Tag Archives: RV Destinations

From San Diego to Klamath: A Journey Along the Pacific Coast Highway’s

23 Tuesday May 2023

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Cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway is a must for RVers who love road-tripping and exploring new places. The route, which spans the California coast, offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming towns. But aside from the scenic beauty, the Pacific Coast Highway also features unique attractions for RVers that are sure to make a trip even more unforgettable. Here are some of the one-of-a-kind attractions that you can experience along your Pacific Coast Highway journey from San Diego to Klamath.

One-of-a-Kind Attractions for RVers

Balboa Park – San Diego, CA

The park covers over 1,200 acres and boasts lush gardens, cultural institutions, and recreational spaces. Visitors can explore the San Diego Zoo or wander through the numerous museums and galleries, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the Natural History Museum. For those looking for outdoor activities, Balboa Park offers hiking trails, playgrounds, and open-air concerts and performances. The park also hosts several festivals and events, such as the Balboa Park December Nights and the San Diego Earth Fair.

Solvang, CA

Solvang is a charming Danish-style town in the Santa Ynez Valley, just off the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s known for its Danish architecture, traditional bakeries, and unique shops. Visitors can enjoy exploring the town’s windmills, visiting the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, or sampling the delicious pastries and bread. With its picturesque streets and delightful atmosphere, Solvang is a must-see destination for anyone traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Hearst Castle – San Simeon, CA

If you’re a history buff or an architecture enthusiast, Hearst Castle is a must-visit attraction. This opulent mansion was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century and features a mix of Mediterranean, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. The Hearst Castle offers guided tours that take you through the mansion’s grand rooms, gardens, and pools. You can also explore the museum and learn about the castle’s history and Hearst’s influence on American culture.

Bixby Bridge – Big Sur, CA

The Bixby Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Pacific Coast Highway. This massive concrete arch bridge spans over a deep canyon and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the coastline. You can park your RV nearby and take a short hike to the bridge for a closer look or snap some photos from the roadside vista points. The Bixby Bridge is an incredible feat of engineering, and it’s also a popular spot for photographers and travelers looking for that perfect Instagram shot.

Cannery Row – Monterey, CA

Cannery Row is a historic waterfront district in Monterey that has been transformed into a bustling tourist destination. The area used to be home to sardine canning factories, but now it’s filled with restaurants, shops, and attractions. You can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features a diverse collection of marine life, or explore the shops and galleries that sell local art and crafts. Cannery Row hosts several annual events, such as the Whalefest Monterey and the Cannery Row Antique and Classic Car Show.

Winchester Mystery House – San Jose, CA

Built by Sarah Winchester, heiress to the Winchester rifle fortune, the house is a labyrinthine maze of over 160 rooms and numerous oddities, such as staircases leading to nowhere, doors that open onto walls, and secret passageways. The construction of the house was motivated by Sarah’s belief in ghosts and spirits, and she allegedly designed it to confuse and deter any malevolent entities that may be haunting her. Today, visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about its intriguing history and unusual architecture. The Winchester Mystery House is a true marvel of eccentricity and ingenuity and a must-see attraction for anyone traveling along the PCH.

Glass Beach – Fort Bragg, CA

This remarkable and picturesque beach is covered in sea glass. The glass is the result of decades of trash and garbage dumped into the ocean and then polished by the waves. Visitors can stroll along the beach and marvel at the sparkling glass in a rainbow of colors. It’s worth noting that removing large quantities of glass is prohibited, but visitors are welcome to take a few pieces as a souvenir. Glass Beach serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment and the resilience of nature to transform trash into something beautiful.

Trees of Mystery – Klamath, CA

The Trees of Mystery is a quirky and entertaining attraction in Klamath, featuring a unique collection of redwood trees shaped by nature and human intervention. One of the park’s highlights is the Canopy Trail, an elevated walkway that winds through the treetops of the redwood forest. The park also features several hiking trails, an aerial tram, and a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the redwoods. Visitors can also take guided tours that offer insights into the ecology and biology of these majestic trees.

Experience the Pacific Coast Highway with Confidence:

Let Coach-Net Be Your Trusted RV Partner

The Pacific Coast Highway offers a remarkable journey full of awe-inspiring natural beauty, charming towns, and one-of-a-kind attractions for RVers. From the lush gardens and cultural institutions of Balboa Park in San Diego to the unique redwood trees at Trees of Mystery in Klamath, there’s no shortage of fascinating places to visit along the way.

Along with the stunning views and unique attractions, it’s important to have peace of mind while on the road. That’s where Coach-Net comes in. With its comprehensive roadside assistance services, RVers can enjoy their travels knowing that they have a team of experts available 24/7 to help them in case of emergencies. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine trouble, or a lockout, Coach-Net has you covered.

With Coach-Net, RVers can experience the Pacific Coast Highway with confidence and enjoy all the one-of-a-kind attractions that this incredible route has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let Coach-Net be your trusted partner on your unforgettable journey.

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.

Micheal M. ~ “I have been so pleased the last two times we have had to use Coach-Net. The first time was to tow my minivan from Bowie, Maryland to Sterling, Virginia. My hold time with the call agents was never long. They were very good about calling me back with information and making sure I was safe. The tow driver came within an hour and was very friendly and professional. I was also amazed that we were covered for the whole distance. The second time was to get a technician to unlock my car door to get my keys out. Again, I had very little wait time. I didn’t even have my Coach-Net card because my purse was locked inside my car. The call agent was able to find my information with a few other details. The technician came within an hour and was extremely efficient. It has been a pleasure to deal with call agents and service providers. They make a stressful situation less nerve-wracking with their kindness and professionalism.”

8 Things You Need to Know Before RV Camping Baja California

17 Monday Apr 2023

Posted by in RV Safety, Tips & Tricks, Travel Destinations

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Ever thought about taking your RV across the Mexican border? Not only is this totally possible, I 100% recommend it! RV camping in Baja California sure has been a life-changing experience and we wouldn’t hesitate to do it all over again.

All that said, there are some things you will want to know before you head down to Baja in your RV. Here are our top tips for visiting this magical place.

Gather Your Paperwork

As is the case with any international trip, you will want to get your paperwork in order before camping in Baja California. A valid passport or passport card is required. Additionally, you will need Mexican liability insurance, and we recommend adding full coverage insurance just to be safe.

If your RV or vehicle still has a lien on it, it is a good idea to obtain a letter of permission from your lender. Lastly, you will need to stop at the border to get an FMM form to legally stay within Mexico for any length of time.

Note: It’s also a good idea to learn about what your roadside assistance offers in Mexico. Coach-Net coverage does extend into Mexico, but it is a bit more limited.

Pack Must-Have Items

Some things are hard to find in Mexico. We found that out the hard way when searching for things like Dr. Pepper, brown sugar (the molasses kind), and a replacement tire for our dolly. Because of this, we recommend that you pack anything you can’t live without, including your favorite foods and drinks. (Just remember that fruits, veggies, and meats can’t cross the border.)

You’ll also want to pack at least one spare tire for every vehicle you take, as the roads are less than ideal in some spots and blowouts are not uncommon. Another important one? A hefty surge protector with an electrical management system in case you encounter a park with less-than-ideal electric hookups.

Stock Your Phone with Apps

There are three things we highly recommend downloading before camping Baja California. These include:

  1. Google Translate — Be sure to also download the Spanish language translations so you don’t need an internet connection to communicate.
  2. Google Maps — Google Maps did a decent job of navigating us all the way down the peninsula. Again, just be sure to download enough maps to cover the entire peninsula so that internet access isn’t necessary for finding your way around. Of course, it’s also good to carry a paper map!
  3. iOverlander — This is the perfect app for finding info on places to stay while camping Baja California.

Think About Internet

Wi-Fi is available at some restaurants and cafes in Baja. However, if you wish to stay connected outside of those places, you must think about how to go about that.

One option is to buy a Telcel SIM card (they call them “chips”) when you arrive. These can be purchased at just about any OXXO convenience store and the cell signal will work in most major cities. Make sure the chip you get is a Telcel one specifically and not an OXXO Cel one, because we ran into that ourselves just after crossing into Mexico.

If you need something even more reliable, I recommend investing in Starlink. Just be sure you have a battery and inverter to run the Starlink hardware!

Don’t Drink the Water

You probably know this already, but it’s worth stating that you can’t drink water straight from the tap in Mexico. You can use tap water to fill your fresh tank, wash dishes, and shower. Just be sure you visit one of the many agua purificada locations to refill drinking water jugs.

Be Prepared for Military Checkpoints

There are military checkpoints along the major highways down the peninsula. If you don’t expect these going in, they can be a bit intimidating. Don’t worry though, there’s nothing scary about these checkpoints. Pull up, roll down your window, and talk to the military personnel there. In some cases, they will ask where you’re headed and then wave you on. In other cases, they will want to search your vehicle.

If your vehicle is searched, simply follow the individual doing the search to ensure they don’t try to snag anything. This is a rare occurrence, but it can happen. If they do try to pick something up, a firm “no” should get them to put it back down.

Get Gas When You Can

In some areas, especially in the northern part of the peninsula, you can drive for miles and miles without seeing a single gas station. Therefore, it is important to fuel up when you do see a station, even if you don’t think you need gas just yet. When it comes to fuel, it’s always better to fill up too often than to risk running out.

Don’t Drive at Night

Our final bit of advice? Don’t drive at night. The roads are very narrow in some places, often with no shoulder and a sharp drop-off on either side, and no median between you and the traffic passing the opposite direction. And since the roads are not lit, it can be difficult to stay in your narrow lane in the dark. Moreover, because of the oncoming traffic and drop-offs, a small mistake could be dangerous.

On top of all that, there are potholes, topes (speed bumps), and animals that like to cross the road unexpectedly. Contending with these things in the dark is much more difficult and dangerous than it is during the day.

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.

Cindy & Steve ~ “My husband and I broke down on the interstate and Coach-Net continually called every 20 min to ensure we were safe. Coach-Net has helped us many times and has been very quick to respond each time.”

A Budget-Friendly Day Trip to Providence, Rhode Island

09 Thursday Mar 2023

Posted by in Travel Destinations

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One of the many amazing trips we took over the summer was to Providence, Rhode Island. We didn’t actually stay in Rhode Island but instead took a day trip to Providence from a nearby campground. We spent the entire day exploring this amazing little city with friends and had a blast doing it!

Read on to learn more about our Providence day trip adventures and learn about things to do in Providence.

Things to Do in Providence

Wondering what to do in Providence, RI? We’re here to help. Below are our favorite things we saw and did on our Providence day trip, as well as a few things we hope to do next time. The best part? All of these things are totally budget-friendly, and many are totally free things to do in Providence, so you can have fun without breaking the bank!

Check Out Historic Buildings

Like the rest of New England, Providence has a rich history. Why not brush up on your American history by visiting some of the historic spots in this beautiful city?

1707 Stephen Hopkins House
1707 Stephen Hopkins House
  • The Rhode Island State House is absolutely gorgeous and a wonderful example of great architecture. Free tours are offered every hour on the hour from 9am–2pm, Monday through Friday.
  • The Providence Public Library is another impressive historic building. Free one-hour architectural tours of the building take place at 10:30am on the first and third Tuesday of every month.
  • The 1707 Stephen Hopkins House also offers free tours. These happen on Wednesdays from 11am–2pm all year long, and on Saturdays from April to November. You can also make an appointment to see the house at other times.
  • Benefit Street is home to a full mile of historic buildings. Stroll the street and admire the historic architecture.

Admire Art

Besides the historic buildings scattered throughout, one of the things we found so charming about Providence was the art scene. It has a very artsy vibe, something I always find appealing.

If you want to check out some art by local artists, be sure to attend Gallery Night, which takes place on the third Thursday of every month. Hop on the free shuttle bus and hop off at each stop to explore galleries, art shops, and museums that all offer free admission during the event.

Dive into History at Blackstone River Valley National Memorial

Our first stop during our day trip to Providence was at Slater Mill, a part of the Blackstone River Valley National Memorial. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to tour the mill itself, but the kids enjoyed watching the park video, looking at the equipment through the windows, and strolling the grounds to see the river and other buildings.

The Junior Ranger program at this park was unique, which we really appreciated!

Learn Something New at Roger Williams National Memorial

We also made a stop at Roger Williams National Memorial. This is a teeny tiny NPS site, and the visitor center is even tinier. That said, it is absolutely packed with information on Roger Williams, and I was surprised by the interesting life that this man led.

We really liked the ranger at this site, as he was great with the kids and happily answered all their questions.

Stroll Roger Williams Park

Another one of the many things to do in Providence is to pay Roger Williams Park a visit. This park is an attraction on its own with many walking paths and all the usual park amenities, but it also plays host to a variety of other attractions.

We visited Carousel Village, which is run by the Roger Williams Park Zoo. This little fun spot has a historic carousel ($2 rides) and a mini train ($3 rides) for the kids. There is also a super fun playground right next door to the carousel, which features Hasbro-themed play areas.

The Botanical Center is also located at Roger Williams Park. It features a lovely little waterfall, a number of beautiful flowers from around the world, and more. There is also a fun scavenger hunt for kids in this garden, making it a fun place for the whole family!

Admission to the Botanical center is just $5 for adults, $2 for kids aged 6–12, and is free for kids under 6 years of age.

Enjoy Free Museum Admission

Providence has a number of fantastic museums. Unfortunately, most of these cost money to enter, something that the traveler on a budget may not be able to afford. This is where free museum nights come into play:

  • The Providence Children’s Museum is free on certain Friday evenings during the summer months.
  • The RISD Museum is an art museum associated with the Rhode Island School of Design, and it offers free admission every third Thursday from 5pm–9pm and on Sundays from 10am–5pm.

Another option for free museum admission involves purchasing a reciprocal museum membership and using that to enter Providence museums.

Explore the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium

Another affordable museum option is the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium. While this awesome museum doesn’t have a free night, admission to the museum is a mere $2, and children under 4 years of age enter for free. It really doesn’t get much cheaper than that!

Where to Eat in Providence

Now you know what to do in Providence, RI, but you’ll also need to eat during your day trip to Providence. Below are the food spots we visited and highly recommend.

Poco Loco Tacos

A super cute taco and burrito joint with some seriously creative menu items, we adored Poco Loco Tacos and will absolutely visit again when we’re in the area. In fact, we even considered going out of our way to pay for the place one more visit before moving our RV.

We loved the PBJ burrito and the avocado fritters. That said, anything you order will be delicious. The best part? This place is incredibly affordable!

Dear Hearts Ice Cream

After dinner, we were in the mood for something sweet. Our solution was Dear Hearts Ice Cream just down the road from the taco shop.

I’ve said before that I am an ice cream fan through and through, and I stand by that statement. That said, I am picky about my ice cream and don’t recommend mediocre places. While Dear Hearts wasn’t the best ice cream we’ve ever had (that has to be Leopold’s in Savannah, GA, or Braum’s in Oklahoma), it was definitely a solid option and is well worth trying.

Hopefully, this list of awesome things to do in Providence helps you plan an incredible and budget-friendly trip. Come back and let me know what you did during your time in the city!

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.

Ronald B. ~ “I love Coach-Net! The response is always sympathetic and rapid!”

5 Reasons to Travel in an RV Instead of A Car

11 Thursday Aug 2022

Posted by in Traveling with your Pet, Uncategorized

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RVs are a great way to travel. They take you off the beaten path and into nature. There are many types of RVs to choose from, ranging from Class A motor homes to Class C motor homes and even pop-up campers. The choice is yours based on your needs and your budget.

These vehicles have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, and some people are even converting their RVs into permanent homes. No wonder! It’s a great way to lower overhead and enjoy living and traveling without sacrificing comfort or style. There are a variety of reasons why people choose to travel in recreational vehicles. Here are some reasons you might want to as well.

RVs Bring More Comfort

There’s no comparison between the comfort of a car and that of a recreational vehicle. With an RV, you often have access to a bathroom and kitchen too, so you don’t have to deal with the discomforts of “holding it” until you can find a bathroom or waiting until you can find a restaurant to eat in. You can cook a meal on the road and enjoy it in comfort.

When you travel the country in an RV, you explore the countryside in comfort and style, without having to put up with the hassles of a traditional hotel stay (or worse, having to sleep in your car). Your lodging travels with you and it’s easy to access.

RVs Can Be a Cheaper Way to Travel

Recreational vehicles are often cheaper to run than rental cars or public transportation, especially if you camp instead of using paid overnight sites. Some large box stores, like Walmart, welcome recreational vehicles overnight too. Needless to say, that’s cheaper than staying in a hotel. The conveniences of home can be brought along without worrying about paying for lodgings. If you have an RV or camper van, then you’re probably already aware of some of the great benefits that bring. Your lodging travels with you.

RVs Have More Storage Space

If you like to bring the house with you when you travel, an RV is the obvious choice. The spacious interior allows you to set up your house inside for maximal comfort and convenience when you travel. The first and foremost benefit is that you will have more space and storage required to accommodate your personal items. This will give you the freedom to carry along your favorite things while traveling.

You Can Bring Your Pets Comfortably

One of the worst aspects of traveling in a car is how hard it makes it to bring your pets along, but it’s easier in a recreational vehicle with the extra room. Although there are a few guidelines you need to follow when traveling with pets in an RV, the benefits are well worth the extra effort. Not only will your pet have a wonderful time riding with you, but you also get to enjoy his/her company in a different way than you usual. Don’t leave Fido behind!

A RV Can Be Your Office on Wheels

RVs have long been an affordable and fun way to travel the open road. And now, thanks to technology and the entrepreneurial spirit, you can get an office on wheels to stay productive no matter where ever you roam. If you’re using your recreational vehicle as an office, you may also be able to write off a portion of it to save on taxes. Many people dream of having an office in their RV so they can travel all over the country while accomplishing their work goals. It’s more achievable than ever!

The Bottom Line

Traveling in an RV is an experience unlike any other. From the amount of freedom that comes from traveling wherever, whenever, to the amenities and comforts of home, a recreational vehicle can make your travels easier, cheaper, and more comfortable. RVs are anything but just a vehicle to get from one place to another. They are, in fact, a home away from home for those who love to travel in comfort. Take advantage of it by planning an excursion of your own, RV-style!

Douglas M. ~ “The concern displayed by the call agent was awesome. The response was fast by the service provider and was terrific. Thanks so very much for this fantastic coverage!” 

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 

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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🔥🔥🔥”

The Joy of Spontaneous RVing without Reservations

14 Tuesday Aug 2018

Posted by in RV Information, Tips & Tricks

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RVing without reservationsWhen was the last time you went RVing without reservations? Many people feel uncomfortable not knowing where they will park their home for the night, but if you can handle a bit of uncertainty, the rewards can bring out the best the RVing lifestyle has to offer: comfort, spontaneity and adventure. Think you’re ready for the excitement? Here’s how to build it into your next trip.

First, Stop Over Planning

In a world where everything is Googled to exhaustion, many RVers think they need to know everything about how their trip will unfold. From the fuel stops to the rest areas to the RV park accommodations, people often think they’re playing it safe by charting out out every mile. Unfortunately, the old observation that “things don’t always go as planned” can hit close to home on RV trips. Tires go flat. Campgrounds fill up. Roads get closed. And horror of all horrors, the internet can sometimes disappear too!

Nobody wants to endure any of these headaches and the good news is that it’s totally possible to prepare for unplanned trip irritations while still having a great time RVing without reservations. You can start by getting your RVing protections in place, like establishing a Coach-Net roadside assistance plan.RV without Reservations _2

Next, it’s time to consider a general area where you want to go RVing. Pick the destination you want to explore, then stash a Plan B in your back pocket too. This is especially critical when you go RVing to popular areas like national parks.

On your day of departure, be sure to arrive at your first preferred camping spot early enough in the day to check it out. Give yourself enough leeway so that if that first stop doesn’t work out, you can move on to your backup destination with plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the afternoon.

“At it’s core, adventure is the willingness to commit to an uncertain outcome with an open heart and an open mind.” – Author: Matt Walker

Keep an Open Mind

Nobody’s RV trip ever happens as perfectly as one hopes. And in our time-crunched world of shorter vacations and 24/7 connectivity, a getaway gone awry inevitably leads to bickering and disappointment. You can avoid these classic family RV vacation disasters by keeping an accepting, open mind about everything from the location of your campsite to the roads on which you travel. An open mind costs nothing to acquire, takes up zero room in the RV, and can be your best ally when things don’t go as planned. Practice remaining broad-minded and open to change, eventually RVing without reservations just might become your preferred way to travel.

And above all else, remember what a wise camper once said: A bad day of RVing is better than any good day at the office.RV without Reservations _1

About the Author:

Rene Agredano, a Coach-Net member since 2015, is a self-employed full-time RVer who enjoys writing, jewelry design and animal advocacy. Her adventures with a three-legged dog and husband Jim are chronicled at LiveWorkDream.com

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Frederick H. ~ “Called on Saturday and received a call back immediately. Leonard guided me through troubleshooting and forwarded pictures of different circuit breakers. He followed up with two phone calls to insure the problem was corrected.”

The 3 Best States for Summer RVing

21 Thursday Jun 2018

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Summer RVingSummer is here, and I can almost smell the campfires being lit under the starlit sky. For many RVers, this will mean lots and lots of travel. After all, summer is when the kids are out of school, the weather is free of ice and snow, and nearly all campgrounds are opened.

However, not everyone can travel often, and that means carefully picking and choosing where you go. For many, one major deciding factor is weather. Summers down south can get extremely heavy and humid. Meanwhile, desert summers are unbearably dry and hot. Because RVs aren’t the most insulated dwellings, and because most campers prefer to spend tons of time outdoors, this summer heat can be a real annoyance.

For this reason, its best to choose locations with more mild temperatures that still offer plenty of sunshine. Luckily, there are a few places here in the US that offer just those things and more!

So where are these magical locations with perfect, RV-friendly summer weather and a myriad of other amazing benefits? Try the states below. We are confident you’ll be happy with your experience.

Washington

While this beautiful state is rainy for most of the year, Washington is absolutely beautiful during the summer months. This is especially true during July and August when the sun is shining, everything is a brilliant green, and the place couldn’t be more perfect for hiking.

While in Washington, be sure to visit Seattle to take in the sights and sounds and try some amazing coffee shops. You’ll also want to make time for the Mount Rainier and Olympic National Parks. An “America the Beautiful” reciprocal pass is helpful for this!

Ranier National Park

Ranier National Park

Maine

Even if all you see in Maine is Acadia National Park, it’ll be worth your time. However, you should definitely make time to do more than that!

I highly recommend taking a whale watching boat tour. We also really enjoyed the beaches in Maine and found that they had tons of crabs, snails, and other ocean life for us to investigate. Lastly, you may want to seek out at least one lighthouse during your visit.

Bass Harbor Lighthouse

Bass Harbor Lighthouse

Alaska

For the more adventurous among us, there is always Alaska. This is a huge state with tons of amazing sights to see, but can also be a bit challenging sometimes since campgrounds are hard to come by and cell signal is nonexistent in some places. Still, many say this state is worth a bit more hassle for the amazing views alone.

If you do make the trek up there, a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park should definitely make your list of things to do, as should a visit to Glacier National Park. Anchorage Museum is super cool, and there are more wildlife and nature tours than I can even begin to list.

Alaskan Highway

Alaskan Highway

All three of these states offer beautiful weather and plenty of things to see and do. Wherever you decide to go, be sure to have a blast and bring back plenty of memories when you decide to head home.

About the Author:

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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Terry and Bonnie T. ~ Thank you so much for all of your help purchasing new tires.  We got the new tires on Friday and drove home as “happy campers”. 

Overlooked Summer Vacation Spots on the U.S. West Coast

08 Tuesday May 2018

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Summer vacation spots on U.S. West CoastWhen many people think of summer vacations on the West Coast of the United States, they think of packed beaches and sprawling metropolises. Not your cup of tea? No problem. There are several sources of summer fun to be found on the West Coast — especially for those vacationing in their RVs.

Nestled along the coast or just a few miles inland, there are some incredible and accessible places that don’t see masses of tourists every summer. And these vacation spots include something that every vacationer dreams of: stunning natural wonders, delicious food and drink, and unique city centers.

Space, freedom, wonder — everything a holiday-maker might want out of an RV trip. So that you can make plans to hit the road as soon as possible, we’ve found four U.S. West Coast locations that are not to be overlooked this summer.

Hood River, Oregon

Whether you seek an adrenaline rush, an exceptional history lesson, or an eclectic food and drink scene, Hood River has something for you. We recommend staying where a view of majestic Mt. Hood greets you each morning.

Hood River, Oregon

Frog Lake with view of Mt. Hood

San Luis Obispo, California

If the gorgeous natural scenery doesn’t do it for you in San Luis Obispo, we have a feeling the architecture will. This charming city also has a world-renowned wine scene, and is host to one of the largest farmers markets in the United States. If time permits, we recommend heading to the Arroyo Grande Valley for a nice and calm horseback ride.

San Luis Obispo, CA

San Luis Obispo, CA

Leavenworth, Washington

Surrounded by forests, beautiful mountain views and tasty Bavarian food, Leavenworth is a gem in the center of Washington State. If you’re not into the unique charm of the city, rest assured, there’s plenty of outdoor recreation nearby.

Leavenworth, Washington

Icicle River near Leavenworth, WA

Port Townsend, Washington

Lighthouses. Sailboat building. Whale watching. If an authentic maritime experience is what you seek, Port Townsend is the answer. Top of the line museums operate here and deliver the area’s rich history to visitors. Also, scenic Olympic National Park is just a short drive away.

Port Townsend, CA

Port Wilson Lighthouse in Port Townsend, CA

Whether you have the opportunity to have some summer fun in all four of these unique places, or you only have 24 hours to spend in one of them, we’re confident you’ll find the great vacation you’re looking.

Enjoy the summer, and safe travels!

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Greg H. ~ “Friendly, professional, prompt, trustworthy and reliable. Higher levels of performance than AAA or Good Sam. Best road service I’ve had in 63 years of travel.”

 

The Great River Road

19 Thursday Apr 2018

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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The Great River RoadThe Midwest doesn’t get a whole lot of love from many of the travel guides out there, so we wanted to point Coach-Net members towards a do-not-miss road trip route in our first guest blog. The Great River Road stretches the length of the Mississippi River, from Minneapolis to New Orleans. It’s full of beauty, wildlife, good food, and charm. You could do the whole route, which is quite a bit of travel. As the road actually goes up both sides of the sometimes-mile-wide river, some even make it a loop trip. If you don’t have time to do the whole thing, just pick a place and jump on! We highly recommend the northern half, from St. Louis up for the most interesting destinations. Because the Mississippi has several dams, you can find great Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds all along the route.

The following are some things to do at some of our favorite stops along that portion of the trip:

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis is a wonderful place to visit, especially for all the free stuff to do. Of course there’s the Arch and the nearby Old Courthouse where the historic Dred Scott case was tried. The whole area has been under massive construction for years, which is due to finish this summer as it is re-christened Gateway Arch National Park. The St. Louis Science Center and St. Louis Zoo are both free and excellent, but for a more adventurous experience, check out the City Museum, which has been named the #1 family attraction in the world. The 600,000 square-foot former shoe factory is like a combination of a funhouse, a playground, and an art installation.

St. Louis's Old Courthouse

Photo: St Louis’s Old Courthouse, part of the Gateway Arch National Park

Outside of downtown a bit is our favorite St. Louis destination, Grant’s Farm. This 281-acre ancestral home of the Busch family (of Anheuser-Busch fame) is named for President Ulysses S. Grant who originally worked a portion of the land. When you arrive at this free attraction ($13 parking fee), you hop aboard a tram that takes you on a journey through a preserve where animals such as bison, antelope, and zebras roam free. The tram drops you off in a bavarian-style courtyard, where you can see a historic collection of carriages and other small zoo exhibits. The best part – some of the famous Anheuser-Busch Clydesdales call this their home, along with the beer carriage they pull in the commercials. We like to camp at Pere Marquette State Park, just across the river in Illinois. When in downtown, you can park RVs for a fee at the big lot near Busch Stadium.

Hannibal, Missouri

About 100 miles north of St. Louis is the boyhood home of Mark Twain, and the setting for The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The downtown riverfront area is simply charming, with soda fountains, restaurants, craft shops, galleries and more to visit.

Quad Cities(Iowa and Illinois)

On the border of Iowa and Illinois sits a metropolitan area composed of four (some say five) towns that all offer something different. The first railroad bridge built across the Mississippi River connected Davenport and Rock Island in 1856. Just weeks after its completion a steamboat purposefully crashed into it in protest (railroads were seen as a threat). The Rock Island Railroad Company selected a young Abraham Lincoln as their lawyer and won after he took the case to the US Supreme Court. You can still cross the 1896 incarnation of that bridge as part of the Rock Island Arsenal, an operating military base and historic Civil War prison site. For some other great things to do in the Quad Cities area, check out our “top ten” blog post on the area. Do not miss Quad Cities-style pizza at restaurants like Harris Pizza. The chewy malt-flavored crust is unbeatable.

Dubuque, Iowa

In Dubuque – a quintessential river town – you must visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. This expansive complex is perhaps the best museum focused on a specific topic that we have ever been to. The main building has some history of the river, fish tanks, and a water play area for kids, but the best part is a free stingray petting experience. We’ve seen these at other zoos and aquariums, but it’s usually an additional charge. It’s easy to think that it’s over after the main building, but outside lies a massive campus that includes a small boat crafting shop, a history of riverboats, some Mark Twain artifacts, and two large real riverboats for exploration. Stay at the Grant River Army Corps of Engineers campground across the river in Potosi, Wisconsin. It’s a renowned fishing destination, and the sunsets are stellar.

William M. Black Riverboat

Photo: The William M. Black Riverboat at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium

Effigy Mounds

As you head north from Dubuque, the landscape continues to get more and more beautiful. The bluffs that overlook it get bigger and bigger, but the road stays mostly flat, following the riverbed. Atop some of those bluffs in Harper’s Ferry, Iowa, is the Effigy Mounds National Monument. These Native American mounds, mostly in the shapes of animals, are so old that nobody remembers who built them or why. A 2.5 mile round-trip hike up a steep bluff to view the mounds ends at the Fire Point overlook where you behold the mile-wide Mississippi in all its glory. This is one of those views that just takes your breath away. From here on out, the landscape up the river will have you struggling to keep your eyes on the road.

Fire Point Overlook

Photo: The Fire Point Overlook at Effigy Mounds National Monument in Harper’s Ferry, Iowa

La Crosse, Wisconsin

Historic La Crosse is a fun college town to visit for a night or two. There are riverboat rides, beautiful parks, and some great food. You can also check out the world’s largest six-pack while you’re their, an homage to the town and the state’s history of beer craftsmanship. It’s Wisconsin, so dairy is on the menu. Fill yourself up on some cheese curds, available at nearly every restaurant, and take a walk along the beautiful riverfront.

Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota

Our journey ends in the major metropolis of the twin cities. Here, the river is protected by the National Park Service as the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. The visitor’s center is located in the lobby of the Science Museum of Minnesota, another great place to visit. Kayaking and canoe trips are a lot of fun on the river in this area, and we really enjoy the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, which takes you on a loop tour of the city, hitting some cool neighborhoods and architecture, some Mississippi sites, and one of our favorite places, the Minnehaha Falls. Of course, you can also visit the Mall of America for some good old-fashioned commercialism, complete with an entire amusement park indoors. We really enjoyed staying at the first-come-first-served Hoffman Park Campground in nearby River Falls, Wisconsin. It’s about the cheapest campground with electricity you’ll find nearby such a big city, but it fills up fast. Shhhh! Don’t give away the secret.

Minneapolis's Minnehaha Falls

Photo: Minneapolis’s Minnehaha Falls

From here, you could continue on to the headwaters of the Mississippi at Minnesota’s, Itasca State Park, where you can stand with your feet on either side of the river that will eventually become so wide you can lay two empire state buildings across it.

We hope you’ll take the time to journey up the Mississippi! There’s so much more to see and do than the few spots we listed here. You can pick up a Great River Road map at nearly any tourism flyer rack along the route, or you can download the Drive the Great River Road smartphone app. You can also check out our Great River Road episode of the RV Miles Podcast.

About the Authors

Jason Epperson and Abigail Trabue are the hosts of the RV Miles Podcast, as well as the America’s National Parks Podcast. You can find both shows on Apple Podcasts or any smartphone podcast app. You can follow their personal journey as they travel the country in a converted school bus at ourwanderingfamily.com.

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Edward W. ~ “They were very very helpful on the phone and the tow truck driver spent a lot of time setting up our motorhome to tow making sure everything was right.”

3 Amazing Beachside Camping Spots for RVers

06 Friday Apr 2018

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beachside RV camping spotsNothing beats the clean breezes and majestic views that come with camping on the beach, and RV owners are uniquely poised to enjoy beachside living like nobody else. With the luxury of your own kitchen and bedroom right at your fingertips, as well as the rugged beauty of the waterfront right at your doorstep, beachside camping is a must do activity for all RVers. While there are plenty of awesome spots to visit across the U.S., here are our top three picks to get you started planning your trip right away.

Ocean Mesa, California

Perched on a cliff over the raging Pacific Ocean in the middle of the Los Padres National Forest, yet just 20 minutes north of San Barbara (which means roadside assistance is just minutes away), this epic beachside RV park has it all. A fully heated outdoor pool and spa, convenience store, laundry facilities and both cable TV and internet hookups mean you will be living the high life in the middle of raw natural splendor. RV sites are private yet close to all the amenities, and many boast amazing views out over the sea. It’s the perfect place for taking in the sunset.ocean mesa

Emerald Beach, Florida

With its own private white sand beach on the shore of the calm crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Emerald Beach in Navarre, Florida, is an RVers paradise on earth. Full hookups plus free cable TV and Wi-Fi mean you won’t be not roughing it one bit, while kayak rentals and a 24-hour gym allow you to get as active as you want. Fishing on the onsite pier is a popular hobby, and a fenced-in dog park means even your beloved four-footed travel companion is going to have a great time.emerald beach

Fish Lake Beach, Illinois

All RV camping sites come with their own picnic bench and fire ring, as well as full-service hookups, at this popular waterfront resort right off Highway 120. From fishing and boating in the lake to chilling out in the hot tub or kiddie pool, Fish Lake Campground is made for family-friendly fun in the sun. The RV resort also hosts daily activities like volleyball tournaments and arts and crafts classes, as well as live entertainment at night, which means there is never a dull moment here. And to make sure your trip doesn’t get too exciting, roadside assistance is just a short distance away.fish lake

 

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~ Greg H. “Friendly, professional, prompt, trustworthy and reliable. Higher levels of performance than AAA or Good Sam. Best road service I’ve had in 63 years of travel.”