Tag Archives: RV Destinations

Rogue River RV Park in Shady Cove is Pure Pacific NW Bliss

05 Friday Aug 2016

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Rogue header
Oregon is a state filled with natural wonders and quirky attractions, and those aren’t just found in Portland, the weird, hipster capital of the state. The Rogue River and Siskiyou National Forest make for a great offbeat adventure filled with beautiful scenery and unforgettable experiences!

The Oregon Vortex/House of Mystery

Oregon is so strange that, in some places, the laws of gravity don’t even apply! The Oregon Vortex/House of Mystery is a place where physics and science are put to the test—your brain will be twisted as you experience strange phenomena that you never thought possible! Whether you buy their explanation that all of the weirdness is caused by a mysterious vortex is up to you, but it’s a fun stop regardless, and they have a fascinating gift shop!

The Wild and Scenic Rogue River

Rogue RiverOne of the original Congressionally designated “Wild and Scenic Rivers,” Oregon’s Wild and Scenic Rogue River offers a multitude of activities, from fishing to hiking to white-water rafting. Winding through dense forests, over rocky landscapes, and between mountains, the river provides a ruggedly stunning landscape that’s unique to this part of Oregon. Book a rafting or floating tour to really get the full experience!

If you’re looking to hike along the Rogue River to take in the views, you’ll find a really nice 1.25-mile trail in Valley of the Rogue State Park. It’s a great low-key way to experience this wild river if rafting isn’t really your speed. Plus, if you’re an angler, you’ll find some great fishing in this state park!

Rogue Valley Zip Line

Ziplining at Rogue RiverAppreciate the Rogue River from a different angle—by soaring above it on a zip-line! The course at Rogue Valley Zip Line features several zip-lines that offer different views of the mountains and forests of Oregon. Flying over the landscape gives you an adrenaline rush like nothing else! Try the “Zip/Dip/Sip” experience that combines zip-lining and white-water rafting, and ends the day at a local winery.

Rogue Creamery

Rogue CreameryThe best way to get a real taste for this unique part of Oregon is to head to the famed Rogue Creamery, a local cheesemaker. Their cheeses are predictably creative and delicious: lavender cheddar, smoky blue, and chocolate stout cheddar are just a few options. See how they make their cheeses, sample a few, and enjoy the most unique grilled cheese sandwich you’ve ever had!

Rogue River RV Park – Shady Cove, OR

Since there’s so much to do along the Rogue River, you’ll want to spend a few days exploring, so set up camp at the Rogue River RV Park. Besides being a great place to camp, and offering all of the amenities you might need, it provides access to a 1,000-foot stretch of the river, so you can dip your feet in it, or even try your hand at fly-fishing for steelheads and salmon.

Head off the beaten path to the country’s most wild and scenic river, where you can experience a trip unlike any other. I mean, where else can you defy physics, zip-line over a beautiful river, and eat a sandwich made with chocolate stout cheese? Only in Oregon!

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Six Must-See National Park Beaches

21 Thursday Jul 2016

Posted by in National Parks, The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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National Park BeachesIt’s summertime, and there’s almost no better place to be than the beach. The warmth of the sun upon your face, the sound of waves splashing against the shore, the blue water stretching into the horizon…Let’s go!

Among the most beautiful beaches you can visit are those in national parks. Thousands of miles of shoreline around lakes and along oceans are protected in our parks, and just like the wildlife and rock formations you’re apt to find in most of them, the beaches won’t disappoint either.

Here are six must-see beaches at our national parks that can be reached via an RV.

Ocean Path Trail

Acadia National Park

Cobble beaches and hard bedrock make up most of the shoreline for the Atlantic Ocean that surrounds the Maine park’s many islands. A rare exception is the 4.4-miles round trip Ocean Path Trail that heads from a sand beach to sea cliffs.Acadia National Park

Convoy Point

Biscayne National Park

This boardwalk trail is flat and easy, running along the Florida mangrove shore known as Convoy Point. You’ll follow the blue-green waters of Biscayne Bay and be able to spot some small, mangrove-covered islands. Bring a lunch; there’s a picnic area below palms overlooking the bay. Part of the boardwalk also takes you out over the water. As the bay is shallow and quite clear, you’ll have no trouble spotting the bottom.Biscayne National Park

Swiftcurrent Nature Trail

Glacier National Park

The first 0.6 miles of the trail at this Montana park heads through an evergreen forest with several short spur trails leading to beaches along Swiftcurrent Lake. Meltwater from Grinnell Glacier feeds the lake, making for a crystal clear albeit cold water.Glacier National Park

Leigh Lake Trail

Grand Teton National Park

Several alpine lakes perfect for a family outing sit at the Wyoming park’s central String Lake Area. The 1.8-mile round trip trail heads around a shimmering blue lake through green pines with gray Mount Moran soaring in the background. During summer, enjoy a picnic on the beach and then a swim in the cool waters.Grand Teton National Park

Ruby Beach Trail

Olympic National Park

The Washington park’s Pacific Ocean shoreline features gushing sea stacks, piles of driftwood logs, and colorful, wave-polished stones. To enjoy all three, take the 1.4-mile Ruby Beach Trail. Some of the driftwood here has floated in from the distant Columbia River.Olympic National Park

Coastal Trail

Redwood National Park

With more than 40 miles of pristine Pacific Ocean coastline, the northern California park is the perfect place to see tide pools and sea stacks. The latter is visible from many highway vistas but to get close up to a tide pool – a small body of saltwater that sustains many colorful sea creatures on the beach at low tide – explore the 1-mile segment (2-miles round trip) of the Coastal Trail at Enderts Beach south of Crescent City.Redwood National Park

About the author:

Rob Bignell is the author of several hiking books, including the bestselling “Best Sights to See at America’s National Parks.”

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Horse Thief Resort is the perfect Black Hills escape

08 Friday Jul 2016

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Badlands SDThe Badlands of South Dakota make for some epic road tripping. From iconic road trip stops like Mount Rushmore to the rugged beauty of the region’s many parks (including one seriously underrated National Park), there’s tons to see and do here. Set up camp at South Dakota’s Horse Thief Campground and Resort and get ready to explore!

Mount Rushmore and road trips pretty much go hand-in-hand— the American icon has been a stop-off for vacationing Mt Rushmorefamilies since it was completed in 1941. Located in South Dakota’s gorgeous Badlands, it’s prime road trip country… and if you’re traveling in an RV, you’ll probably need a place to pull off for the night.

Thankfully, the closest RV park to Mount Rushmore is the awesome Horse Thief Campground and Resort. Located in the Black Hills National Forest and only 12 short miles away from the imposing glory of Mount Rushmore, this campground is exceptional. Spacious sites that come with fire rings and picnic tables, a heated pool, laundry and squeaky-clean bath house facilities, and Wi-Fi access take this site above and beyond most RV camping spots.

Then there’s the location. It’s bordered by the lovely Custer State Park, which features 71,000 acres of pure Black Hills beauty. Search for bison, burros, and prairie dogs, hike Harney Peak and take in the view, or just cruise one of the park’s scenic drives and appreciate its wild beauty.

One of America’s most underrated National Parks is right nearby as well: Wind Cave National Park. The massive underground complex features tons of different tour options, ranging from short and sweet to strenuous candlelight adventures that should appeal to anyone and everyone. Crazy horse Mountain MemorialIt’s the densest cave system in the world, with the most explorable passages per cubic mile, and features all kinds of stone and ice formations!

And if you still have time before heading back to Horsethief Lake, stop by the monumental Crazy Horse Mountain Memorial. This controversial carving will be the world’s largest statue…if it’s ever completed. Meant to be even more massive than the heads of Mount Rushmore, it’s been in the works since 1939… and they’re far from complete, although you can still check out the masterpiece-in-progress.

And once you’ve gotten a taste of all the roadside awesomeness offered by the Badlands, head back to camp and cozy up by the campfire— the perfect way to end a day of adventure.

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Six Romantic National Park Getaways

17 Wednesday Feb 2016

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Romantic National Park tripsWhat are the most romantic places in the world? Paris? Hawaii? Italy?

If traveling through the continental United States, try a national park.

Though national parks often are thought of as places to get back to nature, they’re also great spots to get a little closer to your sweetie. Among the romantic possibilities are moonbows, romantic vistas, desert oasis and incredible sunrises, just to name a few.

Moonbow over waterfalls

At night during a full moon, moonbows often can be seen over waterfalls as the silvery light from the nearest heavenly body refracts off the mist. Plan a spring or early summer visit to Yosemite National Park when the moon is full. On a clear night, moonlit rainbows – called moonbows – span 2425-foot high Yosemite Fall with a trail leading right to its base.

Breathtaking vistas

Old Rag MountainFor many, vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains rank among the nation’s most beautiful natural scenery. The 4-mile hike up to the summit of Old Rag Mountain via the Ridge Trail at Shenandoah National Park is challenging, but the 360 degree view from the top is unparalleled, as nearly 200,000 acres of wilderness stretch below you. Twirl your beloved around in a dance so that the entire scene spins before her eyes.

Desert oasis

What is more romantic than midnight at the oasis? Joshua Tree National Park has a few, with the 49 Palms Oasis among the easiest to reach. The 49 Palms Oasis Trail heads 1.5-miles to stands of fan palms and water pools. Bring a blanket to lay out on the sand and a picnic basket for an evening snack under the stars.

Stargazing

Bryce Canyon

Boasting among the darkest skies in continental America, you can see up to 7,500 stars with the naked eye – nearly four times more than is typical in a rural area – at Bryce Canyon National Park. The Piracy Point Trail, a half-mile round trip from Far View Point, leads to a picnic area overlooking a cliff perfect for stargazing. Study up on the names of a few stars in the night sky and point them out to your sweetheart.

Fruit picking

The Park Service at Capitol Reef National Park maintains more than 3,100 trees – including cherry, apricot, peach, pear and apple – in orchards planted decades ago by Mormon pioneers. For a small fee, park visitors can pick the fruit when in season. While there’s no designated trail, the Historic Fruita Orchards Walk takes you through the fruit trees near Utah Hwy. 24. Share with your beloved what you’ve picked at your next rest stop.

Sunrise to propose by

Acadia National ParkAmong the first places in America to see the sunrise is the top of Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park.  As the sun ascends over the Atlantic Ocean below the summit, it colors the waters in an incredible light show. Bring a breakfast picnic, and as the new day begins, propose marriage (or “renew” your vows), for the sunrise symbolizes the dawning of your life together. Since you can drive to the summit, after she says “Yes,” together hike one of the trails along the mountain top (Either the South Ridge Trail or the Gorge Path are beautiful.).

Rob Bignell is the author of several hiking guidebooks, including the bestselling “Best Sights to See at America’s National Parks.”

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2016 RV Destinations

20 Wednesday Jan 2016

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2016 RV Destinations

Tony Bennett left his heart in San Francisco and as RVers we also get to fall in love with America’s best cities, parks and off-beat attractions. Now that fuel prices are less scary and the economy is doing better, this is shaping up to be a great year for RVing. No matter where you love to roam, the U.S. has many terrific destinations big and small, like those on my own personal list of the top three RV destinations for 2016:

First stop: Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big BendThe National Park Service is turning 100 this year and there’s no better way to celebrate this milestone than trekking to Big Bend National Park, one of the most magnificent landscapes in the west. This park’s extreme remoteness and rugged terrain make it a jaw-dropping American treasure that you won’t soon forget. If you
love stargazing into pitch black night skies, hiking challenging desert trails and immersing yourself in the culture of the American west, put Big Bend on your 2016 bucket list.

Keep in mind that Big Bend National Park isn’t the kind of place you visit on a whim: it’s located five hours from any major city and requires thorough, advanced planning. For instance, nearly all of Big Bend’s RV-friendly campsites are non-reservable dry camping spots that go fast during peak times like spring break so it’s best to visit during quieter times. You’ll also want to make sure your RV is mechanically sound and stocked with provisions before heading out, since modern conveniences like cell service and grocery stores are hard to come by in these far-flung borderlands.

Next up: Cooling off in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains

When you think of Colorado you probably envision the Rocky Mountain peaks that embrace Denver’s skyline, but there’s another section of the Rockies that you might find even more spectacular: the San Juan Mountain Range in the southwest corner of the state, near Durango. The sharp peaks and deep valleys embedded into the steep volcanic mountain range are the starting point for much of Colorado’s best four- wheeling, fishing and backpacking.

San Juan

Telluride and Durango are two of the San Juan’s most well-known destinations but I prefer the terrain surrounding the former mining meccas of Lake City, Ouray and Silverton. The three historic communities retain a rustic, pioneering feel that more upscale San Juan communities lack. They’re especially fun to visit since the towns are connected by the Alpine Loop, an epic 65-mile four-wheel drive trail that shows you the “real Colorado” as you traverse through terrain as high as 12,000-feet above sea level along a stunning moonscape of alpine tundra and crystal clear skies.

Great base camp RV parks in the area include:

Last Stop: Falling for Vermont

As native Californians, my husband and I prefer the more remote spaces of the west but there’s one eastern state we’ll gladly visit, especially now that fuel is more affordable. That state is Vermont, home to the progressive college town of Burlington, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and one of the funniest characters I’ve ever met on the road, the one and only Roy Egg. This eccentric and lovable Americana artist paints portraits of noble chickens and pastoral farm scenes on eggs, one of which was selected for an exhibit at the White House. His gallery is open on weekends and I guarantee you’ll have a ball if you make the trek.

VermontYour Vermont stay is even better if you check into Burlington’s North Beach Campground, a pretty public campground on the shores of Lake Champlain. After Burlington head south to watch the leaves turn in the southern Vermont town of Manhattan. There’s a lovely family-owned riverfront RV park called “Camping on the Battenkill” with fantastic leaf peeping opportunities. But don’t stay too long, since winter will be just around the corner.

You never know where you’ll leave your heart in this great big country, but as an RVer at least you always have the option of returning for more fun in places you love most. I hope you won’t let this year go by without packing up your RV and hitting the road at least a few times, if not for good like I did!

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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Hitting the Road with Rover: RVs and Dog Shows

28 Friday Nov 2014

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Hitting-the-Road-with-RoverIn 1960, John Steinbeck converted his truck into a personalized camper. He then named it Rocinante and launched on one of America’s great recorded journeys of a man and his dog. Charley was a 10-year-old French Poodle, and was the partner in many of Steinbeck’s mental conversations during the trip. Millions of readers have lapped up his “Travels with Charley,” and many of those have set out to replicate his adventure.

Rocinante

No Longer an Oddity

While Steinbeck was one of the first to venture forth with his canine buddy in an RV, dogs and RVs are now a common sight across the country. Traveling in an RV provides the flexibility not typically enjoyed through other means of transportation like flying directly to a destination or driving the family car and staying in hotels along the way. After all, in an RV, you can bring just about anything you want – and that includes your dog!  Many RVers have even started taking their RVs and their dogs to dog shows, not only to spectate, but also to compete.  Many dog shows are located at fairgrounds which also include campsites.  This combination makes dog shows the perfect RV travel destination.

Championship Shows

Westminster_Dog_ShowDog shows can be found in just about any state at any time of the year.  We have picked a few occurring over the next couple of months that might pique your interest:

  • Imperial Valley Kennel Club. A leisurely drive to the west will place you in Yuma, AZ on December 1, 2014 for the Imperial Valley Kennel Club show. This is part of the AKC’s National Owner-Handled Series. This is a great place to be while the snows begin in the northeast.
  • Shoreline Dog Fanciers Association of Orange County. You can continue your time in the sun by heading to the Orange County Fairgrounds for the show scheduled December 06, 2014.
  • Malibu Kennel Club. Just a couple of days later you can catch another popular show, also at the Orange County Fairgrounds.
  • Western Reserve Kennel Club.  Set in Cleveland, OH, on December 14, 2014.  All AKC-Recognized Breeds will be shown.
  • Westminster Kennel Club. This granddaddy of American shows is held at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The first Westminster show was held in 1877. For 2015, the show is scheduled for February 16 and 17.  Live streaming of all breed judging will be available on westminsterkennelclub.org and on the official 2015 Westminster Show App.

We would love to hear about your adventures, so check back with us and feel free to share in the comments section below.

Eating Local on your RV Travels

07 Friday Nov 2014

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Eating-Local-headerThere are so many reasons to love the RV lifestyle. You never have to wonder who used the bed or the shower yesterday, you seldom have to subscribe to anything but a self-imposed deadline, and there’s value for the money. RVIA reports found that “RV travel is 23-to-59 percent less expensive than other types of vacations, for a family of four that owns an RV.  For an “empty-nester” couple traveling by RV, savings were 11-to-46 percent.”

That leaves some extra for little treats along the way.  One superb way to derive extra benefits from your travels is to dine at local, one-off eateries.

PLANNING AHEAD

visitor centerThe visitor centers at most state lines can be a treasure trove.  Several racks of brochures and information cards focus on more than theme parks and museums. Small cities and towns often make their own material available, and it’s a great way to learn about local establishments you’d otherwise miss.

Talk, talk, talk to your fellow RVers. You’re moving across the U.S. and Canada as part of a large, social, and friendly community. Everyone has a favorite place to visit, and typically you’ll find few who are hesitant to share that surprise they unearthed, somewhere out there on the road.

If you have a route in mind for your next excursion, and have the time, send out some emails to Chambers of Commerce along the way. CoC personnel are very dedicated to attracting tourism to their towns and will have firsthand knowledge as to the best places to visit and will probably give you advice as to what to order.  You really do only have to ask.

map restaurantTHE INTERNET IS ON YOUR SIDE

Call up Google Maps, focus in on the area you’re passing through, then type in keywords such as “restaurants” or “farmers markets,” You’ll see small, circular knife-and-fork icons pop up; hover your cursor over them, and you’ll learn more details about the location, sometimes including customers’ reviews.

SUPPORT THE SOURCE

Keeping your kitchen well-Farmers Marketstocked is important.  Another way to connect with the local culture is to support the community farmer’s market. Supporting local farmer’s markets has many benefits. Farmers often have good recommendations on ways to prepare their products and you may even get to sample a fruit or vegetable you have never tried before.

For those interested in eating local, RV travel really can be the best way to discover what America’s all about; true-blue, unique and wonderfully original flavors and experiences, served up by mom n’ pop diners and restaurants you’ll seldom find on the side of an interstate. Bon Appétit!

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Fall Festivals in North America

12 Friday Sep 2014

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headerLooking for a wonderful fall festival to visit on your travels this year?  There are a number of festivals that are just a road trip away this autumn.  Take a trip and enjoy the leaves turning, the delicious pumpkin pies, and the interesting crafts!

Harvest On The Harbor

 

 

 

 

Maine in October

According to the Travel Channel, a trip to Maine should be first on your list.  October brings the Harvest on the Harbor Festival.  This festival takes place in Portland, Maine, from October 22nd through October 25th.  Famous Maine chefs are on tap, preparing some of the region’s best dishes, there are beer samplings, barbecues and a marketplace. This is the best time of year to see Maine’s gorgeous foliage, too.

Columbus Ohio Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest in Ohio

In Columbus, enjoy Oktoberfest!  Rain or shine, this festival takes place in a 100,000-square-foot pavilion so it is completely covered.  Enjoy beer, authentic German food, live music and dancing! The festival highlights much more than beer, so even if you do not imbibe, they have much you may enjoy.  There are crafts in the marketplace (or Marktplatz), a parade, delicious foods and of course, live entertainment!  Contrary to popular belief, Oktoberfest does not take place in October. Mark your calendars, and head to Columbus September 26th through September 28th.

Apple Festival

 

Pennsylvania’s Apple Festival

Travel and Leisure says that the National Apple Harvest Festival in Arendtsville, Pennsylvania is the place for families.  They have been celebrating with the apple festival for over 44 years.  The event is held during October, on two weekends.  They highlight apples in a number of different ways, from apple jellies to apple sauces and candied apples.  There is even an apple-bobbing contest!  There are antique and classic cars on display, more than 300 vendors, musical acts, pie baking contests and an auction. The festival is also home to a tractor square dance, in which tractors ride in a formation like couples on a dance floor.

Circleville Pumpkin Show

Pumpkins in Ohio

Love the pumpkin?  The Circleville Pumpkin Show takes place in Circleville, Ohio during October (October 17th through the 22nd).

The pumpkin fest is a big deal in Circleville. In fact, kids get the days off from school to attend. There are pie eating contests, live music, stained glass demonstrations, craft tents, fashion shows and more.

Cranberry Festival - Cranfest

 

 

 

 

 

Warrens Cranberry Festival

Finally, those who enjoy cranberries will want to head to Wisconsin the last full weekend of September (this year it is the 26th – 28th).  Every September, tens of thousands of people visit for the annual Warren Cranberry Festival or Cranfest.  Warren is the leading producer of cranberries in the US, and they celebrate this fact with a huge parade, tours of the cranberry marshes, the crowning of cranberry royalty,  plenty of unique items for sale at the 800 arts and crafts booths, and more than 100 food booths!

Okanagan Wine Festive

Canadian Wine Festival

One of the biggest wine producing regions in Canada is the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia.  For 10 days in early October you can enjoy the scenic settings amongst the lakes and mountains and celebrate the fall grape harvest.

 

Celtic Colours International Festival

Canadian Fall Colours

Celtic Colours boasts that it is the largest festival of its kind in North America. Cape Breton Island hosts the celebration of the Celtic culture for nine days every October. 2014 events are schedule from October 10th -18th and offers a wide range of events like concerts, dances, workshops, and community suppers. Enjoy the beautiful fall backdrop and the 18th anniversary of this festival that celebrates the rich island culture.

No matter where you plan to take a road trip this fall, you are more than likely to be near a wonderful fall festival. Plan your trip now!