• The Best Way to Skirt Your RV
• Super-Fast, Portable Setup
• Extremely Durable, Military Grade
• More Affordable and No Drilling Holes in Your RV
• For Any Trailer, Fifth Wheel, or Coach
• Pays for Itself in Winter and Summer
• Free Shipping to US Lower 48
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This edition marks our 2nd Anniversary! We have an exciting announcement you’re going to want to check out in our Feature Section. RV Camping Magazine is merging with RV Today Magazine!
We’ll show you what you want to know about RV Today Magazine, the people behind it, and how your RV Camping Magazine subscription will transfer for FREE. They even offer a print version that can be mailed to you!
Do you have a 40 to 46-foot Class A or fifth wheel? Learn about the Best Campgrounds For Large RVs in our Are We There Yet? Department. Did you know that Yogi and Ranger Rick have campsites for you?
Head to our Drivable Motorhome Section to learn about Class C Motorhomes With Maximum Storage. We’ll show you the Best Ford E-Series and Transit chassis RVs with the most storage.
Our Towable Trailers Department features the Best Expandable RVs. Learn what softshell and hardshell pop-up campers offer. Also, maybe a hybrid trailer may fit your large family.
In our Van & Truck Camper Department,
we go through the Pros And Cons of Pre-Built, Builder, or Self-Build Camper Vans. We give you the details to help you choose the best camper van for you.
Now that Summer’s here, do you have the Best Beach Gear for your RV vacation? Our RV Gear Section gives you some great ideas, from collapsable sand buckets to a beach tent.
Todd from the NRVTA stops by to discuss Common RV Awning Issues. He shows us how to keep our awnings from ripping off, mold growth, and more.
General Motors solved the Towing Power vs. MPG Problem! Our News & Noteworthy Section shows you the blueprints GM submitted to the patent office and how it works. This EV tow dolly lets you use your 4-cylinder vehicle to pull a 40-foot fifth wheel or travel trailer!
We thank you for your subscription for the past 2 years, and know you’ll love RV Today Magazine!
JUNE 2023
VOL.3, ISSUE 6
EDITORIAL
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
ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING SALES Mike Scarpignato mike@rvblogger.com 443-699-6556
EDITORIAL mike@rvblogger.com
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BY THE NRVTA
We’ve heard a lot of complaints that RV manufacturers don’t build awnings how they used to make them. In the RV forums, you read people saying, “I have a 1978 such and such type RV. It’s equipped with a certain brand of awning, and it’s never ripped off.”
Nowadays, RVers report that awnings are ripping off pretty easily and want to know the problem. Here’s how to prevent your awning from ripping off and other tips.
An open awning can become a kite in high wind conditions. So you don’t want to have it open on windy days. The problem is that you may not know when the winds are coming or if a small gust could be the opening act for something more serious.
Previously, RV manufacturers installed awnings so tight against the outer wall of RVs that if the wind were strong enough, it would pull the whole wall off or damage the RV.
Today’s RV awnings act more like a “Crumple Zone” fail-safe, protecting against further damage. It’s cheaper to replace an awning instead of
repairing the RV itself.
That's why you should pay attention to the local weather reports. Also, assume the worst when in doubt and roll
your awning up. We also recommend closing your awning when you aren’t at your campsite.
We all know that awnings are ‘vicious.’ You’re looking down as you’re walking, and, WHAM, you knocked your head into the support beam for the umpteenth time. You don’t have to be tall to suffer from your RV awning’s sneak attack.
The best way to avoid this is to add LED awning lights to the
With an FMCA membership you gain access to hundreds of FMCA commercial members that can save you money on campground fees, RV services, accessories, and so much more!
One of the many reasons FMCA is the best of RV discount clubs is because of our network of Commercial Members. Our valued partnerships with leading RV industry businesses helps us provide FMCA members a network of connections. FMCA Connections include trusted retailers, campgrounds, service providers, fuel stations, and so much more. It’s nice to know you’re never far from a helping hand and a great deal.
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support beams. Not only do they add decoration to your outside living space, but these lights can also catch your eye before it’s too late, especially if you have hot coffee or tea in your hands.
Never put your awning up wet. Otherwise, you'll have mold on the material the next time you set up the awning. If you must pack up when the awning is still wet, open it back up when you get home and let it dry out.
If you do end up with mold on your awning,
you can use hydrogen peroxide and some water or buy some type of mold kill that you
can spray on the awning material. Don’t use any product that contains bleach because it will
“Today’s RV awnings act more like a “Crumple Zone” fail-safe, protecting against further damage.”
to the
Page
damage the fabric dye.
So, to sum up, RV awnings are designed to shade you from the sun. They can protect you during a light drizzle, but when a storm comes in with serious rain and wind, you want to roll up your awning to avoid the “kite effect.”
Avoid mold growth by not storing it wet. If you do find mold on your RV awning, stay away from anything containing bleach to protect the fabric color on your awning.
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!
Aday at the beach sounds like heaven, particularly if you’ve been stuck inside because of cold weather. Nature is calling, so head out to your next adventure at the nearest beach. Don’t mind the sand in the car and RV; it’s all good.
Before you go, check out the best beach gear we could find for young and old alike.
These handy collapsible sand buckets and shovels are great fun for the kids and easily stowable for your RV. You get three round sand buckets that collapse into a mere 1.6 inches. You also get three sand shovels. The bucket is made of high-grade silicone and plastic, so they can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Even if you don’t have children, you can use the buckets for fishing, as a dog water bowl, tool bucket, car wash bucket, or drink cooler for your picnic at the beach. The capacity is 2.5 liters.
Makes this a birthday gift, a party favor, or a fun and colorful catchall for your beach stuff.
This big mesh bag is a great addition to your beach gear. With a 40-liter capacity, made from 100% durable polyester, you can pack your towels, snorkeling gear, water shoes, sand toys, and more. Even those collapsible sand buckets will fit nicely.
The bag is lightweight and features a spacious main compartment as well as a small zip pocket. The side zipper pocket on the outside provides quick access to your beach essentials or a place for your phone, keys, and wallet. It even has a water bottle pouch so that you can stay hydrated. The mesh venting is great for fast drying and drainage. Choose a fun color to throw over your shoulder to contain all your beach stuff. The comfortable straps make it easy to carry, while the barrellock closure provides quick and easy access to your gear.
When you want protection from the sun and wind at the beach, the Master PopUp Beach Tent provides a large space with sun protection for all your outdoor activities. Let the little ones nap or change out of your wet
clothes in privacy. The mesh windows offer ventilation, and mesh pockets are available to store valuables.
The tent can fit two kids and two adults sitting inside. This beach tent assembles in seconds, so you’ll be ready to enjoy your day at the beach
quickly. The beach tent includes stakes and built-in sandbags, so it’s great on all surfaces. A carry bag makes it easy to transport. It’s also easy to move while setting up.
The Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker is a must-have for the beach. With beautiful Bose sound, this speaker is waterproof and rugged. Constructed of durable materials, this speaker has a rubberized silicone exterior that resists drops, dents, cracks,
scratches, and whatever you and the beach can throw at it. It’s an RVBlogger favorite!
This Bose speaker not only repels water but is also protected from extreme temperatures. The tear-resistant strap can be secured to your backpack, beach cooler, or bicycle. The longlasting lithium-ion battery can last up to 6 hours. It charges via a
Micro-USB cable which is included.
You can also take phone calls from the speaker or access Siri or Google Assistant from your phone through the speaker. The Bose Connect App automatically updates the speaker with the latest software, allowing you to customize settings and unlock product features.
There are beachfront campsites just about anywhere you find water from sea to shining sea. From the rocky coves of Oregon and California to the tropical beaches in Florida, there are many places to camp and explore. Many of these campgrounds are right on the water. Here are a couple of tips to consider.
Make sure you book well ahead; you aren’t the only one who wants these prime spots. Be prepared because you’ll get sand in your RV, clothes, hair, etc. It will be everywhere.
You also want to be ready for wet and windy conditions. A beautiful, calm day will cool off
at night, and the wind could be brutal. Make use of your outdoor RV shower and rinse off your shoes and other things. Then hang them up in the indoor shower using hooks, shelving, or other things. If you have an Airstream, that retractable clothing line could come in handy.
But what could be better than waking up to see the sunrise and enjoying the sound of the waves and the smell of the salt air? You might see some wildlife as well. Start a campfire in the sand and spend the evening looking up at the stars. You won’t regret your time near the water.
Have you considered an expandable camper? They are easy to tow and have as much room as many travel trailers. Check out some different types of expandable campers, and maybe it’ll fit the bill for your RV adventure goals.
An expandable camper is folding RV that’s small for easy towing, but has a lot of space in camp mode. Many have beds that pull out, placing
the living room space in the camper’s main shell. These units are lighter than a conventional travel trailer and are often more affordable.
An expandable camper is a great alternative to
a full-sized trailer. Most models range in dry weight between 2,800 and 5,000 pounds. They’re ideal to tow with smaller fuel-efficient vehicles. Here are some great examples.
The Time Out Trailer
Deluxe is a great option for a number of reasons. 1 person can set it up in about 3 minutes. The tent is handstitched and attaches around extendable polls, so there’s no complicated assembly. The tent fits into place around the bottom of the trailer frame. When you’re ready to leave, it easily collapses and straps down.
This lightweight camper trailer has a 20 pound tongue weight so that you can move it by hand. You can easily tow it behind a Honda Gold Wing or compact car like the Civic. It has 23 cubic feet of storage space when the tent is folded inside so that you can store 4 carry-on bags, 3 large luggage bags, an air mattress, a chair, and a table.
The trailer includes a queen air mattress, the wiring harness to
connect to a tow vehicle, a butcher block folding table, a folding chair, tinted window screens, and standard 12-inch wheels. It is 66 sq. ft. when set up.
DELUXE
SPECS
• LENGTH: 8’ 8”
• UVW: 385 lbs.
• GVWR: 835 lbs.
• CCC: 450 lbs.
• TONGUE WEIGHT: 20 lbs.
• SLEEP: 2
• COMES WITH A TABLE AND CHAIR
• THE BED HOLDS OVER 1,000 LBS.
• HAS AN OPTIONAL A/C STAND
• LARGE TIRES FOR HIGHWAY DRIVING
Experience your next offroad adventure in the Opus OP4. It has everything you need to head out to the wilderness in a small package. With a 3,100 pound dry weight and
4,200 pound GVWR, you can pull this with a midsize SUV or ¼ ton truck.
2023 models include a larger refrigerator, rackmounted shower and privacy tent. You’ll find a Dometic Coolcat AC and 10,000 BTU heat pump, OPUS Cinema System, upgraded LED lighting,
and 2 double beds with a king bed extension inside. The Opus air inflation system runs off the 12-volt electric air compressors, which are installed on the pop-up camper and connected to the control panel. Instead of using metal poles erected manually, it inflates in
under 5 minutes at the touch of a button. The triple-layer technology ensures extra durability and reliability. The air outdoor awning, which is optional on the OP4, expands living space and provides cover from sun or rain.
With 40 gallons of water
and 3-4 days of built-in battery life, you can get off the grid while still living in luxury. There are added options for lithium, solar, and dc-dc charging. To get you far beyond the road, the OP4 features an upgraded, all-terrain chassis with off-road 15inch tires and independent coil suspension.
SPECS
• LENGTH: 17’
• UVW: 3,100 lbs.
• GVWR: 4,200 lbs.
• CCC: 1,100 lbs.
• TONGUE WEIGHT: 400 lbs.
• SLEEP: 6
BEST FEATURES
• SOFT SHELL AIR INFLATION BEAMS
•OPUS CINEMA SYSTEM
•OUTDOOR KITCHEN
•OFF-ROAD & OFFGRID READY
While hard shell popup campers have a reputation for not being family-friendly, the Aliner Family is a different beast altogether. With nearly double the living space, 30% more storage room, taller countertops, larger beds, flush mount euro-style sink and stove, and the highest capacity chassis, it still weighs less than 2,300 pounds. The best part is that it can be towed by a variety of vehicles. This model is perfect for the whole family or a couple that wants more room.
With setup taking a few minutes, you will soon be ready to enjoy your camping experience. The awning is great, so you can cook in bad weather if you don’t want to use the microwave inside. The Aliner Family easily sleeps four adults and has a swivel cassette toilet. It’s lightweight, has a low profile, and can easily fit into most home garages. The Aliner Family will also fit in small, out-of-the-way
campsites. You can also take advantage of the optional off-road package.
ALINER FAMILY
ALiner Family
SPECS
• LENGTH: 18’
• UVW: 2,439 lbs.
• GVWR: 3,500 lbs.
• CCC: 1,061 lbs.
• TONGUE WEIGHT: 240 lbs.
• SLEEP: 6
BEST FEATURES
• CASSETTE TOILET
• A/C WITH HEAT PUMP
• 11 GALLON FRESH WATER TANK
• OUTDOOR SHOWER
233S WITHOUT GETTING WET! Check out the Goliath of expandable campers. The Flagstaff Shamrock 233S can sleep 10 people and weighs just over 5,000 pounds. The 233S floorplan has three
expandable bed sections, making into three residential queen beds, as well as a slide-out with a u-shaped dinette and a large flip-out sofa.
The beds hinge out from the inside (once you unlatch them from the outside), so you can even set it up in the
rain. Save the stabilizer jacks for later when the weather improves. Due to its weight you can only expand the slide out after the jacks are set due to its weight.
Some of its features include a quick recovery water heater, Maxx Air Ventilation fans and
covers, a 35,000 BTU furnace, 15,000 BTU ducted heater, night roller shades, keyed-alike locks, and a 200-watt roof solar panel with a 1,000-watt inverter. The kitchen has a 12v refrigerator, three burner stove, oven, microwave, and water filtration system.
So really, you’re getting a 10-sleeper travel trailer with plenty of interior space that has expandable sleeping spaces and a dinette on a slide-out.
SPECS
• LENGTH: 24’ 10”
• UVW: 5,111 lbs.
• GVWR: 6,652 lbs.
FLAGSTAFF
SHAMROCK 233S
• CCC: 1,541 lbs.
• TONGUE WEIGHT: 652 lbs.
• SLEEP: 9
BEST FEATURES
• FREESTANDING TABLE
• FULL KITCHEN WITH OVEN
• HEATED MATTRESSES
• 15,000 BTU A/C
These expandable camper models are awesome and are great for any
individual, couple, or family that wants to explore the outdoors. Our first camper was a popup tent trailer, and we couldn’t even conceive of some of the things these expandable campers have to offer.
You can even take these campers out in the spring or fall with plenty of climate control options, insulation, heated mattresses, and more features for early and late-season camping.
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.
This June 2023 edition of RV Camping Magazine marks our 2nd Anniversary! Last year, we traveled down “Memory Lane,” choosing a piece of advice from each of the RV Influencers we interviewed. This time we’re going to talk about our future.
Starting next month, RV Camping Magazine is joining up with RV Today magazine!
Starting in July, RV Camping Magazine subscribers will become RV Today subscribers. After 2 great years of bringing you the latest and greatest RV news and topics, our magazine has been purchased by one of the best RV periodicals in the business.
This merger wasn’t an easy decision for us. We
wanted to make sure that you, our readers, could expect the same high-quality reporting on the topics that matter. After many discussions with the publisher of RV Today, Demian Ross, and reading through many of his back issues, we discovered you'll be in great hands.
Demian and his team of staff and contributors are real RVers that seek out the stories that matter to all of us. His RV Today magazine covers the same topics in RV Camping Magazine and more. You’ll find that this magazine goes into great depth and shows you the best RVs and gear in amazing detail.
As they say in the RV World, ‘leave your campsite better than you found it.’ In this case, we feel confident we’re leaving our readers with the best magazine reporting possible.
“Starting in July, RV Camping Magazine subscribers will become RV Today subscribers.”
RV Today Magazine is just like RV Camping Magazine. It’s a publication written for RVers by RVers. The magazine’s publisher, Demian Ross, lives fulltime in his fifth wheel. You may be familiar with his first magazine, Rootless Living. In November 2021, he introduced the country to RV Today magazine.
When he started his fulltime journey, he would stop in at bookstores looking for the right RV magazine devoted to the RV lifestyle. Instead, he found periodicals that focused on specific RV classes, and their stories were more about the RV, not what to do with it or where to go.
On RV Today’s homepage, Demian and his team explain what the
magazine is all about:
“RV Today is for EVERY RV camper. Lose yourself in RVing, find yourself in the RV community in the great outdoors. Travelers, snowbirds, families, and solo RVers at every age and stage of life can make themselves right at home here with RV Today.”
For the past 2 years, RV Camping Magazine has been a digital magazine only. In order to maintain it as a free magazine to our readers, keeping it digital was the best way we could continue to offer our magazine without subscription costs.
Even though RV Camping Magazine is joining RV Today, you’ll receive the digital RV Today magazine without cost
if you’re an RV Camping Magazine subscriber.
The digital format of RV Today will be delivered to you via email. The other way to read the magazine digitally is to read it directly on the website. So whether you accidentally deleted the email or are looking for a back issue, you can always log in and read any issue you want. This website feature comes with the membership at no additional cost.
One of the most popular questions we at RV Camping Magazine get asked is if our magazine comes in a printed format. As we stated above, we decided to keep it digital only so that
you’re an RV Camping Magazine subscriber, the free subscription is only available on the digital version of RV Today.
If you want to access RV Camping Magazine's back issues, you’ll be able to do it through RV Today’s online website. If there’s that one favorite article that has a destination you want to go to, an RV you want to look at, or there was something you want to remind yourself about if you ever run into one of our featured RV Influencers, you’ll still have access to our back issues.
RV Today is published
“RV Today is for EVERY RV camper. Lose yourself in RVing, find yourself in the RV community in the great outdoors. Travelers, snowbirds, families, and solo RVers at every age and stage of life can make themselves right at home here with RV Today.”
every 45 days, not monthly. This means that there are 8 new editions per year, both digital and printed. This allows Demian and his team to put the magazine together in print form and provide many more articles in each issue.
You don’t need to do anything for the transition from RV
Camping Magazine to RV Today Magazine. Our team and the RV Today magazine team are handling that. There is 1 issue you may have to be aware of, though.
You’ll receive your first issue of RV Today on July 1st. Since the RV Today magazine will come from a different email address, you’ll want to find the email and add it to your address book. You know
how it goes sometimes, the email filter doesn’t know the good stuff from the spam.
For a sneak preview, head to RV Today Magazine’s website!
If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to the RV Today team. The ‘Contact Us’ button is clearly marked on their homepage. Before you contact them, check out their FAQ section, which you can access from the bottom of the page.
Many of the most common questions are already answered. Questions like:
• Trouble logging-in? Start here.
• How do I change my mailing address, manage my subscription or view my account status?
• How can I read the magazine online?
RV TODAY MAGAZINE
For those fans of our blog sites, RVBlogger.com, TravelTrailerPro.com, MotorhomeFAQs.com, and the RVBlogger YouTube Channel, we’re still hard at work bringing you the best articles and videos possible. You’ll also find us on our Facebook page,
and you can still join our private Facebook Group called ‘RV Camping For Newbies.’
We’d like to thank you again for your subscription to RV Camping Magazine. We wish you all great travels and know you’ll enjoy RV Today Magazine’s excellent stories!
Brian Newman
And the entire team at RV Camping Magazine
BY THOMAS GODWIN
Class C Motorhomes have never been known for storage capacity. For years, manufacturers have taken the Class A experience and miniaturized it into a compact and livable form. Storage options just weren’t in the cards.
Fortunately, things are beginning to change. As RV manufacturers
update new models, they’re using customer feedback. There’s clearly a renewed and growing focus on providing additional storage space in Class C RVs. It’s an excellent shift in focus, and some of the newer Class C’s are hitting showroom floors with more storage than ever before.
One of the most attractive features of Class C Motorhomes is the ease of driving. Though some of them are quite lengthy, the higher degree of
maneuverability is an attractive selling point. They also have excellent sleeping space and are better with gas mileage.
More storage space is a growing commodity as well. Class C’s have long been primary examples of making
sacrifices in one area to improve in another. Now, manufacturers are finding unique and innovative ways to improve storage capacity.
The Concord 321DS experienced a bit of a delay thanks to the pandemic. However, for RVers eagerly anticipating its release, the 321DS has arrived, and it was well worth the wait. Coachmen took a multi-pronged approach when it came to storage in the 321 DS.
Everything you expect from the Coachmen brand is here, along with huge passthrough storage options on the exterior and passthrough storage on the interior as well. From extending dinette tables to the awesome sidebar beverage system, everything is flanked by some sort of storage option.
COACHMEN CONCORD 321DS
• LENGTH: 32.75’
• ENGINE: 7.3L V8
• CHASSIS: Ford E450
• GVWR: 14,500 lbs
• TOW CAPACITY:
• 7,500 lbs
• SLEEP: 2
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Tankless water heating storage
• 2: Extra passthrough storage
• 3: 12v and USB power supply in the storage
• 4: Sidebar beverage system
The awesome rear storage garage is the highlight of this Class C motorhome. The garage is large enough to fit bikes without robbing the interior of too much space.
The pivoting dry/wet bath is a fantastic feature as well. The cassette toilet sits next to a lavatory wall that pivots around, sealing the toilet off from the shower. The rear bed is a WinnSleep Flex kit, converting from queen to two twins in a jiffy. Winnebago also included shirt-length closet storage spaces beneath each bed.
SPECS
• LENGTH: 23’
• ENGINE: 3.5L EcoBoost V6
• CHASSIS: Ford AWD Transit Chassis
• GVWR: 11,000 lbs
• TOW CAPACITY: 5,000 lbs
• SLEEP: 4
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Optional Pop-Top tent/FROLI Sleeping System
• 2: WinnSleep Flex Bed Conversion Kit
• 3: 54.6 cu. ft. passthrough garage/storage
• 4: Pivoting dry/wet bath
Interior and exterior storage space—there’s storage space everywhere on the Conquest 63111. If you look down, there’s hidden storage space beneath you under the floor. When you look back up, you’ll probably bump your head on the ceiling storage space around the entire interior.
Did we mention the storage space? Besides that, this Conquest Class C is also fully loaded. It includes an IRD Dual-Battery Charging System, a stainless steel appliance package, a 12 cu. ft. fridge, and enough room to sleep 9!
Of course, we can’t forget how the camp side bunk beds turn into a massive closet when the kids head off to their adult life.
• LENGTH: 31.9’
• ENGINE: 7.3L V8
• CHASSIS: Ford E450
• GVWR: 14,500 lbs
• TOW CAPACITY: 7,500 lbs
• SLEEP: 9
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Storage compartments everywhere
• 2: 12 cu. ft. fridge
• 3: Ton of sleeping options/spaces
• 4: Ford integrated Truck dash and radio
If storage is your thing, the Jayco Redhawk 26M has more than most, with a CCC of 2,283 lbs. Somehow, with all of the additional cargocarrying capability of the Redhawk, it still turns out to be one of the more spacious Class C motorhomes.
The interior height is 7’, and the bathroom is especially roomy in the back section of this Class C. It’s also a good choice for boondocking or going off the grid, with its Onan MicroQuiet Generator, a battery-sipping fridge, and an optional 190-watt solar package.
• LENGTH: 28.8’
• ENGINE: 7.3L V8
• CHASSIS: Ford E450
• GVWR: 14,500 lbs
• TOW CAPACITY: 7,500 lbs
• SLEEP: 6
BEST FEATURES:
• 1: Power-operated Murphy Bed
• 2: Sony Infotainment Center
• 3: MicroQuiet Generator
• 4: Extra large wardrobes with plenty of storage space
In most Class C RVs, storage space is small to moderate, with most of the storage options within the interior. However, if the models on this list are any indication, storage is a growing focus in the Class C market. One thing is for sure, if you need a lot of storage, you’ll get it all and then some with these four Class C Motorhomes.
ARE WE THERE YET?
BY RVCM STAFF
It’s a luxurious life on the road for those rolling in their grand motorhomes and fifth wheels. These top-notch campgrounds and resorts are pulling out all the stops to accommodate their every need.
From upgraded utilities to exclusive features just for the big rig crowd, these are the ultimate destinations for the recreational vehicle elite. So pack your bags and rev up those engines because these are the best campgrounds for big rigs and large RVs you don’t want to miss!
SAN DIEGO, CA
Ahh, Mission Bay RV Resort in San Diego, California. If you’re a large RV owner searching for spacious sites, this is the place for you. Its big-rig-friendly sites accommodate RVs up to 45 feet. The amenities include a refreshing pool, a hot tub, a sports court, and numerous activities. Each day promises a new fun-filled adventure.
But the big star at Mission Bay RV Resort is the stunning
from the beach, you’ll be able to enjoy all the beauty and relaxation of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to all the
attractions
San Diego
offers.
If you need more than that, you have full access to nearby Campland on the Bay, such as a fitness center for an intensive workout, bike rentals for an outdoor spin around town, and even a dog park for your furry friends.
Whether you’re looking to spend your days exploring the city or simply soaking up the sun by the pool, Mission Bay RV Resort has everything you need to make your vacation truly unforgettable.
Prepare to be dazzled by the ultimate luxury RV experience at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone RV Park in Luray, Virginia. Located in the tranquil Shenandoah Valley, this RV resort is an idyllic spot for those with large RVs seeking generous camping sites and superior amenities.
There’s plenty to explore just minutes from Luray Caverns and Shenandoah National Park. But you don’t have to leave your campsite to enjoy some of the best features available at Jellystone Park. From its splash pad and three swimming pools or its on-site mini golf and outdoor laser tag, there’s something for everyone.
When it’s time to relax, you’ll find plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the beauty of the valley. With its Red Carpet and Premium pull-thru sites, Jellystone Park has plenty of room for your big rig spread across 73 acres of picturesque land.
LURAY, VA
SHENANDOAH
NATIONAL PARK
YOGI BEAR’S JELLYSTONE PARK
Experience luxury like no other at Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground, the perfect playground for owners of large RVs. Here, travelers can revel in the beauty of Virgin, UT, while enjoying all the amenities expected from an upscale resort.
With spacious tree-lined sites, Zion River offers big rig owners the chance to experience a luxurious camping getaway. The campground features a heated swimming pool and spa. Stop by the convenience store, gift shop, or ice cream parlor during the spring and summer.
Daily activities include educational programs, wine and cheese gatherings, campfire n s’mores, and movie nights. There’s even a 14-passenger shuttle bus to nearby Zion National Park that operates seasonally.
Zion River Resort is a dream come true for RVers looking to get away in style. It’s a great base camp for big rigs and large RVs to explore the incredible beauty of Zion and surrounding parks.
Welcome, big rig owners, to the ultimate luxury RV experience at Bluewater Key RV Resort. With perfect yearround weather in the southernmost point in the United States, Bluewater is the ideal retreat for those looking to indulge in the finer things.
Upon arriving at Bluewater Key, a team of attentive staff is ready to assist with everything from parking to concierge services. And regarding parking, this RV resort has plenty of space for your big rig. Sites are 35 feet wide and 80 feet deep or larger. So there’s plenty of room to maneuver. But it’s not just the parking that separates
Bluewater Key. The amenities here are second to none. Swim off your private dock in crystal-clear water or soak up the sun in the temperature-controlled fresh-water pool. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s even a marina onsite, with boat rentals and fishing charters.
Unwind in your personal tiki hut or meander along the greenway that leads to other keys via the US1 bridges. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the resort for those wanting to stay connected.
But the real crown jewel of Bluewater Key RV Resort is its central location. You’ll be just a
short drive from all the top attractions in the Florida Keys, including the world-famous Key West. Get in a few rounds of golf at the nearby course. Explore the Shipwreck Museum or Ernest Hemingway’s House, and then head to Duval Street for an exciting night out that wraps up with a daily
Sunset Celebration.
More RV Parks and campgrounds understand the importance of
catering to big rigs and large RVs. From the northernmost point in Maine to the extreme southernmost point of Key West, Florida, you can find a variety of luxurious campgrounds and RV resorts with plenty
of room for your large motorhome or fifth wheel. So, the next time you plan a getaway, check out these fantastic places for the best campgrounds for big rigs and large RVs. Happy travels!
Shopping for or building your own camper van is an interesting crossroad to arrive at. On the one hand, there are some truly amazing prebuilt options out there, whether you go with one of the big-name brands or hire a camper van conversion professional.
Then there’s the idea of building one on your own—a difficult task but one that is by far the most creative. It offers a sense of pride and authenticity you can’t achieve any other way.
As the title implies, the three ways to get a camper van are by purchasing one from a dealer, converting your own truck or van, or
hiring someone to do the conversion for you. There are good reasons for any of the three choices. Unfortunately, there are also some drawbacks.
This choice presents you with its own dual option— buy brand new or snag a used one. This involves nothing more than going down to your local RV dealership and picking out the best option for yourself or for you and your family.
Whether you buy used or new, everything is already done for you. You have the entire package presented under one big bow. Okay, maybe not a bow. But, the point is, you don’t have to do any work.
With used Class B vans, you’ll often find (to your surprise) that most of them come with pretty low mileage. And since they were previously owned, they have a degree of homemade authenticity. Plus, the used ones have usually had all the kinks ironed out.
Buying used, you’re going in with a blindfold on, at least to a degree. If
there are pending issues, you will have to deal with them, adding to the overall cost. Buying new means you have no control over the creative process and will pay a premium (5 or 6-figure) price.
Plus, this option leaves you with very little in the way of choice. You might find yourself paying a high price for features you might not use.
Buying from a builder is a fairly popular choice. It's a great way to support small businesses nationwide, as many mom-and-pop businesses are wholly dedicated to van conversions.
PROS OF BUYING A CAMPER VAN FROM A BUILDER
Buying from a builder comes with a ton of variety and a more authentic sense of personality, indelibly stamped into each one. You will be able to have some input into the van build if you are willing to wait for the van conversion to be completed.
There are basic options, detailed options, and everything in between. Your choices are nearly limitless, and most of the things that come with these builder options are things that you’ll definitely use.
CONS OF BUYING A CAMPER VAN FROM A BUILDER
The builder’s sense of creative aesthetics may be way outside of what makes you happy. Everyone is different, and buying from a builder limits you to their sense of creativity rather than your own.
While converted vans have a much higher level of authenticity than a major brand, there may be things you don’t like and will never use within the construct. For instance, you may love the interior paint style and hate the cabinets.
Always research the various camper van builders through their websites and look at the various reviews of their customers. Each builder has their own signature style, so if you go this route, find the one that best fits what you’re looking for in a camper van.
“Buying from a builder is a fairly popular choice. It's a great way to support small businesses nationwide”
Last, there’s always the option of building the van to your specifications, assuming you have the necessary time, skills, and materials. Either way, this is a whole different animal from the other two options.
The reason it's so different is that you’ll be far more involved than the other two options. We’re talking down to the choice of toilet paper holders. It’ll all feel intensely more important to you.
Not to mention the level of self-pride in having developed or directed the entire thing from scratch. You can also save a lot of
“There’s always the option of building the van to your specifications, assuming you have the necessary time, skills, and materials.”
money this way because you can eliminate some of those things you know you don’t want or will never use. Every aspect is entirely up to you.
These kinds of conversions typically take more time, and they can get quite expensive. If some of the details you want to be worked into the project, they can be labor-intensive or require a skill level beyond what you have currently. Remember, in the construction business, time equals money.
Another issue you need to be aware of is insurance. Some who have built their own camper van have ended up rebuilding their van’s interior because it didn’t meet the requirements set by the Department of Transportation or insurance company standards. To avoid this, make sure you know what those requirements are before you start planning out your camper van’s design.
It really boils down to what you need and what you want. If this is some kind of off-grid project where you will ride off into the sunset with
your significant other, it could have a higher level of authenticity born of your own creative consciousness.
If you’re just looking for a weekend getaway, once every month or every other month, you might
consider buying a prebuilt camper van. What are you going to use it for? Where are you going? Is this a lifelong dream or a wild bit of randomness? These are factors you should strongly consider before making the leap.
BY BRIAN NEWMAN
Recently, General Motors submitted a patent that solves the towing power vs. fuel efficiency conundrum. The new tow dolly device is a game-changing mechanism that will allow a 1.2L Trailblazer to tow a fifth wheel or long travel trailer.
According to the blueprints and specs, the 4-wheeled dolly hitches up to your vehicle’s rear hitch. Your fifth wheel
attaches to the top of the dolly, or your travel trailer connects to the rear of the device.
It also has an AI system, like Ford’s F-150, that uses sensors to help
you back up, so you can easily hitch up. Once connected, it has some type of regenerative power device like an alternator. According to Motor Trend, the tow dolly can power itself, supply electricity
to your RV, and help keep your EV tow vehicle powered up during those long hauls.
wheel or travel trailer, the EV dolly will tow it for you. Your passenger vehicle guides it down the road.
Another great feature of the GM Tow Dolly is that it can help move your RV by hand. So if you need to position your towable trailer into a tight space,
you can use a hand control device to move your coach into that perfect spot. For those that have covered RV storage spaces or have other spacing issues, the tow dolly keeps the job small.
The important takeaway is that the GM Tow Dolly will have the torque to do the “heavy lifting” for you. Therefore, if you must have that 30-40 ft. fifth Motortrend Article
“The important takeaway is that the GM Tow Dolly will have the torque to do the “heavy lifting” for you.”
During your journey, if you’re one of the first people to get one of the GM Tow Dollies, more than likely, you’re going to be very popular. Everyone will want to see it and ask you every possible question about it.
More seriously, some campgrounds might not let
you store the tow dolly on your campsite. Generally, they’ll let you have your RV, a passenger vehicle, and maybe a tent structure like a screened-in room around the picnic table. So, you’ll have to park it in their RV storage area or guest parking area. GM will probably have some type of lock system on the tow dolly.
Then there’s the fuel motor vs. the electric motor issue. Let's hope GM figures this one out. Otherwise, your tow
vehicle could have a half tank of gas, but the EV tow dolly could need a “refill” at a charging station. This tow dolly is still a concept, so GM could be waiting until EV battery technology is better for long-distance driving before considering general production.
As we’ve stated above, GM sent the design to the patent office. There hasn’t been any news yet on a
prototype or an ETA for production. We’re pretty sure that when the time comes when GM is ready to produce this tow dolly, there will be a lot of fanfare and media exposure.
But here’s the real question; if you’re like this author, who’s a die-hard Ford fan, will you swallow your “principles and pride” to purchase this EV tow dolly from GM so you can use it with your Ford Escape to tow that 40 ft. travel trailer you’ve always wanted?
