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Waste Water Tanks-Proper Maintenance And Storage

09 Thursday Sep 2021

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Most RVers take their waste water tanks for granted, dump some chemical down the black water tanks and dump them when they get full.  Although there isn’t a lot of maintenance required, there are things you need to know to keep the sensors reading correctly and some tips to reduce the awful smell that can sometimes be associated with them.

First a little bit about them. Most of the black and gray water tanks are made of rotocast plastic to produce a stronger seamless design.  The black water tank is intended for mainly toilet water and the gray water tank for shower water.  When it comes to waste water from the sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms, it all depends on the layout of the sinks and which tank is closer to drain to.  This sometimes causes a problem when a kitchen sink is dumped into a small black water tank as it fills up faster and needs to be dumped more often.

Since the black water tank holds sewage, it needs a treatment or chemical to start the breakdown process and reduce smells.

It is important to use a treatment that has enzymes and utilizes an aerobic digestion process.  Chemicals like bleach, pine scented cleaners and other household products do not start the digestion process and create anaerobic digestion and gassing which could contain methane and other harmful gasses.  Also make sure the treatment product you use is formaldehyde and bonopol free.  There are several brands on the market such as the Thetford line that comes in either liquid or dissolving pouch. 

Another important product is to use an RV recommended toilet paper that will dissolve fast in liquid otherwise the paper will cling to the side of the tank and could cause false readings of the level sensors.  Check out the RV Repair Club Members video we did here: Selecting The Best Toilet Paper For Your RVs Waste System

By using the correct treatment and paper, the digestion and decomposition starts and will not only make for an easier to clean tank, but is also environmentally friendly and recommended by sanitary sewer treatment plants.

The gray water tank does not need a chemical or treatment every time since it’s mostly cleaner shower and sink water with maybe some soap or cooking grease.  However it can also get stale and create a smell that should be treated or cleaned periodically.  You can use normal household bleach with a 1 cup bleach to 20 gallon water solution and let it slosh around some or one of the products designed by OEM suppliers.  The Chlorine in bleach can cause damage to rubber seals if left in the tank and dump valves for extended periods of time so it’s best to rinse them out immediately if you use bleach.

Proper Dumping

This may seem trivial, however it is important to let the black and gray water tank get over ½ full before dumping and you should never leave the valves open when at a campground that has  a dump station at your site.  Leaving the valve closed not only keeps the smells from the underground sewage system out of your rig, but it also allows the tank to accumulate liquid that helps dissolve solids and allows the treatment to work.  If the valve is left open for the black water tank we get a situation called “Pyramiding” that eventually turns hard and that’s a far as I need to go with that!  In the gray water tank, we need the soaps and grease to continue to dissolve with the liquid and leave when dumped otherwise it can coat the side of the tank and cause improper monitor panel readings from the probes.

 When it’s time to dump, dump the black water tank first and let it drain until there is no sound of effluent running.  It’s a good idea to get a dump hose that has either a clear or translucent elbow to see if there is flow.

Once the tank seems drained, fill the black water tank at least 2/3 full with clean water.  The best way to do this is by hooking up a hose to a black water flush valve that will spray pressurized water around the tank and clean off the sides as well as the probes.  If you do not have a black water flush valve, you can hook a hose up to a flush wand and stick it down the toilet.  Make sure the hose is only used for this procedure.  Flush the black water tank several times until the liquid coming through the clear valve is clean.  You will be surprised how many times this takes!  After that, dump the gray water tank.

Maintenance

As stated earlier, there isn’t much maintenance required if you use the right chemicals and dump properly.  However since the dump valves are a push and pull type with rubber seals, it’s a good idea to dump some valve seal conditioner down the tanks to keep them lubricated and protect against chemicals that can deteriorate the seal. 

Valterra is the main supplier of dump valves and they recommend using a silicone lubricant spray on the posts of the handles but not WD40 as it will disperse the lubricant in the valve.  If you have a cable valve, the handle is on one side of the vehicle and the valve on the other.  Check to make sure the cable is tight and operating freely. 

The biggest issue with waste water tanks is typically inaccurate monitor panel level readings. Most manufacturers use probes that go through the tank with an energized probe at the lower level on one side and three probes up the side across from it.  As the liquid rises, it arcs across to create a closed circuit which allows the current to pass through and goes to the monitor panel.

Effluent, toilet paper, and even hard water deposits such as calcium and lime can coat the side of the tank and make the same closed circuit which means an inaccurate level reading.  As described above, using the correct toilet paper and pretreatment can help.  However if you are experiencing an inaccurate reading it would be a good idea to super clean the tank with Thetford’s Tank Blaster product which has been quite a success.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles, authored an RV handbook reference guide and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

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RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

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Coach-Net Camping: The Gregory’s Head To Disney

09 Thursday Sep 2021

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Where’s the best place to celebrate the 4th of July? According to our Vice President of Sales, Kim Gregory, it’s in your RV camping at The Most Magical Place on Earth. This summer Kim and her husband Jake loaded up their 5 kids, along with the family dog Willie, and hit the road for a 9 day road trip from Dallas to Orlando.

The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort was home for Kim’s family for 5 incredible nights and they loved every second of it. The triplets especially enjoyed riding around in the golf-cart catching a cool breeze as they toured around the resort. Kim and her family spent their first day setting up their temporary home, enjoying the amazing amenities at Fort Wilderness Resort, playing corn-hole, and of course grilling some amazing food. The next day they began their assault on the parks beginning with Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Everyone had a great time seeing all the wild animals on Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safaris. I think the only thing the kids enjoyed more that day were the snacks. But who can blame them? Snacks are life.

The second day The Gregory Crew traveled the world at Epcot followed by a wild and wet third day at Blizzard Beach. Disney World is a truly magical place, but Florida was scorching hot so they were all relieved to spend an entire day cooling down at the water park. The triplets gave it 5 stars. They loved the cool water slides, the wave pool, and the yummy ice cream. Kim and her family saved the best for last by spending their final day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. And they made sure to not miss a thing. Everyone loved the rush of Big Thunder Mountain, they were dizzy with joy spinning around in giant teacups at the Mad Tea Party, and they all squealed with delight as they plummeted down Splash Mountain.

Every day after spending all morning at the parks Kim and her family were able to spend their afternoons relaxing at the pet-friendly campsite and cooling off in the resort pool. It was the perfect way to recover from the crowds and spend quality time together. They played games, cooked dinner together, and of course chowed down on warm, gooey smores.

All 7 (plus Willie) lived in the Entegra for 9 days. They traveled through 5 states – Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. They spent 4 and ½ days driving for a total of 35 hours and over 2,500 miles. All to spend 5 nights camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and 4 days at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Blizzard Beach. And that all added up to countless memories that their family will cherish for years. Disney World is known as The Most Magical Place On Earth, but being able to camp in their RV definitely made it even more magical for The Gregorys.

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Joshua M. ~ “Tori helped me out every step of the way. I couldn’t be more pleased. My experience was extremely professional and safe. I would highly recommend using 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.”

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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!”

Coach-Net Camping: Haley In Caprock Canyon

04 Wednesday Aug 2021

Posted by in We Love It. We Live It.

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Haley is back at it and hitting the road again! If you’re up to date on our blogs or follow us on social, you know that Haley is our fun-loving, funny & spunky office manager here at Coach-Net who LOVES to camp. This time around she makes her way out to Caprock Canyon State Park, where she saw some big Texas sunsets and said “hello” to some Texas-sized buffalo.

My fiancé and I headed out west to Caprock Canyon State Park in Quitaque, TX. One of my closest friends was getting married in Lubbock and it’s only an hour away so we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to go camping. We’ll almost always choose camping over staying in a hotel.

We got there just when the sun was setting over the canyon. It was absolutely gorgeous! The west Texas sky is so big and there were buffalo roaming around. It was like a dream. That was just the park entrance. We found our site and set up camp. Setting up went pretty smoothly despite the plague sized grasshoppers jumping on the jacks and directly into our faces. Once we were settled, we went for a little drive. We took in the beautiful sky and stars. The town of Quitaque has just a little over 400 people so, everything was very quiet and peaceful.

The next day we woke up around 6 to see the sunrise. We made coffee and breakfast over a campfire and started our day.

We drove through the canyon and went hiking and swimming. I know I’ve mentioned this in the past but, I really love terracotta. I kept stopping on the trail to look at the dirt and rocks. It was all so beautiful. We read about how everything used to be under water. We found gypsum, terracotta, flint, obsidian, and so many seashells.

This was my first time to take the RV on a long trip. I was nervous at first but, it was actually a lot easier out west. The roads are long and there aren’t many people. Even in DFW I was pretty comfortable on the road. I’ve learned to stop worrying about taking wider turns and going a little slower than everyone else. Most people in Texas are pretty cool about trailers though. Especially when you get out of the city.

We’re already talking about going back to Caprock Canyon in October. Our next trip will be to New Orleans for OUR HONEYMOON! We can’t wait to see good live music and eat so much food! We will stop in San Antonio on the way. We aren’t taking the RV but, we will be staying in some historic homes.

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Jay K. ~ “Very happy with our experience with Coach-Net and the follow up on what could have been a real nightmare 400 miles from home at the start of a 2 1/2 Week family vacation. Coach-Net’s team really made the very stressful process of an “on the road repair” seem safe, competent, and easy and saved our family vacation.”

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!”

Tips for Finding and Using FREE Campgrounds With Hookups

21 Wednesday Jul 2021

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Last year, during our travels through the middle of the country, we discovered an amazing thing: free campgrounds. And not just your typical dry camping sites in a government owned park, either—I’m talking about campgrounds with water and electric hookups and often even a dump station onsite! This was a game changer.

You see, we’ve done a bit of boondocking here and there, and we have plenty more boondocking stops planned for the next couple of weeks. That said, it isn’t our favorite way of exploring. We normally use Thousand Trails campgrounds to keep costs low, but when we’re not near these campgrounds, we need other options that don’t cost an arm and a leg. These free campgrounds with hookups fill that role perfectly.

In this article we will talk about how to find free (and incredibly low-cost) camping with hookups, and then give you some tips for using these campsites.

What to Expect from Free and Low-Cost Campgrounds with Hookups

Generally, free campgrounds with hookups are located in city parks, but some can be found at casinos, county parks, and other locations. The rules vary from one park to the next, but many ask for a donation in exchange for your stay, and all the places we’ve visited limit your stay to a certain number of days. These seem like reasonable requests, considering the awesome thing that is being offered.

In some cases, we will find city parks or county park campgrounds that aren’t totally free, but are under $15 a night. I still consider this an incredible deal, and we will often use these parks as well. The rules and amenities at these places tend to be very similar to those found at free campgrounds.

Most of these low-cost campgrounds have a donation box available, in which you place your gift or camping fees. However, we have come across some places that require you to check in at the city hall, sheriff’s office, or even a local museum.

We’ve found free and low-cost campgrounds that are electric-only with nothing but a field of grass to park on. We’ve also found parks that offer full hookups (water, sewer, and electric) and concrete pads. Most have electric and water at each site and a dump station somewhere in the park or the town. Many are near the local pool, and the majority have a playground very close by. Once in a while we will come across a free campground with showers for RVers.

Every free or cheap campground we’ve ever found has been located in a small town, if not in the middle of nowhere. Sometimes the town might have something to do, or it might be 30–45 minutes from a big city. Other times, there isn’t much in the way of attractions for miles around.

Where to Find Free and Low-Cost Campgrounds with Hookups

Wondering how one might go about finding a place to stay for free (or almost free)? We usually use the website called FreeCampsites.net. As the name suggests, this site is dedicated to listing free campsites. It also includes low-cost campgrounds.

In order to find the campgrounds with hookups, I will filter my search to find only the campgrounds with the hookups I need. That said, sometimes a particular amenity may not be included in the listing, so if I’m having trouble finding what I need in a particular area, it does sometimes help to read reviews in case the thing I’m looking for isn’t listed properly.

Once I find something that looks like what I need, I don’t stop there. I dive deeper, reading all of the reviews on FreeCampites.net and then seeking out yet more reviews on other sites. I’ll also look for information about a given campground on its city website. This helps to ensure the campground is still in existence and as listed.

Besides FreeCampsites.net, there are other ways to find free and low-cost campgrounds. Some of the options we know if include:

  • Campendium — This works much like FreeCampsites.net and is often where I’ll turn second.
  • RoamFreely — This is an app that also works like FreeCampsites.net. It has some campgrounds listed that aren’t on either of the websites mentioned above, but it’s missing several as well.
  • Keeping your eyes peeled — Another great option is to keep an eye out for campsites that look like they might be a part of a city park or a casino. This works well if you take backroads often or enjoy visiting small towns. If you find some, stop and check. If it is indeed a free of low-cost place to stay, be sure to list it on Campendium and FreeCampsites.net.
  • Asking around — Finally, it never hurts to ask others about campsites they know of. Ask other RVers on Facebook groups and forums, or ask locals if they know of any great and inexpensive places to camp. You might be surprised at the hidden gems you can find.

Tips for Using Low-Cost Campgrounds

At this point, we’ve stayed in our fair share of these free and super cheap campgrounds. Along the way, we’ve learned a thing or two that help make our trips to these places a bit more enjoyable.

These are our top tips:

  • Arrive early — We are definitely not early risers. However, we have found that when it comes to free and cheap campsites, it pays to arrive as early as possible in order to snag a site.
  • Shower at the pool — As mentioned before, most of these campgrounds do not have showers for RVers. They also don’t tend to have sewer hookups at each site, making it necessary to conserve tank space. We’ve learned that the showers at the city pools are a great way to get clean and tend to be very low-cost.
  • Explore small towns — You might be far away from any true attractions, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing worth seeing nearby. Go into town and try the local coffee shop and eateries. Some of our favorites have been in tiny towns.
  • Look for historic markers — Even in the middle of nowhere with no true attractions around, you will see historic markers. Make a point of looking for these and stopping to check them out.
  • Be willing to drive to attractions — If you’re looking to visit a particular attraction or city, you might be able to find free camping as long as you’re willing to camp 45 minutes away.
  • Find campgrounds along your route — Even if there isn’t a free campground close to your final destination, there could be some along your route. Since we don’t like to drive more than 3 or 4 hours in a day, these campgrounds can be a great way to break up a long trip.

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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Robert T. ~ “Professional, knowledgeable and friendly. Wow, he took me step-by-step to guide me to the problem area and fix the blown fuses. I will highly recommend Coach-Net!”

Coach-Net Camping: Weekend At Texas Motorplex

05 Wednesday May 2021

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Leonard, one of our RV-certified technicians, has been with Coach-Net for over 6 years and has been RVing for over 30 years! He and his family had the opportunity to take Rosie, the Coach-Net Airstream, out to the Texas Motorplex for the weekend! They had a blast! Here’s a look into his trip!

Where did you go?

On March 25th, a few family members and I headed down to camp at the Texas Motorplex for the exciting weekend of Funny Car Chaos drag races.  The track is located in Ennis, Texas, which is about 30 miles south of Dallas. 

Our route from North Texas took us on Loop 12 to avoid the traffic through downtown Dallas. It was a nice 1 1/2 drive, and we were amazed by all the growth in the area.  Once at the track, we parked in our RV spot with full hookups, right on the fence of the spectator side.  It had the perfect view of all the action on the track, and close enough for us to walk if we choose to sit in the stands. My dad raced the Smokey Bear funny car for many years, so we continue to enjoy attending these racing events and seeing many good friends.

How long was your trip?

We Camped at the track Thursday through Saturday night which allowed for easy access to the 2 full days of drag racing.  It was nice to have a close spot to rest and get out of the weather as well.  We enjoyed tailgating with many old and new friends, and meeting our camping neighbors.  There were hundreds of RV’s from all over the U.S. around the track with people experiencing all the sights and sounds.

Was this your 1st time RVing?

We have been RVing since our first “pop up” in 97.  Through the years, we have owed and enjoyed camping in several travel trailers and one motor home.  This time we used Coach-Net’s truck and 2019 Airstream Flying Cloud.  It was perfect for this short camping trip, very easy to tow/set-up, and roomy enough for 4 adults.  

What’s the fondest memory of your trip?

Spending time with family is always on the list of why we camp, but seeing 68 drag racing “FUNNY CARS” was this weekends main objective.  The races and fuel alters were outstanding.  At one point, we were in the camper and felt the whole thing shake as a car went by at over 300 mph setting a speed world record.  A memory we won’t soon forget!

Where would you like to go next?

We have a tentative trip in the works for June, just need to decide where we want to go. Also, we already have reservations to enjoy the Coach-Net Airstream again in October when we attend the weekend of Funny Car Chaos racing, this time in beautiful San Antonio, Texas. 

Why do you love RVing?

Our favorite thing about RVing is that you can go anywhere, anytime and have an awesome adventure in your temporary house wherever YOU WANT! We wish everyone continued safe travels in their RVing journey.

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Scott B. ~ “I’ve always had great service through Coach-Net! I’ve had the “opportunity” to call Coach-Net several times, and they have always gone above and beyond in their help!” 

4 Memorable Places to Go RVing in Kansas

07 Wednesday Apr 2021

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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4 Memorable Places to Go RVing in Kansas

RVing is all about exploring new places, meeting new faces, getting out into the great outdoors, and making memories to last a lifetime. Every state in the U.S. offers many hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered.

There’s no place like home when you are in Kansas. The Sunflower State is known for its vast, open plains and cities like Wichita and Topeka. But nothing compares to RVing in the small towns of Kansas. Each town has its own charm and appeal and offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. They are worth at least an overnight stay on your RV travels through the official Geographical Center of the 48 States.

Wamego

Located at the intersection of U.S. Route 24 and K-99, Wamego, Kansas, is approximately 14 miles east of Manhattan and about 42 miles northwest of Topeka. Wamego is a mixture of entertainment, outdoor fun, and history. 

The Wizard of Oz is particularly popular here. The Oz Museum, which houses over 1,000 artifacts and film props, was founded in April 2004 and led to several other Oz-themed businesses. These include the Oz Winery and Toto’s Tacoz. The Yellow Brick Road sits almost directly across the street from the museum. Plus, every year, on the first weekend of October, Wamego holds its OZtoberFEST, an Oktoberfest-type celebration with plenty of Oz influence.

Another entertainment landmark is the Columbian Theatre. Now the venue for various productions from Broadway musicals to concerts, this two-story limestone building was home to vaudeville in the early 1900s.

If you want a break from the showbiz scene, you can head on over to the 15-acre Wamego City Park. A fixture of the park is the Dutch Mill, a 19th-century stone windmill. The Wamego Historical Museum and Prairie Town Village are also found in the park. This collection of buildings is a time capsule of Wamego’s past. The City Park also includes a swimming pool, tennis courts, playground, and fishing pond. With the Kansas River to the south of the city and natural parks nearby, Wamego offers many outdoor sports like fishing, hunting, canoeing, horseback riding, hiking, and more.

Dodge City

Dodge City, located in southwest Kansas, is riddled with historical sites, museums, and landmarks that date back to the Native Americans who lived off the land and its buffalo. The Santa Fe Trail brought settlers over, eventually establishing the frontier town. Many of the settlers were gamblers, gunslingers, and cattlemen.

The area portrays the city’s colorful culture at the Boot Hill Museum and its accompanying exhibits. Boot Hill Museum has over 20,000 artifacts on display, including more than 200 original guns. The museum’s largest exhibit, Front Street, is a partial reconstruction of downtown Dodge City. Travel in time, back to the dusty streets of the 1870’s and 1880’s, with gunfight reenactments and Western-themed tourist attractions, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can take a trolley tour of Dodge City’s historic sites or wander around exploring via the Dodge City Trail of Fame walking tour.

One of the best times to visit Dodge City is during Dodge City Days. This annual event, which celebrates the city’s unique western heritage, begins at the end of July and continues its festivities for 10 days. Several RV parks are located in and around Dodge City, like Gunsmoke RV Park and Dodge City KOA. During the summer, sites can fill up fast, so it’s a good idea to book early to get the heck into Dodge.

Lindsborg

Known as “Little Sweden USA” because of the influx of Swedish settlers in 1869, Lindsborg’s heritage is evident in its architecture, culture, food, and events. The Dala horse, a Swedish wooden horse, was even appointed as the town mascot. Visitors will be sure to spot many of these carefully painted and carved out statues throughout the town, as community members place them everywhere to keep with tradition.

Much of Lindsborg’s past is preserved in The Old Mill Museum. Made up of a series of historical buildings, the museum gives visitors a bit of insight into the town and its people from 1870 through 1910. Many special events occur throughout the year. Lindsborg’s signature celebration is the Svensk Hyllningsfest, a local Swedish-inspired festival dating back to 1941 that happens every other year in October.

Venture just northwest of Lindsborg to Coronado Heights Castle for a slight change in cultural and historical pace. Yes, there is a castle in the middle of Kansas. This stone shelter sits atop a sandstone bluff approximately 300 feet high. Near this location, supposedly, Francisco Vásquez de Coronado gave up his search for the seven cities of gold and returned to Mexico. Regardless if this is true or not, the summit has spectacular views for miles, including wildflowers blooming in the spring and summer.

Atchison

Atchison is a quaint town located alongside the Missouri River, about an hour northeast of Topeka. The town draws in many architecture-enthusiasts with its numerous stunning Victorian-style homes and buildings. 

Atchison also attracts paranormal enthusiasts as the town has been dubbed “the most haunted town in Kansas.” This is, in most part, due to its early settlement history. The Haunted Atchison season runs from September through Early-November and lures amateur and committed ghost hunters near and far. Haunted tours range from mystery dinners and spiritual readings to walking through cemeteries.

On a less spooky note but slightly on the same wavelength, Atchison is also the birthplace of Amelia Earhart. Her childhood home, which her grandfather constructed in the 1860s, is now a museum devoted to the renowned aviator. Every July, there is the Amelia Earhart Festival, where residents continue to pay tribute to her brave legacy.

Today’s Home on the Range


Of course, there are so many more nooks and crannies to explore in Kansas. This list barely scratches the surface of a state rich in history, culture, scenery, and industrial and technological development. As you map out your RV itinerary this year, consider Kansas as a stop along your journey. For even more places to visit in the midwestern state, visit their website, Travel Kansas.

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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Ellen W. ~ “The person who handled our call was excellent! She called back many times to check on us & made us feel like family. Hats off to her and the entire company!”

Kitchen Interior Design Ideas For Your RV

16 Tuesday Mar 2021

Posted by in Tips & Tricks

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Kitchen Interior Design Ideas For Your RV

11% of households in America own an RV, and over 25 million people go on vacation in one every year. When you own your RV, it means that you can change the interior design to suit your needs and your lifestyle. RV kitchen interior designs don’t have to be basic, and there are plenty of ways you can bring a touch of class to your RV. It is a good idea, however, to pick a stylistic theme for your décor in order to give your RV a unique character. Whether you go for shabby chic, industrial, arts and crafts, or even Hollywood glam, with a few changes, you can make your RV kitchen a special place that you will love spending time in. 

Update Your Kitchen Cabinets

Often sitting at eye level, your kitchen cabinets are one of the first things you notice when you walk in. It is worth getting cabinets updated – you don’t need to change the actual cupboards if they are in good repair: you can simply change the doors or give them a coat of varnish or paint. This will give a modern, luxury feel to your RV. Glossy paint is perfect if you are looking to give your RV a sleek, industrial look – you can go for bright, bold colors, or even a statement print. Sanding down your doors to bare wood can give your cabinets a natural feel, or you can use chalk paints if you are going for a bohemian style. If the kitchen cabinets in your RV are made from chipboard, you might want to think about replacing the doors for something more hardwearing, such as solid wood to give your RV kitchen a luxury feel. 

Replacing The Kitchen Worktop

Replacing or treating the worktop in your kitchen is another good way of giving it an update without ripping the entire kitchen out. You will need to be extra careful when you’re removing the worktop, and keep a note of the types of screws that are used to attach it. There are different screws for different purposes, and the ones needed to hold a worktop up will be heavy-duty. You don’t have to replace your kitchen worktop with Formica – using different materials will give your kitchen a luxury feel. You can go for bamboo, stainless steel, a natural tree slice, or even reclaimed wood. Just make sure that your kitchen worktop is varnished and treated if necessary so that it is functional as well as beautiful. 

A Tile Backsplash

A tile backsplash is an excellent way of adding color and character to your RV kitchen. You can choose something that ties in with your theme and color palette. Regular ceramic tiles are an easy way to create a backsplash, or you could create a mosaic from broken ceramic tiles for a rustic look. Pebbles and sea-glass are other good materials to make a mosaic from – just make sure that you measure your space carefully before you begin applying materials, or create your mosaic on a separate panel. Thin slices of wooden logs that have been oiled or waxed can be placed on the walls for a natural look. You could also make an effective backsplash using thin branches or bamboo affixed to the wall, either horizontally or vertically. Another good idea is to have a Perspex backsplash made up using photos that are treasured, perhaps of friends or family. 

The kitchen is the heart of your RV and can be a real statement area. Choose a theme for your kitchen, and you’ll be sure to have a space that is unique and stylish. 

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Coach-Net Camping: Haley – Never Stop

03 Wednesday Feb 2021

Posted by in We Love It. We Live It.

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If you’ve followed us on social media, you know that Haley has been an avid camper for many years now, but this past year was a busy one for her! She has traveled to many places and had some awesome experiences! Here’s her recap on the year!

We went camping quite a bit in 2020. Tyler State Park, Caddo Lake, Lake Ray Roberts, and our most recent trip was to Alto, New Mexico, and White Sands National Park.

Haley in White Sands National Park

Most of our camping destinations are weekend trips. There are a lot of beautiful parks that are only a couple hours away so, it’s easy to plan these miniature vacations.

I turned the big 3-0 a few weeks ago and my favorite place to celebrate anything is Caddo Lake State Park in Karnack, Texas. We got there in the afternoon. We drove around a bit and took some photos and got to kayak on the lake.

Caddo Lake

That evening we had the most amazing meal at Marilynn’s Place in Shreveport. The next day we went over to the park, went hiking, and walked around under the amazing cypress trees and Spanish moss.

Our most recent trip was to New Mexico for Christmas. This took a little longer but, it’s absolutely gorgeous and well worth the drive. I don’t know if people have favorite types of dirt but, I love seeing terracotta and there’s more than plenty in west Texas.

Especially in Brownfield. It’s mostly farmland so, the contrast between the orange dirt and green crops against the big blue sky is breathtaking. My boyfriend had never experienced Roswell so, it was fun to see his reaction to the martian shaped streetlamps, dental and law offices with pictures of UFOs on their signs, and a family reunion group wearing matching outer space t-shirts.

We spent a few days with my family in Alto where we hiked, had picnics, and came face to face with some elk. On the last day, we headed for White Sands National Park. I had wanted to go there since I was a kid and it was everything I could have hoped for. We immediately began making plans to go back and tent camp. After an entire roll of film, we started to head home.

White Sands National Park

We were pretty far south so, we took a different route. This took us through the mountains and an apple orchard town called Cloudcroft. A place that can only be described as adorable. We drove through a mountainside tunnel and all of the Lincoln National Forrest. New Mexico is called The Land of Enchantment and it certainly doesn’t fall short.

We have already booked our next camping trip. We’re going to Mineral Wells State Park in February. We have also been planning a trip to Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge in New Orleans for September. I’m already really looking forward to these trips and everything in between.

Choosing between a campsite and a hotel is truly a no brainer for me. I’m thankful to have a partner who shares this opinion and a job that celebrates it and encourages me to go out and find new beautiful places to explore. I’m one happy camper!

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Hartrich J. ~ “The service call to Coach-Net was answered immediately and the tow truck was here within 30 minutes. A follow-up call was made and we were very pleased with all of the responses. The tow truck company was personable and wonderful to work with. He had our vehicle at the dealer in half an hour! What a wonderful experience all around. Thank you!”