.

Don’t Hit The Open Road Without This Helpful Resource Also

There are many resources like trip planning apps to help folks along their travels. But one of the best resources you could have as an RVer is a trusted roadside assistance program like Coach-Net’s Roadside Assistance. With Coach-Net’s full suite of RV protection products like

  • 24/7 RV Technical & Roadside Assistance
  • Tire & Wheel Protection
  • Service Agreement for New & Used RVs
  • Paint & Fabric Protection
  • Guaranteed Asset Protection

…you can have solid peace-of-mind coverage! Learn how you can make the connection to carefree RVing with the help of Coach-Net!

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Natalie Henley and her husband, Levi, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years.  They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and workcamp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com.

RV Protect

Robert E. ~ “I called in pretty late and didn’t think I’d get assistance with my slide out. I spoke with Mary and she helped me solve the problem I was having. She was real knowledgeable and walked me through a few steps and had my slide out going back in. Thanks for the help at a crazy hour!”

Go RVing at Georgia’s Natural Wonders

28 Friday Jan 2022

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Georgia’s self-proclaimed Seven Natural Wonders are visual marvels but initially narrowing them down to the magic number reportedly took some doing. The Peach State, after all, is among the most geographically and geologically diverse. It encompasses quiet beaches, soaring peaks of the Blue Ridge, swamplands, farmlands, marshlands, small towns, big cities, mountain villages, and coastal plains.

RVers are drawn to beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, exciting sights, and of course, camping, all of which are easily recognized in Georgia’s Natural Wonders. The following are just some of these natural masterpieces RVers ought to visit and take time exploring!

Amicalola Falls

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Tallest Cascading Waterfall in the Southeast

The 729-foot magnificent waterfall is the most treasured feature of the state park of its namesake. While the falls are only a short walk from the visitor’s parking lot, to reach the very top, hikers must ascend about 600 stairs and a mildly steep quarter-mile incline.

Visitors can explore the rest of the 829-acre state park for the day or opt to stay for a while at the lodge, cabins, or campground, featuring RV sites with electric and water hookups. Amicalola Falls State Park is a haven for hikers, with 10 trails spilling from the park. The most sought-after one, the 8.5-mile Approach Trail, runs from the park to Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the famous Appalachian Trail.

But beyond trekking through the woods, the park offers many other outdoor activities and educational programs throughout the year. These include ziplining, the Birds of Prey Meet and Greet weekend program, GPS scavenger hunts, and much more.

Tallulah Gorge

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Spectacular Canyon in Eastern U.S.

The sublime two-mile-long and nearly 1,000-foot deep Tallulah Gorge is one of the most impressive canyons in Eastern U.S. Visitors can take in the site’s sheer depth, enormity, and picturesque views of the river and waterfalls from several vantage points:

  • Hiking rim trails to various overlooks.
  • Hiking the gorge floor (must have a permit).
  • Crossing a 200-foot long suspension bridge 80 feet above the rocky bottom. 

Tallulah Gorge State Park is a perfect place for RVers to set up camp in one of the many electric and water sites and explore the surroundings for days. Adventures abound for folks of all ages and skill sets, from hiking and mountain biking to swimming and fishing. In addition, Ranger Programs are offered throughout the year as an opportunity to educate the public on park features.

On rare occasions, visitors may be treated to an aesthetic water release.  With the help of its hydroelectric dam, “The aesthetic release restores the gorge’s historic brilliance by increasing the water flow to 200 cfs (cubic feet per second), over 5 times its current normal flow. By bringing the water flow back to more historic and natural levels, visitors get a rare chance to experience the park’s sites and sounds as visitors once did.”

-Atlanta Outdoor Club

Providence Canyon

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“Little Grand Canyon”

Dubbed “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon resulted from poor agricultural practices and is still changing due to continuous erosion of the sediments. The erosion gullies reach as deep as 150 feet, exposing the soil’s pink, orange, red, and purple hues. The canyon is also home to the rare Plumleaf Azaleas, which grow only in this region and bloom during July and August.

RV camping is not an option at Providence Canyon State Park, but there are nearby campgrounds. Visitors can come to the park for the day to hike, view wildlife, capture amazing landscape shots, and stay after dark to stargaze for a while. Backpacking is another popular activity. The park also offers astronomy and geology programs for eager learners to attend.

Okefenokee Swamp

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North America’s Largest Blackwater Swamp

The shallow, 438,000-acre Okefenokee Swamp straddles the Georgia–Florida line. A large portion of the swamp is protected by the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and the Okefenokee Wilderness. It is home to numerous creatures, including alligators, turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, ibis, herons, wood storks, and red-cockaded woodpeckers. And fish like warmouth, bluegill, catfish, chain pickerel, and bowfin thrive below the surface.

Stephen C. Foster State Park resides within the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and the Okefenokee Wilderness and offers many amenities and activities from day-use to overnight visitors. Folks can opt for boat tours, canoe/kayak rentals, boat rentals, fishing, RV/tent camping, and lodging. Foster State Park is also a Certified Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky, so stargazers will appreciate the view after sundown.

Visit These and More Natural Wonders With Carefree RVing

“We recently had a situation on I-90 near Coeur d’Lane, ID and needed assistance. Coach-Net promptly returned our call, understood the situation, and arranged for all necessary needs. Their assistance got help to us in just under 2 hours, and after another 2 hours, we were loaded and on our way for repairs…excellent communication and follow up. You have a customer for life!”

Charlie Z. (Facebook)

For a roadside assistance program that protects you on and off the road, choose Coach-Net. Coach-Net is your connection to carefree RVing with its full suite of RV protection products, including:

  • 24/7 RV Technical & Roadside Assistance
  • Tire & Wheel Protection
  • Service Agreement for New & Used RVs
  • Paint & Fabric Protection
  • Guaranteed Asset Protection

Learn how we can help you enjoy your travels even more with peace of mind. Contact Coach-Net!

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Levi Henley and his wife, Natalie, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years. They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and work camp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com 

RV Protect

Karl P. UT~ “Kurt from Quality Tire was exceptional. He came and pulled both sets of back tires. The inside tires on both sides of our motor home had 0 pressure. Both Valve stems had been damaged for some reason. He replaced the valve stems on both tires, checked and filled all 6 tires to correct pressure. He was a pleasant and pleasurable person to work with. We were called by Coach-Net several times to make sure everything went as it was supposed to. Thank you to all the Coach-Net Representatives and to Kurt from Quality tire. It took something that was a pain and made it a pleasure.”