Category Archives: The Great Outdoors

Get Inspired and Be Entertained on Your Next RV Trip to Alabama

12 Wednesday Jan 2022

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Welcome to Sweet Home Alabama

Whether you winter in the Gulf Shores, go RVing to popular events, or take a road trip to historical markers, Alabama has all sorts of fun and unique locations to explore. The following are just a smidgen of the many areas, celebrations, and landmarks sprinkled throughout the state. Find your sweet spot of adventure in Sweet Home Alabama the next time you RV through the South.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

Enjoy Miles of White Sand and Turquoise Water

Experience endless summers in Southern Alabama. While other folks in other parts of the country are shivering in snowstorms, snowbirds are soaking in the sun and tranquil turquoise waters along Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. The 32 miles of pristine beachfront on the Alabama coastline is a haven for water sportsmen. And there are even more land activities on and just minutes away from the beaches. From fishing to boating and hiking to biking, there really is never a dull moment for vacationers or season dwellers.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are two of Alabama’s top winter destinations because of their varied accommodations and, of course, warmer weather.  This area has also been referred to as the “New Florida” for snowbirds. While not as long as the Sunshine State’s shoreline, Alabama’s coastline offers two prime assets. It’s not as busy and congested, and it’s more affordable than Florida. Other than that, RVers can still enjoy the same activities, white sands, and salty air!

Mardi Gras

Mobile Knows How To Put on a Mardi Gras Parade

Although there is an ongoing debate on its origins, Mobile, Alabama, lays claim to the first celebration of Mardi Gras. The first festival was reportedly started by Frenchman Nicholas Langlois in 1703 when Mobile was the capital of French Louisiana. Fast forward to today, and Mardi Gras is a multi-week-long extravaganza. Like downtown New Orleans, downtown Mobile transforms into a wonderland of sorts, filled with the sights and sounds of live music, parades, parties, and other frivolities.

If your RV travels include scoping out local happenings, you won’t want to miss this annual shindig. While in town, make it a point to stop by the Mobile Carnival Museum and get the lowdown on the rich history behind this legendary event and the city’s unique ties to its beginnings.

Museums Dedicated to Black History

Just One of Many Telling Exhibits at Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

From Birmingham to Montgomery and places near and far, Alabama has been the backdrop to decades of monumental events in the black community. An Advance Local Media article from 2020 mentions, “Montgomery alone had more slave depots than churches at the dawn of the Civil War in 1861. Many men and women helped the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. as he rose to national prominence on Alabama soil. The Lowndes County Freedom Organization was the precursor of the national Black Panther Party.”

There are a number of museums throughout the state that highlight the triumphs and tribulations of black history through exhibits, artwork, presentations, and educational seminars. For example, the Legacy Museum in Montgomery features a comprehensive history of the nation, focusing on the legacy of slavery. And the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute in Birmingham depicts the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s. Other moving museums and sites that preserve and interpret black history include:

  • National Voting Rights Museum, Selma
  • Freedom Rides Museum, Montgomery
  • Rosa Parks Library and Museum, Montgomery
  • National Memorial for Peace and Justice, Montgomery
  • Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail
  • Civil Rights Memorial, Montgomery

Cathedral Caverns

The Cathedral Caverns in Woodville, Alabama is Quite Extraordinary

The amazing sites don’t just stop above the ground. Alabama has some pretty out-of-this-world places right below your feet. Cathedral Caverns State Park is home to the Bat Cave or what is now referred to as Cathedral Caverns because of its cathedral-like appearance.

Visitors to the state park can take a guided tour of the majestic underground, which features one of the largest stalagmites in the world (“Goliath”), measuring 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference. Other fascinating natural cave formations include the “caveman” perched atop a flowstone wall, a “frozen” waterfall, and a large stalagmite forest.

RVers can stay overnight or longer as the park has a camping section. And if anyone gets tired of cave exploration, there are miles of hiking trails throughout the park and even gem mining.

Don’t Forget to Bring Your Most Trusted Passenger on Your RV Trip to Alabama

Of course, this list is only scratching the surface of possible places to experience on your next RV journey into Alabama. There are plenty more cities, big and small, to explore, historical landmarks to learn about, thrilling attractions to get the heart pumping, and natural wonders to build up your sense of wanderlust. Alabama is a state all its own waiting to be discovered.

All you have to do is pack up the RV and point your rig south. And don’t forget to buckle in your Coach-Net roadside assistance. With Coach-Net’s full suite of RV protection products, you can have peace-of-mind protection for a carefree journey. Coach-Net provides unlimited towing, jumpstart, fuel delivery, locksmith, tire assistance, winching, and technical support.

Get even more valuable benefits with the premier plan. Besides 24/7, all-inclusive roadside assistance, it includes concierge services, global emergency travel services, tire discounts, camping discounts, and so much more. Learn more about Coach-Net’s dynamic roadside assistance programs.

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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Swain W. ~ “Service was excellent and follow up was fantastic. It means a lot to be taken care of when you are down. Very happy with everyone’s performance I would not have known what to do or who to call if I had not had Coach-Net. You all were excellent.” 

Winter RVing in New Mexico: Discover the Outdoors in a Wonderland of Enchantment

08 Wednesday Dec 2021

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What are your RV plans this winter?  If you haven’t already committed to winterizing your rig and are open to winter travel, then you and your traveling crew might be interested in venturing to the Land of Enchantment. While quite brutal in the summer months, New Mexico turns into a Winter Wonderland of sorts, offering a…

  • Wellness retreat basking in tranquil desert scenery immersed in a soothing hot spring.
  • Family adventure in the snow.
  • Quiet getaway of fishing with the gang.
  • Different kind of sledding experience.

Whatever your winter escape, you just might find it in the Wonderland of Enchantment.

Soak in Hot Springs in Jemez Springs

Imagine soaking in this hot spring surrounded by desert beauty. Source

New Mexico is a haven for hot springs as this region of the nation experiences a good deal of geothermal activity. Jemez Springs, located just an hour from Albuquerque and 1.5 hours from Santa Fe, offers primitive and developed hot springs. 

RVers wanting some much-needed rest and relaxation in these hot springs can choose from a number of RV campgrounds and resorts around the area and then spend days hot spring hopping.

Some hot springs around Jemez Springs can be accessed in their natural state along hiking trails. Others are a part of luxurious resorts. The following is a sample of commercial and natural hot spring locations in and around the town.

Resorts/Spas:

Primitive:

Safety Note: Always stick to known and used hot springs as water temperatures in natural hot springs can reach dangerous levels. It is a good idea to contact the forest service or any agency with jurisdiction over these and other hot springs for up-to-date safety information.

Go Birdwatching at Bosque del Apache

Mid-November thru mid-February is peak traffic at the refuge and peak season for wildlife viewers and photographers. Source

Many RVer’s love wildlife viewing, especially when it comes to birdwatching and photography.  Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a bird photographer’s playground, particularly in the fall and winter, when the area offers the highest bird numbers.

The refuge straddles the Rio Grande valley in Socorro County and is home to almost 350 species of birds. In the winter, bird watchers will spot Snow Geese, Sandhill Cranes, dabbler ducks, Black-throated and Sage Sparrows, Bald Eagles, and Ferruginous Hawks.

RV and wildlife enthusiasts can get their fill of birdwatching every day. There is a nearby RV park aptly named Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park.

Snowshoe in Taos

Winter hiking is more like snowshoeing in these parts of New Mexico. Source

If you aren’t an experienced skier or would like a slower-paced journey into a winter wonderland, perhaps snowshoeing is more your speed. Taos Ski Valley is a perfect location for RVers wanting to experience a unique and fun way to enjoy the outdoors and winter camping. 

An overnight parking area is sectioned off for RVers and provides a short walk to the lifts. Folks can either bring their own equipment or rent shoes and poles from the venue. Plus, visitors can access a list of on-location trails based on their skill level, from novice to expert.

Ice Fish at Eagle Nest Lake

Try alpine lake fishing at Eagle Nest Lake. Source

Aside from camping, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, Eagle Nest Lake State Park offers visitors ice fishing through the winter.   Eagle Nest Lake is at an elevation of 8,300 feet situated amongst New Mexico’s highest mountain, Wheeler Peak.

The alpine lake is stocked with trout, salmon, perch, and pike. A fishing license is required, and it’s advised to check in with the Department of Game and Fish beforehand to make sure the lake is fully-frozen and thick enough.

Sled down a Snowy-like Slope

From a distance, it looks like real snow. Source

Perhaps the most unique-to-New Mexico winter activity is something folks around these parts enjoy year-round, sledding. Only, instead of snow, the powdery white gypsum of the White Sands National Park helps propel sledders down the gentle slopes. Visitors can be found gliding down or trekking back up the dunes along the loop portion of Dunes Drive using plastic snow saucers. With the bundled-up families playing in the close to freezing temperatures, it can easily be mistaken for a snowy day somewhere up north.

White Sands National Park is open daily year-round, save Christmas Day. Winter hours are from 7 AM to 6 PM. While RV camping and other lodging options are not permitted in the national park, there are many options nearby in Alamogordo and Las Cruces, making for a relatively short commute.

Roadside Assistance in New Mexico, No Matter What You’re Driving

While you consider your options for your winter in New Mexico, consider your current roadside assistance program. At Coach-Net, we’re committed to improving your RV experience by being your connection to carefree RVing. Coach-Net RV Technical & Roadside Assistance is a service program specializing in the unique needs of RVers at an affordable price.

But Coach-Net doesn’t stop coverage with RVs. Many of their programs include all personal vehicles you own, rent, borrow or lease. So no matter if it’s a motorcycle or a motorhome, they’ve got you covered!

Their baseline 24/7, all-inclusive roadside assistance program comes in handy for those unexpected moments should you:

  • Have a roadside breakdown,
  • Need assistance with a flat tire,
  • Run out of fuel,
  • Lock your keys in your vehicle,
  • Or any other type of disablement.

When you need help, they are a phone call away. So join now and get expert assistance anytime you need it!

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 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 

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Thomajan C. ~ “We are incredibly grateful to Coach-Net for helping us. Should an event like this ever happen to us again, Coach-Net will be our first call.”

The RV Event Bucket List: Festivals and Events Worth Traveling to in your RV

01 Wednesday Dec 2021

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

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There are so many places to explore while you’re RVing.  As an RVer, the open road is your oyster, and you and your traveling crew can explore as much as you want, whatever you want, at your leisure.  And while the list of must-experience sites is endless, there are some key RV Event Bucket List items worth traveling to in your RV, like the ones listed below.

Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show

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Known as the “The Largest Gathering of RVers in the World,” the Quartzsite Sports,  Vacation, and RV Show draws as many as one million folks every year in January.  For the past 40 years, this otherwise sleepy town has offered vendors space for rock, gem, and mineral shows, flea markets, and the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show.

The Quartzsite Big Tent is particularly of interest to hundreds of thousands of RVers, full-time and part-time. Hundreds of vendors gather under this behemoth to sell all sorts of outdoor and RV-related products and services, ranging from the latest gadgets to repairs and upgrades. It’s an RV shopper’s dream come true!

In addition to the shopping opportunities, folks opt to dry camp around the event for days and participate in all sorts of social gatherings and workshops geared towards RV living. It’s definitely a mecca for RV enthusiasts.

Quartzsite is located just 20 miles east of the California border on Interstate 10.  Show dates for the next few years are listed below:

  • January 22nd-30th, 2022
  • January 21st-29th, 2023
  • January 20th-28th, 2024
  • January 18th-26th, 2025

NASCAR Camping

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“Seasoner” fans will delight in the opportunity to see NASCAR events up close!  Many NASCAR race car events offer camping options for RVers.  Depending on the venue, folks can choose among multiple camping areas across the facility, including full hookup sites, grassy areas for dry camping, and camping right in the middle of the racetrack interior field! RVers can also opt for season passes as part of their camping package.

Races take place all over the U.S. between February and November, but the largest and most popular events include the Daytona 500, Coca-Cola 600, Cook Out Southern 500, and Indy 500, to name a few.

Burning Man

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“Whether it’s a dream of artistic expression, a yearning to connect with others in a fractured society, or simply a desire to live a more meaningful and authentic life, Burning Man is the place where dreams can and do come true.”

-burningman.org

Burning Man is a multi-day celebration that occurs in the Black Rock Desert in Nevada around Labor Day. The event focuses on the spirit of community and creativity in the form of art, self-expression, and self-reliance. The event is unlike any on the planet, and to truly understand the concept of Burning Man, you simply have to go and experience it for yourself. To an outsider, it can be summed up as a culmination of psychedelic costumes, out-of-this-world art installations, a variety of performances, and of course, lots of partying.

Tickets to the event start at around $500. Folks are encouraged to bring a hefty supply of water and food in their rigs. It is a complete boondocking experience in the desert, so be prepared for extreme heat and the possibility of dust storms.

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

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The Land of Enchantment truly lives up to its name every year at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This unique event is said to be the world’s most photographed event and the largest hot air ballooning event.

Nearly 750,000 visitors, many RVers, attend the Albuquerque, New Mexico event that happens for nine days during the first full week of October. Spectators gather to witness hundreds of special shaped balloons glow at night and almost simultaneously ascend in the early morning. It’s quite a magical (or, more appropriately, “enchanting”) sight to behold.

In addition to the awe-inspiring balloon shows, folks can see the balloons up close and meet the flight crew as attendees are allowed to walk around the launch field. Opportunities to assist the flight crews with set-up and experience a private hot air balloon ride are also available.

The 9-day event itinerary is packed with concerts, a chance to shop a variety of vendors, social gatherings, and a wide variety of activities for all ages. RV camping can be reserved on-site at the event or at nearby campgrounds. The event also offers bus transportation to and from the festival.

This coming year, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is slated for October 1-9, 2022.

Travel To These and More RV Event Bucket List Locations with Peace Of Mind

Whether you are RVing in the deserts of Nevada or New Mexico or in the middle of a NASCAR race track, it’s essential to be equipped with 24/7, all-inclusive roadside assistance when you’re on the road away from home. That’s a promise that Coach-Net can offer for RVers. They can also promise other valuable benefits such as Concierge Services, Global Emergency Travel Services, Tire Discounts, Camping Discounts, and so much more.

“If you own an RV, you owe it to yourself to have the protection you need when you need it most.”

-coach-net.com

If you haven’t already, give Coach-Net a call or join now and breathe easier knowing that Coach-Net has you and your family covered!

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 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 

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Mike S. ~ “I am very pleased I chose Coach-Net! When I needed you, you were there for me!”

Tips for a Successful National Park Day Trip

24 Wednesday Nov 2021

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks

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Some of the greatest places to go in an RV are our country’s national parks. These places are absolutely beautiful and are filled with amazing sights, sounds, and smells, as well as plenty of opportunities to learn.

In some cases, it is possible to camp right inside the parks. Other times, you might have to find boondocking or a campground outside the gates. Either way, you’re definitely going to want to leave the campsite to explore the amazing things around you each day. Before you do though, there are some steps you’ll want to take and things you’ll want to know in order to ensure a successful day in the park.

Here are our top tips for visiting national parks during your RV adventures.

Make Reservations

First, it is important to note that due to the pandemic and the significant rise in park attendance in many places, some national parks have started requiring reservations in order to enter. Before you plan a trip to any park, check to see if a reservation is required during the time you plan to visit, and if it is, snag one as soon as you possibly can.

Check the Weather

For the most part, your national parks adventures will likely take place in the great outdoors. This means you will want to know what to expect from the weather and arrive well prepared. Keep in mind that many national parks see extreme weather and temperatures, and the temperature can fluctuate wildly throughout the day (sometimes based simply on where you are in the park), making layers of clothing necessary.

Look at the Park Website

Always check the park website before you visit. The site will give you information on road closures, current restrictions, hours of operation, and much more. Knowing these things before you go could potentially save your whole day.

Pack Food and Water

Most national parks are huge. While some do have restaurants on-site, these are few and far between. For this reason, we highly recommend packing plenty of snacks and even a picnic meal for your day of exploring.

Additionally, be sure to pack enough water. A gallon a day per person is the standard recommendation, but you may need more or less depending on your activity level and the weather.

We recommend one of these to hold water as you hike.

Fill Up Your Gas Tank

As mentioned above, national parks can be huge. As is the case with restaurants, some parks have gas stations, but even in those parks, the stations are pretty scarce. For this reason, it is imperative that you fill up your gas tank before heading into the park. You might be surprised by just how much driving you end up doing!

Start at a Visitor Center

We highly recommend beginning any visit to a national park at the visitor center. This will allow you to get oriented, and in some cases, there will be a video about the park to give you a better understanding of what it is. Rangers will be available to help you pick things to see and places to hike. Additionally, you’ll be able to get a schedule of programs and pick up Junior Ranger books for the kids.

Take Advantage of Programs

Speaking of ranger programs and Junior Rangers, we also recommend that you make a point of checking out what all the park has to offer in terms of programs. Kids love the Junior Ranger program; those with dogs will like the BARK Ranger program; the talks, hikes, and presentations offered by rangers are always fantastic; and all of that is only a small sample of what you might find at any given park.

Never Approach or Feed Animals

You will probably see lots of signs throughout the park reminding you not to feed or approach animals. Take this seriously. The animals in national parks are wild, meaning they are unpredictable. On top of that, feeding them can actually make them very sick. Finally, animals that become unafraid of people pose a threat and will often be put down. This is definitely not something anyone wants to see.

Arrive Early and Stay Late

Sunrises, sunsets, and night skies in the national parks are often absolutely incredible. During your visit to a park, try to arrive early enough to catch a sunrise one day, and stay late enough to do some stargazing on another.

Don’t Count on Cell Reception

Finally, it is important to be aware that cell reception is non-existent in the vast majority of national parks. If you’ll be camping in the park, don’t plan on getting any work done while there. You’ll also want to avoid using a GPS that requires any cell signal. Instead, download directions before you arrive.

Use these tips to plan your national park day trip and you’ll be all set to have an amazing time!

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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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Saved in Vinton, Louisiana

06 Wednesday Oct 2021

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It had been a long couple of months. In the midst of the COVID pandemic, our family had inadvertently turned what was supposed to be a 4 week road trip into an entire summer on the road. We ended up circling the United States on our journey, making our way as far east from California as Washington DC. It had been a summer filled with some incredible adventures, and time well spent considering summer activities back in California were largely suspended. Having just spent some extended time in the south and in New Orleans, our family was en route west to California from Louisiana. We had hoped to make it as far as Austin, Texas during our long drive that day.

Cruising along Interstate 10, my husband noticed a tow truck in his side mirror, flashing his lights. We slowed a bit, and the tow truck driver pulled alongside us, pointing towards the rear of our Coachmen Mirada motorhome. We’d had people flag us down a couple times in our travels, and always for storage compartment door having inadvertently flung open. We knew that would be highly uncommon while cruising straight at highway speeds, but decided to pull off the highway at the next exit to take a better look. After pulling off into a gas station in Vinton, Louisiana, we realized what the helpful tow truck driver had been point to. One of our rear dualie tires on the right side of the coach was flat.

Just like that, we found ourselves stranded on the border of Louisiana and Texas in 110° heat. Justin took a few laps around the RV, and I began calling for roadside assistance. 

It was hot. The kids were grumpy. We were seemingly in the middle of nowhere. (No offense to the wonderful people of Vinton, Louisiana. It’s obviously not “nowhere” to you, but in that moment, it felt that way to us!)

Thankfully, our family had multiple avenues to explore in terms of finding assistance. We had roadside assistance coverage through AAA and State Farm for our personal auto, and figured we had our bases covered. Out of habit, we pursued the same channels we’d have used if our Honda Odyssey had gotten a flat, with Justin calling AAA while I called State Farm.

Trying to get RV roadside assistance through automobile channels was a terrible idea. Even trying to get the State Farm and AAA agents to properly identify the vehicle make and model in their systems was a process, and it became clear they had no frame of reference on how to support us. As we sat on the phone frustrated, Justin noticed the sticker on our windshield for Coach-Net. Having just bought the Mirada earlier in the year with one year of Coach-Net roadside included, we hadn’t yet used roadside assistance, and had completely forgotten about it as an option.

Right out of the gate with Coach-Net, it was clear this was a different experience. The Coach-Net agent was both helpful and friendly, immediately identifying both our coach and tire size, and promptly began working to identify an available mobile repair technician in the area to assist. 

While Justin was on the phone with Coach-Net, I wandered the area around the gas station. As luck would have it, I discovered a sign literally right across the street from the gas station that read “RV Park 500ft” with an arrow pointing right. I headed over to investigate, and stumbled upon our border oasis, complete with 50A hookups and an outdoor pool with not only one, but TWO waterslides. It was almost as if it magically appeared just for us that day!

We pulled out of the gas station and crawled our way to the RV park, feeling blessed to hook up and get both A/C units cranking while we waited for the repair tech. In the sweltering humid heat of the southern summer, this pool was like a mirage for the kids and I, who immediately jumped in to cool off.

Being in rural Louisiana in the height of summer, it took a few hours to find a local tire shop with the right tire and an available tech to change the flat roadsides (or poolside, as it were). We were back up and running with our new tire not long after the tech arrived, but the kids were having so much fun at the pool by then that we decided to stay put and enjoy our spot in Vinton, continuing on our journey to Austin the next morning. DOUBLE WATER SLIDES FOR THE WIN!

Vinton, Louisiana will live forever in family lore following our detour. If there’s anything our time on the road has taught our family, it’s that sometimes the unexpected adventures are the most memorable!

About The Author: Allison Gagnon

The Gagnon family is a fun-loving, adventure-seeking, outdoor-exploring, RV-obsessed family of six. They are on a quest to visit all 63 National Parks in the United States, and have a passion for exploring the country’s natural treasures and adventuring with their four children while they are still young. These adventures are made possible, in part, via travel in their 36-foot Coachmen Mirada motorhome. Having already visited 52 National Parks, they’ve found a sweet spot in the delicate balance between living a full, and sometimes, hectic life at home and finding respite in outdoor adventures with every chance they get. You can follow along on their journey at www.gagnonsgone.com. 

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Red White & Bethune: The “American Dream”

09 Thursday Sep 2021

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Meet the Bethunes, a true “American dream” family who had it all, or so they thought. They sold everything, bought a bus, and are now living their true dream life all across the country! Check them out!

When we were growing up, we were sold the same “American Dream” as you probably were. You know the one? Where you work all the time to try to afford the big house, newest car, white picket fence, and a Golden Retriever. All the while you are working very hard every day at a job you hate so that you can pay for your “dream”.

Two years ago, that was us. We had a successful Pet Styling Spaw, our kids were getting a private school education, and we had our “dream home” on two acres of land in the Tampa Bay Area. From the outside, it looked like we had the PERFECT life, but in all reality, we were just burning the candle at both ends to trying to do it ALL.

Every summer, we would take a month-long trip in our RV to a different destination. This summer was no different, we had an AMAZING time with our 3 kids, laughing and making irreplaceable memories all summer. When we pulled into our driveway with our Monaco Windsor Class A, we were already dreading going back to “reality”.

 As I was loading my arms up with a basket of dirty laundry, my husband Kyle turned to me and uttered a question that would change the trajectory of our lives, forever. “Babe”, he whispered, “What if we sold everything, the house, the salon, all of our crap, and we bought a bus, remodeled it, and traveled the country?”

 A look of terror instantly came over my face as his question ended. My brain was frantically buzzing and about to short circuit. What in the world was he thinking!? We couldn’t possibly do that. You aren’t allowed to do that until your kids are grown and you retire. It’s totally out of the question. No. No way can we do this. 

I looked down at my expectant husband and I calmly answered “Babe, you know we can’t do that, it’s just not possible.” I kissed him on the forehead and sullenly went back to loading all our massive amount of laundry back into our “dream home”.

For the next two weeks, as I was shaving dog’s backsides, I kept dreaming each day of that beautiful life where we are at the Grand Canyon watching our kids laugh, play, and be free. I saw all our oversized smiles as we lived in the outdoors, experiencing new places, journeying wherever we wanted. THAT was a dream life, I thought.

On that 14th day of daydreaming, after work, tired and covered in dog hair, I walked up to my husband, and I gushed “Let’s do it.” He had an extremely puzzled look on his face as he questioned, “Uh, do what?”. In that moment a massive grin spread across my lips and up into my eyes as I stated, “Buy a bus, remodel it, sell our house, get rid of all the crap, and live a life of our dreams, traveling across the country.”

And the rest, my friends, is history. 

We bought a bus, spent 4 months remodeling the ENTIRE thing, front to back. We sold our house, getting rid of all the excess material possessions we truly didn’t need. Then, we moved into our TRUE dream home, a 1983 Silver Eagle Bus. 

We have been in that bus for nearly a year and a half now and I have to say, this was the single most important decision of our entire lives. Fulltime with our 3 kids and 4 dogs has truly SAVED our family.  Our marriage has never been stronger, the relationship with our kids has never been this connected, and we can finally say that we are totally happy, 100% to our core.

When we look back, we wonder what took us so long to take this leap. I suspect it was that society told us what was expected of us, we were supposed to live a certain way. We were told that you grow up, get married, buy a house you can’t afford, make sure you have new cars, don’t forget the white picket fence, have kids, send them to school, get the Golden Retriever, and never have family dinners around the table because you’re working too hard to pay for all the things that are supposed to make you happy….

We are incredibly thankful that we created this new dream life of ours. To us, THIS is what life is all about. Now, we disconnect from technology to truly connect with each other. Our kids are experiencing places that some adults will never get the opportunity to see. We get to meet new people, from all walks of life, right here in the USA. Our kids can BE KIDS and live outside. They get as dirty as possible, go fishing, hiking, and learn about this beautiful country we live in. More importantly, we are raising kind humans that have love for everyone and nature. 

As you can imagine, after we have curated this beautiful dream life of ours, we want to make sure that we protect it. The only one we trust with our little family is Coach-Net. No matter what this new life brings us, we have the peace of mind knowing that they are by our side. Whether that be from roadside assistance, having a RV problem and being able to speak with their RV Specialists, or having the most important tire and wheel protection. We feel safe and secure, Coach-Net will be there for us, no matter what we come across in our travels. 

Coach-Net isn’t just for Full Time RVers, it is for weekenders too! Being a weekend camper, you may not be as hands on with your rigs as the full time RVers are. This means that unexpected things are bound to come up when you take your RV out to go camping. Make sure that you have that protection behind you, so you can sit back and relax once you get to your camping spot. Coach-Net even has protection for towables in addition to your daily driver.

Want to know our only regret though? That we didn’t start this amazing life sooner. Don’t have any regrets of your own, live a life you WANT to wake up to and make sure to bring Coach-Net with you along the way!

About The Author: The Bethune’s

We are a Tampa-based family of 2 adults, 3 kids, and 4 dogs living in our remodeled 1983 Silver Eagle Bus! We are a Full-Time Family who is always up for an adventure.

Tag along as we show you America, through our lens!

Tune in and get to know us—we’re just an average American family!

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Willie D. ~ “We LOVE Coach-Net!”

4 Rockin’ Places to Go RVing in Nebraska

09 Thursday Sep 2021

Posted by in The Great Outdoors

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“We get it. Some people will write Nebraska off and never give it another thought. Or another chance. But we also know that there are enlightened truth-seekers out there willing to take the time to find out what makes our beautiful state so appealing, charming, and disarming. Welcome enlightened truth-seekers!” – https://visitnebraska.com/

While often overlooked as a travel destination, Nebraska is a Midwestern hidden gem. It offers majestic landscapes, rich history of trailblazers, and dramatic natural wonders surrounding vibrant cities and culture. So the next time you cross through Nebraska on your RV journey, consider stopping a few days at some of these stunning and noteworthy natural and historical landmarks featuring unique rock formations.

Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Chimney Rock (Photo by Levi Henley)

The Chimney, Smokestack, Teepee, Wigwam…Chimney Rock National Historic Site, just outside the tiny town of Bayard, has been called many things throughout the centuries. The iconic rock formation that rises close to 480 feet above the North Platte River served as a landlocked beacon along the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails during the 1800s. 

Accounts of Chimney Rock were recorded in the diaries and journals of early emigrants. They mentioned that the sight of the landmark made them “glad to see that they are going the right direction, and it spired to the heavens.”

While the spire is about 30 feet shorter than it was over 150 years ago, the landscape looks much the same way as it did during the western migration. Today, visitors can learn all about the area at the national historic site’s museum and even walk around a cemetery with graves dating back to the 19th century.

Folks wanting to make an overnight camping trip to this captivating site can stay just down the road at Chimney Rock Pioneer Crossing Campground. The park has the best panoramic views of Chimney Rock, surrounding rock formations, wildlife, and a big open sky.

Scotts Bluff National Monument

Scotts Bluff National Monument (Photo by National Park Service)

Continue your journey down the Oregon Trail at the next stop. About a 30-minute drive northwest of Chimney Rock National Historic Site via NE-92 W sits another significant portion of the California, Oregon, and Mormon Trails.  Towering 800 feet above the North Platte River, Scotts Bluff has served as a landmark for both Native Americans and westward-bound emigrants.

Visitors to this 3,000-acre national monument rich in geological, paleontological, and human history, can explore the visitor’s center and peruse its exhibits, go on a hike, drive the 1.6-mile Summit Road to catch a view from the top of Scotts Bluff or attend a ranger program.  All of this is available for free.  Plus, for your convenience, the local communities of Scottsbluff and Gering offer family-friendly campgrounds.

Indian Cave State Park

Indian Cave State Park (Photo by Nebraska Game and Parks)

On the opposite corner of Nebraska, to the southeast region, is the picturesque Indian Cave State Park. This over 3,000-acre camping, hiking, and boating paradise borders the mighty Missouri River and is nestled amongst a variety of hardwood trees, shrubs, and other flora.

The main geological feature of the state park is the Indian Cave. It features prehistoric Native American petroglyphs that can be viewed from a wooden boardwalk extending the length of the cave wall. 

Visitors can also enjoy an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, boating, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, archery, wildlife viewing, picnicking, and camping. The state park hosts guided tours and special events for day-use visitors and campers throughout the year as well. 

For more information on this intriguing RV camping spot, check out outdoornebraska.gov.

Toadstool Geological Park and Campground

Toadstool Geographic Park (Photo by Visit Nebraska)

If you’re willing to travel off the beaten path down washboard roads and away from cell service, then this next adventure to the far northwest corner of Nebraska may be your next detour. The unique rock formations resembling mushrooms of Toadstool Geological Park are a part of what is referred to as the Nebraska Badlands.

Toadstool Geological Park is located in the Oglala National Grassland and includes a campground for those wanting to explore and hike the trails several days in a row. Day visitors and overnight campers can utilize a self–guided trail brochure to learn about the grasslands, geological formations, and fossil deposits.

There are three hiking trails to choose from with varying degrees of difficulty and range from 1 to 5 miles. The campground consists of six sites (long enough for rigs up to 30 feet, according to Always on Liberty’s review) with picnic tables and fire rings, and there are two vault toilets. Unfortunately, there is no water or hookups, so come prepared. The campground is open year-round with limited services from mid-November to early May. For more information on this geological anomaly or to learn more about RV camping there, visit the USDA Forest Service site.

(As with any camping venture, be leary of weather conditions, Traveling and camping at Toadstool Geographic Park and Campground during a storm or downpour is not advised, especially considering the entrance is a dirt road over 10 miles long.)

Wherever You Roam Coach-Net Can Help Your Traveling Home

Whether traveling through the Midwest or the Northeast, RV carefree using Coach-Net’s 24/7 RV Technical & Roadside Assistance. When you purchase a Coach-Net membership, help from a trusted RV expert is always just a phone call away. But that’s not the only benefit members can receive. Coach-Net offers many additional services, including Tire & Wheel Protection, Extended Service Agreement, RV Paint & Fabric Protection, Guaranteed Asset Protection, and more. For more information on how Coach-Net can provide peace of mind one RV adventure at a time, contact us today!

“As an RV owner, you owe it to yourself to have the protection you need when you need it most. You can rest easy knowing that Coach-Net has you covered.”

-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 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 

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Mike S. ~ “I am very pleased I chose Coach-Net! When I needed you, you were there for me!”

Saving Energy On A Family Camping Trip

04 Wednesday Aug 2021

Posted by in Kids and Camping, The Great Outdoors

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There are now 94.5 million camper households throughout North America, with RV ownership at an all-time high of 13 million households. A little over 50% of RV users bring along their family when camping, according to Kampgrounds of America. Camping is mostly seen as a respite from everyday life, but parents may find that it’s also a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to learn how to save energy. Awareness and the practice of energy-saving lower the costs of camping, and lead to taking care of nature – the very thing that campers are enthusiastic about.

Clean Resources

Each family member should understand what green energy is in order to make good choices. The U.S. Energy Information Administration says that using clean renewables reduces the need for importing energy and decreases the use of “dirty” fossil fuels. Field trips, games, and role-modeling are some of the ways that even younger children can discover that solar, hydro, wind, geothermal and biomass are sources of clean energy. Through familiarity, each family member will be able to come up with ideas on how to make use of renewable resources to save energy.

Conserving Energy

You can start going green by using the most popular type of renewable energy. Install solar panels on your RV to conserve energy. Solar energy is practically free, and is obviously in abundance wherever you go, even when it’s cloudy. It keeps the appliances, lights, chargers and heaters going. If your campsites don’t have electrical hook-ups, you can still enjoy watching TV, have a cool drink from your refrigerator, or ensure you have light to read by at night. 

You can also reduce your energy consumption by hanging wet clothes on a clothesline rather than using a dryer. Wind is another free natural resource. Together with the sun, it can dry whatever you wash, and a clothesline can easily be constructed wherever you’re camping. Using less propane is also a good goal. The Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education says that propane is a popular choice for campers because of its portability, but it also produces carbon dioxide, the leading cause of climate change. Instead of propane, get that grill going and barbecue to your heart’s content. Cooking outdoors is an exciting activity for the whole family, and everyone can take part in the preparation and cooking.

Cutting Down On Electricity

Organize your fridge, and arrange your food and drinks neatly so that it’s not over-packed. RV fridges work best when there’s space for air to circulate. Find ways to lessen the need to open the refrigerator door. This will make it run more efficiently, and thus, conserve energy. 

Family members can take turns in cooking outdoors. It saves electricity and keeps your RV’s interior cooler resulting in less air conditioner use. Assign specific people to check leaks, cover vents that let the heat out, and identify appliances or anything that may be turned on, but is not being used.   

There are many more ways to care for the RV and save energy while you’re camping: the trick is to make it fun and treat everything as an adventure. Over time, energy conservation, even while camping, will be second nature to the whole family.

Author: Alicia Rennoll

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5 Unforgettable RV Trips in Iowa

04 Wednesday Aug 2021

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Iowa sits in “Heartland America,” sandwiched between the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. A landscape of rolling plains, golden cornfields, and quaint Main Streets, Iowa is rich in culture, history, and activity. It’s waiting to be discovered and explored, cherished and memorialized in selfies. Load the family in the RV and turn the wheel towards the Midwest. It’s time to make some memories in the Hawkeye State.

Get Wet and Wild at Iowa Great Lakes

Iowa Great Lakes are a chain of five glacial lakes in northwest Iowa. This oasis is truly a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Open year-round, folks, young and young-at-heart, can enjoy every type of water sport and pastime imaginable, from sailing to ice fishing. 

Enjoy parasailing, sailing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and going on a glass-bottom boat tour in the spring and summer. In the winter, snowmobiling, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and hunting are on the agenda. Marinas and outfitters offer rentals and guide services.

Besides fun at the lake, visitors can play all day at Arnolds Park Amusement Park or Boji Splash Indoor Waterpark, tour museums, choose from a variety of delicious restaurants, shop till they drop, and much more. Plus, you won’t find any shortage in RV parks. There are easily a dozen campgrounds surrounding the lakes.

Travel Back in Time in the Amana Colonies

The seven villages that make up the Amana Colonies were established in 1856 in Eastern Iowa by German Pietists escaping religious persecution. Utilizing craft and farming skills learned overseas, the settlers maintained a nearly complete self-sufficient economy for almost a century. These specialty trades were passed down from one generation to the next.  

Today, the Amana Colonies have become a tourist destination, offering delicious German cuisine, arts and crafts, handcrafted furniture, and outdoor recreation. Seasonal events and activities are planned throughout the year. Festivals like Maifest, Wurst Festival, and Oktoberfest include food, great brews, live music, kids’ activities, contests, and so much more.

Besides hotels and bed and breakfasts, visitors can stay at the Amana RV Park. But it’s a good idea to check the Amana Colonies website beforehand to plan your RV trip around one of the annual festivals.

Venture Underground at Maquoketa Caves State Park

If you’ve had enough of the hot, humid summer weather above ground, try venturing below the surface in Iowa’s best caves.  Maquoketa Caves State Park consists of about 13 caves that visitors can walk or crawl through (for those serious spelunkers). A 6-mile trail winds through the park and showcases its most profound features, including enormous bluffs, geologic formations, forests, and scenic overlooks.

For more in-depth information on the geology of the cave formations and state park establishment, visitors can take a trip to the interpretive center. Best of all, everything can be accessed steps from your RV if you opt to camp at the park’s newly upgraded campground.

Explore the Charming Town of Winterset

What do covered bridges, John Wayne, and apple cider have in common? Winterset, Iowa, of course.

Winterset is the county seat of Madison County, also referred to as the “Covered Bridge Capital of Iowa.” What was once 20 covered bridges peppered in and around Winterset is now a mere six. These remaining historical structures collectively share the same name as the romance novel and movie adaptation, Bridges of Madison County.  They can all be explored while driving along the 82-mile Covered Bridges Scenic Byway. Plus, a great time to visit Winterset is in October, when the annual Covered Bridge Festival is celebrated.

Culter-Donahoe Covered Bridge, one of the covered bridges, sits in the historic Winterset City Park, which is right next to the Winterset City Park Campground. Located just minutes from downtown, RVers will want to set up camp here while they tour the town. 

Winterset’s town square is full of historical buildings and novelty shops, and eateries. The Madison County Courthouse stands sentinel in the center of the square. Folks will also find the John Wayne Birthplace Museum, the only museum in the world dedicated to the legend, nearby. The massive establishment houses “the largest diversified exhibit of John Wayne artifacts in existence, including original movie posters, film wardrobe, scripts, contracts, letters, artwork and sculpture, and even one of his last customized automobiles.”

Need a break from sightseeing? Head on over to the Winterset Cidery for a flight of craft cider concoctions. Sit out on the open deck overlooking the endless apple orchard and soak in a bit of the Heartland’s sunshine.

Fill up at the World’s Largest Truck Stop

Truck stops are essential for all drivers, RVers included. It’s where travelers fuel up and grab a bite to eat. It’s even better when a truck stop has even more conveniences like restaurants, laundry facilities, and a section for RVs to park and stay overnight if needed. While there are many of these travel centers around the nation, none compare to Iowa 80, dubbed the “World’s Largest Truck Stop.”

“Some say Iowa 80 Truckstop is like a small city, others have likened it to a Trucker’s Disneyland, all can agree it is a place not to be missed.” The website goes on to explain, “Iowa 80 Truckstop features eight restaurant choices, a convenience store, gift store, Super Truck Showroom, barbershop, chiropractor, dentist, movie theater, workout room, laundry facilities, gas islands, diesel fuel center, truck service center, Truckomat truck wash, Dogomat pet wash, CAT Scale, 24- private showers, trucking museum and more!”

Be Sure You are RV Road Ready Before Departing

There is a certain amount of preparation that goes into making your RV ready for any trip. While you are checking off your list of to-do’s, be sure to add “signing up for Coach-Net Roadside Assistance” if you haven’t already done so.  Coach-Net is your safety net for all of your RV adventures. Learn more here.

“As an RV owner, you owe it to yourself to have the protection you need when you need it most. You can rest easy knowing that Coach-Net has you covered.”

About The Author: Levi 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 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 

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Mike S. ~ “I am very pleased I chose Coach-Net! When I needed you, you were there for me!”

Awesome National Park Programs You May Not Know About

07 Wednesday Jul 2021

Posted by in Kids and Camping, National Parks, The Great Outdoors

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It’s no secret that our national parks sites are absolutely amazing. From breathtaking views to incredible hikes to awesome history lessons, there’s something for everyone in these spectacular places. What many people don’t know is that in addition to keeping these parks, monuments, historic sites, and trails in tip-top shape, the National Parks Service also offers a variety of programs to enhance your visit to each location.

As a traveler, there’s a good chance you find yourself visiting NPS sites often. (And if you don’t, you should change that, because as mentioned above, these places are incredible.) Therefore, it only makes sense for you to learn about all of the awesome programs the NPS has to offer so you can take full advantage and make your visits as awesome as possible.

Unfortunately, if you don’t know what you’re looking for, finding out about these programs can be a little bit tricky. That’s where this article comes into play.

Below we’ve listed 6 amazing programs offered in the national parks. Determine which ones are useful to you, and make sure to use them on your next outing to a national park.

“America the Beautiful” Pass

First and foremost, we absolutely must mention the “America the Beautiful” pass. This pass allows the holder to enter all NPS sites without paying entry fees. The cost for this pass is $80 for 12 months. As you might imagine, it can be a huge money saver if you visit several national parks a year.

Other Types of Passes

Even better than the “America the Beautiful” pass are the special passes provided to seniors, military members, and people with disabilities.

Senior passes are provided for those ages 62 and older, and the cost is a mere $20 a year or $80 for a lifetime pass. Military passes are for current US military members and Gold Star families, and are free of charge. Lastly, the Access Pass is for anyone with a permanent disability, and is also free to obtain.

In addition to entry to the parks, these three passes all offer cardholders discounts on certain campsites.

“Every Kid Outdoors” Program

Another way to get a national parks pass is through the “Every Kid Outdoors” program. This program gives every 4th grader (and 5th grader for 2021 only) an annual national parks pass for free. The goal of the program is to ensure every child has a chance to see the majesty of America’s national parks while making memories outside.

The pass is good from September 1st of the child’s 4th grade year through August 31st of the following year, and can be obtained through this site.

Junior Ranger Program

Even if your kid isn’t in 4th or 5th grade right now, there is still an NPS program that is wonderful for them. The Junior Ranger Program is tons of fun for kids ages 5–13, and gives them the opportunity to be fully engaged in their visits to the parks.

To participate, simply visit a NPS visitor center and ask for a Junior Ranger book. These are usually free, but occasionally you may be charged a small fee. Fill out the book as you explore the park, return it to a ranger, be sworn in as an official Junior Ranger, and go home with a park-specific badge to display on a sash, banner, or anywhere else you see fit.

BARK Ranger Program

Have fur babies rather than human children? If so, the BARK Ranger program might be of interest to you.

Similar to the Junior Ranger Program, this program gives dogs (and kitties) an opportunity to join the NPS team by earning special badges. In this case, the badges are park-specific dog tags, and are earned by learning the rules of visiting a national park.

Volunteers-in-Parks Program

Last but not least, there is the Volunteers-in-Parks program. This awesome program gives national park lovers a chance to donate their skills and time in order to help improve the parks. It is open to all individuals, but children under the age of 18 must have signed permission from a parent or guardian.

In return for their efforts, volunteers who complete at least 250 hours of work in a single calendar year will be offered a volunteer pass that gives them free entry to NPS sites.

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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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