Tag Archives: US Traveling

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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Move Over Law – Helping Save Lives

16 Wednesday Aug 2017

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move over lawYou have loaded up your RV and have finally pulled out of your driveway.  Your much-anticipated camping trip has finally begun.  You’re cruising down the highway when you see a tow truck stopped on the side of the road to help the unfortunate traveler who has had a flat tire.  What do you do?

Did you know that there is a “Move Over Law”?  It is broken every day by many people as about 70% of Americans have never heard of this law.  Have you?  This extremely important and life-saving law requires drivers to move over and change lanes in order to give safe clearance to emergency responders, tow truck drivers and department of transportation workers.

RV towThe Move Over Law originated in the U.S. after James Garcia, a paramedic from South Carolina, was struck and injured at an accident scene on January 24, 1994.  It was about 6:30 a.m. and a driver was distracted while looking at the accident scene when he hit Garcia.  The driver slowed down to 45 mph but it was still too fast.  Garcia smashed into the windshield and bounced off over the van.  He was extremely lucky that his only injuries were a broken left leg and arm.  Garcia spent the following year working with his state legislature, and on March 1996, the United State’s first “Move Over Law” was passed.

By July 2012, all of the states across the country have implemented the Move Over Law.  The law started with protecting police officers, paramedics and fire fighters and has since expanded to protecting towing and recovery truck drivers and further expanded to include Department of Transportation workers.   It is up to every single motorist to do the right thing – always be paying attention to the road and start noticing tow truck operators working alongside emergency responders.

To emphasize the importance of this law and to honor towing operators killed in the line of service, the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum (ITRHFM) dedicated the Wall of the Fallen on September 9, 2006.  The mission statement of the Wall of the Fallen reads: “To honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, to generate public awareness of the dangers involved in the towing and recovery industry and to permanently record and commemorate those involved in fatalities in the towing and recovery industry.”  Sadly, the wall now includes over 400 names.

Wall of the Fallen“I have attended far too many funerals of friends and colleagues who have fallen victim to drivers not paying attention,” said Bud Gruber, president of Bald Eagle Towing & Recovery, Inc in Naples, Florida.  Bud was also the former chairman of the Towing and Recovery Association of America’s (TRAA) Communications Committee where he tirelessly advocates for the safety of tow truck operators and other roadside assistance providers.

“I understand that it can be extremely challenging for RVers to move over,” said Bud.  “After all, other motorists won’t always let you in their lane.  The best thing to do is to always be aware of your surroundings and keep looking far enough ahead to anticipate when you might need to slow down.”

The specifics of the “Move Over Law”, as well as the fines for breaking this law, vary from state to state.   In Texas, for example, the law states that motorists are required to reduce speed, not to exceed 20 mph less than a posted speed limit of 25 mph or more, or not more than 5 mph when the posted speed limit is under 25 mph.  Failure to follow the safety practices is a misdemeanor and could result in fines up to $200.  If the violation results in property damage, the fine could be as much as $500.  Finally, if the violation results in personal injury, violators could even serve jail time.  To find the specifics of the “Move Over Law” in your area, visit www.moveoverlaws.com.

If you find yourself in need of a tow or roadside assistance, please stay in your vehicle whenever possible.  If you are driving and see flashing lights or anyone outside of their vehicle near the highway, please remember that tow truck drivers risk their lives every day to come to the aid of those who have a breakdown, flat tire or who have been in an accident.  They deserve the utmost respect and the thoughtful consideration of all drivers to slow down and move over.

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Hot Weather RVing Tips

27 Tuesday Jun 2017

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hot weather rvingWe are well into the summer travel season, and although my family and I enjoy RV travel year-round, summer is arguably the most enjoyable. Many RVers that are not fulltimers likely do most or all of their camping in the spring and summer months.  Here are some tips and ideas for summer weather RVing.

Maintain A Comfortable Environment

The summer months in North America generally vary between very warm and extremely hot, so the first tip, and probably the most obvious, is to maintain a comfortable environment. This is especially important if you are visiting a hot location and are not particularly acclimatized to the heat.hot weather rving

  • The best way to do this is to make sure your air-conditioners are functioning properly.  This will be taken care of during your annual RV inspection and shakedown.  It is fundamentally important to have your RV fully and professionally inspected and serviced prior to each camping season. This will ensure that all your RV systems, including the propane appliances, are working properly and safely.
  • If it is not unbearably hot, you can save energy by simply opening the doors and windows in your RV and let the fresh air flow through. This works especially well if there is a cool breeze, and/or you are parked near the ocean.  Some RV parks actually limit or prohibit air conditioner operation due to the excessive power consumption.
  • Consider opening roof vents, closing day shades, extending window awnings, and using ceiling and vent fans to help circulate the air. This works better than you might imagine. Although my coach has two air conditioners, I prefer letting nature blow through my RV whenever possible.
  • If there are nasty flying insects about, simply keep your screen windows and doors closed.
  • With all this said, the best way to avoid a hot RV in the summer is to GO OUTSIDE! After all, the reason most of us camp in the summer is to enjoy the great outdoors in the great weather. Spend the day exploring your surroundings with a walk in nature or a visit to local sightseeing destination.

If you use the above methods to cool down your RV during the day while you are out, you should find that it is reasonably cool in the evening when you return.

Use Your Awnings

You may also choose to spend the day outside, but stay close to your rig. Main awnings do a very good job of creating shade on a sunny day. Roll out the awning and create a nice patio environment underneath. Position the picnic table and camp chairs, pour the iced tea and enjoy some family time.RV awnings

Hot Weather RVing with Pets

One of the most important hot weather advice for RV owners is to NEVER leave your four-legged furry, feathered, or other family members in a hot vehicle or direct sunlight without access to shade and fresh water! If you must leave your pet behind in your rig, I always recommend leaving the air conditioner on. Make sure there is a cool place for them to retreat in case of an air-conditioner failure. The bathroom area is often a good place to put food, water, toys, and a blanket (in the case of a dog).RVing with pets

Finally, always remember that when you travel by RV, the entire country is your backyard!

About the Author:

Steve Froese, an avid RV owner, traveler, and  Coach-Net member since 2013, is the principal of “A Word to the Wise Technical Communications”, a published RV author, certified RV technician, and licensed Professional Engineer. He frequently collaborates with the “RV Doctor”, Gary Bunzer, and has worked with the RVIA/RVDA as a technical and training writer and consultant. Professionally, he works as a quality engineer and musician. Watch for more of Steve’s work in upcoming Coach-Net publications.

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Avoid Summer Campground Crowds in Three Easy Steps

29 Wednesday Mar 2017

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avoid crowded campgroundSummer sunshine is just around the corner and the best time for RVing is almost here. But when school gets out and thousands of RVers compete for prime spots in the great outdoors, do you know how to avoid summer campground crowds?

It Only Takes Three Steps to Avoid Summer Campground Crowds

Follow these three suggestions before hitting the road and you’ll score that perfect spot every time.

Plan Your Summer Vacation Now

make reservationsSome of the best RVing destinations like scenic national park beaches are on many RVer’s bucket lists for a reason. Unfortunately, these spots fill up fast when good weather happens. Popular RVing destinations almost always require advance reservations. Spontaneity is great outside of the high season but if you don’t want to get turned away at the gate do your research now.

  • Visit national park websites and choose the “Plan Your Visit” menu option to learn the best times to avoid campground crowds.
  • If you prefer staying in RV parks, call the park office and inquire about visiting during less busy times. Some even offer lower mid-week rates.
  • Whatever campground you choose, always reserve your spot if you’re visiting during peak season.

Try Dry Camping on Public Lands

dry camping Dry camping on public lands is a great option to avoid summer campground crowds and save money on your RV adventures. Many people enjoy the independence of living off-grid without RV hookups. Although it’s helpful to have the right RV solar power system for your needs, your RV generator can keep you just as comfy in the outback.

The Bureau of Land Management has millions of acres in the west where you can try dry camping and many cost nothing or charge very nominal fees. RVers in the eastern states don’t have BLM lands but can enjoy other free camping options like state-run Department of Wildlife / Natural Resources agencies, U.S. Forest Service managed lands and various recreation areas owned by individual states.

Some of these public camping spots are more well-loved than others, but a good Internet search about your destination will tell you when you’ll find fewer crowds.

  • Visit Recreation.gov to find a spot near your intended destination.
  • Search online for “Free camping in: _____” to find additional dry camping spots.

Camp on the Outskirts

camp on the outskirtsIf your summer vacation budget is tight, you can save money by camping on the outskirts of major attractions along your route. RV parks and campgrounds close to popular summer destinations like national parks and beaches will always be more crowded and cost more than competitors located down the highway. When your goal is to avoid summer crowds, choose campgrounds and RV parks that aren’t quite as convenient to major attractions. You may need to drive a couple of minutes longer to see things on your bucket list, but you’ll have more money to spend on souvenirs.

Let’s face it, even the best RV trip planning can go awry. Campgrounds get filled, traffic is often unavoidable and Mother Nature always bats last. Even the most detailed pre-trip planning should include an alternate trip itinerary just in case conditions become unfavorable at your destination. Keep a few other camping options up your sleeve just in case. Should you need to change destinations on the fly, everyone in your family will stress less and have a better time getting there.

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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Journey through the Badlands: A Camper’s Guide

03 Friday Mar 2017

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badlands-south-dakotaSouth Dakota’s Badlands National Park is a treasure trove of green prairies, rich fossil beds, and a variety of wildlife. There are plenty of great activities to discover in the area surrounding the park, so set up camp at Sage Creek Campground, and get ready to explore. At Sage Creek Campground in South Dakota’s Badlands National Park you’ll awaken to herds of buffalo, view breathtaking sunsets over waves of grassy prairies, visit historic homesteads and embark on incredible hikes.

1880 Town

1880 Town is an attraction for all ages, featuring 30 buildings, all of which were built between the 1880s and the 1920s. The town has authentic furniture and relics from the past; a museum dedicated to Casey Tibbs, the nine-time World Champion Rodeo Cowboy (yeehaw!); and even props from the movie “Dances with Wolves”. We can’t guarantee that you’ll be dancing with any wolves, but we do know that you’re in for a good time. The site even offers costume rentals so you can fit right in with your surroundings.1880-town

Prairie Homestead

Built in 1909 by the Brown Family, the Prairie Homestead is one of the last remaining sod homes in the United States. Take a tour of the home, find some great souvenirs in the new gift shop, or get the whole family to dress up in period clothing (perfect for funny photo shoots). Make sure to check out their adorable prairie dogs, too. Bonus: Children under nine are able to go in free!

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site

Minuteman Missile National Historic Site was founded in 1999 in order to show Americans how close our country was to WWIII. The site is one of the only places that you’re able to view a real nuclear missile that was set up for use during the Cold War. A guided tour of the site includes silos as well as the control room. You’ll probably leave thinking that this place is… the bomb!minuteman-missile-national-historic-site

Castle Trailhead

Castle Trail is the longest trail in Badlands National Park, spanning approximately 10 miles. Used far less than many of the other trails in the park, peaceful Castle Trail provides many opportunities for you to view the wildlife of the park. The trail also winds right by the Fossil Exhibit Trail, where you can view and read about fossil replicas.

Two Bit Saloon & Steakhouse

During your trip, stop by Two Bit Saloon & Steakhouse for a local experience—and some of the best burgers in South Dakota. Make sure to visit on a Friday or Saturday, as those are the only days that they serve their full menu. On weekends, the place is packed with locals, and that’s always a good sign.two-bit-saloon-and-steakhouse

Wall Drug Store

Wall Drug Store is an attraction not to be missed in South Dakota. The store grew famous for going from being a small drug store offering free ice water in the 1930s to growing into a massive tourist attraction. The store offers an old-fashioned soda fountain, five-cent coffee, and a variety of kitschy gifts for everyone in its labyrinthine complex of shops and restaurants. And don’t miss the 80-foot-tall dinosaur!

Sage Creek Campground

At Sage Creek Campground, you’ll get to camp out surrounded by Badlands beauty and native wildlife. This campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, but camping here is completely FREE! Keep in mind that the campground does not offer water, hookups, or bathroom facilities, but who needs those things when you’ve got cute prairie dogs and a beautiful sunrise?sage-creek-campground

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park is truly a divine demonstration of geologic beauty. Featuring a 60-mile multicolored wall of sediment layers, the park is also home to a whole host of buffalo, prairie dogs, and antelope. There’s even an opportunity to gaze at the ancient fossils of extinct creatures. The park is a treasure for all ages.

Rushmore Cave

We all have heard of Mount Rushmore, but how about Rushmore Cave? Wind your way through narrow passageways and view rare geological formations in South Dakota’s ninth largest cave. The guided tours are fun for the whole family, and you even can upgrade your ticket to include a ride on their famed zip-line. Kids also can pick out and crack open their own geodes. It’s a rockin’ time!rushmore-cave

A haven for earth and animal lovers alike, Badlands National Park offers a unique experience in the wild prairies of South Dakota. Get ready to camp under the stars and wake up next to buffalo on your next adventure of a lifetime.

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Southeast Nevada: An outdoor adventurer’s playground

24 Friday Feb 2017

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southeast-nevadaFrom waterfalls to slot canyons to… aliens?

There’s so much to see and do just outside the bright neon lights of Las Vegas. It’s a veritable outdoor playground for adventurers and explorers to discover! From majestic sandstone arches to twisting slot canyons to lush waterfalls, you could easily spend a few days, a week, or even a month exploring Southeast Nevada… oh, and you might even encounter some extraterrestrial life along the way.

 Little A’Le’Inn

Located right near the notoriously top-secret military base Area 51, the Little A’Le’Inn is a great roadside attraction to stop by during your trip across Nevada. The Little A’Le’Inn triples as a motel, restaurant, and gift shop, where you can stock up on kitschy alien souvenirs. As it’s located pretty much in the middle of nowhere, it’s a welcome sight for travelers. Friendly service, good food, and cold beer can be hard to come by in the middle of the desert, and they provide all of that, plus a few great alien conspiracy theory stories, to boot.Little A'Le'Inn

Tikaboo Peak

The closest (legal) spot to peer into Area 51, Tikaboo Peak offers a rare glimpse into the famed bastion of extraterrestrial lore. The base is still about 26 miles away from the peak, but on a clear day, you can see the buildings as well as aircraft taking off. But, if you’re looking to spot UFOs, bring flashlights and make the trek around sunset… you never know what you might see.

Cathedral Gorge State Park

 Cathedral Gorge State Park is a stop you shouldn’t miss. The park’s bounty of dramatic cathedral-like spires eroded from bentonite clay are fodder for both professional and amateur photographers. Hike a variety of trails to explore the formations, and then take a break at the well-maintained picnic facility. Cathedral Gorge is not just a paradise for geologists; ornithologists will be thrilled with the abundant bird life as well.Cathedral Gorge State Park

Beaver Dam State Park

Featuring deep canyons and rushing streams, Beaver Dam State Park is a relaxing place to spend your day hiking, camping, and fishing. Make sure to check out the Overlook Trail, which gives you a panoramic view of the entire park. The park’s history dates back to 1849, when a family of pioneers named the Hamlins settled down in the area and built a blacksmith shop, house, and schoolhouse for local children. The remains of the Hamlin settlement are still available for public view and are located in the northern part of the park.

Virgin River Canyon

Located within 10 miles of the Arizona, Nevada, and Utah borders, Virgin River Canyon is a delight for people of all ages. The canyon contains two short hiking trails that lead to the Virgin River and provide the opportunity to spot bighorn sheep, which are plentiful in the region. The campground is well maintained and only costs $8.00 per night. If you really want to get away for a night, this is the place to stay!Virgin River Canyon

Lost City Museum-Archaeology

Built to preserve artifacts from southern Nevada, the Lost City Museum is an amazing celebration of human history. With artifacts from a variety of sites along the Muddy River Valley (discovered by explorer Jedediah Smith), the museum now contains a theater, a library, and some outdoor exhibits. The main gallery focuses on Ancestral Puebloans, but you also can check out displays on fossils and ancient baskets, as well as a reconstructed pit house. Wild fact: All of the artifacts were nearly lost under water when the Hoover Dam (then the Boulder Dam) was built. They were excavated just before Lake Mead was created by the dam!

Valley of Fire Slot Canyon

Located along the White Domes Trail in Valley of Fire State Park, the Valley of Fire Slot Canyon is a dream come true for desert landscape-lovers. The 1.1-mile trail loops through an old Western movie set and then brings you to a slot canyon, which features a narrow opening that drops a hundred feet below. Visiting the canyon is a truly magical experience that you won’t want to miss.valley-of-fire-slot-canyon

Arch Rock Campground

For only $10.00 a night, Arch Rock Campground is a great place to bed down. Each campsite is located in a notch in the canyon, providing visitors with a sense of privacy as well as with the ability to get up close and personal with the rock formations. Plus… free showers and dump stations! (Bonus: The facilities are immaculate.) Desert nights can be far colder than desert days, so make sure to pack accordingly.

Mary Jane Falls

Picturesque Mary Jane Falls and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities, from rock climbing to hiking to just picking wildflowers. The hike up has a pretty steep incline, so get ready to work up a sweat as you make your way to the falls. The payoff is definitely worth it.mary-jane-falls

As you explore the alien legends, desert rock formations, and ancient archaeological sites around Nevada, you’ll forget entirely that the state is mostly known for the bright neon and bustle of Las Vegas. There’s so much more to the state than Sin City, so get ready for the adventure of a lifetime exploring everything Nevada has to offer!

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Feel the sand between your toes at Camp Gulf in Destin, FL

03 Friday Feb 2017

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Camp Gulf - Destin. FLA family RV trip to the beach sounds like the perfect vacation… but finding the perfect place to put it in park is crucial to the trip. If you plan for a stay at Camp Gulf in Destin, Florida, though, you’re pretty much guaranteed an awesome getaway. Why? Because not every RV resort offers campsites right on the beach. Like, literally in the sand. Nope, this is not an island fantasy… this real-life Kokomo is for real!

Camp Gulf

Camp Gulf’s beachfront sites are, as they say, “as close as you can get” to the ocean, with the sand and waves right outside your door. That means incredible views of the water, 24/7. They also have other sites that aren’t on the shore— which means less sand, and a shorter walk to the solar-heated pool and activity center. Even the sites that are the furthest away from the beach are only a 5-minute walk.

Camp GulfShould you ever tire of the beach (which seems impossible, right?) they offer water slides, a spa pool, ice cream socials, pancake breakfasts, basketball courts, even golf cart and yolo board rentals to make your beach experience even more enjoyable. If you’re traveling with friends or family who don’t have an RV, they’re welcome as well: Camp Gulf offers cabins and a massive beach house for rent!Camp Gulf

And even though there’s no real reason to leave the Camp, it’s a quick drive to other sandy shores like Destin Beach, Crystal Beach, and Henderson Beach State Park. The location is also near classic attractions like Big Kahunas Water and Adventure Park or even Power Up Watersports, which lets you try on a water-propelled jetpack and soar above the ocean. And, when you’re all done for the day, you can come back to your RV and rest up for the next day’s adventure!

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The Best-Kept Secret Swimming Holes of Central Florida

30 Friday Dec 2016

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swimming-holes-of-central-floridaCentral Florida is home to much more than just theme parks. It’s also where Floridians find refreshment on hot days and warm nights. Take a day off from Mickey Mouse and friends and get ready to soak up the sun (and the water) in one of the many hidden swimming holes in Central Florida.

Wekiwa Springs State Park

A reminder of what Florida used to look like when it was inhabited by the Timucua Indians, Wekiwa Springs State Park will be the first stop on your wet and wild adventure. Along with a beautiful cold spring to swim in, the park offers 13 miles of hiking trails as well as opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. The swimming spring is only five feet deep, making it a great and safe spot for the whole family to take a dip. Make sure to arrive early, as the parking lot fills up quickly.wekiwa springs state park

Kelly Park Rock Springs

With a year-round temperature of 68°F, Kelly Park Rock Springs is a wonderful place to cool down on a hot day. Because the park’s creek flows freely and swiftly, one of the most popular activities among visitors is tubing. A float down the “lazy river” takes about 30 minutes to complete. The park also hosts an ever-popular Cardboard Canoe Regatta, normally held in the fall. Build your boat and sign up!

kelly park rock springs

De Leon Springs State Park

With more than 625 acres of fun, De Leon Springs State Park is ideal for travelers with varied interests. The spring remains at 72°F year round and produces 19 million gallons of water per day. That’s a whole lotta agua! The swimming area is handicap accessible and offers both scuba and snorkeling opportunities, and the park rents out kayaks, and canoes. Make sure to check out the nearby Sugar Mill Restaurant where you can cook your own pancakes right at the table. Sounds divine, doesn’t it?

de leon springs state park

Ocala National Forest

The southernmost woodland in the United States, Ocala National Forest is a wonderful place to explore the beauty of nature. The park has an impressive number of crystal-clear springs, ponds, lakes and springs (more than 600, actually) which are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The park also hosts a 66-mile stretch of the Florida Scenic Trail as well as a variety of bike and horse-friendly trails. In December, Ocala is one of the few places you can go to cut down your own Christmas tree.

ocala national forest

Rainbow Spring State Park

There’s evidence that people have been using this spring for more than 10,000 years—and you, too, can make history at Rainbow Spring State Park. Featuring the fourth-largest spring in Florida, this park is a popular site for canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and of course, swimming. In all, the park’s spring pumps 500 million gallons of water per day! Helpful tip: Make sure to arrive when the park opens at 8 a.m. Once it’s at capacity, which typically happens by 10 a.m. on weekends and holidays, all other visitors will be turned away. Also, tubing is only available on the weekends.

rainbow spring state park

Rock Springs Run State Reserve

With swamps, pines, and springs, Rock Springs Run State Reserve is your next stop. The park has 17 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback-riding trails, as well as designated hunting areas. The park (along with 74 other Florida state parks) offers a geocaching program for those looking to go on a high-tech treasure hunt. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife within the park, such as the Florida black bear and the sandhill crane.

rock springs run state reserve

Yellow Dog Eats

Named for a painting of a yellow dog owned by Chef Fish Morgan, Yellow Dog Eats is a perfect place to refuel during your trip. All of the delicious meals—which feature creative titles such as “What the Fig?” and “Are You Chicken?”—are made from scratch, and the ingredients are locally grown. They even have a menu for the “pups” (kids)!

yellow dog eats

Lake Louisa State Park

Next up on your journey is the peaceful Lake Louisa State Park—a wonderful escape right outside of Orlando. The park, which lies within the Green Swamp, features a variety of lakes for your swimming pleasure and is a great place to spot bald eagles. It also has quiet campsites and cabins. Make sure to watch the sunset over the lake—it’s a photo op that cannot be missed!

lake louisa state park

Bok Tower Gardens

Also known as the “Singing Tower,” Bok Tower Gardens is a jaw-droppingly beautiful attraction. An ornate, pink 205-foot tower (which houses a museum) dominates the skyline at this garden, and there are many paths on which you can explore Florida’s diverse flora and fauna. Don’t forget your bug spray so you can explore the area in peace.

bok tower gardens

Tropical Palms Resort & Campground

What trip to Florida would be complete without a stop to visit America’s favorite animated mouse? Tropical Palms Resort & Campground, located two miles away from Walt Disney World, is the perfect place to park your camper and head on over to sing “It’s A Small World” with all of the beloved Disney characters.With more swimming holes than you can shake a stick at, central Florida is the perfect setting for a great time. Bask in the great weather, lush greenery, cool and fresh spring water, and vacation vibes as you explore the heart of the state. What are you waiting for? Dive on in!

tropical palms resort and campground
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Six Great National Parks to Enjoy the Holidays

14 Wednesday Dec 2016

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National Parks for the HolidayA little secret: Among the best ways to escape holiday stress is a national park trip. Though often thought of as a summer destination, only a couple of the parks close in winter, and almost all offer warm, cozy and peaceful holiday experiences. A bonus is that almost all parks are less crowded during winter.Here are six great holiday-themed must-do’s at our national parks:

 Winter Wonderland

Yellowstone National Park

Book a getaway at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, which can only be reached this time of year by snow coach or snowmobile. The Christmas-decorated lodge keeps its fireplace burning with plenty of hot cocoa for visitors. During the day, hike past “ghost trees,” formed when the steam from the Old Faithful geyser freezes on pine tree needles. Bison with snow-covered manes often feed across the geyser valley.Bison in winter

Polar Express Train Ride

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Throughout December before Christmas, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad’s Polar Express chugs through the scenic Ohio park. Among the highlights on the refurbished passenger train is a reading of the children’s book “Polar Express,” which inspired a movie and this trip. Many passengers ride the train in their pajamas! If in the Southwest, a private company also runs a Polar Express to Grand Canyon National Park.polar express

Luminaria-Lit Skiing

Denali National Park

Every December, rangers light the small paper lanterns that line ski trails at the Alaska park. Visitors also can snowshoe or stroll the route, which leaves from the Murie Science and Learning Center, Denali’s Winter Visitor Center. Several other National Park Service sites offering luminaria displays and hikes including Florida’s De Soto National Memorial and Arizona’s Tonto National Monument.luminaria display

Snowshoe Wildlife Hike

Rocky Mountain National Park

Ranger-led snowshoe tours lead visitors of this Colorado park to a variety of wildlife, including elk, coyotes, deer and snowshoe hares. The trail is utterly quiet as snow-capped mountains and evergreens rise around you on all sides.
snowshoe trails

New Year’s Eve Candlelight Walk

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Bonfires, roasted marshmallows, and miles of candlelit trails can be enjoyed throughout the National Park Service area surrounding North America’s longest river. The festivities are centered on historic Fort Snelling State Park, which sits in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area’s national river and rec area.roasting marshmallows

Caroling in a Cave

Mammoth Cave National Park

In early December each year, the Kentucky park holds Christmas carol singing in the world’s longest cave system. It’s a tradition that goes back to 1883 when local residents held the first Christmas celebration in the cave’s passageways. Though this year’s caroling has passed, mark it on the calendar for 2017’s must-do’s!Mammoth Cave 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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Key West and Dry Tortugas National Park

04 Friday Nov 2016

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Key WestKey West is your gateway to Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the most incredible parks in all of America. Journey through time, from the 18th century to the 20th, explore maritime history, meet a few ghosts, and eat some delicious Key Lime Pie. A walled-in island oasis located in the Florida Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park features a plethora of diverse marine life and a variety of water sports for kids and adults of all ages to enjoy. On your way to the park, only accessible by boat or plane, you can enjoy many of the attractions that Key West has to offer.

Higgs Beach And Pier

A wonderful beach with clean water and a sprawling pier, Higgs Beach is a great place to stop and relax on your trip across Key West. Beachgoers can rent chairs and umbrellas for reasonable prices, and even swim and snorkel in the sea. An area often frequented by locals, Higgs Beach is considered to be one of the best beaches in Key West. It’s like a real-life Kokomo!

Higgs Beach and Pier

Boyd’s Key West Campground

Boyd’s Key West Campground has everything you need for a perfect FL camping trip. There’s a tiki bar, a pool, shady sites, even a boat launch and kayak rentals so you can get out on the water! Plus, it’s pretty close to everything Key West has to offer– most attractions are a short taxi ride away!

Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe

Key lime pie is considered to be one of the ultimate vacation treats, and Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe is a great place to get your sweet fix on your trip. Not only is this shop known for its key lime pie, but it also offers a variety of other goodies, such as key lime cookies, salsa, taffy, tea, olive oil, and more.

Key Lime Pie

Captain Tony’s Saloon

Over the years, Captain Tony’s Saloon has been frequented by the likes of Jimmy Buffett, Ernest Hemingway, and even our favorite childhood author, Shel Silverstein. What many guests don’t know, however, is that the saloon started out as an icehouse and morgue! Now, Captain Tony’s is a must-see spot for Key West visitors. Make sure to put a quarter in the mouth of the giant Jewfish hanging outside (if you can reach it)—it’s considered to be a good-luck charm!

Ghosts & Gravestones

A “frightseeing tour on the Island of Bones,” the Ghosts & Gravestones tour of Key West is not for the faint of heart—but it is worth every penny. You’ll go on a spine-tingling night ride across the city, passing by famous landmarks of murder and misfortune from Key West’s past. The tour even takes you to the East Martello Fort, where you can catch a glimpse of the haunted Robert the Doll.

Ghosts and Gravestones tour

Shipwreck Historeum

Formerly known as the Shipwreck Historeum, the Shipwreck Treasure Museum offers a look at old shipwreck artifacts, which call to mind a decadent past when the rich dealt in gold and jewels. From 1820 to the 1850s, Key West was the richest city per capita in the USA, all due to treasure found from shipwrecks around the island. You’ll even get an opportunity to try to lift a bar of silver recovered from a Spanish shipwreck. Are you strong enough?

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is a waterfront plaza best known for its nightly Key West Sunset Celebrations. Vendors, local musicians, magicians, clowns, and more gather for the event—but nothing can compete with the spectacular colors of a Key West sunset.

Mallory Square

Fort Jefferson

Fort Jefferson is one of the most iconic sights in Dry Tortugas National Park. The largest masonry structure in the Americas, the unfinished fortress is made up of more than 16 million bricks! Its construction began all the way back in 1847, and even though the six-sided, four-tiered, 1,000-heavy-gun fort was never completed, it remained in active use from the Civil War until the 1930s.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park itself has plenty of activities to offer. You can reach the park via a daily ferry or by seaplane. Seaplanes allow you to get a beautiful view of the island and surrounding sea, so consider chartering one from Key West Sea Plane Charters. After you’re inside the park, you can swim, snorkel, explore the fort, stargaze, and even dive down to explore shipwrecks.

Dry Tortuga National Park

With beaches, celebrity saloons, famously tasty pie, shipwreck treasures, a magnificent park only accessible by boat or plane, and much more, Key West is a great place for your next camping trip.

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