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We at RV Camping Magazine send our condolences to the family of Newmar’s co-founder, Mahlon Miller. Known as the “Father of the Slide-Out,” this RV Hall of Fame Inductee was a community leader and loved by everyone he touched. The RV World will miss him.
Saturday, May 8th, is the season finale of RV Unplugged. Mike and Susan talked off-camera with the finalists. Learn more about Irene Iron Travels and the Newstate Nomads in our Feature Articles about each of them!
Our RVing with pets theme starts with the Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds in our Are We There Yet? Department. In NC, there’s a campground with fenced-in campsites for off-leash fun.
Our Drivable Motorhome Department shows you Class A and C Motorhome Toy Haulers That Are Pet-Friendly. These RVs can be the perfect solution for your pet's needs.
The Towable Trailers Segment has some of the Best Full-Time Fifth Wheels for Pet Lovers. You’ll appreciate the motionsensor lighting at night, so you don’t trip over your Black Lab.
our Van & Truck Camper Section.
Our RV Gear Department gives you great ideas for the Best Pet Gear For RVs to keep your pets occupied while you’re away. After all, no one wants to be “those RVers” with the noisy dog.
To keep the A/C going and the pet camera operating, you need a good RV Battery. Todd from the NRVTA talks to us about Which RV Battery Is Best For You in our Nuts & Bolts Section.
Finally, our News & Noteworthy Section discusses the Bills the States of Florida and Montana have on the floor to help with campground congestion. Each proposes limits on out-of-state reservations so that in-state RVers can enjoy their local State Parks.
We hope you enjoy our May issue of RV Camping Magazine, and thank you for your subscription.
Mike and Susan AT RVBLOGGEREDITORIAL
EDITOR IN CHIEF Mike Scarpignato
BRAND MANAGER Susan Scarpignato
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Brian Newman
DESIGN
SR. ART DIRECTOR Kelly Y. Lee
CONTRIBUTORS
NRVTA
Thomas Godwin Terri Nighswonger
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ADVERTISING SALES Mike Scarpignato mike@rvblogger.com 443-699-6556
EDITORIAL mike@rvblogger.com
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BY THE NRVTA
If you’re considering changing your RV’s house batteries from the standard lead acid batteries to AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or Lithium Ion, we have 7 points you want to consider before swapping out.
The first thing you want to consider is the cost of replacing the
standard lead acid battery in your rig. As you can see on our chart, lead acid batteries are the cheapest type of RV battery. AGM battery prices are around double the price of standard versions.
Lithium batteries are a real investment. You're looking at $950 to over $1,000
per battery. Many of you may be thinking, “oh my gosh, is it even worth it?” The quick answer ispossibly.
Next, let's look at the weight issues of RV batteries. A standard lead acid battery weighs
anywhere between 60 and 70 lbs. AGM batteries weigh anywhere from 80 to 100 lbs each.
If you go with lithium, you're looking at 20 to 30 lbs per battery. So if weight is a consideration for you, this might be your best option. Lithium batteries may be the best option for
those who want multiple batteries but need to keep their RV light.
An RV battery’s life cycle
is how many times it can be charged before it’s no longer able to retain usable energy.
Our chart shows that AGM batteries last 2-3 times longer than lead acid
batteries. Lithium usually lasts about 10 times longer than standard versions.
Fully draining a lead acid battery of power will damage and shorten its life. Manufacturers recommend that you can drain them to about 50%. AGM batteries are still lead-acid, but some can handle a 70% discharge.
Lithium batteries can technically be drained all the way down, like your cell phone. But for safety’s sake, we’ll say you can
no additional cost!
Should the unexpected take place, this plan provides coverage to return your dependents, pets, and RV home if you are not able to drive. While most people never experience a serious illness or accident during their travels, things can and do happen. Having a comprehensive medical emergency evacuation/repatriation and travel assistance program will allow you to enjoy your travels and focus on what’s most important to you. FMCAssist equals peace of mind.
By joining FMCA today, you’ll receive coverage immediately and save $10 off your first year of FMCA membership.
safely go to 85-95%.
Generally, the recharge rate of a lithium battery is 4 times faster than a standard lead acid battery. Your charge rate is determined by how many amps the charger can send and the battery can accept.
For your RV batteries to operate at peak performance, they need to be cared for monthly. Lead acid batteries require more maintenance than the other types.
You need to pop the caps off and look at the fluid levels on lead acid batteries. If the fluid is low, add distilled water. Tap and other types of water have chemicals and minerals that hinder
the battery from working properly.
Second, the battery terminal needs to be cleaned from any corrosion (the green stuff).
Third, as lead acid batteries begin to die, they will lose voltage. Use an electric multimeter to test the batteries. If it’s around
6V, it's time to replace them.
Fourth, regardless of battery type, check
the connections to the battery terminals on a weekly basis. Road vibrations and other factors can loosen them.
Last, The one issue with lithium batteries is the outside temperature. They don’t charge well when it's below 40°F.
The final consideration is if you want to add a new second battery.
Always start with fresh lead acid batteries if you’re adding a second one. If you add a new battery to an existing standard battery, the new one will only operate at the older one’s level.
So, if an existing battery operates at 60%, so will the new one. The same is true with AGM batteries. Lithium batteries don’t have this age issue.
Hopefully these tips will help you to decide which type of RV battery is best for you.
If you would like to be able to fix the majority of the problems on your RV yourself, check out the Home Study Course offered by the NRVTA!
If you take your pets with you when you RV, you know they need about as much stuff as a kid. Of course, you want them to be comfortable while you are traveling or if they are left in the RV.
Take a look at these great pet toys that will provide plenty of entertainment for your cat or dog and help keep them calm while you are away.
My dogs would definitely be all in for this pet monitoring camera and treat dispenser. This wonderful piece of RV gear helps you check on your pet anytime. It has full HD live streaming video, a wide-angle view, 30 feet of night vision, and an 8X digital zoom.
The two-way audio allows you to talk to your pet and hear them bark or meow back. You get notifications if the camera detects any sound or motion in your RV that should not be there either.
Also, the device provides treats for your pet remotely with the
dispenser that has a 1.5-pound container. The system can toss dry, crunchy dog and cat treats a short, medium, or long distance. It can also be set
to schedule automatic treat dispensing via the app.
The PetCube Camera also has a built-in 24/7 online vet chat that lets you
consult with a veterinarian by simply starting a chat from the Petcube app. Get answers to your health, behavior, and nutrition questions when needed.
If you need to keep Fido busy while you are away from your RV, this interactive dog toy with a treat dispenser ball is just what you need.
The toy integrates voice, puzzles, a food dispenser, and more to keep your dog
or cat busy for hours. The toy's self-entertainment aspect helps your pet have less anxiety when you are away. Also, when a dog rolls the toy, the food is dispensed. They get food while playing, which improves their intelligence and brain development. You can open one or two dispenser
holes or turn off the dispenser function. Just about any smaller treat can be dispensed with this product.
The sound device will also attract your dog’s attention, curiosity, and love for this toy.
Dogs instinctively have a need to chew, and this non-toxic chew toy helps your dog deal with nervousness, separation anxiety, and release excess energy when you are away. It also enhances the dog’s
chewing ability to deal with his or her insecurities. Also, the toy's irregular pattern cleans their teeth.
The double-ring design is suitable for tug of war. The natural rubber and durable food-grade nylon are made for large dogs and aggressive chewers. It
is washable and withstands strong chewing keeping your dog happy and safe. The company also offers a free replacement guarantee if it breaks down within three months.
Dogs are not the only pets that travel in an RV. The Migipaws WhackA-Mole Plus by DMPets will fulfill your cat's prey drive, imitating mice or other prey.
Feathers and ribbons randomly pop out of 12 holes from the top or side of this cat toy. It stirs up their hunting instincts for catching, batting, swatting, and pouncing. Sensors detect the cat from a 3-foot range.
The game will automatically start to interact with the cat. You won’t have to worry about a manual on and off switch. Your cat(s) can play even when no one is home.
A rechargeable battery gives about 7 days of cat play with 30 minutes per day. The package comes with extra ribbons as refills (just in case the bait feathers actually get caught and chewed up, which are non-toxic). VISIT
Cats love to climb and be high up in a room. It helps them to feel secure and monitor the whole room. You can mount this in a corner that will allow your cat to perch up high in your RV. It comes with
three stepping boards so even your older or “overlyspoiled” kitty will not have trouble getting to the perch.
High-quality materials will support your cat, and an enlarged base will offer reliable stability to prevent wobbling or tipping. The
cat hammock comes with a simple assembly process and is designed in neutral colors to match your RVs style.
Keeping your pets occupied while you are away, enjoying the sights allows everyone to enjoy the RV vacation. One of the biggest problems pet owners face is the noise complaints they receive after a day of fun around the area.
Many dog-friendly campgrounds will state in their rules that if your dog's barking disturbs your neighbors too much, they have the right to ask you to leave. Even if your pup is quiet, insecurity can turn your RV furniture into chew toys or suffer digging destruction. Cats can also be destructive when
insecure or bored.
The best way to avoid these loneliness concerns is to teach your dog or cat how to play with these toys and have a few practice runs with the monitor as well. That way, they will know how to keep themselves occupied and quiet when it is real.
Whoever said full-time RVing was exclusive to human beings? Most RVs are surprisingly pet friendly, but a few stand out even more. Especially when you throw in pet-specific features, like leash latches and bunks, that make great pet beds.
If you’re a cat person, dog lover, or even if you like those goats that freeze up and fall over when there’s a loud noise, becoming a full-time RVer doesn’t mean you have to give up your four-legged best friend. The fifth wheels on this list are great for full-timers with pets.
“Most RVs are surprisingly pet friendly, but a few stand out even more.”
The Grand Design
Solitude 345GK lets you take your work on the road thanks to a full-size desk in the rear. Now you can work while the dog chases its tail on the king-size bed, which is big enough to share if you don’t mind your cats or dogs getting on the bed.
If you’re kennel training, the lightweight, freestanding dinette is easy enough to remove for kennel space. The pantry is more than large enough to accommodate dog and cat food without eating up all the remaining space for dry goods and spices.
The residential fridge is a big plus if you prefer natural and organic foods for your animals. The 345GK is great for toy and medium dogs but also big enough for large dog lovers.
“Now you can work while the dog chases its tail on the king-size bed”
025
TOWABLE TRAILERS
Grand Design Solitude 345GK SPECS
• UVW: 13,320 lbs
• GVWR: 16,800 lbs
• CCC: 3,480 lbs
• TONGUE WT: 2,604 lbs
• LENGTH: 37’ 2”
• SLEEP: 4
BEST FEATURES
• 1: Nice office-type desk area
• 2: King Size bed option
• 3: Spacious floor plan w/kitchen island
• 4: Free-standing dinette is easily moveable
You’ll need a ¾-ton to haul this fifth wheel around, but on the bright side, that just means more room for pets.
Brinkley RV is a veteranowned brand, and the Model Z fifth-wheel has a lot of innovations to offer. It starts with ductless
flooring, which resists dust, debris, and all that dog and cat hair.
The Model Z 3100 includes a pull-out pet dish conveniently mounted under the island. The expansive and excellent storage options (especially the multipurpose ottoman) offer
plenty of space for dog and cat toys.
The floating table is a nice addition, with plenty of space underneath for a small kennel or a place for your dog or cat to sit. Of course, underneath the kitchen table is where they want to be during supper time.
BRINKLEY MODEL Z 3100
• UVW: 11,923 lbs
• GVWR: 14,495 lbs
• CCC: 2,572 lbs
• TONGUE WT: 2,142 lbs
• LENGTH: 34’ 11”
• SLEEP: 4
• 1: Pull-out pet dishes
• 2: Ductless flooring
• 3: Child/Pet Defender
• 4: Extra storage options
Just because you’re RVing doesn’t mean you can’t have a smart home on the go. What does a smart home have to do with pets? Well, a lot. The Arctic Wolf 321BH’s smart control panel makes running a smart home much easier, especially if you have pets.
You can add automated pet feeders with cameras (see our RV Gear article to learn more about pet cameras), self-cleaning litter boxes, motion sensor cameras, and smart toys. The pantry offers plenty of space for pet food and other needs.
The motion sensor lights will finally keep you from tripping over Shadow, your black labrador when you need to use the bathroom at night.
The leash latch secures your dog to the RV, allowing him or her plenty of freedom to move about outside. Even if you have a large dog (like a Newfie or a Mastiff), it's not likely to haul your entire camper along for the ride if they spot a squirrel.
029
TOWABLE TRAILERS
SPECS
• UVW: 9,288 lbs
• GVWR: 11,815 lbs
• CCC: 2,527 lbs
• TONGUE WT: 1,615 lbs
• LENGTH: 37’ 1”
• SLEEP: 10
BEST FEATURES
• 1: Leash Latch
• 2: Smart Control Panel
• 3: Extra large pantry
FOREST RIVER
CHEROKEE ARCTIC WOLF 321BH
• 4: Motion-activated bathroom lighting
Toy haulers make for excellent pet homes because of all that extra, wide-open space. The Keystone Carbon 398 Toy Hauler has a full bath in the garage that includes a tub shower. This feature lets you bathe your pets away from the living space.
The vinyl flooring is pet friendly, and the USB charging ports are located away from pet traffic areas. The WiFi prep is the perfect startup for a lot of pet-friendly, smart home features as well. This massive garage has plenty of potential as a prep area if you’re into pet show competitions, such as AKC events.
The dual-opposing sofas in the toy hauler area fold up against the side walls, giving you plenty of grooming and prep space. They also fold down to form two queen beds with two additional beds that lower down from the ceiling.
KEYSTONE CARBON
FIFTH WHEEL 398
SPECS
• UVW: 14,300 lbs
• GVWR: 19,000 lbs
• CCC: 4,700 lbs
• TONGUE WT: 3,780 lbs
• LENGTH: 43’ 11”
• SLEEP: 11
• 1: Conveniently located garage bathtub
• 2: Vinyl flooring
• 3: 4G LTE and WiFi prep
• 4: USB bed outlets conveniently located
There are too many reasons to list why RVing with pets is a good idea. For some, it’s the best way to prepare their champion for the judges. But for most, having that faithful companion makes
the adventure that much more special.
Pets experience the world differently. When you get that rare moment where you see the world through their eyes, it can make your RV vacation that much more special.
Pet lovers identify with each other, so finding friends at new campgrounds becomes that much easier. The best part is that they remind you to stop momentarily and enjoy your surroundings. Even if it requires a poop bag.
Harvest Hosts is an RV membership program that allows self-contained travelers to overnight at unique locations around the country including farms, wineries, museums, breweries, and more! With 4683+ host locations inside of our everexpanding network, there’s an amazing experience waiting for everyone.
BY RVCM STAFF
FIRST RV: 2019
Winnebago Navion 24D
CURRENT RV: 2023
Winnebago Vista NPF
STARTED RVING: 2018
PETS: Piper, Ella
(Puggles) & Scout
(Mexico Rescue Dog)
ORIGIN: Richmond, VA & Cincinnati, OH
DOMICILE: Miami, FL
They say a relationship can be like a rollercoaster with ups and downs. But how many couples can say they met on a rollercoaster? Howard and Katelyn
Newstate are one of those couples that can raise their hand. Both used to work for different departments of the same amusement park company and sat beside
That initial friendship became one of those relationships for the ages (at least, that’s what the “matchmaker” friends and relatives would say). What those others didn’t expect was Howard and Katelyn selling everything to become full-time RVers.
Whether traveling abroad or in North America in their Winnebago, Howard and Katelyn have spent
their time together exploring the world. Even during the COVID-19 Pandemic, they made the most of the experience of having to hunker down on an island in Mexico. Once the world opened back up, they added a rescue dog from Mexico to their pack.
Katelyn’s health challenges required them to turn down the initial invitation to compete in the RV Unplugged Competition. Yet destiny called due to another couple having to drop out and a chance meeting with Team Captains Phil and Stacy from Today is Someday.
This second opportunity was not only the medicine Katelyn needed, but it also turned out that the Newstate Nomads became one of the two finalists in the competition.
Mike and Susan spent some time talking with Howard and Katelyn gained some insight into who the Newstate Nomads are and their RV adventures.
WHY DID YOU START “NEWSTATVE NOMADS,” AND WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A YOUTUBER?
We’ve been on the road as full-time RVers since 2018 but began our Newstate Nomads channel at the most interesting time to start sharing travel videos
on YouTube in February 2020.
We had just entered Mexico, where we planned to spend the next 12 months exploring by RV. Faced with the COVID-19 lockdown, we quarantined in an RV park on a beautiful island in Campeche State (near the Yucatan Peninsula) for three months. Luckily,
we had built up several weeks' worth of videos exploring Mexico before we had to stop traveling. People stuck at home discovered our brandnew channel while planning their own travels to destinations around the world. But they stay with our YouTube Site for the stories from people who make the places we visit
so special.
Our favorite thing about being YouTubers (which is still a bit surreal for us) is inspiring millions of like-minded travelers and explorers each year to get off the beaten path, stop into a great small business, and try living like a local. That’s what makes it all worth it!
HOW HAS FULL-TIME RVING CHANGED YOU AND YOUR PERSPECTIVE OF THE WORLD?
We’ve always been passionate about traveling. Whether by RV or exploring internationally, we love trying new foods, meeting people, and learning about their backgrounds or cultures.
There are several aspects of RVing and travel, in general, that force you outside of your comfort zone, and it’s in those moments that you grow and evolve.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE RV LIFESTYLE?
Howard planted the seed about a year before we made it our reality. It
had always been this ‘cool idea’ that maybe we could make happen further down the road. Katelyn had a corporate job and wasn’t sure how to make remote work possible.
The stars aligned in 2018 when we were no longer tied to one location and could work from anywhere we wanted! We got out of our lease
in Miami Beach, FL, and promptly looked at hundreds of RVs before finding our perfect-for-us 2019 Winnebago Navion 24D.
We packed all our belongings into storage a month later and hit the road. We committed to one year in case we didn’t love life on the road. We’re almost 5 years in with no signs of stopping!
After logging over 80,000 miles in our Navion, not many places in North America are left! We’ve traveled to Alaska twice by RV, all across Canada, Mexico, and most of the US. So we’ve covered a ton of ground! We have a few states in the Northeast left to explore,
as well as North Dakota and Michigan!
CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN ON YOUR NEW NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION EDITION WINNEBAGO VISTA! WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO STEP UP FROM A SMALL CLASS C TO A CLASS A?
This year, we’re traveling in a Limited Edition
Winnebago Vista National
Park Foundation Class A in partnership with Winnebago for a unique tour. We still own our Class C Navion and are temporarily trying out the Class A RV Life while we visit 51 National Parks in 52 Weeks!
This special series not only helps our viewers plan their own trips to our amazing parks, but we’re also diving deeper into what makes them so special. Also, we’ll share some of the incredible work that Park Rangers, research teams, and their philanthropic partners are doing.
Overall, our pups are loving the extra room that the Class A provides!
Scout especially loves the big windows, and the puggles (Piper & Ella) enjoy all the extra napping spots.
It was a little challenging because right before we were scheduled to move into the Class A, Ella
suddenly went blind. She has a rare, irreversible condition called SARDS (Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome), which certainly presented a few challenges.
We had to work with her to ‘map out’ the new floor plan of the RV, but she caught on pretty quickly. We also found a set of steps that fit perfectly between our bed and the wall so that she could climb up and down on her
“Scout especially loves the big windows, and the puggles (Piper & Ella) enjoy all the extra napping spots.”
YOUR GOAL IS TO VISIT 51 US NATIONAL PARKS IN 52 WEEKS IN 2023. WITH RESERVATIONS AT A PREMIUM AND THE PARKS BEING SO SPREAD OUT, PLEASE TAKE US THROUGH YOUR PLANNING PROCESS.
Whew! This has definitely been a process. The number one factor in planning a route like this is to consider the weather. Certain National Parks only operate during select months of the year or are not ideal to visit in certain seasons.
Take Death Valley, for
example. Most people wouldn’t want to RV there in July. We began our route in Florida before heading west. The other big challenge has been the severe weather that much of California has been dealing with this year. We’ve rearranged our schedule a few times because of snow and heavy rains out west.
With our National Parks more popular than ever, early campground booking is essential. Typically most campgrounds inside National Parks release their sites for booking on Recreation.gov six months in advance. We have many calendar reminders set, so we’re ready to book ASAP when the six-month window opens. Some parks, like Yosemite, book up entirely in MINUTES!
“With our National Parks more popular than ever, early campground booking is essential.”
Another factor we considered when mapping out our route is the size of each park and the activities offered. Some parks, like Gateway Arch NP in St. Louis, don’t require multiple days to see it all, while we budgeted more time for larger parks like Yosemite or Glacier. As of now, we’re on track to finish all 51 National Parks in the lower 48 ahead of schedule! Fingers crossed, the weather will be on our side.
Europe! We still have a few more things we want to see and do here in North America, but our next big goal is to RV across Europe. We've taken several international trips by plane to Italy, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Ukraine, France, Spain, Croatia, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
We love the food, people, culture, history, and would love to spend an
extended amount of time exploring more amazing places there at a slower pace. We’ve done the initial planning and research.
The most challenging part is getting all three dogs across the pond! It’s doable and certainly something we’re very excited about in the near future!
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO PARTICIPATE IN RV UNPLUGGED?
It was a bit serendipitous.
When we were first invited to participate, Katelyn was going through some major health issues, and the opportunity sort of slipped through the cracks.
A few months later, we ran into Phil and Stacy (our wonderful coaches) at a campground in Colorado. They mentioned there might be an opening if we could be in Texas a few weeks later. We said, “Absolutely! We’d make it work!”
Sure enough, someone
else had to drop out, opening a spot for us! At that point, we still weren’t 100% sure what we had signed up for, but we’re usually up for anything! And we trusted Phil and Stacy, haha!
HOW DID THE RV UNPLUGGED EXPERIENCE BENEFIT YOU THE MOST, WITHOUT ANY MENTION OF “BEARD BUCKS” OR “BENJAMINS?”
100%, without a doubt, the friendships we formed. Not only within our Blue Team but everyone on the cast and
052 RV CAMPING MAG
crew. They did a good job of keeping the other cast members a secret until we all showed up.
Most of us didn’t know each other, and we all walked away feeling like one big family. We all have a group chat where we text almost daily. Several of us met up and traveled together after the show. Another benefit was being pushed outside of our comfort zones.
RV life and traveling fulltime require flexibility
and work through challenges and problems.
RV Unplugged certainly delivered in that aspect! We are so thankful for the experience and very glad we did it!
You can follow us on our YouTube channel, Instagram, and Facebook pages. Our webpage also has great posts about
our RV and international adventures. to the MAY 2023
BY RVCM STAFF
As one of the two finalists in the NRVTA’s “RV Unplugged” Reality Show, Aaron and Chris from Irene Iron Travels on the Red Team have had a long journey to get where they are today.
At the peak of their careers, Aaron and Chris gave up their endless jog on the 9-to-5 treadmill to pursue the true “workout program” they wanted. It all started with a movie on Netflix.
Travel:
FIRST RV: 2014 Airstream Interstate Class B
CURRENT RV: 2022 Outdoors RV 22FQS
Titanium
STARTED RVING: January 2019
CHILDREN: Louie (Basenji Dog)
ORIGIN: Minneapolis, MN
Aaron and Chris focus their videos, websites, and other social media on healthy living while traveling. Not only will you find videos about the RV Lifestyle, but you’ll also see ideas about healthy eating, exercise, and other ways to keep fit while on the road.
Mike and Susan of RV Camping Magazine spoke with Aaron and Chris offcamera to learn more about the Irene Iron team.
WHY DID YOU START “IRENE IRON TRAVELS,” AND WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING A YOUTUBER?
Aaron: Our favorite thing about being YouTubers is sharing this amazing lifestyle with people and inspiring others to get out there and make their dreams a reality.
It took us about six months of full-time RVing before we worked up the nerve to put ourselves out there. The original plan was to use the channel for our online fitness and nutrition coaching business.
We decided to start filming our adventures in downtown New York City. We figured no one would believe we were traveling and sleeping in our van in NYC or Boston. After the first year, we had about 5,000 subscribers. The next summer, we hit over one million views. We’re on track to achieve 50,000 subscribers this year and hit 10 million views.
Chris: RVing has changed our lives so much in so many ways. The first and most obvious way is that it freed us from the “Rat Race” and “Keeping up with the Jones.”
We’re incredibly grateful to be able to wake up and spend every day together, from start to finish. The RV lifestyle lets us share special moments and experience new places every day, not just a few times on vacation. We traveled more in the past 4 ½ years than many do in a lifetime.
Contrary to popular belief, full-time RV life isn’t a year-round vacation. The first few months of Van Life pushed us out of our comfort zones with the realities of it: sourcing drinking water, electricity to power lights, and stressing out about a full toilet.
Aaron and I also missed the people in our residential life. We missed family events, seeing friends, and even those familiar faces within our old communities. But you do meet so many other like-minded RVers on the road. The bonds are formed quicker and sometimes stronger on the road than in a traditional home setting.
Chris: We married in 2013 and were living “The Traditional American Dream.” We had a big house, nice things, big paying careers, three cars; you name it. While we were grateful for what we had built together, the grind and stress wore
on us over the years. It got to the point where we looked at each other and asked, “What are we doing all this for?”
After selling our home in 2014, we downsized quite a bit. We went from a 3,000 sq. ft. home on two acres to a 900 sq. ft. apartment. We didn’t know it yet, but we were becoming minimalists as we moved apartments each year for five years.
We knew we didn’t want to work our corporate careers for another 30-odd years
until retirement. So we started saving and daydreaming. We’d enjoy a bottle of wine every Friday night and review our budget. For several years we were debt free and saved 75% of our income, but we never really agreed on our ultimate goal.
Then one Friday, Aaron watched “Expedition Happiness” on Netflix. It’s a documentary about a German couple who renovated a school bus and traveled around North America.
We didn’t even know this was possible, but they looked like they were having the time of their lives, and we were mesmerized. Aaron looked at me and asked if I would do it. My eyes got big and bright, and it was a hard “YES!”.
At the time (May 2017), we had just signed an apartment lease, so we used the time for extra savings, research, and preparation for our exit from normal society. It was our little secret for 18 months.
Right away, we knew we wanted to do the Van Life. We didn’t even consider any other types of RVs. We wanted it to be easy, fastpaced, small, and let’s face it, nothing’s sexier than van life, right?
Watching people’s reactions when we told family and friends what we were about to do was fun. Some were envious and excited, while others thought we were straight-up nuts.
We hit the road in
January 2019 and realized that this was what we truly dreamed of and worked our butts off for during our first adventure across the East Coast.
Aaron: Irene is Chris’s middle name (Christine Irene). It’s also her grandmother’s name and her Great Grandmother’s middle name. When we were naming our new
business Irene Iron Fitness, Chris wanted to honor her family name. It was also an homage to strong women like Rosie the Riveter. So having a feminine spin on the business name was important to her.
While it makes people wonder, “Who’s Irene?”
it’s an excellent icebreaker. Naturally, Chris gets called ‘Irene’ quite often. But she doesn’t mind. Once, someone called Aaron ‘Mr. Irene,’ which Chris
still laughs about today!
Chris: In 2014, I fell in love with strength training when I purchased my first online dumbbell coaching program. It was a onetime purchase program that used classic bodybuilding movements I could use in our apartment.
Once we started our apartment-style city living, we’d focus on ourselves. Our nights and weekends were dedicated to decompressing, connecting with nature, and spending time together.
We started working out together at a nearby gym during the week. On weekends, we ran and biked outside or around Bde Maka Ska (a lake in Uptown Minneapolis). This became our outlet and hobby during our corporate years as the stress rose at work.
In 2016 I looked into hiring a personal trainer. Seeing how expensive they were, I thought, “I’d rather invest in myself for that type of money.” So I enrolled in the NASM-Certified Personal Trainer course and created my own life programs.
We needed to work on the road and wanted to start our own business. Online coaching was a natural decision for us since it was our hobby, passion, and I already had my certification.
My approach to coaching is very compassionate. I am very muscle-centric and strength-trainingfocused. Strength training and having healthy skeletal muscle is the key to longevity and minimizing the disabilities of aging.
I focus on nutrient-dense whole foods to make you feel your best and
“Becoming a health coach was the best decision I ever made.”
improve your relationship with food. It’s rewarding that we can positively impact our clients’ lives. Becoming a health coach was the best decision I ever made.
IRENE IRON FITNESSHEALTHY RV LIVING ONLINE
WEBSITE
YOUTUBE
MAKING THE JUMP FROM VAN LIFE TO THE TRAVEL TRAILER LIFESTYLE IS A BIG DECISION. WHAT
Aaron: I think it was a pretty simple decision for us. We loved the van but needed more space to continue our RV life. After 2 ½ years of living in 90 sq.ft., our working and full-time living needs required an upgrade.
We didn’t want to go too big because we love the convenience of a small RV and don’t like to plan too far ahead. We chose a 26-foot travel trailer from Outdoors RV with one slide. It’s small enough to keep to our convenience goals but was a huge space upgrade compared to the van.
This was during the height of the RV
shortage, so we had to wait 5 months for our trailer to be built after selling the van.
Aaron: We can sum it up in two words: No Regrets. We don’t want to come to the end of this crazy journey called life and have many regrets. This would have been one of those regrets because it would have been so easy to pass it up.
We knew it would challenge us in ways that we just couldn’t challenge ourselves. This was all about putting ourselves out there and putting ourselves in an uncomfortable situation. Remember, if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.
Chris: We’re extremely routine-oriented people, and we knew the next 16
“Remember, if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.”
days would push us out of our comfort zone. So having no control over our schedule or idea of who we were competing against was the scariest part. But we’re big believers in doing things that break us from complacency. Not knowing what the series was about, RV Unplugged certainly did that for us! It was one of our most memorable experiences since living on the road as RVers. We made great friends on both teams and the Production Crew. It tested us mentally, physically, and socially. The best part was walking away with such
incredible friendships.
Chris: If you want to join us in our RV journeys as we travel around, check out Irene Iron Travels on YouTube. We share our RV lifestyle, reviews, and travels as we live this awesome lifestyle. Also, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
For those looking to optimize their health and prevent the disabilities of aging, check out our coaching business, Irene Iron Fitness, and our new website for RVers, Healthy RV Living. Follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Active campers would be remiss not to consider the versatility and just plain awesomeness of a motorhome toy hauler. Even if you have nothing more than a single dirt bike, the things you can do with that extra garage space change the paradigm and everything you once thought about camping.
It's no wonder that toy haulers of every stripe are showing interest. Of course, not everyone needs one, but certain aspects of life on the road are perfectly suited for a portable garage, especially when your pet is along for the ride. Not to mention the extra space.
Once you park the motorhome, it's not like your toys stay in the garage, eating up valuable interior real estate. Clear out the toys, and even larger dogs will go wild over all of the extra space.
A toy hauler probably doesn’t make much sense for the rare camper. But, for the camping and outdoor enthusiast, there’s simply no other way to go.
With a Class A or C toy hauler, you can bring your toys and pets along while never worrying about a claustrophobic environment.
Plus, if you have a large family, those garage spaces turn into large bedrooms, lounges, dining rooms, entertainment areas, prep rooms for dog shows, and even a grill-out spot with a drop-down patio deck/ garage door conversion. These motorhomes have something to offer every intrepid explorer,
including the four-legged variety.
Thor’s Outlaw 29T often gets thrown in the mix with the 29J floor plan. There are differences worth noting, however, even though both offer some fantastic features in their own right. The Outlaw 29T eschews the drop-down, garagearea bunks in favor of increased headspace.
That’s just the beginning of Thor’s focus on maximizing space with
the 29T. For instance, the sofa behind the driver’s side converts into a Murphy bed, so you’ll have something to fight the dog over when it's time to hit the rack.
Instead, Thor focused on “options” in the garage section. This includes dual opposing rail mounts. If you’re into breed competition events, the garage space in an Outlaw 29T is fantastic for prep.
CLASS C 29T
THOR OUTLAW• LENGTH: 31. 2 ft.
• ENGINE: Ford 7.3L V8 Triton Gas
• CHASSIS: Ford E-450
• GVWR: 14,500 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 8,000 lbs.
• SLEEP: 4
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Cab-over child safety net
• 2: Dual-opposing rail track mounts
• 3: Tankless hot water heater with Showermiser
• 4: Free1 year Road Pass Pro subscription
The Renegade Classic 2509GS is a specialorder masterpiece, and the craftsman is you. The customization options are more numerous to count. As you can see in the Classic 2509GS specs, the length ranges between 37’ and 45’, and you even have a choice of multiple chassis.
Renegade also knows how to integrate modern technology and traditional home decor into a stylish design. The counters seem to float on LED lights, with pulsing, multicolored hues outlining the counter space. There are house and USB plugs everywhere, making it a portable tech lover’s dream.
With the huge amount of freedom afforded prospective Renegade Classic 2509GS owners, you can optimize it for petfriendly travel, even if you have a larger family size, including the dog, traveling with you.
RENEGADE CLASSIC 2509GS SUPER C
• LENGTH: 45 ft.
• ENGINE: Cummins X15, Detroit Diesel DD16, or Volvo D13
• CHASSIS: Freightliner, Peterbilt, or Volvo
• GVWR: 60,000 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 30,000 lbs
• SLEEP: 4-8
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Special order customization options
• 2: Impressive LED cabinet lighting
• 3: Beautiful hardwood finish
• 4: Garage fits most SUVs
Thor left the door wide open in terms of versatility choices in the Outlaw 29T, and they’ve done something similar here—only in an entirely different way. The toy hauler garage space is built for converting into a number of choices.
Also, like the 29T, the Outlaw 38KB Class A offers enough options in the garage space to accommodate you and your pet in a number of ways. Whether it's a play and training area for your pet, a dining room, or an entertainment center for a late-night movie, it's entirely up to you.
Or, you can convert the entire thing into party central, complete with a drop-down patio deck and enough space for a large grill. The possibilities are endless.
THOR OUTLAW
CLASS A 38KB
• LENGTH: 39.10 ft.
• ENGINE: Ford 7.3L V8 Triton Gas
• CHASSIS: Ford F-53
• GVWR: 26,000 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 8,000 lbs.
• SLEEP: 8
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Huge storage loft
• 2: Multipurpose garage
• 3: Garage door patio conversion
• 4: Dual exterior entrance
Newmar listens to their customers, and that propensity for taking their cues from their motorhome owners resulted in the Newmar Canyon Star 3957. This brand creates a separate master bedroom with a queen size bed in this Class A toy hauler.
They even managed to fit in a full-length pantry, so you’ll have extra room for dog food and treats for your pup. From the Moab decor to the extensive counter space, Newmar didn’t skimp on the luxurious appeal.
Even the radius shower is spacey, with plenty of headroom and a skylight. Newmar knows its business and how to manufacture a motorhome based solely on customer demand. Oh, and it hauls all your favorite toys too.
• LENGTH: 39.9 ft.
• ENGINE: Cummins
6.7L I6 Front Diesel
• CHASSIS: Freightliner XC Series
• GVWR: 32,000 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 6,000 lbs.
• SLEEP: 10
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Truma tankless water heater
• 2: Norcold 10 cf. refrigerator
• 3: Satellite and solar prep
• 4: Frameless doublepane windows
Hauling your toys is just a small benefit in a much larger scheme. Toy haulers offer immense versatility. The garage space only holds your toys for travel, after all.
Once you arrive, your imagination is the only limitation.
If you’re a dog owner or own multiple pets, toy haulers just make more sense. They offer a ton of space in a concentrated area, while the customization options are often extensive. That’s the kind of optimization pet
owners can fall in love with, whether you have a big lab or a cat.
One of the best parts of a motorhome toy hauler is using the garage hatch as a patio. With the patio railing in place, you and your pets can enjoy the open-air leash-free while cooking out, socializing with friends, or enjoying the scenery.
Lightweight, compact, and maneuverable the XP Lite makes traveling easier and efficient. It weighs only 46lbs making this one of the lightest eBikes on the market. Starting at only $799, ride anywhere, anytime at our most affordable price.
There’s no better feeling than taking a road trip with your four-legged friend. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, there is something special about traveling with your pup.
Luckily, many RV parks and campgrounds offer pet-friendly accommodations so you can bring your furry companion along for the adventure. Here are some of the best dogfriendly campgrounds.
LAKE GEORGE,
The Lake George RV Park, in a beautiful, wooded setting in the foothills of New York’s Adirondack Mountains, embraces your dog with open arms at Charlie’s Bark Park.
The 2-acre off-leash recreational area allows dogs to enjoy running and playing with other pets in an enclosed space. In addition, there’s an agility course and a giant water spray fire hydrant to cool off after all that hard work.
Small dogs can feel comfortable in a designated area for small and toy breeds. There’s an indoor dog wash station, a pet treats vending area, and a large artificial turf play zone.
Take a hike with your pooch at Shelving Rock Park, just minutes from the RV park, or enjoy a stroll along Lake George’s mile-long waterfront promenade.
The pet-friendly, fullhookup 400 RV sites come with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to modern showers and bathroom facilities.
There are also extensive activities for humans, including live entertainment, bonfires, and fishing. And remember to check out the trolley that takes you to nearby shopping, dining, and
sightseeing venues.
Lake George RV Park is so dog-friendly that it won the first RVshare “Campies” Campers Choice Award for the Best Pet-Friendly Campground for 2022—a testament they truly consider Fido a part of the family.
LAKE GEORGE RV PARKFort de Soto Park
Campground, on Mullet
Key off the coast of St. Petersburg, Florida, is a dogfriendly paradise for RVers. With several amenities and features designed to accommodate pets, it’s no wonder this campground is a popular destination for RVers with dogs.
One of the standout features of Fort de Soto Park Campground is its dog-friendly beach, where dogs can run on the sand and play in the water unleashed.
There are also two fenced-in dog parks where dogs can play and socialize and pet waste stations throughout the campground. Plus, there are plenty of trails and nature walks to explore.
Have you ever camped at an RV Park where dogs rule? 4 Paws Kingdom is the first and only dogdedicated campground in the US, located in the scenic North Carolina foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
4 Paws Dog Retreat caters only to canines and their adult human companions, with dog-friendly amenities that will make your stay a paws-itively enjoyable experience.
The swimming pond, agility course, and outdoor play areas are perfect for your dog to get exercise and have fun. There are also hiking trails to explore the beautiful scenery for fresh
air and quality pet time.
After a day full of activities, you can stop by the doggie bathhouse with a grooming station to pamper your puppy after a long day of playing.
If you want an extra dose of fun during your stay, be sure to check out 4 Paws Kingdom’s event calendar. There are birthday parties for dogs and humans, Also, they celebrate holidays with fun events like Easter egg hunts throughout the year.
These events are an excellent source of entertainment and allow you to find new companions, both two and four-legged.
4
PAWS KINGDOM CAMPGROUNDBoasting a stunning natural setting right on the shores of beautiful Lake Huron, Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping is an ideal RV destination that welcomes you and your beloved canine companion.
Drawing inspiration from the breathtaking wonders of the Mackinac Island State Park, the familyowned campground is surrounded by lush forestry and peaceful waterfront views. Spend your days exploring the park’s miles of wooded trails, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming along the shoreline.
Mackinaw Mill provides an area along the lake where they allow dogs on the beach, perfect for a sunset stroll. There’s also an area for large dogs to have an off-leash experience across from the park store.
Taking the water shuttle to Mackinac (pronounced Mackinaw) Island is a great way to take your leashed friend for an
adventure. The ferry ride offers stunning views of Lake Huron and its islands and the five-milelong Mackinac Bridge as the wind whips your furry friend’s ears.
As you explore the island, look for dog-friendly stickers plastered around shops and restaurants, even carriage rides that welcome your pet.
With its pet-friendly atmosphere, Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping is the perfect place to bring your puppy for a memorable getaway.
MACKINAC ISLAND STATE PARK
RVCM Editor’s Note: The Campground spells the word “Mackinaw,” and the Island uses “Mackinac.” While the Island is the correct spelling, the campground purposely spells the word how it’s pronounced.
No matter where you and your happy tail-wagger decide to explore, there’s no denying the joy of bringing a four-legged
buddy along on your RVing adventures.
Whether it’s a location with plenty of off-leash activities or easy access to trails and parks, ensuring you’re getting
the most from your camping experience for you and your pup is important. So grab those leashes and head out for a grand adventure with your furry companion.
BY THOMAS GODWIN
What good is the ultimate travel adventure without your canine best friend? Roughly 83 million Americans own cats or dogs, including many RV owners. No one wants to leave their four-legged companions at
home and go on an extended journey.
Camper vans are hugely popular, mostly because of their compact nature, fuel efficiency, and relative simplicity. The obvious problem is
“compact” and “dogs” don’t always mesh well. It's a catch-22—a preference for smaller, more compact RVs while owning a dog that needs space.
Chihuahua owners
probably don’t run into this issue very much, but Labrador and Coonhound owners always face this problem. So, what’s the solution? Fortunately, manufacturers understand this, and these 4 camper vans are the result.
The Coachmen Beyond 22RB is a small space with big features done right. The 22RB is designed to sleep two, and the opposing twin beds are an interesting choice unless you like to snuggle. A removable sliding lagun table creates a dining space between the two-bed spaces as well as another table behind the two swivel cab seats.
During the day, the twin beds become dual couches tailor-made for sleeping dogs. However, if you place your dog’s bed between the beds at night, there’s always the chance of stepping on your canine’s head, so beware of your own swinging feet. The rear doors access the wet bath, so scrubbing the stink from a toy to a large canine shouldn't be much trouble, space-wise anyway.
• LENGTH: 22.2 ft.
• ENGINE: Ford 3.5L V6 EcoBoost
• CHASSIS: Ford Transit T-350
• GVWR: 10,360 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 5,000 lbs
• SLEEP: 2
BEST FEATURES:
• Solid-surface, all-solidwood interior
• Removable shelving
• Dual-opposing twin beds
• Easily accessible wet bath
If you have a dog with hair any darker than the color white, go with the flintaesthetic interior rather than the champagne. Plus, it hides dirt better. Not that your little snooker-poodle is a dirty dog or anything.
With that being said, the Pleasure-Way Ontour 2.2 is an absolute “pleasure.” The additional floor space up front is an excellent spot for a doggie bed. The shower location is inconvenient for anything larger than a toy or small-sized dog unless you want to get really innovative.
If you want to slap some solar panels on the roof, the Ontour 2.2 is ready-made for boondocking or getting off the grid for a little while. That’s something your canine will certainly appreciate. Running space and new smells are what they live for, after all.
“The additional floor space up front is an excellent spot for a doggie bed.”
Pleasure-Way Ontour SPECS
• LENGTH: 21.10 ft.
• ENGINE: Ford 3.5L V6 EcoBoost
• CHASSIS: Ford Transit T-350
• GVWR: 10,360 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 2,240 lbs.
• SLEEP: 2
ONTOUR 2.2
BEST FEATURES:
• Side & rear door screens
• Corian countertops throughout
• GO Power solar package
• Privacy cab sun shades
Regency is a brand known for assembling luxury RVs with a touch of class, and the Ultra Brougham 25IB is a design that’s clearly focused on the luxury aesthetic. Now, you and your canine can relax on a double-diamond stitched, soft leather couch.
The cabinetry is extensive for the size of the 25IB, and it's all American Select hardwood. This Class B Plus has the needed extra storage space for dog food, treats, and toys. There’s enough sleeping space up front, and even though the shower is in the middle, you could get away with a medium to a large-sized
Since the queen bed is an “island bed,” there’s enough space to walk around on both sides. In other words, there’s plenty of room for your dog to wake you up with a slobbery tongue to the face each morning.
• LENGTH: 25.1 ft.
• ENGINE: Mercedes 2.0L I4 OM654 Turbo Diesel
Or 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo Diesel
• CHASSIS: Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500
• GVWR: 10,500 lbs.
• TOW CAPACITY: 6,000 lbs.
• SLEEP: 3
ULTRA BROUGHAM
25IB
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Island queen bed
• 2: Hardwood cabinetry
• 3: Split bath
• 4: Split 2nd Row seats with tables
SPECS
• LENGTH: 17.10’
• ENGINE: 3.6L V6 Gasoline
• CHASSIS: Ram ProMaster
• GVWR: 8,550 lbs
• TOW CAPACITY: 3,500 lbs
• SLEEP: 2
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Flexible sofa-dinette configuration
• 2: Murphy bed
• 3: Truma Climate Control System
• 4: MOLLE panel cargo gate
The Solis Pocket is too small to be a toy hauler, but it operates in the same way. If you’re big into dog shows, folding up the Murphy bed opens the rear garage-like space, which is perfect
for equipment and preshow grooming.
The Pocket also features a MOLLE gate panel that closes off the rear space. While this space has many uses, it makes for a decidedly unique pet crate. The Pocket lacks a
built-in bathroom but has a water station inside the right rear door. One of the features includes an outdoor shower hookup that taps into the water heater, so you can get your champion ready for their best performance.
One of the biggest concerns RVers have is having enough space inside for their dog or cat to enjoy the trip. Large breeds are best suited in travel trailers and motorhomes that are around 40 feet and have multiple slide-outs.
Yet, Georgie, the Golden Retriever, may not have a human that can afford a
full-size RV. So if you plan on taking your medium, large, or near horse-sized dog RVing in a camper van, frequent stops are a must.
Besides bathroom concerns, your canine companion will need to get some energy out by taking some walks. If you can find some dog parks off the highway, and your dog is friendly with others, that may be a great time for playing catch.
If you’re stopping for a
bite to eat or to get some shopping done, make sure you either have some windows partially open for a cross breeze or kick on the RV’s A/C. Campervans heat up quickly, and dogs can suffer heat stroke in as little as 30 minutes or less.
Your RV A/C runs on your house batteries and charges up while you’re driving, so gas isn’t an issue. More importantly, some water and A/C will keep your best pal safe.
BY BRIAN NEWMAN
Since January, all of the campground experts have been saying the same thing: while RV sales are down, campground reservations will have a higher occupancy than in 2022 based on higher advanced bookings and expectations. In other words, if you didn’t book your campsite up to 6 months in advance, you
may be spending the RV season boondocking.
You may get lucky and snag that last-minute cancellation, but your boss may not appreciate you requesting time off at the last minute. But if you live in Florida or Montana, the state governments
are working on legislation limiting out-of-state reservations so that instate residents can camp within their home state!
Floridians want to keep an eye on State Senate Bill SB 76 and House
Bill HB 109. Essentially, both of these bills would give in-state RVers and campers an extra month to reserve a campsite within the state parks. After that time, the dates become available to citizens of the other 49 states, Canadians, and anyone else who wants to camp in
a Florida State Park.
Senator Ed Hooper of Palm Harbor and House Representative Jennifer Canady added language to both of their bills that would prevent third-party companies from buying up these reservations and reselling them at higher prices.
Both bills have bi-partisan support, including the Senate Democratic Leader Lauren Book. In an
interview, Hooper stated that since the citizens of Florida pay for these state parks, they “should be able to secure a spot before they’re all scarfed up.”
Both bills state that Florida Residents will have 11 months to reserve RV campsites and other rentable features, while nonresidents can make their reservations 10 months in advance.
In order for Floridians to
take advantage of this instate booking advantage, they must either provide their valid Florida driver's license or the identification number from the license when making the reservation.
If passed, SB 76 and HB109 will take effect on January 1, 2024.
Senate Bill SB76 House Bill HB109
The State of Montana has similar intentions with its 55 State Parks. House Representative Steve Gunderson of Libby proposed HB 440, “An Act Creating Limits On The Number Of Reserved Campsites In State Parks, Recreation Areas, And Public Campgrounds.”
The bill proposes that up to 80% of all available campsites in state parks may be reserved. That way, in-state residents can enjoy the state parks as well.
It also states that if those that reserved the campsite don’t show up by 10 a.m. on the second day of their reservation, the state park can fill that campsite on a
first-come-first-serve basis.
For example, if you booked your reservation on a Friday, but you don’t show up until 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, don’t be surprised if your reserved campsite has been filled by someone else. Hopefully, the state park has another “noshow” campsite they can offer you. Otherwise, you
may be boondocking or calling around for another reservation in the area.
Representative Gunderson pointed out that since Glacier National Park is such a popular destination, those that can’t get a campground reservation within the National Park are spilling over into Montana’s State and local parks. Some even go so far as camping in Idaho in order to visit the Federal Park.
Booms of the past, the overabundance of RVers to available campsites goes all the way back to the 1920s.
When people were pulling their new tent campers with their Ford Model T automobiles, US National Parks like Yellowstone, Mackinac (decommissioned), Rock Creek (now a part of the National Capital Parks), Sequoia, and Yosemite all had overcrowding RV issues. The US Congress
had to pass laws to open additional park campground areas to solve these problems.
Today, finding more land to open new state parks is more difficult. Other states may follow the lead of Florida and Montana, so we always recommend booking your reservations early and giving yourself that extra time to travel to your destination campground for those “X-Factors” that arise on the road.
HB 440
Charging non-residents higher fees isn’t a new concept. States have given in-state residents better camping and entry fee pricing for decades. The gap between in-state and out-of-state fees has widened with these new proposed and passed laws as a reaction to RVing being at an all-time high.
While certain aspects of these laws are unique, from a wider scope, the concepts aren’t new. If you look at the various RV
